Studying in Australia
About Australia
Australia is an incredible country to live and travel in. It is a nation diverse in its culture and environment. The people are friendly and relaxed. Some of Australia's most famous tourist natural attractions include the Great Barrier Reef; Uluru; Kakadu National Park; the Daintree rainforests, and many more.
About Melbourne
Melbourne is the capital of the state of Victoria. It is situated near the Yarra River and around Port Phillip Bay with its beautiful beaches and water sports facilities. It is a beautiful, spacious city with all the parks, gardens, sporting venues and scenic places that Australian space and natural resources allow. One quarter of Melbourne's population was born overseas making it one of the world's most multicultural cities. There are now people from 140 nations living harmoniously together. This broad ethnic mix has brought many benefits to the city including a wide range of cuisines and over 2,300 elegant restaurants, bistros and cafes. Melbourne has an excellent public transport system with trams, trains and buses providing an extensive network throughout the city and suburbs.
Why study in Melbourne?
Students from all over the world come to Australia to take advantage of our world-class education and enjoy our friendly hospitality and cultural diversity. Australia has become a top preference for parents to send their children to obtain a high standard of education and ranks highly on the list in safety, affordability, geographically proximate compared to European countries, for instance.
There are more than 50,000 overseas students studying in Australia and each year approximately 15,000 students from the Asia-Pacific region arrive in Australia to continue their education. They have chosen Australia for several reasons:
- Australia has a high-quality education system.
- Australia offers traditional education in reputable schools, colleges and universities.
- Australian universities, colleges and schools have established networks of support to help overseas students.
- The Australian education system includes informality and accessibility of academic staff, the availability of computers, small group classes and close supervision.
- Living costs and tuition costs compare well with other countries and most overseas students are permitted to work part time.
- Australia is a safe, stable country with a pleasant climate.
- Australia welcomes overseas students.
Cost of living
In addition to paying the full cost of their courses, full-fee students must meet all their own travel and living expenses, plus any administrative charges payable for study along with the cost of books. A single person studying in Australia will need A$21,041 each year in addition to the tuition fees. This amount also depends on the kind of accommodation a student chooses. For a married person with a dependent, he/she will need another A$7,362 each year. If there are children, the living expenses needed will be approximately A$3,152 for each child.
Clean, safe, cosmopolitan
Australia has low crime rates and strict gun control laws providing a safe environment in which to learn and travel. With one of the highest standards of living in the world, Australia offers modern transport systems, convenient telecommunications, cosmopolitan shopping complexes and excellent health services. Visitors from many parts of the world are attracted by Australia's spectacular natural environment and the distinctive personality and friendliness of the Australian people. Australia is rich in the arts and is keen to preserve and display its diverse cultural heritage. Australians are also environmentally conscious and keen to preserve the country's natural beauty and scenery.
Healthcare
Australia has a very good healthcare system. All Australians pay a Medicare levy (additional tax) to fund the public health system and ensure everyone gets access to public system doctors, hospitals and other healthcare services. People who pay extra into a private health insurance fund receive certain privileges when they use private health care services. As well as the usual services available in just about any Australian suburb or town, most Australian institutions also provide special healthcare services and advice for students. International students studying in Australia are required to have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of their student visa. International students may choose from four OSHC providers. Check the Department of Health website for details: