Australia – FAQ’s

Do you want to study abroad? Are you hoping to secure a significant scholarship or study grant? Studying in Australia requires a lot of planning and preparation which can be a complex, time-consuming and expensive undertaking. StudyOverseasNow.com are overseas education consultants that specialize in providing expert advice throughout the consultation and application process. We help students secure the best scholarships at the highest ranked universities. Book a FREE Consultation with an experienced education & career counsellor to find out what overseas study options are available. 

WHAT IS THE COST OF A STUDENT VISA?

The cost of a student visa is $650. A student visa should last for the duration of studies. This information should be visible on all paperwork provided by the institution. If students do not complete the program in the required time, an additional fee may be required to extend their student visa.

CAN STUDENTS BRING A DEPENDENT {S} WITH THEM?

Students can bring dependants with them; however, students must ensure the level of their course and program length allows them to bring dependants with them.

CAN UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS BRING A DEPENDENT{S} WITH THEM?

Yes.

WHAT IS THE COST FOR A DEPENDENT{S} VISA?

The primary dependant visa will cost $485 for an over 18 and $160 for under 18. Multiple dependants and children will incur additional fees. If the primary applicant brings children who require schooling additional finances may be required to cover these costs.

CAN A STUDENT WORK PART-TIME WHILST STUDYING?

Students should check the terms and conditions of their visa. The length of study may determine if a student is eligible. The number of hours permitted to work may vary depending on key semester dates and holidays. Students must prioritise their studies over part time work. Managing part time work and full-time studies can be challenging. The number of hours a student can work in Australia is unlimited at present but this is likely to go down to 40 hours per fortnight during semester and unlimited during holidays.

WHEN CAN A STUDENT APPLY FOR AN AUSTRALIAN STUDENT VISA?

It’s best to apply for a student visa as early as possible. This will ensure all documentation arrives on time. A delay can lead to students having to defer their studies until the next available intake. The earliest students can apply for a student visa is 124 days before their course starts {about 4 months}.

IS THERE A STREAMLINED VISA PROCESS FOR INDIAN CITIZENS?

No. However, there are additional services which VFS-Australia offer.

WHAT IS THE LIKELIHOOD OF A VISA REJECTION & ELIGIBILITY FOR A REFUND?

A noticeable increase in student visa rejections has been evident in recent months / years. Students should furnish the correct documentation when applying for a visa and invest the necessary time and effort in their SOP {Statement of Purpose} and financial documentation. A student’s financials and ties to their country of origin play a significant factor during the decision-making process. Students who receive a visa rejection will need to declare this when applying to any country for any visa. If students receive a visa rejection a full refund of tuition fees will be provided. However, the cost of the student visa will not be refunded. Please note, some universities may withhold an application fee.

DO STUDENTS HAVE TO PROVIDE PROOF OF FUNDS TO COVER TUITION FEES AND MAINTENANCE COSTS?

Students must demonstrate they have access to the necessary funds to pay for their studies and living expenses. It is common practice for all immigration departments and universities to request documentation to demonstrate how they intend to pay for the following: Tuition fees, Maintenance / living costs & Return flight tickets

CAN STUDENTS APPLY FOR A POST-STUDY WORK {PSW} VISA FOLLOWING COURSE COMPLETION?

In most cases, students can remain legally in country for a set {defined} period of time. The duration of stay back will vary depending on the student’s location, the course studied and the length of study.

WHAT IS THE COST FOR A POST-STUDY WORK VISA?

The amount required is $1,730.

CAN STUDENTS STUDY ENGLISH PRIOR TO COURSE COMMENCEMENT?

Students can study English before commencing their primary course. This is typically referred to as a “Packaged Offer”. However, students studying pre-sessional English programs are more likely to obtain a visa rejection. The cost of studying English in Australia is considerably more expensive than studying in India.

WHAT ENGLISH TESTS ARE PERMITTED TO MEET VISA & UNIVERSITY REQUIREMENTS?

The English test is dependent on immigration guidelines and a universities admissions process / requirements. Some universities may accept “medium of instruction” if a student completes their high school or undergraduate program in English. Students should consult with StudyOverseasNow.com or the university to establish if MOI is accepted. Australia accepts the following tests, IELTS, TOEFL, CAE, PTE and OET.

WHAT IS THE TAX-FREE INCOME ALLOWANCE IN AUSTRALIA?

