Choosing where to study, with your eyes open.
Australia has universities and colleges of every size. The right choice is a registered provider, a course that fits your plans, and a realistic budget, decided before you pay a deposit.
Four checks before you enrol.
- Is the course on CRICOS?Search the provider and the exact course code on the CRICOS register.
- What will it really cost?Tuition, fees, health cover (OSHC), the A$2,500 visa charge, travel and living costs of at least A$29,710 a year.
- Does it fit your story?The Genuine Student requirement asks why this course, at this provider, makes sense for you.
Universities and colleges
Australia's universities offer bachelor, masters and doctoral degrees. Other higher education providers offer degrees and diplomas in particular fields. Vocational education and training (VET) providers, including TAFE institutes, offer practical qualifications such as certificates and diplomas. English language colleges (ELICOS) prepare students for study.
Your rights as an international student
The Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) framework protects international students. It sets standards for providers, including the information they must give you, support services, and what happens to your fees if a provider cannot deliver your course. The Tuition Protection Service helps students whose provider closes.
Source: Department of Education, ESOS framework
What changed in 2025 and 2026
- From 1 April 2026, education agents cannot receive commissions for onshore student transfers between providers.
- From 2 October 2026 to 30 June 2027, most students who are not school students cannot transfer to another provider in their first 12 months without their provider's release.
- The National Planning Level for new international student commencements is 295,000 for 2026, and is held at that level for 2027.
- From 2 October 2026, most people can no longer apply for a Student visa while in Australia, and most students can no longer include family members.
Sources: TEQSA; Department of Employment and Workplace Relations; Department of Home Affairs
Student life
Most providers have international student support teams, orientation programs and student unions. Use them early. Keep up your attendance and course progress, because both are conditions of most Student visas, and check your work conditions before taking a job.
General information only, checked 22 October 2026.