Study in Australia for Indian Students

Q: Q. Can I bring my family on a student visa?

Ans. Yes, as a Student Visa holder, you can include eligible family members: your spouse or de facto partner; dependent children under 18; or your partner’s dependent children under 18. You must show proof of relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificates). You also need to demonstrate that you have enough funds to support them, meet health and character checks.

Q: Q. Is it possible to study in Australia after completing the 10th grade?

Ans. You cannot directly enroll in a full Bachelor’s level after 10th alone. You’ll usually need to finish 11th & 12th (equivalent senior secondary) to meet undergraduate entry requirements. However, there are pathways or foundation/pre-university programs or vocational courses that may accept you after 10th.

Q: Q. How much is the study gap acceptable in Australia?

Ans. For Bachelor’s (UG), a gap of two to three years is usually acceptable with a good explanation (why the gap, what you did meanwhile). For Master’s (PG), longer gaps (three to five years, sometimes more) are acceptable, especially if you have work experience or additional certificates.

Q: Q. How can I get an education loan to study in Australia?

Ans. Many Indian banks (public and private) provide overseas education loans, especially for countries like Australia. You’ll need proof of admission (offer letter/CoE), cost estimates (tuition + living), and sometimes collateral/security for larger amounts.

Q: Q. Is Australia good for Indian students?

Ans. Yes, Australia is generally a favourable destination for Indian students. There is a large and supportive Indian community, cultural familiarity, and the campuses are multicultural. Universities provide many scholarships, and policies like post‐study work visas allow graduates to stay and work for several years, which helps build work experience.

Q: Q. Is there an age limit for obtaining a student visa in Australia?

Ans. There is no specific age limit for applying for an Australian student visa (subclass 500). However, applicants over 18 must demonstrate genuine intent to study and may need to provide evidence of previous study or work experience. For applicants under 18, additional requirements, such as welfare arrangements, must be met.

Q: Q. What are the requirements for obtaining a student visa in Australia?

Ans. To obtain an Australian student visa, you must provide:Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from an Australian institution.Proof of sufficient funds for tuition and living expenses.English proficiency test results (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL).Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement.Valid passport.Additional documents may be required based on individual circumstances.

Q: Q. How can I obtain permanent residency (PR) in Australia after studying?

Ans. After completing their studies, international graduates can apply for a Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) to gain work experience. Subsequently, they may be eligible to apply for permanent residency through pathways like the Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) or the Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186), depending on occupation, work experience, and points test results.

Q: Q. How much of a study gap is acceptable for studying in Australia?

Ans. Australian institutions generally accept study gaps of up to 1-2 years for undergraduate courses and up to 5 years for postgraduate courses, provided the gap is justified with valid reasons such as work experience, internships, or personal circumstances. Each application is assessed individually, so providing appropriate documentation explaining the gap is important.

Q: Q. Why should I choose Australia for my master's degree?

Ans. Australia offers high-quality education with globally recognized degrees, diverse and inclusive campuses, and strong research opportunities. The country provides a multicultural environment, excellent post-study work opportunities, and a high standard of living. Additionally, Australian universities are renowned for their innovative teaching methods and industry collaborations, enhancing employability prospects for graduates.

Find Your Preferred University

Why Study in Australia?

Australia is one of the world’s top study destinations for international students, and the numbers back it up. For example, in 2022, there were approximately 619,371 international students on student visas in Australia: a growth of over 50% from around 401,798 a decade earlier.

What Exactly Attracts Students?

World-class universities: Many universities rank inside global top lists, which helps when you apply for jobs in Australia or further study worldwide.
Courses built with industry input: In Australia, 43% of all work‑integrated learning (WIL) activities at universities are actual work placements, with another 23% being industry projects, 10% fieldwork, and 13% simulations. Such embedded industry‑experience programs matter.
Work while you study: Student visas allow limited part-time work during term and more hours in breaks, useful for pocket money and gaining local experience.
Scholarships and funding options: Universities, governments, and private bodies offer merit and need-based scholarships that lower costs and improve ROI.

What's the ROI?

Recognised degrees: Australia has ratified the UNESCO Global Convention on the Recognition of Qualifications concerning Higher Education, boosting confidence that Australian qualifications will be recognised abroad. The national system (Australian Qualifications Framework) ensures consistency in degree standards across institutions, which helps overseas employers and universities assess Australian credentials.
Rankings matter for visibility: Several Australian institutions consistently rank in global tables. Higher-ranked programs often offer better industry links and placement support.
Post-study work options support ROI: After graduation, you can apply for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485), which typically lets graduates stay and work in Australia for 2–3 years, depending on the qualification.

