Are you a Sri Lankan student aspiring to pursue higher education abroad? Look no further than Australia, a vibrant and diverse country with an excellent academic environment and many opportunities for international students. With its world-renowned universities, stunning landscapes, multicultural society, and globally recognised qualifications, Australia has become a preferred destination for Sri Lankan students seeking a truly transformative educational experience.
In this blog, we will explore why studying in Australia can be a life-changing decision for Sri Lankan students. We will explore the academic programs, cultural experiences, financial considerations, and support services available, providing you with valuable insights and guidance to help you make informed decisions about your educational journey.
Why Study in Australia as a Sri Lankan Student?
- Renowned Universities: Australia boasts top-ranked universities like the University of Melbourne, Australian National University, and the University of Sydney.
- Outstanding Education System: Australia's education system is highly regarded, offering over 22,000 courses and ranking ninth globally.
- Student-Friendly Cities: Experience the magic of cities like Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane, known for their vibrant student life and high-quality living.
- Wide Range of Courses: From Engineering to Humanities, Australian universities offer diverse programs to suit every student's interests.
- Research Excellence: Australia has produced 16 Nobel Laureates, highlighting its commitment to research-oriented education.
- By studying in Australia, Sri Lankan students gain access to prestigious universities, a world-class education system, student-friendly cities, various courses, and a rich research culture. It's an opportunity for personal growth and a transformative educational journey.
Education System for International Students in Australia
Australia, renowned as a global education destination, invest significantly in maintaining an advanced and distinguished education system. This is achieved by implementing the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF), a government policy that integrates schools, universities, and vocational institutions into a unified national system. This policy ensures students can switch between colleges without disrupting their education, as the syllabus and teaching methods remain consistent across institutions. As a result, Australia boasts a unique and forward-thinking standard of education.
Higher education in Australia is divided into two main categories: Vocational Education and Training (VET) and University-level Education. Each category is registered and regulated by separate agencies. VET focuses on practical learning, providing students with job-oriented skills to facilitate their entry into the workforce upon course completion. University-level education, on the other hand, encompasses undergraduate (UG), postgraduate (PG), and doctoral programs. Undergraduate programs focus on foundational knowledge and prepare students for their chosen professions, while postgraduate programs offer opportunities for in-depth specialisation. Doctoral programs are designed for students aiming to excel in their field through research and discovery.
Types |
Courses |
Course-Duration |
VET |
Four Levels of Certificates - I, II, III, IV Diploma Courses and Advanced Diploma Courses |
Between 6 months to 2 years. 24 to 36 months |
University-level |
All Kinds of Study Courses |
Four to Five and a Half Years |
Postgraduate or Doctorate |
|
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Leading Universities in Australia for International Students
Australia is home to a remarkable selection of universities that offer exceptional education globally. These universities prioritise research-based learning, enabling students to acquire comprehensive knowledge and understanding of their subjects. Australia's premier institutions are the "Group of 8" (Go8) universities.
Renowned for their research-intensive programs, these eight universities serve as the pillars of the Australian education system, guiding students along their desired career paths and providing an outstanding educational experience.
University Name |
Degrees Offered |
IELTS Requirements |
Tuition Fees/ Per year |
UG, PG, PhD, MBA |
6.5 or 7 |
AUD 36,311 and above |
|
Australian National University |
UG, PG, MBA and Short Courses |
6.5 or 7 |
AUD 39,024 and above |
The University of Queensland |
UG, PG, PhD and MBA |
6.5 |
AUD$ 52,720 and above |
UG, PG, PhD and MBA |
7.0 and above |
AUD 38,960 and above |
|
UG, PG, PhD, MBA and Honours |
6.5 |
AUD 42,000 and above |
|
The University of New South Wales, Sydney |
UG, PG, PhD, MBA and Short Courses |
6.0 |
AUD 20,000 and above |
UG, PG, PhD and MBA |
6.5 |
AUD 43,000 and above |
|
UG, PG, PhD and MBA |
7.0 |
AUD 28,380 and above |
|
UG, PG, PhD, MBA and Short Courses |
6.5 |
AUD 38,094 and above |
|
University of Canberra |
UG, PG, PhD, MBA, Honours, Diploma |
6.0 |
AUD 20,544 and above |
Study Expenses for Sri Lankan Students in Australia
Australia's education system offers diverse study programs to help international students pursue their dream careers. The cost of studying in Australia varies for each program, considering factors such as university infrastructure, classroom facilities, laboratory equipment, book fees, and student accommodation. Below is an overview of the average costs of different study programs and degrees.
