Australia a top destination for International Students Discover a world-class education system, globally ranked universities, and a rich, welcoming culture.

1. Overview of Studying in Australia

Australia has long been a dream destination for millions of international students, including many from Vietnam. Known for its stunning natural landscapes and high quality of life, Australia also boasts one of the best education systems in the world.

A Globally Respected Education System

Australia implements the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) – a unified and strict system that ensures quality from secondary to postgraduate education. According to the QS World University Rankings 2025, Australian universities are ranked among the top 15 globally.

World Class Universities with Reasonable Tuition

Compared to the US or UK, studying in Australia is more affordable, yet you’ll gain access to high-quality teaching and research. Top institutions like the University of Melbourne and UNSW—members of the Group of Eight (Go8)—are renowned for academic excellence, modern facilities, and generous scholarship opportunities.

Safe, Liveable Cities

Australia is one of the world’s safest and most stable countries, with low crime rates and a robust social system. Cities like Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane consistently rank among the most liveable cities globally for their air quality, healthcare, infrastructure, and cultural diversity.

2. Australia’s Education System

Primary and Secondary School

International students aged 5 and above can enroll in Australia’s public or private schools.

Quality is consistent across the country, although tuition and admission requirements may vary by state and school.

• Duaration: 13 Years toal ( Kindergarten to Year 12 )
• Semesters: 4 Terms Per Year
• Start Date: Late January or Early February Annually

English Courses (ELICOS)

ELICOS stands for English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students. These courses meet strict national standards and are designed for various goals: academic, conversational, or exam preparation.

• Duration: 5 to 60 Weeks
• Flexible Intakes throughout the year

Pathway & Foundation Programs

For students who don’t meet direct university entry requirements, Foundation or Pathway programs offer academic preparation, English training, and in some cases, credit transfer.

• Duration: Typically 1 Year
• Start Dates: Mainly February, but may vary

Vocational Education and Training (VET)

VET programs are offered by TAFE institutes (public) and accredited private RTOs. They focus on practical, job-ready skills for over 500 occupations, often including internships or work placements.

• Duration: 1 to 4 years
• Start Date: Usually January/February

Higher Education (University)

• Undergraduate (Bachelor):

Duration: 3 years (4 with Honours)

Start: March or mid-year, depending on course

• Postgraduate (Master’s):

Duration: 1 to 2 years

Start: Usually March

• Doctoral (PhD):

Duration: 3–4 years

Continuous research-based enrollment (no fixed terms)

3. Entry Requirements for Studying in Australia

Academic Requirements:

Education Level	Academic Requirement
High School	Completion of Grade 9–10 (varies by program)
Foundation	Completion of Grade 11 or 12, GPA ≥ 6.5
VET	High school graduate, may require interview
Undergraduate	High school graduate, GPA ≥ 7.0
Master’s	Bachelor’s degree, work experience (some courses)
PhD	Master’s degree, clear research proposal

English Requirements:

Level of Study	IELTS	TOEFL iBT	PTE Academic
Foundation	5.0–5.5	50–60	42–46
Undergraduate	6.0–6.5	70–85	50–58
Postgraduate	6.5–7.0	90–100	58–65

If you do not meet these scores, ELICOS English courses can help you prepare.

Financial Requirements:

You must show proof of sufficient funds to cover tuition, living costs, and other expenses.

• Tuition: AUD 20,000 – 45,000 per year
• Living costs: ~AUD 24,505 per year
• Additional: Airfare, OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover), visa fees

Student Visa (Subclass 500)

Required documents include:

• Medical check-up
• Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)
• OSHC health insurance
• Proof of finances, academic background, English proficiency
• Study plan
• Clean criminal record

Supporting Factors for a Strong Application:

• Good academic performance
• Clear study and career goals
• Extracurricular achievements
• Family sponsorship in Australia (if applicable)