Bachelor of Nursing in Australia | A Comprehensive Guide

Are you an international student who wants to study a bachelor of nursing in Australia but is confused about where to start? 

 

Or searching for the top universities offering bachelor of nursing in Australia and how to apply for them? If so, it means you are looking for the pepper guidance about the course structure and its intricacies. 

 

Well, the good news is that you have come to the right place. You are going to learn all about a bachelor of nursing in Australia in this blog.

 

But before moving ahead, have a look at some statistics:  

The number of registered nurses is expected to increase by 14% over the next five years in Australia, according to some reports. It is estimated that there will be around 123,000 job openings for registered nurses over the next five years

 

So, this is the best time to consider studying it. 

 

Bachelor of Nursing in Australia: General Overview

It is a graduate-level course that offers comprehensive theoretical and practical knowledge on all aspects of nursing, including anatomy and physiology, medical-surgical nursing, and pharmacology. 

The course duration is usually 3 years; however, some universities also offer 4 year bachelor of nursing.   

 

Moreover, students can also do specialization in gerontology, mental health, and paediatric care. 

In order to get admission to this course, students must have completed secondary education in science courses, such as physics, chemistry, biology, and optional mathematics.

 

After completing the bachelor’s degree, students can apply for a nursing licence and work in nursing homes, doctor’s offices, and other public and private healthcare facilities.

 

Bachelor of Nursing: Course Structure

The curriculum consists of a combination of theoretical and practical knowledge. The core subjects in a Bachelor of Nursing programme usually include the following:

 

Core Subjects	Learning Outcomes
Anatomy and Physiology	Understanding of human body and its functions
Pharmacology	The study of medications and their effects on the body.
Nursing Practice	Practical skills required for patient care.
Mental Health Nursing	Focus on mental health issues and psychiatric care.
Community Health	Understanding public health principles and community nursing.
Research Methods	Introduction to research methodologies in healthcare.

 

Why Choose Australia for Bachelor of Nursing?

Here are some of the benefits of choosing Australia as a study destination. 

 

1. Quality Education and Training

Australia has world-class universities that offer comprehensive nursing programmes and equip students with both theoretical knowledge and practical experience. The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Accreditation Council (ANMAC) makes sure that these programmes meet high standards in the healthcare sector.  

 

2. Strong Employment Prospects 

Nurses are in high demand in Australia. In 2023, there were around 427,371 registered nurses and midwives, and this number is growing due to an ageing population and more healthcare services.

 

3. Competitive Salaries

Nurses in Australia earn competitive salaries. For example, public sector nurses and midwives in Victoria saw a 28.4% pay rise over four years. It shows the importance of nurses in the healthcare industry of Australia. 

 

4. Diverse Clinical Opportunities

Australia’s healthcare system offers a wide range of clinical settings, from big city hospitals to rural health services. This variety helps nurses gain diverse skills and experience.

 

5. Career Advancement

There are many opportunities for nurses to advance their careers in Australia. They can specialize in areas like mental health, paediatrics, or critical care. Moreover, students can  also take on advanced roles like nurse practitioners, which come with more responsibilities and independence.

 

6. Supportive Work Environment 

Australia offers and promotes a supportive work environment for nurses. In addition to this, the government is making further efforts to improve the working conditions for nurses. For instance, the Victorian government has introduced over 70 improvements to allowances, penalties, and working conditions, showing a strong commitment to  supporting nurses.

 

List of Top Universities Offering Bachelor’s of Nursing in Australia

Here is a list of top universities that offer bachelor’s of nursing in Australia:

What is the Eligibility Criteria to Apply for Bachelor of Nursing in Australia?

Each university has its own set of requirements and conditions. However, here, I’ve discussed the general admission requirements that you must meet before applying for a bachelor of nursing in Australia: 

 

Academic Requirements

To be eligible for a Bachelor of Nursing degree in Australia, you must have completed secondary education. You must have studied science subjects such as biology and chemistry. However, you may also require prerequisite courses or a foundation year to get admission in certain universities. 

 

English Language Proficiency

You must be proficient in the English language. To demonstrate it, you are usually required to take standardised tests such as IELTS or TOEFL. You must have at least a 7.0 score with no band less than 7.0 in IELTS to get admission into a bachelor of nursing programme in Australia.  

 

Documents Required for Bachelor of Nursing in Australia

Here is the list of documents required for admission into bachelor of nursing in Australia:

• Academic transcripts
• English language test scores
• Personal statement or statement of purpose
• Letters of recommendation
• Resume or CV (if applicable)

 

How to Apply for a Bachelor of Nursing in Australia in 2025?

As I’ve mentioned above, the application process is different for each university. However, almost all universities follow these general steps to enrol international students:

• Step 1: Research and choose universities

• Step 2: Prepare necessary documents

• Step 3: Submit an online application

• Step 4: Write a personal statement

• Step 5: Receive an offer letter

• Step 6: Apply for a student visa

• Step 7: Wait for the visa outcome.

Here is the detailed overview of each step. 