This guide is your cheat sheet to studying in Australia. From picking the university and course that actually excite you, to hunting for scholarships, and figuring out how to settle in without feeling lost, we’ve got you covered.

Top Universities and Courses in Australia

Here’s an overview of Australia’s top universities and courses, designed to help students make informed decisions:

Universities in Australia for International Students

University	QS World University Rankings	Location	Key Strengths
University of Sydney	18	Camperdown	Australia’s oldest university; comprehensive academic offerings and high graduate employability across many disciplines.
University of Melbourne	19	Melbourne	Consistently Australia’s top‑ranked institution, known for world‑class research, a strong global alumni network, and leading programmes in business, law, and medicine.
University of New South Wales	20	Kensington	Strong focus on innovation and entrepreneurship with globally ranked engineering and business faculties.
Australian National University	30	Canberra	Research‑led institution recognised for political science, economics, and a high international outlook.
Monash University	36	Melbourne	Extensive industry connections, a large international student cohort, and strong strengths in health sciences, engineering, and business.
University of Queensland	42	Brisbane	Valued for high‑impact research, especially in science, biotechnology, and environmental studies.
University of Western Australia	77	Perth	A strong choice on Australia’s west coast with solid research performance and supportive student services for internationals.
University of Adelaide	82	Adelaide	Excellent research programmes and a lower cost‑of‑living location make it an attractive option for international students.
University of Technology Sydney	96	Ultimo	Modern urban university known for strong links to industry, especially in technology and design disciplines.
University of Wollongong	167	Wollongong	Emerging international reputation, solid range of programmes, and strong student‑support services for overseas students.

Top Courses to Study in Australia

Course Area	Key Specialisations
Information Technology & Computer Science (e.g. BSc/MSc in Computer Science, Data Science, Cybersecurity)	Data analytics, AI/ML, cybersecurity, software engineering
Business & Management (including MBA, specialised Masters)	International Business, Supply Chain, Fintech, Analytics
Engineering (Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Renewable Energy)	Mining/Resources, Environmental Engineering, Mechatronics
Healthcare & Medical Sciences	Nursing, Physiotherapy, Pharmacy, Public Health, Medicine, Allied Health
Accounting & Finance / Commerce	Professional Accounting, Finance, Banking, Audit
Hospitality, Tourism & Event Management	Hotel Management, International Tourism, Event Management
Education & Teaching	Early Childhood, TESOL, Special Education, Primary/Secondary
Environmental Science & Sustainability	Renewable Energy, Conservation, Environmental Management
Creative Arts & Design / Architecture	Graphic Design, Architecture, Film/Media, Fashion Design
Social Sciences, Psychology & Community Services	Psychology, Social Work, Community Development, Counselling

Best Courses aligned with PR and Job Demand

Information & Communication Technology: Frequently on skill lists; employers hire for developers, cloud engineers, and data scientists.
Healthcare (Registered Nurses, Aged Care, Allied Health): High demand in cities and regions; healthcare roles can often support permanent residency pathways.
Engineering (Electrical, Civil, Software): Steady employer demand creates many industry placements.

Cost of Studying in Australia

Studying in Australia costs more than tuition alone; you must plan for fees, everyday living, health cover, transport, and a safe buffer. Here’s a complete breakdown of the cost of studying in Australia:

Tuition Fees by Course Level

Undergraduate: Most international bachelor programmes cost AUD 20,000–45,000 (INR 11,56,911–26,03,049.75) per year. Some professional courses (medicine, dentistry) can cost more.
Postgraduate: Typical master’s programmes fall in the AUD 22,000–50,000 (INR 12,72,602.10–28,92,277.50) per year band. Research degrees and professional master's vary by field and university.
MBA: The tuition for an MBA in Australia for Indian students is wide-ranging. Expect AUD 25,000–60,000+ (INR 14,46,138.75–34,70,733) per year, depending on ranking, length, and mode (full-time vs executive).

