Australia has one of the highest job placement rates for international students, especially in fields like healthcare, and IT. If you're looking to gain permanent residency while studying, Australia offers several PR-eligible courses.
Here's why PR courses in Australia are an excellent choice for you:
Courses like engineering, IT, and healthcare are on Australia’s Skilled Occupation List, meaning they’re directly linked to pathways for permanent residency.
Australian universities are known for offering high-quality education that’s respected worldwide. The knowledge and skills you’ll gain are invaluable.
The job market in Australia is hungry for skilled professionals. Once you complete your course, you’ll be well-equipped to enter industries that are always looking for fresh talent.
We’ll take you through the best PR courses in Australia, and explain how they can help you build a successful career and secure your spot in the country.
Australia’s booming job market and the need for skilled professionals create great opportunities for international students pursuing PR pathway courses.
1. Engineering Courses for PR in Australia
Why Choose Engineering? Australia needs engineers, especially in civil, mechanical, and electrical fields. Engineers have a direct PR pathway under the General Skilled Migration (GSM) Program. Average salaries start at AUD 75,000 – 120,000 (₹41 – 66 lakhs) per year.
Top Engineering Specializations with PR Eligibility
2. Information Technology (IT) and Computer Science
Why Choose IT? IT and cybersecurity professionals are in high demand in Australia. Offers strong PR pathways through the subclass 189 and 190 visa categories. High salary potential, with entry-level salaries starting from AUD 80,000+ (₹44+ lakhs).
Top IT Specializations with PR Eligibility
Course
Job Roles & PR Prospects
Average Salary (AUD/year)
Cybersecurity
Security analyst, ethical hacker, IT security specialist
Top Australian Universities for IT & Computer Science
Australian National University (ANU) – Offers specialized AI and cybersecurity programs. University of Melbourne – Well-known for its computer science & data analytics courses. University of New South Wales (UNSW) – Strong reputation for IT and innovation. University of Technology Sydney (UTS) – Ranked for cloud computing and software dev.
3. Nursing and Healthcare Courses for PR
Why Choose Healthcare? Healthcare workers are in high demand, especially registered nurses and aged care professionals. Healthcare roles offer fast-track PR options under the Priority Migration Skilled Occupation List (PMSOL). Strong job security, with average salaries between AUD 70,000 – 100,000 (₹38 – 55 lakhs).
Top Healthcare Specializations with PR Eligibility
Course
Job Roles & PR Prospects
Average Salary (AUD/year)
Registered Nursing
Hospital & aged care nurses, critical care nurses
AUD 75,000 – 110,000 (₹41 – 60 lakhs)
Aged Care Nursing
Nursing home care, geriatric nursing
AUD 70,000 – 95,000 (₹38 – 52 lakhs)
Allied Health Sciences
Physiotherapy, occupational therapy, radiology
AUD 80,000 – 115,000 (₹44 – 63 lakhs)
Top Australian Universities for Healthcare
University of Sydney – Offers top-ranked nursing and allied health programs. Deakin University – Strong in aged care and nursing degrees. University of Queensland (UQ) – Ranked high for public health and physiotherapy. Flinders University – Offers PR-eligible nursing and midwifery courses.
High demand for social workers, counselors, and community service professionals. PR eligibility under Australia’s Skilled Occupation List (SOL). Jobs in aged care, child welfare, disability support, and mental health services. Entry-level salaries start at AUD 65,000 – 90,000 (₹35 – 49 lakhs) per year.
Top Social Work Specializations with PR Eligibility
Course
Job Roles & PR Prospects
Average Salary (AUD/year)
Social Work
Family & child welfare, youth social worker
AUD 70,000 – 100,000 (₹38 – 55 lakhs)
Community Services
Aged care, disability support worker
AUD 65,000 – 90,000 (₹35 – 49 lakhs)
Mental Health Counseling
Clinical counselor, addiction counselor
AUD 75,000 – 110,000 (₹41 – 60 lakhs)
Top Australian Universities for Social Work
University of Melbourne – Offers Master of Social Work (PR-eligible). University of Queensland – Specializes in community service and social justice programs. Flinders University – Strong focus on mental health and disability support. Western Sydney University – Affordable and recognized by Australia’s AASW.
5. Education and Teaching
Why Choose Teaching in Australia?
