Medical science courses for international students in Australia

Australia needs more health professionals.

If you’re already studying here, and you have a passion for science and healthcare, then you’re in the perfect position to pursue a medical science program. This field offers more than just a rewarding job. It can also open pathways to permanent residency.

Sounds interesting? Read on to learn about the medical science programs in Australia, IELTS requirements, and PR pathways you can take after a medical science degree. 

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Whether you’re starting your journey in medical science or looking to advance your career, Australia has a range of programs that can meet your needs:

Bachelor of Medical Science (3 years)

• This undergraduate program gives you a solid foundation in medical science, covering topics like human biology, biochemistry, and anatomy. 

• You'll gain hands-on experience in labs and field placements, setting you up for careers in research, healthcare, or pharmaceuticals.

Master of Medical Science (2 years)

• If you already have a bachelor's degree in a related field, a Master of Medical Science lets you dive deeper into specialised areas.

• After finishing a Master’s, you can work in medical research, diagnostics, or laboratory management. 

Master of Public Health (1.5 – 2 years)

• If you want to focus on health policy, epidemiology, or community health, the Master of Public Health offers the chance to become a leader in public health initiatives and research. 

• This program opens up roles in health organisations, government agencies, and non-profits.

Picture this. You’re a laboratory scientist, ready to present your findings to a team of doctors. You’ve spent weeks analysing data and preparing your report. 

But as you explain your results, the words don’t come out right. The doctors look confused, and suddenly, your groundbreaking research sounds less impressive.

Scenarios like these highlight why strong English skills are crucial in medical science. Whether you’re presenting critical research, writing detailed reports, or communicating with diverse teams, your ability to use precise and professional language can make all the difference.

That’s why mastering English proficiency and acing your IELTS isn’t just about meeting academic requirements. It’s about preparing you for real-world challenges, ensuring you’re equipped to excel in the healthcare field.

Speaking of---what IELTS score do you need to qualify for a medical science program anyway?

For undergraduate medical science courses in Australia, you need an overall IELTS score of 6.5, with no band lower than 6.0 in Listening, Reading, Writing, or Speaking. 

These requirements vary between institutions, so it’s always worth confirming with your chosen provider.

Not sure what IELTS score you need?

Don’t stress. We got you! At IELTS, we’re not just here to inform you of the English requirements for your course. We also offer everything you need to succeed—from booking your IELTS test to accessing expert prep materials and practice tests. 

With IELTS, you’ll have the tools and guidance to achieve the score your dream course demands.

Preparing for IELTS can feel overwhelming, especially when balancing studies and life. But with the right support, it doesn’t have to be. 

IDP offers expert-led IELTS preparation courses and official practice materials to help you focus on the areas that need improvement. Whether it’s speaking confidently or mastering tricky writing tasks, we’ve got you covered every step of the way.

Graduating with a medical science degree opens doors to various rewarding careers in healthcare and research. Here are some options you can pursue:

• Medical Laboratory Scientist

• Biomedical Scientist

• Clinical Research Coordinator

• Pharmaceutical Scientist

• Medical Imaging Technologist

• Forensic Scientist

• Healthcare Consultant

• Pathologist Assistant

• Toxicologist

• Health Data Analyst

If you’re an international student in Australia dreaming of a career in medical science, you might be asking yourself—why here?

Well, let’s start with the big one: a medical science degree can be your gateway to permanent residency. That alone is reason enough for many students, but it doesn’t stop there.

Australia’s healthcare industry is booming. According to Jobs and Skills Australia 2025, over 2.2 million people are already working in healthcare and social assistance. This number is expected to increase by nearly 950,000 in the next five years, with a significant chunk of this growth in healthcare. 

What does this mean for you?

With healthcare roles in high demand and many on Australia’s Skilled Occupation List, you’ll have endless job opportunities.

So, not only will you have job security, but you’ll also have a pathway toward permanent residency, making Australia your home for the long term.

If you’re looking to study medical science in Australia, these top universities offer exceptional programs to kickstart your journey. Plus, we’ve included the IELTS requirements to help you plan.

1. The University of Sydney

The University of Sydney offers a four-year degree program that provides a pathway to higher education in fields like medicine, nursing, and dentistry. This program equips students with the foundational knowledge to pursue professional qualifications.

Programs offered:

• Bachelor of Medical Science

• Bachelor of Science (Medical Science major)

• Bachelor of Advanced Studies (Medical Science)

IELTS score required: Overall 7.0, with a minimum of 7.0 in each band.

2. The University of Melbourne

The University of Melbourne’s Bachelor of Biomedicine is a highly versatile program that offers 15 majors, preparing students for further studies in medicine, dentistry, and other health sciences.

Programs offered:

• Bachelor of Biomedicine

• Bachelor of Science (Biomedicine major)

IELTS score required: Overall 6.5, with no band lower than 6.0.

