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Why Study in Australia?

Australia is a top destination for students from Sri Lanka who wish to study abroad and eventually settle down. Many Sri Lankan students prefer to study in Australia due to its prestigious universities and international perspective, which provide a wide range of subjects. Now, you have the opportunity to do the same. Pursuing your education in Australia will offer you the best learning experience possible. The Australian education system is unique and attracts students from around the world. Additionally, the language of instruction is English, making it easier for many Sri Lankan students to learn. Here are the primary reasons why Australia is a preferred choice for education.

7
Australia has seven of the world's most student-friendly cities.
8 /100
Australia is home to eight of the world's top 100 universities.
22,000+
Australia has 1,100+ institutions offering 22,000+ courses.
Global Recognition
Australian degrees and qualifications are recognized and respected internationally.
Friendly People
Australians are known for being friendly and welcoming, and this extends to international students.
Low Cost
Australia has lower living costs than the UK and USA.
Up to 40 Hours
International students in Australia are allowed to work part-time up to 40 hours per fortnight while studying, and full-time during semester breaks.
Extensive Student Services
Universities in Australia provide a wide range of support services for international students, including academic support, counseling, and career advice.

Cost of Studying in Australia

Australia offers a variety of degree programs tailored to the needs of Sri Lankan students. With numerous scholarships available, the process of studying is made more accessible. The costs of accommodation, groceries, and transportation are also relatively low. Thus, Australia is an attractive destination for education.

Additionally, Sri Lankan students can obtain work permits while studying. Tuition fees for bachelor’s degrees start at AUD 20,000, while master’s degrees can cost up to AUD 25,000. Doctoral programs are generally more expensive, at around AUD 32,000; however, various scholarships are available to help offset these costs. Overall, the cost of studying in Australia is among the lowest compared to many other countries worldwide.

Bachelor's
20,000 - 35,000 AUD
Master's
25,000 - 40,000 AUD
Doctorate's
18,000 - 32,000 AUD

Cost of Living in Australia

Costs are often a concern for Sri Lankan students studying abroad. However, the cost of living in Australia is generally lower compared to many other countries worldwide. Aside from tuition fees, accommodation is often the most significant expense. Fortunately, Sri Lankan communities provide considerable support in various ways. You will find fellow countrymen both on your campus and in the job sector, which can help you save money during your studies. Some universities even offer on-campus accommodation, making the process simpler. 

Transportation costs should also be considered, but public transportation is usually the most economical option. Cooking at home can lead to significant savings on food expenses. For books and other study materials, utilizing libraries is often the best choice.

Expense TypeAverage Monthly Cost (AUD) (approx.)
AccommodationAUD 1,000 - 1,700
FoodAUD 300 - 600
TransportationAUD 100 - 150
MiscellaneousAUD 200 - 400
cost of living

Admission Requirements for Studying in Australia

Applying to universities in Australia is quite similar to the application processes in many other countries, but the admission requirements are generally less stringent. 

First, you need to provide proof of your residency in Sri Lanka, and a valid passport is essential for submission. Next, you must include your certificates and transcripts from your previous studies. Additionally, you will need to write a Statement of Purpose (SOP), in which you outline your goals and plans for your education.

English proficiency tests are also required, with specific requirements varying by subject and university. You can choose from different tests, such as IELTS (with a minimum overall band score of 6.5) or PTE (with an overall score of 58), as specified by the university. Finally, ensure that you submit an updated CV.

  • Academic transcripts and certificates
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Letters of Recommendation
  • Updated Curriculum Vitae
  • Proof of English language proficiency

Language Requirements

English is not the native language in Sri Lanka. Therefore, Sri Lankan students must present a language proficiency test when applying to Australian universities. To gain admission to Australia, you must submit proof of language proficiency. Most universities allow students to choose from various language tests, including the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) and the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). The Pearson Test of English (PTE) and Cambridge English: Advanced tests are also accepted. Generally, a score of 6.5 on the IELTS or 79 on the TOEFL is required, although these requirements may vary depending on the chosen subjects. These English language tests are specifically designed for countries where English is not the native language. If you are interested in applying to Australia, it is advisable to take the language tests as early as possible.

English Language TestRequired Score
IELTSMinimum overall band of 6.5 (with no individual band below 6.0)
TOEFLTOEFL (Internet Based Test - IBT): minimum overall score of 79 (with minimum of 13 in Reading, 12 in Listening, 18 in Speaking and 21 in Writing)
PTEoverall score of 58 (with no communication band less than 50)
CAE(C1 Advanced Exam)You will require a minimum score of 169-176 while scoring a minimum of 169 in every section

Visa Requirements

The visa application procedure normally takes 17 to 32 days and could occasionally go on for three months. So we suggest that you begin early. Apply at least three months before you want to study in Australia.
Australia Study Visa requirements:

  1. Valid Passport
  2. Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from your chosen university
  3. GS Statement (Genuine Student Statement)
  4. Proof of sufficient funds
  5. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
  6. English proficiency proof
  7. Recent passport-sized photographs
  8. Statement of Purpose (SOP)
  9. Academic and work experience documents

Intakes in Australia

In Australia, universities have multiple intake periods throughout the year. Generally, Sri Lankan students can choose from three main intakes. 

The first is the February intake, for which you should apply during the October and November sessions of the previous year. If you miss this intake, you can apply for the July intake, which begins in May. Applications for the July intake can be submitted during May and June.

There is also a November intake, and for this, you must start your application in September. Depending on your interests and chosen subjects, you can select any of these intakes to begin your application process in Australia. Ensure you have all the necessary documents ready before starting your application.

