Australia continues to be a top choice for international students after completing 12th grade, offering globally respected programs across business, engineering, IT, nursing, and environmental science. Tuition fees for bachelor’s degrees typically range from AUD 26,000 to 56,000 per year, while diploma courses start as low as AUD 4,000 annually. Students benefit from strong post-study work rights, high graduate salaries (up to AUD 120,000/year), and pathways to permanent residency. Whether you choose a university degree or vocational program, Australia’s diverse course options, quality of education, and career outcomes make it a solid investment.
So, you have just wrapped up 12th grade, and now you are eyeing Australia for your next big move? Not a bad plan at all. Australia’s got top-ranked universities, flexible work rights, and degrees that can actually take you places. But hey, we get it. Picking the right course is a big deal. It’s not just about what sounds cool, its about what pays well, lands you a job, or maybe even gets you closer to PR.
Here’s a complete breakdown of the best bachelors and diploma courses you can study in Australia after 12th, what they cost, what you could earn, and how they might set you up for the future.
What are the most in-demand courses in Australia for international students after 12ᵗʰ?
Let’s keep it real. Some courses just make more sense career-wise in 2025. Based on employment trends, salaries, and migration potential, here are the big winners:
Top courses after 12th:
- Business & Commerce
- Engineering
- Information Technology
- Nursing & Allied Health
- Environmental Science
- Hospitality & Tourism
- Early Childhood Education
- Graphic & Digital Design
Why is Business still a top course in Australia?
Because it’s super versatile. A business degree can take you into finance, marketing, HR, entrepreneurship, you name it.
Details:
- Fees: AUD 26,750 to 52,000/year
- Starting Salary: Around AUD 60,000–90,000/year
- Top Unis: University of Sydney, UNSW, Monash
- Good to Know: Business grads are still in demand across Australia, and many unis offer paid internships or co-op programs to help you get work-ready faster.
Is Engineering a good option for PR and salary?
Absolutely, yes. Whether it’s civil, mechanical, software, or electrical, engineers are needed everywhere in Oz, especially in infrastructure and regional development.
Quick facts:
- Fees: AUD 47,000–56,000/year
- Starting Pay: AUD 70,000–100,000/year
- Top Unis: University of Queensland, RMIT, Monash
- Extra Tip: Many engineering fields are listed under Australia’s Skilled Occupation List, so you’ve got better odds for PR.
Is Information Technology still booming in 2025?
Oh yeah, and it’s not slowing down anytime soon. Australia’s tech industry is crying out for grads in AI, cybersecurity, and data analytics.
Snapshot:
- Fees: AUD 43,000–52,000/year
- Pay Range: AUD 80,000–120,000/year
- Best for: Students into coding, networking, or anything digital
- Top Unis: UTS, UniMelb, Deakin
- Insider Tip: Internships with tech giants like IBM and Atlassian are common if you’re in the right uni.
Why is Nursing one of the safest bets?
Jobs, security, decent pay, and PR options, it’s got everything. If you’ve got the heart for healthcare, Australia’s healthcare system needs you.
Here’s the scoop:
- Tuition: AUD 26,000–43,500/year
- Starting Pay: AUD 75,000–95,000/year
- Universities: Griffith, Deakin, UniSA
- PR Insight: Nursing is on the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List, which gives you a boost in migration points.
Should I consider Environmental Science?
Definitely, if you care about sustainability and climate action. Australia invests heavily in environmental research, and jobs in this field are growing.
What to expect:
- Fees: Around AUD 29,990/year
- Salaries: AUD 60,000–85,000/year
- Top Schools: James Cook University, University of Queensland, ANU
- Cool Fact: You might end up doing fieldwork near coral reefs, rainforests, or the outback.
Can I study Hospitality or Travel after 12ᵗʰ?
Yes! Australia’s tourism industry is picking up again, and there’s a real need for skilled professionals.
Breakdown:
- Diploma Fees: AUD 4,000–8,000/year
- Pay Range: AUD 50,000–65,000/year
- Institutes: Blue Mountains Hotel School, William Angliss
- Why It’s Popular: Part-time work is everywhere—from cafes to resorts—so you can earn while you learn.
What’s up with Early Childhood Education?
This course is ideal for students who want to work with kids and build a stable, respected career.
What you need to know:
- Diploma Cost: AUD 4,000–8,000/year
- Salaries: Start at around AUD 50,000–60,000/year
- Bonus: The demand is high in regional areas, which also means better PR prospects.
Is Design or Graphic Arts a good course after 12th?
Totally! If you’re into creativity, UI/UX, or digital media, this space is buzzing with opportunity.
Fast facts:
- Diploma Fees: AUD 4,000–8,000/year
- Earnings: AUD 55,000–70,000/year
- Universities: RMIT, Swinburne, UNSW
- Why it rocks: You can freelance on the side while studying, and many students get hired straight from their portfolios.
Quick Comparison Table
| Course | Tuition (AUD/year) | Salary (AUD/year) | PR Friendly? |
| Business & Commerce | 26,750 – 52,000 | 60,000 – 90,000 | Moderate |
| Engineering | 47,000 – 56,000 | 70,000 – 100,000 | High |
| IT | 43,000 – 52,000 | 80,000 – 120,000 | High |
| Nursing | 26,000 – 43,500 | 75,000 – 95,000 | Very High |
| Environmental Science | 29,990 | 60,000 – 85,000 | High |
| Hospitality (Diploma) | 4,000 – 8,000 | 50,000 – 65,000 | Moderate |
| Early Childhood (Diploma) | 4,000 – 8,000 | 50,000 – 60,000 | High |
| Graphic Design (Diploma) | 4,000 – 8,000 | 55,000 – 70,000 | Moderate |
Conclusion
You don’t need to figure everything out right now. But knowing which courses line up with solid careers, good pay, and maybe a PR pathway? That’s a smart place to start. Whether you’re tech-savvy, business-minded, or have a heart for healthcare, Australia has something for you.
Just remember: pick what excites you, not just what pays more. Your study abroad journey should be worth it on all fronts.
Related Post:
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- Cost of Living in Australia for International Students
- Popular Courses for International Students in Australia
- Top Cities in Australia for International Students
- Affordable Cities for International Students in Australia
- Upcoming Intakes in Australia 2025-2026
- 5 Top Apps to Boost Your Budget
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the best courses to study in Australia after 12th?
Business, Engineering, IT, Nursing, and Environmental Science are top-rated courses offering strong job outcomes and global recognition.
2. Can I study in Australia after completing 12th in India?
Yes, Indian students can apply to Australian universities after 12th with required academic scores and English proficiency test results.
3. Which course in Australia has the highest salary after graduation?
Information Technology and Engineering courses often lead to high-paying jobs, with graduates earning up to AUD 120,000/year.
4. How much does it cost to study a bachelor’s degree in Australia?
Tuition fees typically range from AUD 26,000 to 56,000 per year depending on the course and university.
5. What are diploma courses in Australia after 12th?
Diploma courses like Nursing Assistant, Hospitality, Graphic Design, and Early Childhood Education offer affordable and fast-track pathways to work or further studies.
6. Is IELTS required to study in Australia after 12th?
Yes, most universities require IELTS scores of 6.0 to 7.0, or equivalent test results such as TOEFL or PTE.
7. Are scholarships available for international students after 12th in Australia?
Many Australian universities offer scholarships for academic merit, sports achievements, or financial need.
8. Which city in Australia is best for students after 12th?
Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane are popular for academic quality, but Adelaide and Hobart are more affordable and equally student-friendly.
9. Can I work part-time while studying in Australia?
Yes, student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and full-time during holidays.
10. How long is a bachelor’s degree in Australia?
Most bachelor’s degrees take 3 to 4 years to complete, depending on the program.
11. What are the eligibility criteria to study in Australia after 12th?
You need to complete 12th grade with minimum required marks, meet subject prerequisites, and provide proof of English proficiency.
12. Are there short-term courses I can take after 12th in Australia?
Yes, certificate and short-term programs in digital marketing, IT, or design are available and cost-effective.
13. What are the benefits of studying diploma courses after 12th in Australia?
Diplomas are affordable, job-oriented, and often offer credit towards a full bachelor’s degree.
14. Can I study medicine in Australia after 12th?
Yes, but it’s highly competitive. Students typically need excellent academic scores and may have to take additional tests like the UCAT.
15. Is Australia better than the UK or Canada for courses after 12th?
Australia offers better work rights, high post-study job opportunities, and a strong path to PR compared to many countries.