Quick Facts
- Location: Australia is an island nation that is located in the southern part of the Pacific Ocean. Australia is located to the southeast of the mainland Asian continent and to the southwest of North America.
Capital: Canberra
Major Cities/ Counties: Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth, Adelaide
Main Language: English
Climate: The climate varies widely due to its large geographical size, but by far the largest part of Australia is desert or semi-arid. Only the south-east and south-west corners have a temperate climate and moderately fertile soil. The northern part of the country has a tropical climate, varied between tropical rainforests, grasslands and part desert.
Economy
GDP: 1.205 trillion USD (2016)
Currency: Australian dollar (AUD)
Government: The Australian Constitution creates a democratic legislature, the dual Parliament of Australia which consists of the Queen of Australia, and two houses of parliament, the Senate and the House of Representatives. The Constitution provides for the Commonwealth Government’s legislative powers and allocates certain powers and responsibilities (known as “heads of power”) to the Commonwealth government. All remaining responsibilities are retained by the six States (previously separate colonies). Further, each State has its own constitution, so that Australia has seven sovereign Parliaments, none of which can encroach on the functions of any other.
Area: 7.692 million km²
Distance from India: 10- 12 hours approx.
Population: 24.13 million (2016)
Time Zone: UTC + 9.30 (Australian Central Time Zone)
- Why Study in Australia?
- Australia is currently the third most popular destination for international students in the English-speaking world.
- For a country with a relatively small number of universities, Australia offers truly world-class education and regularly features in global rankings. Eight Australian universities placed in the top 100 in the latest QS World University Rankings
- Australia’s standard of living is amongst the highest in the world. International students are able to work part-time while they study, allowing them to offset their living costs. There is also the possibility of scholarships, which can help to lower the cost of studying in Australia for international students.
- Institutions in Australia offer a wide variety of courses and degrees, so international students can easily find the school and field that are right for them.
- One of the most appealing aspects of the country for international students is the quality of scientific research. Australia is at the forefront of new technology and innovations.
- Australian qualifications are recognized by employers and leading educational institutions in many countries around the world. Moreover, most courses and training undertaken by international students in Australia are covered by the Australian Qualification Framework (AQF). It is a system of learning which is authorized by the Australian government.
- Australia offers job facilities in multiple disciplines. Be it in agriculture or aeronautics, accounts, or actuaries, Australia offers work permits to international students like none other.
- Living in Australia
Traditions & Culture: Australian culture is as broad and varied as the country’s landscape. Australia is multicultural and multiracial and this is reflected in the country’s food, lifestyle and cultural practices and experience. Australia has an important heritage from its indigenous people, which plays a defining role in the cultural landscape. This diversity of influences creates a cultural environment in Australia that is lively, energized, innovative and outward-looking.
Food: The meat pies and pasties had their connection to what was considered the staple foods of the 1800s:
- beef, pork or mutton (the meat of adult sheep)
- flour, usually made into bread or damper, a dense, thick bread
- tea, considered a necessity, even when other items were scarce.
Safety: While Australia is generally a safe place to live and study, it is still important that you take precautions to reduce the chance of an incident occurring. The 2011 OECD Better Life Index rated Australia 9.3 out of 10 for safety, one of the highest ratings awarded to any country. Following your common sense and best practices will ensure you remain safe and healthy, whether you are handling emergencies, personal and home safety, or natural elements such as sun, water, and fire.
Welfare: Universities provide free and confidential support and assistance to help students develop practical skills to better manage time, money and personal issues. Officials help students develop strategies to concentrate on studies and get the most out of university life.
Health: Healthcare in Australia has been steadily improving over the last ten years. Visitors in Australia under a student visa are required to take out Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) during their stay.
Transport: The transport options available in Australia include buses, trains, trams and ferries. Your access to these transport services will vary depending on where you live. You will also be able to access private and public car services from taxis to hired limousines, available to take you from door to door. If you hold a current drivers license in your home country, you might be able to drive in Australia without sitting for any further driving tests. But remember that many state and territory governments require you to get an Australian drivers license if you are there for more than three months.
- Cost
Under Graduate Studies: A$ 20,000 – A$ 30,000 per year
Post Graduate Studies: A$ 22,000 – A$ 30,000 per year
Living Expenses as per the Australia High Commission visa guidelines: 19,830 A$ per year
- Visa Processing
Basics:
Visa Requirement
- Good academics
- IELTS Score as suggested in the English language requirement
- Finances to support education as per the living expenses guideline given under living expenses
- Genuine Intentions to Study in Australia
Visa processing time for a visa varies from 4 – 12 working weeks.
Dependents information: A student visa would usually allow you to take your family members as dependents on your student visa. This is defined as:
- A spouse or partner (including same-sex partners) who you have been living with for 12 months.
- Your, or your partner’s children, under 18 or who are still in continuous education (i.e. studying A-levels).