Education system

The Australian education system is broadly divided into the university, vocational, school and English language sectors.

University is the highest level of study in Australia. There are 41 universities in total - 38 public (government funded) and three private. You can study at the undergraduate level (Bachelor degree) or postgraduate level (Graduate Certificate, Diploma, Masters, PhD).

Vocational institutions are closely linked with industry, making courses very practical and skill-based. Vocational courses are provided at both the government-funded Technical and Further Education (TAFE) institutes and at private institutions. Some universities also offer vocational courses.

School is compulsory for children aged between 6 and 15 years, with exams for university generally at 18 years old. Australian schools are public (government) and private (religious or independent).

English language courses can be taken for study, travel, immigration or business purposes. There are around 100 private English language centres in Australia. Some universities and vocational institutes also offer English language courses.

TOP

Entry requirements

Australian institutions have two sets of entry requirements: academic and English language skills. If you do not meet the requirements, you may be able to do a bridging or linking course.

Academic entry requirements

Australian institutions set down their own academic requirements for entry. As a general guide:

• Undergraduate courses require the equivalent of an Australian Senior School Certificate of Education (Year 12).
• Postgraduate courses require the completion of a first degree at undergraduate level.
• Vocational study is not necessarily based on academic performance. But some courses may have pre-requisite subjects or ask for demonstrated work experience.
• Schools have varying entry requirements. Some may focus on academic skills, others on sporting, and some may be limited by numbers.

English language skills

To be accepted into a course, you may have to meet the minimum English language requirements as set down by your chosen institution. The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is the only test accepted for student visa purposes. See the Department of Immigration and Citizenship for further information.

If you do not meet the IELTS requirement, it may be possible for you to do additional English study in Australia before starting your course.

TOP