Over the years, Australia has become a popular place for foreign students to study. The high quality of the schools and universities has led to Australia having the 3rd highest number of international students in the English-speaking world behind the USA and UK.

Before applying for a student visa, you need to think of some factors. Obviously, where and what would you like to study is just one question. To research the universities, and the courses offered, in Australia, please visit our university directory. However, you may not be ready for a university course and Australia offers a wide range of educational options from English Language Courses to Vocational Education and Training as well.

Another big question is whether or not you are proficient in speaking English. Australian education institutions can only accept students with an appropriate level of English proficiency. Obviously a big question to ask yourself.

What are the fees involved? Well there are tuition fees but they do not come close to the cost in the United States and the U.K. Here is an approximate guide as of June, 2002.

• Secondary schools

AUD $6,000 – 13,000 per year

• University

Undergraduate: AUD $10,000 – $16,500 per year

Postgraduate: AUD $9,000 – $18,500 per year

Foundation Studies: AUD $9,000 – $14,000 per year

• Vocational education and training

(TAFE and private colleges)

Certificates I-IV

Diploma

Advanced Diploma

AUD $5,500 – $18,000 per year

• English language training

(varies a lot depending on the length of the course)

AUD $3,500 – 13,500

Other costs include accommodation, food and other living expenses. These expenses can vary dramatically depending on your location. For example a large city such as Sydney or Melbourne is going to cost much more to live in than Hobart in Tasmania.

Will you qualify for a student visa? You already know that you have to be proficient in English but you must also have adequate means of financial support, have health insurance coverage while in Australia, intend to undertake registered courses on a full-time basis and are of good character. If you fulfill these requirements you can learn more about the student visa process at http://www.studyinaustralia.gov.au/

More information on visa requirements can be found at http://www.studyinaustralia.gov.au

The final question, is will you be accepted into an educational institution such as an university. To gain a better feel for this you should probably contact the universities. Most of their websites have information for foreign students.

Good luck with your educational endeavours in Australia.

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