Australia vs. UK: Choosing the Right Study Destination for Sri Lankan Students

When deciding whether to study in the UK or Australia from Sri Lanka, make sure to take into account the cost of studying and living in both countries, their respective education systems, and job prospects in the future. Additionally, a student’s lifestyle preferences also determine which study-abroad destination appeals to them the most.

To help you make an informed choice, here are some key factors to keep in mind when choosing between the UK and Australia for higher studies:

UK Vs Australia Education System 

The systems of education in both countries differ in their approach to international students. 

Education System in the UK

The UK education system is very well-structured and strongly focuses on academic excellence in disciplines like law, medicine, and engineering. 

Education System in Australia

Home to several universities and vocational learning institutes, the Australian education system focuses on imparting skills to students that are relevant to the industry and can be applied practically. 

University Rankings & Reputation 

This is a key consideration when choosing the correct country for international students. The global rankings of its universities play an essential role in determining the academic excellence and education standards of the country.

The table below highlights the top universities in Australia and the UK for international students with their respective QS rankings:

_{Related Source: https://www.topuniversities.com/world-university-rankings?countries=au}  

_{Related Source: https://www.topuniversities.com/world-university-rankings?countries=gb}  

Popular Courses in the UK vs Australia

Some of the most popular study programs in UK universities include Law, Business, Engineering, and Medicine. Meanwhile, Australia offers excellent education opportunities in Architecture, IT, and Accounting, among others.

Listed below are some of the widely preferred study programs among international students in the UK and Australia:

UK:

• Various specialisations in Engineering - Mechanical, Civil, and Electrical

• Business and Management programs

• Law degrees

• Computer Science and IT courses

• Medicine and Healthcare

Australia:

• Architecture

• Accounting and Finance

• Environmental Science

• Hospitality and Tourism

• Mining 

Cost Comparison – Tuition & Cost of Living

The cost of studying and living in a country is of utmost importance when choosing one for higher education. Here’s a brief overview of the costs in Australia and the UK.

Living Expenses and Cost of Studying in the UK

• Bachelor’s - GBP 11,400 - GBP 38,000

• Master’s - GBP 9,000 - GBP 30,000

Cost of Living in the UK - GBP 1,300 - GBP 1,400 per month in London and GBP 900 - GBP 1,300 elsewhere in the UK

Living Expenses and Cost of Studying in Australia

• Bachelor’s - AUD 20,000 - AUD 45,000

• Master’s - AUD 22,000 - AUD 50,000

Cost of Living in Australia - AUD 29,710

_{Related Sources: https://study-uk.britishcouncil.org/moving-uk/cost-studying 
https://www.topuniversities.com/student-info/student-finance/how-much-does-it-cost-study-australia
https://www.westernsydney.edu.au/international/arriving/cost-of-living}

Scholarships for Sri Lankan Students in the UK Vs Australia 

The availability of scholarships makes education abroad more affordable and easily accessible to international students. Listed below are the top scholarships offered by the UK and Australia for international students:

 Student Visa Requirements in the UK

To apply for a student visa for the UK, you would need a complete set of documents, such as the following:

• Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from a recognised UK university

• A valid passport or travel document

• Proof of finances

• Test results of Tuberculosis

• Valid ATAS certificate

Student Visa Requirements in Australia

Students must apply for a Subclass 500 Student Visa, for which the following conditions must be met:

• Receive a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)

• Receive a letter of offer from a recognised educational institution 

• Demonstrate proof of English proficiency, such as IELTS

• Proof of sufficient funds

• Good health certificate 

• Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)

• Character certificate 

• Travel document or a valid passport 

Post-Study Work Opportunities in the UK vs Australia

Both the UK and Australia allow international students to continue staying in the country for work reasons after their course completion. Eligible graduates can apply for a Post-Study Work Permit (PSWP) in these countries to seek suitable work opportunities or start a job.

PSWP in the UK for Sri Lankan Students

• The Graduate Route Visa is valid for up to 2 years after course completion; 3 years in the case of doctoral students.

• A valid UK student visa is a mandate to apply for a PSWP for international students.

• Completion of a study program of at least 9 months’ duration is also a must.

• The course must have been completed at an institution sponsoring visas under the UK immigration rules.

• No employer sponsorship is required.

• Eligible graduates are permitted to work at any level in any sector.

PSWP in Australia for Sri Lankan Students

• The Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) must be applied for within 6 months of completing studies in Australia.

• The course must be registered with CRICOS.

• Applicants must be less than 50 years of age.

• Students must meet the Australian Study Requirement (ASR), which requires studying in Australia for at least two academic years in a registered study program in English

The best country between the UK and Australia for international students is a personal choice, depending on various factors like academic background, career goals, and individual preferences. The UK is renowned for shorter course durations and top-ranked universities. Australia offers potential career pathways after course completion. Both countries have particular strengths, brilliant academic opportunities, and post-study work options for eligible graduates.

Which one to choose for your higher education is a choice you need to make based on the various assessment criteria discussed in this blog above.

IDP Education consultants are one of the best study-abroad experts offering personalised assistance and guidance to choose the best country for higher education. We help shortlist the best study options in the UK and Australia as per your academic needs and career aspirations. Our experts would also identify the top universities and study programs in both these countries, and help you make an informed choice based on your needs and budget preferences.

1. How do I choose the best course for studying abroad?

To choose the best course abroad, consider your strengths and preferences, assess the rankings of the universities, the course curriculum, duration, and cost, and potential career prospects.

2. Is healthcare free for students in the UK or Australia?

Healthcare is generally free of cost in the UK for international students paying the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) as part of the visa application process. In Australia, though, international students need to pay for the OSHC.

3. Can students study and work while studying in the UK or Australia?

In both countries, international students are permitted to work only part-time while studying.

4. What are the top part-time jobs for Sri Lankan students?

Some of the best part-time work opportunities for international students in the UK and Australia are:

• Graphic Designer

• Event Planner

• Customer Service Representative

5. Which country has a larger Sri Lankan student community?

Australia has a relatively larger Sri Lankan student community than the UK.