Australia is a prime destination for international students, but one city stands above the rest as the favourite of students from around the world: Sydney. Although cities such as Melbourne, Brisbane and Adelaide make great destinations, Sydney is still the "Education Capital" of the Southern Hemisphere.
As we move into 2016, the talent race is fiercer than ever, and international students are seeking more than just a good education - they want an experience, a pathway into a career and a chance to connect to the world. Let's look at why Sydney is still the best.
1. The quality of education and rankings
The reason most international students choose to study abroad is for the education. Sydney hosts some of the most respected universities in the world such as the University of Sydney and UNSW Sydney, both of which are ranked in the top 50.
Whereas other cities in Australia might have a niche offering, Sydney universities have it all. With state-of-the-art medical research and leading engineering schools to globally renowned business schools, the quality of education is the best. For students, a Sydney degree on their certificate is highly prized the world over.
2. Australia's Financial Centre
Sydney is Australia's financial capital and economic hub (Melbourne is sometimes called the cultural capital). Sydney is the home of the Australian offices for many of the US's Fortune 500 companies (Google, Amazon, and Microsoft) and the "Big Four" banks.
This means for international students:
- Networking: From industry, functions and seminars to guest lectures, networking opportunities are held every week.
- Internships: Students in the CBD are just minutes away from the nation's top internship providers.
- Part-time Jobs: Sydney's enormous hospitality, retail and corporate industries provide many part-time jobs to supplement living expenses.
3. A Lifestyle Unmatched by Any Capital
Sydney is a "Best of Both Worlds" capital city. Some of the world’s most iconic natural attractions surround a vibrant, fast-paced city centre.
- The Beaches: Bondi, Coogee and other famous beaches are accessible via bus or light rail from most campuses.
- The Weather: Sydney's temperate year-round weather - with more than 300 sunny days a year - is a welcome change from Melbourne's "four seasons in one day" or Brisbane's humid heat.
Culture: Sydney is one of the world's most diverse cities. For an international student, this means that "home away from home" is never too far away, be it through international food, or cultural festivals.
4. Transportation and Connectivity
Sydney's infrastructure is at its peak in 2026. Thanks to the extended Sydney Metro and light rail public transport system, getting from accommodation to university campus is effortless. Additionally, as Australia's largest airport, Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport has the most direct flights to Asia, Europe, and the Americas, making it the best place to be for students looking to fly home during breaks.
5. Post-Graduate Opportunities
Australia's immigration policies prioritise talented international students. Sydney's unique economy offers opportunities for "Professional Year" and post-graduate work visas. Whether you want a couple of years of overseas work experience, or to apply for residency, Sydney's job market offers you a better chance of success than those in smaller cities with a more localised work market.
Conclusion: Plan Your Future Today
Where you study is a life-changing decision. Sydney is a city of opportunity, but the application and visa process can be difficult, particularly with the changes for student visas and English language proficiency in 2016.
If you are considering moving to the most beautiful and exciting city in Australia, do not make the mistake of risking your future. An expert education & migration agent Sydney can make the process of applying to university, applying for scholarships and moving through the visa process a breeze. By seeking advice from experts who know the local market, you can get on with what is important - commencing your journey in beautiful Sydney.
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