BENEFITS OF STUDYING IN A REGIONAL AREA 

• High quality education

Smaller cities are home to high-quality Australian universities that often excel in specialised areas of study.

Smaller cities also offer study opportunities in and near diverse ecosystems, natural environments and large industries. This allows you to gain expert knowledge in niche study areas.

When you study in a smaller city (or ‘regional’ location), there are often smaller class sizes. This can mean it’s easier to meet new people, access support services and seek extra help with your studies.

• Employment opportunities

Many smaller Australian cities offer great employment opportunities during and after your studies. With lower competition for jobs, compared to big cities, you may find it easier to secure part-time work or internships related to your field of study.

• Opportunities for Migration

Studying in regional Australia can provide many migration opportunities that would not be available if you studied in a major city. Priority visa processing times and access to the Regional Occupational List are among the regional area incentives. As a result, regional students have access to more job opportunities than non-regional students. 

Students studying in regional areas will be given priority during negotiations for region-specific designated area migration agreements (DAMA). International graduates with a bachelor’s degree or higher from a regional campus of a registered institution will be able to stay in Australia for an additional year on a post-study work visa. If you live and study in a regional area, you will receive an extra 5 points on your skilled migration visa application points test if you apply for permanent residency after your studies. 

• Additional Visa Options

Once your studies are finished, there will be more opportunities for sponsorship and PR. Because it is often easier to obtain sponsorship and apply for public relations from a regional area. While job growth and opportunities in major cities are slowing, regional Australia is booming, with a 13% increase in job opportunities across a wide range of industries. Regional Australia has some of the best jobs for international students, including dentistry, engineering, and healthcare. 

• Simpler Path to Permanent Residency 

If you want to stay in Australia permanently after finishing your studies, studying in regional Australia is a great way to get there. This is due to the Australian government’s strong interest in decongesting major cities and encouraging people to relocate to regional areas. The government has devised strategies to attract immigrants to these areas. One of these plans is to study in regional Australia, which adds five (5) points to the Immigrants Point Test. Then, Post-Study Work (PSW) Visas allow you to stay for up to four (4) years after graduation to work. This can help you get a permanent residency visa. 

• Affordable living

Compared to major cities, the cost of living in smaller cities can be more manageable. From accommodation to daily expenses, you may be able to find a smaller city that helps your budget stretch a little further.

• Nature and adventure

When you study in a smaller student city, you often get to immerse yourself in beautiful natural surroundings on campus. You’ll also get to spend your free time on outdoor adventures and discovering beautiful landscapes and native wildlife. Whether you’re drawn to the tropical beaches of Queensland, the serene landscapes of Tasmania or an outback adventure in the Northern Territory, regional Australia offers something for everyone.

• Strong community connections

Living in a smaller city gives you the chance to connect more deeply with the local community. You’ll find many opportunities to get to know people on and off campus by joining clubs, volunteering or simply chatting to the locals at the shops and cafes. These connections can help you feel supported and improve your wellbeing.