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Are you considering studying in AUSTRALIA? Australia is a popular study abroad destination for international students as: Australia is home to top universities and offers an exciting and affordable lifestyle for students. The scenic beauty and the sea and sunshine are other factors in are some of the benefits of studying in Australia. It is no surprise that thousands of international students wish to study in Australia every year. Seven cities in Australia count among the 100 student friendly cities in the world.
After the US and the UK, Australia is the third most popular study abroad destination. The world-class universities, the various course choices, and the post-study work options are among the many benefits of studying in Australia for international students.In this comprehensive guide, we will cover all the important aspects of studying in Australia. Read further to learn more about the top reasons to study in Australia for international students.
Country Information – Benefits to be in Australia
Studying in Australia, Visiting Australia or moving for work to Australia, it’s a good place as:
- The climate of Australia varies due to changes in latitude, and a range of geographic features, but is the best for the Asians. Mostly similar to the Asian weather, it is suitable for students from Asia.
- If you decide to study in Australia, you won’t be bored, there is always something to do as there are so many beaches, places of interest and; lots of things to do in the country. This leaves Australia with a unique mix of different cultures, food, and interests. You will not learn about culture not only from Australians but from people from other countries and cultures too.
- No matter what part of Australia you move to, you will find a mix of restaurants, nightlife, shops, and sporting activities to keep you interested. The Australians love to visit art galleries, bars, concerts, and open-air markets–so you will always find something to entertain yourself with outside of class hours.
- Australia is a multicultural country and is also immensely popular with international students. In fact, Australia is the third most popular destination for overseas students in the world.
- A few reasons for international students to select Australia for studying:
- University rankings and reputations
- Wide range of courses and subjects
- Scholarships benefits for international students
- Best student friendly cities
- Working while studying or Gain work experience while you study
- Post study work–visa
- No language barrier
- Live and study in safety
- Employment opportunities
- PR process simple and easy
Details about Educational institutes, Colleges, Universities
Student have lots of institutions to choose from for education in Australia.
- Australia is famous for its universities. Australia has an excellent education system and is home to some of the world’s top universities, which is one of the benefits of studying in Australia for international students.
- An Australian degree from a top institute is recognized all over the world and greatly improves your chances of finding employment anywhere in the world. Australian universities are known for their academic reputation, research strength, employer reputation, infrastructure and facilities, and international student ratio.
- Many Australian universities figure in the top 100 world universities. Every year, Australian institutions dominate the top places in international rankings. The best universities in Australia are also among the very best in the world.
- Australian universities offer a wide range of subjects which give students the opportunity to study a combination of subjects. Some of the universities here have more than 700 course combinations. This provides an opportunity to study unique subjects and broaden your scope of study which is another of the benefits of studying in Australia for international students.
List of Top Australia Universities, but we cover major universities for you
- University of Sydney
- University of New South Wales
- University of Melbourne
- Monash University
- Australian National University
- University of Queensland
- University of Adelaide
- University of Western Australia
- Macquarie University
- RMIT University
- University of Technology Sydney
- Queensland University of Technology
- Deakin University
- Curtin University
- Griffith University
- Swinburne University of Technology
- Western Sydney University
- University of Wollongong
- La Trobe University
- University of South Australia
- University of Newcastle
- University of Tasmania
- Flinders University
- Charles Sturt University
- James Cook University
- Murdoch University
- Edith Cowan University
- University of New England, Australia
- University of Canberra
- Victoria University
- Southern Cross University
- Australian Catholic University
- Central Queensland University
- Bond University
- University of Southern Queensland
- University of the Sunshine Coast
- Charles Darwin University
- Federation University Australia
- University of Notre Dame Australia
- Torrens University Australia
- University of Southern Australia
Language Tests or Language requirements
Do I need to pass and ENGLISH LANGUAGE TEST to study in AUSTRALIA? Is the question you must be having in your mind. Let us make it clear and precise for you.
If your first language is not English, you’ll need to show excellent language proficiency to apply to a Australian university. Australian universities search for students who can independently communicate and understand the materials taught in lectures and consequently succeed in their studies.
