Applications in English
Australia
Research funding, post-study work rights, diverse culture
- $1,800
- Average per month
- Yes
- Language test required
- 2
- Intakes a year
- February, July
- Intake months
Overview
Australia is known for high-quality research universities and an open immigration approach for skilled graduates. The country has a large and growing African student community, particularly from Nigeria, Ghana, and Zimbabwe. Geographic distance from Africa is the main barrier.
Scholarship culture
The Australia Awards (government-funded) is the primary scholarship for students from developing countries including many African nations. It's highly competitive and covers tuition, living, and flights. University-specific awards and research scholarships (for PhDs) are also available.
Key scholarships
- Australia Awards
- RTP (Research Training Program for PhD)
- University of Melbourne Graduate Research Scholarships
- Destination Australia
Cost of living
Sydney and Melbourne: AUD $2,000–$2,800/month. Brisbane, Perth, and Adelaide are 20–30% cheaper. Student work rights allow up to 48 hours per fortnight during semester.
Visa process
Student visa (subclass 500). Apply via ImmiAccount online. Usually takes 4–6 weeks. Requires CoE (Confirmation of Enrolment), OSHC (health cover), proof of English, and proof of financial capacity (AUD $24,505/year). Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement required.
Required language tests
- IELTS Academic (min 6.5)
- TOEFL iBT (min 79)
- PTE Academic
Top universities
- Australian National University
- University of Melbourne
- University of Sydney
- University of Queensland
- Monash University
- UNSW Sydney
Best for
- Agriculture & Veterinary Science
- Mining Engineering
- Environmental Science
- Medicine
- Business
Honest assessment
Why students choose Australia
- Australia Awards fully funded for eligible African countries
- Post-Study Work Stream visa (2–4 years after graduation)
- High quality of life, safety, outdoor culture
- Strong research funding for PhDs
- English instruction
What to prepare for
- Very far from Africa — flights are long and expensive
- High tuition: AUD $22,000–$50,000/year for international students
- Cost of living rising sharply
- Bushfires and extreme heat in some regions