Best PR Courses in Australia - Top Universities, Eligibility Criteria & More

Top-notch universities, picturesque landscapes, and abundant job opportunities make Australia a lucrative destination for international students planning to study abroad. Apart from this, studying in Australia exposes students to a diverse range of people and cultures.

Have you ever thought of settling in Australia? Sounds like an adventure, right? Australia has some of the best student-friendly cities in the world, including Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide, and Perth. Getting a Permanent Residency in Australia allows foreign nationals to live, work, and study in the country indefinitely.

PR holders enjoy many rights and benefits similar to Australian citizens, including access to healthcare, education, and social services. They can travel in and out of Australia freely and have the option to apply for Australian citizenship after meeting the residency requirements. PR is granted through various visa pathways, such as skilled migration, family sponsorship, employer sponsorship, and the Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485). Australia's PR program is highly regarded due to its transparent and points-based system, which assesses applicants' qualifications, work experience, English language proficiency, and other factors. It provides a pathway for individuals to build their careers, contribute to the Australian economy, and become an integral part of the diverse and multicultural Australian society.

This being said, if you are also an international student planning to study in Australia with an aim to settle there, this blog is for you! Let’s begin exploring how to get a PR in Australia as an international student.

Australia is undeniably an amazing country to settle in, offering a plethora of unique qualities and opportunities that make it a sought-after destination for people worldwide. Here are some compelling reasons why Australia stands out as an incredible place to call home:

• Quality of Life: Australia consistently ranks high in global quality of life indices, boasting a clean environment, excellent healthcare, world-class education, and a safe and secure living environment. The country's commitment to providing a high standard of living ensures a comfortable and fulfilling lifestyle for its residents. 

• Diverse and Multicultural Society: Australia embraces diversity and is known for its welcoming and inclusive society. People from various backgrounds coexist harmoniously, enriching the nation's cultural fabric with their traditions, cuisines, and languages. 

• Stunning Natural Beauty: Australia's breathtaking landscapes are a sight to behold. The country offers unparalleled natural wonders, from the iconic Sydney Opera House and the Great Barrier Reef to vast outback expanses and pristine beaches. 

• A multitude of Outdoor Activities: From hiking and camping to surfing and snorkelling, Australia's outdoor opportunities are endless, allowing residents to connect with nature and lead active lifestyles. 

• Thriving Economy: Australia boasts a robust and resilient economy with abundant opportunities for employment and business ventures. It is a hub for innovation, technology, and research, offering a conducive career growth and entrepreneurship environment. 

• Safety and Security: As one of the safest countries in the world, Australia provides its residents with a secure and stable environment. Low crime rates and well-maintained public spaces contribute to safety and peace of mind. 

• Work-Life Balance: Australians value work-life balance, promoting a healthy and fulfilling lifestyle. The country's emphasis on leisure and recreational activities allows residents to enjoy a well-rounded lifestyle.

Australia is a popular destination for international students pursuing higher education and eventually obtaining Permanent Residency (PR). The country offers a diverse range of courses that align with the demands of the Australian job market but also contribute significantly to the skilled workforce in various industries. Here, we explore some of the best courses to enhance the chances of obtaining Permanent Residence in Australia.

Australia's booming IT industry has a high demand for skilled professionals. Courses in software development, data science, cybersecurity, and computer networking are highly sought after. Graduates in these fields often find numerous employment opportunities, and the Australian Government considers them valuable for the country's economy. Therefore it is considered one of the best PR courses in Australia. Top universities to study Information Technology and Computer Science courses in Australia includes:

• Australian National University

• University of Melbourne

• University of Sydney

• University of New South Wales

• Monash University

Australia greatly emphasises engineering, especially in sectors like civil, mechanical, electrical, and software engineering. As the nation invests heavily in infrastructure development and technological advancements, qualified engineers are in high demand, making this a promising pathway to get permanent residency in Australia. Here is a list of the best universities to study Engineering in Australia:

• University of New South Wales Sydney

• University of Technology Sydney

• University of Sydney

• University of Adelaide

• Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT)

With an ageing population, Australia faces a growing need for healthcare professionals. Nursing courses and other health-related courses like medicine, pharmacy, and allied health sciences offer excellent job opportunities for international students. Therefore it is one of the best PR courses in Australia. Some of the top universities to study Nursing and Healthcare in Australia are:

• University of Technology Sydney (UTS)

• University of Sydney

• University of Melbourne

• Monash University

• Macquarie University

Accounting professionals are in demand across various industries in Australia. Completing courses in accounting, finance, or related fields can lead to PR, especially when students acquire additional certifications from professional accounting bodies. Below are some top-notch universites to study accounting and finance in Australia.

• University of New South Wales (UNSW Sydney)

• University of Melbourne

• University of Sydney

• Australian National University (ANU)

• Monash University

Australia values skilled educators to maintain its high-quality education system. Graduates in early childhood education, primary and secondary teaching, or specialised fields like TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) can explore PR pathways. Here is a list of some of the best universities in Australia for Education courses.

• Deakin University

• Monash University

• University of New South Wales Sydney

• Curtin University

• Australian Catholic University

Australia prioritises the welfare of its citizens, making social work and community services crucial. Courses in these fields equip students with skills to support vulnerable populations, enhancing their chances of obtaining PR in Australia. So, here we have provided some of the top universities to study social work and community services-related courses in Australia.

