However, the proposal, which still needs parliamentary approval, is unlikely to have a significant impact on students from African countries planning to study in Australia.

The National Planning Level (NPL) for 2025, which includes the limit on the number of international student enrolments, aims to reduce overall migration to pre-pandemic levels.

Australian Minister for Education Jason Clare said the reforms will result in universities having 15% more international student enrolments than before the Covid-19 pandemic while “private vocational providers will be about 20% less”.

Publicly funded universities will take in about 145,000 new international students next year, which is consistent with 2023 levels, with another 95,000 allotted for vocational education and training (VET) courses.

During a press conference on 27 August, Clare said that the big winners were regional universities which could enrol more international students next year than last year. 

Despite these changes, Australia remains an attractive option for students from Africa.

The country has 43 universities and a reputation for ​​academic excellence. Most of its institutions are public universities offering a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate and research programs.

Students from African countries are increasingly opting to study abroad to obtain access to a wide range of courses, gain an internationally recognised qualification and build a global network.

Students need to apply for a Student visa (subclass 500) to study in Australia. During your studies, you can also work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours over the holidays.

Once you have graduated, Australia provides a Temporary Graduate visa that permits students to stay in the country for two years (or three years for PhD graduates).

If you study in a designated regional area, you can extend your stay by an extra one to two years. Additionally, Australia offers both employer-sponsored visas and skilled migration pathways that can lead to permanent residency and citizenship.

If you are considering studying in Australia, get in touch with Sable International’s experienced Study Abroad consultants who are happy to help you navigate the complex world of international education. Speak to them on +27 (0) 21 657 1543 or email study@sableinternational.com

Visit the Study Abroad Expo in Pretoria, Joburg, Durban or Stellenbosch from 2-5 September.  Meet universities, explore your options – for undergrad and postgrad – and receive real-time, expert advice.

Many European universities are ranked as among the best in the world, yet tuition fees are lower when compared to North America and Australia.

Studying in Ireland 

Even though South Africans now require a visa to study in Ireland, we expect Ireland to remain a popular choice for South African students. English is widely spoken in Ireland and courses at universities are conducted in English making it easy for South African students to adapt.

In 2022/23, there were 35,140 international students enrolled in Irish universities. Popular courses are computer science, engineering, business administration, finance, health and medicine. 

See also: South African students now need visa to study in Ireland

Cost

Tuition costs vary depending on the institution, course and level of study. The annual average cost of undergraduate courses ranges from €18,000 – €30,000 at public universities, €12,000 – €14,000 at private colleges and from €10,000 – €12,500 at Institutes of Technology. 

Cost of living

Between €1,240 – €2,303 a month for rent, food and other living expenses, depending on where you live and how much you spend. Cities like Dublin can be more expensive.

Work while studying

Students enrolled in a full-time course and with an Irish Residence Permit card can work up to 20 hours per week. During the summer and winter college holidays, this goes up to 40 hours.

Stay-back options

The Third Level Graduate Scheme allows international students to stay in Ireland after completing their degree for up to two years to find a job.  

Studying in The Netherlands 

Studying in the Netherlands is affordable for international students and offers a wide range of degrees taught in English. 

There were 122,287 international degree students studying at state-funded institutions of higher education in the country in the academic year 2022/23 representing 15% of the total student population. 

Cost

Universities are divided into research universities and universities of applied sciences. The latter is more affordable for international students. The average tuition fee for bachelor’s programmes is between €9,000 – €20,000 per year, and for a master’s programme between €12,000 – €30,000.

Cost of living

This can vary depending on the city and your lifestyle but on average, you will need around €800 – €1,200 per month for accommodation, food, transport and personal expenses.

Work while studying

Non-EU/EEA students can work up to 16 hours per week during the academic year or full-time during the summer months (June, July and August). A work permit is required which must be obtained from your employer.  

Stay-back options

Once you have graduated, you can apply for a post-study work visa, also known as an Orientation Year residence permit, which lasts one year. It allows international students to find jobs in the Netherlands or start a business. Once you have found a job, you can apply for a residence permit that enables you to work and can lead to permanent residency. If you secure an in-demand job that meets the EU Blue Card requirements you will be able to live and work in the Netherlands.

