Australia University Application Guide

Your GSAT Scores Can Get You into Top Australian Universities!

Australia has long been one of the most popular destinations for Taiwanese students pursuing study abroad or language immersion programs. Compared to other English peaking countries like the U.S. or the U.K., Australia offers relatively lower tuition fees while still providing world-class higher education and internationally recognized degrees.

In addition, students who complete their studies in Australia are eligible to apply for a post study work visa of up to two years, giving them valuable opportunities to gain international work experience and plan their future careers. This makes Australia highly competitive in the global study abroad market.

Typically, a bachelor’s degree in Australia takes three years to complete. An honours degree requires four years, while some specialized programs such as engineering, law, or medicine may take between four to seven years, depending on the field.

1. Pros and Cons of Studying in Australia

✅Advantages:

University application requirements are relatively simple, and no personal resume is required.
Application deadlines are later (compared to US/UK universities), and admission results are obtained faster.
Bachelor’s degree programs are diverse, and degrees can be completed in a shorter time.
Various visa options are available, making immigration easier.
Close proximity to Taiwan with minimal time difference.
Universities generally offer rich resources and more scholarship opportunities.

❌Disadvantages:

Fewer university options available.
Limited development in certain fields of study.

2. Differences Between the Taiwanese and Australian Education Systems

Click here: The Ultimate Guide to Education Systems! Understand the Differences Between the UK, US, Canada, and Australia All at Once!

3. Introduction to Application Pathways

1.Studying High School Locally in Australia

The Australian high school system differs from Taiwan’s. Taiwanese students who wish to attend high school in Australia typically start from Year 11 (equivalent to Grade 11), because the ATAR program lasts two years, spanning Year 11 and Year 12. After completing these two years, students can apply directly to Australian universities using their ATAR scores (Australia’s equivalent of university entrance exams). This pathway not only saves time but also allows students to adapt to the local environment earlier.

2. Foundation

University foundation programs are preparatory bridging courses designed for international students to help them transition into university studies. The program typically lasts about one year.

Taiwanese students can generally apply after completing Year 11 (equivalent to the second year of senior high school) without needing their Taiwan GSAT exam scores; they only need to submit their current school academic records. The foundation program includes compulsory subjects such as English and Mathematics, along with elective courses related to the student’s intended university major.

3. Diploma

University diploma programs are designed to prepare students for entry into the second year of Australian universities. The duration is typically 8 to 12 months, with content similar to the first year of university in Taiwan.

Diploma programs are taught in small classes, have lower entry requirements, and are relatively more affordable. However, it is important to note that not all universities or majors offer diploma programs.

4. Taiwan GSAT, SAT, or IBDP Scores

Some Australian universities accept Taiwan’s GSAT scores. If the scores are excellent, students can apply directly to first-year university courses without needing to complete foundation or diploma programs.

Australian universities that accept Taiwan GSAT scores include:

School	Popular Majors	2025 QS World University Rankings
The University of Sydney	Business, Law, Architecture	18
University of New South Wales	Engineering, Computer Science, Architecture, Business	19
Australian National University	Diplomacy, Business, Engineering, and Information Technology	30
Monash University	Pharmacy and Pharmacology, Nursing, Education, Anatomy, Finance, Law	37
The University of Queensland	Sports Science, Psychology, Education	40
Macquarie University	Applied Finance, Actuarial Science, Accounting, and International Trade	133

4. Application Documents

Passport
Official transcripts of highest academic qualification (in English)
Graduation certificate of highest academic qualification (in English)
English proficiency test scores: IELTS, PTE (requirements vary depending on the program)

*If English proficiency scores do not meet the requirements, students can attend university-affiliated language schools. Upon passing, they can directly enter university, which also helps them adjust to the Australian learning environment before starting demanding university courses.

English resume
English personal statement
Research proposal (in English)
2-3 recommendation letters (optional, depending on the university requirements)

5. Application Timeline and Process

Most Australian schools follow a two-semester academic year, while a few adopt a three semester system. It is recommended to confirm the enrollment dates of your preferred schools and start preparations 6 months to 1 year in advance. This allows for greater flexibility in handling application documents, IELTS exams, and travel arrangements.

Enrollment Periods

Two semester system: Feb and Jul each year
Three semester system: Feb, May, and Sep each year

Suggested Timeline (For July Intake)

Oct-Nov: First consultation with Valour advisor

Nov-Dec: School selection, schedule confirmation, and document preparation

Jan: Take GSAT and prepare for English tests (Valour offers IELTS and PTE courses)

Feb: Advisor assists with university application submission

Mar-Apr: Receive admission offers

May-Jun: Advisor assists with visa, flight, and accommodation arrangements

Jul: Depart for Australia!

6. Estimated Costs

Tuition Fees: Bachelor’s degree tuition fees are approximately AUD 30,000 to 45,000 per year, varying by university and program.
Living Expenses: Based on the cost of living in Melbourne and Sydney, including food, accommodation, and transportation, the annual expenses range from AUD 40,000 to 55,000.

Using an exchange rate of 1:20, the total annual cost for tuition and living expenses is roughly TWD 800,000 to 1,100,000.

7. Visa

Student Visa (Subclass 500)

Applicable for full-time courses longer than three months
Fee: AU$1,600 (subject to changes on the Australian Immigration website)
Processing time: Approximately 7 to 28 working days
Required documents: Passport, Confirmation of Enrolment (eCoE), Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) assessment, proof of financial capacity, medical examination report, etc.

Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)

Applicable for international students who have completed a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree listed on the CRICOS register in Australia
Requirements: Under 50 years old, IELTS score of 6.0 (no band below 5.0), held a student visa within the past 6 months
Allows work, travel, and preparation for migration

8. Q＆A

Q: Can I work while holding a student visa?
A: Student visas issued by Australia automatically include work rights. After entering Australia, you can legally work up to 48 hours per fortnight during the school term, with no limit on working hours during school holidays.

Q: Is studying in Australia worth it?
A: Among many English speaking countries, Australia offers reasonable tuition fees, pleasant climate, and a safe living environment. Additionally, due to severe labor shortages in recent years, many professional sectors urgently need overseas talent, and salary levels are generally much higher than in Taiwan.