For Hong Kong students looking to further their education abroad, Australia offersa combination of quality institutions providing numerous programmes at varying academic levels.
With the Australian dollar in the doldrums, obtaining a degree from a university is more affordable than ever.
Goh Yeun Yeun, senior administrative officer in Hong Kong for International Development Programme Education Australia, said the courses were well recognised by employers.
'Australian universities offer a lot of courses that are recognised by the Hong Kong Government, so it is conducive to getting a job back here. This can be an important advantage, especially when times are tough,' she said.
'All the institutions in Australia have to be registered with the Australian Government, so there is a high level of quality control. During this economic crisis, students have to look for value for money. With the Australian dollar quite weak against the Hong Kong dollar, studying in Australia represents good value compared to the US, Britain or Canada. The costs of living and tuition compare well.' Ms Goh said many stu dents applied to overseas institutions on the basis of perceived prestige or name, unaware that competition for entry to these institutions was fierce.
'A more effective way to decide on a study destination is, rather than evaluating an institution's reputation, to clearly identify a proposed course of study,' she said.