All persons residing in Australia are afforded a tax-free allowance. This means students are sheltered from tax up to a certain limit. The amount can change throughout the year and StudyOverseasNow.com advises all students to retain the services of a qualified accountant before lodging their taxes. At present, the tax free allowance is: $18,200 per annum.

WHAT IS THE AVERAGE HOURLY PAY IN AUSTRALIA?

The amount varies depending on location, time of year and supply vs demand. Students are unlikely to be offered a professional job whilst studying fulltime. The rates in the retail and hospitality industry range from $18-22 per hour.

WHAT IS THE AVERAGE GRADUATE STARTING SALARY?

The amount will vary significantly based on a student’s qualification level. In addition, pay will differ depending on the skills and area of study. Typically, students graduating from a STEM {science, technology, engineering, and maths} pathway will receive a higher remuneration package than those graduating from other fields. However, the average starting salary in Australia is $64,455.

WHAT IS THE COST OF PRIVATE HEALTH INSURANCE AND IS IT MANDATORY?

Students are required to apply for health insurance prior to arrival. Ensuring students have adequate medical provision will protect against significant costs associated with any medical care required. The average cost of health insurance per annum is $400 – 500 per year.

WHAT IS THE AVERAGE LENGTH OF AN UNDERGRADUATE DEGREE?

This varies depending on credit provided to a student and the area of study. For example, law and engineering are typically longer in duration than an Arts or Business program. However, the average length of an undergraduate degree in Australia is three years.

WHAT IS THE AVERAGE LENGTH OF A POSTGRADUATE PROGRAM?

This varies depending on credit provided and the area of study. Students who have completed an honours degree or gained work experience might expect a shorter duration of study. However, the minimum length of a postgraduate degree in Australia is two years.

WHAT IS THE PUNISHMENT FOR A STUDENT VISA OVERSTAY?

Students should notify the immigration department as soon as they become noncompliant from a visa perspective and notify their education provider immediately. Significant penalties apply for visa overstays which include a three year travel ban to Australia.

CAN STUDENTS CHANGE EDUCATION PROVIDER UPON ARRIVAL?

Ideally, students should be clear on the institution they wish to study at and conduct adequate research prior to acceptance. Any subsequent changes could lead to questioning from immigration officials. However, if a student would like to change provider, they can providing they complete at least 6 months at their principle provider and on the principle course prior to changing institution. If students are studying English or diploma, they need to be studying bachelor in year two before changing.

WHAT IS THE POPULATION OF AUSTRALIA?

26 million.

HOW MANY UNIVERSITIES ARE BASED IN AUSTRALIA?

There are 43 universities in Australia and several private institutions.

WHAT DOES “CERTIFIED COPIES” MEAN?

A certified copy is an original or photocopy of a document that has been signed, stamped and / or witnessed by a pre-approved government authority stating its authenticity. Signatures should appear on the front of each page. In most cases, an approved education agent can provide certification.

CAN STUDENTS CLAIM CREDIT FOR PREVIOUS STUDIES?

Student may qualify for credit based on previous studies and / or professional experience. Typically, 50% of a course is the maximum amount of credit students can apply for. Students should be aware that lowering the amount of study time can impact their ability to remain in Australia following course completion.

DO STUDENTS NEED TO ARRANGE ACCOMMODATION PRIOR TO ARRIVAL?

StudyOverseasNow.com recommends all students organise accommodation prior to arrival. Accommodation can be arranged short-term whilst a more long-term option is sought. However, short-term rentals are more expensive and can cause unnecessary stress before course commencement. Please note, immigration officials may request a residential address prior to arrival. If students cannot furnish the necessary documentation this could lead to visa rejection.

ARE THERE HALAL OPTIONS IN RESTAURANTS, SUPERMARKETS AND AT UNIVERSITY?

Australia is a multi-cultural society and people of all faiths and backgrounds coexist peacefully. Students will find options available to them in major cities, and towns. Limited options / choices may exist in rural / regional communities.

ARE STUDENTS REQUIRED TO ATTEND ORIENTATION?

StudyOverseasNow.com recommends all students attend orientation. Orientation is an opportunity to meet with classmates, join clubs and societies and learn key information about the university and area of study. During orientation {O’Week} students can receive help opening a bank account, registering at a doctor’s surgery and signing up for other important services. Students may find it difficult to integrate if they do not attend orientation or arrive late.

