Nursing courses in Australia are a smart choice for international students who want to start a career in healthcare. With top-quality education, practical training, and globally valued degrees, these courses prepare you to work as a nurse in Australia or anywhere in the world.
In this blog, we’ll look at why you should study nursing in Australia, the best courses and universities, entry requirements, fees, scholarships, and the career opportunities waiting after graduation.
Table Of Content
1Why Study Nursing in Australia2Best Nursing Courses in Australia3Top 10 Nursing Universities in Australia4Requirements to Study Nursing in Australia for International Students5Fee for Nursing Course in Australia6How to Apply for Nursing Course in Australia7Nursing Scholarships in Australia for International Student8Job Opportunities for Nurses in Australia After Studies9Conclusion10Frequently Asked Questions
Why Study Nursing in Australia
Australia is a top choice for nursing students with its quality education, modern healthcare, and great job prospects. Courses combine theory with real hospital training, and an Australian degree is valued worldwide, giving you the chance to work in Australia or abroad.
1. World-Class Education & Practical Training
Australia’s nursing programs are globally respected and include real hospital experience through clinical placements.
2. Strong Career Opportunities
With high demand for nurses, post-study work rights, and global recognition, you’ll have excellent job and migration options.
3. Safe & Welcoming Environment
Australia offers a safe, diverse, and student-friendly lifestyle, making it a great place to study and grow.
Best Nursing Courses in Australia
Australia offers some of the best nursing courses tailored to suit different career goals. As part of the Australian Education System, students can choose from diplomas to bachelor’s and master’s degrees, gaining strong theoretical knowledge and practical training that prepare them to work in hospitals, clinics, and global healthcare settings.
Bachelor of Nursing (Undergraduate)
- Most popular undergraduate nursing course offering foundational and advanced nursing education.
- Specialisations available in areas like Emergency, Pediatrics, Cardiology, Mental Health, Dementia care, Critical Care, Adult Nursing and Public Health.
- Duration: Typically 3 years full-time.
Master of Nursing (Graduate Entry)
- A bachelor’s degree in nursing or a related field with at least 60% marks.
- Covers physical, biological, psychological, and social sciences with 800–840 hours of clinical practice.
- Duration: Usually 2 years full-time.
Diploma of Nursing
- The Diploma of Nursing prepares you to become an Enrolled Nurse (EN) and work in different healthcare settings.
- You’ll learn key skills like patient care, giving medications, wound care, infection control, and basic clinical practices.
- Duration: 1.5 to 2 years full-time with clinical placements.
Note : International students should note that diploma nursing courses in Australia usually don’t qualify for post-study work visas. To get these benefits, you need to complete a bachelor’s or higher degree.
Top 10 Nursing Universities in Australia
Australia has some of the best Australia nursing university options. These top 10 schools offer great education and hands-on training to build your career.
| University | Global QS Nursing Rank 2025 | Popular Nursing Courses |
|---|---|---|
| University of Sydney | 20 | Bachelor of Nursing (Advanced Studies), Master of Nursing (Graduate Entry) |
| Monash University | 24 | Bachelor of Nursing, Master of Advanced Nursing Practice, Master of Mental Health Nursing |
| University of Melbourne | 25 | Bachelor of Nursing, Master of Nursing, Master of Clinical Nursing |
| University of Queensland | 50 | Bachelor of Nursing, Master of Nursing, Master of Advanced Nursing Practice |
| University of Technology Sydney (UTS) | 51–100 | Bachelor of Nursing, Master of Advanced Nursing Practice, Master of Mental Health Nursing |
| Queensland University of Technology (QUT) | 51–100 | Bachelor of Nursing, Master of Nursing, Master of Mental Health Nursing |
| Deakin University | 101–150 | Bachelor of Nursing, Master of Nursing, Master of Advanced Nursing Practice |
| Griffith University | 101–150 | Bachelor of Nursing, Master of Nursing, Master of Mental Health Nursing |
| University of Adelaide | 101–150 | Bachelor of Nursing, Master of Nursing Practice |
| Australian Catholic University | 151–200 | Bachelor of Nursing, Master of Nursing |
Requirements to Study Nursing in Australia for International Students
If you want to study nursing courses in Australia, you need the right academic background and good English skills. As part of the Australia nursing requirements, universities usually ask for high school or a bachelor’s degree (for postgrad) and test scores like IELTS or PTE. Nursing is also considered one of the most demanding courses in Australia, making strong preparation essential.
Here are the requirements to study nursing in Australia;
For Bachelor of Nursing
- Complete Year 12 (or equivalent) with Biology, Chemistry, or Math.
- Applicants need to submit their transcripts and meet the minimum grades set by the university.
- Meet English requirements.
- IELTS: 7.0
- PTE: 65
- TOEFL iBT: 94
- OET: Grade B in all sections
For Master of Nursing (Graduate Entry)
- Have a bachelor’s degree in nursing, health sciences, or a related field.
- Some universities accept other degrees with subjects like anatomy or physiology.
- Most universities ask for a high GPA to apply.
- Same English test requirements as above.