There are various English standardized tests admitted at Australian universities. The IELTS is more common in Australia, but other standardized tests like TOEFL, PTE, OET, Duolingo and CAE are also accepted. When taking one of these exams, make sure to score high because language proficiency is not only a requirement to proceed with the application further but also adds points to your application.
It is mandatory for applicants from non-English native countries to demonstrate their English language proficiency skills to study higher education in Australia. The common English language proficiency scores accepted in Australia include IELTS, TOEFL, PTE.
- IELTS: IELTS is a commonly accepted English test all over the world. Nearly all Australian colleges and universities accept IELTS scores in order to assess an applicant’s proficiency in English. The average IELTS score required in Australia is generally between 6.0 to 7.5 (depending on the study level and program). The IELTS fees are quite lower, thus it is preferred by many international students over other tests. Almost all top universities are accepting IELTS scores so, international students are advised to go for IELTS as the English language proficiency test for the university they wish to apply to.
- TOEFL: TOEFL or Test of English as a Foreign Language is a popular test in Australia and is widely preferred by the majority of international students. The required score range of TOEFL ranges between 100 to 120 for internet-based tests (depending on the study level and program).
- PTE: Many universities in Australia do accept PTE scores due to its higher demand among international students. A few universities in Australia are accepting PTE. The minimum PTE score required in Australia is 65 and it may go beyond 80 depending on the course level.
- DUOLINGO: Duolingo is basically a test that generally acts as a tool to help international students improve their English language skills with help of listening exercises, multiple-choice questions, sentences, phrases, and flashcards.
- OET: OET or Occupational English Test Is for the health professionals. If you are looking to work in Australia in health sector this test is mandatory. And you need to have a B in each test components.
- CAE: CAE or Cambridge English (also known as C1 Advanced) is also an English proficiency test accepted in Australia. At least 185 in each of the 4 components is required.
VISA types and Its Understandings
A student visa is a type of visa required by foreign nationals to study and stay in Australia for the duration of their studies. A student who is not a citizen of Australia but wants to study in Australia requires an Australian Student Visa to fulfil this purpose. Any foreign student who enrols on a course lasting four months or more in Australia will require a student visa.
Type of Student Visa
1. Independent ELICOS Sector visa (subclass 570):
This visa is meant for those international students who want to stay in Australia to study a full-time English Language Intensive Course for Overseas Students (ELICOS). If a student has to undertake ELICOS as a prerequisite to another course, the student must apply under the subclass relevant to the principal course.
2. Schools Sector visa (subclass 571):
This visa is meant for those international students who want to stay in Australia to study a full-time school course. The course of study may be a primary school course, a secondary school course, including junior and senior secondary, or an approved secondary school exchange program.
3. Vocational Education and Training Sector visa (subclass 572):
This visa is meant for those international students who want to stay in Australia to study a full-time vocational education and training course, including Certificate I, II, III, and IV, Diploma or Advanced Diploma.
4. Higher Education Sector visa (subclass 573):
This visa is meant for those international students who want to stay in Australia to study a full-time higher education course, such as, a bachelor degree, graduate certificate or graduate diploma.
5. Postgraduate Research Sector visa (subclass 574):
This visa is meant for those international students who want to stay in Australia to do postgraduate research i.e., a Doctoral degree.
6. Non-Award Sector visa (subclass 575):
This visa is meant for those international students who want to stay in Australia to study either a non-award foundation studies course or another full-time course (or components of a course) that does not lead to an Australian award in Australia.
7. Foreign Affairs or Defence Sector visa (subclass 576):
This visa is meant for those international students who are sponsored by AusAID or Defence to study a full-time course of any type in Australia.
8. Student Guardian visa (subclass 580):
This visa is meant for those international students who want to stay in Australia: (1) as the guardian of an international student younger than 18 years of age studying in Australia on a student visa. (2) in exceptional circumstances, as the guardian of an international student over 18 years of age studying in Australia on a student visa.
Applying for Student Visa?