Living Expenses

The cost of living in Australia varies a lot by city, neighbourhood, and lifestyle. Here’s a realistic monthly range for students:

City	Typical monthly living cost (AUD)	Typical monthly living cost (INR)
Sydney	1,600 – 2,500	92,552.88 – 1,44,613.88
Melbourne	1,400 – 2,400	80,983.77 – 1,38,829.32
Brisbane	1,300 – 2,000	75,199.21 – 1,15,691.10
Perth	1,200 – 2,000	69,414.66 – 1,15,691.10
Adelaide	1,100 – 1,800	63,630.11 – 1,04,121.99
Canberra	1,300 – 2,200	75,199.21 – 1,27,260.21

Total Budget Required for Indian Students

The Australian government recommends AUD 29,710 (INR 17,18,591.29) as a benchmark for living costs for one year when you apply. Regardless, here’s how much money is required to study in Australia:

Low-cost option (regional/affordable uni): Tuition AUD 15,000 (INR 8,67,683.25) + living AUD 15,000 (INR 8,67,683.25) = ~AUD 30,000 (INR 17,35,366.50).
Mid-range option (major city, many popular courses): Tuition AUD 30,000 (INR 17,35,366.50) + living AUD 25,000 (INR 14,46,138.75) = ~AUD 55,000 (INR 31,81,505.25).
High-cost option (premium university/professional course): Tuition AUD 45,000+ (INR 26,03,049.75+) + living AUD 30,000 (INR 17,35,366.50) = ~AUD 75,000+ (INR 43,38,416.25).

Disclaimer: Exchange rates vary daily. The INR values provided are approximate (as per 2025 rates) and should be checked against the latest rates when planning your finances.

How to Apply for Study Visa in Australia

Getting a student visa is straightforward if you follow the steps and submit the right documents. Here’s how to go about it:

Admission Process

Step 1: Apply to your chosen universities or colleges. Each school has its own deadlines and forms.
Step 2: Receive a Letter of Offer. Accept it and pay the required deposit. This confirms your place.
Step 3: Get your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). You must include the CoE in your visa application.
Step 4: Arrange proof of English proficiency if required (IELTS, PTE, TOEFL, or accepted alternatives). Some pathways accept waivers, too.
Step 5: Buy Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your visa, or show you already have it.
Step 6: Apply for the Student visa (subclass 500) online via ImmiAccount once you have your CoE and documents.

Documents Checklist

Use the Australian Department of Home Affairs document-check tool, then attach any documents listed for your situation. Typical documents include:

Passport (bio page).
CoE.
Letter of Offer and proof of deposit payment.
Academic transcripts and certificates.
Proof of English proficiency (test score).
Evidence of sufficient funds (bank statements, scholarship letter, loan sanction).
OSHC.
Passport-size photos and any police clearance/medical reports, if requested.

Genuine Student (GS) Requirement

From 23 March 2024, the Australian Government replaced the old Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) test with the Genuine Student (GS) requirement for student visas. Here’s what it asks from you:

Why did you choose this course and provider?
How does the course fit your past study, work, and future plans in India?
Evidence that you plan to study, not to use the visa mainly for work or long-term migration.

Intakes in Australia 2026-27

When you plan to study in Australia, knowing the intakes is one of the first practical steps. Most universities organise admissions around three main intakes in Australia: February (Semester 1), July (Semester 2), and November (trimester/minor intake).

February

February is the primary intake for most Australian universities. If you want the widest choice of courses and campuses, this is usually the best bet. Here’s what to expect:

The semester starts late February or early March.
Most undergraduate and postgraduate courses have open seats here. That means more program options.
Application deadlines vary by university, but start your paperwork four to six months before the intake. That gives you time for transcripts, English tests, and a visa application.
If you graduate on time, February often aligns nicely with internship and recruitment cycles in Australia.

July

The July intake in Australia 2025 is the secondary round of admission. It’s a solid fallback if you miss February or need more time to prepare. Here’s what to expect:

The semester starts in mid to late July or early August.
Not every course runs in July. Professional and high-demand programs sometimes have limited seats.

November

November is an additional or minor intake. Only some universities and courses accept new students. Here’s what to expect:

The semester starts around September or November, aligning with what’s commonly known as the fall intake in Australia at certain universities. Some universities treat it as a trimester intake.
Course availability is limited. Universities use this intake to manage demand or for specific short courses.

Study in Australia Without IELTS

You do not automatically need to take the IELTS to apply. Universities and the Australian visa system accept several alternatives.

