Study in Australia After 12th for Nepalese Students 2025

If you're planning your next step after Grade 12, Australia is one of the smartest choices you can make. Known for its world-class education, vibrant student life, and welcoming culture, Australia is home to some of the most trusted and globally recognised universities. Every year, more and more Nepalese students choose to study in Australia—not just for the degree, but for the life experience, global exposure, and career possibilities that come with it.

From affordable study options to generous Australian scholarships, flexible post-study work rights, and student-friendly cities, there are plenty of reasons why students prefer to study in Australia from Nepal. In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about pursuing higher education in Australia after 12th—covering top courses in Australia for international students, eligibility, application process, student visas, and more.

Why Study in Australia after 12th?

For many Nepalese students, Australia offers the perfect blend of academic excellence, safety, and lifestyle. It's not just about getting a degree—it's about building a future in a country that values innovation, diversity, and global talent. Here's why thousands of students choose to study in Australia after 12 every year:

• Globally Ranked Universities: According to the QS World University Rankings 2025, several Australian universities are ranked among the top 100 globally. For instance, the University of Melbourne is ranked 13th, the University of Sydney 18th, and the University of New South Wales 19th. These institutions offer modern facilities, strong industry connections, and extensive research opportunities, making them attractive choices for international students.

• Multicultural Environment: With students from across the globe and a strong Nepalese community, you’ll feel at home while still expanding your worldview.

• Work While You Study: On a valid Australia student visa, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods—helping you gain experience and support your living expenses.

• Post-Study Work Opportunities: Australia offers generous post-study work rights, especially for students completing degrees in high-demand fields—making it easier to build a career after graduation.

• Scholarships and Affordable Options: From the prestigious Australia Awards Scholarship to institutional bursaries, there are several Australia scholarships that make studying more accessible. You can even explore the cheapest university in Australia depending on your budget and course preference.

• Multiple Intakes and Flexibility: With three major intakes in Australia—February, July, and November—you don’t have to wait too long to start your course.

Popular courses in Australia after 12^th

Choosing the right course after 12th can feel overwhelming, but the good news is—Australia has options for every kind of student. Whether you're numbers-driven, creative, or passionate about helping people, there's a program that can help you turn your interests into a global career.Here are some of the most popular choices among Nepalese students who study in Australia after 12:

• Business and Management: If you're someone who’s curious about how companies work—or maybe even dream of starting your own—this is a great place to begin. You’ll learn everything from finance and marketing to leadership and strategy.

• Information Technology and Computer Science: Tech is big in Australia, and so is the demand for skilled professionals. If coding, cybersecurity, or data sound exciting, this field offers strong career opportunities and practical training.

• Engineering: Love solving problems and building things? Engineering covers everything from designing bridges to creating smart energy systems. It's a challenging path but one that opens up high-paying global roles.

• Nursing and Health Sciences: Healthcare is one of the most respected and stable career paths in Australia. Nursing, physiotherapy, and public health courses are hands-on and well-supported, especially for international students.

• Hospitality and Tourism: If you enjoy people-facing roles or dream of managing luxury hotels or travel experiences, this industry is huge in Australia. The programs are practical and often include real-world internships.

• Design, Creative Arts, and Media: For the storytellers, designers, and creators—Australia offers vibrant courses in graphic design, animation, filmmaking, and fashion. A great fit if you want to turn your creativity into a career.

• Agriculture and Environmental Science: If you're interested in sustainability, food production, or environmental protection, this field is growing fast—and so are the career options that come with it.

And if you’re still exploring your options, there are plenty of short term courses in Australia for international students that let you test the waters or build your way into a full degree.

Types of programs you can apply

After completing Grade 12, Nepalese students have more than one way to start their education journey in Australia. Whether you're aiming for a full bachelor's degree or looking to build up gradually, there's a program structure that can match your goals, budget, and academic readiness.

Types of programs you can apply after 12th:

1. Bachelor’s Degrees (3–4 years): This is the most common path if you’re clear about your course and meet the direct entry requirements. These degrees are available in almost every field—business, science, IT, health, and more—and some may include honours or specialisations.

2. Diploma or Advanced Diploma Programs (1–2 years): If you’re looking for a more affordable or skill-based entry point, diploma programs are a great way to start. Many students complete a diploma and then transfer into the second year of a bachelor’s degree.

