The flight of students to countries around the world in pursuit of higher education has a long history in Nepal. Nowadays, the concept of studying abroad is becoming increasingly popular and Nepali students are pursuing internationally reputed and recognised degrees in the hopes of paving their way to a successful career.

With the third largest international student enrollment, behind only the US and UK, Australia is among the top destinations for international students, including those from Nepal who look for a more comprehensive and cosmopolitan exposure in their educational experience. The number of Nepali students flying to Australia soared from 2007-2009 after it liberalised visa regulations. However, the number fell remarkably after the Australia n government adopted stringent policies while granting student visas.

The introduction of a more streamlined visa policy from March 2012 onwards has led to a rise in figures yet again. According to the record of the Nepalese Association of Australia n Education Representatives (NAAER), the visa success rate—which was just around 30 percent till June 2012—almost doubled in six months. Of around 1,300 prospective students who applied for student visas between July and December  2012, some 900 were successful at acquiring it.

“ Australia is the best destination for students who consider studies as their first priority,” said Kumar Karki, managing director of Landmark Education Consultancy. “Genuine students do not face problems getting visas.”

In the last few decades, education in Australia has flourished with many respectable institutions adopting cutting edge curricula. International students will find a number of universities that offer courses at every level in every imaginable field—whether it be medical, technical, managerial or related to the arts—to choose from.

There are 42 universities in Australia , including two that are private, and students can apply to the hundreds of colleges affiliated to them. Students going to Australia have the luxury of enrolling in flexible courses at the choice of their institution.

Universities under Group 8 are renowned for their academic excellence. They include the Australia n National University, Melbourne University, Sydney University, University of Queensland, University of New South Wales, Monash University, University of Western Australia and Adelaide University. Offering the best in education in Australia , these are competitive spheres of learning with rigorous admissions procedures.

As the education system in Australia is designed to promote creative and independent thinking, it equips students with unique skills and practical learning that prove to be assets later on in life. Teamwork is emphasised within the classroom and students learn to communicate effectively within the context of a multicultural demographic.

“Education in Australia teaches you to rely on your own initiatives and come up with original, practical solutions to real-world problems,” said Prakash Pandey, vice-chairman of Education Consultancies Association of Nepal.

Education institutions in Australia are among the best in the world, offering modern and innovative facilities that ensure your time as a student is spent in a manner most positive and valuable. These institutions also have a sound history of preparing you for a successful career in your chosen field.

On another positive note, student support forms a large part of Australia ’s education system. Institutions take their responsibility towards the welfare of students very seriously. They also provide special services to help international students adjust to life and study in Australia , supporting them in achieving their goals.  

Although the fee structure varies upon specific courses and universities, Australia n education can be acquired at a relatively reasonable price. Students have to spend around Rs 800,000 to Rs 1.3 million per semester as tuition fee and the Australia n government has prescribed a living expense of AUS $18,600 per year. However, most international students, including Nepalis, manage with less than half the amount.

The facility of part-time jobs, including that for a dependent partner, is another factor that lures international students to Australia .  “However, I would discourage students from doing extra work during their study period as they have prospects of acquiring much better jobs after graduating if they complete their degree with good results,” said Rajendra Rijal, managing director of Kathmandu Infosis Education Consultancy.

He added that students who’ve completed their degree can apply for a post-study work visa in order to gain practical work experience in their field. Students who complete their bachelor’s or master’s get two years of work permit while PhD graduates are granted four year permits.

The post-study experience is especially beneficial for those seeking permanent residency in Australia . Education consultants advise students to get training on housekeeping, cookery or other hospitality programmes so they can acquire part-time jobs easily.

Besides degrees designed to suit practically any field of interest, Australia ’s distinctive cultural scene is another big draw for international students. The country is filled with natural wonders and incredible sights and has been deemed as one of the best places to live in the world by many a global survey. A youthful and vibrant nation, Australia doesn’t merely offer quality education, but a cultural experience that isn’t easily forgotten.

Published on: 3 April 2013 |The Kathmandu Post