Universities

Australia has 39 universities which are listed on the registers of the Australian Qualifications Framework as well as a number of recognised higher education institutions. Australian universities also have overseas branch campuses, twinning arrangements and exchange programmes for students and staff worldwide. Australia has nearly 4000 formal agreements with universities around the world.

All Australian universities are strictly monitored to maintain high standards in teaching and research. Most Australian universities are located in cities, while some are found in rural environments.

Universities offer courses in a wide range of areas at the following levels:

Academic Year

Most courses start in February, however, some may also start in July and October.

University in Australia is a combination of lectures, tutorials and seminars, as well as individual study in laboratories and libraries. There is a wide range of extra-curricular activities that balance academic life.

Each university has its own entrance requirements for each course offered.

Courses

Duration

Diploma

18-24 months

Advanced Diploma

2 - 3 Years 

Bachelor Degree

Minimum 3 years

Bachelor Degree (Honours)

4 years

Graduate Certificates

6 Months

Graduate Diplomas

12 Months

Masters Degree 

1 - 2 Years

Doctoral Degree 

Typically 3 Years

Check out the Universities in Australia (hyperlink this to List of Universities page)

Vocational Education & Training

Australia's Vocational Education and Training (VET) system is often referred to as Technical and Vocational Education (TVE) in other countries. It delivers training that is both practical and career-oriented. Students can develop their own career path through study and a mix of study and work.

VET courses are provided by both public institutions called TAFE Institutes and private colleges. All institutes and colleges are subject to Government monitoring to ensure high standards.

Australian VET graduates are able to seek employment with the knowledge that their skills are those demanded by employers. Under Australia's national qualifications framework graduates can also progress into higher level courses including entry into universities for Diploma and Bachelor degree courses. 

The qualifications offered at vocational education and training institutions are Certificates I-IV, Diploma and Advanced Diploma.

Tafe

Australian Technical and Further Education (TAFE) is a government owned and operated education system that offers courses in almost every field of study. There are more than 230 government TAFE colleges around Australia that offer courses at certificate, diploma and advanced diploma levels. Many TAFE courses will lead to credit transfer arrangements at Australian universities so you can earn credit towards a bachelors degree. Some TAFE courses are only a few weeks while others may take up to three years to complete. Some TAFE colleges are located in cities, while others are in rural areas. Most courses start in February, however, some may also start in July.

TAFE courses emphasise practical and professional learning that will help you get a job.

English Language Courses General English

Improves practical English skills for work or travel. The courses develop communication skills, particularly speaking and listening skills, in a wide range of formal and informal situations.

English for Academic Purposes

Prepares international students to undertake further studies in an English speaking environment. This course incorporates reading and writing skills for academic purposes, presentation skills and an introduction to research skills.

secondary School Preparation

Examination Preparation

Prepares international students to undertake international examinations such as IELTS, Cambridge and TOEFL.

English for Special Purposes

Provides English language skills in the context of specific environments or vocations. Courses include English for Business, International Relations, the Hospitality and Tourism Industry, Health Professionals, and Computing and Information Technology.

Study Tour Programs

Tailored for individuals or groups and provides the opportunity to learn English while enjoying travelling and exploring the many unique features of Australia. Some centres combine English language classes with sporting activities, such as scuba diving, golf, horse riding and sailing.

In Australia we certify English language proficiency against the major internationally recognised tests including:

English Language Tests

Cambridge Test

Preferred by European students

Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)

Preferred by Asian students not wishing to apply for further study in Australia

International English Language Testing System (IELTS)

most popular with students aiming at further education in Australia, and is now the preferred test for entry into Australian universities as, apart from its academic focus, it is the only test accepted by the Australian Department of Immigration and Multicultural Affairs for student visa purposes