Study in Australia after 12th: A Comprehensive Guide

India is the second-largest source country for international student enrolments in Australia. Approximately 1.2 lakh Indian students studied in Australia from January to September 2023.

If you are an Indian student who has completed 12th grade and wants to take a kangaroo leap into international education, then Australia is all set to welcome you with its world-renowned universities and diverse course offerings. 

In fact, according to the QS World Rankings 2025, the University of Melbourne in Parkville is the top-ranked university in Australia, holding the 13th position globally. 

Choosing to study in Australia after 12th offers several opportunities that can put you on the right career path. Recognised for its excellence globally, the Australian education system can help you achieve your academic and professional goals. 

Take a dip into this comprehensive guide to learn everything you need to know – top universities to study in Australia for Indian students after 12th grade, top courses, admission requirements, and more.

Key Highlights

Why should you consider studying in Australia after completing your 12th? Scroll down to this table for a quick overview of the benefits and opportunities that await you, from world-class universities and diverse courses to splendid scholarships. Here’s everything you will discover in this guide.

Highlight	Detail
Top Universities to Study in Australia for Indian Students After 12th	The University of Melbourne The University of New South Wales (UNSW Sydney) The University of Sydney
Diverse range of courses to Study in Australia after 12th	Over 22,000 courses in engineering, medicine, business, information technology, and the arts.
Monthly Cost of Living (excluding rent)	INR 92L ($1,672)
Top Scholarships to Reduce the Cost of Study in Australia After 12th	Melbourne International Undergraduate Scholarship Vice Chancellor Scholarship Australian Government Scholarships
Part-time Working Hours with Student Visa	40 hours every fortnight during the term Unlimited hours during vacations

Why Study in Australia after 12th

Australia is home to several world-class universities that consistently rank high globally. Some notable examples include The University of Melbourne, Australian National University, and The University of Sydney, all of which rank among the top 50 universities globally. 

In fact, as per the QS World University Ranking 2025, 6 universities from Australia are included in the top 50, attracting students from all over the world. 

What’s more? Australia boasts an impressive enrolment rate, with over 9.7L international students enrolled in higher education institutions in 2023. 

Australian universities are also renowned for their strong emphasis on research and innovation, high academic standards, and robust support services for international students. 

Read on to find out some of the reasons why Australia is an excellent destination for international students after the 12th grade!

1. Work Opportunities for International Students

As a resource-rich country with a robust economy, Australia is the perfect place to hunt for opportunities if you are an aspiring professional. However, that only comes once you have graduated and earned your degree. 

But what about earning while you study in Australia after 12th, you ask? Here’s the fact: you can work 40 hours every fortnight during the term and unlimited hours during vacations. 

For international students, part-time jobs in Australia can guarantee an average hourly pay of INR 1k (AUD 21) or a monthly average salary of INR 1L (AUD 2,000). This allows you to earn while studying, helping to manage the overall living expenses.

2. Diverse Range of Courses Across Various Fields

Australian educational institutions offer an extensive range of courses across various fields. This range includes engineering, medicine, business, information technology, and the arts. 

With over 22,000 courses, you can find programs that align with your interests and career aspirations. This diversity ensures you can pursue specialised education and training that meets global standards and equips you with skills relevant to the modern workforce.

3. A Chance to Live at Student-Friendly Cities in Australia

Did you know that Melbourne and Sydney are among the top 10 student-friendly cities globally, according to the QS Best Student Cities 2024 ranking? These cities provide ample opportunities for high-paying jobs while boasting a high quality of life and vibrant cultural scenes. 

4. Scholarship Opportunities

Another compelling reason to study in Australia after 12th is the financial support Indian students like you receive through scholarships. For instance, the Melbourne International Undergraduate Scholarship offered by The University of Melbourne waives approximately INR 8.5L ($10,000) tuition fee in the 1st year. 

Top Courses to Study in Australia After 12th 

Did you know: The Australian education system is structured around the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF), a national policy that sets the standards for qualifications in the education and training sector?

When you pursue studies in Australia after completing your 12th grade, you’ll experience a unique approach – you will first learn the concepts practically and then focus on the theory. Isn’t that amazing? Australia values hands-on learning to build a strong foundation.

