Why International Students Should Study in Western Australia in 2026: Universities, Jobs, 485 Visa Benefits and PR Pathways
Choosing the right study destination is one of the most important decisions for international students planning their future in Australia. With rising living costs in major metropolitan cities and increased competition for jobs, Western Australia (WA) has become one of the strongest study choices for 2026.
Perth, the capital of WA, is consistently ranked among the world’s most liveable cities. It offers affordability, safety, high-quality education, strong employability outcomes and clear migration pathways, making it an excellent destination for students seeking both academic and long-term career opportunities.
At Aussizz Group, we support students throughout their journey – from course selection and admissions to GS guidance, student visas, 485 visas and PR planning.
1. Regional Benefits That Provide Strong Visa and PR Advantages
Perth is officially classified as a Category 2 – Regional Area, offering international students several migration advantages not available in Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane.
Eligibility for extended 485 post-study work visas
Priority selection under the WA State Nomination Graduate Stream
Broader occupation lists compared to many states
Less job competition due to a smaller population
2. Top Universities and Institutions in Western Australia (PR-Friendly Options)
Western Australia is home to globally recognised universities, strong VET providers and reputable private institutes offering migration-aligned study pathways.
WA Universities and Colleges – PR-Friendly Courses
Master of Professional Engineering (Civil/Mechanical/Electrical) – Master of Business Analytics – Master of Public Health – Bachelor of Science (Engineering Pathways)
Mining engineering, ICT, public health, construction
Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) – Master of Engineering – Master of Information Technology – Master of Construction Management – Master of Public Health
Certificate III/IV in Commercial Cookery – Certificate III in Carpentry – Certificate III/IV in Electrotechnology – Diploma of Community Services – Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care
Hospitality, cookery, patisserie, community services
Certificate III/IV in Commercial Cookery – Certificate III/IV in Patisserie – Diploma/Advanced Diploma of Hospitality Management – Diploma of Community Services
3. How Choosing the Right Course Supports PR Pathways
Course selection plays a major role in shaping employment and migration outcomes. WA has ongoing shortages across health, engineering, IT, teaching, community services and trades.
4. Affordable, Safe and Student-Friendly Lifestyle in Perth
Perth offers a more relaxed and affordable lifestyle compared to eastern metropolitan cities. Students benefit from lower rent, transport concessions and a safe, multicultural environment.
Cost of Living Comparison
Expense
Perth
Melbourne
Sydney
Rent (shared)
$180–$260/week
$230–$320/week
$260–$380/week
Public Transport
Lower with concessions
Higher
Highest
Daily Living Costs
Affordable
Moderate
High
Job Competition
Lower
High
Very High
Why Students Prefer Perth?
More affordable cost of living
Safer and quieter environment
Student transport concessions
Balanced lifestyle with outdoor spaces
Strong part-time job availability
5. Scholarships in Western Australia
Western Australia offers a wide range of scholarship opportunities that help international students reduce tuition costs and access high-quality education. While criteria and benefits vary each intake, WA institutions consistently provide meaningful financial support across multiple study levels.
Common Scholarship Options in WA
Academic Merit Scholarships: Offered by universities such as UWA, Curtin, Murdoch and ECU for students with strong academic profiles.
International Welcome Awards: Designed to support new international students commencing studies in WA.
Regional Study Bursaries: Encouraging students to study at WA campuses, especially in high-demand fields.
Course-Specific Scholarships: Available for priority areas such as Engineering, IT, Nursing, Teaching, Business and Public Health.
Institutional Bursaries (Private Colleges): Provided by VET and private institutions like TIWA, APSI and Stanley College for trade, cookery, hospitality and community services programs.
Scholarship availability differs with each intake, and applicants are encouraged to apply early. Aussizz Group helps students identify suitable options based on their course preferences and academic background.
6. Thriving Job Market and High Graduate Salaries
WA’s strong economy creates excellent employment opportunities across engineering, healthcare, IT, construction, agriculture and hospitality.
7. WA Migration Pathways: Graduate Stream and PR Opportunities
Western Australia continues to offer one of Australia’s clearest migration pathways for international graduates. The WA State Nomination Graduate Stream helps VET, bachelor, master and PhD graduates access permanent residency opportunities.
Why WA Migration Pathways Stand Out
Transparent occupation lists
Monthly invitation rounds
Preference for WA-trained graduates
Clear, accessible eligibility criteria
Recent invitation data shows strong demand in engineering, IT, nursing, teaching, hospitality, agriculture and community services. Students who want a deeper understanding of WA’s latest nomination performance can review the detailed analysis here:
This provides useful insight into which occupations were invited, how the Graduate Stream performed and what trends international students should consider when planning their long-term migration pathway in Western Australia.
1. Why is WA a good destination for international students?
It offers affordability, strong job demand, high-quality education and reliable PR outcomes.
2. Which courses are best for PR in WA?
Nursing, engineering, IT, teaching, community services, trades and hospitality.
3. Is Perth more affordable than Sydney and Melbourne?
Yes. Perth has noticeably lower rent, transport and daily living costs.
4. Does studying in WA improve PR chances?
Yes. WA prioritises graduates who study and work within the state.
5. How can Aussizz Group assist students?
We support with admissions, GS guidance, OSHC, student visas, 485 visas and PR pathways.
6. Can international students work part-time in Perth?
Yes. Students can work 48 hours per fortnight during study terms and unlimited hours during breaks.
7. Is WA better for PR than other Australian states?
For many students, yes. WA offers broader occupation lists, regular invitations and strong demand for skilled graduates.
Conclusion
Western Australia offers a powerful combination of high-quality education, affordability, job opportunities and clear migration pathways. With regional advantages, strong workforce demand and a welcoming environment, WA stands out as one of the best study destinations for international students in 2026.
At Aussizz Group, we help students make informed, confident decisions about their education and migration future.
AUS
Australia
IND
India
UAE
UAE
CA
Canada
SL
Srilanka
