Introduction
Primary school education in NSW takes 7 years. It begins in kindergarten when children are about 5 years old and ends in Year 6 when they're about 12. The international student program is offered at selected schools in NSW.
You can apply for up to 2 years of study as an international student in a NSW primary school.
Eligibility
- there are no English language entry requirements
- children aged from 5 to 10 must live with a parent during their time in Australia
- children aged 11 and 12 can live with a parent, or a direct relative approved by the Department of Immigration and Border Protection.
If you'd like help with your application, the Department of Education International (DE International) has a worldwide network of representative agents to guide you through the process.
What you need
- your personal details
- certified copy of your birth certificate or your passport
- visa details (if applicable)
- your accommodation and welfare documentation
- overseas student health cover (OSHC) details (if applicable)
- evidence of satisfactory progress in literacy and numeracy (if applicable)
- certified translations of all supporting documents that are not in English
- your method of payment.
How to apply
- Check the eligibility requirements.
- Select the 'Apply online' button.
- Register as a new student.
- Complete and submit your online application.
More information
- All NSW government primary schools are co-educational schools, with boys and girls in the same classes.
- Students who are wanting to enrol in a NSW government high school after they've completed Year 6 may be required to do an intensive English language course during the second semester of Year 6.
- DE International representative agents are also able help you with visa applications if you wish.
- There are 4 school terms:
- Term 1 begins in January
- Term 2 begins in April
- Term 3 begins in July
- Term 4 begins in October.
- Primary school applicants can enrol from Term 1 to Term 4.
Last updated: 15 November 2023