About Australia
Australia is situated in the southern Hemisphere between Indian and Pacific Oceans. The total land area is about eight million square kilometers. Most of its 18 million people live in coastal cities and regional centers. Australia is an English speaking country. 25 percent of its population are born overseas.
Australia is one of the best harmonious multicultural societies in the world. Communities of various sizes throughout the nation represent people from every nation and ethnic group of the world. Australia offers a dynamic, multicultural and supportive environment for international students. Australians are open and friendly people. The healthy, safe environment combined with the excitement of cosmopolitan cities makes Australia a favorite place for students and tourists to explore its unspoiled environment.
Climate in Australia is exact opposite to the Northern Hemisphere; Summer is December to February, Autumn is March to May, Winter is June to August and Spring is September to November. In the mainland the temperature rarely drop below zero and seasonal variations are not extreme. Climate is very tropical with heavy rainfalls in the northern regions. In summer light clothing is usually sufficient though a sweater or a light jacket can be necessary in the evenings. In the winter months in Southern Australia warm clothes including overcoat or jacket are necessary.
Australia is proud of the quality of its education and training. In the past 10 years, more than one million students from overseas have studied in Australia.
The internationalization of Australian education and training has been occurring at a rapid rate. Linkages between Australian and overseas schools, universities and colleges, and linkages and exchange between individual students and staff have blossomed .The Australian Department of Education, Science & Training is represented in India at the Australian High Commission in New Delhi. “Our role is to enhance the international education links between Australia & India and provide information about the Australian education system to students interested in the opportunities available in Australia.
Australia has an internationally recognized university system offering world class education and research opportunities. Australian institutions offer both undergraduate and postgraduate courses in arts, sciences, computing, engineering, health sciences, business, law, economics and agriculture.
The number of international students in Australia are in the region of about 250 thousands. India ranks among the top ten major source countries along with Korea, Indonesia, Malaysia, Japan, Singapore, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Thailand, and USA in terms of number of international students in Australia for higher studies in recent years. The figure of 1100 students in 1994 has gone up to 10,000 as on July 2004. According to available trends this number is likely to cross the 40,000 mark by the end of 2007.
Higher education (47%) and Vocational education (51%) are more popular with Indian students. Business studies are the most sought after courses followed by Science subject among Indian students. Australia is becoming a major destination for Indian Students compared to other countries in recent years.
The academic year in most of the Australian Universities is divided into two semesters: February - June and July - November. There are semester breaks in each semester. The majority of universities commence intakes in February and mid year intakes in July. There are other private and public funded universities which operate on trimester basis with intakes in January, May and September.
Tuition fee varies from course to course and between institutions. Depending upon the course of study, it can range from A$8000 to A$20,000.PA. International students have to pay the full cost of their education unless scholarships or exchange program covers them.
Living expenses for single students range between A$6000 to A$12000 a year. This covers accommodation, food, transport, clothing and entertainment. Married students would need about A$3000 more a year for a spouse and A$2000 more for each child. Air fares, course related costs such as health insurance, costs of large non-essential items such as television, video or car are not included in the above figures.
Many educational institutions have on campus accommodation generally known as halls of residence and they do help with accommodation needs. There is a high demand for on campus accommodation, therefore one has to exercise their choice earlier to the institution for better chances of success. At a residential hall students usually have a room of their own and share bathrooms, laundries and recreational facilities. Most halls do provide meals and some offer kitchen facilities where students can cook and store food. Many students rent an apartment or a house, which they share with other students. Rents vary depending upon the location, size and facilities provided.
International students must provide evidence of their English language proficiency to study in an Australian Institution. All international students must apply for a student visa to enter Australia. Pre-conditions for studying in Australia are:
- Enrolment in full-time study in a course registered by the Government .
- Comprehension of English appropriate for the purpose of course of study.
- Genuine intention to undertake studies and abide by visa conditions.
- Financial capacity to meet fees and living expenses.
- Adequate arrangements in Australia for health insurance for the full duration of stay
Most Australian Institution actively promote their international programs by holding seminars and directly meeting the prospective students at the major cities of India every year. Most of the institutions also have authorized representatives to provide service to students with regard to admission and visa formalities. Speak to our counsellors for more information on Australian Education or to apply in Australian University or College.