Study in Australia

What English Level do I need to study in Australia
"There are a number of tests available that are designed to assess your English language ability, for example, IELTS (International English Language Testing System), TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) and OET (Occupational English Test).
In Australia, IELTS is the most widely accepted English language test. IELTS is jointly managed by the University of Cambridge, the British Council and IDP Education Australia, and is the main test for students seeking to enrol in study in Australia.
TOEFL is most widely accepted in the United States but Australian institutions also accept TOEFL. Before you take an English language test you should check that it is accepted by your chosen education provider. "

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Australia - Higher Education

HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS

Universities

Australian university awards are widely recognized throughout the world. In India, Australian Degrees are recognized by the Association of Indian Universities, which means they are recognized for the purpose of Government employment and for further study in an Indian university. In some professional fields there may be differences of approach between the different professional associations, so students should check with the university or with Australian Education International at the Australian High Commission in New Delhi.

Research - The quality of Australia's research effort and the strong research culture of the universities is an important strength of the higher education system. Staff at these centers undertakes high level research in a variety of fields. Over 60 Co-operative Research Centers have been established to promote links between the higher education sector and industry and undertake research in specific fields.

Autonomy and control of universities - Universities have a large degree of autonomy and structure their professional courses to satisfy the requirements of the relevant professional bodies to develop their research focus, priorities and strategies and provides for a diversity of research and course offerings. It also allows international students to choose an institution that reflects their priorities and focus of research. There are certain guidelines as codes of conduct which universities have to follow, e.g., the Australian Education Council code of conduct and code of ethical practice of the Australian Vice-Chancellors Committee which ensures that standards are duly maintained in courses offered to international students. Such codes of conduct are endorsed by the Ministry of Higher Education.

The Higher Education Council (a division of the National Board of Employment, Education and Training) is responsible for providing references for quality. In addition the Government has appointed an independent body to oversee quality management. In 1990, the Australian Education Council established the Register of Australian Tertiary Education with responsibility to provide reference for information on accredition.

Australian universities are in reality; fairly autonomous implies that individual institutions have different strengths and capabilities which ensure academic innovation and the basis for research over a range of disciplines. While most Australian universities are self-accrediting a small number of private tertiary institutions submit their courses for external approval. Government provides funds to higher education institutions and ensures the quality of education. There are a number of government agencies and other independent organizations which oversee university operations and offer advice on policies affecting higher education.

TAFE

TAFE was originally a centre of training for apprentices and tradesmen. These are technical courses being taught still along with many more courses, e.g., Business, Accountancy, Para Professional Courses (medical technology), etc. TAFE is owned by the government and is a nationally operated system of colleges. TAFE qualifications are internationally recognized and accepted. TAFE colleges provide world class training and TAFE students have been found to perform better than direct entrants to the Australian university.

TAFE courses are run in all States throughout Australia. There are over 2000 major TAFE colleges to choose from in Australia of which many are located in State capitals. (Refer to map in Annexure V). TAFE courses are varied and are being expanded every year.

Salient features of TAFE

• TAFE is government owned and very stable
• TAFE courses have been conducted for the past 100 years. During this period they have developed valuable industrial linkages for designing their curriculum and training
• Courses in TAFE institutions offer basic English programs, Bridging courses, Foundation courses as well as Diploma and Certificate courses enabling university entry
• The University system offers advanced entry to TAFE students, i.e., TAFE students can enter directly into 2nd year of degree courses. The TAFE credits get transferred to the Degree course
• Teacher pupil ratio is small thereby allowing greater interaction
• TAFE is the biggest manpower trainers for the Australian industry
• TAFE courses are for skilled trades, for those who wish to upgrade their skills, e.g., in electronics, aviation, fashion, office work, navigation, etc. It offers professional training for accountants, architects, engineers, designers, hospitality, industry performing arts and communication
• TAFE system in each state and territory has agreements for advanced standing with a number of universities

Credit transfer and advanced standing - Students are able to graduate with TAFE Diplomas and Associate Diplomas, and receive up to one or two year's credit towards a related university degree through a system of credit transfer agreement established with universities across Australia.

Flexible entry pathways

International Degrees: Australian universities recognize previous studies taken in accredited overseas institutions. Students who have been awarded an undergraduate degree from an overseas institution can apply directly to an Australian postgraduate program. Students working towards an undergraduate degree at an overseas institution can apply to transfer to an Australian undergraduate program with advanced standing. Universities assess these applications on a case-by-case basis, examining the student's academic results and the quality of the course syllabus.

Due to many reasons students fail to enter directly the university degree course. Academically sound and time saving solutions to this problem are the alternative programs of study available in Australia.

Foundation or Bridging Courses: International students applying for admission as first-year undergraduates must meet academic entry requirements equivalent to an Australian secondary school education. Students who do not meet these requirements may apply to a foundation program. A number of universities or university-affiliated organizations offer these programs as an alternative entry pathway to the Australian university system. Foundation programs are intensive one-year preparatory courses that equip international students with the skills set required to enter and complete an undergraduate program.

These programs allow entry into undergraduate studies by intensive education in certain core subjects, apprising them with teaching methods used in Australia, and allowing them time to adapt to their new environment. Normally such a foundation course runs for a year and on its successful completion students are guaranteed a place.

A bridging program is designed for students who have achieved the general standard required to enter an institution, but have not completed a particular area or level of study that is needed for the specific course. Sometimes this happens because a particular subject was not available in the student's secondary school, or because the student did not achieve a high enough grade in the prerequisite subject, while achieving good enough grades overall to meet the general entrance requirement. The most common subjects offered in bridging programs are Physics, Maths and Chemistry.

