Bachelor of Nursing in Australia for International Students 2026
Are you an international student dreaming of becoming a Registered Nurse in one of the world’s most advanced healthcare systems? Pursuing a Bachelor of Nursing in Australia in 2026 remains one of the smartest, most future-proof decisions you can make. Australia’s nursing degree is globally respected, clinically intensive, and opens direct pathways to high-paying jobs and permanent residency.
For Nepalese students in particular, the combination of quality education, post-study work rights, and a clear PR route makes Australia the number-one destination. However, the journey involves complex applications, strict English requirements, competitive scholarships, and student visa rules. This is where partnering with a trusted education consultancy in Nepal like Landmark Education becomes invaluable.
This in-depth 2000-word guide covers every single detail you need to successfully plan your Bachelor of Nursing in Australia for 2026 – from university rankings and exact entry scores to living costs, part-time jobs, salary expectations, and step-by-step application tips.
1. Why Choose a Bachelor of Nursing in Australia in 2026?
Australia’s healthcare system consistently ranks among the top 10 globally (Legatum Prosperity Index 2024–2025). The country faces a projected shortage of over 100,000 nurses by 2030 (Health Workforce Australia), guaranteeing exceptional job security.
Key advantages for international students:
- 3-year duration (shorter than many countries)
- Immediate AHPRA registration eligibility upon graduation
- 2–4 years Post-Study Work Visa (PSWV) after completion
- Clear pathway to Permanent Residency via Skilled Migration (189/190/491 visas)
- Starting salary AUD 75,000–95,000 (2026 estimates)
- Unlimited work rights during scheduled course breaks (and 48 hours/fortnight during semester)
If you are serious about building a long-term career in nursing, few countries match what Australia offers in 2026.
Ready to take the first step? Explore your options to study in Australia with expert guidance.
2. Top 10 Universities for Bachelor of Nursing in Australia (2026 Ranking & Highlights)
Australia is home to some of the world’s best nursing schools, offering strong clinical placements, advanced simulation labs, and globally recognised qualifications. Here are the top 10 universities ranked for 2026, along with fees, strengths, and locations.
1. University of Sydney
- QS Global Nursing Rank: Top 20
- Annual Fee: AUD 42,000–46,000
- Key Strengths: Royal Prince Alfred, Westmead, Chris O’Brien Lifehouse
- Location: Sydney
2. Monash University
- QS Global Nursing Rank: Top 25
- Annual Fee: AUD 39,000–44,000
- Key Strengths: Alfred Health, Monash Medical Centre, cutting-edge sim labs
- Location: Melbourne
3. University of Technology Sydney (UTS)
- QS Global Nursing Rank: Top 20
- Annual Fee: AUD 40,000–45,000
- Key Strengths: Royal North Shore, St Vincent’s, high-tech simulation facilities
- Location: Sydney
4. Queensland University of Technology (QUT)
- QS Global Nursing Rank: Top 40
- Annual Fee: AUD 38,000–42,000
- Key Strengths: Royal Brisbane & Women’s Hospital, Princess Alexandra Hospital
- Location: Brisbane
5. Griffith University
- QS Global Nursing Rank: Top 100
- Annual Fee: AUD 36,000–40,000
- Key Strengths: Gold Coast University Hospital, strong mental health focus
- Location: Gold Coast
6. University of Adelaide
- QS Global Nursing Rank: Top 100
- Annual Fee: AUD 39,000–43,000
- Key Strengths: Royal Adelaide Hospital, rural & Indigenous health expertise
- Location: Adelaide
7. Western Sydney University
- QS Global Nursing Rank: Top 50
- Annual Fee: AUD 35,000–39,000
- Key Strengths: Blacktown, Liverpool, Nepean – multicultural clinical exposure
- Location: Sydney
8. Deakin University
- QS Global Nursing Rank: Top 50
- Annual Fee: AUD 38,000–42,000
- Key Strengths: Geelong & Warrnambool clinical partners, strong regional campuses
- Location: Melbourne/Geelong
9. University of Newcastle
- QS Global Nursing Rank: Top 50
- Annual Fee: AUD 36,000–40,000
- Key Strengths: John Hunter Hospital, excellent student satisfaction
- Location: Newcastle
10. Australian Catholic University (ACU)
- QS Global Nursing Rank: Top 50
- Annual Fee: AUD 34,000–38,000
- Key Strengths: St Vincent’s, Mater Health, caring and values-based training
- Location: Multiple cities
A professional consultancy in Nepal can match your GPA, budget, and city preference to the perfect university.
3. Detailed Entry Requirements for International Students (2026)
Academic Requirements
- Nepal Higher Secondary Education Board (HSEB) / +2 with minimum 60–75% (university-dependent)
- Most universities convert percentage to ATAR equivalent (65–85 ATAR)
- Subjects: English compulsory; Biology/Chemistry highly preferred (some universities waive science prerequisites via bridging programs)
English Language Proficiency (No change expected in 2026)
| Test | Overall | Listening | Reading | Writing | Speaking |
| IELTS | 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 |
| PTE Academic | 65 | 65 | 65 | 65 | 65 |
Note: PTE/IELTS score requirements completely depend on the universities.
Additional Mandatory Requirements
- National Police Clearance (Nepal Police)
- Working with Children Check (once in Australia)
- Immunisation & health checks (Hep B, MMR, Varicella, dTpa, COVID-19)
- Some universities conduct online or in-person interviews
An experienced education consultancy in Nepal handles document attestation, equivalence certificates, and ensures 100% compliance.
