Primary Education in Australia

The Primary Education in Australia runs for 7 to 8 years and commences at the preparatory or reception level where students enter into the national education system at the age of 4 or 5. The main focus of primary school is to develop essential skills like literacy, numeracy and to provide foundational knowledge to children to help them learn about the world around them.

Secondary/ Senior Secondary Education in Australia

Secondary school education runs for three or four years from year 7 to 10 or 8 to 10 and senior secondary school runs for two years, year 11 and 12 until the age of 16. It is compulsory to complete year 12 to receive a certificate. A standard curriculum is delivered and choices are limited for students during secondary school. However, in senior secondary school there are greater choices of subjects available to students where they can make their own choices and decide on subjects to match their strengths for possible tertiary study paths and future career. Students can work with teachers and counselors who can help them in making decisions.

Tertiary Education in Australia

After the period of compulsory education, student can continue with higher education that includes university education or even opt for vocational education and training (VET) which is known as Tertiary Education in Australia. International and domestic students are assessed the same way for university entrance and if you don’t meet the entry requirements, there are other alternatives like foundation studies or pathway programs.

What is the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF)?

It will be easier if you understand the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) that will help you become familiar with the range of study options available in Australia. AQF is a system that comprises of seventeen national qualifications in three sectors: Schools, Vocational Education and Training (TAFE and private providers) and Higher Education (mainly universities) that was designed to ensure that all qualifications titles across the country represent the same high standards of education.

It simply means that if you are studying an AQF qualification, you can be assured that you institution is authorized by the government and is nationally accredited. It allows flexibility as you can easily move from one level of study to the next, from one institution to another as long as you satisfy the student visa requirements.

Common Qualification type for international students and its AQF level are as follows:

Qualification Type
AQF Level
Diploma course    Level 5
Advanced diploma | Associate degrees    Level 6
Bachelor degree    Level 7
Bachelor honours degree | Vocational graduate certificate | diploma
Graduate certificate/ diploma

Level 8
Master Degree    Level 9
Doctoral degree    Level 10

English Language Courses (ELICOS)
ELICOS is an abbreviation of English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students offered to international students, whose first language is not English and want to improve their Academic English skills with full time study of English. Other commonly used acronyms for ELICOS are English as a Second Language (ESL) and English for Academic Purpose (EAP). International students often study ELICOS to meet the entry requirements for university education. It is important that all ELICOS providers are registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS).

Vocational Education and Training (VET)
Australia also offers Vocational Education and Training (VET) which usually requires two years of study and prepares students for work providing students with the opportunity to learn practical job skills. These courses are offered by Registered Training Organizations (RTOs) which includes TAFE institutes. There are currently 59 TAFE institutes that deliver VET training across Australia. It prepares students for work in a career that does not need a university degree. RTOs must also register with the Australian Government’s Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS) in order to offer courses to international students.

TAFE in Australia: TAFE Diploma and Advanced Diploma
Technical and Further Education (TAFE) programs provide you employment related qualifications which are certified under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF). The qualifications range through Certificate 1 to 4 up to Diploma and Advanced Diploma. TAFE Diploma and Advanced Diploma provide practical training in a wide range of occupations including technical and or/ management functions and are recognized for credit towards degree studies.

Associate Degree in Australia
Associate Degree in Australia usually is a 2 year study program that follows year 12 or equivalent. The degree program is shorter than other higher education qualification and can be a pathway to a Bachelor degree. Students learn about the foundations of their field where the degree program covers broad theories that helps you develop skills related to employment.

The Diploma, Advanced Diploma and Associate Degree are AQF Level 5 and Level 6 respectively.

Diploma Programs
International students who do not meet the entry requirements of an undergraduate program also take Diploma courses as a pathway. These programs are generally promoted by TAFE, private colleges and higher education institutions. Usually, any student who successfully completed the Diploma will be eligible to gain entry into the second year of an undergraduate degree. Diploma programs are marketed as competitors to foundation programs.

Foundation Programs
Foundation programs are also known as foundation years or university preparation courses that offer international students an alternative means to access post-school institutions. Students who do not meet the entry requirements of an undergraduate Bachelor degree program often take up foundation programs as a pathway. These programs tend to normally require one year of study, have minimum entry requirements, and often guarantee entry to a particular university course provided the student meets the required standards.

Express or Accelerated foundation programs are shorter than one year in length while the ‘extended’ foundation programs allow students to undertake a longer program than normal.

