Doc Summary
Yes, Pakistani students can study in Australia after completing 10th grade. While you typically cannot enter a bachelor’s degree directly after 10th, Australia offers clear pathways such as Year 11–12 (senior secondary), foundation studies, vocational education and training (VET), and English language programs. Below is a practical guide on eligibility, visa requirements, costs, timelines, and how Skills Campus can support your journey.
Quick Answer #
You can move to Australia after 10th to study Year 11–12, foundation studies, or a VET certificate/diploma, provided you meet academic, English, welfare, and financial requirements and obtain a Student visa (subclass 500). After these pathways, you can progress to higher education.
Pathways to Study in Australia After 10th #
- Senior Secondary (Years 11–12): Enrol in an Australian high school to complete Year 11 and Year 12. This is the most direct route to university admission via an ATAR-equivalent.
- Foundation Studies: One-year preparatory programs offered by universities and colleges designed for international students who haven’t completed Year 12 in Australia. Successful completion usually leads to entry into the first year of a bachelor’s degree.
- VET (Certificates I–IV, Diploma, Advanced Diploma): Skills-based courses in fields like IT, business, hospitality, engineering, and health. Many VET courses accept applicants who have completed Year 10 or 11, and some diplomas provide credit pathways into university.
- ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students): If you need to improve English, you can study ELICOS separately or as a packaged program with VET or foundation studies.
Entry Requirements for Pakistani Students #
- Academic: Completed 10th grade from a recognised board. For Year 11–12 and foundation, schools/providers will assess grades and subjects. VET providers may accept Year 10 with program-specific prerequisites.
- English proficiency: Commonly accepted tests include IELTS Academic, PTE Academic, and TOEFL iBT. Minimum scores vary by course type (e.g., foundation/VET typically IELTS 5.5–6.0 or equivalent). ELICOS can be packaged if you need a higher score.
- Age and welfare (under 18): If you are under 18, you must have approved welfare arrangements, such as a parent/guardian in Australia or a provider-issued Confirmation of Appropriate Accommodation and Welfare (CAAW).
- Genuine Student (GS) and visa suitability: You must demonstrate legitimate study intent and that the course aligns with your background and goals.
- Financial capacity: You must show evidence of funds for tuition, living costs, travel, and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). Refer to official guidance for the latest amounts.
Student Visa (Subclass 500) Essentials #
To study in Australia, you’ll need the Student visa (subclass 500). You must first receive a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). Key components:
- Enrolment and CoE: Secure an offer and pay the required deposit to obtain your CoE.
- OSHC: Maintain Overseas Student Health Cover for the duration of your stay.
- English and academic documents: Provide certified transcripts, test scores, and a valid passport.
- Financial evidence: Show funds as per Department of Home Affairs requirements.
- Welfare arrangements (if under 18): Provide CAAW or guardian details and accommodation plan.
For official visa details, see the Department of Home Affairs Student visa page: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/student-500.
Costs, Scholarships, and Living Considerations #
- Tuition (indicative):
- Year 11–12 (international): approximately AUD 14,000–35,000 per year (public vs private vary).
- Foundation studies: approximately AUD 20,000–35,000 per year.
- VET: approximately AUD 8,000–22,000 per year, depending on level and field.
- OSHC: Budget for compulsory health cover for the entire visa period.
- Living costs: Accommodation, food, transport, and utilities vary by city. Always verify the latest financial capacity amounts with Home Affairs.
- Scholarships: Many schools, colleges, and universities offer merit-based or need-aware support. Check the provider’s website and the official Study Australia portal.
Explore official resources: Study Australia https://www.studyaustralia.gov.au/en and CRICOS course search https://cricos.education.gov.au/.
Application Timeline and Steps #
- Map your pathway: Decide between Year 11–12, foundation, VET, and/or ELICOS based on your goals and current grades.
- Choose a CRICOS-registered provider: Confirm the course is registered for international students.
- Prepare documents: Passport, academic transcripts, English test, Statement of Purpose, evidence of funds, and welfare arrangements (if under 18).
- Apply and receive an offer: Review conditions such as English score and deposit.
- Pay deposit and get CoE: Arrange OSHC and any welfare/guardian documentation.
- Apply for the Student visa (subclass 500): Submit your application online with supporting evidence; complete health checks and biometrics if requested.
- Pre-departure: Book accommodation, airport pickup, and attend orientation.
Common intakes are February and July, with some providers offering October/November starts.
FAQs #
Can I join a bachelor’s degree after 10th? Not directly. Complete Year 11–12, a foundation program, or a relevant VET pathway first.
What English scores are needed? Requirements vary; many foundation/VET programs accept IELTS 5.5–6.0 (or PTE Academic equivalent). Check your provider’s specific thresholds.
Can I work while studying? Students may work limited hours in line with visa conditions. Always verify current work rights on the Home Affairs website.
Is guardianship required if I’m under 18? Yes. You must have approved welfare arrangements (e.g., CAAW or a parent/guardian in Australia).
Will VET lead to university? Many diplomas articulate to bachelor’s degrees with credit, depending on agreements between institutions.
How Skills Campus Helps #
- Course and pathway selection tailored to your goals and budget.
- Admissions, documentation, and visa guidance aligned with current regulations.
- Welfare and accommodation advice for under-18 students.
- Scholarship shortlisting and application support.
Ready to plan your move? Visit Skills Campus: https://skillscampus.com.au or contact us today: https://skillscampus.com.au/contact.
