Country Guide
High School in Australia
Australia combines English-speaking schools, outdoor lifestyle and long distances from home. Check carefully whether the climate, distance, costs, choice of school and everyday life suit you.
Why Australia?
Australia impresses with its breathtaking nature, relaxed attitude to life and a very good education system. Students benefit from modern schools with innovative teaching and a wide range of subjects - from outdoor education and marine biology to art and IT. Host families are known for their openness and integration of international students.
Programs & school types
Public high schools
You attend a state school and live with a host family. The schools offer clubs, sports and a pleasant learning environment. The programs are cheaper compared to private schools.
Private Schools & Boarding Schools
Private schools offer smaller classes, special focuses (e.g. sports academies or art programs) and often boarding school accommodation. They are more expensive, but allow for more intensive support.
Regional programs
Some states (e.g. Queensland or New South Wales) offer state programs where you can freely choose the region. So you can experience surfing on the Gold Coast or the outback lifestyle inland.
Life in Australia
You either live with a carefully selected host family or in a boarding school. Host families integrate you into their everyday life, show you the surroundings and support you as you start school. Boarding schools offer a structured environment with fixed learning times and leisure activities. In both cases, you will quickly make new friends and improve your English.
School system & qualifications
In Australia, young people visit the High school from years 7 to 12. The lessons are practice-oriented and many teachers are highly qualified. This is at the end of school Certificate of Education, a degree with a score ranging from 0 to 99.95, which forms the basis for the course of study. This certificate is generally recognized in Germany; However, the exact conditions depend on the federal state. In addition to the compulsory subjects of English and mathematics, you can choose from numerous elective subjects - from art to science to business or outdoor education.
Australia places great emphasis on quality assurance: all schools that accept international students must comply with the CRICOS register be registered and comply with the requirements of Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) are equivalent to. These regulations ensure that teaching and supervision meet international standards.
State vs. private schools
Approximately 70% of Australian students attend public high schools, around 30 % go to private schools. Public schools offer a wide range of subjects, modern facilities and numerous sports and arts programs. Fees for international students are lower compared to private and boarding schools. Private schools are characterized by smaller classes, more intensive support and often special focuses (e.g. music, technology or sports academies). They are more expensive, but enable particularly individual support. Boarding schools combine instruction and accommodation on one campus; They offer a structured environment, but also many leisure and sports opportunities.
Requirements & application
For a high school year in Australia you should be between 15 and 18 years old, have a solid knowledge of English and regularly attend school in Germany. Some programs require a minimum grade point average. For your Visa you need a passport and, if necessary, health certificates.
Costs & Financing
Prices depend on school type, state and program length. A public school year usually costs very differently depending on the country, duration, type of school, accommodation and scope of services. Private boarding schools are above that. Additional costs for Visa, flight, insurance and pocket money should be planned for. You can find financing options on our website Scholarship page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an Australian school uniform?
Yes, most Australian schools have uniforms. The costs for this vary depending on the school and should be taken into account in the budget.
Can I choose my subject?
Yes, you can choose from a wide range. Compulsory subjects such as English and math remain, but electives range from marine science to drama.
How long is an Australian school year?
The school year begins at the end of January and ends in December. You can stay for a trimester, semester or a whole year.
Can I travel after the program?
Yes, many students travel with their host family or friends after the program ends. Pay attention to Visa requirements and travel times.
Important criteria for choosing a country
- Country, region, type of school, accommodation and leisure activities have a greater influence on everyday life than individual advertising promises.
- What matters for students is connection, language, subjects and activities; Parents need clarity about care, costs and return.
- A country is a better fit when anticipation and practical conditions work together.
For further planning this fits: Australia or New Zealand, Cost, For parents.
Related Topics
What Makes Sense Now
If you would like to clarify the next steps, we will sort out the countries, duration, budget, accommodation and any outstanding parental questions together.