Primary, secondary, and early childhood teachers are in high demand. PR pathways available for qualified teachers in regional areas. High salary potential, with entry-level salaries from AUD 70,000+ (₹38+ lakhs).
Top Teaching Specializations with PR Eligibility
Course
Job Roles & PR Prospects
Average Salary (AUD/year)
Early Childhood Education
Preschool & kindergarten teacher
AUD 70,000 – 95,000 (₹38 – 52 lakhs)
Primary Education
Primary school teacher
AUD 75,000 – 100,000 (₹41 – 55 lakhs)
Secondary Education
High school teacher
AUD 80,000 – 110,000 (₹44 – 60 lakhs)
Top Australian Universities for Teaching
Monash University – Offers Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood & Primary). University of Sydney – Strong focus on STEM and special needs education. Queensland University of Technology (QUT) – Offers PR-eligible teaching degrees. University of Canberra – Provides teacher training for regional PR pathways.
6. Accounting and Finance
Why Choose Accounting and Finance in Australia?
Strong demand for accountants, auditors, and financial analysts. Listed under Australia’s Skilled Occupation List with PR eligibility. Competitive salaries, starting at AUD 65,000 – 120,000 (₹35 – 66 lakhs) per year. Professional certification pathways like CPA Australia, CA ANZ, and ACCA increase job prospects.
Top Accounting & Finance Specializations with PR Eligibility
Course
Job Roles & PR Prospects
Average Salary (AUD/year)
Accounting
Chartered Accountant, Tax Consultant
AUD 70,000 – 110,000 (₹38 – 60 lakhs)
Financial Planning
Investment Analyst, Financial Advisor
AUD 75,000 – 120,000 (₹41 – 66 lakhs)
Auditing & Risk Management
Internal Auditor, Compliance Officer
AUD 80,000 – 115,000 (₹44 – 63 lakhs)
Top Australian Universities for Accounting & Finance
University of Melbourne – CPA & CA-accredited courses. University of Sydney – Offers highly ranked finance and investment degrees. Monash University – Specializes in business analytics and risk management. Queensland University of Technology (QUT) – Strong employer connections for internships and placements.
Technical trades are in high demand, with plumbers, electricians, and mechanics among the most sought-after professionals. Many trade courses qualify for PR pathways under Australia’s Skilled Occupation List. High earning potential, with entry-level salaries starting at AUD 55,000 – 90,000 (₹30 – 50 lakhs) per year. Hands-on training with apprenticeships, vocational placements, and TAFE programs.
Top Trade Courses with PR Eligibility
Course
Job Roles & PR Prospects
Average Salary (AUD/year)
Automotive Mechanic
Vehicle Technician, Diesel Mechanic
AUD 60,000 – 85,000 (₹33 – 47 lakhs)
Plumbing
Licensed Plumber, Pipefitter
AUD 65,000 – 90,000 (₹35 – 50 lakhs)
Carpentry
Joiner, Construction Carpenter
AUD 60,000 – 85,000 (₹33 – 47 lakhs)
Electrician
Commercial & Residential Electrician
AUD 70,000 – 100,000 (₹38 – 55 lakhs)
Top Australian Colleges for Trade & Vocational Courses
TAFE Institutes (Technical and Further Education) – Recognized for industry-ready training. Victoria University Polytechnic – Offers certified trade courses in plumbing, carpentry, and automotive. TAFE Queensland – Provides apprenticeships and PR-eligible vocational programs. RMIT University – Strong focus on electrical, mechanical, and construction trades.
How to Apply for PR After Completing a Course in Australia
1. Choose the Right PR-Eligible Visa
485 Temporary Graduate Visa – Short-term work visa (2-4 years) to gain local experience.
189 Skilled Independent Visa – Direct PR for high-scoring applicants (no sponsorship required).
190 Skilled Nominated Visa – PR with state government nomination.
491 Skilled Work Regional Visa – Requires working in a regional area (PR pathway after 3 years).
2. Complete a PR-Eligible Course
Your degree must be CRICOS-registered and at least 2 years in duration in Australia.
STEM, IT, Healthcare, and Trade courses have better PR prospects.
3. Gain Relevant Work Experience
Work in an occupation listed in Australia’s Skilled Occupation List.
