PR Courses in Australia
Australia's world-class education system and lively multicultural atmosphere have made it a popular choice for international students to study, work, and eventually migrate to the country with a PR. Of the trending fields that offer excellent career prospects, completing a course in a high-demand occupation is the most reliable way to establish a Permanent Residency (PR) pathway.
Popular PR courses in Australia that align with national skills and lead to PR pathways include fields such as Engineering, Information Technology, Healthcare, and Nursing, due to the high demand for skilled workers. Other excellent options include courses in Accounting, Education, Social Work, and various skilled trades, such as Building and Construction.
Listed in the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), such PR pathway courses lead to in-demand jobs that are featured on the Australian government’s skilled occupation lists. Let us delve into what these occupations and PR courses in Australia have to offer to international aspirants.
Why Study PR Courses in Australia?
Australia offers several PR pathway courses or CRICOS-registered academic programmes intended to improve the chances of international students being granted permanent residency upon graduation. These PR courses in Australia cover the areas where there is a skills deficit in the nation and give students a clear route to gain relevant credentials and secure permanent residency.
Of the numerous benefits of studying in Australia, listed below are the main advantages of pursuing a pathways course that aligns with PR:
World-Class Education
- The country boasts highly regarded universities that provide top-notch education.
- The Australian education system uses the latest teaching methodologies and offers a large selection of specialisations and themes to choose from.
- International recognition of degrees from Australian universities improves chances of professional success globally.
Pathway to PR
- Gaining a positive skills assessment and completing a Professional Year Program (PYP), for Accounting, IT, or Engineering, can significantly boost your eligibility and points score for PR.
- Australia permits fresh international graduates to work for at least 2 years for most degrees on a Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485).
- The appropriate credentials, combined with relevant job experience, can help you get enough points for PR.
Supportive Government Policies
- The Australian government provides international students with scholarships of approximately AU $200 million per year.
- To pay for living expenses in Australia while studying, international students can work in part-time jobs for up to 48 hours per fortnight.
- The government intends to reform and streamline the migration programme to focus on genuine skilled needs via the PR courses in Australia.
Diverse and Welcoming Environment
- Australia hosts a thriving multicultural community with students from more than 200 nations.
- Universities offer excellent support services to aid in the adjustment and success of international students.
- Students enjoy warm weather, engage in a variety of activities, and explore the great outdoors in Australia.
List of PR Courses in Australia
Taking pathway PR courses in Australia is a wise decision for anyone wishing to relocate to the country because it gives students a respected degree while also helping them accrue points for their PR applications.
Given below is the complete list of PR courses in Australia that feature on Australia's Skilled Occupation Lists (like the MLTSSL/STSOL or the new Core Skills Occupation List), and therefore, offer high potential for a skilled migration visa after graduation.
| PR Pathway Courses | Annual Tuition Fees (in AUD) | Career Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Information Technology (IT) | AU $30,000 - $55,000 | Analyst Programmer, Software Engineer, Web Developer, Data Scientist |
| Engineering (Civil, Mechanical, Electrical) | AU $35,000 - $55,000 | Civil Engineer, Mechanical Engineer, Electrical Engineer, Mining Engineer |
| Nursing | AU $30,000 - $45,000 | Registered Nurse, Nurse Practitioner, Aged Care Nurse |
| Accountancy | AU $30,000 - $50,000 | Accountant, Finance Manager, External Auditor |
| Building & Construction (Degree Level) | AU $30,000 - $45,000 | Construction Project Manager, Building Inspector, Quantity Surveyor |
| Education & Teaching | AU $25,000 - $40,000 | Primary/Secondary Teacher, Early Childhood Teacher, University Lecturer |
| Hospitality (Higher Education/Degree) | AU $25,000 - $40,000 | Hotel Manager, Event Coordinator, Chef (via specific trade/VET courses) |
| Trade Qualifications (VET/TAFE) | AU $8,000 - $20,000 | Automotive Electrician, Carpentry, Plumbing, Diesel Mechanic |
| Social Work | AU $28,000 - $40,000 | Social Worker, Welfare Officer, Community Worker |
5 Best PR Courses in Australia
The 5 best PR courses in Australia are listed below, along with the list of universities offering them, their annual tuition fees, and job prospects.
Engineering
Australia has a great demand for engineering graduates, especially in the fields of civil, mechanical, and electrical engineering.
| Universities | Cost of Study (in AUD) | Job Roles | Average Salary (in AUD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Melbourne | AU $45,000 - $55,000 | Civil Engineer, Mechanical Engineer | AU $80,000 - $105,000 |
| Australian National University | AU $40,000 - $48,000 | Electrical Engineer, Software Engineer | AU $75,000 - $95,000 |
| University of Sydney | AU $45,000 - $52,000 | Mining Engineer, Environmental Engineer | AU $85,000 - $110,000 |
Nursing
Nursing remains one of the most in-demand occupations with a robust job market and competitive pay, making it to the list of the best PR courses in Australia.
| Universities | Cost of Study (in AUD) | Job Roles | Average Salary (in AUD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Sydney | AU $38,000 - $50,000 | Registered Nurse, Nurse Practitioner | AU $70,000 - $90,000 |
| Monash University | AU $40,000 - $45,000 | Midwife, Mental Health Nurse | AU $65,000 - $80,000 |
| University of Queensland | AU $42,000 - $50,000 | Paediatric Nurse, Community Nurse | AU $60,000 - $80,000 |
Information Technology (IT)
The tech sector's growth means IT courses are highly valued for PR, covering a wide variety of specialisations in Australia.
| Universities | Cost of Study (in AUD) | Job Roles | Average Salary (in AUD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Melbourne | AU $42,000 - $58,000 | Software Developer, IT Consultant | AU $80,000 - $105,000 |
| University of Sydney | AU $45,000 - $50,000 | Systems Analyst, Network Administrator | AU $75,000 - $90,000 |
| Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT University) | AU $38,000 - $45,000 | Data Scientist, Cybersecurity Analyst | AU $80,000 - $95,000 |
Accounting
Next in the list of PR courses in Australia is Accounting, which equips students with the necessary abilities for a variety of in-demand financial positions.
| Universities | Cost of Study (in AUD) | Job Roles | Average Salary (in AUD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Melbourne | AU $40,000 - $52,000 | Accountant, Financial Analyst | AU $55,000 - $75,000 |
| Monash University | AU $38,000 - $48,000 | Auditor, Tax Consultant | AU $60,000 - $80,000 |
| University of Queensland | AU $35,000 - $45,000 | Management Accountant | AU $55,000 - $75,000 |
Trade Qualifications
Trade programmes (VET/TAFE) are highly prized for the country’s infrastructure and provide a quicker, points-attractive pathway to PR, thereby making it to the list of top 5 PR courses in Australia.
| Institutions (VET/TAFE) | Cost of Study (in AUD) | Job Roles | Average Salary (in AUD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| TAFE Queensland | AU $7,000 - $14,000 | Electrician, Plumber | AU $70,000 - $95,000+ |
| Victoria University | AU $8,000 - $12,000 | Carpenter, HVAC Technician | AU $65,000 - $85,000 |
| Sydney TAFE | AU $6,000 - $10,000 | Diesel Mechanic, General Mechanic | AU $50,000 - $75,000 |
Qualified tradespeople earn competitive wages, frequently exceeding those of entry-level degree graduates, especially once licensed and experienced. However, trade courses may require hands-on work, while other fields require strong academic backgrounds. Many trades require you to complete the Job Ready Program (JRP) to be eligible for PR.
Eligibility to Study PR Courses in Australia
The PR courses in Australia have the same eligibility as any other course, which varies based on the level of studies, such as:
- For Diploma & Certificates: Candidates must be at least 18 years old and meet the course-specific academic requirements.
- For a Bachelor’s Degree: Candidates must be at least 18 years old and hold a 12th-grade passing certificate with a minimum GPA, based on courses.
- For a Master’s Degree: Candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree related to the chosen field of study.
- English Proficiency for all Courses: International applicants applying to any course level must provide a score of either of these standardised English language tests: IELTS Academic, TOEFL iBT, or PTE Academic.
- Application Documents: Academic CV, Statement of Purpose (SOP), and Letter of Recommendation (LOR)
For the exact eligibility, international students must refer to the official page of the intended programme of study on the chosen university website.
How to Apply for PR Courses in Australia?
Refer to the step-by-step application process for PR courses in Australia as follows:
Step 1: Select the Correct University and Course
- Research and select a course that fits both your career aspirations and Australia's skills deficit areas (listed on the Skilled Occupation Lists).
- Verify if the course and institution meet the requirements for a CRICOS registration (Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students).
