Australia is the world’s third-most popular study abroad destination. It offers world-class education opportunities, and the ability for students to work during and post-study, in a laid-back, multicultural environment. Here are a few reasons why international students should study in Australia!
Australia 101
Australia is a land of contrasts. It’s the smallest continent and one of the largest countries on Earth. Australia’s geography is extremely diverse, from the snow-capped mountains of the Australian Alps and Tasmania, to large deserts, and tropical and temperate forests.
Australia has six states and two territories. The capital of Australia is Canberra. In the Top 50 QS Best Student Cities rankings for 2026, Melbourne ranked fifth globally and Sydney ranked sixth. Both cities consistently appear in lists of the world’s top 10 student cities. The Economist also lists Sydney, Melbourne, and Adelaide among the world’s 10 best cities to live in.
So, Why Study in Australia?
Australian degrees are highly sought-after by global employers and can open doors to an exciting future. Here are some reasons why.
Get a Globally Recognized Education
Australia has one of the best education systems in the world. According to the 2025 United Nations Human Development Report’s Education Index, Australia’s education system ranks ninth globally, and Australians have the highest expected years of schooling in the world, at 21.1 years. The Australian education system is tightly regulated by the government to maintain its high standards. A key piece of legislation, the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act, protects international students in Australia and helps to ensure they receive appropriate academic support.
Australian institutions also consistently rank highly in global education rankings. In the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026, six Australian universities ranked in the top 100, with ten in the top 200. According to the ShanghaiRanking Academic Ranking of World Universities 2025, five Australian universities were in the top 100, and two-thirds of Australia’s public universities featured in the top 500.
Learn about Australian student visa requirements and application processes.
Build a Global Career
International students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight (every two weeks) during term time, and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks and holidays. This provides them with valuable work experience and helps to offset living costs while studying. Note that master’s by research and PhD students enjoy unlimited work rights throughout their studies.
Whether the student applies for work in Australia with a Temporary Graduate visa after finishing their studies, or works elsewhere, an Australian education can open many doors. The government’s Australian Global Alumni program also helps graduates connect with other alumni who can support their professional growth.
Find out more about post-study work rights and career pathways in Australia.
Australia Is a Great Place to Live
From its high quality of life to its enviable weather, here are just a few reasons why Australia’s a great place to study.
A High Quality of Life
Australian cities consistently rank amongst the world’s most liveable, ranking highly for their residents’ overall quality of life. Plus, the entire country’s quality of education, healthcare, transportation, infrastructure, and government services consistently rank well above international averages.
Warm Weather Year-Round
One of the biggest perks of studying in Australia is its weather! Australia is warm all year, but the actual weather typically varies greatly between regions. The northern parts of Australia have a more tropical climate, which is hot and humid in the summer, and quite warm and dry in the winter. The southern parts are cooler, with mild summers and cool, rainy winters.
Since Australia is in the Southern Hemisphere, its seasons are the opposite of those in the Northern Hemisphere. In other words, when it’s summer in Australia, it’s winter in Canada, the US, India, China, and other countries above the equator.
Effective Transportation Networks
Australia’s extensive public transportation system makes it easy for students to get around. All major towns in Australia have reliable, affordable public bus networks. Train lines also connect the five largest cities: Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, and Perth. Trams, ferries, and light-rail systems are also available in some of the major cities for longer-distance travel. All major cities also have airports with regularly scheduled flights.
Many tertiary institutions subsidize the cost of local public transportation for their students. In fact, post-secondary students can save up to 50% when they purchase their transit passes with a valid student ID.
All Australian cities and towns offer taxi services, but students can also use ride share apps.
Start Your Australian Study Journey
International students in Australia will not only get a truly world-class education, but also an unforgettable experience. With six Australian cities in the world’s top 50 for students, strong work rights that allow up to 48 hours of work per fortnight during studies, and well-established pathways to post-study work opportunities, Australia offers international students access to academic excellence and practical experience.
What are you waiting for? Start exploring your options to study in Australia on the ApplyBoard platform!