Australian Education System
The Australian education system is broadly divided into:
- University
is the highest level of study in Australia. There are 41
universities in total - 38 public (government funded) and three
private. You can study at the undergraduate level (Bachelor degree)
or postgraduate level (Graduate Certificate, Diploma, Masters,
PhD).
- Vocational
institutions are closely linked with industry, making courses very
practical and skill-based. Vocational courses are provided at both
the government-funded Technical and Further Education (TAFE)
institutes and at private institutions. Many courses provide
advanced standing into university degrees.
- School
is compulsory for children aged between 6 and 15, with
matriculation exams for university generally at 18 years old.
Australian schools are public (government) and private (religious
or independent).
- English language
courses are undertaken for study, travel, immigration or business
purposes. There are around 100 private English language centres in
Australia. Some universities and TAFE institutes also offer English
language courses.
