Speech Pathology
Speech pathology programs in Australia are a great choice for Canadians looking to become qualified to practice as a speech pathologist. Find out more.
Studying Speech Pathology in Australia
Speech pathology is a health profession that falls under the area of human communication sciences. Speech pathology, also referred to as speech therapy, is the diagnosis, management and treatment of individuals who are unable to communicate effectively or who have difficulty with feeding and swallowing.
With few speech pathology programs offered by Canadian universities and since admission into these programs are increasingly competitive, graduate-entry speech pathology programs in Australia are a top choice for Canadians seeking to gain qualifications as a speech pathologist.
Australian universities offer undergraduate and graduate-entry professional certification programs in speech pathology, as well as a wide range of postgraduate options in specialized areas. Speech pathology programs in Australia aim to equip students with the theoretical knowledge, skills and professional attributes necessary for a career in speech pathology.
There are a limited number of places available in speech pathology programs in Australia for international students, and program start dates, admissions requirements, and application deadlines vary among universities. All programs require a student to have completed a bachelor’s degree and specific undergraduate subjects. These undergraduate prerequisites vary among Australian speech pathology programs.
Here’s what you’ll find on this page:
How to Apply to Speech Pathology Schools in Australia
The process of applying to an Australian speech pathology school can feel both simple and confusing at the same time. That’s why we’re here. Our goal is to have the best prepared students ready for a first-class educational experience in Australia and New Zealand—and we take that to heart.
When you’re considering speech path school in Australia, you may have questions about
- your eligibility;
- the application;
- how (and where) to submit your documents; and
- what we do with your application.
We’ve got you covered. Head on over to our how to apply to speech pathology school in Australia page where you’ll find info about what to expect!
Practicing Speech Pathology in Canada
Upon graduation, you are eligible to apply to become a speech pathologist in Canada. For a detailed overview of the certification process, please visit Speech-Language & Audiology Canada (SAC) website.
It is imperative that you understand the requirements and procedures associated with entering the speech and language pathology profession in Canada. It is your responsibility to meet the necessary requirements to become a member of the regulatory body in your province, if necessary. Currently in Canada, eight provinces require mandatory registration with a regulatory body.
For more information, check out our Practicing Speech Pathology in Canada page.
Related FAQs Have a Question About Australian Speech Path Schools?
See below for some frequently asked questions. Still need answers? Send us a request for information or contact a student advisor today.
Can my partner or family come to Australia with me if I get an offer?
Many Canadians wish to fulfill their career goals after getting married, having kids, or both! We’ve had plenty of students who have taken their partner and/or children with them.
If you want to take your partner or family with you, you’ll need to add them as a secondary applicant or dependents to your student visa application. Even if you don’t plan on taking them with you, we suggest you add them to your application anyway because it can be complex, expensive, and time-consuming to add them afterwards. You’ll then need to provide additional documentation to support your claims of a relationship or your children’s dependency status.
In addition to looking after the visa, you’ll also need to ensure they’re included on your Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), you have appropriate accommodation, and if you’re bringing children, you’ll need to enroll them in school.
Visit our Health Insurance page for more information.
When should I apply?
We recommend you begin your OzTREKK application about a year before your program would start. Most programs in Australia start between January and March, so that means you would start your OzTREKK application between January and March the year prior.
Here’s how the typical “cycle” works if your program starts January – March:
March – May: You gather all required documents like passport photo page, transcripts, résumé, personal statement, and send them to our office. Don’t worry, we’ll tell you exactly what we need!
June – August: Interviews (if your program requires one)
September – December: Offer time! If you get an offer, we’ll walk you through the acceptance (or decline) process and give you all the help you need to get ready to go.
January – March: Time to head Down Under!
Are there any scholarships for international students?
Scholarship options in Australia are usually limited for international students as they tend to be reserved for those undertaking postgraduate research degrees; however, we can advise you where to look and whether specific programs have a history of offering scholarships.
Occasionally, scholarships are granted to high achievers—those with very high marks. In previous years, we have seen $5000- to $10,000-scholarships given to OzTREKK students.
Check out OzTREKK’s Financing page to learn more about scholarships and paying for your degree.
Do you have course outlines on file?
Before sending us outlines, check to see if we’ve already got them. We can save you a lot of time and ensure we’re submitting good outlines on your behalf. Outlines must be within 2 years of the time you took the course (as listed on your transcript).
I received a low mark on my prerequisite course. Will this impact my application?
To meet the prerequisite subjects, you need to have been granted the credit (passed); the grade isn’t considered in the prerequisite assessment.
