Guide for Parents of International High School Students in Australia

What if your child struggles in school, falls behind, or misses their chance at university?

Being a parent of an international high school student in Australia can come with many uncertainties and worries. 

It can feel like their first day of school all over again, but this time, in a new system with high stakes.

Without proper guidance, your child might miss out on a university or even risk losing their student visa. 

But with the right information, you can guide your child in choosing the best study plan for their goals and securing a strong future—whether that’s university admission, a successful career, or even permanent residency.

This guide covers everything you need to know to support your child as they enter international high school in Australia.

Article Guide:

• Understanding the Australian High School System

• Helping Your Child Choose the Right Subjects for University

• Financial Planning: Tuition Fees, Scholarships, and Financial Aid

• Supporting Your Child’s Mental Health and Well-Being

• Navigating Student Visa Conditions and PR Opportunities

Understanding the Australian High School System and Grading Scale

Australia’s high school system follows a structured curriculum to prepare students for higher education and future careers. Understanding how it works is essential for guiding your child toward academic success.

High School Structure (Years 7-12)

In Australia, high school runs from Year 7 to Year 12, but the final two years (Year 11 and 12) are the most important for university entry.

• Years 7-10: Students take core subjects like English, Math, Science, and Humanities, along with electives they enjoy.

• Years 11-12: This is where things get serious. Students choose subjects that count towards their ATAR (Australian Tertiary Admission Rank), which decides their university options.

How Grading and ATAR Work

Instead of percentages, Australian schools use letter grades:

• A (Excellent) – Your child is doing great.

• B (Good) – Solid performance.

• C (Satisfactory) – Meeting the basic requirements.

• D (Limited) – Struggling a bit.

• E (Very Low Achievement) – Needs a lot of improvement.

Then there’s ATAR—a ranking between 0 and 99.95 that compares students across the country. A higher ATAR means more university options, so Year 12 results matter significantly.

Different Systems in Each State (And What They Mean for Your Child)

One tricky part of Australian high schools is that each state has its own final exam and university entry system. 

The grading scales, ATAR calculation methods, and subject requirements can vary depending on where your child is studying. 

But don’t worry—it’s not as complicated as it sounds!

Think of it like this: No matter which state your child is studying in, they’re all working toward the same goal: getting a good ATAR (Australian Tertiary Admission Rank) so they can enter university. The main difference is the name of the certificate they receive when they finish Year 12.

Here’s a simple breakdown of what each state calls its high school certificate:

• New South Wales (NSW) – HSC (Higher School Certificate)

• Victoria (VIC) – VCE (Victorian Certificate of Education)

• Queensland (QLD) – QCE (Queensland Certificate of Education)

• South Australia & Northern Territory (SA & NT) – SACE (South Australian Certificate of Education)

• Western Australia (WA) – WACE (Western Australian Certificate of Education)

• Tasmania (TAS) – TCE (Tasmanian Certificate of Education)

Do These Different Names Matter?

Not really! Even though they have different names, they all serve the same purpose.

No matter which certificate your child earns, it will be converted into an ATAR.

This means universities will look at their ATAR score—not the specific certificate—when deciding on admissions.

The only real difference is how each state structures their final exams and assessments. Some states rely more on written exams, while others put more weight on projects and coursework. Here are some examples:

• New South Wales (HSC) and Victoria (VCE) – Heavy emphasis on final-year written exams, combined with school-based assessments.

• Queensland (QCE) – Uses the ATAR system but includes external exams and internal assessments with more flexibility in subject choices.

• South Australia & Northern Territory (SACE), Western Australia (WACE), and Tasmania (TCE) – A mix of written exams and school-based coursework, with some subjects allowing more continuous assessment rather than relying solely on final exams.

If you’re unsure how your child’s study plan will impact their ATAR and university options, IDP can help.

Our expert education counsellors can guide you through the different state systems, explain how assessments are structured and graded, and help your child choose subjects that align with their strengths and university goals.