3. Monash University

Monash University offers an innovative double degree program that combines science and medical science, leading to advanced medical qualifications.

Programs offered:

• Bachelor of Biomedical Science

• Bachelor of Biomedical Science Advanced (Honours)

• Bachelor of Medical Science and Doctor of Medicine (MD) – double degree

IELTS score required: Overall 6.5, with a minimum of 6.0 in each band.

4. The University of Queensland

The University of Queensland’s Bachelor of Biomedical Science focuses on molecular and cellular biology, offering a pathway into allied health programs and advanced degrees in medicine.

Programs offered:

• Bachelor of Biomedical Science

• Bachelor of Advanced Science (Biomedical Science major)

IELTS score required: Overall 6.5, with no band lower than 6.0.

5. The University of Western Australia

The University of Western Australia’s Bachelor of Biomedicine covers a wide range of disciplines, enabling students to specialize in genetics, pharmacology, microbiology, and more.

Programs offered:

• Bachelor of Biomedicine

• Bachelor of Science (Biomedical Science major)

IELTS score required: Overall 6.5, with a minimum of 6.0 in all components.

Not sure about IELTS requirements or application steps? 

If you have any questions about applying for a medical science course in your dream university, don't hesitate to contact us at IDP.

Our education counselors can guide you through every step—from choosing the right course and university to understanding entry requirements, preparing for IELTS, and submitting a strong application.

For Undergraduate Programs (Bachelor of Medical Science):

• Completion of high school (Year 12 or equivalent).

• Strong performance in science subjects like Biology, Chemistry, and Mathematics.

• Satisfactory grades in English.

• Minimum ATAR score or equivalent (varies by university).

For Postgraduate Programs (Master of Medical Science):

• A recognized undergraduate degree in medical science, health sciences, or a related field.

• Some universities may require specific prerequisite subjects.

English Proficiency:

• Proof of English language skills, often through an IELTS test.

• Minimum IELTS score: Overall band of 6.5–7.0, with no individual band lower than 6.0–7.0 (varies by university).

Additional Requirements (varies by university):

• Personal statements or essays demonstrating your passion for medical science and career aspirations.

• Relevant work experience or internships in the healthcare or medical research field (optional but advantageous).

• Interviews or assessments for competitive programs.

Once you’ve completed your medical science degree, many options open up for you. Pursuing a postgraduate degree can qualify you for high-demand roles like a dentist, doctor, or medical researcher, all of which are on Australia’s skills shortage list.

While you study, you’ll be on a Student Visa (subclass 500). Once you graduate, you can apply for the Post-Study Work Visa (subclass 485), which allows you to live and work in Australia for up to two years while you secure relevant employment.

From there, you can explore several visa options:

Temporary Visas

• Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (subclass 482)

  • Validity: Up to 4 years.

  • Requirements: You’ll need a job offer from an approved employer.

  • What it provides: Allows you to live and work in Australia temporarily.

• Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa (subclass 494)

  • Validity: Up to 5 years.

  • Requirements: You must be nominated by an approved regional employer.

  • What it provides: Allows you to live and work in a designated regional area of Australia.

• Skilled Work Regional Visa (subclass 491)

  • Validity: Up to 5 years.

  • Requirements: You must be nominated by a state or territory government.

  • What it provides: Allows you to live and work in regional Australia.

Permanent Visas

• Employer Nomination Scheme Visa (subclass 186)

  • A permanent visa that requires a job offer and a nomination from your employer.

• Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189)

  • A permanent visa. Points-tested and requires you to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect. Higher points increase your chances.

• Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190)

  • A permanent visa that requires a nomination from a state or territory and an EOI submission through SkillSelect.

• Regional Sponsor Migration Scheme Visa (subclass 187)

  • A permanent visa for those employed in regional Australia for at least two years under the 482 or 457 visa. Your employer must nominate you.

With so many pathways, choosing the right visa can feel overwhelming. But don’t worry—IDP is here to guide you. From confirming visa requirements to helping you meet your IELTS score for eligibility, IDP’s experts will support you every step of the way.

Thinking about studying medical science in Australia but still unsure where to start?

They say the first step is always the hardest. 

It can feel overwhelming to figure out courses, universities, and IELTS requirements. But once you have these figured out, everything that comes next will be easier.

Let’s start by getting you the IELTS score you need to study a medical science program in Australia. Once you have this important requirement secured, you’ll find it easier to submit your university applications. 

Many universities require an IELTS score of 7 for medical science courses. This is more competitive than other courses, requiring only 6. 

So if you want to get that medical science dream, start preparing for your IELTS now. 

IELTS offers preparation materials, free practice tests, and test booking services. In short, everything you need to ace your IELTS and kickstart your university life in Australia. 

Start preparing and book your IELTS test today.

And if you have more questions on course selection or university application, you can always talk to our education experts at IDP for free!