Certain industries (IT, Engineering, Nursing, Accounting) require Skills Assessment.
4. Improve English Proficiency
A higher IELTS/PTE score increases PR points.
Superior English (IELTS 8.0+ or PTE 79+) earns maximum points.
5. Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)
Create an EOI through SkillSelect.
You’ll be ranked based on your PR points.
6. Apply for PR After Receiving an Invitation
Submit documents (degree, work experience, English test scores, financial proof).
PR processing takes 6-12 months depending on the visa category.
PR Points System: How to Improve Your PR Eligibility
Australia follows a points-based system for PR applicants. The higher your score, the better your chances of getting an invitation.
PR Points Breakdown
Criteria
Points
Details
Age (18-44 years)
15-30
Highest points (30) for ages 25-32
Educational Qualification
10-20
A Master’s or PhD gives maximum points
Work Experience (in Australia)
5-20
1+ year = 5 points, 8+ years = 20 points
Work Experience (Outside Australia)
5-15
3+ years = 5 points, 8+ years = 15 points
English Proficiency
10-20
IELTS 7.0+ = 10 points, IELTS 8.0+ = 20 points
State Nomination (190 Visa)
5
Requires state sponsorship
Regional Study or Work (491 Visa)
15
For living/working in designated regional areas
Partner Skills
5-10
If your partner has eligible PR skills
Professional Year Program (PYP)
5
Available for IT, Accounting, Engineering
Ways to Improve PR Eligibility
Aiming for IELTS 8.0+ or PTE 79+ can add 20 points.
Australian work experience in a PR-eligible job increases points.
Getting a 190 or 491 visa adds extra PR points.
Gives 5-15 additional points.
Adds 5 points and boosts employment chances.
Job Opportunities After Completing a PR Course in Australia
If you complete a course that aligns with Australia’s Skilled Occupation List, your chances of getting a job and PR increase significantly.
Industries with High Demand for PR Graduates
Healthcare & Nursing – Aged care, registered nurses, and medical professionals. Engineering – Civil, mechanical, electrical, and structural engineering roles. IT & Cybersecurity – Software development, data science, cybersecurity. Education & Teaching – Primary and secondary school teachers. Accounting & Finance – Accountants, auditors, and financial analysts. Trade Jobs – Electricians, plumbers, carpenters (high demand in regional areas).
Average Salaries for PR-Eligible Careers in Australia
Job Role
Entry-Level Salary (AUD/year)
Experienced Salary (AUD/year)
Registered Nurse
AUD 70,000 – 80,000 (₹38–₹44 lakhs)
AUD 100,000+ (₹55+ lakhs)
Civil Engineer
AUD 75,000 – 85,000 (₹41–₹47 lakhs)
AUD 110,000+ (₹60+ lakhs)
Software Developer
AUD 80,000 – 90,000 (₹44–₹50 lakhs)
AUD 120,000+ (₹66+ lakhs)
Cybersecurity Analyst
AUD 85,000 – 95,000 (₹47–₹52 lakhs)
AUD 130,000+ (₹72+ lakhs)
Primary/Secondary Teacher
AUD 70,000 – 80,000 (₹38–₹44 lakhs)
AUD 95,000+ (₹53+ lakhs)
Accountant
AUD 65,000 – 75,000 (₹35–₹41 lakhs)
AUD 100,000+ (₹55+ lakhs)
Importance of PR Courses in Australia
Completing a PR-eligible course aligns with Australia’s Skilled Occupation List, making it easier to get PR.
PR courses are designed to meet industry demand, giving students a competitive edge.
Many PR courses allow work during studies, helping cover living expenses.
Graduates of PR courses often land high-paying jobs in Australia’s strongest sectors.
How PR Courses Align with Australia’s Skilled Occupation List
Courses in healthcare, IT, engineering, teaching, and trade jobs are directly linked to Australia’s Skilled Occupation List. A SOL-approved course means you can apply for post-study work visas and PR pathways like the 189, 190, or 491 visas.
Benefits of Studying a PR-Eligible Course
PR-focused courses make it easier to stay in Australia permanently.
Graduates have strong job prospects, as employers prefer candidates with local qualifications.
Some states in Australia offer extra PR points for students completing courses in regional areas.
How upGrad Abroad Can Help You Study in Australia
Whether you need help choosing the right university, finding scholarships, or planning your study journey, we guide you through it all.
