An international student’s guide to high school in Brisbane
Australia’s education system is one of the best in the world, and those who study at high school in Brisbane will be on the path to receiving a top-quality education and embarking on a rewarding career.
Whether state-owned or private, all Brisbane high schools follow a comprehensive curriculum taught by experienced, university-qualified teachers.
International students who choose to study in Brisbane will achieve internationally recognised qualifications while improving their English and growing their independence.
Many international students stay with Australian families through the homestay program, making connections for life, and are able to study subjects not offered in their home countries.
What age do students finish high school in Brisbane?
Australian schooling is split into two parts. Students begin with six years of primary education (years 1 to 6), followed by six years of high school (years 7 to 12).
Generally, students complete high school aged around 17 or 18 years old.
When do students attend high school?
The school year starts in January and ends in December. The year is split into two semesters and four terms, with vacations at the end of each term.
Generally school is in session from 9am to 3pm from Monday to Friday, but some schools offer more flexible schedules, especially for senior students.
Classes have a maximum of 28 students in junior high school, and a maximum of 25 students for senior years 11 and 12.
What qualifications do students receive?
Brisbane students who successfully complete Year 12 will receive the internationally recognised Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE).
Many students will also receive an Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR). This is a national ranking used to determine who gets offered placements at university. To receive an ATAR, students need to pass their chosen subjects, including English.
ATAR is a ranking, not a score, so if a student receives an ATAR of 80, that means they’re in the top 20 per cent of students for the year. The rank is based on the student’s results for their best subjects.
What subjects do students learn about in high school?
English is a compulsory subject at all Australian high schools, and many schools require students to study mathematics and science to a certain level.
Students can also explore their interests in the humanities and social sciences, health and physical education, technologies, the arts and languages.
Many Brisbane high schools also offer special subjects and university pathways, some of which give students credit towards tertiary study, or a career head start.
If a student has a particular interest, check with the individual high school you’re interested in to see if the subject is offered at that institution.
Subjects taught at some schools, but not all schools, include dance, aerospace systems, film and television, literature, marine science, psychology, economics, fashion, tourism and so much more.
The first week as an international student in Brisbane
Brisbane high schools welcome international students with special orientation programs.
In the first weeks of school, international students are invited to meet the teachers, tour the school grounds and get settled in.
The orientation may also cover things such as student visa rules, school policies, school uniforms and timetables, details about subjects, homestay advice and safety tips.
What’s it like attending high school in Brisbane?
Usually students will arrive about half an hour before classes begin for the day, giving them time to catch up with friends or finish any homework.
Then the day unfolds with three to six subjects or classes per day, and two or three breaks.
The first break for morning tea is usually quite short, while the second break gives students time to socialise, get active or study. Most students will either spend their free time outside, relaxing on the lawn or playing sports, or in the library or learning centre.
School finishes around 3 or 3.30pm, and some students will stay back for extracurricular activities such as music practice or tennis club.
Extra assistance for international students
Brisbane’s education system is set up to provide extra help for those who don’t speak English as a first language, and many schools offer English language support.
Consult with individual schools to find out what extra assistance is available for you.
Finding the right high school in Brisbane
International students wishing to study at high school in Brisbane need to find an institution that is registered with the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS).
Study Queensland has pulled together a comprehensive directory of CRICOS-registered high schools.
University events and connections for high school students
As most Australian students transition straight from high school into tertiary study, Brisbane’s universities provide many opportunities for these students to familiarise themselves with their campuses.
Throughout the year, high school students and their parents will have the opportunity to attend university events, take part in open days, spend hands-on days exploring potential courses, or speak to recent graduates of their dream degree.
Look for upcoming events at:
