Top 10 Undergraduate Courses in Australia for PR (2026): Jobs & Wages

Introduction

Is your dream to settle in Australia after your studies? Choosing the right degree is the first and most critical step. Many Indian students make the mistake of picking a course based only on interest, ignoring the PR (Permanent Residency) potential.

In 2026, the Australian government is prioritizing specific skills. If you study these subjects, you get extra points for PR and better job security.

This blog covers the Top Undergraduate Courses in Australia for PR, part-time work wages, and the complete admission process for Indian students.

Highlights: Australia Study 2026

Feature	Details
Popular Intakes	February, July, November
Minimum Wage (2026)	~AUD 24.95 - $31.19 per hour
Post-Study Work Visa	2 to 4 Years (depending on course)
PR Visa Types	Subclass 189, 190, 491
Avg. Annual Tuition	AUD 30,000 – AUD 45,000
English Tests Accepted	IELTS, PTE, TOEFL

Why Study in Australia in 2026?

Australia is no longer just a travel destination; it is a career hub. Here is why thousands of Indian students are choosing Australia this year:

• High Minimum Wage: In 2026, the national minimum wage is approximately AUD 24.95 per hour. With casual loading (extra pay for casual workers), you can earn over AUD 31 per hour.

• Work While Studying: You can work 48 hours per fortnight during classes and unlimited hours during breaks.

• Regional Benefits: Studying in cities like Perth, Adelaide, or Gold Coast gives you extra points for PR and a 3-4 year post-study work visa.

• Safe Environment: Australian cities are consistently ranked among the safest and most liveable in the world.

Confused between Australia and Canada for settlement? Read our guide on the Best Courses for Canada PR (2026) to see which country offers a faster pathway for you.

Understanding the PR Points System (Simplified)

Before looking at courses, you must understand how PR is granted. The Department of Home Affairs uses a points-based system. You need a minimum of 65 points, but a safe score for Indian students is usually 85+.

How to get points in 2026:

• Age (18-24): 25 Points

• Age (25-32): 30 Points (The "Golden Age")

• Superior English (IELTS 8 / PTE 79+): 20 Points

• Australian Study (2+ Years): 5 Points

• Regional Study: 5 Points

• Professional Year: 5 Points

Tip: Choosing a course listed on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) is the best way to secure your future.

Top 10 Undergraduate Courses in Australia for PR

Here is the curated list of top undergraduate courses in Australia for PR that are in high demand for 2026.

1. Nursing & Midwifery

The healthcare sector faces a massive shortage. If you complete a Bachelor of Nursing, you are almost guaranteed a job and a fast track to PR.

• Average Salary: AUD 75,000 – AUD 90,000

• PR Prospects: Extremely High

• Popular Roles: Registered Nurse, Midwife, Aged Care Worker

2. Civil & Construction Engineering

Australia is building massive infrastructure projects. They need engineers to design and manage these builds.

• Average Salary: AUD 85,000 – AUD 110,000

• PR Prospects: High (Civil Engineering is on the MLTSSL)

• Popular Roles: Civil Engineer, Project Manager, Site Supervisor

3. Information Technology (IT) & Cyber Security

With cyber threats rising, Australia needs tech experts. Courses in Cyber Security and Software Engineering are top choices.

• Average Salary: AUD 80,000 – AUD 120,000

• PR Prospects: High (Especially for Cyber Security specialists)

• Popular Roles: Developer, Security Analyst, Network Engineer

4. Teaching (Early Childhood & Secondary)

Teachers are in high demand, especially in regional areas. The government actively invites teachers to apply for PR.

• Average Salary: AUD 70,000 – AUD 95,000

• PR Prospects: Very High

• Popular Roles: Early Childhood Teacher, Secondary School Teacher

5. Social Work

This is a noble profession with excellent migration outcomes. It involves helping communities and individuals.

• Average Salary: AUD 70,000 – AUD 90,000

• PR Prospects: High (Consistent demand)

• Popular Roles: Social Worker, Community Worker, Welfare Officer

6. Accounting & Finance

While competitive, a degree in Accounting coupled with a CPA/CA qualification remains a strong pathway.

• Average Salary: AUD 65,000 – AUD 85,000

• PR Prospects: Medium (Requires high points)

• Popular Roles: Accountant, External Auditor, Tax Accountant

7. Automotive Engineering & Trades

Love cars? Courses in automotive technology or mechanical trades are surprisingly good for migration.

• Average Salary: AUD 60,000 – AUD 80,000

• PR Prospects: High (Trade shortage)

• Popular Roles: Motor Mechanic, Automotive Electrician

8. Agriculture & Environmental Science

Australia is an agricultural giant. They need experts to manage farms and land sustainably.