Book a free consultation with us today and get personalized advice to help your child achieve their best possible ATAR and secure a place in their ideal university.

Choosing the right high school subjects isn’t just about what your child enjoys.

It can directly impact their chances of getting into university and even shape their future career. 

But with so many options, how do you help them choose wisely? 

How Subject Choices Affect University Admission

In Years 11 and 12, students choose subjects that will count toward their ATAR (Australian Tertiary Admission Rank). Some subjects are required for certain university courses, while others can boost their ATAR score. 

Making the right choices now can open doors to their dream degree or limit their options if they don’t plan ahead.

Prerequisite Subjects for Competitive Courses

Some university courses require students to take specific subjects in high school. These are called prerequisites. If your child doesn’t take them, they may not be eligible for the course even if they get a high ATAR.

Here are some common prerequisite subjects for popular university degrees:

• Medicine & Health Sciences – Biology, Chemistry, sometimes Physics

• Engineering – Advanced Mathematics (Math Methods or Specialist Math), Physics

• Law – English (some universities require high-level English)

• Business & Commerce – Mathematics (Math Methods recommended)

• Computer Science & IT – Mathematics, sometimes Physics

• Arts & Humanities – No strict prerequisites, but English is essential

Before finalising subject choices, it’s a good idea to check university websites to see what’s required for the courses your child is interested in.

You don’t want your child to miss out on their dream course just because they didn’t take the right subjects in high school.

That’s where IDP can help. Our expert education counsellors can guide you or your child through university entry requirements, ensuring they meet the prerequisites for their desired courses. Book a consultation with IDP today and get clarifications about university admissions. 

Balance Interests, Strengths, and University Requirements

While it’s important to meet university entry requirements, your child should also pick subjects they’re good at and enjoy. 

If they take subjects they hate or struggle with, they might lose motivation, and their grades could suffer. A balance is key.

Encourage them to ask:

• Does this subject align with my future university plans?

• Am I genuinely interested in this subject?

• Will I be able to perform well in it?

By choosing the right mix of subjects, your child can maximize their ATAR, keep university options open, and enjoy their final years of high school.

Financial Planning: Tuition Fees, Scholarships, and Financial Aid

Choosing the right subjects is just one part of preparing for university.

The other part? Figuring out how to afford it.

Raising a teenager is already expensive. You’re budgeting for tuition one minute, then suddenly they need money for a concert ticket, new shoes, and that "must-have" gadget.

But don’t worry; we can provide ways to make tuition more manageable (we just can’t help with the tickets to that Taylor Swift concert).

How Much Does High School Cost for International Students?

The cost of high school depends on where your child studies:

• Public High Schools: Around $9,000–$15,000 per year (cheaper but still adds up).

• Private High Schools: Between $20,000–$40,000 per year (basically the price of a small car).

• Extra Costs: Think uniforms, textbooks, school trips, and that fancy calculator they’ll use once.

One of the biggest mistakes parents make is underestimating the total cost of high school, only to face unexpected fees later. 

Without proper planning, you might struggle to budget for tuition, school supplies, and other essentials, or worse, your child’s education could be disrupted due to financial constraints.

At IDP, we help you avoid these surprises by providing clear, up-to-date information on tuition costs at specific high schools. Whether you're considering a public or private institution, we guide you through the expected expenses and help you explore financial aid options. 

Scholarships for International High School Students

Many schools, universities, and private organisations offer scholarships based on the following:

• Good grades – Many scholarships reward students with high academic achievement, especially in subjects relevant to their chosen university course. 

• Extracurricular activities – Universities and private organisations often offer scholarships for students who excel in sports, music, or leadership roles. 

• Financial need – Some scholarships are designed for families who need extra support to cover tuition fees. These aren’t just for students with top grades. If your family meets the financial criteria, this could be a valuable option.

