Why Study Abroad After 12th Grade in Regional Australia?
Why Study Abroad After 12th Grade in Regional Australia?
Studying abroad after 12th grade is a big decision and choosing the right place can considerably shape your future. More international students are now picking regional territories of Australia for their affordable lifestyle and top-ranking universities. This trend is ongoing also because regional Australia offers better chances of longer-term immigration opportunities. In fact, you can receive up to 5 extra PR points and up to 4 years of post-study work rights here. Tuition and living costs can also be 20–30% lower in comparison to big cities like Sydney or Melbourne. Keep reading to discover the advantages of studying in regional Australia and make smart decisions about your study plans.
What is Regional Australia?
Regions located outside major capital cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane constitute Regional Australia. These regions are across the country and include cities, towns, and rural areas that are still well-developed and offer modern facilities. The Australian government classifies certain locations as "regional" to promote development and attract students and workers to these areas.
For international students, studying in Australia’s regional territories comes with many advantages. These areas are welcoming, with affordable costs of living, and high-quality education. The government introduces policies to encourage international students to choose regional destinations. This opens up extra chances for work and migration after graduation.
Popular regional cities are Townsville, Cairns, Adelaide, Hobart, Wollongong, Toowoomba, and Ballarat. These cities may not be as large as the main capitals. But they still offer excellent educational institutions, modern infrastructure, and vibrant student life. For instance, James Cook University in Townsville is well-known for its strong programs in marine biology and environmental science. The University of South Australia in Adelaide stands out for health and business courses.
The Australian government’s designation of “regional” is important because it directly affects your study and migration plans. If you study in these areas you will receive extra points when applying for permanent residency (PR). You will be eligible for longer post-study work visas, which means you can stay and work in Australia after completing the degree.
Key Reasons to Study in Regional Australia After 12th Grade
Choosing to study abroad after 12th grade in regional Australia offers many benefits that go beyond just getting a degree. Here are the main reasons why international students choose regional areas:
PR & Post-Study Work Benefits
Extra Points for PR
You can get extra points from the Australian government if you study in regional areas. These points help when you apply for Permanent Residency (PR). The more points you have, the better your chance of getting a visa to stay and work abroad after graduation.
Extended Work Visa Durations
Completing your degree at a regional Australian university may qualify you for a longer post-study work visa. In major cities, it’s usually two years. But in regional areas, it can be up to four or even six years long, depending on the location. You can gain work experience and apply for PR in the long run.
Affordable Living & Education
Lower Cost than Major Cities
Living in Sydney or Melbourne can be expensive. Expenses like rent, transport, and food are usually higher in major cities. In contrast, living in regional cities like Adelaide, Cairns, and Toowoomba is much more budget-friendly. You can enjoy a good standard of living without spending too much money.
Access to Scholarships
Many regional universities offer government-funded scholarships. These scholarships help lower the cost of tuition and everyday expenses. As a regional student, you will have access to a variety of special scholarships. This helps you continue your studies without worrying too much about the financial burden. These include:
⦁ University-Specific Scholarships: Many regional universities offer their own scholarships to international students. They assist with covering various expenses like tuition fees and student accommodation. For example, James Cook University and the University of Tasmania offer such scholarships.
⦁ State Government Funding: Some state governments also offer scholarships and grants specifically for students studying in regional areas. These often reward strong academic performance and can significantly lower the cost of studying abroad.
Quality Education with Global Recognition
Smaller Class Sizes
In regional universities, classes are often smaller. This means getting close attention from teachers. You can easily ask for support and get answers when you need them. It creates a better learning environment.
Industry-Focused Courses
Many courses are designed around the needs of local industries - for example, marine biology in coastal areas or agriculture in farming regions. Gaining hands-on experience through internships and practical training is also an invaluable opportunity.
Vibrant Student Life & Community Support
Friendly Local Communities
People in regional towns a
Top Universities to Study Abroad after 12th in Regional Australia
re warm and welcoming. They welcome international students and make them feel comfortable and included.
Diverse Culture
You’ll meet people from many backgrounds. It is a great chance to expand your horizons as you adjust to life in a truly multicultural community.
Regional universities offer big benefits. You get a quality education, lower living costs, and a relaxed lifestyle. You can also apply for longer post-study work visas. These universities are part of Australia's migration-friendly zones.
Below, you’ll find the top regional universities in 2025, with their popular courses, intake months, and estimated tuition fees. This will help you compare and choose the right one for your study goals.