What does “rolling admissions” mean?
Rolling admissions means the university assesses applications as they are received, or on a “first come, first served” basis. As soon as they’ve met the quota and the program is filled, they close the applications. So, for a program that has rolling admissions, the earlier you apply the better!
How does OzTREKK know if my application will be competitive?
The majority of Canadians applying to full-degree programs in Australia (i.e., not study abroad courses, which usually only last a semester or two) apply through OzTREKK. They’re studying medicine, dentistry, law, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, etc.
Since they’re using OzTREKK’s services, this gives us a good idea of the starting point of a competitive application each year, allowing us to help you determine which universities/programs are most likely to present you with a letter of offer!
You can get started on determining your chances by reviewing the admissions requirements on each program page. Then, visit our GPA Conversions and Eligibility pages for details and suggestions to help you get into the program of your dreams. Of course, OzTREKK is always here to help if you have questions.
What is a 5.0 GPA in Australia?
Unlike in Canada, GPAs in Australia are simple. They are standardized, so they mean the same thing to everyone.
In Australia, a 5.0 / 7.0 would roughly translate to a 2.7 / 4.0 or approximately 70% – 72%, but keep in mind all universities assess slightly differently.
Learn more on our GPA Conversions page where we list the most common Canadian GPA scales to their corresponding Australian GPA grade.
Which prerequisites do I need?
Prerequisite courses vary by university and by program. We’ve listed university- and program-specific requirements on each program’s page under “Admissions Requirements.”
How do universities calculate GPA?
Calculations differ by university, but most use cumulative (all units within a program) or weighted GPA (typically last 2 or 3 years of study). See GPA Calculations for more information.
What are official transcripts, and how do I send them?
Currently, our Australian universities require original transcripts to assess your application—certified by OzTREKK, which means we have to put our stamp on paper. Literally.
Usually, students order transcripts from their high school, college and/or university and have them mailed to our office. Alternatively, you can pick up your transcripts and mail them to OzTREKK, as long as they remain in their original, sealed envelopes.
You will need to submit final transcripts (showing your degree/diploma is completed) from every institution you have attended. We only require one copy of each transcript, even if you apply to multiple universities or programs.
OzTREKK educational services
301-1 Sherbrooke St. E.
Perth, ON K7H 1A1 CANADA
Alternatively, your high school, college and/or university can email them to transcripts@oztrekk.com.
P.S. Try sending your documents via FedEx and Purolator, especially when you need your documents to arrive at our office ASAP. If you use Canada Post’s courier Xpresspost, please don’t request a signature, as this can add unexpected delays!
As soon as your transcript arrives, we’ll let you know!
You don’t meet the required prerequisites
Most Australian graduate-entry speech pathology programs require a student to have completed specific undergraduate subjects.
1. Apply to programs that don’t have prerequisites
Griffith University or Flinders University don’t require prerequisite courses. Alternatively, the University of Sydney Master of Speech Language Pathology program doesn’t have prerequisites; however, you’ll be asked to complete online modules to bring your knowledge up to requirement before the start of the program. Sydney will issue the student a conditional offer with these modules as part of the conditions.
2. Enroll in the missing prerequisite(s)
Most Australian universities will let you take non-award courses during the application season to make up the prerequisites you’re missing. This means you can submit your application with your interim transcript and proof of enrollment into the prerequisite course. Before enrolling in any prerequisite course, we advise checking with either your admissions officer or with the university to make sure the course will satisfy the prerequisite.
If you haven’t completed the prerequisite course(s) by the time offers are issued, then universities may issue a conditional offer. Please note that not all universities will issue conditional offers and it may vary for each program. It’s always best to check with OzTREKK to see if your program of interest will give conditional offers.
What is the appropriate regulatory body in my province?
Alberta – Alberta College of Speech-Language Pathologists and Audiologists (ACSLPA)
British Columbia – College of Speech and Hearing Health Professionals of British Columbia (CSHHPBC)
Manitoba – College of Audiologists and Speech-Language Pathologists of Manitoba (CASLPM)
New Brunswick – New Brunswick Association of Speech-Language Pathologists and Audiologists (NBASLPA)
Newfoundland & Labrador – Newfoundland and Labrador Council of Health Professionals
Northwest Territories – Northwest Territories Health and Social Services Authority
Nova Scotia – Nova Scotia College of Audiologists and Speech-Language Pathologists
Ontario – College of Audiologists and Speech-Language Pathologists of Ontario (CASLPO)
Prince Edward Island – College of Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology Prince Edward Island
Quebec – Ordre des orthophonistes et audiologistes du Québec
Saskatchewan – College of Speech-Language Pathologists and Audiologists of Saskatchewan (CSASK)
Yukon – Yukon Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology Association
Learn more at Canadian Information Centre for International Credentials (CICIC). P.S., if a link is broken, please email julie@oztrekk.com!