Bridging studies courses are undertaken by Australian students as well as overseas students, and they do not usually involve English language studies.

The idea behind offering these courses is to provide growing numbers of international students with the knowledge and skills required to succeed in undergraduate studies in Australian universities. The great variation in secondary schooling between our country and Australia, often does not qualify a student for direct entry to Australian universities. The preparation needed is training in academic English, as well as the study of subjects more directly related to the undergraduate courses under consideration.

Students know from the beginning what grades they need to achieve in order to secure their place. They enter their undergraduate course equipped both academically and socially and their results, after one year of undergraduate study, are generally very good.

Foundation year studies comprise those subjects which are directly related to the university course of choice. The universities hence receive students with the required background for their undergraduate studies who understand what is required of them in academic study.

With the success of foundation studies courses, Australia has expanded its mid-year university admissions to accommodate students from other countries. Foundation studies courses are currently being offered throughout the year to fit in with the university intake dates.

How does a foundation studies student progress to a university course - The institution usually agrees that it will accept students who reach a set standard in a foundation studies program.

• The institution announces that it will accept a given number of students into specified undergraduate courses.
• Students whose qualifications are adequate for entry to foundation studies are offered a provisional place in one of these undergraduate courses.
• Students are usually told before they start the foundation studies program that they will be enrolled in the undergraduate course if they achieve certain grades.
• At the conclusion of the foundation studies program, those students who meet the required standard are enrolled in their chosen bachelor degree course.

UNIVERSITY LINK COURSES:

According to the development of collaborative programs between private colleges and universities students at university level can study in a college for a Diploma. Such university link courses enable students to not only obtain university entry qualifications but an advanced standing in degree courses particularly Commerce, Business, Marketing, Computer Science and General Science, etc. These link courses were introduced in mid-1980s to complement the existing alternative pathways - the TAFE network, giving students a wider choice of educational options with the added advantage of still being able to complete a degree within the minimum three-year time frame. The duration of these university access courses range from one year of full-time study to eighteen months or two years of study. The link courses are designed to prepare students for entry into designated degree courses.

Salient features of university `link' courses - These programs have the following features:

• Accredition by the university.
• The academic content is of the same level or identical to equivalent university units.
• Entry requirements are regulated by the university.
• All examinations, tests and assignments are approved and monitored by the university and the results compiled by them.
• University academic staff teaches in the program.
• Library and other resources are available.
• Some students may be granted acceptance into 2nd or 3rd year of the university course based on previous performance.

Outstanding features of the `link' system - The programs are conducted like university courses with two important differences.

Firstly, study group is usually around 50-70 students for ensuring success of students in the program as it specifically addresses the issue of traditional high failure rates among first year university students who have had to study in larger groups. Secondly, workshop experience is also given.

This type of teaching and learning in the college environment with a smaller campus, good teaching environment and personalized service enables the international student to gain confidence and succeed academically before joining the university campus life.

How to get started - Entry to the Diploma and Advanced Diploma programs may be taken on completion of 12-year program from India (CBSE/ICSE), Foundation Studies Program or an Advanced Certificate course.

Accredited Advanced Certificate courses in Business, Accounting, Marketing, Management and Computing are usually for one academic year and provide an excellent option of intensive study for those students who have completed the Australian equivalent of year 11 (often class XII of India) and who are keen on pursuing further studies in business and computing. Courses are in basic business subjects such as Business English, Accounting, Business Law, Statistics, Marketing and Management, Computing and Economics. These courses meet entry requirements to a university, to diploma and advanced diploma programs, and to membership of some professional associations.

The success of these university link courses is apparent by the ever increasing numbers of students enrolling in them and the consistently high percentage of students qualifying who transfer with advanced standing into second year university courses.

QUALITY ASSURANCE

The Australian Government recently developed a National Code of Conduct to provide a nationally consistent and legally enforceable registration framework. The Australian Universities Quality Agency (AUQA) is an independent body that audits processes at Australian universities to assure quality in the areas of teaching and learning, research and management. National Protocols endorsed by the Australian Government in 2000 are being implemented and specify that where an Australian university offers courses at an offshore location or through an agent, that university will be expected to maintain standards equivalent to those provided in Australia.

Accreditation

Universities are established by State or Territory legislation following a detailed assessment of their academic and financial credentials.

The universities are listed on the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) register which indicates that all members of MCEETYA vouch for the quality of the university. Universities then are authorized to accredit their own courses and are responsible for their academic standards. They must have appropriate quality assurance processes in place, including peer assessment processes, external examination of higher degrees and the involvement of professional bodies in the accreditation of particular courses.

State and Territory Government accreditation authorities also accredit higher education courses delivered by non self-accrediting providers.

All courses for international students are listed on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS).website address: www.cricos.detya.gov.au

International reputation

Of interest to Indian students would be the international reputation of their chosen institution. Australian universities are members of an international academic community. Academic staff is appointed on an international basis and Australian academicians and graduates find appointments in institutions overseas, and many famous institutions abroad welcome them which give a measure of the quality of academic work going on in Australia.

A result of this international exchange of academia and graduates are the links being formed between Australian universities and universities abroad. Academic exchange and cooperative research agreements between institutions permit credit transfer and result in mutual recognition of each other's academic standing.

The Australian Vice-Chancellors Committee sponsors University Mobility in Asia and the Pacific (UMAP) Program. This program allows Australia to work with countries in the Asia-Pacific region and encourages academic staff and student mobility, thus enhancing internationalization of curricula and teaching.