Accepted Alternative Tests

PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English)
TOEFL iBT
Duolingo English Test
Cambridge English (CAE/CPE)

English Waiver Options for Indian Students

Medium of Instruction (MOI) evidence: If your previous schooling or degree was taught fully in English, many universities accept an MOI letter from your school/college instead of a test.
Prior study in an English-speaking country: If you studied in the US/UK/Canada/NZ (or for a degree delivered by an Australian campus abroad), some universities waive the test.
Pathway/Pre-sessional programmes: If you don’t meet direct entry language requirements, you can enrol in an English pathway course. Complete the pathway, and the university will let you progress to the main degree.

Post-Study Work Permit and PR Pathway

For many students, the dream doesn’t end with graduation; you might want to gain some global work experience or even explore settling in. Here’s how the post study work permit in Australia and the PR pathway help you take that next step:

Post-study Work Permit in Australia

The Temporary Graduate (Subclass 485) visa is the main post-study work route for international students. It lets you live, work, and study in Australia after you finish a CRICOS-registered course.

There are three streams you need to know about: Post-Vocational Education, Post-Higher Education, and a Second Post-Higher Education stream for regional graduates. This visa requires you to meet age, study, and health/character rules.

How to Get PR in Australia After Study

General Skilled Migration: You lodge an Expression of Interest (EOI) in SkillSelect. Points are awarded for age, English, qualifications, work experience, state nomination, and more. The minimum pass mark is 65 points, but actual cut-offs vary. You must have a suitable skills assessment in an eligible occupation.
State/Territory nomination: States can nominate you for the 190 (permanent) or 491 (regional provisional) visas. State nomination gives extra points and can make lower-scoring EOIs competitive. Each state has its own priority occupations and conditions.
Employer-sponsored visas: If an Australian employer wants to sponsor you, employer-sponsored routes can be faster. Some sponsored visas lead to PR after a set period.

Studying in Australia After 12th

Wondering what study in Australia for Indian students after 12th looks like? Here’s exactly what universities expect from applicants:

Eligibility Criteria and Application Tips

Academic eligibility: Successful completion of Class 12 (or equivalent). Universities expect subject-level marks for relevant streams (e.g., Maths/Physics for engineering). If your marks are marginal, consider a foundation or pathway programme (8–12 months).
Documents you must prepare: Class 10 & 12 mark sheets, birth certificate, passport copy, English test score (or pathway offer), Statement of Purpose, letters of recommendation (if required), proof of funds, and financial documents for visa.
Course selection & application tips: Apply to a mix: 1–2 “reach”, 2–3 “good match”, 1–2 “safety” options. Check CRICOS course codes (this matters for visa validity).

Scholarships and Funding Options

Here are the main scholarships in Australia you can use to reduce (or sometimes fully cover) the cost of studying:

Scholarship	Type	Eligible level	Typical coverage
Australia Awards Scholarships	Government (DFAT)	UG/PG/research (applicants from partner & developing countries)	Full tuition, contribution to living expenses (fortnightly CLE), return economy airfare, establishment allowance, OSHC, and possible English/pre-course support.
Destination Australia Scholarships	Government (Department of Education)	Cert IV → Doctorate (domestic & international)	Cash support for living/study costs while studying at an eligible regional campus. AUD 15,000 (INR 8,65,596.60) per student per year (typical; some courses capped differently).
Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarships	Government	Higher Degree by Research: MRes/PhD	Tuition fees (often waived for international HDRs where offered) + living stipend (RTP stipend) and sometimes support for research costs/relocation/OSHC.
University-specific scholarships (merit / need / faculty / targeted country offers)	University-run	UG/PG/HDR depending on scheme	Can be tuition offsets (partial or full), living stipends, tuition refunds, or one-time awards; rules vary by university and award. For instance, Macquarie University offers an Early Acceptance Scholarship for Indian UG/PG students (AUD 10,000/INR 5,77,421.30).

Study in Australia for Free: Strategies

Target fully-funded government or university scholarships: Australia Awards and some university doctoral scholarships can cover full tuition and living costs. These are competitive, but the highest-impact route.
Look for faculty/department research funding: For research degrees, many supervisors have funded projects. If accepted as a funded research candidate, tuition + stipend may be covered.
Stack smaller scholarships and fee waivers: Combine merit scholarships, departmental awards, and early-acceptance discounts. Together, they can remove most or all tuition costs.

Work While You Study & Life in Australia

Thinking about working while studying to gain experience, reduce living costs, and build a local network? Australia makes this possible. Here’s what life looks like as a working student:

Part-time Work Rules

Your visa (subclass 500) lets you work while you study. You can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during a semester.
During official semester breaks, you may work unlimited hours.
If you’re enrolled in a Master’s by Research or a PhD, the work-hour cap does not apply; research students and their families can work unlimited hours.
You cannot start paid work until your course has started.

