Australia is one of the world's most sought-after destinations for international students, offering not only world-class education but also clear pathways to permanent residency (PR). For students from Nepal and across the globe, choosing the right course in Australia can transform academic aspirations into long-term career success and immigration opportunities.

The Australian government actively seeks skilled professionals to address workforce shortages across healthcare, technology, engineering, construction, and education sectors. Programs aligned with the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) and Short-term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL) provide the strongest foundation for PR applications. 

This comprehensive guide explores the top PR leading courses in Australia for 2026, helping you make informed decisions about your educational journey and migration strategy. Whether you're considering undergraduate diplomas, bachelor's degrees, or master's programs, we'll outline the pathways, costs, career prospects, and PR eligibility for each field.

Table of Contents

1. Study in Australia from Nepal
2. Top 10 Courses in Demand in Australia
3. Best PR Leading Courses in Australia
4. Best Trade Courses for PR in Australia
5. Best Diploma Courses for PR in Australia
6. Which Master's Degree is Most in Demand in Australia?
7. Tips for Nepalese Students to Choose the Best Course to Study in Australia for PR
8. Conclusion
9. FAQs - Best PR Leading Courses in Australia in 2026

 

Study in Australia from Nepal

Australia has emerged as a premier destination for Nepalese students seeking quality education with excellent migration prospects. With nine universities ranked in the world's top 100 and a robust support system for international students, Australia provides an ideal environment for academic and professional growth.

Why Nepalese Students Choose Australia

The appeal of Australia for Nepalese students extends beyond academic excellence. The country offers globally recognized degrees from institutions accredited under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF), ensuring consistent quality across all educational levels. Australia's multicultural society, with students from 190 nationalities, creates a welcoming environment where Nepalese students find supportive peer communities and cultural familiarity.

Financial flexibility is another significant advantage. Students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during the semester and unlimited hours during breaks, helping offset living expenses while gaining valuable work experience. The presence of a large Nepalese diaspora across major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and regional areas provides cultural comfort and networking opportunities.

Top 10 Courses in Demand in Australia 

The top 10 in-demand courses for 2026 include: Nursing, Engineering (Civil, Mechanical, Electrical), Information Technology and Cybersecurity, Accounting and Finance, Social Work, Teaching and Early Childhood Education, Construction Management, Trade Courses (Cookery, Automotive, Electrical), Data Science and Analytics, and Medical Laboratory Science. These courses address critical skill shortages and feature prominently on skilled occupation lists.

Total employment is projected to increase by 950,000 people in five years and nearly 2 million by 2034, with concentrated growth in healthcare, professional services, and education sectors.

1. Nursing and Healthcare

Nursing roles remain among Australia's most consistent PR pathways, with registered nurses, aged care nurses, and mental health nurses experiencing critical shortages across all states. Average salaries range from AUD 75,000 to 110,000 annually.

2. Engineering Disciplines

Civil, mechanical, electrical, and mining engineers are featured on the MLTSSL. Engineering roles are ideal for independent and regional PR pathways, with strong demand driven by infrastructure and development projects.

3. Information Technology and Cybersecurity

Australia's technology workforce is projected to reach 1.2 million jobs by 2030, driven by AI, cybersecurity, and automation. Software engineers, cybersecurity analysts, and data scientists earn between AUD 90,000 and 125,000 annually.

4. Accounting and Finance

Accountants and auditors remain on skilled occupation lists, particularly for regional areas. Professional year programs enhance PR prospects for accounting graduates.

5. Social Work and Community Services

Government programs like NDIS and My Aged Care drive strong demand for qualified social-work professionals in counseling, community, and healthcare services.

6. Teaching and Early Childhood Education

Australia's Early-Childhood Education Reform Agenda creates strong, long-term demand for qualified teachers to meet preschool participation targets. Secondary teachers, especially in STEM subjects, are also highly sought after.

7. Construction Management

Construction managers and project managers are needed for Australia's ongoing infrastructure boom, particularly in regional areas.

8. Trade Courses

Skilled trades are listed on both the STSOL and ROL, making them ideal for state-sponsored and regional PR visas. Trades include cooks, electricians, plumbers, carpenters, and automotive technicians.

9. Data Science and Analytics

Data-related occupations regularly appear under ICT streams on the skilled lists, with average salaries between AUD 90,000 and 125,000.

10. Medical Laboratory Science

Medical laboratory scientists and pathologists are experiencing shortages, particularly in regional healthcare facilities.

