Frequently Asked Questions

How can I find out which are the best universities in Australia?

There is no official ranking of Australian universities, but The Good Guides offer independent ratings and rankings (www.thegoodguides.com.au) to help students choose a course, campus or university. There are also several quality assurance schemes that can tell you more about the quality of a course.
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How can I apply for a course at an Australian university?

You can use IDP Apply Online (idp.studylink.com.au), which is a web-based application system for courses at Australian universities. The site allows you to find the course that best suits your needs and enrol on the programme of your choice. You can also use paper-based application forms.
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How much will it cost?

Typical tuition fees for Bachelor’s degrees range from A$10,000 to A$16,500 a year. Graduate Certificates and Diplomas, and Master’s and Doctoral degree tuition fees are between A$11,000 and A$18,500 per year of study. On top of this, living costs for students (eg accommodation, food, transport and clothes) has been estimated by the Australian Department of Immigration and Multicultural and Indigenous Affairs to be in the region of A$8,500 to A$15,000 per year.
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Can I work while I study?

International students in Australia on a student visa can work up to 20 hours a week on a casual basis during course time, and full time during vacation periods. They can only apply for a visa with work rights after arrival and the commencement of their studies. The money earned should only supplement their existing income and not be the main means of supporting their studies.
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Will my qualifications be acceptable?

It depends. To make sure that your qualifications are comparable to Australian qualifications and therefore acceptable to the Australian institution you have selected, you should approach the National Office of Overseas Skills Recognition. Its website can be found at www.dest.gov.au/noosr.
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Will there be any language requirements?

Yes. All Australian institutions will conduct their teaching in English. If you are not a native English speaker, you will have to meet the minimum English language requirements as set down by your chosen institution, usually given as an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) grade.  It is important that you check the entry requirements with the institution. There are many English language courses to prepare you for study in Australia available if necessary.
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How do I apply?

For first-degree courses you should approach the institution that interests you directly for an application form. You can also get forms from an Australian education agent (details available from the Australian diplomatic post in your country). Fill out the form, attach all necessary documentation to it and submit it to the institution or your education agent. Once your application has been received, it will be assessed and you will be told whether you were successful or not.

For postgraduate courses, you should directly approach the department or faculty that interests you.

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