What are course outlines and how should I submit them to OzTREKK?
A course outline includes all the necessary information about a university course. It will include the course title, the year, the learning goals, the professor’s contact information, reading materials and most important, a weekly learning schedule. This will help the universities to see what you studied on a week-to-week basis and assess if you have covered the material they expect you to know.
- Year and semester date
- Faculty contact information
- Course description
- Hours of study
- Textbook information
- Detailed list of topics that are covered in the course; usually found in a detailed lecture schedule or list of chapter readings
Please note, one-paragraph course descriptions will not suffice. The university would like to see course outlines like those handed out at the beginning of the semester, which outline all topics covered within the course. If you do not have copies of these on hand, contact the faculty from which you undertook these courses, as they usually have copies on file.
These course outlines must be attached to the email in PDF (do not send PDF links) and labelled in the following manner:
CAPS 391 Human Anatomy I UBC F2015 (COURSE CODE)(Name of Course)(University)(Semester & Year)
When you do this, it helps us be more efficient and move your application(s) at lightning speed.
What if my transcripts / documents are not in English?
If your documents are not in English, you must provide full translation of each document, either prepared by your university or by a registered translator. You must not translate the documents yourself.
Please note OzTREKK must receive the official translation directly from the university or translator in order to certify the document. Please read How Do I Send My Transcripts for more information.
Can I work as a speech pathologist when I return to Canada?
You should first contact the regulatory body of the Canadian province in which you plan to work upon graduation. It will be your responsibility throughout your studies to ensure you complete the proper requirements to practice in Canada.
You must be aware of the required speech pathology (major) and audiology (minor) clinical hours to practice in your province. Most programs OzTREKK represents with do not meet Canadian certification requirements “as is.” This means you will be required to arrange and undertake additional clinical and course hours as required to meet Canadian standards.
Visit Speech-Language & Audiology Canada (SAC) to familiarize yourself with their requirements for practice in Canada.
I don’t have all the prerequisites. Can I still apply?
Unfortunately, if you do not have the required prerequisites, you are not eligible to apply. If you are missing a course or two, you can enroll in those courses before applying and we will submit your interim transcript with your application. Otherwise, you are welcome to send in a course outline you feel covers the required content. If you’re unsure, please contact OzTREKK for details.
What is the competitive GPA for speech path programs?
Anything above a 75% cGPA is considered competitive for our speech pathology programs. If you have a cGPA of 70% or lower, we don’t recommend applying.
Australian Speech Pathology Student Reviews
What do OzTREKK students think about studying speech pathology in Australia? Read on!
“Lots of support from staff.”
Cohort is small and allowed me to make good friends. Lots of support from staff. Very hands on. But you feel like you're thrown in the deep end in the first semester. LOTS OF WORK. Lots of social events to meet people and get free stuff. People are friendly.
Lots of support from staff.
Cohort is small and allowed me to make good friends. Lots of support from staff. Very hands on. But you feel like you’re thrown in the deep end in the first semester. LOTS OF WORK. Lots of social events to meet people and get free stuff. People are friendly.
Master of Speech Pathology
Griffith University, 2023
Master of Speech Pathology
Griffith University, 2023
“The program keeps me busy…”
University is good so far. The program keeps me busy so I don't really experience the activities that the uni has to offer. It is actually quite intense. I would say that its quite different in terms of Canadian teaching styles. I would probably say [to future students] mentally prepare for a tougher program, and just make sure to make friends with your cohort. It's a small class and if you have friends, it makes school is more manageable, and the whole experience worthwhile.
The program keeps me busy…
University is good so far. The program keeps me busy so I don’t really experience the activities that the uni has to offer. It is actually quite intense. I would say that its quite different in terms of Canadian teaching styles. I would probably say [to future students] mentally prepare for a tougher program, and just make sure to make friends with your cohort. It’s a small class and if you have friends, it makes school is more manageable, and the whole experience worthwhile.
Master of Speech Pathology
Griffith University, 2023
Master of Speech Pathology
Griffith University, 2023
“I like the program.”
