The year 2025 has proven to be one of the most generous and welcoming years for Nepalese students aspiring to study in Australia. With improved visa approval rates, streamlined Genuine Student (GS) policies, and flexible financial and academic requirements, more students from Nepal are successfully turning their Australian study dreams into reality.
Several factors make Australia particularly appealing to Nepalese students:
- Wide range of courses – From business, IT, and engineering to hospitality, tourism, and healthcare.
- Affordable and flexible study options – Public universities, private higher education colleges, and VET institutions offer options for every budget.
- Work opportunities during study – Students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight and gain real-world experience.
- Post-study work and PR pathways – Regional universities and VET courses provide points toward permanent residency.
- Supportive visa environment in 2025 – This year has seen higher visa approval rates, easier financial documentation, and more flexible policies for dependents.
With these benefits, Nepalese students are increasingly exploring a mix of prestigious universities, regional institutions, and vocational pathways to achieve both academic and career goals.
The Group of Eight (Go8) – Australia’s Most Prestigious Universities
For students who aim for academic excellence and global career prospects, the Group of Eight (Go8) universities are the most sought-after choices. These institutions consistently rank among the world’s top universities and are known for their strong research focus and employability outcomes.
- The University of Melbourne
- The University of Sydney
- The University of Queensland (UQ)
- The Australian National University (ANU)
- Monash University
- The University of New South Wales (UNSW Sydney)
- The University of Adelaide
- The University of Western Australia (UWA)
Ideal for: academically strong students seeking high-end research opportunities, international recognition, and pathways to global careers.
Top Public Universities for Nepalese Students in 2025
Many Nepalese students in 2025 are choosing public universities that offer affordable tuition fees, strong student support, and regional benefits. Studying at these universities also provides excellent opportunities for post-study work visas and PR pathways.
- Victoria University (VU)
- University of Canberra (UC)
- Charles Darwin University (CDU)
- University of the Sunshine Coast (UniSC)
- University of Newcastle (UON)
- Southern Cross University (SCU)
- Charles Sturt University (CSU)
- James Cook University (JCU)
- Central Queensland University (CQU)
- University of Tasmania (UTAS)
Tip: Choosing a regional university not only gives you a relaxed lifestyle but also helps increase your PR eligibility through extra migration points.
Popular Higher Education Colleges in Australia
Apart from universities, private higher education institutions are becoming increasingly popular among Nepalese students. These colleges provide specialized programs, small class sizes, and career-focused courses at an affordable cost.
Some of the top higher education providers for Nepalese students in 2025 include:
- Kaplan Business School (KBS)
- Engineering Institute of Technology (EIT)
- ACAP University College
- National Academy of Professional Studies (NAPS)
- Excelsia University College
- TAFE NSW
- Melbourne Polytechnic
- Melbourne Institute of Technology (MIT)
- Sydney Metropolitan College
- Stanley College
- Le Cordon Bleu Australia – Globally renowned for hospitality and culinary arts.
- Kent Institute Australia
These institutions focus on hands-on learning, industry placements, and pathway programs leading to higher qualifications.
VET Colleges – Affordable Pathways with Job-Ready Skills
VET (Vocational Education and Training) colleges have become a major attraction for Nepalese students in 2025. These colleges offer Diploma and Advanced Diploma courses that are practical, affordable, and career-driven.
VET programs are especially popular because they:
- Help students gain work-ready skills in areas like business, IT, hospitality, and engineering.
- Serve as pathways to university degrees.
- Have lower tuition fees compared to universities.
- Provide options to study in regional areas for PR benefits.
Popular VET sectors for Nepalese students: Community Services, Early Childhood Education, Cookery, Hospitality Management, Information Technology, and Leadership & Management.
Scholarships for Nepalese Students
Scholarships are one of the most important factors for Nepalese students considering studying in Australia. Many universities and colleges offer generous internal scholarships, while external scholarships are also available to help students reduce tuition costs.
1. University and College Scholarships
Most Australian universities and private colleges provide scholarships specifically for international students:
- Merit-based scholarships – Based on academic performance and achievements.
- Course-specific scholarships – Offered for programs like business, IT, engineering, or hospitality.
- Regional scholarships – Incentives for students choosing regional campuses to encourage settlement outside major cities.
- Early application scholarships – Benefits for students who apply and accept offers early.
2. External Scholarships for International Students
In addition to university-provided scholarships, students can also apply for external scholarships:
- Australia Awards Scholarships – Government-funded scholarships for Nepalese students pursuing higher education.
- Destination Australia Scholarship – Supports study in regional institutions with up to AUD 15,000 per year.
- Research Training Program (RTP) – For students pursuing research-based Master’s and PhD programs.
Tip: Always check eligibility criteria carefully and apply early to maximize chances of receiving scholarship support
