Study in Canberra
The ACT Government welcomes international students to its 91 public schools that cater for students from kindergarten (age 6) to year 12 level (around 18 years of age).
We embrace cultural diversity, offering international students innovative, future focused and quality learning environments.
We support international students to develop:
- understanding and skills in many learning areas
- critical thinking, cultural integrity, inquiry, leadership and teamwork
- confidence in English fluency in academic and social settings.
Find out more about the ACT’s public (government) schools and how to apply to study here in our Canberra Government Schools 
(532kb) brochure.
Australia’s national capital, Canberra, is a political, cultural and educational hub with the potential to challenge international students, to give new perspectives and to help define future directions. Canberra is a destination known for safety and being easy to get around by walking, cycling and using public transport.
The final two years of schooling in Canberra are in a separate College setting in which students are supported to be effective independent learners in preparation for tertiary study. A statutory authority, the Board of Senior Secondary Studies (BSSS), accredits courses for the ACT Senior Secondary Certificate and quality assures that what is offered meets the entrance requirements of Australian tertiary institutions.
Assessment is continuous, with no final examination. Annually the top 25 year 12 international students in ACT public schools attain an Australian Tertiary Admission Rank of 90 or above.
Support for international students is provided by staff in the International Education Unit and International Private Students (IPS) Coordinators at individual school sites.
Local families, through the Directorate’s homestay program, offer international students a ‘family life’ experience in a welcoming and nurturing environment.
Further information about living, working, studying and visiting Canberra is available at: canberra.com.au
School websites are at: ACT Education - Public Schools in the ACT.
Contact us
International Education Unit at ieu@act.gov.au or by phone on +61 2 6205 9178
CRICOS Registration Number: 00643J5