Counselling Courses in Australia for International Students
Compare Counselling and Mental Health courses, check your study and PR options, and get expert advice – 100% free.
Written by Lesley Rogan
Reviewed by Akram Mardini (MARN 2519017)
Last updated: June 2026
From Diploma to Masters: Counselling Study Options in Australia
A high-demand & AI-safe career with great job prospects
If you enjoy helping people and want a career that makes a positive difference, counselling could be the right study path for you.
Counsellors work with people who need support with personal, family, relationship, work or life challenges. They help clients develop coping strategies, improve wellbeing and work towards positive outcomes.
Australia offers a range of counselling courses for international students, from entry-level qualifications through to university degrees and postgraduate study. Whether you are starting your studies for the first time or already have a qualification in another field, there may be a counselling pathway that suits your goals.
Why Study Counselling?
✔️ High demand jobs across Australia
✔️ May lead to skilled migration & PR opportunities *
✔️ AI-safe career with real people skills
✔️ Good pay and strong job security
✔️ Make a real difference every day
✔️ Pathway to careers in health & community services
* PR is never guaranteed and depends on your occupation, skills, work experience and Australian migration rules at the time you apply.
What Counselling Qualifications Can I Study on a Student Visa?
There are a few different study areas to choose from, depending on your interests and career goals:
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Counselling – Learn how to support people through life's challenges using communication and counselling skills.
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Counselling and Psychotherapy – Combine counselling techniques with deeper therapeutic approaches.
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Mental Health - Support people with mental health challenges; promoting wellbeing.
Courses are available at Diploma, Bachelor and Post-Graduate level for international students across Australia.
Here are the main Counselling & Mental Health qualifications available for international students in Australia (CRICOS Courses):
1
Counselling
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Diploma of Counselling
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Diploma of Counselling Skills
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Diploma of Counselling & Psychotherapy
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Bachelor of Counselling
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Bachelor of Counselling & Psychotherapy
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Bachelor of Psychological Science & Counselling
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Graduate Certificate of Counselling
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Graduate Diploma of Counselling
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Master of Counselling
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Master of Counselling Practice
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Master of Counselling & Psychotherapy
2
Mental Health
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Certificate IV in Mental Health
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Diploma of Mental Health
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Advanced Diploma of Nursing (Mental Health)
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Graduate Certificate in Mental Health
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Graduate Diploma in Mental Health
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Master of Mental Health
Related
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Bachelor of Psychology
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Bachelor of Psychological Science
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Graduate Diploma of Psychology
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Master of Psychology (specialised pathways)
3
Can Counselling Studies Get Me Skilled Migration?
For international students looking at PR, counselling can be a good option, but the pathway depends on the occupation you qualify for, not simply the course you study. This information is as of June 2026.
The migration information provided on this page is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered personal migration advice. This content has been reviewed by Akram Mardini (MARN 2519017).
1 / Rehabilitation Counsellor (ANZSCO 272114)
Listed on Australia's Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL), and may be eligible for employer-sponsored migration pathways.
2 / Drug & Alcohol Counsellor (ANZSCO 272112)
Included on the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL).
3 / Family & Marriage Counsellor (ANZSCO 272113)
Included on the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL).
4 / Counsellors nec (ANZSCO 272199)
May be eligible for employer-sponsored pathways depending on the role and employer.
Possible Career Outcomes for Australian Counsellers and Therapists
Your career opportunities will depend on your qualification, skills, experience and any professional registration requirements.
Entry Requirements for International Students
Academic Requirements
Academic entry requirements for counselling will depending on the college or university, but generally include:
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Completion of Year/Grade 12 for Diploma and Bachelor courses
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Completion of a Bachelor degree (possibly in any field) for Postgraduate Diplomas or Masters programs
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English language requirements, usually around the equivalent of IELTS 5.5–7.0, depending on the course and education provider
English Language Requirements
English language entry requirements will depend on the education provider and level of the course, but generally fall within the following range:
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the equivalent of IELTS 5.5–7.0 depending on the course and provider
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test results usually need to be less than 3 years old
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students from certain English-speaking countries may be exempt from providing an English test score
Counselling courses in Australia often have higher English requirements than many other study.
485 Temporary Graduate Visa
Bachelor & Masters graduates may be be eligible to apply for the 485 Temporary Graduate Visa (often called the TR Visa) - giving you time to get the work experience required to have the potential for skilled migration in your career. Requirements include graduating:
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by the age of 35
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after a minimum of 92 weeks of study on an eligible visa
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with a related qualification
There are many variables, so read about the 485 Graduate Visa here
Check your eligibility to become a Couselling Professional in Australia
Not sure which level of study is the right fit for you?
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Speak with a course counsellor today
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Get a personalised study pathway based on your education level & life/work experience
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Start your application
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Counselling & Mental Health Courses in Australia
King Wei Leong (Isaac)
Malaysia
I am extremely happy with the services provided by them. I had Lesley and Monika as my agents and they were super professional, friendly, kind and helpful. They are very knowledgeable and supportive throughout the process and provided very quick response on every questions I had. I had a wonderful experience with them and would totally recommend them.
Julieta Alejandra Porta
Argentina
I’m incredibly grateful for the support I received with my student visa process. Everything was explained clearly, and I felt genuinely cared for throughout the entire journey. Thanks to the guidance and encouragement, I was able to submit a strong application and get a successful outcome. Highly recommend to anyone needing honest and professional help!
Bianca Stam
the Netherlands
Lesley was very attentive and helped me a lot with the whole proces of choosing a study and applying for the student visa. She always gave me honest advice and was straight to the point. She took a lot of stress away from me by replying quickly and by being always there to answer my questions. Would highly recommend her services. Thank you Lesley!