METHOD OF INSTRUCTION:

While course structure is uniform between institutions and fields of study, instructional methods vary. Professional fields, such as engineering, medicine and science, include more lectures, tutorials and practical classes than humanities and social sciences where there are fewer hours of formal class. Students in the humanities and social sciences have to spend more time in individual reading and research. Australian undergraduate degrees generally are more specialized, focusing on a smaller variety of subjects. Emphasis is on individual reading and study, data analysis, understanding and applying concepts and theories, and developing the ability to examine critically different arguments and viewpoints. Students have to participate in class discussions to present arguments, discuss and debate subject matter. Teachers initiate discussion and argument to help clarify issues.

At the undergraduate level teaching includes lectures, tutorials, laboratory and field work and supervised practical work. The weightage to each mode is determined by the chosen course of study, e.g., Arts or Commerce students have more lecture and tutorial time than laboratory and field work. Australian education system expects students to undertake a good deal of independent research and reading besides normal study.

It is important for an international student to learn to adapt to these study methods. Lecturers are generally helpful to the students and assist them in the development of new skills.

ASSESSMENT

Methods of assessment too differ from course to course and from institution to institution. Final and mid-year examinations are most important in some courses. In others, progress may be assessed through written assignments spread out over the year, participation and class discussions, practical work and short tests.

Doctorates and research masters degree are assessed by way of a major thesis. Some postgraduate diploma courses and bachelor with honors degrees comprise a minor thesis as part of the assessment.

Grading

Students are graded on individual units or subjects which are counted towards the grant of a degree. In Australian universities two systems are in use: the alpha system (A, B, C, etc.) with plus or minus variables. A+=90% or higher, B-=65%-70%, C=55%, etc. Alternatively they use descriptive grades, e.g., which are High Distinction (HD), Distinction (D) Credit (C),and Pass (P).

ACADEMIC YEAR

The Australian academic year runs from February to November. Australian institutions operate either on a two semester or three term year. Some institutions offer mid year - July entry for some courses.

Australia - Entry into Higher Education Institutions- Application Procedure

THE APPLICATION PROCEDURE

APPLICATION PROCESS
The application process begins with the selection of 3-4 institutions to which you hope to gain admission. For most university, vocational, and school courses you should apply between May and October but certainly not later than the start of November (courses commence around early February and March). Many courses allow students to enroll in the middle of the year. Some private schools have long waiting lists, particularly for Year 7, so school students should make enquiries as early as possible. English language courses are offered throughout the year. When final results are not available enrolling institutions grant provisional acceptance on the basis of previous academic performance.
Despite differences between institutions in acceptance levels and entry requirements, there are certain standard admission requirements which a student must satisfy when applying to any institution. These include:

• Completed application form
• Records of academic work and exam results, sent preferably directly from the school or university to the enrolling institution in Australia. Authenticated copies are acceptable and originals may not be sent. Documents must be accompanied by a certified English translation where the original is in another language. These documents should be accompanied by a profile of institution indicating academic schedules, and any special attributes.
• A personal statement indicating choice of institution and intended study program is especially important for popular courses.
• Proof of English proficiency is required if the student's native language is not English. Where a student has passed international exams in English language proficiency, e.g., TOEFL or IELTS tests, the results should be sent with other academic records. Generally all institutions require non-native speakers of English to take a proficiency test on arrival in Australia, and hence they grant only provisional acceptance until English proficiency requirements have been satisfied. Indian students who have studied in English medium may furnish proof of English proficiency by giving their Board marks.
• Evidence of funds to cover all costs during the study period has to be given.

Students should ensure that they provide the most complete academic record, supported with all the documentary evidence available.
Once a student has been accepted on fulfilling all entry requirements, an acceptance advice (AA) Form is issued to the student by the enrolling institution. This AA form is a very important document and is demanded by Australian authorities before a visa is issued allowing the student entry into Australia.
Application forms for an Australian institution may be obtained from Australian Education Centres. You may also get assistance from:

• IDP Education Australia

International Trade Towers

Suite Nos. 20 & 21

S1 Ground Floor

Nehru Place, New Delhi - 110 019

• Australian Education Centre

Australian High Commission

1/50G, Shantipath, Chanakyapuri ;New Delhi – 110021

Email: aec.india@dfat.gov.au

• Education Reference Centre

Australian Consulate-General’s Office

16th Floor, Maker Tower

Cuffe Parade, Colaba, Mumbai 400 005

Email: aief@bom2.vsnl.net.in

Tertiary admission centres
Most States have tertiary admission centres which manage the entry of students to the universities and some other institutions within that State. Where these centres exist, students should make their application by August or September of the year in which they pass class XI (except for `mature-age' students). Contact the appropriate admission centres to confirm their closing date for applications. Addresses of these centres are listed below:

New South Wales (NSW)
Universities Admissions Centre, Locked Bag 500, Lidcombe NSW 2141

Australian Capital Territory
Same as NSW University Admissions Centre or the institution in which you are interested.

Northern Territory
Contact the institution in which you are interested

Queensland
Queensland Tertiary Admissions Centre, PO Box 1331, Milton QLD 4064

South Australia
South Australian Tertiary Admissions Centre, PO Box 2 Rundle Mall Adelaide SA 5000

Tasmania
Contact the institution in which you are interested.