 

Step 1: Research and Choose Universities

Start by researching universities that offer a Bachelor’s of Nursing program. Consider factors like university rankings, course structure, location, and student reviews. Verify whether your chosen university offers the course of your interest. 

 

Important Note:  Be aware of the application deadlines for each university to submit your application on time.

 

Step 2: Prepare Necessary Documents

Once you have selected your institution, the next step is to start preparing for getting admission. For this purpose, gather all the required documents, such as an academic transcript, an English language proficiency test, a valid passport and other identity documents. 

 

Important information: Translate these documents into English and scan all the documents. 

 

Step 3: Submit an Online Application

Visit the official website of the university you are interested in. Create an account and download the application form for your desired course. Complete the online application forms and make sure to provide the complete and accurate information. Then attach scanned copies of all the required documents.

 

Step 4: Write a Personal Statement

This is an important step. Here, you will have to write a personal statement explaining your motivation for studying nursing, any relevant experiences, and your career goals. Highlight any volunteer work, internships, or personal experiences that have influenced your decision.

 

Note:  Proofread your personal statement for clarity and grammar before submitting it.

 

Step 5: Receive an Offer Letter

If you meet the initial requirements, you will receive an offer letter from the university. Accept the offer by following the instructions provided by the university. This may involve signing an acceptance form and paying a deposit. Once you submit the required fee, the university will send you a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE).

 

Step 6: Apply for a Student Visa

After receiving CoE, start applying for the student visa (Subclass 500). For this purpose, visit the official website of the Department of Home Affairs. Create your account and download the Subclass 500 application form. 

 

Fill it out correctly and attach the required documents, such as: 

• Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)
• Proof of financial stability
• Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) insurance.
• GST statement
• Health and character certificates.

 

Step 7: Wait for the Visa Outcome

The processing times vary depending on several factors, including the following:

 

• Completeness of your application.

• Correctness of your application.

• Volume of applications being received.

 

If your application is complete and accurate, your visa will be processed more quickly. If your application is approved, you will receive an email stating your visa conditions and obligations.

 

However, if your application is refused, the Department will notify you of the reasons for refusal and whether you have the right to appeal or not. 

 

Scholarship Options for Studying Bachelor of Nursing in Australia

Australian universities and the government offer multiple scholarship options for international students to get admission for Bachelors in Nursing. Here is a list of some popular scholarships that facilitate students during their studies in Australia. 

 

Scholarship Type	Approx. Value (in AUD)
Western Union Foundation Global Scholarship Program	2,500
Monash International Scholarship For Excellence	10,000
Hani Zeini Scholarship	1,000
VU Alumni Discount	3,820
Griffith Remarkable Scholarship	20,250

 

Note that the figures in this table are merely for informational purposes. Check out the university’s official website for more detailed and thorough information.  

 

In addition to this, international students on a student visa can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods. Moreover, they are allowed to work full time during semester breaks or other holidays. 

 

Career Opportunities After Bachelors of Nursing in Australia

After completing a Bachelor of Nursing, you must register with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) to practice as a registered nurse. 

Moreover, as a nursing graduate, you can work in various healthcare sectors, including hospitals, clinics, aged care facilities, and community health organizations. 

You can also pursue further studies, such as a Master of Nursing or specialised postgraduate courses. 

You can also get permanent residency in Australia via nursing. The country offers visa options for skilled workers, and nursing is often listed on the skilled occupation list (SOL).

 

Final Thoughts

Pursuing a bachelor of nursing in Australia opens doors to many career opportunities for international students. And by now, you have gained insights into how you can enrol in a bachelor of nursing programme at an Australian university. 

So, what are you waiting for? Explore the top universities and consider applying for the most suitable option. However, if you are confused and searching for professional assistance, contact us at The Migration now.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How many years is a Bachelor of Nursing in Australia?

A Bachelor of Nursing in Australia typically takes three years to complete on a full-time basis. Some universities may offer part-time options, which can extend the duration.

 

How much does a Bachelor of Nursing cost in Australia?

The cost of a Bachelor of Nursing in Australia for international students ranges from AUD 20,000 to AUD 40,000 per year. This can vary depending on the university and specific program.

 

What is the PTE score for Bachelor of Nursing in Australia?

For admission into a Bachelor of Nursing program in Australia, the minimum required PTE (Pearson Test of English) score is usually 65 overall, with no individual section score below 65.

 

How much IELTS score is required for Australia for nurses?

To study nursing in Australia, you generally need an IELTS score of 7.0 in each of the four components (listening, reading, writing, and speaking).

 

What are the high-paying jobs after completing nursing in Australia?

The most in-demand and high-paying job profiles that you can apply for after completing a bachelor of nursing in Australia include the following:

 

• Nursing Manager 
• Registered Nurse (Paediatrics) 
• Clinical Manager
• Registered Nurse (Disability and Rehabilitation) 
• Registered Nurse (mental health)

 

Which nursing course is the best in Australia?

The most popular nursing courses in Australia include the following:

• Diploma of Nursing/Certificate IV
• Bachelor of Nursing 
• Master of Nursing 
• Master of Nursing Science 
• Master of Nursing Practice.