Queensland is a place where you can experience a world-class education system – no matter what level of study you are looking to gain entry to. The education system in Australia has incredibly diverse learning opportunities for students of all ages, from primary school right through to higher education, which is why Queensland is the perfect destination for achieving academic excellence.

Structure of the Australian education system

The Australian education system is structured in a very specific way to cater to different stages of learning. After early childhood education, students follow a set learning course at either private schools or government schools:

Primary school

Primary schools in Queensland are where children learn from Prep (preparatory year) to Year 6. It focuses on foundational skills in literacy, numeracy, social development and physical education, which prepares students for their secondary education at high school.

High school

Secondary school education in Queensland runs from Year 7 to Year 12. Senior secondary school includes a broad curriculum made up of core subjects and electives, which gives students the freedom to specialise in areas of interest and prepare them for higher education or vocational training.

English courses

In Queensland you’ll be able to study dedicated English courses (ELICOS) designed to improve your language proficiency for academic, professional or personal purposes. These courses are great for international students who want to grow their English skills.

Vocational Education and Training

Vocational Education and Training (VET) equips students with practical skills and qualifications for various trades and professions. VET courses are available at TAFE QLD and private colleges around Queensland, and they generally focus on hands-on experience and industry-relevant skills.

Higher education

Queensland's higher education sector is made up of universities and private colleges that offer undergraduate and postgraduate degrees. Grounded in research excellence and innovative teaching models, these institutions are the ideal place to gain advanced knowledge and skills in your chosen field.

How Australia’s education system supports international students

Education services for overseas students

The Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act 2000 is the legal framework governing the responsibility of Australian educational institutions for overseas students.

ESOS regulation serving overseas students in Australia

The Australian Government wants international students to have a rewarding and enjoyable experience when they come to Australia to study. Australia offers high quality education services and protects the rights of international students to ensure you make the most of your time here. Learn more with the ESOS Student Factsheet.

CRICOS

All Australian institutions wishing to offer programs to international students on student visas must be registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS).

English Australia

English Australia (EA) is the national association for accredited public and private English language colleges in Australia and promotes quality English language training.

National ELT Accreditation Scheme

The National ELT Accreditation Scheme (NEAS Australia) is Australia’s national accreditation scheme for English Language Teaching centres.

Find your ideal study destination

Learn more about Queensland’s incredibly diverse study destinations to find the perfect place for your education in Australia. Whether you prefer the busy city life of Brisbane, the coastal beauty of Cairns, the Gold Coast or Sunshine Coast, or the regional charm of cities like Rockhampton, Toowoomba or Townsville, Queensland has so many different locations to choose from. Visit our Destinations page to learn more.

Navigating visa options for your Australian education

When you are looking to study in Queensland, you will need to know which visa to apply for. Common visas include the Student Visa (subclass 500), Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) and Training Visa (subclass 407). Each visa type has specific requirements that you will need to comply with, and once granted you will be able to study, work and live in Australia. For more detailed information, visit our Visas page and Overseas Student Health Cover page.