Lana Oconnell
Australia is a popular study destination for international students, offering diverse experiences across its eight states and territories. In 2023, over 786,000 international students enrolled in Australian educational programs, making it the third most popular study abroad destination. However, recent policy updates and a soft cap on international student numbers may impact the ability of international students to study in Australia. The Australian government aims to reduce overall migration to pre-pandemic levels and address record migration levels, which has angered the tertiary education sector. International students must also meet English language proficiency requirements and visa conditions to study in Australia.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| International student market size | Third-largest in the world |
| Number of international students | 717,500 (as of early 2024) |
| Number of international students (2023) | 786,891 |
| Number of international students (2019) | 26.7% average of student body population in Australian universities |
| International education worth (2022-23) | A$36.4bn |
| Cap on new international students (2025) | 270,000 |
| Student visa requirement | For courses longer than 3 months |
| Student visa requirements | English language proficiency, health insurance coverage |
| English language proficiency tests | International English Language Testing System (IELTS), Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) |
| Encouraged destinations for international students | Adelaide, Tasmania, and the Northern Territory |
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What You'll Learn
English language proficiency requirements
Australia is one of the best places to live and study, offering diverse experiences for international students. To study full-time for longer than three months, international students need a student visa. This requires health insurance coverage.
International students applying to Australian universities need to meet English language proficiency requirements. These requirements vary depending on the university and course. However, students can generally expect to provide proof of English language proficiency through recognised English language tests or academic qualifications.
The University of Sydney, for example, accepts the following English language tests:
- IELTS Academic and One Skill Retake
- TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
- Cambridge English C1 Advanced
- Cambridge English C2 Proficiency
For IELTS and PTE tests, only academic tests are accepted, and non-academic tests are not valid. All English tests must be no more than two years old at the start of the course.
International students can also demonstrate English proficiency through recognised academic qualifications. The University of Sydney accepts the following:
- A completed and recognised secondary education qualification undertaken in English, such as the Cambridge GCE Advanced Levels and International Baccalaureate Diploma.
- A completed and recognised foundation or preparation program with the required grades in relevant English subjects.
- At least one year of full-time (or equivalent part-time) study in a recognised bachelor's degree or other approved tertiary qualification in specific English-speaking countries, including Australia, the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and New Zealand.
Additionally, international students applying for a student visa are advised to check with the Department of Home Affairs for separate English requirements that may apply to their visa application.
If students do not meet the English language requirement, they may consider an Academic English and Study Skills Bridging course, such as the one offered by the UWA Centre for English Language Teaching (UWA CELT). This course can help students develop the necessary English skills and academic knowledge to meet the entry requirements for their desired courses.
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Student visa requirements
Australia issues a Student (subclass 500) visa, which permits international students to pursue a wide range of study options. To study full-time in Australia for longer than three months, a student visa is required.
- Evidence of proficiency in the English language. This can be demonstrated by passing a secure English language test, such as the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). The minimum IELTS requirement for a student visa is 6.0, but certain courses may require a higher score.
- Academic certificates and transcripts, as well as proof of identity, such as a passport.
- Evidence of financial ability to cover tuition fees, living expenses, expenses for dependents, and return airfare.
- If the applicant is under 18, additional documents such as parental consent are required.
- Health insurance coverage.
It is recommended that students submit their visa applications at least 8 to 12 weeks before the start of their program. The visa fees start at AUD $1,600 per application, unless exempt.
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Cap on international student numbers
Australia has introduced a cap on the number of new international students it accepts, in an attempt to reduce overall migration to pre-pandemic levels. The country has one of the biggest international student markets in the world, with around 717,500 international students, according to early 2024 figures. The number of new enrolments will be limited to 270,000 for 2025.
Each higher education institution will be given an individual cap, with the biggest cuts affecting vocational education and training providers. The government has accused some providers of “unethical” behaviour, such as accepting students without adequate language skills, offering a poor standard of education, and enrolling people who intend to work instead of study.
