University & Pathways
Australia is one of the world’s most popular study destinations — and for good reason. With 9 universities ranked in the QS Top 100, Australian qualifications are globally recognised, industry-relevant, and highly valued by employers. Over three million international students have already studied in Australia and gone on to build successful careers around the world — and your journey could be next.
Australia follows a 12-year school system: primary school from Year 1 to 6, and secondary school from Year 7 to 12. At the end of Year 12, students sit a public exam and receive a recognised high school certificate used for university entry.
There are 43 accredited universities in Australia — 37 public and 6 private — offering a wide range of programs in areas such as health, business, IT, and engineering.
For DSE, A Level (IAL) or IB graduates, options include direct university entry, foundation programs (leading to Year 1), or diploma programs (equivalent to Year 1, leading to Year 2).
This flexible system makes Australian education both accessible and supportive for international students with diverse academic backgrounds and goals.
Australian Education System
Certificate/Diploma
Certificate and Diploma programs in Australia focus on hands-on, career-ready training. Offered by government-funded TAFE institutes and private colleges, these courses are strictly regulated for quality and standards. Study areas are diverse — including accounting, IT, hospitality, fashion design, beauty, and more. Most courses begin in February, with additional intakes in July for popular fields like business and hospitality. Graduates may also receive credit exemptions toward a bachelor’s degree if they wish to continue their studies.
English Language Course
Many institutions across Australia offer English programs to help international students meet the language requirements for further study. These courses are run by universities, vocational colleges, and dedicated language schools. With flexible intake dates throughout the year, students can begin when it suits them best.
Most Australian bachelor’s degrees are 3 years in duration, though some specialisations (such as health or engineering) may take 4 or more.
DSE: 13+ (best 5 subjects)*
IB: 26+*
IAL: 4+ (best 3 subjects)*
English: IELTS 6 (no band under 6) or equivalent (some degrees require 7 or above i.e. health)*
*This is a general guide. Requirements vary by course and university. Book a consultation to learn more.
F.6
Bachelor
Year 1
Post-
graduate
Direct Entry
For students who’ve completed Form 5 or above, foundation programs prepare you for university entry through coursework and attendance — no public exam required. As long as they pass the course, they can progress directly into Year 1. Programs typically run for 6 to 18 months, with multiple intakes (Jan/Apr/Jul/ Sept). Students will choose 3-4 subjects based on their intended university major.
F.5: Pass overall
DSE: 5+ (best 5 subjects)*
IB: 15+*
GSE: Pass or 4 in 3 subjects*
English: IELTS 5.5 (no band under 5) or equivalent (some degrees require 7 or above i.e. health)*
*This is a general guide. Requirements vary by course and university. Book a consultation to learn more.
F.5/F.6
Foundation
(Standard/
Accelerate)
Bachelor
Year 1
Foundation
Equivalent to Year 1 of a degree, diploma courses (8–16 months)are designed for Form 6 students who need additional academic and English support. Upon passing (usually), students progress Year 2. Popular study areas include business, IT, education, creative industries, humanities, and engineering.
DSE: 8+ (best 5 subjects)*
IB: 22+*
IAL: 2+ (best 2 subjects)*
English: IELTS 5.5 (no band under 5) or equivalent (some degrees require 7 or above i.e. health)*
*This is a general guide. Requirements vary by course and university. Book a consultation to learn more.
F.6
Diploma
Bachelor
Year 2
Diploma
Entry Pathways
Entry Pathways
University of Southern Queensland
University of the Sunshine Coast
Central Queensland University
James Cook University
Federation University of Australia
The Hotel School Australia
TAFE Queensland (VET sector)
Australian Universities
01
Understand
Your Interests
Book a consultation with us. We’ll explore your goals, background, interests, career plans, and recommend the best study path - whether it's university, TAFE, or college.
02
Apply to Your
Desired Universities
We guide you through the entire application process step by step, from document preparation to submission for one or multiple institutions.
03
Offer(s)
Follow-Up
We act as a communication bridge with institutions, helping track and follow up your application until your best offer is secured.
