Australia has become one of the most popular study-abroad countries for international students in recent years. According to a United Nations survey, its outstanding quality of life makes it the second-best country in the world.
It continues to rank among the best nations in terms of economic growth, world-class education, and standard of living. Australia boasts highly regarded educational institutions, internationally recognized credentials, and a wealth of educational scholarships.
As such, students from all over the world are studying bachelor’s, master’s, and short-term English language courses in Australia. The country today boasts an all-time high of over 780,000 international students from 192 countries.
This gives one an idea of how crazy students are about studying in Australia! Keep reading as we discuss extensively why international students will choose Australia over other countries to study in 2025/2026.
Studying in Australia Compared to Other Countries
Every country is amazing, but it’s critical to evaluate Australia against the other top countries that draw students from across the world. After comparing the two, one can only determine whether studying in Australia is preferable to studying in other countries.
The United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Germany, and other countries are the top destinations for international students. Let’s take a closer look at some of these in comparison to Australia:
Why Study in Australia Rather Than in Canada?
Canada is the other leading study-abroad destination where international students prefer to study. Both Australia and Canada offer their students the best of what they can provide, and the universities in these countries are in a similar position.
The major difference lies in the availability and credibility of the courses that institutions in these countries provide. Canada offers academic expertise in several disciplines, such as Business Management, Nursing, Engineering, Media, Hospitality and Computer Science.
In contrast, Australia offers educational expertise in fields like Information Technology, Accounting, Education, Healthcare, MBA, and Hotel Management.
Why Study in Australia Rather Than in the US?
Australia has some of the highest living standards globally, and living expenses and tuition fees are lower than in the United States. Moreover, when it comes to safety, the crime rate is much lower in Australia than in the United States.
The low crime rate can be judged by the fact that police officials don’t even carry guns, whereas we are all aware of the gun culture in the US. Furthermore, Australia allows its students to work on and off-campus for up to 48 hours per fortnight during their studies and unlimited hours per week during holidays.
The case is different in the US and is more restrictive. You can only work for up to 20 hours per week during your studies and only on campus in the US. You can only work off-campus in the USA if the job is related to studies.
Why study in Australia Rather Than in the UK?
You have the opportunity to choose from various options throughout your first year of study in Australia. Later on, you can choose fewer options, but in the UK, things are different.
There, you have less opportunity to assess your interests because you are forced to stay in the major you initially chose. The costs associated with living in Australia are another factor that makes studying there much more appealing.
The cost of living in Australia is significantly lower than in the UK. Additionally, Australia’s economy is stronger, and its unemployment rate is lower. This makes it easier for international students to transition and live in a new nation by guaranteeing that they find employment with virtually no problems.
Apart from living expenses and job opportunities, salaries are also, on average, 28% higher in Australia than in the UK.
Factors to Consider Before Studying in Australia
- World’s Best Universities: Australia has some of the top-notch universities in the world that provide a superior-quality education. According to QS World University Rankings 2024, three Australian universities rank in the top 20. The qualifications provided by these universities are recognized by employers worldwide.Â
- Wide Range of Courses: Australian universities offer bachelor’s and master’s degrees in a wide range of study areas. Courses are offered in agriculture, architecture, business, creative arts, engineering, environmental sciences, health, and information technology (IT).
- Practical Learning Experience: Studying in Australia is not about cramming answers and passing exams but about learning real-world skills. The Australian education system is designed in a way that you enter as an ordinary student but come out as an innovative thinker and skilled professional. This is another reason why Australia should be the first choice of an international student.
- Friendly and Welcoming Culture: It’s next to impossible to feel homesick in Australia because of its vibrant and multicultural communities. Students from 192 countries come to study in Australia so that you won’t be the only foreigner.
Best Cities to Study in Australia
As per the QS Best Student Cities Rankings 2024, seven Australian cities are ranked in the top 100 best student cities. A big reason why international students want to study in Australia is that these are the best cities. Here are the seven best cities to study in Australia for international students:
Melbourne: It’s an attractive study-abroad destination for international students, with cultural diversity and a peaceful environment. It hosts the University of Melbourne, which was ranked high in the QS World University Rankings 2024.
Sydney: It remains a popular option because it is a hub of multinational companies that provides high employment opportunities. It is known for its perfect combination of metropolitan city modernity and natural beauty.
Brisbane: This city is famous for its scenic beauty, outdoor lifestyle, multicultural community, and high-quality education at affordable costs. These factors make it one of the top 25 best student cities. Â
Adelaide: It is a city with beautiful natural attractions and is home to prestigious universities, such as the University of Adelaide, the University of South Australia, and Central Queensland University.
Perth: One of the world’s best cities, with the University of Western Australia, which was ranked in QS World University Rankings 2024. It has a lot to offer to international students.
Canberra: The University of Canberra is in Canberra, the capital city of Australia. It has a large population of international students from different countries.
Gold Coast: This last city on the list of best Australian cities is the most affordable and has beautiful views. It also has some of the best educational institutes in Australia, including Griffith University.
Wrapping Up
Australia is a fantastic place to study overseas. It provides international students with a wide range of advantages, such as top-notch instruction, a friendly and safe atmosphere, and exposure to the world. We sincerely hope you now see the benefits of studying in Australia.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is living in Australia better?
Australia is known for being family-friendly with excellent healthcare, childcare, and education systems. It also offers a safe, economically stable environment with a healthy outdoor lifestyle, making it an ideal place to raise children.
Why do people choose to come to Australia?
People migrate to Australia for better economic opportunities, a higher quality of life, and a safe environment. Many are also attracted by Australia’s stability and the prospect of starting afresh away from conflict or hardship in their home countries.
