why study in australia

The land Down Under is famous as the home of beautiful weather, relaxed living and diverse sport and leisure opportunities. But did you know that it’s also the world’s third most popular destination for study abroad? Or that Australian universities are internationally renowned for the quality of their research and training?

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 its universities offer.

Here are some of the most compelling reasons to consider a Masters in Australia this year:

  • World-class reputation – There are eight Australian universities among the world’s top 150, reflecting the country’s academic excellence.
  • International outlook – Over 330,000 overseas students can’t be wrong – Australian institutions must be doing something right!
  • Fantastic climate and quality of life – Along with enviable year-round sunshine, Australia enjoys its status as one of the world’s safest and most stable countries.
  • Unique research opportunities – Australia’s oceans and beaches may be famous as a surfer’s paradise, but they also offer unparalleled potential for environmental science research. After all, how many other countries give their marine biologists the chance to explore the Great Barrier Reef?
  • Internationally recognised programmes – Modelled on the British degree system, Australian Masters degrees are respected around the world.

 

Masters Study in Australia – Key Details
Universities 43
Oldest University University of Sydney (1850)
International Students 335,512
Course Length 1-2 years
Average Fees AUD $20,000-37,000 (USD $15,660-29,000)
Academic Year February to November

Masters Study in Australia - Key Details

process for acquiring usa student visa (Masters degree)

Most people will need a visa to study a Masters in Australia as an international student. Note that visas are only available for full-time students. Unfortunately, you won’t be able to receive a visa to study a part-time Masters in Australia.

Who doesn’t need a visa to study in Australia?

You won’t normally need an Australian student visa if you are a citizen of Australia, a citizen of New Zealand, or have the right to reside permanently in New Zealand or Australia.

What type of visa will you need to study a Masters in Australia?

You’ll need to apply for a Student Visa (subclass 500) to study a postgraduate programme in Australia. This will allow you to live and study in Australia for the duration of your programme. You’ll also be able to re-enter the country multiple times during this period – perfect if you’re keen to get home for a white Christmas!

Application process

Before you can apply for the visa you will need to be accepted onto an Australian Masters degree course and receive Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). This will be a formal document issued by your university following the payment of a tuition fee deposit.

Once you have your CoE form you can begin your application, using the Australian Department of Immigration and Border Control website to apply online for the Student Visa (subclass 500).

You’ll need to provide supporting information. This should include:

  • Your passport details
  • CoE evidence
  • Proof that you meet financial requirements (see below)
  • Evidence of your Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
  • A CV
  • Certified copies of your academic transcripts

You will also need to pay an AUD $560 application fee (USD $435).

The processing period for your visa can vary, but it should normally be issued to you within four weeks.

Additional visa regulations

Australian student visas are usually subject to the following additional regulations:

  • Working – You can work for up to 40 hours a fortnight on a type 573 visa, subject to restrictions. Working hours for students on type 574 visas are not limited. See our guide to living as a Masters student in Australia for more information on working while studying abroad.
  • Academic progress – The validity of your student visa will be subject to your making satisfactory progress on your degree program.
  • Financial requirements – The Australian government estimates a requirement of around AUD $20,290 per year for student living costs (USD $15,780). You may need to demonstrate access to this amount (in the form of existing savings, sponsorship or funding).

Health insurance

You will need valid health insurance for the duration of your Masters in Australia. This is referred to as Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) and is available from a range of providers.

The amount of cover provided by OSHC policies varies, but a minimum level is set by the Australian Department of Health. You can find more information on the Study in Australia website.

Top ranking australian universities for higher education

Australian university rankings

With eight universities among the top 150 in the world (according to the Times Higher Education and QS World University Rankings), Australia has an impressive global reputation for higher education. It’s no surprise that so many international students flock to Australia.

For a more in-depth look at the leagues, take a look at our guide to Australian postgraduate rankings.

Top Australian Universities in 2019
University THE 2019 QS 2019 ARWU 2018
University of Melbourne =32 39 38
Australian National University 49 24 69
University of Sydney =59 42 68
University of Queensland 69 48 55
Monash University =84 =59 91
University of New South Wales =96 45 101-150
University of Western Australia 134 91 93
University of Adelaide =135 114 101-150
University of Technology, Sydney 196 =160 301-350

University In Australia

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