International Students

High and Primary Schools Fees

International students may be able to bring their family with them when they come to study in Australia. If you have children aged between 6 – 18 (Australian school age), they may be required to enrol and study at an Australian Primary or Secondary School. Organising schooling for your children generally needs to be done prior to applying for your own student visa.

Schooling System Overview

Primary School

Age Group: 5 – 13 years
Grades: Prep to Grade 6
Education Journey: Begins with a preparatory class to prepare the child for their educational journey, ending at grade 6 before moving on to High School.

High School

Age Group: 13- 18 years
Grades: 7 through to 12
Completion: Students complete their education by sitting an exam in year 12 that encapsulates everything they have learned over their schooling life.

Enrolment and School Fees

To enrol in a state school, contact the State Education Department that deals with international students. While local schools can provide information, all enrolments must be finalised through the State Education Authority for international students.

A guide to the annual fees for Australian Government (State) Schools, listed by state:

Queensland: $14,100.00 AU – $17,600.00 AU
New South Wales: $15,000.00 AU – $18,400.00 AU
Victoria: $13,200.00 AU – $26,820.00 AU
South Australia: $11,400.00 AU – $15,000.00 AU
Western Australia: $14,600.00 AU – $19,000.00 AU

*Prices were correct as of 2024. Some students may be eligible for fee exemptions; contact the State Authority for more information.

General Requirements

The prerequisites for international students to enter primary and high school programs in Australia highlight the need for English proficiency and adherence to program durations.

These requirements are designed to ensure that international students have the language skills needed to succeed in their studies in Australia. It’s important for prospective students and their families to understand these prerequisites fully and to prepare accordingly, including through language preparation programs if necessary.

Primary School

Duration: Minimum program period is six months.
English Proficiency: Proof of English level or participation in a Young Learners Program is required.

High School

English Requirements:

  • Year 7 & 8: IELTS 4.0 – TOEFL = 31
  • Year 9: IELTS 4.5 – TOEFL = 32
  • Year 10: IELTS 5.0 – TOEFL = 35
  • Year 11: IELTS 5.5 – TOEFL = 46
  • Year 12: IELTS 6.0 – TOEFL = 60

Students not meeting these requirements can partake in a High School preparation course to reach the required level.

Language Support

If your child’s English is not at the level required to enter school in Australia, they can undertake a preparation program with other international students.

Young Learners Program

The Young Learners Course is designed to help young students learn about Australian culture and lifestyle, express their thoughts about themselves, and prepare them for integration into a domestic Primary school. Assessment Activities are carried out daily to monitor the progress of the students and make sure that they are fully prepared for entering the Australian Education System.

Course Features:

  • A placement test determines the level most appropriate for your child.
  • Weekly activities and monthly excursions complement your class program.
  • Course material is varied and fun, including internet research, extracts from books and movies, television and radio programs, singing, and drama.
  • Students take part in sporting and co-curricular activities with local schools.
  • Small class sizes guarantee individual attention.

High School Preparation

This course is designed to help students wanting to study in an Australian High School develop the required level of English language proficiency. The course includes English for Mathematics, English for Science, Novel, Academic Writing and Public Speaking.

The course delivery encourages positive, pro-active learning, with caring individual attention. Students develop self-confidence, maturity and self-awareness, while developing effective study habits appropriate to cope with the demands of the Australian education system. Assessment activities will be carried out as an integral part of the ‘every day’ teaching cycle. Student progress is monitored through regular assessment and class participation and programs are flexible to meet the needs of the individual students.

Course Features:

  • A placement test determines the level most appropriate for you.
  • Weekly activities and monthly excursions complement your class program.
  • Course material is varied and fun, including: internet research, extracts from books and movies, television and radio programs, singing and drama.
  • Students take part in sporting and co-curricula activities with local high schools.
  • Small class sizes guarantee individual attention.