Support Systems for International Students

International student offices: Every campus runs dedicated orientation weeks, arrival help, and an international student office to help with enrolment, visas, and settling in.
Wellbeing & counselling: Free or heavily subsidised counselling and mental-health services are available at most universities.
Career services & internships: Career centres help with CVs, interview prep, internships, and part-time placements. They also run job fairs and connect students to industry.

Chart Your Future, the Aussie Way

Think of studying in Australia as more than just going abroad; it’s a chance to grow, explore, and truly find your path. The classrooms are world-class, yes, but it’s also about the people you meet, the independence you gain, and the experiences that shape you.

For Indian students, the mix of scholarships, flexible intakes, and work opportunities makes it easier to turn this dream into something real. And if you’re unsure where to begin, Leap Scholar’s experts can walk you through every step, from shortlisting universities to getting your visa sorted.

FAQs

Q. Can I bring my family on a student visa?

Ans. Yes, as a Student Visa holder, you can include eligible family members: your spouse or de facto partner; dependent children under 18; or your partner’s dependent children under 18. You must show proof of relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificates). You also need to demonstrate that you have enough funds to support them, meet health and character checks.

Q. Is it possible to study in Australia after completing the 10th grade?

Ans. You cannot directly enroll in a full Bachelor’s level after 10th alone. You’ll usually need to finish 11th & 12th (equivalent senior secondary) to meet undergraduate entry requirements. However, there are pathways or foundation/pre-university programs or vocational courses that may accept you after 10th.

Q. How much is the study gap acceptable in Australia?

Ans. For Bachelor’s (UG), a gap of two to three years is usually acceptable with a good explanation (why the gap, what you did meanwhile). For Master’s (PG), longer gaps (three to five years, sometimes more) are acceptable, especially if you have work experience or additional certificates.

Q. How can I get an education loan to study in Australia?

Ans. Many Indian banks (public and private) provide overseas education loans, especially for countries like Australia. You’ll need proof of admission (offer letter/CoE), cost estimates (tuition + living), and sometimes collateral/security for larger amounts.

Q. Is Australia good for Indian students?

Ans. Yes, Australia is generally a favourable destination for Indian students. There is a large and supportive Indian community, cultural familiarity, and the campuses are multicultural. Universities provide many scholarships, and policies like post‐study work visas allow graduates to stay and work for several years, which helps build work experience.

Q. Is there an age limit for obtaining a student visa in Australia?

Ans. There is no specific age limit for applying for an Australian student visa (subclass 500). However, applicants over 18 must demonstrate genuine intent to study and may need to provide evidence of previous study or work experience. For applicants under 18, additional requirements, such as welfare arrangements, must be met.

Q. What are the requirements for obtaining a student visa in Australia?

Ans. To obtain an Australian student visa, you must provide:

Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from an Australian institution.
Proof of sufficient funds for tuition and living expenses.
English proficiency test results (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL).
Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).
Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement.
Valid passport.

Additional documents may be required based on individual circumstances.

Q. How can I obtain permanent residency (PR) in Australia after studying?

Ans. After completing their studies, international graduates can apply for a Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) to gain work experience. Subsequently, they may be eligible to apply for permanent residency through pathways like the Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) or the Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186), depending on occupation, work experience, and points test results.

Q. How much of a study gap is acceptable for studying in Australia?

Ans. Australian institutions generally accept study gaps of up to 1-2 years for undergraduate courses and up to 5 years for postgraduate courses, provided the gap is justified with valid reasons such as work experience, internships, or personal circumstances. Each application is assessed individually, so providing appropriate documentation explaining the gap is important.

Q. Why should I choose Australia for my master's degree?

Ans. Australia offers high-quality education with globally recognized degrees, diverse and inclusive campuses, and strong research opportunities. The country provides a multicultural environment, excellent post-study work opportunities, and a high standard of living. Additionally, Australian universities are renowned for their innovative teaching methods and industry collaborations, enhancing employability prospects for graduates.

Q. Is Australia safe for Indian students?

Ans. Australia is considered a safe destination for international students, including those from India. The Australian government and educational institutions prioritize student safety and provide support services. However, like any country, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings, follow local laws, and utilize campus security resources to ensure personal safety.