Moving into Australia to become an international student? Congratulations! You’ve made one of the rightest decisions you could ever make in your entire life. First of all, going into college and choosing the best university, degree, and country you’re going to study is crucial to the success of your college life. Your diploma and the knowledge you’ll get from your studies are, after all, your gateway to your successful career in the future.
Secondly, Australia is one of the most popular destinations to study for international students. With its cultural diversity, friendly locals, laid-back nature, and high-quality education, many international students are choosing to study in Australia. Aside from this, graduates from Australian schools are also, highly sought after due to Australia’s reputation forhaving an excellent education system.
If your heart is already set on studying in the Land Down Under, there are a few things you should know first as a to-be international student in Australia.
- Simpler paperwork procedure.Studying in Australia as an international student means that you will have to apply for a visa. But, there’s nothing to worry about it, the process for applying for it is now pretty easy. Once you have been accepted by a university in Australia, and you have chosen your preferred course to take in college, you can start preparing for your visa application. Good news for everyone who chooses to study in the country, the government of Australia had simplified the procedure by having all foreign students apply for one study visa category, the Student visa (Subclass 500). Application for a student visa is all done online and it is virtually linked to your passport. If you ever need help when applying, you can also always reach out to your university as they have staff that is familiar with the procedures and will be happy to offer you some guidance.
- Scholarships for international students.Though Australian education comes at a high price, many grants and scholarships are available in Australia to assist you financially with your studies. These financial aids are being offered by the Australian government, many public and private organizations, and education providers. If you are eligible for any financial aid or international scholarship, you can always consider applying to lower the cost of your studies. Also, remember that your financial stability is important for obtaining your visa.
- Lifestyle and culture.Australia is a very diverse country where you will find yourself surrounded by people of different cultures, backgrounds, and interests. Locals of the country are known to be warm and friendly, and everyone will likely be eager to offer you a helping hand whenever you need any help or advice regarding living in Australia. The cost of living in the country is considerably lower than the USA and UK, and it is generally affordable if you choose not to live in the central business district. There are many trendy restaurants and cafes, parks and gardens, and beaches and open spaces where you can laid-back and relax alone or with some companions.
- Student visa holders are allowed to work part-time in Australia. Working while studying is often an excellent way to minimize your expenses, and is also a great way to obtain experience and skills that are vital in your career. You are allowed to work for about 20 hours a week when your class is in session, with unlimited working hours during holidays. If you are taking up Masters and Ph.D., you are allowed to work in Australia with no limits in hours. Always consider whether working will affect your study as studying is still the main reason why you are in Australia.
- International health insurance.Australian citizens and selected visitors are entitled to Medicare, a healthcare scheme that provides free and subsidized treatments and healthcare support for eligible individuals in the country. As an international student, you are required to acquire Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) before you can apply for a student visa. This is organized as a precaution and a way to help you financially when faced with health issues when you are in Australia. Make sure to choose a package that is right for you and will include the medical condition that you have. As soon as you have selected your accommodation, locate the nearest hospital partner of your OSHC to get there immediately in case of an emergency. You wouldn’t want to pay for unnecessary bills while you are in Australia studying.
- Public transportation.Australia has a well-developed variety of public transportation in each of its states and territory. Options available in the country include buses, trains, trams, and ferries. Each state and territory in Australia has its own public transportation system, so you should look at the relevant state’s government website where you are living in to see the full range of services available, fares, timetables, and the cost associated with your transportation. Some states also have concession fares for international students, so ask around to obtain your proper transport cards.
- The upside-down seasons.The seasons in Australia are flipped, meaning that the country’s seasons are opposite than of the countries in the northern hemisphere like Europe and the United States. Keep in mind that many corners of the country can be really cold during winter (July to August), so do some research about the district you plan to go to and pack your luggage accordingly.
- Get used to a new grading system.Schools in Australia use letters to grade your work, so you must prepare for some changes in terms of marking in your new university. Most universities in Australia use HD (High Distinction), D (Distinction), C (Credit), P (Pass), and F (Fail) as their grading system.