More on Living Costs in Australia
Degree(s) |
Average Tuition Fee in AUD/ Per Year |
Average Tuition Fee in LKR/ Per Year |
UG |
AUD $20,000 to AUD $30,000 |
LKR 50,00,00 to LKR 7500000 |
PG |
AUD $20,000 to AUD $37,000 |
LKR 50,00,00 to LKR 92,80,300 |
Doctorate |
AUD 18,000 to AUD 42,000 |
LKR 45,15,300 to LKR 1,05,35,497 |
MBA |
AUD 57,353 |
LKR 1,43,86,723 |
Admission Criteria for International Students in Australia
International students can choose from various entrance exams for studying in Australia based on their preferences and convenience. However, students must strive for high scores in these exams to secure admission into top Australian universities. Below, you will find the minimum entrance exam scores typically required for different study programs in Australia.
Degree Program |
IELTS |
TOEFL |
PTE |
High school Percentage |
Bachelor’s |
6.0 |
80 and above |
40 and above |
65% and above |
Master’s |
6.5 |
80 and above |
65 and above |
65% and above |
PhD or Doctorate |
6.5 |
90 and above |
60 and above |
65% and above |
MBA |
7.5 |
100 and above |
65 and above |
60% and above |
Scholarship Opportunities for International Students to Study in Australia
Australia offers a wide range of scholarships to support international students in managing their financial expenses. Having an exceptional academic record increases your chances of receiving prestigious scholarships. Below, we have compiled the top five scholarships provided by the Australian government.
Scholarship Name |
Description |
Australia Awards Scholarships |
The scholarship can be used to study programs related to development. The scholarship covers both tuition fees and living expenses. |
Australia Awards Fellowships |
The scholarship is for studying subjects related to development. The scholarship covers the total amount of $35,000. |
Obtaining an Australian Student Visa for Sri Lankan Students
Securing a Student Visa for Australia requires adhering to specific procedures outlined by the Australian Government. Below, we have outlined the steps that Sri Lankan students should follow to obtain their Student Visas:
- Apply to a university or college in Australia and receive a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) document.
- Create an account with the Australian Migration Authorities.
- Convert all necessary documents into PDF format for easy submission as digital files.
- Complete the online Visa application.
- Make the Visa payment and obtain the Transaction Reference Number (TRN).
- Undergo a health checkup and attend the health interview, if required.
- Receive your Student Visa.
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FAQs
Can Sri Lankan students study in Australia?
Yes, Sri Lankan students are eligible to study in Australia. Australia welcomes international students from all over the world, including Sri Lanka.
What are the popular study programs for Sri Lankan students in Australia?
Australia offers a wide range of study programs for Sri Lankan students. Popular fields of study include engineering, computer science, business and management, health sciences, hospitality, and social sciences.
How can I apply to study in Australia from Sri Lanka?
To apply, you must research universities and programs, meet the entry requirements, submit your application online, provide supporting documents, and pay the fee. It is recommended to consult with education consultants or the university's international office for guidance.
What are the English language requirements for studying in Australia?
Most universities in Australia require proof of English language proficiency, typically through tests such as IELTS or TOEFL. The required scores may vary depending on the program and university.
Are there scholarships available for Sri Lankan students to study in Australia?
Yes, various scholarships are available for international students, including those from Sri Lanka, to study in Australia. These scholarships can help with tuition fees, living expenses, and other costs. Researching and applying for scholarships specific to your field of study is advisable.