The undergraduate program in Australia usually takes 3 to 4 years to complete and is the primary degree for entry into many professions, such as engineering, law, art and architecture. 

Now that you have a fair idea of what to study in Australia after 12th entails, explore the best courses in Australia after 12th in the upcoming section.

Best Courses in Australia After 12th: Commerce Stream

Did you know: Australia’s strong economic ties with Asia make it an excellent choice to study business and management? 

Students interested in pursuing careers in accounting and finance, economics, investment banking, or law can also benefit from the solid academic curriculum offered by Australian universities in the commerce field. 

Here is a table showcasing some of the best courses in Australia after 12th Commerce and the universities where you can pursue them.

Popular Courses	Top Universities	Estimated Tuition Fees/Year
Accounting and Finance	The University of New South Wales Monash University	INR 40L ($48,000)
Law	University of Sydney University of Melbourne	INR 41L ($48,960)
Business and Economics	University of Melbourne Monash University	INR 42L ($50,528)

Best Courses in Australia After 12th: Science and Computer Science

Do you have a passion for technology and love solving problems? If so, consider enrolling in computer science courses after 12th in Australia. It could be your ticket to a rewarding career with good earning opportunities ahead. Not only this, but Australia is also renowned for offering a wide range of science courses, including medical and non-medical programs.

Some of these courses include:

• Medical Programs: Medicine, Surgery (MBBS), Nursing, Medical Science and Dental Science
• Non-Medical Programs: Computer Science and Engineering 

Here is a table showcasing some of the top science stream courses and the universities where you can pursue them in Australia.

Popular Courses	Top Universities	Estimated Tuition Fees
Engineering	Queensland University of Technology The University of New South Wales	INR 95L ($1,140) per unit of credit (UOC)*
Nursing	University of Sydney Monash University	INR 38L ($45,500)/ year
Architecture	University of Melbourne University of Sydney	INR 40L ($48,500)/ year

*Please note: 48 UOC is the standard full-time load for one year, and most courses at UNSW are worth 6 UOC each.

Best Courses in Australia After 12th: Art Stream

Australia is an excellent pick for Indian students eyeing studying abroad, particularly in humanities and arts. Take RMIT, for instance. It is renowned for its expertise in teaching both technology and art. They’ve been offering photography courses for over 130 years! Isn’t that amazing?

Whether it is humanities, art therapy, visual arts, music or fine arts, Australian universities offer a range of courses that provide students like you with a global perspective. 

If you’re an Indian student considering studying in Australia, here is a table showcasing some of the top Art stream courses and the universities where you can pursue them.

Popular Courses	Top Universities	Estimated Tuition Fees
Visual Arts	RMIT Australia University of Melbourne	INR 30L ($34,880)/ year
Architectural Design	Monash University University of Sydney	INR 40L ($48,400)/ unit of credit (UOC)
Music	University of Melbourne Griffith University	INR 30L ($35,864)/ year

Diploma Courses in Australia After 12th

Are you looking to enrol in diploma courses in Australia after 12th? In that case, this is a cookie section for you.

You might be delighted to know that with its globally renowned universities, Australia has become a popular study destination for both long-term and short-term diploma programs. These specialised courses often emphasise practical skills needed in various industries like accounting, business, visual art and software development. 

Many top Australian universities offer many diploma courses, including those in computing, languages, music, and mathematical sciences.

Here is a table showcasing some of the top Diploma courses in Australia after 12th and the universities where you can pursue them.

Popular Courses	Top University	Estimated Tuition Fees/Year
Diploma in Business	Deakin College	INR 22L ($25,596)
Diploma in Visual Art	RMIT University	INR 22L ($24,000)
Diploma in Music	University of Melbourne	INR 30L ($34,880)

Top 3 Universities for Pursuing Bachelor’s Degrees In Australia After 12th 

Did you know: Australia boasts 42 universities, including 37 public Australian universities, 3 private Australian universities, and 2 private international universities?

This makes the country a favourite destination for international students. If you’re unsure where to start your search, look at the best university picks based on their academic reputation.

Here are the top universities for pursuing undergraduate studies in Australia for international students.