Victoria
Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre, Suite B, 40 Park Street, South Melbourne VIC 3205

Western Australia
Tertiary Institution Service Centre (Inc.), 39 Fairways, Nedlands WA 6009

CHOOSING THE RIGHT INSTITUTION

Australia offers a variety of opportunities in terms of higher education. The higher education institutions having developed over a period of time differ in infrastructure and popularity. It is a difficult task to select an institution.
Many students may prefer to select an institution on the basis of prestige and fame. These institutions are normally highly selective and competitive and entry is tough. It is suggested that Australia's newer institutions frequently offer equivalent programs which are academically rigorous and just as good. It is not necessarily a question of evaluating the reputation of an institution as a whole, rather it is advisable to clearly identify an intended course of study and then search for a suitable institution.
Cost is another consideration before deciding and selecting an institution or course of study. Tuition fees differ according to the institution and course of study. Science and medical degrees are more costly than humanities degrees. Institutions in the interior of Australia cost less than institutions in large cities. Similarly living expenses vary in cities and the interior.
The choice of institution may be related to the course. Rural universities are better in agricultural disciplines and earth sciences, whereas law and medicine would be offered at urban institutions. Hence before deciding where and what to study you must consider the following:

• What you want to do for a career?
• What has been your academic performance?
• How long do you wish to study?
• What are your financial resources?

Australia - Degrees and Courses

DEGREES AND COURSES

UNIVERSITY COURSES

Undergraduate courses

Bachelor Degrees are granted after a minimum of 3 years of study. Some Bachelor's degrees may need up to 6 years, e.g., Medicine and Veterinary Sciences, etc. Honors courses have more course content and are granted to students who are considered capable. The honors course can be done in an additional year after graduation or additional courses can be taken from the 2nd year of graduation.

Courses offered are in several disciplines:-

Agriculture - Agriculture, Forestry, Parks and Wildlife

Business, Administration and Law - Economics, Accounting, Commerce, Management, Administration, Secretarial Studies, Sales and Service, Law, Justice, Legal Studies

Education - Education Studies, Teaching

Engineering - Chemical, Civil, Electrical, Electronic, Structural, Mechanical, Automotive, Aeronautical, Mining, Industrial, General Engineering, Computer Engineering, Telecommunications

Health Sciences - Medical and Therapeutic Technologies, Nursing, Nutrition, Medical Sciences, Environmental Health, Optometry, Dentistry, Personal and Family Health Care

Humanities - English, Philosophy, History, Ethnic Studies, Foreign Language Studies, Religious Studies, Communications, Women's Studies

Mathematics and Computing - Mathematics and Statistics, Computer-based Information Science, Computer Science

Science - Biological Sciences, Physics, Earth Sciences, Pharmacology, Veterinary Science, Animal Husbandry, Chemistry

Social Studies - Geography, Library and Archival Studies, Behavioral Studies, Welfare and Counseling, Sport and Recreation, Political Science, Sociology

Visual and Performing Arts - Art, Graphic Arts, Fashion Design, Crafts, Performing Arts, Music

Dual degree

Many Australian universities offer a range of double or dual Degree programs. Students can study in two faculties and graduate with two Degrees. Double Degrees generally take four years to complete and are very popular, as they allow the student to obtain two qualifications for just one additional year.

Postgraduate courses

Postgraduate courses are either certificate courses, diploma courses or degree courses.

Postgraduate degree - This is a 2 year course for Bachelor's degree holders. Those who have completed an Honors Bachelor's course can complete the same course in one year. The method of study includes a combination of course work and thesis or even research.

PG certificate - PG Certificate is granted after a semester of study which can be done after a graduate degree.

PG diploma - PG Diploma is granted after 2 semesters of full time study after a Bachelor's degree. These courses are valuable when a student seeks admission to a Master's program. They also provide learning in specific areas.

Master's degree usually takes one year to 18 months while research Master's degree takes 2 years of full time study.

Doctorate (PhD)

This is available to students after post graduation or after honors graduate course. It takes 3 years of full time study.

Graduate students planning to undertake research in an Australian institution at Masters or Doctorate level are assured of considerable research facilities often with state-of-the-art equipment. Institutions in Australia also receive research grants from other government organizations and the industry. Universities also undertake research activities in collaboration with both industry and Government together.

PROFESSIONAL ACCREDITION

Degree programs designed to qualify candidates for entry into various professions, e.g., Medicine, Law, Accountancy, etc., must be approved by professional organizations. Graduation from a course which is accredited fulfills the requirements for entry into the concerned profession.

COURSES THROUGH THE VOCATIONAL ROUTE

Links with university

Many vocational institutions have links and agreements with universities. Through these links, universities offer up to one year of advanced standing into a Bachelor degree as well as guaranteed entry into your course, as long as you achieve the required grades at your vocational institution. Students can achieve two qualifications in the same time it would normally take to achieve one.

These courses are often called degree programs or university transfer programs, and are a well-respected alternative to direct university entry. Students are usually required to complete at least one year of full-time vocational study before transferring to university.

TAFE courses

TAFE courses can be undertaken full time or part time or slotted along with a job. TAFE courses are both for semiskilled and for professional training. Courses cover all fields, e.g., Engineering/Technology, Building and Architecture, Aviation and Maritime Studies, Art and Design, Computing, Music, Computer and Information Science, Applied Science, Hospitality and Tourism, Agriculture, Horticulture, Health, Community, Management and Marketing, Child care, Baking, Gardening, Women's Studies, etc. TAFE courses lead to the award of diplomas and advanced diplomas and certificates. The two and three years courses take the student into 2nd year of degree courses in most cases. This advanced entry into degree courses is becoming increasingly popular in the Asia Pacific region and in India where entry and reentry into competitive courses may be very exasperating. TAFE route is certainly more experiential and safe. TAFE courses offer Certificate, Advanced Certificate, Associate Diploma, Diploma programs.

Certificate courses are designed to provide basic employment skills for some skilled trades. Full time courses take one year to complete.

Advanced Certificate courses are designed to train supervisors. These are also one year courses and credits can be transferred for higher courses.

