Australia has a seemingly limitless array of education and training opportunities. International Students can choose from a vast range of courses including traditional academic areas of learning and research, as more practical course with a vocational orientation.

Each of Australia's institutes has its own strengths and areas of specialization, which gives international students a wide choice and access to latest technology and research in their chosen field. The most popular courses for Indian students are: Business, Information technology, Engineering, Science and Hospitality.

Australia's education qualifications are recognized all over the world and so you will find Australian Graduates employed in prominent positions all over the world.

Foundation studies give international students the knowledge and skills for a smooth transition from learning in their home country to undergraduate studies in Australian universities. Foundation Studies are usually one year in duration and students are assessed and examined by their lecturers. Foundation studies are divided into various streams like arts and science studies. The common feature of foundation studies is that a university allocates a provisional place in an undergraduate course for a student who achieves the prescribed grades.

Anyone intending to undertake a full time course of three months or longer in a registered institute in Australia needs to obtain a student visa.

This permit (student visa) will allow the holder to enter and remain in Australia for the duration of the registered course of study. The student visa application fee is currently AUD 4210.00 (around INR 15,800 rupees) and is non refundable.

International students at the higher education level can work on a casual basis (upto 20 hours a week) during course time and full time during vacation periods, provided this does not interfere with their study program.

Universities and TAFE institutions have a Careers Office, which regularly posts employment vacancies.

Before gaining paid part-time employment, you must lodge an application for a 'student visa with permission to work' with the Department of Immigration, Multicultural and Indigenous Affairs (DIMIA). You can only do this once you have started your course in Australia.

However we advise students not to depend on part-time work for their expenses and also it is difficult to find work in Australia.