Australia- a small island continent is the third most popular destination for study purposes among international students in the world after the United Kingdom (UK) and United States (US). Despite the low population, Australia has become one of the world leaders in education.
Most famous for its natural wonders, wide-open spaces, vast beaches, diverse wildlife and Great Barrier Reef, Australia has always been considered a popular tourist destination. However, do not underestimate what Australia has to offer. Apart from all these attractions, Australia also has an excellent higher education system.
Going by the numbers, Australia is currently home to nearly 720,000 international students across various levels of education. That is almost an 11% increase from the numbers in 2017.
So, what makes Australia such an attractive destination for international students? Here are some of the reasons:
Benefits of Studying Masters in Australia:
Australia being an English-speaking country attracts thousands of students every year. As an international Masters student, you’ll have the chance to experience the things that make Australia one of the world’s most appealing tourist destinations and take advantage of the unique educational opportunities that it offers. However, that’s not all. There are multiple other reasons that make this country one of the most preferred destinations for masters abroad.
Here are some of the most compelling reasons to study Masters in Australia:
1. Global Recognition-
Australia has some of the globally high-ranked universities that mark an epitome for excellence in education despite being comparatively young compared with universities such as the Oxford University, UK, or Harvard University, US. It offers premium training facilities and outstanding lecturers. In fact, independent global rankings such as Times Higher Education and QS consistently ranks Australian universities in the world’s top 100 universities year after year.
2. Quality Education-
The education system in Australia is considered to be one of the best in the world. The educators in the country provide quality education mainly focusing on applying the knowledge gained in real-life situations. The last thing they are concerned of are good exam scores. Although, scores matter but they believe that mere scores cannot provide a true reflection of an individual’s potential and thereby more focus is given to quality education.
3. High standard of living-
Australia’s standard of living is amongst the highest in the world. Australian cities are consistently ranked as some of the most liveable cities in the world. In fact, major cities such as Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Canberra, Adelaide, Perth and the Gold Coast are in the world’s top 100 student cities. Once in Australia, you will enjoy high quality standards of healthcare, transport, infrastructure and government services.
4. Vast networking opportunities-
As an international student in Australia, you can take advantage of long term-networking opportunities via peers and alumni. Over the years, 5 million international students from 192 countries have graduated from Australian universities and are now a part of the global alumni network that is making an impact around the world.
Top Universities in Australia
Since Australia has an education system that is so well-developed, Australian Universities have consistently topped the charts. Australia has some of the best universities and education programs like MiM, MBA, MEM, M.Fin in the world and students from 50+ countries travel them every year.
The majority of Australian Universities are public institutions, administered and funded by the Australian federal government.
Here is a list of some of the leading institutions in the country:
1. Australian National University (ANU)-
Established in 1946, Australian National University is one of the world-leading centers for research, education and policy engagement. Located in the capital city of Canberra, the university has strong ties to the Australian Government and special standing as a resource for the Australian people. The University’s global influence is amplified through its membership of the International Alliance of Research Universities. Also, ANU is a member of the Association of Pacific Rim Universities, as well as the Group of Eight, a coalition of Australia’s leading universities.
2. University of Melbourne-
Established in 1853, the University of Melbourne is consistently ranked amongst the leading universities in the world. Degrees at the University of Melbourne stand out for being modelled on those from top institutions overseas. Also, apart from excellent academic curriculum, the university has over 200 affiliated clubs and societies, ranging from Chess Club to Women in Science and Engineering.
3. University of Sydney-
Founded in 1850, the University of Sydney is an Australian public research university, regularly ranked in the world’s top 50 universities. It offers 250+ exchange opportunities and has a wide alumni community of about 350,000 students in more than 170+ countries. The University offers Australia’s broadest range of disciplines and its research focuses on finding solutions to society’s biggest challenges. Outside the classroom, the university has more than 200 student-run clubs and societies that bring the campus to life.
4. University of New South Wales (UNSW)-
Established in 1949, offers 900 Bachelor’s degrees in nine faculties followed research-based Postgraduate and doctorate courses. It is one of the best universities to study in Australia. With more than 70 research centres, the university is rated above world standard for almost 75 of 100 academic fields. There are more than 200 jobs of all kinds advertised by the career centre throughout the year for those looking to work during the study.
5. University of Queensland (UQ)-
Founded in 1909, the University of Queensland takes immense pride in its academic excellence and is the winner of several national awards for its teaching quality. UQ is a proud member of the Università 21 and a founding member of the Group of Eight (Go8) universities. It has over 100 research centres and is a multicultural hub, comprising of over 55,300 students from 134 countries. Also, the university has access to more than 220 clubs and societies that helps them develop a holistic profile.
Applying for Masters in Australia
To be eligible to enter Australia as an international student for studying a Master’s program in any of the universities, one needs a Australia Student Visa (Subclass 500). This will allow you to study and stay in Australia for the duration of your program.