The key? Start looking early. Many scholarships have deadlines months before the school year starts, so don’t leave it until the last minute (like your kid does with homework).

Scholarships Disappear Fast, so Don’t Miss Them Out

Most families miss out on scholarships simply because they don’t know what’s available or they apply too late. For example, applications for Australia's Northern Territory Scholarships 2025 only last for a month. 

Once the deadline passes, that opportunity is gone.

Make sure you don’t miss out on any scholarship opportunities for your child. You can access them and apply as early as now. Consult with IDP for free to secure your child’s chances of securing a scholarship and reducing tuition costs.

Financial Aid & Budgeting Tips for Parents

If scholarships don’t cover everything, there are still ways to manage expenses:

• Payment plans: Most Australian schools allow international students to pay in instalments rather than one large upfront fee. This makes it easier to spread costs throughout the year. Check with your child’s school to see if they offer:

  • Monthly or quarterly payment options to avoid a heavy financial burden.

  • Direct debit arrangements so payments are automated and hassle-free.

  • Discounts for early or upfront payments—some schools offer a small reduction in fees if you pay in advance.

• Sponsorships & grants: Certain government programs, private organisations, and even embassies provide financial support for international students. Some key options to explore:

  • Destination Australia Scholarship – Offers up to $15,000 per year for international students studying in regional Australia.

  • School-Based Bursaries – Some private and public schools offer fee reductions based on academic performance or financial need.

  • Government & Embassy Sponsorships – Many embassies have education funds for students from specific countries. Contact your local consulate to check available programs.

• Smart budgeting: Beyond tuition, everyday expenses can add up quickly. Planning can make a big difference:

  • Create a school-year budget

  • Cut unnecessary costs

  • Use student discounts

Planning ahead can save you a lot of stress and money. Whether it’s breaking up tuition into smaller payments, hunting for grants, or saying "no, we’re eating at home" more often, small decisions add up.

But financial concerns aren’t the only thing on a parent’s mind.

When your child studies in a new country, their well-being becomes an even bigger worry. 

They are adjusting to a different culture, a new school system, and the pressure to succeed. It’s normal to worry whether they’re holding up well to all these changes. 

So let’s talk about how to help them thrive—not just academically, but mentally and emotionally too.

Mental Health and Well-Being: Support Services for International Students

Adjusting to life as an international student in Australia isn’t easy. 

Even if they’ve been here for months or years, there are moments when it still feels unfamiliar.

As a parent of a teenager, it’s normal to feel like you never really know what’s going on with your child. Then you start to worry. Are they eating properly? Making friends? Keeping up with schoolwork? And what if they feel lonely but don’t want to tell you?

The good news is that there are support systems in place to help them adjust, stay on track, and feel less alone. Here are some of them.

Support Available in School

Most Australian schools offer support services to help students cope with stress and adjustment challenges. Make sure that your child knows about them and teach them to prioritize their mental health so that they don’t feel hesitant or embarrassed about seeking help. 

• School counsellors – If your child feels overwhelmed, talking to a counselor can help. They provide a safe, judgment-free space to talk about stress, school, and personal worries.

• Student advisors – These staff members help students navigate academic challenges, time management, and career planning.

• Peer support programs – Some schools pair new students with older students who have gone through similar experiences. It helps to have someone who understands.

Other Places to Find Help

If your child needs more support outside school, some organizations specialize in helping young people:

• Headspace – A free mental health service for young people in Australia. They offer online, phone, and in-person support.

• Beyond Blue – A 24/7 helpline that provides mental health support for young people feeling anxious, stressed, or overwhelmed.

• Community & cultural groups – Many cities have organizations where international students can connect with others from similar backgrounds. Having a sense of belonging makes a huge difference.

Encouraging your child to reach out for help is one thing. Getting them to actually do it is another. Sometimes, they don’t know where to start, or they worry about what others might think.

