Study in Australia with low marks: Are you worried that low marks will stop your child from studying in Australia? The good news is studying in Australia without high marks is still possible, especially for UAE-based students who explore the right pathway options.
Many students from Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and other parts of the GCC successfully begin their Australian education journeys each year even without scoring above 70%. Whether your child has just finished Grade 12 or holds a bachelor’s degree with average grades, this article explains the real, practical routes that still lead to world-class degrees, jobs, and even permanent residency in Australia.
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Study in Australia with Low Marks – Is It Really Possible?
Yes, absolutely. Australia’s education system offers flexible foundation programs, diploma-to-degree pathways, and skills-based options that are designed to help students progress regardless of their high school or undergraduate marks.
These pathways are offered through TAFEs (Technical and Further Education) and private pathway colleges that work in partnership with leading universities. The focus is on building academic skills and preparing students for bachelor’s or master’s entry without needing top grades upfront.
Pathway to a Degree Even Without 70% Marks
If a student doesn’t meet direct entry requirements (such as 70%+ in CBSE/ICSE or equivalent), there’s still a structured path forward:
Foundation Programs (After Grade 12): Designed for students with lower academic scores, these courses prepare students for university-level study in 8–12 months.
Diploma-to-Degree Pathways: Students can start with a 1-year diploma at a pathway college and progress directly into the 2nd year of a bachelor’s program.
TAFE Colleges: These government-backed institutions offer vocational diplomas and advanced diplomas in PR-eligible fields like hospitality, nursing, old care, IT, and engineering.
PR Courses After Diploma – A Smart Choice
One of the biggest concerns for UAE parents is whether their investment will lead to real career outcomes. The answer lies in choosing PR-eligible diploma or trade courses that align with Australia’s Skilled Occupation List.
Some popular options include:
- Nursing and Aged Care
- Civil or Electrical Engineering
- Automotive Technology
- Hospitality Management
- Early Childhood Education
- IT and Cybersecurity
After completing a diploma or bachelor’s degree in these fields, students can access post-study work visas (up to 4 years), gain local work experience, and apply for permanent residency pathways.
Real Example: Farhan from Dubai
Farhan scored 58% in his CBSE Grade 12 exams but dreamed of studying in Australia. He enrolled in a diploma program in Hospitality Management at a TAFE in Queensland. After one year, he transitioned into the second year of a bachelor’s program and is now working part-time at a resort while studying. Farhan is already on track for post-study work rights and a clear PR roadmap.
Read More: UK vs Australia Study Comparison: Best Choice for UAE Students, Right Choice
Don’t Let Marks Stop the Dream
If your child has the ambition but not the marks, don’t lose hope. Australia’s diploma-to-degree pathway and foundation programs are designed to support students who need a second chance. With the right guidance, low grades don’t have to limit international education or career success.
Need Help Finding the Right Course?
At Guide to Heights, we help UAE/ GCC students and parents find study options in Australia—even with low marks. Our experts can shortlist universities, recommend PR-eligible programs, and build a customised study-abroad roadmap.
📞 Call: +91 8921652087
Visit: Guide to Heights