Explore Australia’s Top Universities
Australia is home to world-class universities with strong global rankings. Here are some top choices for international students:
Not sure which university is right for you? We help you compare options and choose the best fit.
Save Money with Hybrid and Accelerated Courses
Worried about costs? Hybrid and accelerated study options let you start your degree online in India and complete it in Australia. This way, you save on living expenses while still earning an Australian degree.
Scholarships to Lower Your Study Costs
Australia offers plenty of scholarships for international students. We help you find and apply for funding opportunities that match your profile.
Types of Scholarships Available:
Merit-based scholarships for high-achieving students
Need-based financial aid for those requiring assistance
University-funded grants to reduce tuition costs
Our experts will guide you through the scholarship application process so you don’t miss any opportunities.
In-Demand Courses in Australia
Looking for a degree with strong career prospects? These fields are highly popular among students:
What is the best course to get PR in Australia quickly?
Courses in fields like nursing, engineering, IT, and accounting are commonly associated with quicker PR pathways in Australia. These are occupations listed on the Skilled Occupation List, which makes graduates eligible for PR through skilled migration.
Do all PR courses guarantee permanent residency?
No, not all PR courses guarantee permanent residency. While certain courses align with jobs on the Skilled Occupation List, other factors like your visa type, work experience, and points score also play a crucial role in determining your eligibility for PR.
How many points are required to apply for PR after studying in Australia?
To apply for PR in Australia, you need to score at least 65 points under the General Skilled Migration (GSM) program. Points are awarded based on factors such as age, English proficiency, work experience, and education.
Can I apply for PR immediately after graduation?
You can apply for PR after graduation, but you may first need to secure a Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485). This allows you to stay and work in Australia for a period, giving you time to gain work experience and improve your chances of qualifying for PR.
Is work experience mandatory for PR eligibility in Australia?
While work experience can significantly increase your PR points, it is not always mandatory. However, for many Skilled Migration visas, having relevant work experience in your field is beneficial.
How much does it cost to study a PR pathway course in Australia?
The cost varies by course and university. On average, tuition fees for international students range from AUD 20,000 to AUD 40,000 per year (₹11,00,000 – ₹22,00,000), depending on the course and location. Additional costs like living expenses and health insurance should also be considered.
Which universities offer PR-eligible courses with the highest success rate?
Top universities like University of Melbourne, University of Sydney, University of Queensland, and University of Adelaide offer PR-eligible courses with high success rates. It’s important to choose universities that align with the requirements for PR applications.
Are scholarships available for PR-focused courses in Australia?
Yes, many universities and government programs offer scholarships for international students studying in PR-focused fields. Scholarships can help cover tuition and living expenses, but it’s important to check the eligibility criteria for each scholarship.
Can I work while studying a PR-eligible course?
Yes, international students can typically work up to 40 hours per fortnight during the semester while studying a PR-eligible course, and full-time during semester breaks. Work experience in your field can also enhance your PR prospects.
What are the most in-demand jobs in Australia for PR applicants?
Jobs in healthcare (nurses, doctors), engineering (civil, mechanical, electrical), IT (software developers, network engineers), and accounting are in high demand and are often found on the Skilled Occupation List.
Do regional universities provide better PR opportunities?
Yes, studying in regional areas of Australia can increase your chances of PR. Australia offers extra points for international students who study in regional areas, and there are also regional sponsorship visas that enhance PR pathways.
What is the success rate of international students getting PR in Australia?
The success rate varies, but it’s significantly higher for students who graduate in high-demand fields like IT, engineering, and healthcare. Work experience, language skills, and additional qualifications also contribute to your PR chances.
Can I apply for PR if my course is not on the Skilled Occupation List?
If your course isn’t listed on the Skilled Occupation List, it may be harder to apply for PR directly. However, you can still apply for other visa pathways or work experience-based migration options.
How long does the PR application process take after completing a course?
The PR application process typically takes 6 to 12 months. However, it depends on your individual circumstances and the type of visa you are applying for.
What are the visa options if I don’t qualify for PR immediately after graduation?
If you don’t qualify for PR right after graduation, you can apply for a Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485), which allows you to stay and work in Australia for up to 2 years, giving you time to gain work experience and increase your chances of PR eligibility.
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