That’s where we come in. At IDP, we don’t just help with academics. We understand the challenges international students face, and we can connect your child to the right support systems so they never feel alone. If you’re worried about their well-being, let’s talk. We’ll help you find the best resources to make sure they feel supported, understood, and confident in their new environment.

Navigating Student Visa Rules and PR Opportunities

Whether your child hopes to continue to university or eventually apply for Permanent Residency (PR), understanding their visa conditions early is crucial. It helps them avoid unexpected setbacks and ensures they stay compliant with regulations. Most importantly, it allows them to make informed choices about their education and future in Australia.

Student Visa Conditions: What You and Your Child Need to Know

Australia’s student visa (subclass 500) comes with strict rules that all international high school students must follow. Missing a key requirement—like falling behind in attendance—could put their visa (and future) at risk. Here are the main things to keep in mind:

• Attendance & Academic Performance – Most states require at least 80% attendance for visa compliance. Your child must also make satisfactory academic progress.

• Work Limitations – Unlike university students, international high schoolers typically can’t work while studying, except in specific circumstances.

• Welfare & Guardianship Requirements – If your child is under 18, they must live with a parent, legal guardian, or an approved guardian arranged through their school.

Breaking these conditions could mean losing their visa, so it’s crucial to stay informed.

Pathways to Permanent Residency (PR) After High School

Getting PR in Australia isn’t easy, but it’s possible. Many students don’t realise that the decisions they make in high school, such as their course choices and university pathway, can affect their long-term PR prospects. 

Every decision along the way matters. Selecting strategic courses and university pathways can set off a domino effect, opening more opportunities for your child in the future.

Here are some common routes:

1. University & Skilled Migration

Graduates in high-demand fields can qualify for PR through Australia’s skilled migration program. The process typically follows these steps:

• Choose an in-demand field – Professions like nursing, IT, engineering, and teaching are regularly listed on Australia’s Skilled Occupation List.

• Complete a degree at an Australian university – This is a key requirement for post-study work opportunities.

• Apply for a Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) – This allows students to gain local work experience.

• Earn PR points through work experience – After gaining relevant experience, students can apply for PR through:

  • Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189) – No employer or state sponsorship required.

  • Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190) – Requires nomination from an Australian state or territory.

2. Regional Study Pathway

Studying in a designated regional area can offer extra PR points and extended post-study work rights. The process includes:

• Choose a university in a regional area – Areas outside major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane qualify as “regional” for migration benefits.

• Complete studies and apply for a regional post-study work visa – Graduates in regional areas often receive longer post-study work visas than those in major cities.

• Apply for a Skilled Work Regional Visa (subclass 491) – This provisional visa provides a direct route to PR after three years of living and working in a regional area.

3. Employer Sponsorship

Students can also transition to PR by securing employment with an Australian company. This route typically involves:

• Find a job with an employer willing to sponsor you – Many industries with skill shortages actively seek international graduates.

• Apply for a Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (subclass 482) – This allows graduates to work in Australia while gaining experience.

• Work toward meeting PR requirements – After gaining experience, employers can sponsor employees for PR through:

  • Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) – For workers in eligible occupations with at least three years of experience.

  • Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (subclass 187) – For jobs in regional areas where an employer is willing to provide sponsorship.

Each pathway requires careful planning and an understanding of visa requirements. By starting early, your child can make informed decisions that bring them closer to achieving PR in Australia.

Support Your Child’s Future in Australia

As a parent, you want the best for your child—whether that means helping them adjust to high school, transition to university, or even stay in Australia permanently. But navigating visa rules and PR pathways alone can be overwhelming.

At IDP, we provide expert guidance to help families:

• Understand student visa conditions and avoid risks.

• Plan university pathways that align with long-term PR opportunities.

• Explore study options in PR-friendly fields or regional areas.

Don’t leave your child’s future to guesswork. Book a free consultation with IDP today and get expert advice on visas, PR pathways, and university options tailored to your child’s goals.