Study in Australia: Myths vs Reality Every Indian Student Should Know

Do you know that more than 122,209 Indian students are enrolled in Australian institutions? Australia is home to some of the world’s best universities, boasting a multicultural environment and offering post-study work opportunities as well. But everything isn’t as good as it seems from the outside. The reality of studying in Australia is much different from what your counsellor has told you. If you’re aspiring to study in Australia, this blog is for you. We’ll discuss everything you need to know before you make the final decision to move to Australia.

1. Admission doesn’t mean Visa Approval

One of the biggest misconceptions students have is that securing admission to an Australian university guarantees a student visa. The decision of whether or not you get admission is entirely dependent on the university you choose, while approving your visa application is in the hands of Australia’s Department of Home Affairs. They are completely separate processes managed by completely different authorities.

If your education agent or admission counsellor is promising to get your visa approved, it’s a lie. While they can help you write your visa application and guide you through the process, the authority to approve it doesn’t lie with them. You can apply for a student visa once you get an acceptance or offer letter from your university.

2. The Education System Is Completely Different

One thing Indian students quickly realise when they study in Australia is how different the academic expectations are. The Australian Education System is very different from the indian system. It’s more interactive, research-based, and self-driven. For their first few months in Australia, Indian students face both cultural and academic shock. You’ll need to participate in more group discussions, engage in critical thinking, and conduct independent research.

You’ll get assignments that will involve more than just rephrasing your textbook. You’ll have to strictly follow assignment guidelines and proper citation and referencing styles, and take care of Plagiarism issues. Assignments will also involve journal reviews, group presentations, and writing analytical essays.

That’s why it’s good to mentally prepare yourself for the change. If English is your weak spot, then our advice would be to work on improving your English as well. If Assignments feel like a lot of trouble to you, then you can always reach out to us at India Assignment Help, and we’ll be more than happy to help.

3. Part-Time Won’t Cover Your Entire Tuition

One of the most dangerous myths among students who want to study in Australia is that you can work part-time and earn enough to pay for your tuition. Unfortunately, this isn’t realistic. International students in Australia can work up to 20 hours per week, which typically covers basic monthly expenses such as rent, food, and transportation. Tuition fees are high, ranging from AUD 14,000 to AUD 25,000 per semester, and they’re rising every day. Although you can work unlimited hours during summer breaks, even then, funding your entire tuition is next to impossible unless you’re working a high-paying, skilled job. So, if you’re coming to Australia thinking you’ll pay for tuition just by working part-time, think again.

4. Post-Study Work Visa Isn’t Automatic

Another common misconception is related to the Post-Study Work Visa (Subclass 485). Yes, Australia allows students who complete a qualifying degree to apply for a post-study work visa. However, remember that not everyone understands. It’s not something you get automatically after completing your degree. You have to apply for it, and the eligibility depends on several conditions:

• Your course must be CRICOS registered
• It must be at least two years in duration
• You must complete it successfully and on time

Even if all conditions are met, the Department of Home Affairs has the final say. There’s no guarantee of approval, so approach it with the right expectations.

5. A Degree Doesn’t Guarantee Permanent Residency (PR)

This is the biggest lie that education counsellors tell their clients: that graduating from an Australian university puts you on a direct path to permanent residency. It’s a big Myth among students. A degree alone does not qualify you for PR.

Yes, completing a degree in Australia gives you five extra points under the points-based immigration system, but that’s not enough. To qualify for PR, your skills and qualifications must align with an occupation on Australia’s Skilled Occupation List (SOL).

For example, if you studied Environmental Science but the occupation isn't listed under the eligible skilled jobs, you can’t apply for PR based on that degree.

Before choosing a course to study in Australia, check the SOL to ensure your degree and career path align with any listed occupations.

6. Your Degree Needs Skill Assessment Before PR

Once you’ve earned your degree and wish to use it for a PR application, your next step is to obtain a skills assessment from the relevant body, such as VETASSESS or ACS, depending on your field.

They evaluate whether your education and work experience match the job description of a nominated occupation. Even an Australian degree can be rejected if it doesn’t align with the role. For instance, if you studied marketing but lack relevant work experience, you may not receive a positive assessment. Similarly, if you learned something else and are working in a completely different field, you’re likely to receive a negative assessment.

You can only apply for PR if:

• Your job is on the Skilled Occupation List
• Your qualifications and experience pass the assessment
• You meet age, English, and other eligibility criteria

7. In-Demand Jobs and Skilled Occupations are Different

Some fields, such as Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity, are highly sought after in today’s job market, but if they’re not included in SOL, then they won’t lead to a PR pathway. So, always remember that checking industry demand for a job is necessary, but if you want a PR, you’ll also have to ensure that it’s on the Skilled Occupation list.

If you want to study in Australia, research the course outcomes carefully, match them to the relevant immigration pathway, and determine whether the investment aligns with your long-term goals.

8. PR Eligibility Includes Factors Other than Your Degree

PR in Australia depends on a mix of factors, including

• Age
• IELTS/PTE score
• Work experience
• Degree relevance
• Partner’s profile
• Points-based expression of interest (EOI)

You need to submit an EOI and hope to get invited. Even then, there’s no assurance. So don’t go unthinkingly trusting agents who promise a PR after a study. Their job is to enrol you; that’s where they earn their commission. Once you land in Australia, you’re on your own.

Instead, research:

• The types of visas available
• The PR eligibility pathways (study/work/direct)
• The updated SOL
• Skill assessment bodies relevant to your field

Your career, finances, and life goals depend on these decisions.

Final Thoughts

If you are planning to study in Australia, it’s a wonderful place, but it’s essential to go in with open eyes. Don’t let the sunshine, beaches, vibrant culture, and fake job promises by agents overshadow the deeper realities of migration, financial pressure, and career planning. If your goal is to build a life in Australia beyond education, you must approach it with a strategic, clear, and thorough research approach.

Let your journey be guided by facts, not half-truths.