CAN STUDENTS STUDY PART-TIME?

No. Students are required to study full-time. This is defined as a minimum of 15 hours per week of study. Failure to comply with this rule could result in a breach of visa conditions and possible deportation.

HOW MUCH CASH SHOULD STUDENTS BRING WITH THEM?

Unlike India, most places of business will accept debit / credit card. StudyOverseasNow. com does not recommend students carry large amounts of cash with them. Money should be deposited in a bank and accessed via card payments. Please note, Amex cards attract a higher fee and a minimum spend is usually required. If students arrive in Australia with an amount greater than $10,000 in the local currency they have to declare this to an immigration official upon entry.

SHOULD STUDENTS LIVE IN HALLS OF RESIDENCE {HOR}?

Students travelling overseas for the first time would benefit from a HoR experience. Most HoR are situated on-campus making it easier to get to and from class. Students will have the opportunity to join clubs, societies, gyms and extracurricular events. Most HoR have full-board options available where meals are provided as part of their package. The majority of HoR students find it easy making friends as they are surrounded with like-minded students in a similar environment. HoR can be a little more expensive than living off-campus; however, students will save time and money on transport and other associated costs.

WHAT IF A STUDENT FAILS A CLASS / UNIT / SUBJECT?

Students will need to retake exam{s}, unit{s} or subject{s} they fail. Students will need to pay for the cost to retake. In addition, the student visa may require extending to clear any backlogs. Students should do everything possible to limit any fails / backlogs. Failing a subject can prove costly and time consuming. If a student fails too many units / subjects, their student visa may be revoked.

SHOULD AUSTRALIA’S WEATHER PLAY A FACTOR WHEN LOOKING FOR STUDY OPTIONS?

A student’s primary motive should be their studies and career goals. However, large parts of Australia can register below 10 Celsius during winter months and +45 Celsius during summer months. Students should consider these factors if adverse to extreme weather; be it hot or cold.

ARE STUDENTS GUARANTEED A JOB AND / OR BUSINESS VISA FOLLOWING COURSE COMPLETION?

No. Some universities will help students with internships and have established links with employers; however, no university can guarantee a full-time job or provide business visas. Students hoping to study overseas should be sceptical if they receive information to the contrary.

WILL MY QUALIFICATION FROM AUSTRALIA BE RECOGNISED GLOBALLY?

Yes. Institutions which StudyOverseasNow.com represent will be recognised internationally following course completion. Some programs / areas that require accreditation; for example, law, project management, engineering and actuary studies are dependent on the university having the appropriate accreditation through an official / designated awarding body. Speak to StudyOverseasNow.com to find out if the university or area of study provides accreditation.

DO AUSTRALIAN INSTITUTIONS ACCEPT THE INDIAN 10+2+3 EDUCATION SYSTEM?

Most countries have postgraduate options available to students who have completed the standard education system in India. Some universities / countries may provide direct entry whilst others offer a postgraduate certificate / diploma. High ranking universities may request a lengthier undergraduate degree or an internationally recognised high school qualification. Universities may require the completion of a college aptitude test; for example, ACT, GMAT, SAT, GRE, LSAT etc.

DO STUDENTS NEED TO ATTEND A MEDICAL EXAMINATION?

Yes.

DO STUDENTS NEED TO OBTAIN A POLICE CERTIFICATE FOR VISA PURPOSES?

No.

DO STUDENTS NEED TO PROVIDE THEIR BIOMETRIC DETAILS? No. CAN A STUDENT APPLY FOR A VISA IN COUNTRY?

Yes. However, in most cases, StudyOverseasNow.com advises all students to apply for a student visa offshore. Applying onshore as a tourist could lead to questioning from the immigration department as to the nature of such a change. However, Australia does allow students to apply onshore.

WHEN CAN STUDENTS ARRIVE IN COUNTRY BEFORE THEIR STUDIES COMMENCE?

Students should arrive no more than 90 days prior to course commencement.

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I hope you found the information in our blog useful. StudyOverseasNow.com are overseas education consultants that specialize in providing expert advice throughout the consultation and application process. If you would like to study abroad and hope to secure a significant scholarship or study grant Book a FREE Consultation with an experienced education & career counsellor to find out what overseas study options are available. We look forward to helping you start your journey to a brighter future!