The education system in Australia is one of the most dynamic and innovative in the world. Like other countries, the three-tiered system has early childhood, secondary and higher education levels.
Suppose you’re interested in studying abroad and want to learn about the education system in Australia. In that case, this education ONE article will provide you with all the necessary information to prepare for your studies. Here’s a sneak peek of what you can expect to read in this article:
- Overview of the Education System in Australia
- Quality Assurance of Australian Education for International Students
- Levels of the Education System in Australia
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Options for Unqualified from Education Systems in Australia
You can tap the title above to read what you want to know, or if you’re going to read one by one, you can scroll down. Happy reading!
Overview of the Education System in Australia
The education system in Australia is considered one of the best education systems in the world for both domestic and international students.
You can be sure of unmatched quality education, internationally recognised qualifications and excellent job opportunities when you study in Australia. Australian universities are renowned for their research and training approaches, making them a popular destination among worldwide students.
Academic excellence, a great campus atmosphere and qualified professors are some of the main reasons Australian universities consistently rank high in the QS World University and Times Higher Education Rankings.
You will receive a well-structured curriculum focusing on developing various skills, such as critical thinking, creativity, communication, literacy, analytical thinking, ethical understanding, and more.
Australia provides a diverse selection of courses, with over 22.000 courses offered by more than 1.100 educational institutions. Additionally, Australia boasts seven top-rated student cities worldwide, such as Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth, and Brisbane.
Regardless of what you study or how long you study, Australian law provides protection and ensures quality education for international students.
Also Read: Is a Study Gap Acceptable in Australian Universities?
Quality Assurance of Australian Education for International Students
An international student has rights and protections set out in Australian law. These rules ensure everyone is treated fairly and has access to high-quality education system in Australia.
The Commonwealth Ombudsman’s responsibility to ensure the fulfilment of these rights is to investigate complaints raised by international students against education providers, whether they are schools, colleges or universities in Australia.
The services provided by the Ombudsman are free, impartial, and accessible to current, past, and future students, ensuring the Australia’s education system remains fair and transparent.
CRICOS
The Australian Government must authorise all courses offered to international students through CRICOS to ensure quality and consistency of education system in Australia.
CRICOS stands for Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students. For those of you who are international students on an Australian Student Visa, it is important to choose institutions and courses that are registered with CRICOS.
This registration guarantees that the institution and course you choose meet the high standards expected of international students wishing to study in Australia.
Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act
The Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act protects international students in Australia. The main objective of this act is to guarantee the quality of education and training services offered to international students in Australia and enhance their educational experience.
These rules govern the welfare of international students and set out the standards that Australian education providers must meet to offer education to international students. The ESOS and the National Code also regulate the responsibilities of providers in managing their network of educational agents, ensuring a robust and reliable education system in Australia.
In addition, the ESOS Act supports migration in Australia by ensuring the collection and reporting of relevant information relating to Australian Student Visas.
Tuition Protection Service (TPS)
Australia has been at the forefront of protecting the rights of international students in recent years. Recent changes to the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act have strengthened protections for international students by introducing the Tuition Protection Service (TPS).
TPS is an initiative of the Australian Government which aims to assist international students when education providers cannot deliver paid courses and fail to meet their obligations to offer suitable alternative courses. This further ensures the integrity and reliability of the education system in Australia.
TPS also helps obtain tuition refunds from institutions if they still need to start or stop their studies. With TPS, students can continue their studies at other courses or institutions or receive refunds of unrealised tuition fees.
Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF)
In 1995 the Australian Government introduced the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF). This framework is a national system governing qualifications at various levels of education, including schools, Vocational Education and Training (VET), and higher education.
The Australian Government introduced the AQF, intending to establish a standard of educational qualifications in the country. This system assists international students in choosing Australia’s top universities and courses.
The AQF qualification ensures that the educational institution you choose has recognition from the government and that the qualifications provided are recognised nationally and internationally. AQF is committed to maintaining consistency and high education standards throughout the country.
AQF consists of 10 levels, giving domestic and international students flexibility to choose a study program according to their preferences.
| Level | AQF |
| Doctoral Degree | Level 10 |
| Master Degree | Level 9 |
| Bachelor Honours Degree | Level 8 |
| Graduate Diploma | |
| Graduate Certificate | |
| Bachelor Degree | Level 7 |
| Associate Degree | Level 6 |
| Advanced Diploma | |
| Diploma | Level 5 |
Let’s discuss the AQF level from Vocational Education and Training (VET) in Australia.Level.
| Level | AQF |
| Vocational Graduate Diploma | Level 8 |
| Vocational Graduate Certificate | Level 8 |
| Advanced Diploma | Level 6 |
| Diploma | Level 5 |
| Certificate IV | Level 4 |
| Certificate III | Level 3 |
| Certificate II | Level 2 |
| Certificate I | Level 1 |
Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA)
The Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA) is Australia’s independent higher education regulatory and quality assurance agency. Every higher education institution operating in Australia is required to be registered under TEQSA supervision. TEQSA’s goal is to protect students’ interests and maintain the reputation of the Australian higher education sector.
