Government (public) schools charge annual tuition of AUD 12,000–20,000, while independent (private) schools range from AUD 25,000–45,000. The entry bar is moderate for public schools and higher for independent ones. Class sizes typically hold 25–30 students in public schools compared to 15–25 in independent settings. Academic outcomes are mixed in the public system but consistently strong among independent schools. Boarding is not available at public schools, whereas most independent schools offer it. The international student ratio is low (5–10%) in public schools and medium (15–25%) in independent schools.
UNILINK’s view: If your priority is local integration and you’re budget-conscious, a quality public school in Victoria, New South Wales, or Queensland is an excellent choice. If your focus is university entrance and you prefer boarding, a recognised independent school will give you better odds of a strong ATAR and Group of Eight admission.
Guardianship requirements
Australian law requires that international students under 18 have a lawful guardian appointed before arrival.
You have two options:
- School-arranged homestay plus school-nominated guardian: most public schools and some independent schools provide this
- Parental accompaniment (Subclass 590 visa): one parent travels to Australia on a companion visa, serving as the student’s legal guardian
Subclass 590 companion visa
This visa allows a parent, spouse, or sibling (if 18+) to accompany your student to Australia.
- Holder cannot engage in paid work (though some exemptions exist; applications for study permission can be made separately)
- Multiple entries permitted
- Expires when the student reaches 18 or when their student visa ends
- Financial requirement: you must demonstrate AUD 29,710 for the first year (living expenses for the companion) plus the student’s school fees and return airfare
Application process
Step 1: Choose a year level and term
Australian schools begin in late January / early February and operate on a four-term calendar:
- Term 1: late January to early April
- Term 2: mid-April to late June
- Term 3: mid-July to late September
- Term 4: early October to mid-December
International students typically enrol in Term 1 (optimal for settling in) or occasionally Term 2 or 3. Avoid joining partway through the year if possible.
Step 2: School application
Required materials:
- English and Chinese copies of your child’s most recent three years of school reports
- Reference from their head of year or class teacher
- AEAS (Australian Education Assessment Services) English test — mandatory for many independent schools, recommended for all international candidates
- Your child’s CV (including arts, sports, or academic awards)
- Interview (via Zoom or in person if visiting Australia)
Step 3: Student visa (Subclass 500)
Once a school issues a CoE (Confirmation of Enrolment), you apply for the student visa. You’ll need:
- CoE from the school
- OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover) — mandatory, arranged through an approved provider
- GS statement (explaining your child’s motivation to study in Australia and your family’s ties to their home country)
- Proof of financial capacity (bank statements, sponsor letter if applicable)
- Guardianship documentation (either school homestay arrangement or Subclass 590 approval letter for the accompanying parent)
- Medical examination and police clearance
Step 4: Pre-departure preparation
- Book flights (arrange school pick-up if offered)
- Activate OSHC cover before departure
- School uniform and supplies
- Laptop (most Australian schools now require one)
- Arrange accommodation (school-arranged homestay, boarding house, or rental near school)
2026 budget estimate
- Public school pathway (Sydney or Melbourne): AUD 15,000 (tuition) + AUD 25,000 (living expenses) + AUD 5,000 (school-arranged guardianship costs) = AUD 45,000 per year (approximately RMB 220,000)
- Independent school with boarding (e.g., Scotch College Melbourne, Wesley College, Geelong Grammar): AUD 40–50,000 (tuition) + AUD 25–35,000 (boarding) = AUD 65–85,000 per year (approximately RMB 320,000–420,000)
UNILINK’s secondary school service
- Network: partnerships with over 100 Australian public and independent secondary schools
- AEAS coaching and exam oversight: UNILINK is recognised as a partner of AEAS within China; we offer test preparation and can proctor exams
- Subclass 590 companion visa: full application support via our MARA-registered migration advisers
- Guardianship coordination: we liaise with homestay providers and registered guardianship organisations
- On-arrival support: airport transfer, school uniforms, local bank account setup, public transport cards (Opal in NSW, Myki in Victoria)
No hidden fees — our secondary school service is included at the same standard as our university application service.
Ready to explore Australian secondary schools? Complete our intake form or reach out via WeChat to arrange a consultation. We’ll discuss your child’s academic level, interests, and your family’s priorities, then recommend a shortlist of schools.
Last updated: April 2026