Australia is one of the top destinations for students looking for an exceptional study abroad experience. This vast and beautiful country has a laid-back atmosphere and offers international students a world-class education and a high quality of life. However, in order to successfully complete their studies in Australia, international students need to pay special attention to the following points.
1. Confirm that your passport is valid
If your passport will expire within 12 months, it is recommended that you renew your passport before travelling to Australia. It is more difficult to renew your passport once you are abroad. Citizens with dual citizenship should travel with an Australian passport, but can use a foreign passport after leaving the country.
2. Apply for the necessary visas
All student visas in Australia are subclass 500. These include higher education visas; visas for vocational education and training (VET) and postgraduate programmes. If you have any visa or immigration-related questions, it is recommended that you start by referring to the Department of Home Affairs website.
To study in Australia, you will need to apply for an Australian student visa after receiving a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from your university. To receive a CoE, you must have an official offer from the university; accept the offer in writing and pay the tuition deposit. Once you have a visa, you can study in Australia for up to 5 years.
3. Check your medical and travel insurance
To study in Australia, you need a visa, and you need medical insurance to obtain a visa. International students must apply for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) and maintain their coverage for the duration of their stay. There are some exclusions in this health insurance plan, so some students choose to purchase additional coverage through a private insurance company. Currently, students in Belgium, Sweden and Norway are exempt from OSHC if they are covered by their own national health insurance plans.
OSHC does not provide insurance for your journey to or from Australia. It also won’t pay for your lost luggage, delayed flight or lost valuables, so it is recommended that you purchase additional travel insurance.
4. Open banking business
How would you transfer funds to Australia and access them locally? How will you pay your bills, start saving money or meet everyday expenses?
You can open a bank account online before departure, although many banks will still require you to visit a branch in person upon arrival. Other banks may handle credit cards, but without an Australian credit history you may not be eligible.
How to solve? You need to set up an overseas bank account in advance before departure and enjoy the worldwide benefits. This way you can get your bank account information, debit or credit card before you go.
5. Book flights and accommodation
Going to Australia is a long journey no matter where you start. Remember to book your flight in advance, as well as research accommodation arrangements. There are plenty of short- and long-term accommodation options in the city or suburbs.
Unlike in the US, it is not common in Australia for students to live on campus when they go to university. International students are more likely to rent apartments. These apartments are usually unfurnished and you must pay rent and utilities up front, and most likely a security deposit (bond).
6. Update mailing address
Once your accommodation is complete, you should ensure that any mail you need to receive when you travel abroad is sent to your new address in Australia.
7. Make budgetary costs
Australia is one of the most popular study destinations for international students and one of the most expensive countries. In addition to tuition fees, visa fees, airfare and accommodation, there may be other costs you need to save, such as mandatory medical insurance and optional (but recommended) travel insurance. In addition, new clothes, new furniture, reading materials and teaching materials are also included in the expenditure. Therefore, before going to study in Australia, it is necessary to formulate your budgetary costs.
8. Start saving
Once you have a budget, set yourself a savings goal so you can be prepared when you go abroad. Make sure your goals are realistic so you can get there by saving a little each month or cutting back where possible.
You can also apply for scholarships or grants in Australia before you arrive. The Australian Government awards $200 million in scholarships to international students each year. You can apply early and try out different kinds of scholarships that might add to your savings.
You can also save money with student discounts on cell phone plans, travel, clothing and entertainment, and more to help you meet your savings goals.
9. Start your job search
You may need some extra pocket money, why not try working part-time while studying in Australia? Full-time students with a valid student visa can work up to 40 hours per fortnight, and unlimited hours during school holidays. International students, like everyone else, are protected by labor laws and can earn at least the minimum wage. The current standard is $740.80 per week.
Students who plan to stay after graduation will need to apply for a work visa before their student visa expires.
10. Do a health check
Vaccinations may be required before you enter Australia, especially if you will be studying or working in a public health facility. Undergraduate and postgraduate students involved in clinical work in NSW must submit complete vaccination records. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Health Organization recommend that travelers to Australia get vaccinated against hepatitis A and B, rabies, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), chickenpox, and more.
11. Double check all materials
In the last few days before departure, make sure you have all relevant materials ready. This will include your passport, visa, driver’s license, vaccination records, air tickets, education records and any tax information.
You will need to show proof of payment and confirmation of your OSHC health insurance when you arrive in Australia, so remember to bring it with you when you arrive.
12. Make sure you are not carrying contraband (please double check)
Australia is notoriously strict about the control of imported contraband. Due to the geographical isolation, travelers cannot bring pests or diseases into the country, even if they inadvertently. Rumour has it that there are more than 20,000 items on the government’s list of “potentially harmful” items. What does this mean to you? Declare everything or face hefty fines. The most common prohibited items are fresh fruit, homemade food, raw nuts, eggs and dairy products.