04
Offer Acceptance & COE Issued
Once you receive your offer, we assist with accepting your place and securing a Confirmation of Enrolment (COE) for student visa purposes.
05
Apply for
Student Visa
Our team prepares and lodges your student visa application, ensuring everything is complete, accurate, and submitted on time.
06
Arrival & Accommodation
We provide practical advice on accommodation options, airport pickup, and what to expect settling into life in Australia.
07
Further Stay /
Career Pathways
We advise on options to stay in Australia after graduation — including post-study work visas, career planning, further studies or migration planning.
08
Here for You
— Always
Our offices in Hong Kong and Brisbane are here to support you before, during, and after your journey — whenever you need us.
Application Process
Tuition & Living Costs in Australia
Planning your education in Australia means understanding the financial side, too. Here’s a practical breakdown of the estimated costs for international students in 2025 — including tuition, accommodation, and other everyday expenses.
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Foundation Program
AUD $40,000–$50,000 per year
Ideal for students needing academic or English support before entering a degree. -
Bachelor Degree
AUD $40,000–$92,000 per year
Fees vary by course — Programs like medicine and dentistry are on the higher end. -
Master Degrees
AUD $40,000–$92,000 per year
Fees vary by field. Health and science programs are typically more expensive.
Most fees include access to university facilities and academic resources.
-
-
On-Campus Student Housing
AUD $22,000–$25,000
Usually includes furniture, internet, and basic utilities. Meal plans may be available. -
Student Apartments
AUD $18,000–$21,000
Strategically located central locations or major education hubs, typically fully furnished shared apartments with shared kitchen and private bathrooms. Most offers lots of student activities with free breakfast, cheap gym. Providing a vibrant living and social environment for students. All bills are included. -
Private Rentals
AUD $15,600–$20,000
Private rentals could be furnished or unfurnished. The more convenient the location is, the better condition of the house is, rent will increase and vice versa.
Tip: First-year students are often encouraged to stay in campus housing or student apartments while settling in.
-
-
Personal Expenses & Entertainment: AUD $5,000–$8,000 per year
-
Public Transport: AUD $100*–$1,500 per year
*In Queensland: $0.50 per trip on most services, excluding airport link. -
Books & Study Materials: AUD $500*–$1,000 per year
*Secondhand and ebook options available
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-
Student Visa (Subclass 500): AUD $2,000
-
Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC): AUD $600–$1,000 (per year)
-
Every student is different — and so is every budget. Scholarships and financial support may be available depending on your chosen institution.
Book a consultation with City Smart, and we’ll help you plan a path that fits your academic goals and your finances.
S
Start with Care
We begin with the whole family. We listen deeply — to both students and parents — making sure everyone is aligned before such a big step. Studying abroad is a shared journey, and we’re here to help you start strong and stay united.
P
Plan Honestly
We guide with knowledge and integrity. With deep ties to both the Hong Kong and Mainland Chinese systems, we know how to match students with the right course — not the fanciest one, but the one they can thrive in and complete successfully.
A
Always There
We’re here whenever students (or their parents) need us — for visa advice, driving instructors, a pep talk, or even tourist tips. Because sometimes, all you need is someone who truly cares and listens without judgement.
R
Real Connections
We’re proud to be the preferred partner of HK DSSSC and work with 30+ Aussie institutions. But we go beyond enrolments — advocating for scholarships, career opportunities, and connecting students with mentors through our growing alumni network.
K
Keep Growing
We help students think long term — from study choices to PR pathways, career planning, and beyond. Our mission is to see students graduate with the clarity and confidence to take on the world — not just start a course, but finish strong.
Why City Smart?
We bring the SPARK.
Because your journey deserves more than just paperwork — it deserves heart, clarity, and lifelong support.
Preferred Education Agent in Australia
City Smart is the preferred education agent of Hong Kong Direct Subsidy Scheme Schools Council in Australia.
We help students from the 60+ schools under the HKDSSSC umbrella to study in Australia to achieve their academic goals.