Associate Diploma courses train junior professionals who have both knowledge and skills for that profession. Training for managerial skills is also incorporated. These courses are of 2 years duration and offer its students advanced placement in TAFE Advanced Diploma courses and in the university degree courses which means a student with a good academic performance may enter university in the 2nd year.

Diploma and advanced diploma courses are of 2/3 years duration and are professional in nature. They combine knowledge and skill training in the course. Diploma holders can complete a university degree in 1to2 years.

TAFE courses may appear quite similar to the Industrial Training Institutes (ITI's) in India but their distinction lies in its facilities and linkages. TAFE institutions have the best possible equipment and laboratories. Very popular and much in demand are specializations such as hotel management, plastic production and manufacture, computer manufacture, etc.

Study routes, quality assurance and credit transfer - TAFE liaises with Australian schools and universities, and is able to provide students with routes into higher education through course articulation and credit transfer (advanced standing).

TAFE courses are accredited by each Australian State or territory which ensures that the quality of curriculum, teaching and resources meets Australian competency standards set by industry.

TAFE courses are widely recognized in Australia by industry, employers and universities. In overseas countries, TAFE is negotiating with polytechnics, ministries of education, universities, employment authorities and professional associations to ensure that the TAFE qualifications gained by international graduates are officially recognized in their home countries.

EXAMPLE OF TAFE PATHWAYS

TAFE Diploma 2 years + University Bachelor = 4 years

Or TAFE Certificate Degree (2 years)

Or TAFE Matriculation (1 year) + University (3 years) = 4 years

Private institutions

Private institutions offer the same range of qualifications as TAFE institutions. Some provide courses in a very wide range of fields while others specialize in one area such as hotel management or aviation. Private vocational institutions also vary in size, ranging from a full-time student population of 50 to 500 students.

Foundation and bridging courses

If you want to enter a university undergraduate course but you do not meet the minimum academic requirements, then foundation and bridging courses will give you the knowledge and skills you need. Usually, you will do the foundation and bridging courses at the university you plan to attend, and the university will hold a provisional place for you in the undergraduate course. Some courses will earn you advanced standing in your university course.

Foundation and bridging courses usually take one year. There is no public examination involved. Your teachers and lecturers will assess you and give you exams to test your level.

Foundation and bridging courses are divided into streams, such as business studies or science studies, which offer a variety of compulsory and elective subjects depending on the individual's English language proficiency and academic qualifications. Courses are very similar to what students would study to achieve the Australian senior secondary school certificate (Year 12).

Classes will be very similar to what you will experience at university with large group lectures and small group tutorials. Small tutorial sizes guarantee that you will get individual attention.

ENGLISH LANGUAGE COURSES

English language courses are for those international students who need to improve their English language skills to prepare them for studies at an Australian institution or for social or work use.

Many universities and VET institutes have English language centers attached to their campuses. There are around 100 private English language centers found in all the capital cities and some rural areas. English language centers do not usually have any entrance requirements.

DISTANCE EDUCATION COURSES

Some Australian universities also have facilities to offer a number of their courses externally. These programs are conducted by the Distance Education Centre (DEC) in certain specified institutions and in some foreign countries. The degree granted is equivalent to an award offered through a regular program on-campus. This system permits overseas students to spend one or two final years on campus in Australia, the rest of their studies can be taken in their home country.

Australia - Entry Requirements and Standardized Tests

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS AND STANDARDIZED TESTS

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

Undergraduate degree
For entry into undergraduate degree courses students should have completed 12 years of school and should have passed in all 5 subjects. Each institution you apply to would review your results in the light of the standards of Australian students.
Australian secondary school certificates are considered equivalent to GCE A-levels as well as the International Baccalaureate. Students from India usually need to complete an Australian foundation year. Some Australian universities offer this course of 1 year duration in the home country, e.g., in the Middle East some universities have started one year foundation courses so that before students go onto the degree course in the university they are familiarized to the higher education system in Australia. Similar linkages are being worked out also with India.

Pre-requisite subjects and entry requirements - Some courses define `pre-requisite subjects'. i.e., a student must have passed a subject as part of entry qualification. Pre-requisite subjects differ from course to course, e.g., a Bachelor of Commerce might require Mathematics, and a Bachelor of Engineering might require Advanced Mathematics as well as Calculus, Physics and Chemistry while a Bachelor of Arts degree might have no pre-requisites. A course, in art and design, expects students to submit portfolios of their work with their applications.
Those who have passed class XII in India or equivalent, and have the required subjects, have also to meet a minimum standard of entry set for international students for each course.
Entry requirements vary in the same university for different courses as well as for same courses in different institutions. Requirements may change from one year to the next particularly as the number of applicants and vacancies change. Some courses and some universities may be ranked higher according to demand on a yearly basis.
Some universities are more popular than others, especially older universities located in major cities. For example an average of over 90% is needed for entry into a business course at the University of Sydney, as compared to 65% for a similar course at a smaller university.
Universities publish their minimum standards of entry which gives an idea to the applicant as to the chances he or she has of getting in.

TAFE
The unique feature of TAFE is that it offers class X and XI students entry to its certificate and advanced certificate courses.
This information may be of particular interest to students who would like to acquire training for a specialized skilled job. The international exposure would be of great benefit particularly in the changing socio-economic scenario in the country.

Students who wish to upgrade their English can enroll for English language preparatory courses simultaneously. TAFE also offers bridge courses and foundation studies. Students passing class XII in the 1st division from CBSE or equivalent board are granted admission to advanced diploma (2/3 years) and diploma courses (2 years). Students passing class X in the 1st division can enroll in certificate II-III-IV level courses which are of 6 months to one year duration.