They achieve this goal by adopting a balanced, risk-responsive approach and providing quality assurance supporting diversity, innovation and excellence in higher education.
Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA)
The Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA) is the national regulator for Australia’s Vocational Education and Training (VET) sector. They aim to build trust among students, employers and government regarding the quality of vocational education and training offered by Australian universities.
The agency’s role includes ensuring that students receive the best possible education and infrastructure while also assisting universities in maintaining a reputation that contributes to their global recognition.
Interested in experiencing world-class education system in Australia? Secure your complimentary consultation and learn about the diverse range of academic opportunities available. Let our team of experts steer you towards a fulfilling and enriching educational experience.
Levels of the Education System in Australia
Education in Australia is broadly similar across the states and territories, although minor differences exist.
Children aged 6 to 16 must attend primary and secondary education levels, including the first ninth and tenth years. The total study period reaches 13 years, divided into four sub-sectors:
- Early childhood education: A seven- or eight-year program from preschool to sixth- seventh year.
- Secondary education: Lasts for three or four years, starting from the seventh to the tenth year or the eighth to the tenth year.
- Upper secondary education: Runs for two years, namely in the eleventh and twelfth years.
- Higher education: This further education level includes diplomas and higher education programs.
Intrigued by each detail? Let’s discuss them one by one.
Early childhood education
Early childhood education is crucial in preparing children for their upcoming school experience.
During this phase, education system in Australia aims to assist children in effectively engaging in learning and developing their overall abilities.
Early childhood education is the initial stage of the Australia’s formal education system. Its main objective is to teach children the significance of teamwork, building positive relationships, expressing creativity, and honing their communication, reading, writing, and arithmetic skills.
These skills will help them to learn and progress in the future successfully.
Primary school
Primary school provides educational programs from the foundation to the sixth year. At the primary education level, attention is paid to developing literacy, numeracy, and crucial intellectual and social-emotional skills.
In addition, knowledge of the world around them is also part of learning.
Secondary education
Secondary education consists of the seventh to tenth years. After that, students can move on to High School or college to complete school years 10, 11, and 12.
Gradually, you will be given more specific subjects according to your chosen interests and talents.
The secondary school education system in Australia follows the national curriculum framework. Subjects taught include mathematics, science, history, languages, geography, arts, health and physical education, information and communication technology, citizenship, economics, and business.
Upon completion of the school year 12 or equivalent, you will be awarded a Certificate of Upper Secondary Education, and you can continue your studies or start a career.
Vocational Education and Training (VET)
The education system in Australia that many international students are looking for is Vocational Education and Training (VET).
The main goal of VET is to provide you with the applicable skills and experience to be effective in various jobs. VET is provided by Registered Training Organizations (RTO) and the Australian government through TAFE.
VET can start from high school, and there is usually a pathway to college for a person to go on to university with grades that can be converted into university assessments.
Vocational Education and Training is based on a partnership between the Australian government (federal and state) and industry bodies to accelerate access to the world of work after graduation.
Many vocational courses integrate a period of on-the-job training and classroom or online learning.
VET qualifications cover many, from Certificates I, II, III, and IV, to Diploma and Advanced Diploma programs tailored to the year of study, skills, and work competencies acquired.
Degree program
At the undergraduate level in college, you study to earn a bachelor’s degree, which is the first step in preparing for a professional career.
Completing a bachelor’s degree involves at least three years of full-time study. However, some institutions also offer accelerated programs that allow completion of the degree within two years.
Postgraduate and Doctoral Programs in Australia
Australian universities offer a wide range of postgraduate course options, which will allow you to pursue study in a new field or enhance your career opportunities.
- Graduate Certificate: After completing a bachelor’s degree, you can get a Graduate Certificate with an additional six months of study. This program aims to broaden skills related to a particular bachelor’s degree or job.
- Graduate Diploma: After an additional year of study, you can earn a Graduate Diploma. This program is designed as an initial step towards a master’s degree or to develop a higher level of expertise in the current job.
