Your comprehensive guide to studying in Australia 2026: Visa & PR opportunities

1. Australia continues to solidify its position as a global education powerhouse, offering several prominent advantages:

• World-Class educational quality: Australia is home to numerous top-ranked universities globally, offering diverse, practical, and universally recognized training programs. Australian degrees are highly valued, unlocking boundless international career opportunities.
• Promising post-study work and immigration prospects: With the strategic framework of the Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) alongside the government's strong emphasis on the Priority Migration Skilled Occupation List, Australia opens grand pathways for international students to advance their careers, enjoy highly competitive salaries, and secure long-term permanent residency (PR).
• An ideal living environment: Renowned for its breathtaking natural landscapes, temperate climate, welcoming locals, and rich multiculturalism, Australia provides a safe and fulfilling life experience. Major metropolitan hubs such as Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Perth, and Adelaide consistently rank among the world's most livable cities.
• Comprehensive international student support policies: The Australian Government, in tandem with educational institutions, consistently implements robust welfare and support initiatives to help international students seamlessly integrate and thrive.
• Extended part-time working hours: International students in Australia are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight while university is in session, and enjoy unrestricted working hours during official course breaks. This policy serves as a significant financial relief while allowing students to gain invaluable, real-world professional experience.

2. Cost of studying in Australia 2026

The cost of studying in Australia includes tuition fees, living expenses, and other extra costs. Here is an estimate of the average costs for 2026:

2.1. Average Tuition Fees (AUD/year)

• Primary and Secondary School (Grade 1 - 12): AUD 12,000 - AUD 22,000
• Vocational Education and Training (VET): AUD 6,000 - AUD 15,000
• Foundation/Pathway Programs: AUD 22,000 - AUD 60,000
• Bachelor’s Degree (Undergraduate): AUD 13,000 - AUD 55,000
• Postgraduate Degree (Master's/PhD): AUD 15,000 - AUD 60,000

2.2. Cost of Living (AUD/year)

As of 2026, the official minimum living expense required by the Australian government is AUD 29,710/year. Here is a breakdown of what this money covers:

• Accommodation: AUD 450 - AUD 1,200/week (depending on your choice: student accommodation, homestay, or renting a room/apartment).
• Food and groceries: AUD 100 - AUD 200/week.
• Transportation: AUD 30 - AUD 60/week.
• Entertainment & personal expenses: AUD 80 - AUD 150/week.
• Electricity, water, and internet: AUD 50 - AUD 150/week.

2.3. Other Expenses

• Student visa fee (Subclass 500): From AUD 2,000 (for the main applicant).
• Medical check-up fee: Around VND 2,000,000 - VND 2,500,000.
• Biometrics Fee: Around VND 296,000.
• OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover): Around AUD 600 - AUD 800/year (depending on your insurance provider and plan).
• Airfare: Costs depend on the airline and timing (usually ranging from VND 10,000,000 - VND 25,000,000).

In general, the total cost for your first year of studying in Australia ranges from AUD 50,000 to AUD 80,000. This depends heavily on your school, your major, and the city you live in. Therefore, making a detailed financial plan is very important.

3. High-demand majors and permanent residency (PR) opportunities in Australia 2026

Choosing the right major not only fosters your personal growth but also unlocks great pathways to permanent residency (PR) in Australia. Here are the top in-demand fields facing severe labor shortages with high PR prospects in 2026:

• Healthcare and Nursing: This sector remains a top priority due to Australia's aging population and expanding healthcare system. Roles like Registered Nurses and Midwives are heavily sought after.
• Information Technology (IT): With the digital boom, specialized fields such as Data Science, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Cybersecurity, and Software Engineering are highly valued and respected.
• Engineering: Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Environmental, Software, and Chemical Engineers enjoy steady, long-term demand across Australia's major infrastructure developments.
• Education and Teaching: Early Childhood, Primary, Secondary, and Special Education teachers are in critical shortage across almost all Australian states and territories.
• Accounting and Finance: Businesses and large organizations continue to offer stable opportunities for qualified Accountants, Auditors, and Financial Analysts.
• Social Work and Psychology: Community welfare workers and psychological counselors are seeing increased demand within public and regional support services.
• Logistics and Supply Chain Management: Driven by global trade shifts, this sector requires high-quality talent to manage modern, complex supply networks.
• Skilled Trades: Australia is facing a major shortage of technical trade workers. High-paying roles include Bricklayers, Carpenters, Painters, Chefs, and Electricians.

Important Note: Immigration policies change periodically. To ensure absolute accuracy and receive a tailored plan for your future, always check the latest Skilled Occupation List (SOL) or the Core Skills Occupation List (COSL) issued by the Australian Department of Home Affairs.

4. Scholarships for studying in Australia 2026

Australia offers a wide range of attractive scholarship programs for international students, with funding reaching up to 100%. These are granted directly by the Australian Government, as well as various universities and colleges. To maximize your chances of securing a scholarship, you should focus on the following pillars:

• Maintain outstanding academic records: Achieve a high GPA.
• Secure strong english proficiency scores: Aim for high results in IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL.
• Build an active profile: Participate in extracurricular activities, scientific research, or possess relevant work experience.
• Prepare an impressive application: Craft a compelling personal essay and secure strong letters of recommendation.

At Rightway, with over 12 years of professional experience and deep-rooted connections with institutional school representatives, we have successfully secured thousands of high-value scholarships for Vietnamese students looking to study in Australia.

Contact us today for a free profile assessment and personalized guidance to find the most suitable scholarship options for your abilities and academic goals!