Charles Darwin University (CDU) – Darwin, NT
⦁ Popular Courses:
⦁ Bachelor of Nursing
⦁ Diploma of Engineering
⦁ Bachelor of Business
⦁ Intakes: February, July
⦁ Tuition Fees: Approximately AUD 26,000–35,000 per year, depending on the course
Deakin University – Geelong & Warrnambool, VIC
⦁ Popular Courses:
⦁ Bachelor of Nursing
⦁ Bachelor of Commerce
⦁ Bachelor of Environmental Science
⦁ Intakes: March, July, November
⦁ Tuition Fees: Approximately AUD 33,500–40,000 per year
Griffith University – Gold Coast, QLD
⦁ Popular Courses:
⦁ Bachelor of Engineering
⦁ Bachelor of Business
⦁ Bachelor of Nursing
⦁ Intakes: February, July, October
⦁ Tuition Fees: Approximately AUD 14,000–65,000 per year, varying by program
James Cook University (JCU) – Townsville & Cairns, QLD
⦁ Popular Courses:
⦁ Bachelor of Science
⦁ Bachelor of Engineering
⦁ Master of Science
⦁ Intakes: February, July
⦁ Tuition Fees:
⦁ Bachelor of Engineering: Approximately AUD 34,000–36,000 per year
⦁ Master of Science: Approximately AUD 36,000–38,000 per year
Southern Cross University (SCU) – Lismore & Coffs Harbour, NSW
⦁ Popular Courses:
⦁ Bachelor of Nursing
⦁ Bachelor of Business
⦁ Bachelor of Education
⦁ Intakes: February, June, October
⦁ Tuition Fees: Approximately AUD 25,000–30,000 per year
University of New England (UNE) – Armidale, NSW
⦁ Popular Courses:
⦁ Bachelor of Arts
⦁ Bachelor of Science
⦁ Bachelor of Education
⦁ Intakes: February, June
⦁ Tuition Fees: Approximately AUD 30,200–33,829 per year
University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ) – Toowoomba, QLD
⦁ Popular Courses:
⦁ Bachelor of Engineering
⦁ Bachelor of Business
⦁ Bachelor of Education
⦁ Intakes: February, July, November
⦁ Tuition Fees: Approximately AUD 3,300–4,130 per course, depending on the area of study
University of the Sunshine Coast (UniSC) – Sunshine Coast & Fraser Coast, QLD
⦁ Popular Courses:
⦁ Bachelor of Animal Ecology
⦁ Bachelor of Business
⦁ Bachelor of Education
⦁ Intakes: February, July, November
⦁ Tuition Fees: Approximately AUD 26,750–29,990 per year
University of Tasmania (UTAS) – Hobart & Launceston, TAS
⦁ Popular Courses:
⦁ Bachelor of Marine and Antarctic Studies
⦁ Bachelor of Nursing
⦁ Bachelor of Business
⦁ Intakes: February, July
⦁ Tuition Fees: Approximately AUD 20,000–35,000 per year
Federation University Australia – Ballarat & Gippsland, VIC
⦁ Popular Courses:
⦁ Master of Science (MS)
⦁ Master of Engineering (MEng)
⦁ Bachelor of Information Technology
⦁ Intakes: February, July
⦁ Tuition Fees:
⦁ MS: Approximately AUD 25,000–39,000 per year
⦁ MEng: Approximately AUD 31,000–43,000 per year
University of Wollongong (UOW) – Wollongong, NSW
⦁ Popular Courses:
⦁ Bachelor of Engineering
⦁ Bachelor of Business
⦁ Bachelor of Information Technology
⦁ Intakes: February, July
⦁ Tuition Fees: Approximately AUD 13,872–17,088 per session, depending on the course
Challenges and How to Overcome Them
Even with challenges, life in regional Australia when you study abroad after 12th grade is rewarding. You get support, learn life skills, and enjoy a peaceful, friendly environment.
⦁ Some regional areas have fewer part-time jobs for students. Start job hunting early. Use university job boards, local Facebook groups, and ask local businesses. Try remote or freelance work online if this suits you.
⦁ Buses or trains may not run often in smaller towns. Live close to your campus. Buy a bicycle or share rides with friends. Many universities also have shuttle bus services for students connecting the campus and surrounding student areas.
⦁ You might feel alone or miss home, especially if it’s your first time abroad. Join student clubs, attend events, and connect with others. Talk to student support services—they're there to help.
⦁ There may be fewer malls, cinemas, or nightlife spots in comparison to big cities like Sydney or Melbourne.
⦁ Explore nature, local events, or plan group outings. Regional areas offer beaches, parks, and fun outdoor activities.
⦁ Some areas may hotter or colder than you're used to. Pack the right clothes and ask locals and other international students for tips. You’ll adjust with time, but planning ahead can make the transition period shorter.
⦁ New food, customs, and language accents can feel strange. Keep an open mind to all these new experiences – soon enough, they will also start feeling like home.
Rounding Up
The decision to study abroad after 12th grade in regional Australia opens the door to extended post-study work rights, affordable living, and access to world-class education. With a lower cost of living, smaller class sizes, and greater chances for permanent residency, regional Australia is an excellent choice for international students. Start exploring your regional study options today—your future in Australia awaits.
