Degrees Down Under

With UK tuition fees set to rise, a degree abroad has never been so appealing.

Each year, more and more British students are packing their suitcases to start their university career in sunny Australia.

Australian universities are of a similar standard to those in the UK and request similar entry requirements; both A levels and the International Baccalaureate are welcomed by the great majority.

Tuition fees on average range from $10,000-$13,000 (£3850-£5000) and according to government statistics, the average international student spends approximately $320 (£120) per week on: accommodation, clothing, entertainment, food, transport international and domestic travel, telephone and incidental costs.

When compared to the living costs in most UK cities this is extremely competitive especially coupled with the fact that the Australian Immigration authority permits students visiting the country on a student visa to work up to 20 hours per week during term time, and in vacations students can work full time.

Although the potential financial gains of an Australian education from 2006 are worth consideration by all UK university applicants, the possible recreational benefits of becoming an Australian student are overwhelming.

Many Australian universities have extensive sport facilities that rival their US counterparts and during semester break many British students travel further afield to experience more of the country's spectacular natural environment and great physical beauty.

For me, a degree down under is a great alternative to a gap year.

Experiencing this diverse and cultural country can be accomplished during your free time and not at the same great expense that is incurred when spending a gap year there.

Further information about studying in Australia can be found on the Australian governmental database.