Studying in Germany

Germany is home to some of the world’s top-ranked universities, with a strong focus on research and innovation. 

Many German universities offer programmes in English. Courses in engineering, business, computer science and medicine are top choices for international students in Germany.

The number of international students in Germany was 458,210 students as of the 2022/2023 academic year.

Cost

Private universities charge an average of €10,000 – €15,000 per year. Most public universities in Germany are financed by the state and free for international students who only pay annual fees of around €200 – €700. 

Cost of living

Between €800 – €1,200 a month for accommodation, food, transport and other personal costs. This can vary depending on where you live but is lower than in many European countries.

Work while studying

Non-EU students can work for 120 full days or 240 half days per year without a separate work permit. During semester breaks you can work full-time.

Stay-back options

Once you have graduated from a German university, you can apply for an 18-month residence permit while you look for work. Once you secure a job you can apply for a German Work visa or an EU Blue Card which can lead to permanent residency.

Studying in Spain

Spanish universities offer a wide variety of courses in English, from business, humanities and the arts to science and engineering. 

Spain offers more affordable tuition fees, especially in public universities compared to other Western European and North American countries. There were 224,080 international students enrolled in Spanish universities in the 2021/22 academic year.

Cost

Tuition fees for bachelor’s programmes range from €750 – €2,500 per year and for master’s programmes between €1,000 – €3,500 per year. Private universities are more expensive, as are some specialised programmes. 

Cost of living

Ranges from €700 – €1,300 per month which includes accommodation, food transportation, health insurance, study materials and personal expenses.

Work while studying

International students can work up to 20 hours per week and full-time during the holidays until their student visa expires. You will need a work permit, which your employer will need to apply for.

Stay-back options

Once you have graduated, you can apply for a one-year job search visa to look for employment. If you receive a job offer, you can apply for a High-Skilled Professional Visa. Other options are the EU Blue Card which allows you to move between different EU countries, or a Freelance Work or Self-Employment Visa. After staying in Spain for at least five years, you may be eligible for a permanent residency.

Studying in France 

France doesn’t have English universities, but many institutions offer programmes taught in English.

The number of international students studying in France exceeded 412,000 in the 2022/23 academic year. 

Public universities are subsidised by the French government, making studies more affordable.

Cost

Tuition for non-EU students is €2,850 per year at the bachelor level and €3,879 per year at the master level. At private universities, tuition ranges from €3,000 – €20,000 for bachelor’s programmes and €1,500 – €35,000 for a master’s programme depending on the institution and course.

Cost of living

Ranges from €650 – €1,400 to cover food, transport and housing expenses. This can vary. If you live in Paris, monthly living expenses are likely to range from €1,200 – €1,800 per month. 

Work while studying

Students can work up to 964 hours per year which is around 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during the holiday if you have a valid student residence permit.

Stay-back options

After completing their studies, students can apply for a Temporary Residence Permit which allows you to stay for 12 months to look for a job or start a business. If you do start working or start a business during this time, you can apply for a work permit or entrepreneur visa which can provide a pathway to staying in France long-term. If you secure an in-demand job you can apply for an EU Blue Card which can lead to permanent residency.

Studying in Hungary

Hungary’s significantly lower tuition fees and living expenses make it appealing for international students. The country attracts around 30,000 international students a year. 

Hungary has become a popular destination for medical students and offers internationally recognised English-taught medical programmes.  

Cost

Most courses vary from €2,500 – €5,000 per year. Studying medicine, dentistry or engineering can range from €16, 500 – €19,200. 

Cost of living

Ranges from €500 – €700 which includes accommodation, transportation, food and personal expenses.

Work while studying

Students holding a residence permit for studies can work for a maximum of 24 hours per week and full-time during the holidays.

Stay-back options

After graduating, you can apply for a study-to-work permit which is valid for nine months while you are looking for work. This can be changed into a residence permit after you have found a job. For those who secure an in-demand job, you can apply for an EU Blue Card which can lead to permanent residency.

