2. 1. Recognition
The Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) is a national policy that
ensures there is a uniform and recognized progression for study. The
framework was introduced in 1995 and includes secondary school,
higher education, and vocational education and training (VET) courses.
The AQF establishes pathways between qualifications and sets the
standard for learning outcomes at each level, so not matter what you
study, you can be sure you will gain formal recognition.
3. 2. Quality
The Education Services for Overseas Students Act was introduced in
2000 and is designed to protect standards for international students
studying in Australia. This piece of legislation, amended in 2010,
delivers regulatory requirements for education and training
institutions through the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and
Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS).
In a 2012 survey co-conducted by the Australian Government and top
education groups, 86 per cent of international students responded
that they were âsatisfiedâ or âvery satisfiedâ with their experiences
studying in Australia.
4. 3. World-class research
For a country with a relatively small population, Australia has a
history of punching above its weight when it comes to producing
outstanding research. Many Australian discoveries and developments
have led to tangible benefits around the world. This comes as a result
of heavy investment in research, including over AU$140 million to be
spent on Federation Fellowships over the next five years.
High profile discoveries to come out of Australia include penicillin,
WiFi, the bionic ear, the ultrasound machine and the flight data
recorder (black box).
5. 4. Foundation studies
Thereâs no need to worry if youâre looking to study in Australia and
you donât meet the academic requirements. Many institutions will
offer foundation studies â one-year preparatory courses designed to
provide the skills and qualifications needed to continue higher
education in Australia.
Completing foundation studies gives students the equivalent of an
Australian high school graduation (year 12). While courses are taught
in English, they often include English tutoring where required and are
focused on preparing students for university study.
6. 5. Student visa perks
Most student visas will permit you to work up to 40 hours per
fortnight while your course is in session, and unlimited hours during
course breaks. Not only can you work to help cover your costs while
studying in Australia but you can gain contacts and spend some of
your earnings checking out some of the great destinations the
country has to offer.
Australia is a large country and it boasts a number of natural
wonders, 17 of which are classified as UNESCO World Heritage sites.
These destinations include the Great Barrier Reef, Kakadu National
Park, Lord Howe Island Group, the Tasmanian Wilderness, Fraser
Island and the Sydney Opera House.
7. 6. Job opportunities
While the UK closes doors for doctors and the US focuses more on IT
professionals, international students have started to hit upon
Australia which offers more job facilities in multiple disciplines. Be it
in agriculture or aeronautics, accounts or actuaries, Australia offer
work permits to international students like none other.
8. 7. Accommodation
Australia welcomes students from all over the world and offers a
range of living options to suit all kinds of needs. Depending on the
length of your stay, where youâre studying and your personal
preference, you can choose between short-term accommodation,
rental properties, on campus accommodation and home stays.
You can also feel secure in the knowledge that you are legally
protected by the Australian governmentâs fair trading agency
wherever you choose to live.
Regardless of what level of study you are looking at, or whether you
want to experience regional Australia or one of its capital cities, there
is an international study option thatâs just right for you.
9. 8. Absorbing Australian
Culture
Australia as a nation has a culture which fosters creativity, innovation
and practicality. A lot of international students find that our
classrooms are filled with a lot more discussion compared to
textbook learning, both at individual and group level. What this means
is that Australian classrooms are engaging, active and lively and allow
students to not only absorb information, but really learn how to
interact with it at a deeper level. In practice, this means that
Australian students are better equipped to go out into the workforce
and really apply what they have learnt under a variety of
environmental constraints.
10. 9. Possibility of more
scholarships
Australia being comparatively new in terms of attracting foreign
students offers more scholarship opportunities compared to the
United States or the UK. It, however, needs to be kept in mind that
Australia is a less populated yet vast country which can fit in
employment opportunities at a rate faster than any other part of the
world.
11. 10. More research
opportunities
Australia offers research opportunities to eligible professionals
willing to enhance their career. The biggest advantage is Australia
offers country-based research that is spread all over the continent.
Selection for these highly regarded research opportunities are based
on merit and is highly competitive, and a proven track record of
academic excellence is a pre-requisite.
Despite a decrease in the number and proportion of student traffic,
the British and the American officials seem reluctant to take a note of
it although university officials project the dip in revenue. Slowly the
wheel is turning full circle. Many a change will define the future of
academic destinations for international students -- the pattern right
now strongly directs towards the continent of Australia.