- Some universities may also ask for nursing experience or registration in your home country.
Documents Required
- Academic transcripts and certificates from previous studies.
- A valid passport that covers your study period.
- English test scores (IELTS, TOEFL, OET, or PTE).
- Offer or acceptance letter from the university.
- A short statement of purpose or personal statement.
- 2 – 3 recommendation letters (academic or professional).
- CV or resume (mainly for postgraduate courses).
- Proof of Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).
- Bank statements or proof of funds for tuition and living costs.
- Immunization records (as required).
- Police clearance and Working with Children Check (for placements).
- Completed university application form.
Fee for Nursing Course in Australia
The fee for studying nursing in Australia ranges between AUD 30,000 and AUD 50,000 per year, depending on the course and university.
Here are the fees for nursing courses in Australia for international students.
| Nursing Program | Average Annual Fee (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Bachelor of Nursing | 28,000 – 40,000 |
| Master of Nursing | 30,000 – 45,000 |
| Doctorate in Nursing (PhD) | 18,000 – 35,000 |
How to Apply for Nursing Course in Australia
Applying for nursing courses in Australia is a straightforward process. To get admission in Australian universities, you need to choose your course and university, check the entry requirements, prepare documents like transcripts and English test scores, and then submit your application online. If you’re a registered nurse in Australia, you can apply for nursing registration in New Zealand.
Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to apply for a nursing course in Australia;
Research & Choose – Explore different universities and see which nursing course matches your career goals. Compare course structure, fees, and location before making a choice.
Check Requirements – Make sure you meet the academic scores and English language tests like IELTS 7.0. Each university may have slightly different criteria, so double-check before applying.
Prepare Documents – Gather all important papers like transcripts, passport, SOP, CV, and English test results. Don’t forget proof of funds and health cover, as they are mandatory for international students.
Apply Online – Submit your application directly on the university’s website or through an authorized agent. Always keep a copy of your application and supporting documents for reference.
Get Offer Letter – If your application is accepted, the university will issue an official offer letter. This letter outlines your course details, fees, and next steps.
Accept & Pay – Accept the offer by signing the agreement and paying the initial tuition deposit. This confirms your spot in the program.
Receive CoE – After payment, the university sends you a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). This document is essential to apply for your student visa.
Apply for Student Visa (Subclass 500) – Use your CoE and submit your visa application online with all required documents. Make sure to include proof of funds and health insurance.
Health & Character Checks – You’ll need to complete medical exams and police clearance as part of the visa process. These checks ensure you meet Australia’s entry requirements.
Prepare for Arrival – Book your flight and arrange student accommodation in advance. Attend the university’s orientation program to settle in smoothly.
Nursing Scholarships in Australia for International Students
Australia offers Scholarships to Study in Australia that help international students cut tuition costs and make nursing programs more affordable.
Here are some Nursing scholarships in Australia:
CDU Bachelor of Nursing Scholarship
Covers up to 20% of tuition fees. No extra application needed; you’re assessed automatically.
CDU Vice-Chancellor’s International High Achievers Scholarship
Covers 50% of tuition fees. You need 95% in your last qualification and a short statement.
NCAP Gateway to Global Nursing Scholarship (IHM)
Helps with tuition and training. Open to nursing graduates or diploma holders with 70% marks and leadership skills.
Swinburne University International Scholarships
Offers 20–30% off tuition fees for UG/PG courses (some nursing courses excluded). Application required.
University of Sydney – Medicine and Health Scholarships
Includes Dialysis Australia Nursing Scholarship ($32,500 a year) and other awards. Requirements vary.
Australian College of Nursing (ACN) Scholarships
Provides grants and scholarships for nursing students at all levels.
Job Opportunities for Nurses in Australia after Graduation
Graduates of nursing courses in Australia have plenty of job options in hospitals, aged care, mental health, and community health. With good pay and flexible roles, it’s a rewarding career after study.
Here are some job roles and career paths you can explore as a nurse in Australia:
1. Registered Nurse (RN) – Provide full nursing care in hospitals, clinics, aged care, and community health.
2. Enrolled Nurse (EN) – Support RNs by giving direct patient care.
3. Clinical Nurse Specialist – Focus on areas like paediatrics, emergency, oncology, or mental health.
4. Nurse Educator/Trainer – Teach nursing in universities and training institutes.
5. Nurse Manager – Lead teams and handle administration in healthcare settings.
6. Remote Area Nurse – Work in rural and remote communities delivering essential care.
7. Midwife – Support mothers and newborns during pregnancy and birth.
8. Community Health Nurse – Provide primary care and health education in the community.
9. Aged Care Nurse – Care for aged patients in residential facilities.
10. Mental Health Nurse – Help patients manage and recover from mental health conditions.
Conclusion
Australia is a great place for international students to study nursing. As one of the most demanding courses in Australia, nursing offers quality education, hands-on training, and plenty of career opportunities. These courses help you gain the skills and confidence to work as a nurse in Australia or anywhere in the world. To explore accredited nursing programs and opportunities, you can visit the official Study Australia website Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia. or check individual university portals for the latest course details, entry requirements, and scholarships.
