Applying to Australian universities

Why study in Australia?

Behind the UK and the USA, Australia is now the third most popular country to study in for international students.

Many choose to head down under for the friendly people, high quality of education and, of course, the sunshine!

Standard of living is also among the highest in the world, and the universities offer excellent value for money. Living expenses and tuition costs in Australia are considerably less expensive than the UK and USA.

What is the Australian higher education system like?

Higher (or tertiary) education in Australia is made up of universities and other higher education institutions known as 'higher education providers'.

A higher education provider is either a:

• university
• self-accrediting provider (colleges) or
• non self-accrediting provider.

As of 2020, the Australian higher education system consists of:

• 42 universities - 37 are public institutions, 3 are private, and 2 are Australian branches of overseas universities;

• 2 other self-accrediting higher education institutions; and

• non-self-accrediting higher education providers accredited by State and Territory authorities, numbering more than 150 as listed on State and Territory registers. These include several that are registered in more than one State and Territory.

How do I choose an Australian university?

When choosing which Australian universities to apply to, think about the following factors:

• Academic excellence
• International student support
• Location
• Course content
• Costs
• Funding

It's important you research each of these thoroughly to make sure you apply to the right institutions for you. For more help and advice, take a look at our choosing an Australian university guide.

How do I apply to an Australian university?

Applying to Australian universities will take longer than if you are applying as an undergraduate in the UK.

To apply for an Australian undergraduate programme, you must submit your application directly to the individual university.

Read the deadlines for applications carefully, and remember that the process can take a long time, so make sure to fill in and submit your application as soon as possible.

What are the entry requirements for Australian universities?

Australian universities ask international students to have qualifications that are equivalent to their Year 12 studies.

In the UK, the equivalent is A levels, so if you have done A levels, you should be considered for an undergraduate course at an Australian university.

Most institutions will as for a minimum of 2 A levels and a maximum of 2 AS levels.

If you do not have A levels, but have another similar qualification, you can find out if it is accepted as an entry requirement by going to the international students section on the website of the university you are interested in applying to.

What documents are required to study in Australia?

To study for a degree in Australia, you will need:

• Certified copies of all your academic transcripts and/or work experience endorsed by an appropriate person, for example, school results certified by the school principal.
• Evidence that you meet the English language requirements (e.g. IELTS test scores).
• A Subclass 573 Higher Education visa – this particular visa is for students wishing to undertake a Bachelor degree, Associate Degree, Graduate Certificate, Graduate Diploma and Masters by course work.

This visa allows you to stay in Australia for the duration of your course, and will usually expire 2 months after the end date of your course.

What finance arrangements do I need to study in Australia?

The main sources of funding you can look into to help yourself financially whilst studying in Australia include:

1. Home country
2. International organisations
3. Australian universities
4. Private Australian organisations
5. Family

For help and advice with funding options, take a look at our funding guide.