Entry to postgraduate programs
Postgraduate programs are also selective. International students with a bachelor’s degree from a good recognized university may apply. Proficiency in the English language is essential since universities expect higher standards for postgraduate programs. Entry to postgraduate programs can be quite complex. Universities prefer to admit students on individual merit.

MBA Courses - MBA programs generally prefer applicants with relevant work experience, but this varies from course to course or from university to university. MBA courses generally follow an interactive teaching approach, with emphasis on participation, teamwork and case studies as well as project work in the industry on real management and strategic issues.

IT Courses - Admission to a Bachelor of IT or Bachelor of Computing program requires knowledge of mathematics. Master of Information Technology (MIT) courses generally require a Bachelor Degree in a computing or a related course. Alternative pathways are available under the Australian Qualifications Framework. For example Diploma course in IT could lead to a Bachelor program. Many universities give a one-year credit for a two-year Diploma course, and students may get admission into the second year of the Bachelor course. Similarly, a student without Bachelor qualifications in IT could apply to do a Graduate Diploma in IT (usually a one-year course) which may to the second year of an MIT program.
In addition to the popular Bachelor of IT and Master of IT courses, there are several other computing related areas of study such as Information Systems, Business Systems, Digital Systems, Multimedia, Software Engineering, Network Computing or Information Management.

Doctoral studies
For doctoral studies (Ph.D.) selection committee reviews if work already done in the post-graduate course is comparable to that completed by a student of an Australian university who has obtained a Masters Degree and has adequate research preparation. Admission to a Ph.D. program is made by the relevant university

ADVANCED PLACEMENT:
Advanced placement implies joining a course with an advantage of time on the basis of academic work done in Australia or even outside. This is particularly used at postgraduate level, although undergraduates are also accepted on the basis of advanced standing since standards differ from country to country, students academic credentials have to be assessed on an individual basis. This assessment determines the credit that may be given to overseas qualifications, contributing or equating them to an Australian degree.

ENGLISH LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS AND TESTS
At all Australian universities English is the language of instruction. An applicant has to provide evidence of proficiency in the English language. Generally, universities have the following entry requirements for bachelor degrees from international students:

• An overall score of at least 6.0 in the international English language testing system (IELTS).
• A score of at least 550 in the test of English as a foreign language (TOEFL) and a score of at least 4.5 in the test of written English (TWE)

`Conditional offer' is made if a student meets the academic entry requirements but not the English language requirements. English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students (ELICOS) help students to meet the required standard.

IELTS
IELTS was introduced in Australia in 1989. It has become popular in Australia as it was specifically designed to measure English language ability of overseas students wishing to take further education in an English-speaking country. The test has four sections to get a profile of an individual's language ability. Each candidate has to take two general subjects, listening and speaking, and two specialized subjects, reading and writing. Since April 1995, students have a choice between two modules the academic module and the general training module. The academic module is designed for students intending to study at undergraduate or postgraduate level. The general training module is for non-university courses, and is suitable for candidates seeking certification for employment. IELTS is scored on a scale from 1 to 9, with an overall score of 6.5 normally acceptable for university entrance. For TOEFL, institutions set the expected level at which they require a student to perform.

TEST CENTRES IN INDIA:

IELTS Administrator
British Deputy High Commission
British Council Division
Mittal Tower "C" Wing, 2nd Floor
Nariman Point Mumbai - 400 021

IELTS Administrator
British Deputy High Commission
British Council Division
5 Shakespeare Sarani
Calcutta - 700 071

IELTS Administrator
British High Commission
British Council Division
Kasturba Gandhi Marg
Connaught Place, New Delhi - 110 001

IELTS Administrator
British Deputy High Commission
British Council Division
737 Anna Salai
Chennai - 600 002
IELTS test centres of IDP are operative in Delhi, Chandigarh, Chennai and Bangalore.

English language training for the student with language deficiency - When an overseas student enters an Australian institution of higher education at undergraduate level, he may require some additional training in English; the enrolling institution indicates the amount of extra study needed for entry into a proposed course of study. All universities require a minimum standard of spoken and written English, and the standard varies depending on the university and the proposed course of study. Many universities have their own language centres to prepare students for higher study alternatively they make arrangements with a TAFE institution where English courses are offered. There are private English colleges throughout Australia, most of these colleges offer English for academic purposes. In Australia English Language Colleges conduct ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students) which has a wide variety of courses in addition to preparing students for further study.

Australia-Professional Courses

PROFESSIONAL COURSES

MEDICAL EDUCATION

Conventional and new

The undergraduate medical qualification in Australia is the MBBS or the combined Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery course. The conventional program is 6 years in duration. After a broad medical education, graduates take their internship. This is a pre-registration training of one year duration very much like in India. After this are various postgraduate specializations. Internship follows the final year of a medical degree program and this internship can also be undertaken in the home country of the international student.

The undergraduate medical courses in Australia are accredited by the Australian Medical Council.

In the first 3 years of MBBS the focus is on pre-clinical studies while the final year is spent largely in hospitals and in community based work. This practical training is an experience in major clinical specialization such as medicine, surgery, psychiatry, general practice, child health and gynecology.
Australian medical schools give opportunity to the best students to pursue research for an additional year. This is aimed at providing medical research experience and a research degree.
Entry to the six year program is based on a students result in the final year at school. Fresh entrants to medical schools, hence, are drawn from the top one per cent of the high school graduating class. Proficiency in Biology, Chemistry, Maths and Physics generally determine the student’s eligibility. There are, however, certain universities, e.g., the University of Newcastle which involves several procedures including individual interviews for selection. Entry into undergraduate courses in medicine also requires evidence of an adequate level of English language proficiency.

