Studing In Australia

Australian Qualifications Framework

Distinguishing Australia from many other countries is the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF). The AQF is a national system of learning pathways covering 12 different qualifications and linking universities, vocational education and training, and school education. The AQF allows students to move easily from one level of study to the next and from one institution to another as long as they satisfy student visa requirements. Recognition of prior learning (RPL) enables students to receive credit toward a qualification for knowledge and skills gained through previous study, training, work and life experience. Even if students partially complete an AQF qualification, they are issued with a Statement of Attainment. Once the status of existing qualifications is established, the AQF means students can choose from appropriate level courses anywhere in Australia.

The AQF also provides more flexibility in career planning and encourages continuous learning to help you through any career and lifestyle changes you make in your lifetime Most courses and training undertaken by international students entering Australia on a student visa are covered by the AQF. However, there are also a number of courses for international students that are registered with the Australian Government which are not part of the AQF. Many of these courses help students meet entry requirements for further study or may lead to further study that will result in an AQF qualification. These courses are usually known as Foundation Studies or Bridging courses.

Vocational education and training qualifications

They meet national industry standards and will prepare you for employment in a host of occupations or for further studies.

The qualifications offered at vocational education and training institutions are :

University Qualifications:

Entry Requirements

Students must meet minimum academic requirements to be accepted into specific courses. Each institution sets its own entry requirements so they may vary from one institution to another and from one course or faculty to another. Some courses also require relevant work experience and this may be particularly important in relation to MBA and other postgraduate studies. You may be asked to provide evidence of your academic achievements and English language proficiency to assess whether you meet the entry requirements for your proposed course of study in Australia. Institutions will look at the level and content of the study you have completed in Australia or your home country.

English language proficiency
English language proficiency is now a requirement when applying for a student visa. The IELTS is the only test accepted by the Australian Department of Immigration and Multicultural Affairs for student visa purposes. Some visa Assessment Levels accept the IELTS entry levels required by the education institution. Australian education institutions can only accept students with an appropriate level of English proficiency. Institutions set their own English language requirements and may have different IELTS entry levels for the proposed level of course than those required for a student visa. If you obtain a score marginally less than what is required for the Australian student visa, you may opt to take an ELICOS (English Language Intensive Course for Overseas Students) in Australia along with the mainstream course.

Academic

	Undergraduate: Undergraduate courses require an Australian Senior School Certificate of Education (Year 12) or the overseas equivalent of Australian high school matriculation, such as three passes at GCE A Levels in appropriate subjects. Some courses may also have certain pre-requisite subjects.
	Postgraduate: Entry to postgraduate courses requires satisfactory completion of a first degree at undergraduate level. Demonstrated research ability or relevant work experience may also be taken into consideration.
	Vocational education and training: Usually there are no other entrance exams to VET institutions. However, some courses may have certain pre-requisite subjects or demonstrated work experience.
	Other Tests GMAT: For most management courses, International students are required to take GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test). Most Australian Universities do not require the GRE for admission to post graduate courses. However it is advisable to enclose a copy of your score sheet if you have done well in the test.
	Work Experience: A number of professional and vocational courses require relevant work experience. For instance, many MBAs or master's courses in information studies require at least a couple of years' work experience

	Higher Studies Assesment Form