Doc Summary
Yes—you can study in Australia after completing Year 12 (or equivalent). International students typically progress into Bachelor’s degrees, Diplomas/Advanced Diplomas (VET), Foundation programs, or English-language courses. You will need to meet academic and English entry requirements, show financial capacity, hold Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and obtain a Student Visa (Subclass 500). For official visa information, refer to Student visa (subclass 500).
Who Can Apply After Year 12? #
Most students who have completed secondary school (Year 12 or international equivalent) are eligible to apply. Universities and colleges assess:
- Secondary qualification equivalency (e.g., CBSE/ISC/State Boards, A-Levels, IB, or other international curricula)
- Minimum scores (often 60%+ for Bachelor’s entry; requirements vary by institution and course)
- Prerequisites (e.g., Mathematics/Physics for Engineering; Biology/Chemistry for Health Sciences)
- Portfolio/audition (for Design, Architecture, Performing Arts—where applicable)
Study Pathways After 12th #
Bachelor’s Degrees (AQF 7) #
Standard duration is 3–4 years depending on discipline. Direct entry is possible if you meet academic and English criteria. Popular areas include Business, IT, Engineering, Health, and Design.
Diplomas and Advanced Diplomas (AQF 5–6) #
Vocational Education and Training (VET) provides job-ready skills and can offer credit into a related Bachelor’s degree. Duration typically 1–2 years. Ideal for practical fields such as Hospitality, Trades, Community Services, and Project Management.
Foundation/Pathway Programs #
For students who need academic bridging or do not meet direct Bachelor’s entry. Usually 8–12 months and often packaged with the degree.
ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students) #
If you need to improve English proficiency before your main course, ELICOS can be taken standalone or as a packaged offer. Learn more about studying in Australia at Study Australia (official).
Entry Requirements #
- Academic: Year 12 completion (or equivalent) with required subjects and minimum marks.
- English proficiency: Common minimums are IELTS 6.0 (no band less than 5.5) or PTE Academic 50 (no sub-score less than 42). Competitive programs (e.g., Nursing, Education) may ask for higher scores.
- Financial capacity: You must demonstrate funds for tuition, living costs, and travel. The living cost benchmark was updated in 2024; check current figures on Home Affairs before applying.
- OSHC (health insurance): Mandatory for Student Visa holders. See an overview of OSHC at PrivateHealth.gov.au.
- Genuine Student (GS) requirement: You must show you are a genuine temporary entrant for study purposes with clear study plans and ties to your home country.
- Health and character: Medical exams (if required) and police clearances may apply.
Student Visa (Subclass 500) #
The Student Visa permits you to study full-time in a CRICOS-registered course.
- Key steps: Receive an offer and Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), purchase OSHC, prepare financial and English evidence, and lodge your visa online via Home Affairs.
- Work rights: Generally up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited during scheduled breaks. Check current conditions with Home Affairs – Student visa conditions.
- Dependants: Eligible family members can sometimes accompany you; extra funds and OSHC apply.
Intakes, Timelines, and How to Apply #
- Main intakes: February and July; some institutions offer additional October/November intakes.
- Ideal timeline (8–12 months ahead):
- Shortlist course and institution
- Gather documents (transcripts, passport, English test, SOP, references)
- Apply for admission; accept offer and receive CoE
- Arrange OSHC, accommodation, and funds
- Lodge Student Visa (Subclass 500)
- Book travel and attend pre-departure briefing
Costs and Scholarships #
- Tuition (indicative per year): AUD 22,000–35,000 for many Bachelor’s programs; Engineering/IT often AUD 30,000–45,000; VET Diplomas around AUD 12,000–22,000.
- Living costs: Budget for accommodation, food, transport, utilities, and personal expenses per the current Home Affairs benchmark.
- Scholarships: Universities offer merit-based reductions; government options include Destination Australia. See Destination Australia and explore provider-specific scholarships on Study Australia.
Popular Courses After 12th #
- Business, Accounting, and Finance
- Information Technology, Data, and Cyber Security
- Engineering (Civil, Mechanical, Electrical), Construction Management
- Health Sciences, Nursing, Allied Health
- Design, Architecture, and Creative Industries
- Hospitality, Tourism, and Culinary Arts
- Community Services, Early Childhood, and Education Support
- Trades via VET pathways (e.g., Automotive, Carpentry, Electrotechnology)
Why Choose Skills Campus #
- Personalised course and university selection aligned with your Year 12 results and career goals
- End-to-end admissions support, including documentation and deadlines
- Guidance with Genuine Student statements and visa documentation
- Help with OSHC, accommodation options, pre-departure, and settlement
- Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) advice for eligible vocational pathways
- Up-to-date insights on intakes, scholarships, and post-study options
Start Your Journey #
Studying in Australia after 12th is both achievable and rewarding, with clear pathways into world-class institutions and thriving job markets. For tailored advice on courses, admissions, and visas, contact Skills Campus. Visit https://skillscampus.com.au/ or speak to an expert today: https://skillscampus.com.au/contact.
