10 reasons to study English in Australia
Written by Cassandra Charlesworth
1st September 2025
If you’re an overseas student looking to study English, then chances are Australia may be among the countries you’re considering.
After all, its world class education system and friendly reputation has cemented Australia as one of the most popular English study destinations in the world.
But what makes the land down under stand out from the crowd? Here are the top reasons why people choose to study English in Australia…
Renowned education system
As we mentioned, Australia’s education system is considered one of the best in the world, and it continues this tradition with its English language offerings for overseas students.
Known as ELICOS, or English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students, the program includes both long and short language courses that cater to every English speaking ability.
A significant part of Australia’s education sector, these courses are designed to help overseas students improve their English speaking skills for social, professional, and travel reasons.
Language immersion
As an English speaking country, Australia offers the opportunity to immerse yourself in the English language.
Whether it’s shopping at the local supermarket, ordering a coffee or conversing with the native English speakers around you, this immersion fast tracks your English speaking ability.
Travel opportunities
Australia isn’t just a place to study, it’s a country to explore, with stunning visas and natural landscapes that range from the coast to the outback, the snow to the rainforest, and the desert to the tropics.
In fact, many English language courses in Australia are designed to accommodate both education and exploration, allowing students to study short English language courses on a visitor or working holiday visa.
Course choices
Whether you’re looking to learn English in order to embark on further study, are seeking to master your skills prior to an English language exam, or just want to brush up on your English conversational skills, Australia offers the course to suit.
In fact, the ELICOS program caters to a raft of outcomes - from short courses that improve conversational English to year long options that prepare you for university study in English.
You can learn more about the ELICOS course options and their outcomes here.
Further education options
And on that note… Australia’s English language program opens the door for further study in English, with many students going on to complete their university degrees in Australia.
ELICOS courses facilitating this include exam preparation, which helps students ready for recognised English language tests, and English for Academic Purposes, which has a focus on the skills and language involved in higher education.
Different locations
Do you want to experience the vibrancy of Sydney, or would you prefer to study amidst tropical surrounds in a small coastal town in Queensland?
English courses are offered at locations across Australia, including cities, regional townships, tourism hotspots and more.
Student support services
When you study English in Australia, you have a raft of support at your fingertips, ranging from the services offered by your education provider, to national and state student bodies, and Australian law.
In fact, the whole Australian education sector is governed by strict laws, which are designed to ensure you have a positive experience while studying English in Australia.
Diverse culture
While English might be the national language, Australia is a melting pot of different cultures brought together as part of a nation built on immigration.
In addition to Australian culture, you can expect to encounter different traditions, foods and experiences in a nod to this diverse and exciting cultural mix.
Safety and security
With a low crime rate and friendly nature, Australia is regarded as a safe and secure country to study in and travel around. In fact, Australia ranks among the safest countries in the world.
That said, it’s a big country with climate and environmental conditions that overseas students may be unfamiliar with.
Like anywhere, you should be aware of your surroundings, including assessing your personal safety and the environmental risks.
A welcoming study destination
With so many course options, locations and travel destinations, Australia is an ideal place to study English. And for many overseas students that first foray into English language in Australia opens doors to a host of further experiences and opportunities.
Meanwhile, hundreds of thousands of overseas students travel to Australia each year to study English.
As a result, Australia’s ELICOS program boasts a thriving community of international students from all over the world and from all walks of life.
In other words, studying here offers the opportunity to meet new people, enjoy new experiences and share in new adventures, forging friendships and creating unique memories.
If you’re looking to explore the English language course options that are available in Australia, you can use our handy search tool here.