Teaching is one of the most impactful careers, and Australia is a top destination for international students looking to earn a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed). Whether you’re passionate about early childhood development, primary education, or secondary teaching, Australian universities offer world-class training. But what are the entry requirements for international students in 2025?
This guide covers everything you need to know—from academic prerequisites to visa essentials—so you can apply with confidence.
Why Study Education in Australia as an International Student?
- Globally recognised qualifications
- Extensive classroom-based practicum experience
- Pathways to skilled migration and permanent residency
- Multicultural, safe, and student-friendly environment
1. Academic Qualifications
To enter a Bachelor of Education in Australia, you must have completed the equivalent of Australian Year 12. Acceptable qualifications include:
- High School Certificate or A-Levels
- International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma
- National university entrance exams (e.g., Gaokao, CBSE, STPM, etc.)
- Foundation studies or Diploma pathway programs
Each university may assess academic equivalence differently, so it’s essential to check their international qualifications guide.
📌 Tip: You may need a minimum grade average of 65–75% (or equivalent), depending on the university and specialisation.
2. English Language Proficiency
Because teaching involves strong communication skills, Australian education degrees have stricter English requirements than many other programs.
Standard Accepted Tests and Scores:
| Test | Minimum Score Required |
| IELTS Academic | Overall 7.5 (min 8.0 in Speaking & Listening, 7.0 in Reading & Writing) |
| TOEFL iBT | Overall 106 (min 24 in Listening & Speaking, 27 in Writing, 23 in Reading) |
| PTE Academic | Overall 73 (min 79 in Speaking & Listening, 65 in Reading & Writing) |
These scores meet the Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership (AITSL) standards.
📌 Note: These are non-negotiable requirements for teacher registration in Australia—even if your degree is otherwise accepted. However, some universities may have lower requirements. Contact us for more information
3. Additional Entry Requirements
Some universities ask international students to complete further steps:
- Personal Statement or Statement of Purpose (SOP):
Explains why you want to be a teacher, your experiences, and your career goals. - Interview or Video Submission:
Some institutions assess your spoken English and motivation via interview or video. - Academic Aptitude Test (e.g. CASPer):
A few universities may require a non-cognitive online test to assess suitability for teaching.
Types of Bachelor of Education Degrees Available
| Program | Duration | Specialisation |
| B.Ed. (Early Childhood) | 3–4 years | Ages 0–5 |
| B.Ed. (Primary) | 4 years | Ages 5–12 |
| B.Ed. (Secondary) | 4 years | Subjects like English, Maths, Science, etc. |
Some universities offer dual degrees or combined programs with arts or science.
Practicum and Work Placements
All Bachelor of Education programs include mandatory teaching placements, typically starting in the first or second year. International students must:
- Pass a Working with Children Check or Blue Card (state-specific)
- Complete up to 80+ days of supervised teaching before graduation
These placements give you real-world experience in Australian schools and are essential for teacher registration post-graduation. If you want to find out more information on what these placements entail, contact us!
Visa Requirements for Education Students
To study in Australia, you’ll need a Student Visa (Subclass 500). Basic requirements include:
- Valid Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from your university
- Proof of financial capacity
- Valid Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
- English proficiency results
- Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement
👉 Learn more at the Australian Department of Home Affairs website.
4. Pathways to a Bachelor of Education in Australia for International Students
Why Consider a Pathway Program?
If you don’t meet the academic or English language requirements for direct entry into a Bachelor of Education program, pathway programs offer a structured, supportive route to help you qualify.
Common reasons to take a pathway:
- Your high school grades are not equivalent to Australian Year 12
- Your English proficiency test score is below the minimum required
- You want to adjust to the Australian education system before starting university
🛤️ 1. Foundation Studies (Pre-University Program)
What is it?
A foundation program is a 6–12 month course designed to prepare international students for first-year undergraduate study.
Who is it for?
Students who have finished high school but do not meet direct academic entry for a Bachelor of Education.
What you’ll study:
- Academic English
- Education-related subjects (e.g. communication, humanities)
- Study skills and Australian academic culture
Where it’s offered:
- Griffith College (for Griffith University)
- UOW College (for University of Wollongong)
- UNSW Global, Deakin College, etc. (for other top universities)
📌 After successful completion, you’ll typically get guaranteed entry into the first year of the Bachelor of Education (or equivalent program). Find out more about the correct program for you here
🪜 2. Diploma of Education or Teaching (Pathway Diploma)
What is it?
A 1-year program equivalent to the first year of university. It provides a direct pathway into the second year of a Bachelor of Education (if available).
Who is it for?
Students who want a smoother transition to university, or who didn’t meet the ATAR/academic requirement but are strong in other areas.
Where it’s offered:
- Griffith College – Diploma of Educational Studies
→ Leads to 2nd year of Bachelor of Education at Griffith University
→ Entry: Completion of Year 11 or 12 (or equivalent), lower IELTS (6.0–6.5) - UOW College – Diploma of Arts or Diploma of Social Science
→ Progress to Bachelor of Education (Primary or Early Years)
📌 These are packaged with a university degree, and often come with additional support for international students. See how we can support you
🗣️ 3. English Language Courses (ELICOS)
What is it?
ELICOS stands for English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students. These programs help you reach the required IELTS/TOEFL/PTE scores for teacher education programs.
Who is it for?
Students who meet academic requirements but fall short of the high English standards (e.g., IELTS 7.5 with sub-band minimums).
Where to study:
- University English Centres (e.g. Griffith English Language Institute, UOW College English Centre)
- Private providers (Navitas English, ILSC, etc.)
📌 Many universities offer packaged offers:
ELICOS + Bachelor of Education = One student visa for both programs.
🔁 4. Credit Transfer
What is it?
If you’ve already completed teacher training, education coursework, or a related diploma in your home country, you might be eligible to skip certain subjects or start in Year 2.
Who is it for?
Students with prior tertiary study in early childhood, education studies, psychology, or humanities.
How it works:
- Submit detailed transcripts and subject descriptions
- University evaluates which credits can be transferred
📌 Credit transfer is not guaranteed, especially for practical components (e.g. teaching placements).
✅ Tips When Choosing a Pathway
- Check articulation agreements – Some colleges guarantee entry into specific universities upon completion.
- Ask about packaged offers – It’s easier to apply for a single student visa when ELICOS or a diploma is bundled with the Bachelor’s degree.
- Confirm teacher registration requirements – Some diplomas or general degrees may not meet AITSL standards unless followed by postgraduate study.
🎓 Example: Griffith College Pathway
- Diploma of Educational Studies
- Duration: 2–3 trimesters
- Entry: IELTS 6.0 (no band < 5.5), Year 11/12 equivalent
- Outcome: Enter 2nd year of Griffith University’s B.Ed (Primary or Secondary)
🔗 Griffith College Diploma Info
🎓 Example: UOW College Pathway
- Diploma of Arts (Education Stream)
- Entry: IELTS 6.0, completion of high school
- Leads to: Bachelor of Education (Primary or Early Years) at UOW
Final Tips for International Applicants
- ✔️ Double-check English test requirements—they’re stricter than for other degrees.
- ✔️ Choose a program accredited by AITSL if you plan to teach in Australia long-term.
- ✔️ Prepare a strong personal statement showing your passion and relevant experience.
- ✔️ Apply early for better chances of admission and accommodation.
Conclusion
A Bachelor of Education in Australia opens the door to an exciting teaching career. For international students, meeting the academic and English language requirements is key—but so is showing your genuine passion for education. With the right preparation, you’ll be well on your way to making a difference in classrooms around the world.