Australia is emerging as a popular study abroad destination for higher studies. The country is home to some world class universities and offers a plethora of subject options to choose from for specialization. It is relatively inexpensive to study in Australia when compared to US or UK; also, the country allows international students to work part time. There are people of diverse cultures who have made Australia their home and as a multi-cultural society, the country makes it easier for international students to fit in comfortably.
Let’s take a look at the top 7 reasons why students prefer Australia for their higher studies.
#1 Quality education and globally recognised degrees
Australian universities are acclaimed for their world class education that promotes thought leading creativity among their students across varied disciplines. There are 7 Australian universities that rank among the top hundred in the world. Australian education has stayed abreast of pedagogical methods that equip students with essential theoretical knowledge and also provide them with enough opportunities to apply and practise their knowledge. Australian degrees are recognised across the world. Australia has a national policy – Australian Qualifications Framework (established in 1995) – that lays out standards of qualifications for higher education. AQF is an assurance that students’ degrees are formally recognised by the Govt.
#2 Wide choice of subjects and flexibility
As per Australia.com, you can choose from 22,000 courses from over 1,100 institutes. Australia has a total of 43 universities and the students are spoilt for choice of subjects. All that international students need to do is to narrow in on the subjects that they are interested in and then identify the school that serves their needs and interests the best. Be it engineering, agriculture, English, medicine, mathematics or finance, there is an enormous range of options available to students. There are a lot of universities that allow students to move from one degree to another and even from one institution to another.
#3 Extensive student support services
Australia’s Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS ACT) framework enforces by law the best-practice protection for the rights of international students studying in Australia. There are dedicated student support centres in many cities where international students can get practical advice and support. The universities have their own support cells comprising student volunteers who organise orientation and welcoming sessions, guiding students on how to settle in easily. They also hold activities and social meetings from time to time to extend support to international students throughout the year.
#4 Scholarships and student discounts
Over 4200 scholarships are available to Australian students across the vocational and higher education sectors. Regional universities have been awarded close to $200 million by the Australian Govt for scholarships to international students.
Overseas students are entitled to discounts on study supplies and streaming services. The students can avail these discounts by registering online to verify their student status on the university website. They will get a one-time promotional code which they can use to avail discount on the stipulated products and services.
#5 Part time work opportunities
International students are allowed to work part time in Australia while they are pursuing their education. Not only does this help monetarily but also works as a base for understanding real job spaces and cultural environment. As per the rules, international students in Australia can work for up to 40 hours in a fortnight while the course is in session and for unlimited hours when the course is not in session (during breaks). The thing to remember is that it is only after the course commences that the student can start to work.
#6 Career opportunities and Permanent Residency
As per the Australian International Directors Forum survey, 79% of the students make it into a full-time job within three years of graduating. Both public and private sectors in Australia welcome students who graduate from Australian universities because they are already trained to be work ready in an environment that the country offers. There is a high demand for skilled workers and that works in favour of students wanting to stay back for work in Australia after completion of their degree program. They can apply for a post- study work visa – Temporary Graduate Visa – which allows them to stay in the country for four years.
A student’s chances of settling down in Australia get enhanced because for a permanent residency (PR), one of the terms you must meet is the Australian Study Requirement. You need to fulfil at least two years of study, which implies that you must complete a course for two years in Australia. A Skilled Independent Visa is a standard method that students go in for to stay in Australia by applying for Permanent Residency.
#7 Safe and diverse country
Australia’s public spaces and streets are safe spaces with many cities reporting some of the lowest crime rates in the world. Students have many options for accommodation – there are purpose-built student villages, homestays, private rentals, share-houses or boarding school accommodation. The medical services are reliable and there is great emphasis on inclusivity. Migrants comprise 25% of the country’s population and the multicultural diversity can be seen in the cuisines, lifestyle and socio-cultural events. It gives international students a chance to explore and experience multiple cultures.
Conclusion
Australia is a diverse country which offers great benefits for international students. The quality of education and options for working make it an attractive option for students to pursue higher studies here.