Undergraduate- Bachelor’s Degree in Australia
The Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) ranks bachelor and post graduate degrees higher than TAFE qualifications as these degree programs prepares you for your professional careers. An undergraduate degree program also prepares you for your postgraduate study. The duration of a Bachelor’s Degree ranges from three to four years depending upon the choice of course and an Honours degree may be awarded after an additional year of research.

The programs and degree options include a Bachelor degree that is AQF Level 7 and professional degree, graduate entry degree (Graduate certificate or Diploma) and Honours degree that are AQF Level 8.

Postgraduate- Master’s Degree in Australia
Students are offered Coursework Master’s that involves coursework and research, Professional Master’s that involves work- based projects and Research Master’s that consists of research and a thesis. Master’s Degrees in Australia are AQF Level 9 and usually require a two year study at a university.

Doctoral Degree in Australia
The highest award offered by an Australian University is a Doctoral Degree which is AQF Level 10 and generally a research degree where some programs might also have a course work component. The course duration of a doctoral degree in Australia is usually 3 years.

As with any other study destination, choosing the right course and university begins with researching your study options. You should carefully research different courses, institutions offering the courses including its location and fees. It is always easier when you decide on your course and then find the education provider that offers the course to select best fit university that suits your requirements. You can always narrow down your choices comparing scholarships, various facilities and support offered to international students, university rankings or, you can also take help from our experts who can help you make your decision.

It is suggested that you check the Academic and English language entry requirements and deadlines to ensure you are eligible before you apply. In case you do not meet the entry requirements, you may have to consider a different course or you can also opt for different pathway programs offered.

Students are required to contact an education agent that represents the institution in their country in order to commence with their application process.

International students required to meet the entry requirements in order gain admissions. These entry requirements are the Academic and English language requirements and the details are usually clearly mentioned on the university website. The entry requirements could vary depending upon the course and the education provider and it is best if you contact your education agent or your education provider for more details on the entry requirements.

Academic Requirements
Institutions in Australia can have varied academic requirements as they are free to determine their entry requirements for the courses. Generally, an undergraduate degree requires successful completion of Year 12 with not less than 60% or equivalent on average. Students who do not meet the entry requirements are suggested Foundation or Diploma programs. Entry into a postgraduate degree requires successful completion of a Bachelor degree with not less than 60% or equivalent on average.

English Language Requirements
International students are also required to the meet the English language proficiency requirements as Australian education institutions only accept students with an appropriate level of English proficiency. The requirements could vary however, in general, undergraduate degrees require an overall IELTS score of 6.0 with not less than 5.5 in each band or equivalent and graduate degrees require an overall IELTS score of 6.5 with not less than 6.0 in each band or equivalent. Students who do not meet the English language requirements are suggested different English language programs.

It is highly suggested that students check their education institution’s website to learn about their tuition fees however, you can see the cost of education on average as mentioned in the Australian Government- Study Australia website below:

English Language courses: Approximately $300 per week
Vocational Education and Training (Certificates I to IV, Diploma and Advanced Diploma): $4,000- $22,000 per year
Technical and Further Education (TAFE): $4,000- $22,000 per year
Foundation courses: $15,000- $39,000 in total
Undergraduate degree: $20,000- $45,000 per year
Postgraduate degree: $22,000- $50,000 per year
Doctoral degree: $18,000- $42,000 per year
The list above is a broad indication of the range of course costs (yearly) in Australian dollars.
Various scholarships are offered by the Australian Government, various education providers and other public or private organizations for international students seeking to study in Australia. Some of the major programs as mentioned in the Australian Government- Study Australia website are as follows:

Australia Awards
It aims to promote education links, knowledge, and brings together scholarships offered by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFAT), Department of Education and the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR).

Destination Australia
Over 1000 scholarships of up to $15,000 per student are available every year to support domestic and international students studying at regional Australia in qualifications from Certification IV level and above.

Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP)
The RTP is available to international students who are undertaking Research Doctorate and Research Masters degrees.Applications for these scholarships are made directly to participating university.

Provider Scholarships
These scholarship programs are offered by education providers to qualifying international students based on their academic merit. Students can directly contact the admissions team or, their education agent for information on the scholarships offered by their education provider.

Accommodation
Hostels and Guesthouses- $90 to $150 per week
Shared Rental- $95 to $215 per week
On campus- $110 to $280 per week
Homestay- $235 to $325 per week
Rental- $185 to $440 per week
Boarding schools- $11,000 to $22,000 a year

Other living expenses
Groceries and eating out- $140 to $280 per week
Gas, electricity- $10 to $20 per week
Phone and Internet- $15 to $30 per week
Public transport- $30 to $60 per week
Car (after purchase)- $150 to $260 per week
Entertainment- $80 to $150 per week
Please note that the above costs are only an approximate guide and are in Australian dollars.

