Education system
The Australian education system is broadly divided into the
university, vocational, school and English language sectors.
University is the
highest level of study in Australia. There are 41 universities
in total - 38 public (government funded) and three private.
You can study at the undergraduate level (Bachelor degree) or
postgraduate level (Graduate Certificate, Diploma, Masters,
PhD).
Vocational
institutions are closely linked with industry, making courses very
practical and skill-based. Vocational courses
are provided at both the government-funded Technical and
Further Education (TAFE) institutes and at private
institutions. Some universities also offer vocational courses.
School is compulsory
for children aged between 6 and 15 years, with exams
for university generally at 18 years old. Australian schools
are public (government) and private (religious or
independent).
English language
courses can be taken for study, travel, immigration or
business purposes. There are around 100 private English
language centres in Australia. Some universities and vocational
institutes also offer English language courses.
To find out more, read about each sector or talk to
your IDP counsellor.