Understand the procedure and then only start the visa application process. Follow this step-by-step guide to applying for your student visa:
Eligibility Criteria for Australia Student Visa [Higher Education Sector visa (subclass 573)]: To be eligible for a visa to study in Australia you must fulfil the following conditions:
- You must have a valid passport.
- You must provide evidence of being enrolled in an eligible educational program in an authorized educational institution that is accredited by and registered with Australia’s Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS).
- You must provide an “Offer of Place” letter or a “Confirmation of Enrolment” (COE) certificate from the authorized educational institution confirming that you have been accepted for full-time study in their program.
- You must show proof that you have enough money to pay for your tuition fees, travel and living costs in Australia as well as for your return transportation.
- In case you have dependents, such as a spouse and children, you must provide proof of your financial ability so as to support their living costs, regardless of whether they intend to accompany you to Australia or not.
- You must possess appropriate English language proficiency, as is required for your course of study.
- You must have valid health insurance obtained through the Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for yourself as well as for your family members accompanying you to Australia.
- You must not have any outstanding debts to the Commonwealth of Australia. In case you have any debt, you must have made arrangements that are acceptable to the Minister to repay such a debt.
- You must be of good character and meet the health criteria. You must provide evidence of not having a criminal record.
Admission & VISA Application Process
Admission process explained in a simplified way.
- Apply for a school in Australia.
- Receive COE.
- Submit Visa application with fee.
- Schedule Visa Interview.
- Attend Visa Interview.
- Visa Approve or Decline.
1. Apply for a school in Australia
- Before you apply for a student visa you will need to apply for admission into the Undergraduate or Graduate program. Applications to different courses and universities in Australia can be made 4 times a year which include February, July, September and November.
- Application for admission can be submitted online atleast 4 months before the commencement of the course.
- Once you received notification of admission then you can proceed with visa application processes. Please note, a student visa may be issued no more than 90 days prior to the start date mentioned on your COE or OFFER LETTER.
2. Receive COE
- Now that you have been admitted you will receive a document called COE (Confirmation of Enrolment) from the institution’s international student office.
- You should have done your medical test for getting the COE from institution.
3. Submit Visa application
- Documents you will require for visa application details are already mentioned. Prepare all documents and submit VISA Application form.
4. Book your Biometric
- The next stage is to book or schedule a biometric session at the VAC and after that within three weeks you will get an email confirming you VISA interview.
- This VISA Interview appointment with the immigration authorities cannot be changed. You have to face the interview on given date and time and then wait for the results.
5. Attend Visa Interview
- Now is the time to attend the visa interview because without an interview you will not be given a visa even though you have met other requirements. The interview is the determinant of whether you will be given a visa or not so you need to prepare for it. You will need to keep all documents ready for the visa interview.
- Also, prepare the following documents: Financial capacity proof, Transcripts from previous school attended & Standardized test scores.
6. Visa Approve or Decline
- After the interview, they can either approve or decline your visa depending on your performance and how well you comply with the visa application process. Once you’ve completed all of the steps above and have received approval for an international student visa to Australia, your embassy will return your passport to you with your new visa in it.
VISA Processing Steps:
Before you start lodging your application for Australian Student Visa, you must check the Student Visa Program Assessment Levels to determine your assessment level. The assessment level is determined on the basis of your passport country and the course of study selected by you.
Step 1: Create an online application account: To apply for Student Visa you will have to create an online account at Immi Account, maintained under the Department of Immigration and Citizenship website.
Step 2: Login to the account, fill all the details perfectly and attach all the required documents. After carefully filling up all the details you will have to submit your application online along with the required visa application fee.
Step 3: When you submit your application, you will be provided a Transaction Reference Number (TRN). You must keep a record of this in order to follow the progress of your application. You can track and manage your application using the Transaction Reference Number (TRN). You will also be able to identify your application and communicate with the concerned officials with the TRN.
Step 4: Pay the Visa Fees after this and wait for the next step or the decision. As the fees is subject to change, please check properly before you pay your application fees.
Step 5: As part of your student visa application, you may need to submit more documents if required by the High Commission.
Step 6: Once you have the decision, you are all set to book your tickets, and fly to your destination.