(Source: Australian Government- Study Australia website)

What are the requirements for Student visa (subclass 500)?
The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) has a number of criteria for international students to obtain their student visas. The major requirements are that a student must be enrolled into full- time study, must be a genuine temporary entrant and must be of the appropriate age with a ‘good’ character. Students are also required to meet the health and health insurance requirements. Other important requirements include students to provide evidences to meet the financial requirements and demonstrate English language proficiency.

What are the documents required to apply for a student visa?
Important documents required to apply for your student visa includes your identity document (valid passport), Confirmation of enrolment (CoE), documents to provide evidence that you have enough money to fund your studies and stay in Australia, evidence that you have genuine access to the money. You must also include proof of paid adequate health insurance (Overseas Student Health Cover- OSHC) for the proposed duration of your student visa. You will need your genuine temporary documents, English language proficiency certificate. All non- English documents require English translation. You can seek for help from and education agent and we are here to guide you!

Visa Outcomes
You will receive your visa decision in writing and if granted with a visa you will receive your visa grant number, the date your visa expires and your visa conditions.

If refused, you will also receive your refusal in writing with reasons and you have a right to review the decision. You will not be refunded with the application for visa fees for however; your paid tuition fees will be refunded.

How long can you stay in Australia with your student visa?
Your student visa is a temporary visa that will allow you to study up to 5 years. Your type of course and its length will determine the length of your stay.

Can I Stay longer?
In order to continue studying in Australia for longer than five years, you must apply for a new student visa. In case your student visa will expire before your graduation, you might be eligible for a Visitor visa (subclass 600) but, you will require a letter from your education provider with the date of your graduation.

If you hold a student visa and have completed a CRICOS- registered course in the last six months, you may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485). It allows international students to live, study and work temporarily in Australia when you have finished your studies.

You may be eligible for the Skilled Recognition Graduate visa (subclass 476) if you are a recent engineering graduate of a recognized institution. This visa allows recent engineering graduates to live, study and work in Australia for up to 18 months.

It is important that you carry you valid passport with a valid visa to enter Australia. You can use the Visa Entitlement Verification Online system (VEVO) to check your visa conditions. It is also important that you check your luggage details on your ticket avoid over packing. You should carry climate-appropriate clothing, your official documents, OSHC card, Australian currency, travel adaptors for your electrical items, souvenirs from your home country or, any other personal items.  With limited luggage, most education providers advise students to avoid large items that include household items or other kitchen appliances.

Students must complete the Incoming Passenger card that you will get on board. When you arrive at the airport, you are required to go through the immigration and customs clearance. A clearance officer will check your travel document and visa and once you have cleared the immigration, you can now collect your luggage to go through the customs.

As a non-citizen of Australia, you might be required to have your fingerprints checked when arriving where a minimum of four fingerprints will be scanned.

It is suggested that you arrange your accommodation before you arrive in Australia. Get your address written handy so that you can show it to your taxi or hire car, or have detailed directions if you are using a public transport. In case your university or institution has arranged a pick-up, you will be advised of where you need to go.

Institutions run orientation week which is also known as ‘O Week’ for new students that are a regular part of the international student support process. It is typically held at the start of the year and during this week you will learn about your institution and the study environment, take campus tours and have course and enrolment information explained, and meet various people. You will also be informed about facilities like banking and using public transports. Information about the orientation week will be easily available on the institution’s website with schedule of various activities.

Your education institution will advise on how you can obtain your student ID card. Generally, you are required to be enrolled in the classes to request for your ID Card. You student ID usually includes your student number along with your photograph and you can easily access student services like libraries or gyms on the campus.

Australian education providers offer range of specialist services to help international students adjust to life and commence their studies in Australia. Some common support and services include: language and academic support, on-arrival reception and orientation programs, mental health, wellbeing and counseling, accommodation, employment services and many more.  Additionally, there are student associations like Council of International Students Australia (CISA) and Australian Federation of International Students (AFIS) that assist and represent the needs and interests of the students.  Other student services include Disability services for students who require assistance with their studies because of a disability or chronic medical condition. Australian education providers also have childcare facilities with trained staff. International students who have been granted with financial assistance through a government scholarship may be eligible for the childcare benefit.