I like the program. Dislike some of the organizational aspects of the course and some difficulties with placement (not sure if this is just at my uni or others as well). I like the class size and approach with problem-based learning. Course delivery could sometimes be improved. Prepare yourself that work, social, and school can be tough to balance (the department recommends students not to work as the course is intense), be prepared that it can take a while to find a good group of friends.
I like the program.
I like the program. Dislike some of the organizational aspects of the course and some difficulties with placement (not sure if this is just at my uni or others as well). I like the class size and approach with problem-based learning. Course delivery could sometimes be improved. Prepare yourself that work, social, and school can be tough to balance (the department recommends students not to work as the course is intense), be prepared that it can take a while to find a good group of friends.
Master of Speech Pathology
Flinders University, 2023
Master of Speech Pathology
Flinders University, 2023
“[I like the] support from educators”
[I like the] support from educators, clinical opportunities, class size, and getting to meet people from different backgrounds.
[I like the] support from educators
[I like the] support from educators, clinical opportunities, class size, and getting to meet people from different backgrounds.
Master of Speech Pathology
Griffith University, 2022
Master of Speech Pathology
Griffith University, 2022
“I’ve had some incredible clinical educators that I’ve learned so much from”
I love it. It feels like a home away from home. There are so many services and activities offered, the facilities are lovely, I'm very pleased. I'm enjoying every minute. It's almost going by too fast! The staff are highly educated and supportive, they're approachable and kind. I'm also enjoying my clinical placements, I've had some incredible clinical educators that I've learned so much from and am so grateful for. I feel like I could talk for days about this!
I’ve had some incredible clinical educators that I’ve learned so much from
I love it. It feels like a home away from home. There are so many services and activities offered, the facilities are lovely, I’m very pleased. I’m enjoying every minute. It’s almost going by too fast! The staff are highly educated and supportive, they’re approachable and kind. I’m also enjoying my clinical placements, I’ve had some incredible clinical educators that I’ve learned so much from and am so grateful for. I feel like I could talk for days about this!
Master of Speech and Language Pathology
Macquarie University, 2019
Master of Speech and Language Pathology
Macquarie University, 2019
“They have a lot of resources and help for international students”
I like that they have tailored particular parts of the program to the Canadian students as we are the majority of our program. They have a lot of resources and help for international students at UQ. There are 'heaps' of other Canadians at UQ, especially in the health care professions.
They have a lot of resources and help for international students
I like that they have tailored particular parts of the program to the Canadian students as we are the majority of our program. They have a lot of resources and help for international students at UQ. There are ‘heaps’ of other Canadians at UQ, especially in the health care professions.
Master of Speech Pathology Studies
The University of Queensland, 2019
Master of Speech Pathology Studies
The University of Queensland, 2019
“Not only is the teaching staff great, but I have also found that the campus life at UQ is outstanding.”
I chose The University of Queensland to pursue my education because I have always wanted to study abroad and experience Australian culture in a fun and positive way. The University of Queensland stood out to me after I learned about the comprehensive content of my degree as well as the exciting campus life. I learned that UQ has a reputation built on research, and evidence-based-practice is something that is very meaningful to me. UQ pretty much checked off all the boxes in ter... Read More
Not only is the teaching staff great, but I have also found that the campus life at UQ is outstanding.
I chose The University of Queensland to pursue my education because I have always wanted to study abroad and experience Australian culture in a fun and positive way. The University of Queensland stood out to me after I learned about the comprehensive content of my degree as well as the exciting campus life. I learned that UQ has a reputation built on research, and evidence-based-practice is something that is very meaningful to me. UQ pretty much checked off all the boxes in terms of what I was looking for in a university!
I certainly enjoy the fact that all of my professors are passionate and kind people! Their skills and teaching techniques have blown me away, not to mention their experience and encouraging nature. Not only is the teaching staff great, but I have also found that the campus life at UQ is outstanding. There are always exciting gatherings and social events taking place around campus, and I find that UQ really does try and promote a healthy study and life balance.
I would most definitely recommend my degree at UQ to others. I find that UQ has provided me with expansive and relevant knowledge in my field already, and I’m only half way through my degree! The teaching staff are very welcoming and supportive, and they are with you 100% of the way. I appreciate how friendly everyone around campus is, and I’ve always felt right at home here.
Master of Speech Pathology Studies
The University of Queensland, 2019
Master of Speech Pathology Studies
The University of Queensland, 2019
“… the coordinators have been very accommodating for helping Canadian students”
UQ is beautiful, the teachers have been amazing, the curriculum is interesting, and the coordinators have been very accommodating for helping Canadian students keep on top of our placement hours. It's an AMAZING experience, I'm having a great time the school is better than I imagined and I felt comfortable right away, the transition was much easier than I had expected.
