Top 10 courses that can lead to Permanent Residency (PR) in Australia for Nepali Students

Studying in Australia is not just about earning a world-class degree – for many Nepali students, it’s also about building a future with permanent residency (PR). Choosing the right course can open career opportunities and boost your chances of getting PR in Australia.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the top 10 PR courses in Australia, explain why they’re in demand, and share insights tailored for Nepali students.

Why Do Courses Matter for PR in Australia?

Australia’s PR system is point-based. When you graduate in a high-demand course, it increases your employability and helps you gain more points for PR applications. Professions on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL) are especially valuable because they reflect what Australia needs the most.

Top 10 PR Courses in Australia

1. Nursing

Nursing is one of the most popular choices for Nepali students. Australia has a consistent demand for registered nurses, and the career pathway is well-defined.

Duration: 3–4 years (Bachelor)
Average Fees: AUD 30,000–40,000 per year
Why it helps: Strong job demand across hospitals and clinics → high PR chances.
Reference: https://www.anmac.org.au/

2. Social Work

If you love helping people, social work is a rewarding profession and is often listed on the Skilled Occupation List.

Duration: 2 years (Master)
Average Fees: AUD 28,000–35,000 per year
Why it helps: Shortage of qualified social workers in Australia.

3. Engineering (Civil, Mechanical, Electrical)

Engineers are highly valued in Australia’s workforce. Civil engineers, in particular, are in high demand due to infrastructure projects.

Duration: 4 years (Bachelor)
Average Fees: AUD 32,000–42,000 per year
Why it helps: Multiple specializations available + strong PR prospects.

4. Information Technology (IT)

Australia’s tech industry is booming, making IT courses attractive for Nepali students.

Duration: 2–4 years
Average Fees: AUD 25,000–38,000 per year
Why it helps: High demand for software engineers, cybersecurity experts, and data analysts.

5. Education & Teaching

Qualified teachers are needed in many Australian states. Early childhood and secondary school teachers are especially sought after.

Duration: 2–4 years
Average Fees: AUD 25,000–35,000 per year
Why it helps: Long-term demand in rural and urban schools.

6. Accounting

Accounting is another course linked with PR pathways, although it is competitive.

Duration: 2–3 years
Average Fees: AUD 28,000–35,000 per year
Why it helps: Still a part of Skilled Occupation List in certain categories.

7. Hospitality & Culinary Arts

With Australia’s tourism sector, skilled chefs and hospitality professionals are needed.

Duration: 1–3 years
Average Fees: AUD 22,000–30,000 per year
Why it helps: Chefs are consistently in demand → PR options available.

8. Agriculture & Horticulture

Australia relies heavily on agriculture, making this a stable career option.

Duration: 2–4 years
Average Fees: AUD 22,000–32,000 per year
Why it helps: Growing demand for skilled professionals in rural areas.

9. Automotive & Trade Courses

Trade jobs such as automotive mechanics, carpentry, and plumbing are on the Skilled Occupation List.

Duration: 1–3 years
Average Fees: AUD 20,000–28,000 per year
Why it helps: High demand in practical, hands-on industries.

10. Medicine & Allied Health

Medicine, physiotherapy, and other allied health fields offer excellent PR opportunities but are competitive and expensive.

Duration: 4–7 years
Average Fees: AUD 40,000–65,000 per year
Why it helps: Healthcare workers are always in shortage → top PR pathway.

Step-by-Step: From Study to PR

Choose a PR-friendly course
Apply for Student Visa (Subclass 500)
Graduate and apply for Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)
Get skills assessment in your profession
Apply for PR through Skilled Migration or State Nomination

FAQs for Nepali Students

1. Which course is best for PR in Australia from Nepal?
Nursing, IT, and Engineering are top choices due to high demand.

2. How much does it cost to study a PR course in Australia?
On average, fees range from AUD 22,000–45,000 per year, depending on the course.

3. Can I get PR in Australia after completing a diploma?
Yes, especially in trade courses like automotive and hospitality.

4. Do I need work experience for PR after study?
In most cases, yes. Work experience adds points to your PR application.

5. Is it hard for Nepali students to get PR in Australia?
Not if you choose the right course and meet all visa requirements.

Final Thoughts

For Nepali students, the dream of studying in Australia and settling there permanently is possible with the right planning. Picking a PR pathway course like nursing, IT, or engineering not only secures your future career but also increases your chances of calling Australia home.

If you’re planning to study in Australia from Nepal, make sure to talk with an access eduaction that understands both Australian immigration rules and the needs of Nepali students.