Careers3 Mar 20255 min read

Top Courses & Skills for International Students Seeking PR in Australia

Dreaming of studying in Australia, then working and living there after you graduate?

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Well, picking the right course is your golden ticket to securing permanent residency! To give yourself the best shot, you’ll need to be familiar with the Skilled Occupation List (SOL) and the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL). These lists cover in-demand career jobs, especially those vital to Australia’s economic growth and development.

Students of University of Adelaide
Students of University of Adelaide

So, what does this mean for you? If your chosen course aligns with an occupation on the MLTSSL, you’ll be eligible to apply for the Graduate Work stream under the Temporary Graduate (subclass 485) visa after completing your studies. This is your path to gaining valuable work experience in Australia!

Table of content for top 10 courses
Table of content for top 10 courses

The MLTSSL highlights a variety of professions that Australia needs for the long haul, but the demand can change based on industry trends, economic shifts, and even regional needs. Fields like healthcare, engineering, and IT consistently top the list—these sectors are crucial to Australia’s economy and keep the wheels turning. 

To stay in the loop on which occupations are hot, it’s smart to keep an eye on the MLTSSL, browse Australian government labour market reports, or have a chat with migration agents who know the ins and outs.

Pro tip: After you graduate, your qualifications and job duties need to align with the ANZSCO (Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations) description for the occupation you’re aiming for. Think of ANZSCO as the rulebook that spells out the job details, required skills, and qualifications for each role on the SOL. Make sure you’re ticking all the right boxes!

But hey, don’t sweat it—there’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to choosing your career path. What really matters is finding something that lights you up and plays to your strengths. Not sure where to start? Gain hands-on experience through internships, chat with career counsellors or university advisors, or even reach out to pros in fields that catch your eye. They’ll give you the lowdown on what their jobs are really like!

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