Studying in Australia
01 Why study in Australia?
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When people think of Australia, they see wide open spaces of outback bush, kangaroos, koalas, and clean air and water. Australia has much more to offer than the usual expectations. Many international students are choosing to study in Australia because of its friendly, laid-back nature, excellent education system, and high standard of living.
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Australia is currently the third most popular destination for international students in the English-speaking world, behind the United States and the UK. Many international students choose to study there because of the cultural diversity, friendly natives, and high quality of education. The major universities here welcome international students, and provide programs and services that are tailored toward helping study abroad students make the most out of their educational experience.
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Despite being such a small nation, Australia is well known as being home to some of the best research institutions on Earth. High quality academic programs in science fields, like nursing and healthcare, chemistry, biology, zoology and wildlife, mathematics, technology and engineering are found in a great number of Australia’s major universities. As the educational degrees obtained here are recognised all over the world, this makes a study abroad program in Australia a valuable addition to every student’s professional resume.
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Australia’s standard of living is amongst the highest in the world. Living expenses and tuition costs are considerably lower in Australia than they are in the United States and United Kingdom. International students are able to work part time while they study, allowing them to offset their living costs. There is also the possibility of scholarships, which helps to lower the cost of studying for international students.
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Institutions in Australia offer a wide variety of courses and degrees, so international students can easily find the school and field that are right for them. The first decision international students have to make when choosing a degree program is which school caters most to their needs and interests. Students can choose between universities, vocational education, and English language training. If necessary, it is easy for students to move between one qualification level and from one institution to another.
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One of the most appealing aspects of Australia for international students is the emphasis on scientific research. Australia is at the forefront of new technology and innovations. Students who study in Australia can take advantage of the country’s impressive technology and resources.
International students are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week while studying in Australia. This is a great opportunity for those who want to earn money to offset living expenses during their stay, and for students who want to gain work experience in their field of interest while they study. Find out some important things to keep in mind for the working student in Australia.
02 What is it like living in Australia?
Australia is a land of diversity and culture. Living in a new country can be very different and your lifestyle is likely to change. To help you adapt to Australia specifically, we have compiled resources detailing what life in Australia is like:
For international students from Europe and North America, the climate in Australia may take some getting used to, as the Australian seasons are opposite to those in Europe and North America. The climate in Australia varies widely depending on the area, as Australia consists of a variety of environments: from beaches to deserts to grazing lands to coral reefs.
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Australia is an extremely culturally diverse country. It is varied in its religion, language, history, and art. International students who study in Australia will find themselves studying in a fascinating and diverse environment.
One of the first things international students will have to determine when preparing to study in Australia is where to live. The majority of Australian students live off-campus through homestay programs, in hostels, or rental properties. However, some Australian universities provide housing options, which allows international students to socialize with local students.
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Australia is an extremely large country, making transportation very important. The public transportation system is very efficient, and international students should always be able to get to where they need to go, whether by bus, train, rideshare, bike, or plane.
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Tuition in Australia is generally less expensive than tuition in other countries like the United States or United Kingdom, but it is still important for international students to budget and be careful with their finances.
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The Australian Government allows people who are not Australian citizens or permanent residents to study in Australia. There are several requirements that must be fulfilled. Find out which forms you need and where to obtain them.
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03 What programs are available?
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The Australian system offers the international student many options to pursue, from ESL programs to graduate degree programs. Australia also has very strong vocational and technical programs through the Technical and Further Education (TAFE) system. Here is a list of the most popular types of programs offered;
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ESL - English as a Second Language
Almost 20% of all international students who come to Australia enrol in an intensive ESL program (known in Australia as ELICOS) to improve their English. This number increases as students choose the multicultural atmosphere of Australia to learn English.
There are hundreds of institutions that currently offer English language programs and they vary by school. Programs cater to all levels, from beginner to advanced, and there are normally no admission requirements. Students will also take an ESL program as a foundation for their undergraduate studies in Australia.
Normally students take the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) to indicate their level of understanding of English. In Australia, the International English Language Testing System (IELTS)is preferred by many institutions.
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Undergraduate / Graduate Degrees
There are 40 registered universities in Australia offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. These programs fall under several categories:
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VET - Vocational Education and Training
Australia's VET system, called TAFE (Technical and Further Education) is a network of institutions that offer programs that are both practical and career-orientated. These programs enable students to begin their career path with study and work all rolled into one program. The main benefit to employers of VET graduates is that they know the individual has practical, work place experience as well as the theoretical background. International students sometimes use TAFE/VET programs to enter Australia and increase their chances of becoming permanent residents.
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Study Abroad
Studying Abroad can be an excellent way to learn and experience a new culture and education system, without fully enrolling for a full degree. Through special arrangements, you could spend a semester or full year at an institution in replace for time at your school in your home country.
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Private/Specialised Colleges
There are many colleges in Australia that offer diplomas, or certificates in most every area of study. These private/specialized colleges vary in price depending on the school but they all basically offer program that can range from 3 months to 3 year. Credits from these courses may be able to be transferred to universities, but this it dependent on the college and its relationship with Australian Universities.
04 How to apply?
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General student visa eligibility requirements include the below (requirements may differ according to the type of visa);
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Be enrolled in a course of study and provide evidence
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Meet English language requirements
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Have adequate health insurance
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Meet general health requirements
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Have not held a certain visa, not have had a visa cancelled or a previous application refused
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Have enough money for your stay
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Do not owe any outstanding debt to the Australian government
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