• Average Salary: AUD 65,000 – AUD 90,000

• PR Prospects: High (Regional demand)

• Popular Roles: Agricultural Scientist, Agronomist

9. Electrical Engineering

Similar to Civil Engineering, the push for renewable energy is driving demand for electrical engineers.

• Average Salary: AUD 90,000 – AUD 115,000

• PR Prospects: High

• Popular Roles: Electrical Engineer, Power Systems Engineer

10. Psychology

Mental health awareness is growing. A Bachelor’s degree followed by a Master’s can lead to registration as a Psychologist.

• Average Salary: AUD 80,000 – AUD 100,000

• PR Prospects: High (Clinical Psychologists)

• Popular Roles: Psychologist, Counsellor

Part-Time Work & Expenses in 2026

Can you survive on part-time wages? Yes, if you manage your money well.

Job Options for Students:

• Retail/Sales: AUD 25 - 28/hr

• Hospitality (Waiter/Barista): AUD 26 - 32/hr

• Aged Care Support: AUD 30 - 35/hr

• Tutoring: AUD 30 - 50/hr

• Delivery Driver: AUD 20 - 25/hr

Living Cost Breakdown (Monthly):

• Rent (Shared): AUD 800 – AUD 1,200

• Groceries: AUD 300 – AUD 400

• Transport: AUD 150

• Phone/Internet: AUD 60

Total Monthly Cost: Approx. AUD 1,500 – AUD 1,800. Potential Earnings (48 hours/fortnight): Approx. AUD 1,500 – AUD 2,000.

It is possible to cover your living expenses, but your tuition fees usually need support from home.

Eligibility & Admission Process

To study one of these top undergraduate courses in Australia for PR, you must meet these criteria:

1. Academic Requirements

• 12th Grade Completion: Minimum 60-75% (varies by university).

• Stream: Science/Commerce relevant to the course.

2. English Language Requirements

• IELTS: Overall 6.0 or 6.5 (no band less than 6.0).

• PTE Academic: Overall 50-58.

• TOEFL iBT: Overall 60-79.

3. Documents Required

• Passport

• 10th & 12th Marksheets

• English Test Scorecard (IELTS/PTE)

• Statement of Purpose (SOP)

• Proof of Funds (to show you can pay fees)

If you are keeping your options open, check out the Best Undergraduate Courses in UK (2026) to compare admission criteria and course duration.

Cost of Studying vs. Return on Investment (ROI)

Is it worth spending 30 Lakhs to 60 Lakhs INR?

Let’s do the math:

• Total Degree Cost (3 Years): ~AUD 100,000 (₹55 Lakhs).

• Part-time Earnings (3 Years): ~AUD 54,000 (₹30 Lakhs).

• Post-Study Job Salary (Year 1): ~AUD 70,000 (₹38 Lakhs).

You can recover a significant portion of your investment within 2-3 years of graduating, especially if you secure PR and work full-time.

FAQs: Top Undergraduate Courses in Australia for PR

1. Which course is best for PR in Australia for Indian students in 2026?

Nursing, Teaching (Secondary/Early Childhood), and Civil Engineering are currently the best courses for PR due to high skill shortages in Australia.

2. What is the minimum wage for international students in Australia in 2026?

As of 2026, the minimum wage is approximately AUD 24.95 per hour. Casual workers (like students in retail/hospitality) often earn a higher "casual rate" of around AUD 31+ per hour.

3. Does studying in Regional Australia help with PR?

Yes! Studying in a designated regional area (like Perth, Gold Coast, or Adelaide) gives you 5 extra PR points and access to the Subclass 491 visa, which is a great pathway to permanent residency.

4. What are the top undergraduate courses in Australia for PR in the medical field?

Apart from MBBS, the top courses are Bachelor of Nursing, Bachelor of Physiotherapy, and Bachelor of Social Work.

5. Can I work full-time while studying?

No, international students are limited to 48 hours per fortnight while their course is in session. However, you can work unlimited hours during scheduled semester breaks.

6. What is the cost of studying Engineering in Australia?

The tuition fees for a Bachelor of Engineering typically range from AUD 35,000 to AUD 45,000 per year, depending on the university.

7. Is it difficult to get PR after an IT degree?

IT is competitive but high in demand. To increase your chances, focus on specializations like Cyber Security or Data Science, and aim for a Professional Year (PY) program after graduation to boost your points.

Conclusion

Australia offers a fantastic blend of high-quality education, high wages, and a clear path to settlement. By choosing one of the top undergraduate courses in Australia for PR, you are not just getting a degree; you are investing in a global future.

Next Steps for You:

• Check your eligibility: Calculate your potential PR points based on age and English.

• Choose a Regional University: Boost your chances by 5-10%.

• Start Early: The admission process takes 4-6 months.