4. Complete Cost Breakdown (2026 Estimates)
| Expense Item | Annual Cost (AUD) | 3-Year Total (AUD) |
| Tuition Fees | 33,000 – 50,000 | 99,000 – 150,000 |
| Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) | 700 – 1,200 | 2,100 – 3,600 |
| Living Expenses (shared accommodation, food, transport) | 21,790 – 28,000 | 65,370 – 84,000 |
| Textbooks & Uniforms | 1,000 – 1,500 | 3,000 – 4,500 |
| Total Estimated Cost | 56,490 – 79,000 | 167,000 – 242,100 |
Part-time work (nursing assistant, aged care, hospitality) can help you earn AUD 1,500–2,500 per month.
5. Scholarships & Funding Options (2026)
| Scholarship Name | Value (per year) | Eligibility Highlights |
| Australia Awards Scholarship | Full tuition + living + travel | Developing countries (Nepal eligible) |
| Destination Australia | AUD 15,000 | Regional campuses (e.g., Griffith, Deakin) |
| University of Sydney International | Up to AUD 20,000 | High academic achievement |
| Monash International Merit | AUD 10,000 | GPA 70%+ |
| Griffith Remarkable Scholarship | 50% tuition waiver | Very competitive |
| Endeavour Postgraduate Scholarship | Up to AUD 15,000 | Merit-based |
Tip: Apply for scholarships 12–15 months in advance. A good education consultancy in Nepal tracks opening dates and prepares winning applications.
6. Intakes & Application Timeline for 2026
| Intake | Application Opens | Application Deadline | Classes Start |
| February 2026 (Semester 1) | January–March 2025 | September–November 2025 | Feb/March 2026 |
| July 2026 (Semester 2) | August–October 2025 | April–May 2026 | July 2026 |
February intake is highly recommended – more seats, more scholarships, and better clinical placement options.
7. Part-Time Work Opportunities for Nursing Students
From 2023 onwards, international students enjoy:
- 48 hours per fortnight during semester
- Unlimited hours during official semester breaks
Popular jobs:
- Aged Care Worker (Personal Care Assistant) – AUD 27–35/hour
- Disability Support Worker – AUD 30–40/hour
- Hospitality – AUD 25–32/hour
Many students recover 30–50% of living costs through part-time work.
8. Career Outcomes & Salary Progression (2026–2030)
| Year of Experience | Role | Average Salary (AUD) |
| 0–1 year | New Graduate Registered Nurse | 75,000 – 95,000 |
| 2–5 years | Clinical Nurse | 95,000 – 115,000 |
| 5–10 years | Clinical Nurse Specialist | 115,000 – 140,000 |
| 10+ years | Nurse Unit Manager / Educator | 140,000 – 180,000 |
Additional benefits: penalty rates (weekends, nights), superannuation (11.5% in 2026), full PR eligibility after 2–3 years of work.
9. Why Nepalese Students Need a Trusted Education Consultancy
The entire process – GTE statement, document attestation, financial proof, visa lodgement, is complex and rejection rates are high without proper guidance.
Landmark Education (Nepal’s leading consultancy) offers:
- Landmark Education (Nepal’s leading consultancy) offers:
- Free profile evaluation
- University & course shortlisting
- IELTS/PTE coaching partnerships
- 100% scholarship application support
- Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) writing
- Visa lodgement & interview preparation
- Pre-departure & accommodation assistance
Hundreds of Nepalese students have successfully started their Bachelor of Nursing in Australia through Landmark every year.
FAQs – Bachelor of Nursing in Australia
Q1: What is the minimum IELTS score for studying Bachelor of Nursing in Australia?
Most universities require an overall IELTS score of 6.5 for Bachelor of Nursing programs, with no individual band below 6.0.
These scores ensure that international students can understand lectures, participate in clinical sessions, and complete assignments effectively. Requirements may vary depending on the university, program competitiveness, and whether the student applies through a direct or pathway program.
Checking the specific university’s department-level requirements always provides the most accurate information.
Q2: How long does it take to complete a Bachelor of Nursing in Australia?
Typically, the program takes 3 years of full-time study to complete.
The duration may slightly vary depending on the university and whether you take accelerated or part-time options. The curriculum combines theory, practical labs, and clinical placements, which together form the three-year program.
Always confirm the program length with the university before applying.
Q3: Can international students work while studying nursing in Australia?
Yes, international students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during the academic session and full-time during semester breaks.
Working part-time helps students gain experience, manage living costs, and adapt to Australian life. Certain restrictions apply depending on visa type and university guidelines.
Consult your university’s student services for precise work eligibility information.
Q4: Do I need science subjects to study Bachelor of Nursing in Australia?
Not all universities require prior science subjects, but English and one science subject (like Biology) are preferred.
Some institutions accept students without a science background, while others may have prerequisites for biology or chemistry. It’s important to check individual university entry requirements before applying.
Department-level advice provides the clearest guidance on prerequisite subjects.
Q5: What career opportunities are available after completing a Bachelor of Nursing in Australia?
Graduates can work as Registered Nurses, Clinical Nurses, Mental Health Nurses, Aged Care Nurses, or Community Health Nurses in Australia and internationally.
Postgraduate specialization and registration with AHPRA open additional career pathways in ICU, Paediatrics, Emergency Care, or Nurse Education. Job prospects are strong due to Australia’s growing demand for healthcare professionals.
Exploring department-level career guidance helps students understand the full range of employment opportunities.
Final Words – Start Your Journey Today!
Enrolling in a Bachelor of Nursing in Australia in 2026 is not just about earning a degree – it’s about securing a respected profession, financial independence, and a clear route to permanent residency in one of the world’s best countries to live in.
Don’t leave your future to chance. Partner with Landmark Education, Nepal’s most trusted education consultancy in Nepal, and get personalised support at every step.
Apply now, secure your seat, and begin your life-changing journey to study in Australia with complete confidence!
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