If you are keen to study in Europe then Sable International’s study abroad consultants will be happy to chat to you about your options. We have 65 European partners and our study advisers are qualified to help you with applying to various programmes and will assist you along the journey.

For more information about where to study in Europe get in touch with us at study@sableinternational.com or call us on +27 21 657 1543

It’s a situation tailor-made for those sitting on the fence about leaving the country to strongly reevaluate their stance. That’s where a new emigration report called Dream Destinations and Mobility Trends, by The Stepstone Group, Boston Consulting Group, and Network comes into play …

SOUTH AFRICANS ARE CONSIDERING EMIGRATING IN 2024

The survey, which drew input locally from CareerJunction, polled 150 000 people from 188 countries, with 7 000 South African respondents taking part. So, if you think you may fall into that group, here are some of the top takeaways from the report …

• 80% of South African respondents said they were considering emigrating in 2024.
• Many South Africans are considering emigrating in 2024, but only with a concrete job offer in hand.
• 59% surveyed say improved financial prospects are the most important reason to relocate.
• Second highest to consider emigrating is career advancement.
• Third priority is a better quality of life.

WORK, MONEY AND BETTER LIFE QUALITY

As CareerJunction explains, “Individuals from Europe, Central Asia and North America don’t necessarily consider moving abroad as potential career enhancement. However, individuals from Sub-Saharan Africa, seem to believe that moving and working abroad can benefit their career.”

However, South Africans specifically only rank career advancement at number seven as a reason to consider emigrating. A concrete employment opportunity is number one for Saffas, second is money and education third in main big drivers for South Africans to move overseas. Interestingly, people from Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia show the highest willingness to move and work abroad anywhere in the world.

HAVE YOUR SAY

What do you think about the rationale behind why South Africans are considering emigrating in 2024? Be sure to share your thoughts with our audience in the comments section below. And don’t forget to follow us @TheSANews on X and The South African on Facebook for the latest updates. Click the links below to check out trending stories in the last 24 hours on our website …

• A popular Johannesburg hiking trail has been closed
• South Africa gets an additional public holiday in June 2024
• WHY 2024 SASSA grant beneficiaries turned their backs on ANC
• The TEN most beautiful countries in the world ranked in 2024
• LATEST update: June 2024 SASSA Old-age pension grants

The UK offers shorter, yet more intensive academic programmes compared to many other study abroad destinations. You can achieve an undergraduate degree, including honours, within three years, while master’s programmes typically last a single year. This allows you to save both time and money. As everyone knows, international student fees per year are no joke. You’ll pay for fewer years in Pounds and return home (to the sweet embrace of a Rand-denominated grocery list) more quickly.

2. Familiar language and culture

Coming as a surprise to no one, English is the primary language of the UK. The Brits, in particular, also enjoy a similar culture to South Africans with a love of sport and the braai (if barbeque even counts as a braai). Whether you study in England, Scotland or Wales, you’ll feel right at home while also having the opportunity to experience a rich history and melting pot of cultures. 

3. Cheap and easy travel to Europe

While the UK is no longer part of the EU, Europe is just a hop, skip or jump “across the pond”. You will be able to pop over to Ireland for a weekend or do a tour of Russia on your summer break (both of these countries offer visa-free entry for South Africans).  

4. A premium quality of education 

Universities in the UK are governed by strict regulations, which means that a degree from any UK university is recognised and valued by employers. According to the UK government, most UK universities have an over 87% employment rate post graduation.

5. Great research opportunities 

According to The Times Higher Education, the UK’s academic research output is 3.6 times higher than the global average. Postgraduate studies in the UK offers you the opportunity to collaborate with leading experts at premier institutions. These institutions have an impressive track record, including the production of 15.2% of the world’s most-cited research articles.

6. Immigration opportunities

Once you have completed your studies, the UK offers a Graduate visa, which can provide a stepping stone to immigration. 

While the UK Graduate visa is only valid for two years (or three for doctoral graduates), it allows you to remain in the UK while you seek employment and a Skilled Worker visa sponsor. 

