Best Courses to Study in Australia for Indian Students (2025 Guide)

Why Choosing the Right Best Courses to Study in Australia Can Define Your Career

Choosing the right program to study in Australia for Indian students isn’t just about ambition—it’s a strategic move toward permanent residency (PR), career stability, and international exposure. With over 120,000 Indian students heading to Australia in 2024, it’s clear the country isn’t just a popular destination; it’s a launchpad. Australia’s globally recognized universities, practical learning approach, and PR-friendly visa policies make it a smart choice. But what truly sets students apart is choosing the right course—especially those aligned with courses for PR in Australia.

Why Indian Students Are Flocking to Australia in 2025

Global Degrees, Local Impact

Whether it’s IT, healthcare, or engineering, Australia’s universities offer job-ready degrees that translate directly into employment—both in Australia and worldwide.

A Clear PR Pathway

If your course appears on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL), you’re already halfway through the door to PR. Many students choose their courses based on PR potential—smart move, considering the competitive immigration landscape.

Why I Picked Australia Over the UK

I had offers from the UK and Canada but went with Brisbane. Why? The Master of IT I found was not only affordable but listed on the MLTSSL (Medium to Long-Term Strategic Skills List), meaning it was PR-aligned. That tipped the scales.

How to Choose the Right Course in Australia

• Think Long-Term: Don’t just follow trends—think about the job you want.
  
• Check PR Eligibility: Visit the SOL, match your course to in-demand roles.
  
• Evaluate ROI: Would you pay ₹30 lakhs for a course that barely earns you ₹20 lakhs after graduation? No? Then choose wisely.

Top PR-Friendly Courses in Australia for Indian Students

Nursing and Healthcare

Always in demand. Faster PR processing and strong job prospects.
Example: Bachelor of Nursing at Monash University.

Information Technology (IT)

Data scientists, cybersecurity experts, and software developers are in high demand.
Example: Master of IT at RMIT with regional PR benefits.

Engineering

Civil, mechanical, electrical—engineering degrees remain among the strongest PR pathways.

Education & Teaching

Primary and secondary teachers are sought-after, especially in rural areas.

Social Work

A meaningful, high-demand field, also present on PR occupation lists.

Trade Courses (Plumbing, Carpentry)

Often overlooked, these low-cost, job-ready courses offer a fast PR track.

Most Popular Master Courses in Australia

• Master of Data Science: Future-forward, high-paying.
  
• Master of Public Health (MPH): Strong post-pandemic demand.
  
• Master of Business Analytics: The sweet spot between business and tech.
  
• MBA with Industry Immersion: Look for MBAs offering internships.
  
• Master of Engineering Management: A strong choice for engineers aiming at leadership.

Hidden Gems: High-ROI Courses Not Everyone Talks About

• Hospitality and Tourism: Jobs are abundant, though PR may take time.
  
• Agriculture and Environmental Science: Especially good in regional areas.
  
• Supply Chain and Logistics: Growing demand globally.
  
• Cybersecurity and AI: Niche, technical, and future-proof.

Short-Term Diplomas with Strong Job Demand

• Early Childhood Education: A stable job with PR potential.
  
• Commercial Cookery: Chefs are on the MLTSSL.
  
• Automotive Technology: Ideal for hands-on learners seeking skilled jobs.

How These Courses Help You Get PR in Australia

Understand the PR Formula

Courses aligned with the Medium to Long-Term Skills List (MLTSSL) help you score points for PR. Studying in regional areas adds extra points. Work experience and English language proficiency help even more.

State Nomination Advantage

Each state has unique demands. Courses that align with those needs make you eligible for nomination, fast-tracking your PR process.

Best Cities to Study in Australia for Indian Students

• Melbourne vs Sydney: Melbourne is more student-friendly and culturally rich; Sydney is fast-paced but expensive.
  
• Adelaide and Perth: Regional benefits, less competition, more PR points.
  
• Brisbane and Gold Coast: Affordable living with high job potential.

Tuition Fees and Scholarships

• Bachelor’s: AUD 20,000–35,000/year
  
• Master’s: AUD 25,000–45,000/year
  
• Diplomas: AUD 10,000–22,000/year

Scholarships to Explore

Many universities offer partial or full scholarships. Look into Commonwealth-supported schemes or specific offers like the Destination Australia Program.

Tip: I personally received a 50% tuition waiver from Deakin University simply by applying early and maintaining solid grades.

Life in Australia as an Indian Student

• Work While You Study: Up to 20 hours/week during semesters, full-time during breaks.
  
• Part-Time Job Options: Tutoring, admin roles, hospitality, delivery services.
  
• Indian Communities: From Diwali fests to cricket tournaments, cultural events help you feel at home.

Common Mistakes Indian Students Make

• Chasing Trends, Not Careers: Just because your cousin is doing an MBA doesn’t mean you should.
  
• Ignoring Regional Study Benefits: Regional campuses offer bonus PR points and cheaper living.
  
• Not Researching PR Links: If your course isn’t on the SOL, your PR pathway might be blocked.

Step-by-Step: How to Apply

1. Shortlist universities (Use CRICOS to ensure visa eligibility).
   
2. Prepare documents: SOP, LORs, Resume, IELTS/PTE.
   
3. Apply for CoE (Confirmation of Enrolment).
   
4. Apply for Student Visa (Subclass 500).

Alumni Snapshots

• Kochi to Canberra: A friend went from Master’s in IT to full-time tech job with PR in under three years.
  
• Delhi to Gold Coast: A hospitality diploma led to a successful café business and PR within four years.

Final Thoughts: Pick Smart, Not Just Popular

Australia offers opportunity—but only to those who play it smart. The right course can fast-track your career and your residency. Choose a field you enjoy that also offers strong employability and PR prospects.

Ready to Start Your Study Journey in Australia?

At ApplyOn, we help Indian students choose the right courses in Australia, secure scholarships, and build strategic PR pathways. Whether you’re planning to apply for master courses in Australia or explore short-term diplomas, our expert counselors are here to help.

Talk to ApplyOn today and get started on your future abroad.

FAQs

Which course is best for PR in Australia for Indian students?
Nursing, IT, engineering, social work, teaching, and trade courses are highly recommended.
How much does it cost to study in Australia?
Costs range between AUD 10,000–45,000 per year depending on your course level.
What’s the easiest PR pathway in Australia?
Studying in a regional area in a high-demand field like nursing or IT.
Can I stay in Australia after my course?
Yes. A Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) lets you stay for 2–4 years post-study.
Which city offers the best mix of PR and job options?
Perth and Adelaide for PR, Melbourne and Brisbane for jobs.