Each year, Australia becomes the education destination for thousands of Nepali students as they pursue their higher education. Australia's storied reputation as an education hub stems from its multicultural atmosphere, world-class universities, and innumerable post-study job opportunities.
This guide provides Nepali students with all the necessary information they need in pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Australia. In this guide, we address factors such as eligibility criteria, visa steps, finances, and other aspects to smoothen your Australian educational aspirations.
Why Select Australia for Bachelor's Education?
World-class Institutions and Recognition
Australian universities are consistently ranked as some of the top universities in the world. Eight Australian universities are in the top one hundred of the QS World University Rankings which offers you utd internationally recognized qualifications that will improve your career prospects globally.
Variety of Courses
The country offers bachelor’s programs in virtually every field, with over 22,000 courses offered which span across 1,100+ institutions such as engineering, medical sciences, business, arts, and even emerging technologies.
Employment After Graduation
International graduates can use the Post-Study Work visa which allows them to work in Australia for 2-4 years after completing their education, granting them invaluable international work experience.
Multicultural Environment
International students feel at home very quickly due to Australia's unique atmosphere. The presence of a significant Nepali community will also give you some cultural context while navigating the new perspectives offered.
Eligibility Requirements for Nepali Students
Academic Requirments
Nepali students need to satisfy the below requirements in order to apply for bachelor’s degrees in Australia:
- Higher Secondary Education (10 + 2) or its equivalent must have been completed with satisfactory grades.
- For almost all universities, 60-70% in 10+2 is the minimum requirement (however, this varies across institutions and programs).
- Specific subject prerequisites may be necessary for some programs (especially for STEM disciplines).
English Language Proficiency
All international students are required to demonstrate English language skills through one of these tests:
- IELTS Academic: Overall Score 6.0 - 6.5 (no less than 5.5-6.0 in any band)
- TOEFL iBT: Minimum score between 60 and 80 depending on the university.
- PTE Academic: Minimum score between 50-58.
- Cambridge English Advanced (CAE): Minimum 169-176.
As is the case for other universities, other courses may have more stringent requirements, so ensure that you verify the specific requirements for your chosen program.
Financial Requirements
You need to provide proof of being able to support:
- Tuition costs (usually between AUD 20,000-45,000 per year)
- Living expenditures (at minimum AUD 21,041 per year as stated by visa regulations)
- Initial travel and settlement costs
- An Australian Overseas Student Health Cover policy
Application Instructions for Students From Nepal
Step 1: Research Universities and Programs (3-6 months before application)
Put in the effort to find Australian universities that have programs tailored to your area of interest. Think about:
- University ratings in your area of education
- Course outline sections and offered specializations
- Cities in Australia and their corresponding living costs
- Availability of scholarships
- Admission requirements from students from Nepal
Tip: Develop a spreadsheet that incorporates all the universities and apply all the factors to it.
Step 2: Compile all required documents (2-3 months prior to application deadline)
Obtain all the required documents which include:
- Academic and education qualifications such as certificates for 10th and 12th
- English language skill assessment scores
- Statement of Purpose
- Proof of recommendations (typically 2 or 3)
- Updated Curriculum Vitae
- Valid international passport
- All relevant financial documentation including but not limited to bank account statements, letters of loan approval, and scholarship grant letters
Note: Each of the academic documents needs to be notarized and some may need verification from the Department of Education in Nepal.
Step 3: Application Submission (follow university timelines)
Online applications are accepted in Australian universities via their portals. For bachelor's degrees, the key period for motivation letters and applications are:
- September (Semester 1): Apply by February-March of the previous year.
- January (Semester 2): Apply by June-July of the same year
A payment of AUD 50-100 is to be paid for each university application.
Step 4: Wait and Accept the Offer Letter They Have Provided
In case of positive evaluations, offer letters will be sent within 2-4 weeks after application submission.
Once you get offer letters:
- Evaluate all offers focusing on program quality, available scholarships, and location.
- Confirm and accept the preffered offer by the deadline mentioned.
- Make the initial tuition deposit, usually the first semester tuition.
- Obtain the CoE which is required for the visa application.
Step 5: Apply for Subclass 500 Student Visa
The following steps are for the Australian student visa application process:
- Make an account on the Department of Home Affairs website.
- Complete the visa application.
- Pay the visa fee which is around $630 AUD.
- Provide the following documents:
- CoE
- GTE Statement
- Financial documents showing adequate funds.
- English proficiency results.
- Health insurance SRH.
- Health examination results.
- Character certificates and police clearances.
Processing Time: It takes around 4–6 weeks, but might take longer during peak times.
Step 6: Preparing for Departure
When you’ve received your Visa:
- Purchase tickets (ideally coming one or two weeks prior to orientation).
- Set up accommodation (university’s hostel, homestay, shared flat).
- Buy OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover).
- Inform your university of your arrival details if they have an airport meet and greet service.
- Withdraw some cash for initial expenses.
- Remember to bring the required documents that Customs and Border Protection in Australia may require, Australia’s weather, and any other international regulations during packing.
Conclusion
The availability of a bachelor’s degree in Australia provides an outstanding opportunity for Nepali students as it comes with global career options. There is a meticulously planned approach that requires well-organized finances, but the long-term gains will always outweigh the cost.
You will be able to prepare for your journey from Nepal to the Australian university of your choice by following the specific steps in this guide. Make sure to undertake the initial phases of researching and applying, actively pursue scholarships, and most importantly, reach out to fellow Nepali students already studying in Australia to help familiarize you with the local context.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is passing an IELTS test a compulsory requirement for students from Nepal applying for Australian universities?
The majority does accept IELTS; however, there are multiple other options such as TOEFL, PTE Academic, or Cambridge English, provided by Australian universities. If an applicant did his/her schooling in English, several universities may not need him/her to submit this requirement.
What is the required account balance needed for a student visa application to Australia?
For living expenses in Australia, it is necessary to have around AUD 21,041 for access each year along with tuition fees. Such terms can be fulfilled through personal or relatives’ bank accounts, educational loans, and letters of sponsorship.
Am I qualified for permanent residency after completing a bachelor’s degree?
Yes, Australia offers temporary graduate visas (post-study work visas) for 2 to 4 years post completion of an Australian bachelor’s degree. This allows you to work, and if you meet the requirements, you may seek permanent residency through skilled migration pathways.
Is there affordable housing available for Nepali students in Australia?
Yes, the following are some affordable options:
- On-campus accommodation (AUD 150-350/week)
- Shared student rentals (AUD 120-250/week)
- Homestay with Australian families (AUD 180-300/week)
- Purpose-built student accommodation (AUD 180-350/week)
Many Nepali students stay initially with community connections or in short-term accommodation until they secure long-term housing.
Students Testimonials
"Australia gave me the opportunity to study in a world-class environment and gain international work experience through the post-study work visa. The experience has opened countless doors for my career." – Sanjay Thapa, Nepali student at the University of Melbourne.
"This guide was extremely helpful during my application process. The step-by-step approach gave me a clear understanding of what to expect, and I’m excited to begin my studies at the University of Sydney!" – Priya Sharma, Nepali student at the University of Sydney.
"Applying to universities in Australia seemed complicated, but once I researched and followed the steps outlined in the guide, everything clicked into place. I’m excited to pursue my degree in engineering here, and the post-study work visa will give me the opportunity to gain real-world experience!"– Ravi Gurung, Nepali student, University of Queensland.
