Doc Summary
Australia is a global leader in nursing education, with world-class universities and vocational providers, accredited clinical placements, and strong employment outcomes. Whether you are a recent school leaver, a career changer, or an international applicant, there is a clear pathway to study nursing in Australia. This guide explains who can study, the eligibility criteria, English and visa requirements, recognition of prior learning (RPL), and how to take the next step with expert support.
Quick answer #
In Australia, you can study nursing if you meet academic, English, and compliance requirements. Eligible groups include:
- Domestic school leavers who meet Year 12 prerequisites
- Career changers with equivalent academic background or bridging studies
- International students who meet English and Student Visa (subclass 500) requirements
- Enrolled Nurses (ENs) seeking to become Registered Nurses (RNs)
- Qualified nurses from overseas pursuing bridging or postgraduate study
- Diploma holders progressing to degree programs via credit/RPL
- Bachelor graduates seeking postgraduate nursing specialisations
Common entry pathways #
Bachelor of Nursing (Registered Nurse pathway) #
The Bachelor of Nursing (typically three years full-time) prepares you for registration as a Registered Nurse (RN). Domestic applicants usually need satisfactory Year 12 results, including English and recommended sciences. Some providers consider work experience or alternative entry schemes. International applicants submit equivalent secondary or tertiary results and demonstrate English proficiency.
Diploma of Nursing (Enrolled Nurse pathway) #
The Diploma of Nursing is a nationally recognised vocational course aligned to the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF). Graduates may apply for registration as Enrolled Nurses with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA), subject to meeting all registration standards. Many students later articulate to a Bachelor of Nursing with credit.
Postgraduate nursing (for graduates and registered clinicians) #
Graduate Certificate, Graduate Diploma, and Master’s programs are available for degree holders and registered nurses seeking advanced practice or specialisations (e.g., mental health, critical care, aged care, leadership). Entry criteria vary by program and prior qualifications.
Eligibility and admission requirements #
Academic prerequisites #
- Undergraduate entry: Year 12 (or equivalent) with English; some providers recommend biology, chemistry, or mathematics. Alternative admission via tertiary preparation or foundation programs may be available.
- Diploma entry: Completion of secondary schooling (or equivalent). Providers may require literacy/numeracy assessments.
- Postgraduate entry: A relevant bachelor’s degree or nursing registration, depending on program level and focus.
English language requirements #
Universities set minimum English standards for admission. Note that registration as a nurse in Australia requires meeting the English language skills registration standard set by AHPRA/NMBA. Typical benchmarks include:
- IELTS Academic: often 6.5–7.0 for admission; AHPRA registration generally requires 7.0 in each band
- OET: minimum grade B in each component for registration
- PTE Academic/TOEFL iBT: accepted by many universities; check individual program thresholds
Refer to the official standard for details: https://www.ahpra.gov.au/Registration/Registration-Standards/English-language-skills.aspx.
Clinical placement and compliance #
All accredited nursing programs include supervised clinical placements. Before commencing placements, students must complete mandatory compliance, which commonly includes immunisation evidence, a National Police Check, Working With Children Check (state-based), and relevant training (e.g., first aid). Programs align with NMBA standards: https://www.nursingmidwiferyboard.gov.au/Registration-standards.aspx.
Visa requirements for international students #
International applicants require the Student Visa (subclass 500). You must demonstrate Genuine Student intent, financial capacity, health insurance (OSHC), and English proficiency, among other criteria. See the Department of Home Affairs for official guidance: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/student-500.
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) and credit transfer #
If you have relevant study or professional experience, you may be eligible for RPL or credit transfer that can reduce the duration or cost of your course. Assessment is conducted by the education provider based on evidence mapping against learning outcomes and national standards. Skills Campus can help you prepare a strong RPL application and select credit-friendly providers.
Registration after graduation #
Graduates seeking to practise must apply for registration with AHPRA/NMBA and meet all registration standards (criminal history, English language, recency of practice, etc.). Details: https://www.nursingmidwiferyboard.gov.au/.
Costs, scholarships, and job outlook #
- Tuition fees: Domestic students may access Commonwealth-supported places (where available) and HELP loans. International fees vary by provider and level.
- Living costs: Budget for accommodation, transport, materials, and compliance checks.
- Scholarships: Explore university and government options via Study Australia: https://www.studyaustralia.gov.au/en/plan-your-studies/scholarships.
- Career demand: Registered Nurses remain in high demand nationwide. See Labour Market Insights: https://www.labourmarketinsights.gov.au/occupation-profile/registered-nurses?occupationCode=2544.
How Skills Campus can help #
Choosing the right nursing pathway is easier with expert guidance. Skills Campus provides personalised course selection, admissions support, English test planning, RPL preparation, and visa guidance in line with current regulations. We collaborate with quality providers across Australia and streamline each step—from eligibility checks to offer acceptance and arrival support.
Ready to confirm your eligibility and compare the best nursing courses in Australia? Visit https://skillscampus.com.au or speak with a consultant now: https://skillscampus.com.au/contact.
