Australia: Major Benefits of Abroad Study
World class universities, an affordable and carefree lifestyle, and plenty of warm sunshine to go around. It’s no wonder that students from all over the world flock to Australia for study abroad every year, and you could easily be joining in on the fun. The following is a quick list of the biggest benefits of studying abroad in Australia.
1. There are Tons of Study Abroad Scholarship Options
While your home institution likely has funds available for students studying abroad in Australia, there is also another fantastic resource to utilize in the quest to make your international experience as affordable as possible. Every year the Australian government sets aside over $200 million dollars specifically for international students coming to study at Australian universities. These funds are open to students from all over the world and there are certain requirements for application to some (grade requirements, financial need, etc.) but any student accepted to study abroad in Australia should inquire with the University’s financial aid department to see what scholarships may be available to them.
2. World Class Academic Recognition
For a country of just 23 million people, Australia has a long standing history of being home to some of the best research institutions on Earth. Top academic programs in science fields, like chemistry, geology, biology, zoology and wildlife, mathematics, and engineering can be found in many of Australia’s 43 major universities, making a study abroad program in Australia a great addition to every student’s professional resume, almost regardless of their field of study.
3. You Can Study ANYTHING
Between the more than 40 universities in Australia, there are hundreds of opportunities to study hundreds of different subjects. For a majority of study abroad students, the larger universities will be top choices, and each one will provide just as many courses of study as any major American university. The most prestigious school in the country, the Australian National University, has over 750 possible course combinations; the pure number of courses offered at the Australian National University means that you will not only be able to take courses related to your major, but there will also be ample opportunities to broaden your academic horizons by taking a class or two that you may not be able to participate in at your home university.
4. You Can Work With a Student Visa
Still looking for ways to knock down the price of studying abroad in Australia? Well Australia is far from unique when it comes to visa restrictions. Although international students will be required to have a student visa in order to enter the country, the perks that come along with that visa set the nation apart: student visa holders are eligible for employment in Australia. Working while studying in Australia is something that can really help drive down the cost of an already affordable experience.
5. There’s No Language Barrier
This may seem obvious, but never discount the benefit of studying abroad in a nation that speaks your primary language! The challenge presented by a language barrier can be quite large for an international student, affecting basically every aspect of life, from inside the classroom to daily activities like grocery shopping or even simply reading street signs.