Doc Summary
Short answer: Yes. After completing Year 10 (or equivalent), you can study in Australia by enrolling in senior secondary school (Year 11–12), English language (ELICOS), or selected vocational education and training (VET) courses—provided you meet age, academic, English, and visa requirements.
Who Is Eligible to Study in Australia After 10th? #
Students who have completed Grade 10 (or SSC) in their home country can be eligible for Australian pathways if they:
- Meet the minimum age and academic requirements of the chosen provider
- Demonstrate English proficiency (IELTS/PTE/TOEFL or provider-approved alternatives)
- Secure an offer from a CRICOS-registered institution
- Obtain a Student Visa (Subclass 500) from the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs
- Have adequate welfare/guardianship arrangements if under 18
Best Study Pathways After 10th #
1) Australian Senior Secondary (Year 11–12) #
Ideal for students who want to progress to Australian university or higher VET. You’ll complete an Australian state/territory certificate (e.g., HSC, VCE, QCE) and can use your results for university admissions.
- Entry: Completion of Year 10 or equivalent
- English: School-specific requirements; ELICOS may be packaged
- Intakes: Mainly January/February; mid-year entry may be possible
- Where to start: Explore options via Study Australia (official)
2) ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students) #
If you need to improve English for school or VET, ELICOS offers flexible weeks of study.
- Entry: Placement test or existing score
- Packaging: Commonly packaged with high school or VET offer
- Visa note: Must be with a CRICOS-registered provider
3) Vocational Education and Training (VET) #
Some providers accept applicants with Year 10 for selected Certificates (I–IV), progressing to Diplomas and Advanced Diplomas. VET is hands-on and aligned to the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF).
- Entry: Year 10 or 11 equivalent for some Certificate levels; check course-specific criteria on training.gov.au
- Popular areas: Business, IT, Hospitality, Trades, Community Services
- Pathways: Credit transfer to higher VET or university (provider dependent)
Student Visa (Subclass 500): Key Requirements #
The Student Visa covers schools, ELICOS, VET, and higher education. Confirm details on the official site: Home Affairs – Student visa (Subclass 500).
- GTE/GS: Demonstrate Genuine Student intent and study relevance
- Financial capacity: Home Affairs updates the minimum living cost benchmark periodically (recent guidance places the primary applicant’s annual living costs at around AUD 29,710). Always check the latest figure on Home Affairs
- OSHC: Overseas Student Health Cover is mandatory (learn more)
- Under 18: Provide welfare arrangements (CAAW/approved guardian)
- Work rights: Student visa holders can work limited hours during study periods, with full-time permissions during scheduled breaks (check the latest rules on Home Affairs)
Costs and Intakes (Typical Ranges) #
- High school (international): ~AUD 12,000–35,000 per year
- ELICOS: ~AUD 300–450 per week (varies by city/provider)
- VET Certificates/Diplomas: ~AUD 6,000–20,000 per year
- Living costs: Refer to current Home Affairs benchmark and set a realistic budget for accommodation, food, transport, and insurance
- Intakes: Schools start Jan/Feb; VET often has multiple intakes (Feb/Apr/Jul/Oct)
Documents You’ll Commonly Need #
- Passport, academic transcripts for Year 10 (translated if required)
- English test score (if applicable) or placement test
- Offer Letter/Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from a CRICOS provider
- GTE/GS statement, proof of funds, OSHC, welfare/guardian details if under 18
How Skills Campus Can Help #
Skills Campus provides end-to-end support: course and provider selection, eligibility checks, English and VET packaging, documentation and GTE/GS guidance, and referral to registered migration partners for visa lodgement. We also advise on guardianship and accommodation options for under-18s. Start with a free consultation at Skills Campus.
Quick FAQs #
Can I join Australian Year 11 after 10th? #
Yes, many schools accept international students into Year 11 if you meet age, academic, and English criteria. ELICOS can be packaged if needed.
Can I do VET directly after 10th? #
Some Certificate-level courses accept Year 10 or 11 equivalent. Check the specific entry requirements for each course and provider.
What if I’m under 18? #
You must have approved welfare arrangements (provider-issued CAAW or a parent/approved guardian in Australia) until you turn 18.
Is IELTS mandatory? #
Not always. Requirements vary by provider and course. Alternatives and internal tests may be accepted; ELICOS can help you meet the level needed.
Next Steps #
- Choose your pathway: Senior Secondary (Year 11–12), ELICOS, or VET
- Check entry, English, and age requirements on the provider’s CRICOS listing
- Prepare funds, documents, and GTE/GS statement
- Apply for the offer, receive your CoE, and lodge Student Visa (Subclass 500)
Ready to study in Australia after 10th? Speak with Skills Campus for personalised guidance on schools, English packages, VET options, and visa preparation. Visit skillscampus.com.au or contact us at skillscampus.com.au/contact.