How Sable International can help you apply to universities in the UK

Sable International’s study abroad team can assist with the whole process from deciding on the university you wish to attend to admissions and visa assistance. 

We have over 100 UK university partners. For undergrad students, we are an approved Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) centre and can do your UCAS application for you, while for postgraduate applications we have direct access to the admissions teams through our own portals. This enables us to streamline the process for our students and create a stress-free application experience.

Making decisions about your future can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. Sable International’s study advisers are on hand, ready to help you with the entire process and to answer any of your questions.

Get in touch with us study@sableinternational.com or call us on +27 (0) 21 657 1543 for more information about studying abroad. You can even chat to us on WhatsApp on +27 81 710 0460.

Read more about studying in Australia. 

What is a TAFE course?

The Technical and Further Education (TAFE) system, which is run by the government, offers post-secondary education in various vocational fields such as beauty, design, childcare, accounting, carpentry, patisserie, IT and many others. 

While university programmes in Australia often focus on theoretical knowledge, TAFE courses are designed to impart specific, practical skills directly applicable in the workplace. For instance, completing a Certificate III in Carpentry provides the essential skills and knowledge needed to either launch a carpentry business or secure employment as a carpenter.

Benefits of TAFE courses

TAFE courses are generally shorter than university courses, with durations ranging from six months to two years, and can be pursued full-time, part-time, or as apprenticeships. Some universities also integrate TAFE courses into their offerings as foundational programmes or pathways to higher qualifications. 

Other benefits include:

• TAFE courses are more affordable as they are subsidised by the Australian government.
• Exposure to industry insights and networking opportunities
• Gaining practical, job-ready skills
• A diverse selection of courses catering to a wide range of interests
• Flexible study options to accommodate different schedules
• Opportunities for work placement to gain real-world experience
• More accessible entry requirements compared to university programmes
• Pathways to further education and university degrees

For international students, TAFE courses offer a unique blend of educational and cultural experiences, allowing ample time to explore a new country and culture while acquiring practical skills. These skills not only add significant value to your resume but could provide a pathway to remain in Australia permanently. 

Staying in Australia

Australia is facing a great trade skills shortage. According to the government, 50% of occupations in the Technician and Trade Workers category are in national shortage, 36% in Labourers, 34% in Machinery Operators and Drivers, and 24% in Personal Service Workers. 

If you complete a trade qualification in an occupation on Australia’s Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), you may be able to apply for the Temporary Graduate visa after completing your studies. This will allow you to remain in Australia for up to 18 months while you seek employment. Should you find a suitable employer, you can switch to an Employer Sponsored visa, which can lead to Australian permanent residency. 

How Sable International can help you study and stay in Australia

Sable International’s Study Abroad service can help you every step of the way from deciding on the right course to study to assisting with your university application and even getting your visa. 

We are official, in-country representatives for TAFE Queensland and TasTAFE – the largest Registered Training Organisation (RTO) in Tasmania – and 25 other Australian universities. Our partnership provides direct access to the university admissions departments, giving our students a quicker and more streamlined application process. What’s more, assistance with applications to partner universities is completely free of charge. 

Once you have completed your studies, Sable International also has an expert Australian migration team which can guide you through your visa process. 
If you’d like to explore your Australian study abroad options in general, or TAFE courses in particular, get in touch with us at study@sableinternational.com or give us a call on +27 (0) 21 657 1543. You can even reach out to us on WhatsApp on +27 81 710 0460. We look forward to making your study abroad dreams come true.

What exactly is studying abroad?

Universities and colleges have spaces for foreign students who wish to study at their institutions. The course duration can vary from just a semester abroad to an undergraduate degree or even a postgraduate degree. Students are given the same education offered to locals while visiting the country and experiencing it firsthand. While some countries have high education costs, others offer tertiary education at affordable fees.

This still doesn’t answer the question: why study abroad and not at home with family and friends? Here are eight reasons why studying abroad can improve your future career and help you grow as a person.