• University of New South Wales (UNSW)

• Griffith University

• Edith Cowan University

• University of Newcastle

• James Cook University

With ongoing urban development and infrastructure projects, courses in architecture and urban planning offer prospects for PR, especially when aligned with sustainable practices. Below are some of the best universities to study architecture in Australia.

• University of Melbourne

• Monash University

• University of Queensland

• University of Sydney

• University of South Wales

Australia's vibrant tourism industry demands skilled hospitality and tourism management professionals. Courses in these areas can open doors to PR, especially when combined with practical experience. Some of the top-notch universities in Australia to study hospitality and tourism management are:

• Blue Mountains International Hotel Management School

• Griffith University

• Bond University

• University of Queensland

• Murdoch University

Vocational education and training (VET) courses in areas such as plumbing, carpentry, and automotive repair are highly regarded in Australia. Skilled tradespeople are in demand, particularly in regional areas, which can lead to PR opportunities. The top institutes to study trade and vocational courses in Canada are:

• Victoria University

• Australian College of Trade

• Australian Institute of Technical training

• Australian Trade training college

• Trade Institute of Victoria

Obtaining a Permanent Residency in Australia offers numerous benefits for international students, providing them a pathway to a stable and fulfilling life there. Some key advantages of PR in Australia for international students include:

• PR allows international students to live and work in Australia indefinitely without needing student visas or work permits. They have the freedom to pursue their careers and build a life in the country. 

• PR holders have access to Australia's world-class healthcare system, Medicare and can also benefit from reduced fees for higher education at Australian universities and colleges. 

• With PR, international students are no longer restricted to work in specific fields or on-campus jobs. They can work in any occupation and change jobs without visa constraints. 

• PR holders are eligible for various social security benefits the Australian government provides, including unemployment benefits and family assistance. 

• After meeting Australia PR requirements, PR holders can apply for Australian citizenship, gaining the privilege to vote and access more benefits. 

• PR allows international students to travel in and out of Australia without restrictions. They can travel for leisure or work purposes without additional visas. 

• PR holders have the opportunity to sponsor eligible family members to come and live in Australia, promoting family reunification.

 The eligibility criteria for international students to obtain PR in Australia vary depending on their chosen visa pathway. Here is the best way to get PR in Australia for international students:

• After finishing their education, students may apply for PR in Australia. 

• Students may apply under Subclass 485 for the post-study work visa after completing a minimum of two years of study in the nation. It is also known as Graduate Temporary Visa.

• There is a Graduate Temporary visa for international students who plan to study in Australia for a few years. Thus, they are permitted to live and work in the nation for a period of 18 months to 4 years.

 It's essential to note that the pathway to PR in Australia is not solely determined by the course of study. There are certain other criteria that international students must complete in order to complete the Australia PR process. Below are some important points that you must take care of.

• The Australian Study Requirements must be followed. In Australia, you should enrol in a higher education or vocational programme for at least two years. 

• The ANZSCO Job Descriptions should include information about your line of work. 

• You should submit your visa application six months in advance. 

• Your course must be registered with CRICOS. 

• For Australian officials to assess whether the candidates have a solid command of the language and won't experience any language-related issues while living there, an IELTS overall band score of 8.0 is essential.

Q: In Australia, what profession is best for PR?
A: You must work in a particular field to be eligible for PR in Australia. This is relevant to a few professions, including those of a doctor, teacher, computer scientist, engineer, dentist, social worker, mechanical engineer, chef, psychiatric practitioner, etc.

Q: How many points are needed for Australian PR?
A: You need at least 65 points to qualify for PR in Australia. However, as your total point rises, so do your chances of qualifying.

Q: Can I get PR in Australia after studying there?
A: Yes, international students can easily get PR in Australia after completing a minimum of 2 years of education there through Graduate Temporary Visa. 

Q: Is it easy to get PR in Australia for international students?
A: A PR invitation is often easier to obtain for a high-demand career for which few people have the requisite training and experience. Australia needs competent immigrants with high educational standards and employment potential to support its economy. Most positions are available through Australia's Skilled Migration programme, which you can choose from when you apply for a PR visa.

Q: What are the best states to get PR in Australia?
A: Some of the best states to get PR in Australia as an international student includes Brisbane, Melbourne, Canberra, Perth and Sydney.

In conclusion, Australia promises a vibrant and enriching experience, whether it's for study, work, or a fresh start in life. Obtaining PR in Australia is a significant achievement for international students, offering a multitude of benefits and opportunities for personal and professional growth. Choosing courses aligned with the skill demands in Australia can significantly increase the likelihood of obtaining PR. The country's robust education system, diverse job opportunities, and supportive immigration policies make it an attractive destination for international students seeking long-term residency and career growth prospects.

If you are still unsure or would like to get deeper insight, we encourage you to have a word with our team of expert counsellors at Meridean Overseas Education Consultants (MOEC). If you are unable to travel to our offices, we offer online counselling services via our website. Our dedicated counsellors will provide you with the best guidance regarding your application to study in Australia.  Apart from this, our expert counsellors will also provide assistance in the visa process for your successful study abroad journey. Don't hesitate to contact us at application02@meridean.org or call us at 1800-1230-00011.