World class education

Universities ranked among the world's best

Australia is one of the world’s top study destinations for international students. 

For many years, Australian universities have ranked among the best in the world for quality of education, student satisfaction and overall global reputation. Check out independent rankings such as Times Higher Education World University Rankings, Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings, QS World University Rankings and the Shanghai/Academic Rankings of World Universities (ARWU).   Highlights include:

Globally recognised qualifications

Your Australian qualification can open up global career opportunities.

Graduates from Australian courses are in demand. Employers in Australia and around the world know that Australian qualifications are current, industry-relevant and of a world-class standard.

An exciting history of innovation

Australian education providers encourage their students to think big and achieve their goals.

Among Australia’s international alumni are leading scientists, designers, educators, entrepreneurs, artists and humanitarians. Some have become world leaders in groundbreaking research and development and have helped to change the world for the better.

In fact, the work of researchers at Australian institutions has benefited millions worldwide, fom the discovery of penicillin, to the development of the cervical cancer vaccine, Wi-Fi, the Cochlear implant and so many more life-changing innovations.

Find out about research opportunities in Australia

Quality education standards

Australia’s international education system is strictly regulated to protect your rights and care for your welfare.

In Australia there is a system of quality control and government accreditation to ensure you have the best study experience. This system has been specially designed for international students. 

• The Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) regulates courses delivered by Australian education and training providers. It also enables different countries to recognise your qualification and issue a comparable qualification. 
• Every course offered to international students by an Australian higher education provider, vocational education and training provider, Foundation college, ELICOS provider or school must meet the Australian Government’s strict quality standards. 
• All higher education providers in Australia must complete a demanding accreditation process so that they can deliver the highest standard of teaching and learning. They must also go through regular, formal reviews to make sure they keep meeting these standards. 
• Australia also has a set of laws to make sure our international students rights are protected, called The Education Services for Overseas Students Act 2000 (ESOS Act).

Protection for you and your study experience

Australia has a set of laws and regulations to protect the rights of all international students.

Special laws in Australia protect the rights of international students. These are covered in the Education Services for Overseas Students Act 2000 (ESOS Act).  The ESOS Act helps to ensure international students in Australia receive a high quality education in a safe and fair environment. 

Find out more about your legal rights and protections as an international student in Australia. 

Support while you study 

The Australian Government and education providers work together to ensure international students have a great student experience. 

Australian education providers at all levels have dedicated staff members whose job is to look after your welfare and wellbeing as an international student.

These dedicated staff, often called ‘international student advisers’, are available to help answer any questions you have as an international student. Many cities and towns also have dedicated international student hubs and centres.

Find out more about student support services.