Dos and Don’ts for Australia Student Visa Application: You need to remember the following dos and don’ts while applying for Australia student visa.
Dos
- Apply for a student visa at least 4 weeks in advance of your planned travel date to allow enough time for the application procedure to be completed on time for you to join your course.
- Remember that if you are applying online, you can only apply for your visa a maximum of 124 days before your course starts.
- Fill up your visa application form carefully with all accurate details.
- Submit all the required supporting documents along with your visa application form.
Don’ts.
- Do not present false documents for your visa.
- Do not hide or misrepresent facts in your visa application.
Financial requirements, Finances & Cost of Living
How much does it cost to study in Australia? If you are interested in studying in Australia, one of the most important things you need to consider is how much university is going to cost. These is the best of our knowledge but the figures are approximate and may vary due to AUD rates or other factors.
- How much are the tuition fees in Australia?
- How much does student accommodation costs in Australia?
- How much does it cost to live in Australia?
- What financial support is available to international students in Australia?
How much are the TUITION FEES in Australia?
- Australia is one of the most popular destinations for university study but, like the UK and the US, it is also one of the most expensive.
- However, regions differ greatly and it is worth exploring all avenues before ruling out the possibility of studying down u For example, international students can pay their fees well in advance of the term starting, which helps with budgeting during the school term.
- International undergraduate students can expect to pay anything between AU$18,000 and $45,000 (all figures noted are in Australian dollars). Undergraduate degrees last between three and four years in Australia.
- A master’s degree costs AU$22,000 – 50,000 as for PG degrees the costs are more for maximum of the colleges.
- Veterinary and medical degrees cost considerably more than this. BA in an arts subject cost AU$38,400 per year and a BSc in medical science is about AU$51,360 per year.
- The total average cost of studying in Australia is estimated to be at least (minimum) AU$48,000 per year. Depending on college fee and city, it may vary.
How much does the student ACCOMMODATION costs in Australia?
- A majority of international students in Australia look either for private residences or homestays. This is due to the reason that most of the universities in Australia have a limited number of dormitory arrangements for international students.
- The monthly accommodation cost for international students may vary between AU$600 to $1,800. This depends on the type of accommodation they choose for living.
- Another affordable option of accommodation for students in Australia is student halls of residence. This is the most beneficial option as it eliminates the pressure of sourcing food and paying for utilities.
- If students choose private accommodation, they get the liberty to either live alone or find flatmates to accompany them. Talking of homestays, these are the provisions where the students have to stay with a local family in Australia throughout the duration of their educational program.
How much does it cost to LIVE in Australia?
- International students in Australia will have to bear a cost between AU$1,800 to $3,500 per month for living expenses. This cost is estimated on the basis of the average cost of living for a couple (married student), whose expenditure stands at $5,118 per month. Hence, students must plan out their stay in Australia keeping these figures in mind.
- Australia has gained immense attention in the past few years due to its quality education and world-class universities. Australia is also comparatively cheaper when it comes to the cost of living and living standards.
- Transportation Costs: Students living on-campus and in remote areas are provided with private transport facilities by the universities. The students are given a monthly transport pass with a cost between AU$40 and $90, this transportation cost depends on the city in which the student lives. Another transportation option available for students is to rent a bicycle that will cost them between AU$35 and $60 per day.
- Food Expenses: The monthly average cost that is spent on food (including groceries) by international students in Australia usually varies between AU$600 and $1,300. There are even cheaper alternatives available for students in terms of food, these are the supermarkets which have less expensive food items. Restaurants and dining out can also be considered by the students as budgeted food options. Students can find a diverse range of food alternatives as Australia is the fusion of various cultures, which leads to ethnic diversity in the country, hence, leaving the students to choose from delicious and healthy cuisines. The average cost of a meal is generally about AU$25, and a three-course meal for two persons costs around AU$110.