University	QS World Ranking 2025	Average Tuition Fees/Year
The University of Melbourne	13	INR 30L to INR 45L ($34,880 to $53,016)
The University of Sydney	18	INR 42L to INR 46L ($52,000 to $56,000
The University of New South Wales	19	INR 80L to INR 95L ($985 to $1,140) per unit of credit (UOC)

Check out the details below, which include the entry requirements at these universities.

The University of Melbourne

The University of Melbourne offers nearly 100 significant fields of study, allowing you to choose a course that aligns with your career goals. Some popular undergraduate courses are in the arts, humanities, economics, engineering, music, and law. 

Additionally, you can extend your learning with an honours year, a fourth year of study. This year helps you develop new research and professional skills. Honours’ is available in degrees such as Agriculture, Arts, Biomedicine, Commerce, Fine Arts, Music, Oral Health, and Science.

The University of Sydney

Did you know: The University of Sydney has over 4,30,000 alumni spread across more than 170 countries?

The University offers undergraduate programs in various disciplines, including architecture, law, medicine, economics, music and science. 

What’s more? You can enjoy modern facilities, excellent teaching, and a lively campus environment at the University of Sydney. 

The University of New South Wales (UNSW)

In the 2024 QS Subject Rankings, UNSW has 19 subjects in the global top 50, with 10 ranking first in Australia.

Civil & Structural Engineering, Electrical & Electronic Engineering, Materials Sciences, Mathematics and Accounting & Finance are some of the top courses you can pursue. Undoubtedly, studying for an undergraduate degree at UNSW Sydney opens doors to opportunities worldwide.

Intakes at Top Universities to Study in Australia After 12th

Now that you’ve reached this point, it’s clear that you’re serious about applying to Australian universities. For Indian students intending to study in Australia after 12th, it’s crucial to know the admission intakes, deadlines, and other requirements for a seamless and successful journey.

Australia offers 2 main intakes annually: February and July. The primary intake period occurs in February, which is also known as the Semester 1 intake while the secondary intake season is July, also referred to as the Semester 2 intake. 

Read on to learn more about the 2 intakes in Australia. 

Particulars	February Intake in Australia	July Intake in Australia
Programs	All programs are available for admission.	Most programs are available, including some for February intake.
Duration	February or Early March to Late May or Early June	Late July or Early August to November
Deadlines	December	May

Please note: Australian universities do not have specific deadlines. They close applications once they reach capacity.

Additionally, a few universities offer a 3rd intake in November (Semester 3) with an application deadline typically in September. November serves as a minor intake period, with only a few universities offering openings for select programs.

Now that you have an understanding of the different intake options and essential details, you might be curious about which intake is more commonly chosen and when is the ideal time to begin your application process. Read on!

Best Intake for Studying in Australia

The best to study in Australia after 12th will depend on individual preferences and academic goals. That said, the February intake (Semester 1) in Australia is highly popular among universities. It offers a broad selection of courses across various fields. Here are some of the other benefits of applying for the February intake. 

• Students applying for this intake are directly enrolled for the first semester of their chosen course, making it a primary entry point.
• Significant scholarship and financial aid options are available during this period.
• Choosing the February intake allows for flexibility in academic timing
• Starting in February, give students ample opportunities to explore part-time job opportunities. 

However, students also apply for the July intake, and the choice between the two depends on your academic goals and programme availability. For a smooth application process, it is recommended to start applying around May or June of the previous year for the February intake and from August to November for the July intake.

With an excellent choice of universities, career opportunities and cultural experiences, Australia is one of the best places to study in 2024! Ready to kick-start your studies in Australia? Here’s your chance. LeapScholar is proud to offer a highly qualified team of counselors with over 50 years of combined experience assisting students in studying abroad. Book a free call with our experts now!

Entry Requirements for Admission to a Bachelor’s Program in Australia

In the year-to-date March 2024, international student enrolments in Australia reached 7,41,224, marking a 16% surge compared to the same period in 2019, pre-COVID-19 pandemic. 

You must know the entry requirements if you also want to study in Australia after 12th grade.

Here are the general entry requirements for admission to a bachelor’s program.

• For Indian students, complete either of these: the All India Senior School Certificate (CBSE), Indian School Certificate (ISC), or State Board Matriculation Examination. These are equivalent to the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE).
• English language proficiency test score requirements are as follows:

Test	Minimum Score Requirements
TOEFL	Minimum total score of 79 Writing: 21 Speaking: 18 Reading: 13
IELTS	Minimum total score of 6.5 with no band less than 6.0

Please note: The entry requirements may vary depending on the course.

Eligibility Criteria to Study in Australia After 12th

Did you know: The Australian Government has ceased permitting international students to enrol in 2 courses simultaneously within the first six months of study in their principal course? 

It is important to note that this change does not impact students already holding concurrent enrolments. Familiarise yourself with additional eligibility criteria for studying in Australia. While these criteria can differ based on the courses and universities, the basic requirements are as follows.

• Minimum Percentage Requirement for Australia: To study in Australia after 12th, you must have a minimum score of 65% in the 12th grade in the respective stream. The diploma and other basic courses have a lower score requirement.

• Age limit: Before enrolling in a degree program, you must be at least 18 years old.

            Let’s discuss how to get your foot in the door with the application process next.

Application Process You Need to Follow to Study in Australia After 12th 

You must complete and submit the application forms within the university deadlines to secure admission. You can request application forms through the mail from the university websites or download copies of the forms from university portals. You can also get the forms from accredited Australian University representatives in India.

Here is how you can apply for course as an international student in Australia. 

1. Choose the program you want to study. Australia offers a wide range of degrees, including medicine, law, IT management, business administration, accounting, creative arts and design, education, and environmental science.
2. Check you meet academic entry requirements of the university and the particular course you want to study.
3. Prepare the necessary documents based on the programme you chose. Most of the time you need to submit the following documents. 

• Education Records: All your secondary and higher-secondary educational records and transcripts are required. It would be better to transform the marks into the Australian grading system.
• Portfolio: You must submit your work experience report and a CV for higher study and a CV for higher study degrees, such as MBAs or doctoral degrees.
• Letters of Recommendation: These letters are references from your teachers, professors, and instructors, stressing your skills and the reasons for your success in your chosen field. 
• Statements of Purpose: These are essays that you must write to the university regarding your skills, talents, hobbies, etc. You must also mention why you chose this particular course, financial management.

4. Once all the documents are ready and signed, it’s finally time to submit your application.
5. After you receive the letter of acceptance from the university, the next step is to apply for your Australian student visa, specifically the Subclass 500 student visa.

Cost of Living in Australia

Analysing the cost of living as an Indian student to study in Australia after 12th grade can be essential to planning your education journey abroad. From accommodation expenses to daily necessities and transportation costs, understanding the financial scenario is crucial for a smooth transition. 

As an international student living in Australia, you must pay numerous expenses. The average monthly cost of living in Australia is INR 92L ($ 1,671.5), excluding rent. This amount includes a variety of daily expenses such as food, medical, and transportation. 

Here is a breakdown of the monthly living costs in Australia. 

Factors	Cost
Rent	INR 1.2L ($ 2,224)/ month
Meal at an Inexpensive Restaurant	INR 1.3k ($ 25)/ meal
Transportation (Monthly Pass)	INR 9.3k ($ 168)
Other Basic Utilities	INR 17k ($ 307)/ month

To delve deeper into the specifics of living expenses in Australia and how they might impact your budget, you can explore further details in this blog on the cost of living in Australia for international students. 

Application Process for Australian Study Visa after 12th

Did you know: As of May 10, 2024, international students must demonstrate they meet a new financial capacity requirement of INR 13.5L (AUD 24,505)? This ensures you are better able to make informed decisions about your future and are less likely to experience financial difficulties once you arrive in Australia.

Indian students can apply for different student visas based on their chosen field of study in Australia after 12th. However, a student visa (subclass 500) is mandatory for all, allowing you to stay up to 5 years and in line with your enrolment.

Here is a table listing these visas for students to study in Australia after 12th, including the visa processing fees and processing time.

Name of the Visa	Base Application Charge	Visa Processing Time
Student Visa (Subclass 500)– All other students	INR 40k (AUD 710)	40 days to 3 months
Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)	Starting from INR 1.05L (AUD 1,895)	3 to 4 months

Please note: The processing times and fees are approximate and can vary depending on individual circumstances and the specific application. 

The steps to apply for a student visa in order to study in Australia after 12th are as follows:

Step 1: Get evidence of English language proficiency

Step 2: Apply to an education provider in Australia and get a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)

Step 3: Create an account with the Australian immigration authorities

Step 4: Complete the visa application online

Step 5: Pay the visa fee and get a *TRN number

Step 6: Possible health check-up and interview

Step 7: Your visa decision outcome

*The TRN, or Transaction Reference Number, is provided to applicants who apply for their Australia visa online. It serves as a unique identifier for online visa applications

Scholarships to Reduce the Cost of Study in Australia After 12th

Studying in Australia is a dream for many Indian students. However, you might worry about the expensive university fees when considering studying in Australia after the 12th grade. If that’s true, then you would be happy to know that scholarships can ease this burden by covering tuition fees, housing, and other living expenses. 

You can apply for various scholarships if you are considering pursuing higher education in Australia. Both the government and universities offer scholarships with varying values and eligibility criteria.

Read on to explore some notable scholarships offered by the Australian Government for study in Australia after the 12th grade.

Government Scholarships to Reduce the Cost of Study in Australia After 12th

Did you know that for the 2024 academic year, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) provided 1,141 long-term Australia Awards scholarships to individuals from 55 partner countries? The Australian Government’s development policy recognises that investing in tertiary education promotes prosperity and enhances stability.

Here are the details of top Government scholarships that will help you to study in Australia after 12th without putting a lot of pressure on the wallet.

Scholarship Program	Offered by	Benefits
Australian Awards Scholarships	Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT)	Total Tuition Fees for up to 2 years Contribution to Living Expenses (CLE)*
Destination Australia Scholarship	The Destination Australia and funded by the Australian Government Department of Education	$15,000 (INR 12.5L) per year (maximum 4 years)

*Contribution to Living Expenses (CLE) provides a fortnightly stipend for basic living costs determined by the department.

1). Australian Awards Scholarships

This scholarship provides fully funded opportunities for students from India to pursue studies at Australian universities and Technical and Further Education (TAFE) institutions. In addition to covering tuition fees and living expenses, this scholarship also includes accommodation expenses. It also provides return air travel, encompassing a single economy class airfare to and from Australia.

Scholarship Details

• Covers the duration required for students to complete their specified academic program at the Australian higher education institution.
• Scholarship recipients must sign a contract with the Commonwealth of Australia, agreeing to scholarship conditions. 
• Scholars are required to leave Australia for a minimum of two years upon scholarship completion, and failure to do so results in incurring a debt equivalent to the total scholarship cost.

2. Destination Australia Scholarship

You can qualify for this scholarship if you hold a student visa specifically for the scholarship’s duration. The program aims to attract and support studies in regional Australia.

Scholarship Details

To be eligible for the scholarship, you must have a full offer to study one of the following programs, which are exclusively delivered at the university’s campus:

1. Bachelor of Agricultural Science
2. Bachelor of Veterinary Science (Honours)
3. Bachelor of Veterinary Technology
4. Bachelor of Wildlife Science
5. Master of Agribusiness
6. Master of Agricultural Science
7. Master of Animal Science

Scholarships Offered by Universities to Study in Australia After 12th

Did you know: Southern Cross University in Australia offers a maximum fee reduction of INR 4L to Indian students? All degree programs at these campuses are eligible regardless of whether they are undergraduate or graduate.

Let’s explore university-specific Australian scholarships for Indian students.

Scholarship Program	Offered by	Benefits
Melbourne International Undergraduate Scholarship	The University of Melbourne	$10,000 (INR 8.4L)
Academic Excellence Scholarship	Southern Cross University	$15,000 (INR 12.5L)

1. Melbourne International Undergraduate Scholarship

This scholarship is for high-achieving international students who will receive either a:

• $10,000 (INR 8.4L) tuition fee remission for the first year of an undergraduate degree, or
• 50% or 100% fee remission throughout the three-year duration.

Scholarship Details

To be considered for the scholarship, you must be:

• Citizen of a country other than Australia and New Zealand and not a permanent resident of Australia.
• Unconditional offer for an undergraduate course at the University of Melbourne.
• International Baccalaureate (IB) – score of at least 43 (completed at a secondary school outside Australia).
• India Secondary School (CBSE, ISCE, or State Board Exam) – overall score of at least 98%.

2.  Academic Excellence Scholarship

The eligibility criteria for this scholarship, funded by Southern Cross University, cater to new international students starting an undergraduate program in Term 5, October intake 2024. The scholarship offers a $15,000 (INR 12.5L) in fee reduction for the first year and $8,000 (INR 6.7L) in fee reduction for subsequent years. 

Scholarship Details

• Academic achievements above the minimum admission requirements (assessed by the Southern Cross admissions team).
• Study on a student visa and meet program and visa requirements.
• Not hold any other Southern Cross University scholarships.
• Not for Australian or New Zealand citizens or permanent Australian residents.

Please note: The deadline to apply for this scholarship program is 31 July 2024 at 12 p.m., and you must accept the offer before 30 August 2024.

Australian Scholarships for international students are vital in promoting educational exchange and diversity. These prestigious awards enable talented individuals worldwide to pursue higher education in Australia, fostering global collaboration and enriching the academic landscape. 

Also Read: Australia Fully and Partially Funded Scholarships for International Students

Top High-paying Jobs You Can Get After Completing Your Graduation in Australia

Did you know that cities like Sydney, Brisbane, and Melbourne are renowned for offering some of the highest-paying jobs in Australia and for providing a safe and secure environment? 

What’s more? The number of job vacancies in Australia reached 3,88,800 in 2024. Moreover, the Australian government has decided to raise the minimum salary for temporary skilled migrant workers to INR 59L ($70,000). Yes, you read that right! 

It is no surprise that graduating from an Australian university opens up many job opportunities across various sectors. 

In the table below, we have listed down the popular job roles with average pay. 

Top Job Roles	Average Pay Per Year
Mechanical Engineer	INR 73L ($87766)
Nurses	INR 65L ($77,826)
Software Developer	INR 85L ($102,126)
Financial Analysts	INR 83L ($99,641)
Accountants	INR 64L ($76,622)

Please note: The salary will vary based on experience level and skill set. 

Ready to shape your future in Australia? Let’s explore the top recruiters who value Australian graduates.

Top Recruiters Who Hire Graduates in Australia

Did you know: Deloitte, a globally renowned professional services network, has been named Australia’s Most Attractive Employer for 2024? Other companies that made it to the top 5 list according to the 2024 Randstad Employer Brand Research include G8 Education and IAG Australia.

Graduates can look forward to opportunities with these top Australian employers, known for their excellent graduate programs and strong career development prospects.

Here is a list of the top graduate employers in Australia that you might want to check out.

• Commonwealth Bank: One of the largest banks in Australia, offering roles in finance, IT, and business management.
• BHP: A global resources company that frequently hires engineers, geologists, and environmental scientists.
• PwC (PricewaterhouseCoopers): A top consulting firm known for hiring graduates in accounting, consulting, and technology.
• Telstra: Australia’s largest telecommunications company, hiring IT professionals, engineers, and business analysts.
• Deloitte: A significant consulting firm that recruits graduates for roles in audit, consulting, financial advisory, and risk management.
• Westpac Group: Another leading bank with a strong graduate recruitment program in finance, IT, and business operations.

To Sum Up

With a welcoming society and robust support for international students, Australia provides an enriching environment for personal and academic growth.

When planning to study in Australia, choosing the right intake (February, July, or November) is essential based on course availability and personal preparedness. Early application and strategic financial planning, including exploring scholarship opportunities, can significantly enhance your experience in studying abroad.

The application process can be complex. Seeking guidance from educational consultants provides valuable insights and support, making your transition to study in Australia after 12th grade smooth and hassle-free.

At Leap Scholar, our dedication lies in providing you with precise information regarding the top universities, courses, admission requirements, and more to study in Australia after 12th. The objective is to provide you with a solid starting point. We hope we’ve given you all the information you need to know about your prospects in Australia as an Indian student. For more details, explore our blog on cost of studying in Australia now!

Frequently Asked Questions