Best PR Leading Courses in Australia

The best PR-leading courses combine MLTSSL listing, high demand ratings, and strong employment outcomes. Top choices include: Bachelor/Master of Nursing, Bachelor/Master of Engineering (all disciplines), Bachelor/Master of Information Technology, Bachelor of Education, Bachelor/Master of Social Work, and professional accounting programs with CPA/CA pathways.

When selecting a PR-focused course, consider three factors: occupation list placement (MLTSSL offers the most flexibility), shortage ratings from Jobs and Skills Australia, and state nomination priorities.

1. Nursing Programs

Bachelor of Nursing and Master of Nursing lead to registration with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). Registered nurses experience a critical shortage across all states, with entry-level nurses starting around $65,000 and experienced nurses earning over $120,000 annually.

• Career outcomes: Registered Nurse, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Nurse Educator, Nurse Unit Manager

2. Engineering Programs

Bachelor of Engineering and Master of Engineering in civil, mechanical, electrical, or mining engineering require accreditation from Engineers Australia. All engineering disciplines appear on the MLTSSL.

• Career outcomes: Civil Engineer, Mechanical Engineer, Electrical Engineer, Project Engineer, Engineering Manager

3. Information Technology Programs

Bachelor of Information Technology and Master of Information Technology cover software development, cybersecurity, data science, and network engineering. Skills assessments are conducted through the Australian Computer Society (ACS).

• Career outcomes: Software Developer, Cybersecurity Analyst, Systems Administrator, IT Project Manager, Data Analyst

4. Teaching Programs

Bachelor of Education or Master of Teaching with specializations in early childhood, primary, or secondary education. Registration is required through the state teaching boards.

• Career outcomes: Primary Teacher, Secondary Teacher, Early Childhood Teacher, Education Coordinator, Department Head

5. Social Work Programs

Bachelor of Social Work or Master of Social Work with accreditation from the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW).

• Career outcomes: Social Worker, Case Manager, Community Services Manager, Family Support Worker, Mental Health Social Worker

6. Accounting Programs

Bachelor of Accounting or Master of Professional Accounting with CPA Australia or Chartered Accountants ANZ pathway. The Professional Year program is recommended for PR.

• Career outcomes: Accountant, Auditor, Tax Consultant, Financial Analyst, Management Accountant

Best Trade Courses for PR in Australia

The best trade courses for PR include Certificate III and IV in Commercial Cookery, Automotive Technology, Electrical, Plumbing, Carpentry, and Certificate III in Individual Support (Aged Care/Disability). These courses typically take 1-2 years, cost AUD 8,000 to 25,000, and lead to occupations on the STSOL or ROL with strong regional demand.

Trade qualifications offer practical pathways to PR, particularly through regional visas and state nominations. Trade occupations consistently appear in shortage lists due to Australia's construction boom and aging workforce.

1. Commercial Cookery

Certificate III and IV in Commercial Cookery (1-2 years) lead to roles as chef or cook. Cooks are on the STSOL, with strong demand in regional areas and hospitality hubs.

• Career outcomes: Chef, Cook, Kitchen Supervisor, Catering Manager
• Salary: AUD 50,000-70,000

2. Automotive Trades

Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology or Automotive Electrical Technology (3 to 4 years, including apprenticeship) trains motor mechanics and automotive electricians.

• Career outcomes: Motor Mechanic, Automotive Electrician, Workshop Supervisor, Service Manager
• Salary: AUD 55,000-80,000

3. Electrical Trades

Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician (4 years including apprenticeship) is one of the most sought-after trades. Electricians appear on multiple state priority lists.

• Career outcomes: Electrician, Electrical Technician, Electrical Supervisor, Electrical Contractor
• Salary: AUD 65,000-95,000

4. Plumbing

Certificate III in Plumbing (3 to 4 years, including apprenticeship) addresses critical shortages, particularly in regional areas experiencing housing growth.

• Career outcomes: Plumber, Gasfitter, Plumbing Supervisor, Plumbing Contractor
• Salary: AUD 60,000-90,000

5. Carpentry and Joinery

Certificate III in Carpentry (3 to 4 years) trains carpenters for residential and commercial construction.

• Career outcomes: Carpenter, Joiner, Construction Supervisor, Building Contractor
• Salary: AUD 55,000-85,000

6. Aged Care and Disability Support

Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing/Disability) (6 to 12 months) provides entry into Australia's fastest-growing sector, driven by an aging population and NDIS expansion.