… the coordinators have been very accommodating for helping Canadian students
UQ is beautiful, the teachers have been amazing, the curriculum is interesting, and the coordinators have been very accommodating for helping Canadian students keep on top of our placement hours. It’s an AMAZING experience, I’m having a great time the school is better than I imagined and I felt comfortable right away, the transition was much easier than I had expected.
Master of Speech Pathology Studies
The University of Queensland, 2012
Master of Speech Pathology Studies
The University of Queensland, 2012
“UQ is a highly regarded university that has many international students”
UQ is a highly regarded university that has many international students. The professors are very accommodating and take all students opinions into consideration. University life is much more pleasant and enjoyable in Australia. People are very friendly, which makes moving to Australia quite easy, being away from home!
UQ is a highly regarded university that has many international students
UQ is a highly regarded university that has many international students. The professors are very accommodating and take all students opinions into consideration. University life is much more pleasant and enjoyable in Australia. People are very friendly, which makes moving to Australia quite easy, being away from home!
Master of Speech Pathology Studies
The University of Queensland, 2012
Master of Speech Pathology Studies
The University of Queensland, 2012
“The professors at UQ in the Speech Pathology program are wonderful”
I really like UQ's campus. It is absolutely beautiful and there's plenty of green space where you can sit and hang out. The professors at UQ in the Speech Pathology program are wonderful and most of them take an interest in you as a student. The University of Queensland is a wonderful university with a beautiful campus and is extremely advanced in terms of its use of technology (ie. Apple Computers in all the libraries and study rooms!). The program is really small, with a clas... Read More
The professors at UQ in the Speech Pathology program are wonderful
I really like UQ’s campus. It is absolutely beautiful and there’s plenty of green space where you can sit and hang out. The professors at UQ in the Speech Pathology program are wonderful and most of them take an interest in you as a student. The University of Queensland is a wonderful university with a beautiful campus and is extremely advanced in terms of its use of technology (ie. Apple Computers in all the libraries and study rooms!). The program is really small, with a class size of 28 students and we have all become extremely close. The program is great because it allows us to apply our skills right away starting in Semester 1 of year 1 when we begin our first clinic placement. It is a wonderful way to apply what we have learned so far, especially in the early stages of our studies.
Master of Speech Pathology Studies
The University of Queensland, 2012
Master of Speech Pathology Studies
The University of Queensland, 2012
“… hey help with hours for Canadian students”
Beautiful campus, great classmates, lovely how they help with hours for Canadian students! It's a great opportunity to study speech abroad and experience life in a new place.
… hey help with hours for Canadian students
Beautiful campus, great classmates, lovely how they help with hours for Canadian students! It’s a great opportunity to study speech abroad and experience life in a new place.
Master of Speech Pathology Studies
The University of Queensland, 2012
Master of Speech Pathology Studies
The University of Queensland, 2012
“… it’s a great learning experience and I’m so glad I’m here!”
I love how diverse it is and I find my program very interesting. I am not a fan of the humidity.... UQ is a beautiful campus, and it's huge! My program is very interesting, but pretty intense. All in all, it's a great learning experience and I'm so glad I'm here!
… it’s a great learning experience and I’m so glad I’m here!
I love how diverse it is and I find my program very interesting. I am not a fan of the humidity…. UQ is a beautiful campus, and it’s huge! My program is very interesting, but pretty intense. All in all, it’s a great learning experience and I’m so glad I’m here!
Master of Speech Pathology Studies
The University of Queensland, 2012
Master of Speech Pathology Studies
The University of Queensland, 2012
Speech Pathology Student AdvisorMeghan Publow
Traveller, nighthawk, social butterfly. Has a major sweet tooth. Loves tea, music, dogs. ESFP. #FOMO
Have questions about how your prerequisite courses stack up against physiotherapy program entry requirements? If you’ve got questions about studying physio, occupational therapy, chiropractic, audiology, or speech pathology, Meghan can help! She works one on one with students as they transition from starting their rehabilitation science applications all the way to their arrival in Australia.
Food: Tacos
Drink: Her own trademark (vodka, soda and peach schnapps)
Movie: Superbad , State of Play
Music: A little bit of everything! Country, classic rock, rap, top 40
Book: The Girl on the Train
Superpower: Healing
Email: rehabsci@oztrekk.com
Ask A Question
Ask us about your program of interest, or if you have a question about our services.
CONTACT US TODAY