- Masters programmes: Masters degrees in Australia usually take one to two years to complete. These programs can be independent research, traditional courses, or a combination. Its main goal is to help you become a leader in your chosen field of study.
- Doctoral Degree: The doctoral degree is the highest award offered at Australian universities. Also known as a PhD, this program involves original research presented as a thesis. The doctoral degree contributes significantly to knowledge in your field of study. Typically, doctoral degrees take about three years to complete.
Take the leap towards a top-tier Australia’s education system! Book your free consultation and explore the vast array of study options, renowned universities, and specialised programs. Our advisors are here to help you make the best choices for your future.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the five most frequently asked questions about the education system in Australia by our clients.
Does Australia have a good education system?
The education system in Australia is quite good. The Federal government has an education department responsible for setting standards that states must meet.
In addition, they provide recommendations regarding the allocation of the education budget according to the size and needs of the population in each state.
How long is education in Australia?
Basic education:
- Kindergarten (Kindergarten): 1 to 2 years.
- Elementary School (Primary School): 6 years
Secondary education:
- Junior High School (Secondary School): 3 to 4 years.
- Senior Secondary School: 2 years.
Higher education:
- TAFE (Technical and Further Education): 6 months to 2 years.
- Bachelor’s Degree: 3 to 4 years.
- Masters (Master’s Degree): 1.5 to 2 years.
- Doctorate (Doctoral Degree/Ph.D.): 3 to 4 years.
What is the purpose of the education system in Australia?
The education system in Australia aims to provide a quality education that covers several important aspects, such as; intellectual abilities, practical skills, creativity, and ethics.
What month is the new school year in Australia?
The new school year in Australia generally starts in January or February (odd semesters) and July or August (even semesters).
How is the education system in Australia?
Australia’s education system is recognised worldwide for its high quality and easy access. The system follows a decentralised approach, with each state and territory managing its education system.
The system includes early childhood education, primary and secondary schooling, and various tertiary education options, including universities and vocational training. The curriculum is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education combining academic knowledge and practical skills.
Furthermore, the system is renowned for promoting a culture of research and innovation, which has helped establish Australia as a higher education and research centre.
Also Read: Why Study in Regional Australia is More Than Just a Degree – It’s a Life-Changing Experience
How good is the education system in Australia?
Australia’s education system is widely acknowledged for its high standards. The country consistently performs excellently in various international education evaluations, reflecting its dedication to providing quality teaching and research.
Its universities are highly respected and attract a considerable number of overseas students. The government prioritises education and has introduced policies to enhance the system continually. Nonetheless, the system faces challenges, such as ensuring equal access to education for all students and addressing regional inequalities.
Options for Unqualified Education Systems in Australia
You can apply to a pathway, foundation, or credit transfer program if you still need to meet the entry criteria for a particular course or university.
Pathway and Foundation Programs
Pathway and foundation programs have a similar goal: to prepare you with the necessary knowledge to participate in the desired program or course. However, there are differences in the implementation of these two programs.
Pathway programs are generally organised by third parties, such as TAFE institutions, which help you prepare for university.
Meanwhile, the university’s foundation program has a curriculum designed to equip you with the relevant knowledge to participate in a study program.
Don’t miss the opportunity and get expert advice on schooling options, study pathways, and scholarships, including specialised pathways and foundation programs for your chosen field of study, contact us NOW.
Is it possible to transfer credit from my country to Australia?
Did you know that you can transfer your university credits to Australia? Remember, the process and requirements for transfer may vary depending on the university and program you’re interested in.
It is important to research well between your current university and a university in Australia to ensure that credits already earned will be received and to understand the requirements.
The Education System in Australia is Easily Accessible to Students
Australia is a popular destination for studying and for good reason. The education system in Australia is highly regarded. It provides a multi-layered guarantee that covers a wide range of aspects, ensuring that international students have peace of mind regarding their studies.
If you’re interested in immersing yourself in the Australia’s education system in 2025, education ONE can assist you with preparation. We’ll help you plan an unforgettable study experience that aligns with your future goals.
- We partner with Australian universities to ensure you get the best experience from your chosen study
- Over ten years of experience helping students from all over the world pursue their dream studies
- Has a rating on Google and Facebook 4.9/5 for our customer satisfaction
education ONE is an experienced education agent with in-house Migration Agents. If you are still wondering whether you have met all the requirements for your Migration through a Study plan in Australia, book a FREE study and Student Visa Consultation with one of our Career Development Consultants.
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We look forward to assisting you with your study, visas and dream of working after studying in Australia.
