Australia has emerged as a leading destination for international students, attracting individuals from diverse backgrounds. Here are the top 10 reasons why students worldwide are drawn to study in Australia:
Accredited Education System:
Australia boasts a unique education system governed by the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF), emphasizing standardized qualifications. Ranging from Diplomas to Doctorates, this framework ensures a comprehensive and structured approach to education.
Additionally, the country has stringent regulations, particularly under the Australian Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act 2000, ensuring international students’ rights and welfare are safeguarded.
Globally Ranked Universities:
Australia is home to over 1,100 educational institutions offering a diverse array of courses. The improvement in the ranking of Australian universities underscores the academic excellence present. Notably, universities such as the Australian National University, the University of Melbourne, and the University of Sydney consistently rank among the top globally.
Cultural Diversity and Inclusive Environment:
Australia’s strength lies in its rich cultural diversity, with one in four people being born overseas. This multicultural environment fosters a sense of inclusivity and acceptance. Australia’s low crime index further contributes to a safe and welcoming atmosphere.
The presence of sizable Indian communities in various regions, such as Victoria, New South Wales, and Queensland, facilitates cultural celebrations and a sense of community.
Superior Quality of Life:
Australian cities consistently rank among the most livable globally, including Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, Brisbane, and Adelaide. The country’s overall ranking of 12th in the World Happiness Index 2023 reflects the high standard of living and the welcoming environment for international students.
Linguistic Diversity:
Australia, with over 200 languages and dialects spoken, offers unparalleled linguistic diversity. While English is widely spoken, the presence of various languages reflects the country’s multiculturalism, providing students with a global exposure opportunity.
Reasonable Cost of Living and Tuition Fees:
Compared to countries like the UK and the USA, Australia offers a more affordable cost of living and tuition fees. The variety of degrees available at Australian universities come with reasonable price tags, making education accessible. A breakdown of costs for different degree types illustrates the affordability for international students.
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Bachelor’s Degree: AUD 20,000 – 45,000 (INR 11,01,400 – 24,78,000)
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Masters Degree: AUD 22,000 – 50,000 (INR 12,10,000 – 27,53,500)
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Doctorate Degree: AUD 18,000 – 42,000 (INR 9,91,000 – 23,11,000)
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Monthly living expenses are also manageable, with categories such as accommodation, food, transportation, utility bills, and miscellaneous expenses outlined.
Abundance of Scholarships and Financial Assistance:
International students can significantly reduce tuition fees through a variety of scholarships in Australia for Indian students. Several scholarships, including the Australian Awards Scholarships, Destination Australia Scholarship, Endeavour Postgraduate Scholarship, and Sydney Scholars India Equity Scholarship, offer financial support with specific eligibility criteria. Notably, the new Maitri scholarship by the Australian government aims to provide financial aid covering tuition costs and living expenses for Indian students.
Work While You Study:
Australia allows international students to work part-time during semesters and full-time during vacations, providing valuable opportunities to gain practical experience. The flexibility in work hours aligns with students’ academic commitments. Recommended industries for employment include retail, hospitality, healthcare services, and tutoring.
Post-Study Work Visa:
The Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) enables international students to stay in Australia and work after completing their studies. Recent changes in government policies allow students to extend their work visa for selected courses, providing extended opportunities:
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Selected Bachelor Degrees: 2 – 4 years extension
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Selected Masters Degrees: 3 – 5 years extension
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Selected Doctoral Qualifications: 4 – 6 years extension
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The Mobility Arrangement for Talent Early-professional Scheme (MATES) further allows Indian students to work without visa sponsorship for up to 8 years.
Favorable Climatic Conditions:
Australia offers a pleasant climate throughout the year, providing international students with comfortable living conditions. Unlike some countries with extreme weather conditions, Australia’s climate is adaptable, with seasons opposite to those in the northern hemisphere. The average temperatures during summers (30 degrees Celsius) and winters (14 degrees Celsius) contribute to a favorable environment for international students.
In conclusion, Australia stands as an ideal destination for international students, offering a combination of academic excellence, cultural diversity, affordable living costs, and ample post-study opportunities. As you consider pursuing your education abroad, Australia presents a holistic and enriching experience that extends beyond the classroom.