- Entertainment Charges: Along with studies, the students need entertainment as it is necessary for their mental health. The beautiful beaches of the island continent, the great outback, and the diverse and enchanting flora and fauna can be good sources of entertainment for international students in Australia. Australia is known for its great surf culture, and adventure sports. Deep sea diving will fill you with immense thrill. While pursuing higher studies in Australia, you can explore the lush rainforests, which can give your mind the ultimate peace. If you love urban life, you get a lot in terms of entertainment. Students can find bars, clubs, lounges, and specialty restaurants during their stay in Australia. The monthly average for entertainment in Australia will cost the students approximately AU$350 while studying in Australia.
- Mobile & Internet charges: The mobile and internet connection, which can be availed by getting a SIM card is best. It is advisable for international students to purchase and use an Australian SIM card during their stay in Australia. Students can get prepaid and postpaid plans to choose from. Students can buy prepaid SIM cards from grocery stores and supermarkets. They require a simple set-up process. The other viable option is to get a contract or postpaid SIM card, this provides various options to students so that they can plan for the period of their study in Australia. The Internet plans are nearly similar to that of the mobile phone plans. The average mobile and internet charge, in Australia, is about AU$90 per month.
- Miscellaneous Living Expenses: Miscellaneous expenses are essential for living in the country. These expenses include the clothing and grooming and personal care expenses. Miscellaneous expenses will vary from student to student depending on what the item is he/she spending on. Therefore, the average miscellaneous expenses would amount to approximately $350 per month.
What financial support is available to INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS in Australia?
- Financial aid comes in many formats: Scholarships, Grants, Assistantships, and Work–Study Schemes. Some of these might be possible only for Australian citizens but there are many financial aid opportunities for international students too.
- Australian scholarships are more widely available at postgraduate level, with relatively few offered for undergraduate students. However, always check with your chosen university, as support is often available for exceptional undergraduate students.
Work Opportunities and Work environment
Currently, Australian immigration laws allow international students to be employed in the country during and after a course of study, but there are restrictions. If you want to work in Australia, you must plan ahead and familiarize yourself with the rules and regulations that accompany the immigration laws. Regulations change constantly, so you must be aware that even if you are offered an employment opportunity, you may not be legally able to accept it. Take time to look through the provided resources in order to better understand your position as an international student.
- Australia International Student Visa also allow students to work a maximum 48 hours per fortnight during the school term making it much easier for an international student to manage expenses in a foreign country.
- Extended post–study work rights will be available to international students who graduate with certain degrees linked to labour skills shortages in the Australian economy.
- International students in Australia on a valid student visa can work for up to 20 hours per week while school is in session, and there is no limit on the number of hours an international student can work during recognized school vacations. A work week in Australia is considered to be Monday through the following Sunday. Although they are allowed to arrive in Australia up to 90 days before their course begins, students are not allowed to begin working until after their courses have begun.
The 20-hour-per-week limit does not extend to any work the student is required to undertake as a component of his or her studies or training. Volunteer and unpaid work, however, does count towards the 20 hours. If an international student works more than the Australian restrictions allow, his or her visa may be cancelled.
Can I Bring My Relatives to Australia with My Student Visa?
Yes, you can bring your dependents to Australia under certain circumstances. Dependants are considered your married or unmarried partners and children (under 18 years old). To bring them along with you, you need to be:
- Enrolled as a full-time student on a postgraduate course.
- A government-sponsored student enrolled in courses longer than six months.
- A Doctorate Extension Scheme student.
- Submit proof of marriage or civil partnership for your partner.
- Birth certificate for children.
Your dependant can stay in Australia under these circumstances: Proof of sufficient funds to support themselves.
- Each family member must have sufficient funds in bank account to fulfil their needs and daily expenses.
- A newly introduced rule in the UK states that those dependants who submit an immigration application on or after 06 July 2018 will be allowed to work even if your degree course is nine months or longer.
Work Rules for Family Members of International Students
- Family members (spouses and children) accompanying the international student under their student visa have the same work rights as the student – 20 hours per week. Unlike the students, family members may not exceed 20 hours per week, even during holidays.
- For those students obtaining a graduate degree, like a master’s degree, their family can work unlimited hours. Like students, family members are not allowed to begin work until after the student has started his or her course.