The new cap has angered the tertiary education industry, with some universities claiming it will damage the sector and lead to job losses. However, the government maintains that it will improve the quality and longevity of the sector, and that it does not intend to cut the overall number of international students.
International students are still encouraged to study, work, and stay in regional areas of Australia, such as Adelaide and Tasmania, and the Northern Territory. To obtain a student visa, students must meet English language proficiency requirements, which can be demonstrated through tests such as IELTS or TOEFL.
While the cap may cause some universities to reject students, others may not be able to reach their quota. The cap will particularly affect vocational colleges that primarily serve the international student market. The overall impact on international student numbers in Australia remains to be seen, as the cap may not be fully reached.
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Immigration policy
Australia has implemented new immigration policies that will impact international students. The country has introduced a cap on the number of new international students it accepts, aiming to reduce overall migration to pre-pandemic levels. The cap for 2025 is set at 270,000, with individual restrictions for each higher education institution. This decision has been met with criticism from the tertiary education sector, which is one of the biggest in the world.
International students contribute significantly to Australia's economy, with international education worth A$36.4 billion in 2022-23, making it the country's fourth-largest export. The new policies aim to address concerns about unethical practices in the industry, including accepting students with insufficient language skills and those intending to work instead of study.
To obtain a student visa, international students must meet English language proficiency requirements. There are five types of accepted English language tests: International English Language Testing System (IELTS), Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) internet-based test, paper-based TOEFL, and two others. Students assessed as higher immigration risks must still take an English language test and provide proof of proficiency. Additionally, a valid student visa requires health insurance coverage.
The Australian government encourages international students to study, work, and settle in regional areas like Adelaide, Tasmania, and the Northern Territory. This approach aims to protect the local workforce and reduce the number of accepted migrants. The government plans to lower the quota of skilled independent visa entrants and increase the number of skilled regional (provisional) visas.
International students play a significant role in Australia's higher education sector, with the country ranking third in top study abroad destinations. In 2023, 786,891 international students were enrolled, a 27% increase from the previous year. Australia offers a diverse range of experiences across its eight states and territories, attracting students from around the world.
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$10
Coursework and application process
Australia is introducing a cap on the number of new international students it accepts, limiting new enrolments to 270,000 for 2025. This is because the number of international students at universities is now 10% higher than before the COVID-19 pandemic, while the number at private vocational and training providers is up by 50%.
Despite this, Australia still has a diverse range of courses and providers to choose from. To apply, you'll first need to decide which course you want to study. You can use the Study Australia Course Search tool to search for courses, fees, start dates, and duration. You can also search for Australia's education institutions, including schools, English language courses (ELICOS), vocational (VET), and higher education (university) providers.
Once you've decided on a course, you can apply directly to the university from your course page or via an authorized agent. You'll need to pay the application processing fee, and submit official documents, such as academic certificates and transcripts, proof of English language proficiency, and proof of identity. If you're applying as an undergraduate student and haven't completed a recognized qualification, you may need to complete a preparation program to gain entry into your course.
After your application has been assessed, you'll receive a letter of offer and an acceptance form. You'll then need to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. A valid Australian student visa requires health insurance coverage, which you can arrange yourself or through the university.
It's important to note that education agents cannot guarantee a permanent visa or work placement in Australia after graduation. Their role is solely to assist with study applications.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, Australia accepts international students. In 2023, 786,891 international students were enrolled in Australian educational programs, making it the third most popular study abroad destination.
International students in Australia must meet the entry requirements set by their chosen university and the Genuine Student (GS) requirement set by the Australian Government. Students must also prove their English language proficiency and obtain a student visa.
To obtain a student visa for Australia, you must first apply and be accepted into a full-time course that is longer than three months. You will then need to meet the English language proficiency requirements and obtain health insurance coverage. Finally, you will need to apply for a student visa through the Department of Home Affairs.
There are five types of English language proficiency (ELP) tests accepted for student visa applications in Australia: International English Language Testing System (IELTS), Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) internet-based test, paper-based TOEFL test, Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE), and Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic. The minimum scores accepted for each test vary depending on the institution and the student's country of citizenship.