Banking in Australia
Getting your bank account in Australia will allow you an easy access to your money and you can easily make or receive payments. There are four major banks in Australia and a number of smaller banks. Most banks will allow you to apply online to open up your bank account through their website where you will be required to fill in your personal details and provide the required documents. You will be notified when you application has been approved and you can visit the bank to collect you debit card and also register for telephone and internet banking. Fees are generally applied when withdrawing funds from another bank’s ATM or when using international cards.

Seeing a doctor in Australia
All international students in Australia under a student visa are required to obtain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) which will cover a good proportion of your medical expenses. You should carry your OSHC card with you to the clinic and make sure you know beforehand what your insurance covers. Basic OSHC covers visits to doctor, some hospital treatment, limited pharmaceuticals, ambulance cover etc. Universities have on-campus clinic which is usually the most convenient for international students.

In case of medical emergency, rush to the nearest hospital or call the emergency helpline 000.

Working while Studying
International students on student visa are allowed to work 40 hours every two weeks (fortnight) during term time, and you can work unlimited hours during breaks. You have the same workplace protection as any Australian citizen in the workplace. A work week in Australia is considered to be Monday through the following Sunday. It is important that you understand you cannot begin working until your courses have begun even if you are allowed to arrive in Australia up to 90 days before the course start date.

Are international students required to pay taxes?
International students might be required to pay tax depending on how much you earn. If you are in Australia for a duration of six months or more, you are regarded as Australian resident for tax purposes and you are obliged to pay the taxes. Students who earn more than $18,200 are required to file a tax return at the end of the financial year. Majority of international students in Australia are entitled to claim a tax refund at the end of the year and you will need your payslip from each, Tax File Number (TFN), receipts of work-related expenses and receipts or invoices of any self-education expenses.

International students who do not file their tax return are at the risk of incurring fines or penalties and will also miss out on the tax refund which can be a lot of money.

Getting a Tax File Number (TFN)
It is suggested that you get your TFN before starting work so that you can give it to your employer and ensure you do not pay more tax than you should. You can simply apply online via the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) website where you will require a valid passport and a valid visa. Once you have completed your application online, your TFN will be posted to your Australian postal address given on your application which can usually take up to 28 days.

What is superannuation?
Super or superannuation is a system for employees in Australia to gather funds to replace their income in retirement. Your employer is obliged to legally pay 9.5% of your basic earnings into a superannuation fund if you earn more than $450 a month in Australia. It is applicable if you work casual, part-time or full-time hours and if you are a temporary resident. However, it is important that you understand that you can only claim your Departing Australia Superannuation Payment (superannuation refund) when you have left Australia or your visa has expired.

Can international students drive in Australia?
International students who are regarded as temporary residents in Australia can drive with a valid driving license from your home country. In case your license is not in English language, you must carry a certified translation in English. If you don’t have a driving license yet, you can apply for a license in Australia through your state or territory motor registry. You will be required to undergo a series of tests.

Can I visit home or travel outside Australia during my course of study?
Students can enter or leave Australia as often as it is necessary while on a student visa. It is important that you ensure you passport will not expire while outside of Australia. In case of expired passport where you obtain a new passport you must inform the DHA before you travel overseas.

Can my parent visit me during my studies?
Your parents can apply for a visitor visa if they wish to visit you while you are studying in Australia. It is important that they meet the requirements of the visitor visa.

Graduate Work Stream
International students with an eligible qualification that includes degree, diploma or trade qualification related to the student’s nominated skilled occupation on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL) can be granted with a visa of 18 months under this stream. It is important to note that the Skilled Occupation List (SOL) changes regularly.

Post- Study Work Stream
International students with an eligible qualification which includes Bachelor degree, Bachelor honours degree, Masters by coursework, Masters extended degree, Masters by research degree and doctoral degree can be granted a visa for 2-4 years under this stream depending on the highest educational qualification obtained. It is important that the courses must have been completed at an Australian University or education provider accredited to offer degree level programs. Diploma level qualification or trade qualifications are not eligible under this stream.

International students often choose to apply for permanent residency after their graduation. You must ‘express interest’ through the Department of Immigration and Border Protection’s Skillselect migration program.  Applicants are required to provide personal details, nominated occupation, information about work experience and education, their level of English language proficiency. The most likely option is the Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) for a graduate which allows you to work in Australia as a permanent resident. The Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) is a way to improve likelihood of gaining a PR. Various courses like Engineering, Accounting, Nursing, Social Work, Medical, Computer and Information Technology (IT), Education and Teaching, Automotive, Dentistry etc. will help you get a well-paid job leading to PR in Australia.