3. Foundation or Pathway Programs: Not meeting direct university entry requirements? Foundation programs are designed to help you catch up—whether it’s improving your academic skills or English proficiency. These are often run by the university itself or by affiliated colleges.

4. Short-Term or Certificate Courses: If you're still figuring things out or want to build specific skills, short-term courses in Australia for international students can give you a taste of a subject and help you decide what’s next.

Eligibility criteria for Nepalese students

So, what does it really take to get into an Australian university after 12th? The good news is—you don’t need to be a straight-A student or have everything figured out from day one. But yes, there are a few key requirements you’ll need to meet before you can apply.

Here’s what most Australian universities for international students expect:

• Academic Qualifications: You should have completed your 12th grade through NEB or A-Levels. Different courses and universities have different grade cut-offs, so it’s worth checking the specific entry requirements for each program.

• English Language Proficiency: Since English is the language of instruction, you’ll need to show that you can keep up. Most universities accept IELTS or PTE scores. Each course might have its own minimum score, especially for programs like nursing or education.

• Age Requirement: You typically need to be at least 17 years old at the time of course commencement.

• Statement of Purpose (SOP): Statement of Purpose is your personal pitch. It’s your chance to explain why you want to study in Australia, why you chose a specific course, and what your future plans look like.

• Letters of Recommendation (LORs): Some universities may ask for references from your teachers or school counsellors. Letter of Recommendation help showcase your strengths and readiness for university life.

• Financial Proof: To apply for an Australia student visa, you’ll need to show that you (or your sponsor) can cover tuition fees, living expenses, travel, and other costs.

Entrance exams required to Study in Australia after12th

One of the biggest questions students have when planning to study in Australia after 12 is: “Do I need to take any big entrance exams?”

The answer? Not really. Unlike countries that require tests like the SAT, most Australian universities keep things straightforward.

Here’s what you’ll typically need:

• English Language Proficiency: Since classes in Australia are taught in English, universities want to make sure you’re comfortable with the language. That’s why most institutions require students to take the IELTS test.

Your required score may vary depending on the course. For example, a nursing or education program might ask for a higher IELTS band compared to a business or IT course.

• No Academic Entrance Exams for Most Courses: For most undergraduate programs, especially at the diploma or bachelor’s level, there’s no separate academic entrance test. Your high school results, along with your English test scores, are usually enough.

• Exceptions for Foundation or Pathway Programs: If you don’t meet direct entry requirements, some universities may ask you to take a placement or internal assessment as part of their foundation or pathway programs.

So, in short—you won’t need to worry about extra academic entrance exams if you’ve already completed 12th grade and meet the basic eligibility. Just focus on doing well in your English test and preparing your application documents.

Application process for studying in Australia

Applying to study in Australia from Nepal might feel like a lot at first, but once you break it down, it’s a fairly simple and step-by-step process. Here’s how to go about it:

Step 1: Start Early Ideally, begin planning 12–15 months before your preferred intake. That gives you enough time to shortlist courses, gather documents, and prepare for your IELTS test.

Step 2: Choose Your Course and University Australia has a wide range of programs and institutions. Think about what interests you, your career goals, and your budget. Some students also consider factors like city lifestyle or weather.

Step 3: Check Entry Requirements Every course has its own academic and English language criteria. Make sure your 12th grade marks and IELTS score meet the minimum required for the program.

Step 4: Gather Your Documents You’ll typically need:

• Academic transcripts and certificates

• IELTS test results

• Statement of Purpose (SOP)

• Letters of Recommendation (if required)

• A copy of your passport

• Proof of funds (for your visa application later)

Step 5: Apply to Universities You can apply directly to universities or make things easier by working with a trusted study abroad consultant who knows the process inside out and can help you avoid common mistakes.

Step 6: Accept Your Offer Once you receive your offer letter, review it carefully. If everything looks good, accept the offer and pay the initial deposit to secure your spot.

Step 7: Apply for Your Australian Student Visa After accepting your offer, it’s time to apply for your Australia student visa. You’ll need to provide your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), financial documents, and health insurance (OSHC) details.

Step 8: Get Ready to Fly Once your visa is approved, book your tickets, arrange accommodation, and get your pre-departure documents in order. Many universities also offer orientation sessions for international students before the semester begins.

Cost of studying and living in Australia

Before you pack your bags, it’s important to understand what kind of investment you’re making. While Australia offers a high return on education, planning your budget early can help you avoid surprises later.