Also, you must be enrolled for a full-time master’s program registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS). Unfortunately, you won’t be able to receive a visa to study a part-time Masters in Australia.
However, if you are a citizen of Australia, a citizen of New Zealand, or have the right to reside permanently in New Zealand or Australia, you won’t normally need a visa.
Documents required for a student visa in Australia
- Evidence of your identity. Attach a copy of your passport.
- Non-immigrant Visa Application
- Application fee payment receipt
- Confirmation of Enrolment Form (COE) – To obtain a visa to study in Australia you must be fully enrolled in an Australian institution and receive a “Confirmation of Enrolment (COE)”. These forms are issued by the Australian institution you will be attending. The forms are usually issued after the tuition fees have been received.3Acceptance letter from your host university, this will include the proposed study plan
Overseas health insurance receipt (OSHC) - Recent Digital photographs
- Transcripts, diplomas, degrees, or certificates from schools you attended
- Evidence of your English proficiency skills (IELTS/ TOEFL/ Cambridge/ PTE Scores)
- Statement of Purpose
- Evidence of Financial Capacity
- Biometrics
- Evidence to show that you meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant requirement
- Proof of a good character stating that you do not have any criminal record or charges against you and that you have never been deported from Australia before.
Working in Australia with a Student Visa:
As an international student in Australia, you are eligible to work for up to 40 hours in a fortnight (A fortnight means 14 days starting on a Monday) while your course is in session. Of course, you can take on more than one job as long as the total hours are not more than 40 in a fortnight.
However, this limit does not include placements, internships or other activities that may be required by your course. Also, you may take part in volunteer work outside of the 40 hours per fortnight work limitation provided it benefits the community, is for a non-profit organization and satisfies certain other conditions.
Note that your right to work while studying abroad in Australia only applies for the duration of your course. So, you must not work in Australia before your course of study commences.
Admission requirements for academic programs in Australia:
1. UG Requirements- Entry into most master’s programs in Australia typically need a bachelor’s degree from a recognized university. Most universities accept an equivalent of a UK 2.1 or higher. This is roughly equivalent to a GPA of 3.0 or better in the USA.
2. GMAT or GRE scores - It is worth nothing that there are several institutions that offer MBA in Australia without GMAT, so in case you are unable to take the GMAT exam, it is advisable to explore those alternatives.
3. English language Requirements- If you are applying to Australian universities as an international student, you will need to prove your English language proficiency. The accepted tests are: IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, CAE and OET. The minimum score requirement will vary depending on your desired institution and your country of citizenship.
4. Academic Transcripts providing additional details of your undergraduate education, such as the subjects you have studied and how you performed in them.
5. Letters of Recommendation- Most universities ask for 2 LORs. They can be from your academic professors or professional employers.
6. Application Essays or Personal Statement- This may vary from university to university. Some institutions ask for 3-4 application essays adhering to a specified word limit while some universities may just ask for a personal statement defining your motivation and purpose of study in Australia in a particular program.
Academic Year and intakes in Australia:
Unlike India, the academic year in Australia begins in February. It runs across two semesters from February to June and from July to November.
Unlike a single intake in the Indian universities, Australian colleges and universities offer two major intakes- February and July. However, there are some programs that are only available to begin in February.
Scholarships:
One of the main attractions in Australia for international students is the availability of numerous scholarships, grants and bursaries to assist them financially with their studies in Australia. There are two types of scholarships available, both that are funded by the government and those that are university-specific.
Some of the scholarships available for the master’s program are:
- Australia Awards Scholarships
- Destination Australia program
- Australian Government Research Training Program
- University of Sydney International Scholarships
- Australia Embassy Fully Funded Scholarship
- Rotary Peace Fellowship
- Endeavour Postgraduate Scholarship Awards
Life in Australia as an International Student:
Australia is one of the world’s strongest economies, with vibrant, high-tech cities and a wide range of cultural experiences to explore. Apart from an excellent education imparted, Australia has more to offer that makes the student experience an exhilarating one.
Sports and Leisure Activities– Take a break and get out to explore leisure activities and you will find plenty of them in Australia. From visiting beautiful beaches, scenic landscapes to world heritage sites and music festivals, you can never stop falling in love with the country. Also, you can enjoy sports such as cricket and Aussie rules football.
Education and Living Expenses in Australia:
Pursuing Masters in Australia is definitely a dream come true. Knowing the average cost of living and studying in Australia is an important part of your application and financial preparation.
Your cost of education in Australia largely depends on your desired university. However, some general costs associated with living and studying in Australia are:
- Accommodation (If on Campus)- AUD 110 to AUD 280 per week
(If Shared Rental) – AUD 95 to AUD 215 per week
- Phone and Internet – AUD 15 to AUD 30 per week
- Gas, electricity – AUD 10 to AUD 20 per week
- Public transport – AUD 30 to AUD 60 per week
- Groceries and eating out – AUD 140 to AUD 280 per week
- Entertainment – AUD 80 to AUD 150 per week
