Post-study life
Deciding what to do after you graduate university is a big decision, and it often comes with a lot of stress to make sure you’re making the right choice.
If you’re nearing the end of your studies or have recently graduated and wondering what’s next for you, we have put together a short guide to help you explore your options.
Starting your career
Working in Australia
If you're looking to stay in Australia for work after completing your course, you may be eligible for a post-study work visa.
There are a few visa options depending on your profession, qualification, circumstances and location, and your visa application will be subject to meeting specific conditions.
You may also seek employment with an organisation that is willing to sponsor your stay in Australia, which can lead into a pathway for permanent residency if you and employer choose.
For full details, visit the Department of Home Affairs website.
Starting your career in your home country
If you don’t wish to continue to study or work in Australia, then your best option is to return home after completing your studies.
Returning home with an international qualification and work experience can benefit you greatly when seeking employment in your home country.
If you are looking to return, you can follow our returning home checklist to make sure you have everything covered.
We’ve also prepared some advice on packing up and customs so you know what you can and cannot take out of Australia.
Furthering your studies
Progress into postgraduate studies
Continuing into postgraduate studies is a popular option for international students with a completed undergraduate degree in Australia.
As a postgraduate student, not only will you be able to extend your stay for the duration of your course, but you will also have opportunities to gain more international experience, specialise or diversify your skillset and create new professional networks and opportunities.
There’s also a range of postgraduate scholarships and incentives, such as La Trobe’s Alumni Advantage that offers La Trobe graduates a 10% fee reduction on full-fee postgraduate coursework programs.
Explore our postgraduate degrees to view your study options.
Progress into a graduate research degree
If you have completed postgraduate studies or Honours, you can pursue a graduate research degree.
La Trobe University offers graduate researchers three types of research degree. You can complete a Master by Research for up to two years full time or pursue a PhD or professional doctorate for up to four years full time.
A graduate research degree will enable you to become an expert in your field to unlock further career opportunities in research, academia and industry.
Explore our graduate research degrees to view your study options.