Australia has a national regulator and quality agency for higher education – the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA). It was established by the Australian Government to monitor quality, and regulate university and non-university higher education providers to a set of standards developed by the independent Higher Education Standards Panel.
In addition, student rights are protected by law under the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS):
- The well-being of all international students.
- The quality of students’ education experience.
- The provision of up-to-date and accurate information.
Australia has several top-tier universities that consistently rank well in global rankings. To name a few are – name, QS World University (QS) rank, Times Higher Education (THE) rank, ShanghaiRanking (SR) rank:
- Australian National University (ANU) – QS rank 27, THE rank 54, SR rank 76
- University of Melbourne – QS rank 37, THE rank 33, SR rank, 33
- University of Sydney – QS rank 38, THE rank 88, SR rank 69
- University of New South Wales – QS rank 38, THE rank 88,SR rank 65
- University of Queensland – QS rank 47, THE rank 54, SR rank 51
QS World University which includes academic reputation and employer reputation in its ranking methodology, rank Australian universities more favourably.
Tip for international students: Due to the work shortages in Australia, international students are allowed to work more than 20 hours per week in any sector of the country. Previously, a student visa generally allows you to work up to 20 hours per week (part time) during university term and up to 40 hours (full time) during university breaks. At the time of writing, the minimum wage in Australia is 21.38 AUD (~14.91 USD).