• Career outcomes: Aged Care Worker, Disability Support Worker, Community Care Worker, Support Coordinator
• Salary: AUD 45,000-60,000

Best Diploma Courses for PR in Australia

Top diploma courses for PR pathways include Diploma of Nursing, Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care, Diploma of Engineering, Diploma of Information Technology, and Diploma of Community Services. These courses take 1-2 years, cost AUD 12,000 to 20,000, and can ladder into bachelor's degrees or directly lead to skilled employment.

Diplomas offer faster, cost-effective pathways compared to bachelor's degrees, with many providing credit toward further study.

1. Diploma of Nursing

Diploma of Nursing (Enrolled Nursing) (18 to 24 months) trains enrolled nurses who work under registered nurses. Provides a pathway to the Bachelor of Nursing with credit transfer.

• Duration: 18 to 24 months
• Career outcome: Enrolled Nurse (salary: AUD 50,000-65,000)

2. Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care

The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care qualifies graduates as early childhood educators and room leaders.

• Duration: 18 to 24 months
• Career outcome: Early Childhood Educator, potential pathway to Bachelor of Education

3. Diploma of Engineering

Diploma of Engineering - Technical in civil, mechanical, or electrical disciplines. Provides credit toward engineering degrees.

• Duration: 2 years
• Career outcome: Engineering technician, pathway to Bachelor of Engineering

4. Diploma of Information Technology

A Diploma of Information Technology covers programming, networking, cybersecurity, and web development.

• Duration: 1 to 2 years
• Career outcome: IT support specialist, junior developer, pathway to Bachelor of IT

5. Diploma of Community Services

Diploma of Community Services prepares graduates for case management and community support roles.

• Duration: 18 to 24 months
• Career outcome: Community services worker, case manager

Which Master's Degree is Most in Demand in Australia?

The most in-demand master's degrees for 2026 are Master of Nursing, Master of Engineering (all disciplines), Master of Information Technology/Cybersecurity, Master of Data Science, Master of Teaching, Master of Social Work, and Master of Professional Accounting. These align with MLTSSL occupations and offer 2-3 years of post-study work rights.

Master's degrees provide advanced skills, higher earning potential, and stronger PR prospects compared to bachelor's degrees.

1. Master of Nursing

For registered nurses or those with relevant health backgrounds, master's programs offer specializations in critical care, mental health, or nurse practitioner pathways.

• Career outcomes: Clinical Nurse Specialist, Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Educator, Nurse Unit Manager
• Salary: AUD 85,000-120,000

2. Master of Engineering

Available in civil, mechanical, electrical, mining, and software engineering. Requires an engineering background or bridging studies.

• Career outcomes: Senior Engineer, Project Engineer, Engineering Manager, Technical Consultant, Research Engineer
• Salary: AUD 80,000-130,000

3. Master of Information Technology

Accepts graduates from any discipline, teaching programming, software development, cybersecurity, and cloud computing. 

• Career outcomes: Software Engineer, Cybersecurity Specialist, IT Manager, Solutions Architect, DevOps Engineer
• Salary: AUD 80,000-120,000

4. Master of Data Science/Analytics

Graduates with analytical, statistical, and computational expertise are highly employable across sectors. 

• Career outcomes: Data Scientist, Data Analyst, Business Intelligence Analyst, Machine Learning Engineer, Analytics Manager
• Salary: AUD 90,000-130,000

5. Master of Teaching

For the undergrad students, this course leads to teacher registration in early childhood, primary, or secondary specializations.

• Career outcomes: Primary Teacher, Secondary Teacher, Early Childhood Teacher, Head of Department, Education Coordinator
• Salary: AUD 70,000-110,000

6. Master of Social Work (Qualifying)

For social work or non-social work graduates seeking AASW accreditation. 

• Career outcomes: Social Worker, Clinical Social Worker, Case Manager, Program Coordinator, Community Services Manager
• Salary: AUD 65,000-95,000

7. Master of Professional Accounting

Designed for accounting or non-accounting graduates, providing a CPA/CA pathway and skills assessment through CPA Australia or CAANZ.

• Career outcomes: Accountant, Management Accountant, Financial Controller, Tax Advisor, Auditor
• Salary: AUD 65,000-100,000

Tips for Nepalese Students to Choose the Best Course to Study in Australia for PR

Nepalese students aiming for PR in Australia should verify their chosen occupation appears on the MLTSSL or state nomination lists, research shortage ratings from Jobs and Skills Australia, consider regional study for extra points, choose accredited programs recognized by relevant assessing authorities, and plan for a professional year or additional qualifications if needed.