- Select a reputable university/VET provider that offers the desired course.
Step 2: Verify Eligibility and Secure Enrolment
- Make sure you fulfil the academic, English language competency, and any other prerequisites for the chosen PR courses in Australia.
- Submit your application to the university/VET provider directly or through an approved agent, remit the application fee, and supply the necessary paperwork (academic transcripts, English test results, etc.).
- Once accepted, you will receive a Letter of Offer. Accept the offer and pay the initial tuition fee deposit and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) premium.
- You will then receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), which is mandatory for the visa application.
Step 3: Meet the Genuine Student (GS) Requirement
- The Genuine Student (GS) requirement has replaced the former GTE criteria. This is assessed through questions in the online visa application form.
- You must provide short, direct responses (150 words maximum per question) demonstrating that your primary purpose for coming to Australia is to obtain a quality education. It is vital to note that even though you are applying to one of the PR courses in Australia, you must not sound like a potential immigrant.
- Your responses must link your past education/employment and future career goals to the chosen course and show your genuine understanding of studying and living in the country.
Step 4: Apply for a Student Visa (Subclass 500)
- Lodge your visa application online through the ImmiAccount portal on the Department of Home Affairs website.
- Submit the visa application with the required supporting paperwork, including the CoE, financial documentation, and OSHC.
- Pay the visa application charge (VAC).
- Await a decision, which may include a request for biometrics or a medical examination.
Step 5: Get Ready to Arrive
- Once the visa is granted, make arrangements for lodging and flight bookings.
- Participate in any pre-departure briefings that the institution arranges.
- Notify your education provider of your residential address within 7 days of arriving in Australia.
Student Visa Document Checklist for PR Courses in Australia
The following documents are required for the Student Visa (Subclass 500) application for PR courses in Australia:
| Category | Required Documents |
|---|---|
| Identity | A valid passport (must be valid for the duration of the course) and passport-sized photos |
| Acceptance | Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for all intended courses |
| Academic | Academic transcripts and certificates (12th grade, bachelor’s, and more) |
| English | English proficiency test scores (IELTS Academic, TOEFL iBT, or PTE Academic) |
| Profile | Resume/CV and Letters of Recommendation (optional but highly recommended) |
| Visa Requirement | Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) certificate covering the entire duration of your stay Genuine Student (GS) statement (answered in the application form, supported by evidence) |
| Financial Proof | Evidence of sufficient funds to cover tuition fees, living costs (currently set by the government at AU $29,710 annually), and travel costs (includes bank statements, fixed deposits, or an approved Education Loan sanction letter) |
| Health & Character | Health Examination Certificate and Police Clearance Certificate (if required) |
| Other Forms | Completed online application form (via ImmiAccount) Form 956/956A (if using a migration agent) |
Post Study Visa After PR Courses in Australia
After completing one of the PR courses in Australia, international graduates on the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) get a crucial, non-extendable window to secure a skilled job and gain work experience in the country. Foreign graduates have more chances to get a permanent residence because of recent changes to the Subclass 485, which permits graduates to stay for 2-3 years.
The stay-back duration on the post-study visa is now based on the level of qualification:
| Level of Qualification | Stay-Back Duration |
|---|---|
| Bachelor's/Master's by Coursework | Up to 2 years |
| Master's by Research/PhD | Up to 3 years |
| Regional Graduates | Eligible for an additional 1-2 years on a Second 485 visa |
Key Considerations for PR Courses in Australia
To avail of the benefits of your post-study work visa after completing your PR courses in Australia, you must ensure the following:
- Course Length: Ensure that the course you enrol in is at least two years to be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485).
- CRICOS Registration: The course must also have a CRICOS registration (Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students).
- ANZSCO Occupation: The occupation you plan to pursue must be listed on the Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO) list.
If you are hoping to get a permanent residence, choosing one of the pathway PR courses in Australia and securing a job in a skilled occupation is the most effective and direct route, providing the best foundation for applying for a points-based or employer-sponsored visa. Early and careful planning is essential due to the reduced age limit (now under 35) and shorter visa durations.
To conclude, overseas students seeking permanent residency choose Australia for its strong academic system and welcoming immigration regulations. To solve skills shortfall, the PR courses in Australia are offered in the fields of engineering, nursing, computer technology, accounting, and trade qualifications.
Ready to build an international career in Australia? Register at AECC for expert guidance on all matters, starting from your course selection to the visa procedure.