Study in Australia

Preparing for Studying in Australia

Australia is one of the most popular study destinations in the world, offering high-quality education, a multicultural environment, and great work opportunities for international students. Whether you’re going for a degree, exchange program, or vocational training, planning ahead will help you settle in smoothly and make the most of your time.

This guide covers key steps before you arrive, visa requirements, money matters, and tips for adapting to life in Australia.

1. Choose Your Course & Institution Wisely

Australia has 43 universities and many vocational education providers (TAFE and private colleges). Popular study areas include:

  • Business & Management
  • IT & Computer Science
  • Engineering & Construction
  • Health Sciences & Nursing
  • Education
  • Design & Creative Arts

Tips:

  • Check that your school is on the official Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS): https://cricos.education.gov.au.
  • Look at graduate outcomes, location, cost of living, and work opportunities.
  • Some regional universities offer migration incentives and scholarships.

2. Apply for Admission

Most universities and colleges accept applications online.
You’ll need:

  • Passport copy
  • Academic transcripts and certificates
  • English language test results (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE)
  • Statement of purpose or personal statement
  • Resume/CV (for postgraduate courses)
  • Portfolio (if required for creative courses)

⚡ Application deadlines:

  • Semester 1 (Feb/Mar): Apply by October–December.
  • Semester 2 (July/Aug): Apply by March–May.

Some institutions have rolling admissions, but apply early to secure a place and arrange your visa.

3. Get Your Student Visa (Subclass 500)

The Student Visa (Subclass 500) lets you stay in Australia for the duration of your course.

Steps to Apply:

  1. Receive a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from your school after acceptance.
  2. Create an account at https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au.
  3. Complete the online visa application.
  4. Upload documents:
    • Passport
    • CoE
    • English test results
    • Proof of funds (see below)
    • Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
    • Statement of Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE)
  5. Pay the visa fee (AUD $710 in 2025).
  6. Attend medical check if requested.

Proof of funds:

  • Tuition + AUD $29,710 per year (living costs) + travel costs.
  • Bank statements, loan letters, or scholarships can be used.

Processing time: Usually 1–4 months (apply early).

4. Organise Health Insurance (OSHC)

All international students must have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire stay.
Popular providers: Bupa, Medibank, Allianz, nib.

💡 Buy OSHC before your visa is granted — you’ll need the policy number in your application.

5. Plan Your Finances

  • Tuition fees: AUD $20,000–45,000 per year (varies by course & level).
  • Living costs: ~AUD $25,000–30,000 per year (higher in Sydney/Melbourne).
  • Part-time work: Allowed 48 hours per fortnight during study and full-time during breaks. Minimum wage is ~AUD $24/hour (2025).

Budget for:

  • First semester tuition
  • Rent (AUD $180–400/week)
  • Bond/deposit (usually 4 weeks rent)
  • Transport (AUD $30–60/week)
  • Food (AUD $80–150/week)
  • Utilities & internet

6. Find Accommodation

Options include:

  • On-campus housing: Convenient but competitive.
  • Shared apartments or houses: AUD $150–350/week.
  • Homestay: Live with an Australian family (AUD $250–350/week including meals).

💡 Start searching early on UniLodge, Flatmates.com.au, or Facebook groups. Read rental agreements carefully.

7. Prepare for Life in Australia

Climate & Clothing

  • Australia has varied climates — pack for your city (e.g., Sydney mild, Melbourne changeable, Brisbane warm and humid).

Transport

  • Most cities have student discounts on public transport (Myki in Melbourne, Opal in Sydney, Go Card in Brisbane).

Mobile & Internet

  • Cheap SIM plans from Optus, Telstra, Vodafone, and providers like Amaysim or Boost Mobile.

Banking

  • Open an Australian bank account online before arrival (Commonwealth Bank, ANZ, NAB, Westpac).
  • Get a debit card and link it to PayID for easy payments.

Safety

  • Australia is safe, but follow basic precautions (lock doors, beware scams).
  • Emergency number: 000.

8. Working While You Study

  • Your student visa lets you work 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during breaks.
  • Jobs: retail, cafes, hospitality, tutoring, admin, delivery apps.
  • Some courses include internships or work placements — great for gaining local experience.

9. Scholarships & Financial Aid

  • Check your university’s international scholarships.
  • Australian government scholarships include:
    • Australia Awards (for students from developing countries)
    • Destination Australia (regional universities)
    • Research scholarships (for postgraduate students)

10. Settling In & Support

  • Most universities have orientation programs to help you make friends and learn campus life.
  • Join student clubs, cultural groups, and professional networks.
  • Access free counselling, academic help, and career services.

Quick Pre-Departure Checklist

  • Offer letter & Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)
  • Student visa (Subclass 500) granted
  • Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
  • Proof of funds & accommodation arranged
  • Flights booked & airport pickup planned
  • Important documents: passport, transcripts, English test results
  • Australian bank account opened (optional but helpful)
  • Weather-appropriate clothes & adapters (AU uses Type I plugs)

✅ Bottom Line

Studying in Australia requires planning for visa, health insurance, housing, and finances. Apply early for your student visa and arrange OSHC, proof of funds, and accommodation before you arrive. Once there, take advantage of orientation, part-time work opportunities, and university support services to make the most of your experience.