Fun facts

For students looking to study in Australia, you will be searching for a “course” – that is your major or program of study. It may be an undergraduate (Bachelor) or a postgraduate (Master) course, and you might have a major or specialisation within your course.

The word “college” can mean many different things! In the USA, “college” and “university” are interchangeable as a higher education institution. Students say “I’m going to college in the fall” – whether it’s a large research institution or a state school or a community college. In Australia, college is often senior high school, meaning 11th and 12th grade. Or it can be an academic division of a university, like the College of Engineering. For higher education, Australians call it university, or “uni”.

Accreditation is one way to know that a higher education institution has the authority to grant degrees and provide a good quality tertiary education for students. It’s a good idea to always check that your college or university has regional accreditation, such as the New England Commission of Higher Education.

University degrees in Australia may vary in duration, depending on the type of degree and level of study. A Bachelor’s degree is typically three years. A Bachelor (Honours), which often includes a year of research or practical work, is four years. A Master’s degree is typically two years, but some may be one and a half years. There are also options for Graduate Certificates and Graduate Diplomas, as well as Pathway Programs for students who may not fully qualify for a degree program.

Applications to Australian universities can be simple compared to American college applications. Most universities in Australia only require transcripts and test scores with the application.

American colleges and universities often require transcripts and test scores, as well as an essay, letters of recommendation, evidence of extra-curricular activities, or other documents.

For international students, a passport is required, and evidence of English proficiency (which could be your school transcripts).

Many colleges and universities offer scholarships for international students. These may be based on academic merit, financial need, or in recognition of extracurricular activities. Each institution will have a different policy and amount of funding available. Students should check for “financial aid” to find out more information.