New medical degree courses

In a major departure from the conventional British type model three of Australia's leading medical schools have developed new four-year medical degree courses which are open to students who hold an undergraduate university degree in any field of study. These innovative courses are designed for students who have already developed effective skills for learning, critical analysis and problem solving at university. They represent a major new direction for medical education in Australia. Of the 540 places offered annually across the three schools, more than 50 places are available to outstanding university graduates from other countries - that is, to people who are not permanent residents of Australia. International places are available on a full-fee basis.
In the transition to four-year graduate entry programs, an important aim has been to develop curricula appropriate for training doctors in times of rapid change in medical knowledge and community expectations.
Although the curriculum at each campus places strong emphasis on the active involvement of students in learning, coupled with hands on clinical experience in a broad range of clinical settings emphasis is laid in the interaction of doctors with individual patients, families and communities.

Characteristic features of the new medical course are:

• It has innovative curricula based on clinical problems
• It allows extensive patient contact and clinical experience from 1st year
• It provides integration of basic medical science with clinical medicine
• It offers excellent research opportunities

The graduate entry medical programs create new opportunities for gaining entry to medical training in Australia. Admission requirements have been designed to attract applicants with diverse backgrounds and experience.
Although applicants will require appropriate knowledge and skills for success in an admissions test, there are no specific prerequisite high school or university subjects.
Admission is highly competitive, based on three criteria. The way in which these elements are combined will vary from school to school.

Eligibility:

• Performance in an undergraduate degree
• Scores in a written admission test: Graduate Australian Medical School Admission Test (GAMSAT) or North American Medical College Admission Test (MCAT)
• Performance in a structured interview

Applicants must have performed well in an undergraduate program. The full requirements for the degree must be completed prior to admission (although the admissions test may be undertaken while undergraduate studies are in progress). The degree may be in any field but must be considered equivalent, at least, to a three-year Australian university degree.

Admissions Test (GAMSAT) & (MCAT): All applicants will be required to sit in a comprehensive written admissions test to provide evidence of the knowledge and skills considered necessary for graduate medical studies. Test results are required before submitting an application to medical school and potential applicants will normally sit in an admissions test a year or more before they hope to enter medicine.

International applicants may choose to take either the Graduate Australian Medical School Admissions Test (GAMSAT) or the North American Medical College Admission Test (MCAT). Test results remain valid for two years.

Overall scores on the admissions test are used in identifying candidates for interview.

Australian admissions test, GAMSAT, is conducted by the Australian Council for Educational Research (ACER) in February each year at a number of centres around Australia. Overseas test centres have been established from 1996.

North American test, MCAT, is conducted twice each year in about April and September at many locations in USA and Canada and at overseas centres in Singapore, Japan, England, France, Germany, Israel and Lebanon.

Both tests require a good command of English, skills in analysis, logical reasoning and problem solving and knowledge of aspects of biology, chemistry and physics.

Interviews - Top ranking applicants are invited to participate in structured interviews. Interviewers assess proficiency in spoken English and other qualities considered important for participation in the educational process at graduate medical school and for effective medical practice.
The Graduate Australian Medical Schools Admission Guide and application materials can be requested from the National Admission Service. Application may be submitted to ACER giving preference for Flinders, Queensland or Sydney universities.
The application deadline is May 31st for entry in February in the subsequent year.

Cost of undergraduate medical education
The current average annual tuition cost for the existing six-year degree is in the region of $25,000 or $150,000 in total. Tuition fees for the new degree are likely to be in the region of $120,000 in total. As an applicant seeking admission to the new degree program does not have to complete his or her first degree in Australia, this represents a considerable saving. Prospective medical students who decide to take their first degree in, for example, Science in Australia average $14,000 hence the cost is only marginally greater.

Postgraduate medical training
Postgraduate medical education is conducted by professional associations of doctors called `Royal Colleges' and not by universities. The college sponsors training in the major specialties. This training extends from 7 to 10 years. During training candidates are employed in approved posts in hospitals and after the training they are awarded a degree which permits specialized practice. An international student must first secure a training position which is not quite easy to get. Postgraduate award courses are conducted by each university. Following are some addresses for reference:

Faculty of Medicine; the University of Queensland
Herston Road, Herston QLD 4006
Australia

Faculty of Medicine; the University
International Education Office 12 O7
The University of Sydney, ASW 2006; Australia

Information about GAMSAT; ACER, Private Bag 55
Camberwell VIC 3124, Australia

Information about MCAT
Association of American Medical Colleges
2450 N St. NW; Washington DC 20037-1126, USA

Universities following the new degree course

School of Medicine
University of South Australia
International Office
Flinders University
GPO Box 2100, Adelaide SA 5001
Australia



ENGINEERING EDUCATION
Enrolment for engineering courses needs preliminary study of relevant courses before being enrolled for higher degree. This is specifically in relation to undergraduate degree in subjects related to engineering as also English language preparation. Admission to masters and doctorate programs is usually restricted to those who have the equivalent of an honors level degree in the relevant discipline in Australia. Entry to all postgraduate engineering courses requires evidence of an adequate level of English language proficiency generally demonstrated by the IELTS or TOEFL tests.

Courses in engineering
Diploma programs provide specialist professional skills and build on study in the same area. Postgraduate diplomas enhance skills acquired during graduate study while graduate diploma programs are available to people with a general background of science.
Masters or postgraduate qualifications may have the following names: Master of Engineering, Master of Science, Master of Applied Science etc.
Institutions differ in course structures and entry requirements, e.g., a Master in Engineering may be awarded by one university after supervised study or research while another university may confer the degree without such supervised course work. Postgraduate students who wish to do Doctoral work certainly need credits earned out of research during postgraduate study.
Doctorate in engineering can be earned only by research. PhD is given after supervised research work while D.Eng. (Doctor of Engineering) is given after unsupervised research. There are some courses which do not earn a formal award but can be done by practicing engineers. Such courses are accredited by institution of Engineers for professional recognition.

