If you're planning to study nursing in Australia, this is your ultimate “To-Do List” before applying! ✨ It’s written from real experience and is also helpful for students entering other healthcare programs or university-level studies in Australia.
Essential Checklist for Applying to Nursing in Australia
1. First-Year Tuition Fee (or at least 75%)
Most universities require you to pay the full first-year or first-semester tuition fee before issuing a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), which is needed to apply for a student visa. ✈️
It’s wise to save up at least 75% of the full tuition fee before applying. On average, the tuition for a nursing degree is around 1 million THB per year, depending on the program and university.
2. Financial Statement for Student Visa
Apart from tuition, your visa application requires financial evidence 💰. If you’re applying alone, you should show a bank balance of at least 800,000–1,000,000 THB to prove you can support yourself in Australia.
3. English Proficiency Test
Pathway English programs are not accepted for nursing. You must submit valid English test scores before applying. 📚 Acceptable minimum scores include:
- IELTS ≥ 7.0 in all bands
- PTE ≥ 65 in all bands
- OET ≥ 350
- TOEFL iBT ≥ 94
4. Choose an AHPRA-Accredited Program
Before choosing a course, make sure the program is approved by AHPRA (Australia’s health practitioner regulator).
5. Relevant Experience and Motivation
Some universities require a personal statement explaining why you want to study nursing. You'll also need to write a GTE (Genuine Temporary Entrant) statement for your visa. 📝
6. Health Check Requirements
Health students need to pass specific medical checks, including X-ray, HIV test, Hepatitis B/C, TB, eGFR, and more. 🧪
7. No Criminal Record
Your student visa must include a Police Check. Applicants with a serious criminal history may be refused. 🛑
8. Other Fees and Documents
- Student visa fee: ~720 AUD (+710 AUD if applying from inside Australia)
- Medical check-up: ~15,000–20,000 THB
- Health insurance (OSHC): ~500–800 AUD/year
- Translation and document certification fees
🎓 Final Thoughts
If you've prepared everything on this list, you're ready to start applying for nursing in Australia! ❤️
In the next part, I’ll share specific tips for “Graduate Entry Programs” designed for students who already hold a Bachelor's degree.
If there's a topic you'd like me to cover next, feel free to comment or message me 🌈
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need to take an English test before applying?
Yes, it’s mandatory. Nursing programs do not accept pathway courses—you must provide valid test results when applying.
Can I apply for PR after finishing a nursing course?
Yes. Nursing is still on Australia's skilled occupation list, which makes it possible to apply for PR after graduation.
Can I study nursing without a health background?
Yes, if you apply for a Graduate Entry Program, which is designed for students who already hold a Bachelor's degree in another field.
Which universities are best for nursing in Australia?
Choose an AHPRA-accredited university like Flinders University, Deakin, QUT, or UTS. Accreditation is essential for registration as a nurse.