Tuition Fees Your tuition fee depends on the course, university, and level of study. Here’s a general range for undergraduate programs:

• Business, IT, Arts: AUD 20,000 – 35,000 per year

• Engineering, Health Sciences: AUD 30,000 – 45,000 per year

• Specialised or medical courses: Can go higher depending on the university

If you’re looking for more affordable study options, consider exploring the cheapest university in Australia that still meets your academic and career goals.

Living Expenses On average, international students should budget around AUD 21,000 per year for living costs. This includes rent, food, transport, internet, and basic personal expenses. Your location will make a difference—cities like Sydney and Melbourne are more expensive than Adelaide or Perth.

Health Insurance (OSHC) All international students must have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of their stay. The cost depends on the length of your program but typically starts at around AUD 500–700 per year.

Part-Time Work to Support Expenses On a valid Australian student visa, you’re allowed to work part-time (up to 48 hours per fortnight) while your course is in session. Many students take up jobs in retail, hospitality, or administrative roles to support their day-to-day expenses.

Tip: Applying for Australian scholarships can also significantly reduce your financial burden—more on that in the next section.

Scholarships for Nepalese students One of the best things about choosing to study in Australia after 12 is the wide range of scholarship opportunities available for international students—including those from Nepal.

These scholarships can help reduce your tuition fees, cover living expenses, or even support your academic journey throughout the entire course. They are offered by universities, governments, and various institutions across Australia.

Most scholarships are awarded based on:

• Academic performance in 12th grade

• English language proficiency

• Overall application strength, including your statement of purpose

• Involvement in extracurricular or leadership activities

Some universities also consider financial need or may offer region-specific grants aimed at supporting students who study in Australia from Nepal.

Keep in mind that scholarships are highly competitive and limited in number, so applying early and submitting a strong application is key.

If you're unsure where to begin, a qualified study abroad consultant can help you identify options that align with your academic profile and assist you with the application process.

Tips for students applying after 12th

If you're planning to study in Australia after 12, the earlier you start, the smoother your journey will be. Here are a few practical tips to help you stay ahead and make confident decisions:

Start Early and Stay Organised Give yourself at least a year to plan. This gives you enough time to research courses, prepare for your IELTS test, gather documents, and apply for scholarships.

Focus on Academics and English Your 12th grade marks and IELTS score play a big role in university admissions and scholarship opportunities. A strong academic profile can also give you more course and university options.

Know Your Intakes There are three main intakes in Australia—February, July, and November. February is the biggest, with the most course options. Planning around these timelines is important when it comes to submitting your application and visa on time.

Be Clear About Your Goals When choosing a course, think beyond just the subject. Ask yourself: Will this course help me reach my long-term goals? Does it align with what I enjoy learning or the kind of work I want to do later?

Seek Guidance When Needed If you're unsure about where to start or how to shortlist universities, connecting with a trusted study abroad consultant can make a big difference. From course selection to visa application, the right guidance can save you time, stress, and missed opportunities.

Choosing to study in Australia after 12 is more than just picking a destination—it's about setting the foundation for your future. With its world-class universities, welcoming environment, practical learning approach, and strong career pathways, Australia continues to be a preferred choice for Nepalese students looking to build global careers.

But making the right decisions—from course selection to visa applications—can feel overwhelming. That’s where expert guidance can help.

If you're ready to take the next step, apply with IDP. Our experienced counsellors can guide you through every part of the process—from choosing the right university to preparing your documents and securing your Australia student visa.

Plan smart. Apply early. And start your journey to study in Australia with confidence.

FAQs for Study in Australia After 12th for Nepalese Students

Ques 1. Can I apply to Australian universities while waiting for my 12th results? Ans: Yes, many universities allow conditional applications based on predicted scores or provisional results. However, you'll need to submit your final marks before enrolment is confirmed.

Ques 2. Do I need to have everything figured out before choosing a course? Ans: Not necessarily. Australia’s flexible education system allows you to switch majors or explore elective subjects in your first year. If you’re still deciding, pathway programs are a great starting point.

Ques 3. Are there any specific requirements for Nepalese students when applying for a student visa? Ans: The requirements are the same for all international students, but as applicants you must show strong documentation around finances, academic background, English proficiency, and a genuine reason to study.

Ques 4. Can I stay in Australia after finishing a diploma or certificate course? Ans: It depends on the level and duration of the course. In most cases, longer qualifications at the diploma or degree level are more likely to meet eligibility for post-study work visas.

_{Updated on April 2, 2025}