7 Things to know as an international student about studying in Australia

 

Celebrated as one of the sunniest countries and fastest advancing economies in the world, Australia has become a popular destination for international students. Its educational institutions have an impressive reputation.

 

If you have your heart set on studying in Australia, there are a few essentials to keep in mind – from ensuring that you have the right visa to striking a good balance between your studies and your social life.

 

1. Simplified Visa procedures.

Once you have been accepted to a university and a course of your preference, you can start preparing your visa application. Fortunately for all foreign students, the Australian government has simplified this procedure to a large extent. You just need to adhere to the new covid-19 rules and you'll be good.

 

2. Financing your study

Like some of the high-ranked universities in the UK, Australian education often comes at a high price. However, if you are eligible for any form of financial aid, you will be at an advantage to enjoy your stay in Australia. And there are lots of Scholarship Opportunities available for international students to apply for. Just do your research.

 

3. Studying dilemmas

Australia has a distinct culture of exchanging study notes and study guides in order to help new students adjust. It’s easily done online, where you can swap your own notes for someone else’s free of charge, and prepare for a difficult exam with the help of past students who have mastered the subject matter.

 

4. Lifestyle and culture

Australia’s warm, sunny weather is the perfect personification of its inhabitants’ sunny disposition. It is a very multicultural country, and you will find yourself surrounded by people of all backgrounds and interests. Trendy restaurants and cafes, museums and galleries, lush green parks, gardens and so much more make the country an exciting one to explore.

 

5. Weather

Because Australia is located in the southern hemisphere, it means that the seasons are opposite to those in Europe and the US. This implies that Australia’s spring will start just as the autumn leaves start to fall from the trees in Toronto, and you’ll likely be basking on the beach while many in Wales are wearing winter coats.

 

However, keep in mind that many corners of the country can get cold during winter months (that means July and August), so learn about the district you plan to go to, and pack your luggage to serve you in both seasons.

 

6. Work and Study

An Australian study visa allows you to work up to 40 hours a fortnight while your classes are in full swing, and you are free to work as much as you please during breaks, while your family members can do the same. Keep in mind that the minimum wage in Australia is A$17.70 per hour, and students can easily find work as tutors, in retail or in tourism.

 

7. Residence Permit

International students can stay in Australia after graduation. If they've completed their studies in metropolitan cities like Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, then they can get two years of post-study work visa, and in other regional areas, they can get three to four years post-study work visa.

 

To become a citizen, you have to complete a four-year lawful residence period. This simply means that, if you studied in Australia for two years masters, then obtained another two or three years post-study work visa, you have lawfully stayed in Australia for four years and are eligible to apply for citizenship.