In 2007, the total number of International Students registered in a wide variety of courses in Australia was 455,185. So many students have invested their time and money as Australia offers:
- dynamic education programs with a global reputation for excellence
- globally-recognised courses and qualifications
- a relaxed, pleasant and safe lifestyle
- affordable study and living expenses compared to many other countries
- vibrant and appealing multicultural cities
- great weather
- incredible and diverse landscapes and panoramas
- exceptional and breathtaking flora and fauna.
Unlike many other countries, Australian higher education institutions are regulated at the Federal level ensuring that students receive a high standard of education. The performance of institutions is examined annually to ensure that all universities maintain the high standards required by the Australian Government. The benefit of having a small number of institutions ensures that standards are closely and regularly monitored and maintained.
Australia, although a relatively young country when compared to many others, has much to offer in regards to education and training to broaden your horizons.
Tuition fees
International students are charged up-front tuition fees in Australia. These fees are very affordable and are less expensive than the UK or USA.These costs vary depending on the course or institution, therefore the average costs provided below should only be used as a guide.
| University | |
| Foundation Studies | |
| Foundation Studies | $A9000 - $A14,000 a year |
| such as university entrance, preparatory and bridging courses | |
| Undergraduate Degree | |
| Bachelor Degree | $A10,000 - $A18,000 a year |
| such as courses in arts, business, economics and law | |
| Laboratory-based Bachelor Degree | $A12,000 - $A20,000 a year |
| such as science and engineering courses | |
| Postgraduate Degree | |
| Graduate Certificates | $A9000 - $A16,000 a year |
| Graduate Diplomas | |
| Masters | $A11,000 - $A18,500 a year |
| Doctoral Degree | |
| Vocational education and training | |
| Certificates I - IV | $A5500 - $A18,000 a year |
| Diploma | |
| Advanced Diploma | |
| School | |
| Secondary school | $A6000 - $A13,000 a year |
| Primary and junior secondary schools | $A5000 - $A11,000 a year |
| English language training | |
| varies significantly depending on the course duration or institution | $A3500 - $A13,500 |
Educational Quality Assurance
The Australian Government has a number of quality assurance processes to ensure that overseas students receive a quality education and training experience in Australia.The Education Services for Overseas Students Act 2000 (ESOS Act 2000) of the Commonwealth of Australia regulates all Australian education and training providers that enrol overseas students studying in Australia. It requires that an Educational Provider must be registered on the Commonwealth [Australian] Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), meet quality assurance standards, comply with tuition and financial assurance requirements, and monitor overseas students in complying with the conditions of their visas.
CRICOS lists all institutions authorised to offer courses for overseas students in Australia, and all courses approved for overseas students in Australia. CRICOS and the ESOS Act are administered by DEST to ensure that overseas students studying in Australia receive high quality education and training and receive the services for which they have paid.
Note: international students can check the CRICOS website, http://cricos.dest.gov.au, to make sure that courses they are interested in enrolling in are registered.