IntakesApplication Timeline
February
(Term 1)
October - November
July
(Term 2)
May - June
November
(Term 3)
September(For some universities and selected courses)

Cities in Australia

Australia is a large country with a significant number of universities. However, only a few key cities host the majority of these institutions. We typically recommend seven cities to our students, as they are expansive and provide a student-friendly environment for individuals from all over the world. As a Sri Lankan student, you will have the opportunity to find part-time jobs and connect with an international community in these cities. New South Wales is home to approximately 19 universities, including renowned institutions such as the University of Sydney and the University of Technology, Sydney (formerly Macquarie University). Queensland boasts nearly twelve universities, while Victoria, Tasmania, the Northern Territory, and South Australia also host some of the country’s largest universities.

State / TerritoryNo of UniversitiesUniversity List
Tasmania1University of Tasmania
Northern Territory1Charles Darwin University
Australian Capital Territory5Australian Catholic University
University of Canberra
Charles Sturt University
University of New South Wales
Australian National University
Victoria13Victoria University
Federation University
RMIT University
Deakin University
Swinburne University of Technology
Monash University
University of Melbourne
La Trobe University
University of Divinity
Australian Catholic University
Charles Sturt University
CQUniversity
Torrens University
Queensland12University of Queensland
James Cook University
CQUniversity
University of Sunshine Coast
Griffith University
Queensland University of Technology
University of Southern Queensland
Southern Cross University
Australian Catholic University
Torrens University
Victoria University
Bond University
New South Wales19Southern Cross University
University of New England
University of Newcastle
Charles Darwin University
Charles Sturt University
Australian Catholic University
Macquarie University
University of New South Wales
University of Sydney
La Trobe University
Swinburne University of Technology
University of Technology, Sydney
CQUniversity
Torrens University
Western Sydney University
University of Notre Dame Australia
University of Tasmania
Victoria University
University of Wollongong
South Australia7Carnegie Mellon University
Flinders University
University of Adelaide
University College London
University of South Australia
CQUniversity
Torrens University

Post-Study Work Opportunities in Australia

Sri Lankan students have the opportunity to apply for work in Australia after completing their graduation. A temporary graduate visa is available for students who have completed their studies in Australia. This visa enables students to seek suitable employment in the country, allowing them to apply for a work visa and become permanent residents. The Australian job market offers a variety of opportunities, particularly for graduates in healthcare, medicine, and engineering, who can expect to earn around AUD 65,000 per year. Many Sri Lankan students choose STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) majors, which positions them well for careers in the thriving IT sector. Additionally, the Australian business sector offers accessible job opportunities with a wide range of salaries.

Field of WorkAverage Salary (AUD/Year) (approx.)
IT & TechAUD 60,000 - 80,000
Business & ManagementAUD 65,000 - 85,000
Health & MedicineAUD 70,000 - 90,000
EngineeringAUD 65,000 - 88,000

Scholarships in Australia

Australia offers a range of scholarships to help students cover their tuition fees, making it an attractive destination for international students. One type of scholarship is provided by universities, which you can receive when you apply for a specific program. Additionally, the Australian government extends scholarships to students from Asia, the Middle East, and the Pacific. As a Sri Lankan student, you are eligible for these scholarships. Australian scholarships can cover the full cost of tuition and living expenses, while university scholarships typically only cover a portion of tuition fees and may have limits on the amount. It’s essential to monitor scholarship amounts and key application deadlines.

ScholarshipAdministered ByEligibilityBenefits
Australia AwardsAustralian GovernmentStudents from Asia, Pacific, Middle EastFull tuition, living expenses
UNSW International ScholarshipsUniversity of New South WalesHigh academic achieversPartial tuition fee coverage
Monash International Merit ScholarshipMonash UniversityOutstanding international studentsUp to AUD 10,000 for course duration

Top Courses to Study in Australia

Australia is a large country with a significant number of universities. However, only a few key cities host the majority of these institutions. We typically recommend seven cities to our students, as they are expansive and provide a student-friendly environment for individuals from all over the world. As a Sri Lankan student, you will have the opportunity to find part-time jobs and connect with an international community in these cities. New South Wales is home to approximately 19 universities, including renowned institutions such as the University of Sydney and the University of Technology, Sydney (formerly Macquarie University). Queensland boasts nearly twelve universities, while Victoria, Tasmania, the Northern Territory, and South Australia also host some of the country’s largest universities.

Icon Engineering
Icon Business and Management
Icon Information Technology
Icon Environmental Sciences
Icon Tourism and Hospitality
Icon Nursing
Icon STEM Courses
Icon Architecture & Construction
Icon Computer Science
Icon Commercial Pilot
Icon Public Health
Icon Juris Doctor
Icon Culinary Arts

University

Universities Pathways

Private College / Higher Education

TAFES

Frequently Asked Questions
What are the basic admission requirements for studying in Australia?
To study in an Australian university as a Sri Lankan student, you first have to meet the educational requirements (grades and research experience). You also need to achieve a required score on your English tests (e.g., IELTS, PTE, TOEFL).
To study in Australia as an international student, you must cover both tuition fees and living costs. The cost can be around AUD 40,000 for master’s courses. However, the costs will vary depending on the subject you choose.
The English language test requirements in Australia vary according to the university you choose and the course. For IELTS, you will need a score of 6.5, and for TOEFL, you need a score of 79. Fifty-eight marks are perfect for PTE.
There are three intakes for Sri Lankan students to apply to Australian universities. You can start in May for the July intake. There are also February and November intakes, where applications are accepted in October and September, respectively.
The Australia Awards are available for international students studying in Australia. The government grants this scholarship, covering full tuition fees and living expenses.
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