Course duration - Diploma courses are generally for one or two semesters. Masters degree normally takes 2 years while doctoral studies may take 3 years or more.

Accredition of engineers
The Institution of Engineers is the accrediting organization. Bachelor degree holders in engineering from most engineering departments are exempted from the exams of the Institution of Engineers. However if an engineer takes a Master's degree in engineering from an accredited university after a Bachelor's degree from a non-accredited university, such an exemption is not given .

COURSES IN VISUAL ARTS AND TV COURSES
University courses in visual arts are designed to prepare talented people to enter the industry. Courses in visual arts are offered at twenty-two Australian universities. These courses are offered at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. While all of these institutions have undergraduate courses available in painting, involvement in other visual arts areas such as ceramics, photography, drawing, sculpture, and graphic design, is offered only in some institutions. The visual arts course structure of each university varies considerably and the applicant must check to see whether the course a student is seeking is actually offered at the university at which he or she is thinking of enrolling. Generally, undergraduate courses in the visual performing arts are of three years duration (full-time), while postgraduate courses vary in length depending upon their being at Graduate Diploma, Masters, or Doctoral level.
Film and television courses in Australian universities lay emphasis on theory and critical studies and vary in practical production training. The two major well known production courses in Australia are at the School of Film and Television, the Victorian College of the Arts, and the Australian Film, Television and Radio School in Sydney.

COURSES IN AVIATION
Aviators can choose ambitious careers apart from the most obvious - that of an active pilot. Passenger operators, cargo operations and many other occupations offer exciting career options in the industry.
In the past few years Australian universities have developed degree courses for pilot education and training. Courses in Aviation have been developed in universities in each State. The Australian University Aviation Association - (AUAA) has been formed of Australian universities which offer professional degree courses in aviation. The aims of the association are to help the development of university aviation education and flight crew development.

Membership of the Association ensures high standards of education and is open to those universities which are offering degree level programs involving pilot training.

The following universities are members of the Association:

• University of Western Sydney (New South Wales)
• University of New South Wales (New South Wales)
• Edith Cowan University (Western Australia)
• Griffith University (Queensland)
• University of Newcastle (New South Wales)
• Swinburne University of Technology (Victoria)
• Massey University (New Zealand)
• University of South Australia (South Australia)
• University of Tasmania (Tasmania)

Although all these universities offer degrees in aviation fulfilling Civil Aviation Authority requirements, their courses differ in emphasis on subjects other than those required by the Civil Aviation Authority. Some lay emphasis on engineering, some in human factors and performance, while others concentrate on management aspects of aviation.
Students from India must ensure that the training in an Australian university meets the requirement of the Indian industry from DGCA (Director General of Civil Aviation) in New Delhi.

COURSES IN BIOLOGICAL SCIENCE

Undergraduate courses
Undergraduate courses in biological sciences are BS or Bachelor of Science degree course. A typical BS program includes biology, chemistry, physics, maths or psychology. Other related subjects are zoology, biochemistry, ecology, botany, genetics, cell biology, anatomy, microbiology, immunology, life sciences etc. Most universities offer these subjects with special emphasis in honors programs.

Postgraduate courses
Postgraduate and PhD courses in biological sciences entail either research work or submission of a major thesis or coursework only. PG degree takes generally 2 years. The PhD course can be taken after an honors BS course or a Master of Science course. It generally takes 3 to 4 years to complete. Postgraduate diplomas may take a year’s time. Colleges of Technical and Further Education (TAFE) offer courses in biological sciences which trains students to carry out a range of technical functions in support of professional scientists and or technical officers. There are certificate/advanced certificate and associate diploma levels. Courses emphasize on practical training to develop technical knowledge and skill which can be applied to various areas such as ecology, botany, zoology, biotechnology, microbiology and biological instrumentation. TAFE courses can gain credit towards university degree courses.

Entry requirements
Entry requirements to an undergraduate (BS) course are a good performance in Secondary Education (+2) with relevant subjects. To enter TAFE courses in Australia students may require an average performance at the +2 stage. Postgraduate courses can be taken after approval of the chairperson of the departments and the head of the faculty or research units at the institution. Excellent grades in undergraduate courses are needed for studying in a competitive environment.
Entry to all biological science courses requires evidence of an adequate level of English proficiency.
Australia has interesting biological resources in unique species of plants and animals thereby making it an ideal place for studying biological sciences.It has evidently evolutionary relationships with the Asian region and is an example of diverse environments. From tropical rainforests and alpine areas to arid ecosystems it has a long coastline and the world's largest coral reef ecosystem, making it an excellent place for the study of biological sciences.

COURSES IN MARINE SCIENCE
Marine science is a combination of disciplines such as marine biology, oceanography, marine archaeology, marine geology, engineering technology, geography, economics, maths, etc. Marine scientists have a number of job opportunities. The sustainable development of wild fisheries and expansion of mariculture is largely dependent on the work of marine biologists and related scientists. Coastal and ocean engineers along with food technologists are involved in developing technology to access the ocean resources.

Courses
Marine Science courses in Australian universities are structured to provide in the first 2 years a basic grounding in science disciplines. The marine science course majors are conducted in the third year. Majors in such diverse areas such as marine biology, fishery science, marine chemistry, physical oceanography, marine geosciences etc. are offered.
After 3 years a student is able to identify for himself the area of marine science which he will like to pursue. He can then study for another year for an honors degree in the subject, a large component of which will be research.
Postgraduate programs are available throughout Australia.