1. Check Skilled Occupation Lists

The SOL directly influences which visa subclasses an applicant can apply for. Verify your intended occupation appears on:

• MLTSSL (best for flexibility)
• STSOL (requires state nomination)
• ROL (regional occupation list)

Visit the Department of Home Affairs website or consult with Possible International’s migration agent team.

2. Research Shortage Ratings

Jobs and Skills Australia determines shortage ratings primarily by the vacancy fill rate, with occupations below 67% considered to have a high chance of being in shortage.

Occupations experiencing genuine shortages receive faster processing, more state nomination opportunities, and better employment prospects.

3. Calculate Points Before Enrolling

Use the Australia PR points calculator to estimate your potential score:

• Age (25-32 years): 30 points maximum
• English proficiency (IELTS 8 each): 20 points
• Education (Bachelor/Master): 15 points
• Australian study requirements (2+ years): 5 points
• Completion of Professional Year in Australia: 5 points
• Study in Regional Australia: 5 points
• Work experience: 5-20 points

Competitive invitations typically require 75-85 points, depending on occupation.

4. Consider Regional Study

Studying in regional areas provides:

• 5 additional points for regional study
• Easier state nomination pathways
• Access to the Regional Occupation List
• Lower competition for skilled visas

Regional areas include cities like Adelaide, Perth, Gold Coast, Hobart, and regional parts of NSW, Victoria, and Queensland.

5. Choose Accredited Programs

Every occupation on the list is paired with a designated assessing authority. Ensure your course is recognized by the relevant body:

• Engineers Australia (engineering)
• Australian Computer Society (IT)
• AHPRA (nursing and healthcare)
• CPA Australia/CAANZ (accounting)
• TRA (trades)
• AASW (social work)

6. Plan for Professional Year

For accounting, IT, and engineering graduates, completing a Professional Year Program adds 5 points and improves employability through internships and industry connections.

7. Gain Australian Work Experience

Post-study work rights are crucial. Aim to secure employment closely related to your nominated occupation, as Australian work experience provides:

• 5-20 points depending on duration
• Skills and networks
• Better understanding of workplace culture
• References for future employers

8. Stay Updated on Policy Changes

Immigration policies change regularly. The Skilled Occupation List is reviewed and updated regularly, typically on an annual basis. Check for Department of Home Affairs updates or consult with Possible International’s experienced migration agents.

9. Improve English Proficiency

Higher English scores significantly boost points. Invest time in achieving the highest possible scores before applying.

10. Consult Registered Migration Agents

Professional guidance helps navigate complex requirements, avoid costly mistakes, and identify optimal pathways based on individual circumstances. You can reach out to Possible International’s registered migration agents, and we will help you with personalized application and documentation guidance and support.

Conclusion

Selecting the best PR-leading course in Australia requires balancing personal interests, career goals, and migration objectives. For 2026, courses in nursing, engineering, IT, teaching, social work, and skilled trades offer the strongest pathways to permanent residency through alignment with skilled occupation lists and labor market demands.

Nepalese students have exceptional opportunities to build successful careers in Australia while working toward PR. By choosing strategically, maintaining high academic and English proficiency standards, and gaining relevant Australian work experience, you can maximize your chances of securing permanent residency.

Ready to start your Australian education journey? 

Contact Possible International for expert guidance on course selection, visa applications, and PR pathways tailored to your goals. Our experienced counselors help Nepalese students navigate every step from course enrollment to permanent residency applications.

FAQs - Best PR Leading Courses in Australia in 2026

1. Which course is best for getting a PR in Australia?

Courses that lead to occupations on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL) offer the strongest PR pathways. Nursing, IT, Engineering, Social Work, and Teaching consistently rank as top choices. These fields have clear migration routes and strong job demand across states.

2. Which course has the highest demand in Australia?

Australia currently has high demand for Nursing, Aged Care, IT (cybersecurity, software), Engineering, and Early Childhood Education programs. These sectors face ongoing workforce shortages nationwide. Graduates in these fields often enjoy strong employability and migration benefits.

3. Which skill is best for PR in Australia?

Skills linked to critical shortages, especially in nursing, software development, civil engineering, and teaching, are highly preferred for PR. These professions are regularly listed on the skilled migration lists. Applicants with these skills generally have higher points and better state nomination chances.

4. What is the fastest PR in Australia?

The fastest PR pathways typically come from occupations with severe shortages, such as Registered Nurses, Early Childhood Teachers, Engineers, and certain IT roles. These roles often receive priority processing and strong state nomination support. With the right points and experience, applicants in these fields may secure PR more quickly.