How studying abroad improves your job prospects

Show employers a range of valuable business skills

Studying abroad places you in new situations that would not be experienced while studying in your home country. This unfamiliar environment will make you think in ways you have never done before. You will be required to solve problems you would not encounter on a regular basis.

Overcoming a complex and stressful situation, such as relocating to an unknown country, shows employers adaptability skills. Studying overseas also showcases a range of communication skills where you were still able to succeed while overcoming cultural or language barriers. Showcasing your knowledge of being a global citizen lets employers know you can handle possible future international business opportunities.

Networking and building relationships with fellow students

You will meet a variety of different people with cultures you may have never known about. Yes, they will become some of your closest friends, but they may also help you in your career.

When you look for a new employment opportunity, your old friend from university can point you to careers you might have never heard about. There may come a day when they know of a position that would suit you perfectly. The same may apply for them one day when you become their source for great employment opportunities. Studying abroad allows you to build and to nurture a wide-reaching global network.

Learn a new language when studying abroad

Whether you consider this a personal or professional benefit is up to you. What can be said for sure is that having a foreign language on your CV is attractive to future employers. Learning the language first hand is often better than from a classroom. You also learn local slang and conversational language as spoken by locals and not textbooks.

Speaking native language opens career pathways in countries that speak that language as a first language. It also helps companies working in those markets to communicate with potential work partners, with you being the perfect intermediate.

Quality education from studying abroad

You know how some schools are known for specific courses by students all around the world? Some universities and colleges have world-renowned quality education in certain disciplines that you would not get in your home country. Studying abroad gives you more options for which institutions can give you the best education for your desired degree or in a degree not offered anywhere else. It looks great on your CV to have the highest possible level of education in your field. These universities also have state-of-the-art facilities which give you hands-on experience before graduating.

How studying abroad can help you grow as a person

A possible route to immigration

One of the main reasons many students choose to study abroad is the possibility that it could open the door to immigration in the future. Many countries have graduate visas for international students who have studied in their countries. These visas allow you to find work in your field and spend more time in the country. While these visas don’t usually lead to residency, you could potentially switch to a work visa where you could qualify for residency.

Studying abroad teaches you valuable life skills

We discussed how showing adaptability can be attractive to employers, but it is also a great life skill to have. Studying abroad helps you develop many skills that will help in the future. This includes travelling on your own, exploring unknown destinations, and problem-solving. This will also give you a sense of maturity and accomplishment, knowing you have undertaken and successfully completed an intimidating yet rewarding task.

Experiencing different cultures in a foreign country

As with learning new languages, studying abroad provides the opportunity to meet people with vastly different cultures. This range of new people can teach you so much about the world and our intercontinental neighbours. The benefits from meeting such a diverse group of people includes an enhanced respect for the global community, understanding global issues, and learning new perspectives. On the other hand, you will also gain valuable insights as to how people view you and your culture. 

 Meet new friends while studying abroad

Some of the friends you make at university can be by your side for the rest of your life. Studying abroad introduces you to people you would never have met in your home country. Plus, overcoming potential cultural barriers is a great skill to have for meeting people in the future. With the improvements to communication arising from the internet and social media, remaining close to friends is easier than ever.

 This is just the tip of the iceberg explaining why studying abroad is so rewarding. There are so many great places to explore while studying towards your dream career. Do your research and find the best degree and country to make these years of your life even more exciting. Once you narrow down some degree options in countries that intrigue you, everything will fall into place and you’ll be studying abroad in no time.

Are you interested in your study abroad options and maybe need more information? Sable International is hosting their annual Study Abroad Expo from 15 – 23 February 2024. in Lusaka, Harare, Johannesburg, Durban and Cape Town.

To register, you can visit the Study Abroad expo page where you can find more information and the schedule. Many UK universities will be in attendance, and it is the perfect opportunity to meet and discuss your options and costs.

Alternatively, get in touch with an international study adviser at study@sableinternational.com or by calling +27 (0) 21 657 1543 (Cape Town) or +27 81 710 0460 (WhatsApp)

ALSO READ: Studying abroad in the UK: A pathway to British citizenship