Organization

The Australian education system is very similar to that of the British, and is recognized worldwide for its high quality.
The federal government gives subventions and coordinates the educational system by working with the Australian Educational Council. Higher education is regulated by the state and territorial governments. The private education is managed by each institution.
To be accepted to a higher education program,the application of a student undergoes a selection process that is based on the grade which he/she has obtained in order to receive their High School Certificate. To merely apply to a university, a minimum grade must have been achieved by the student. This is similar to the French baccalaureate system.

Accreditations
All 38 Australian universities (36 public and 2 private) are accredited by the government. The diplomas and certificates awarded by them are recognized worldwide.
The 9O TAFE (Technical and Further Education Colleges) are all under the supervision of the federal government. The diplomas that are awarded to the students are accredited by the government and are recognized worldwide.
The numerous private institutions, Private Education and Training Providers, offer specialized training programs that are more or less recognized by the State. For more information refer to each insitution.

Academic year:
2 semesters: end February/end June
mid July/end November
Summer Session (Optional): December/January.