Australia has seven of the top 100 universities in the world. By studying in Australia, you will receive a qualification that's recognized and sought after around the world.
Some education agents are encouraging international students to enroll into tertiary qualifications with almost a guarantee of obtaining permanent residency. Unfortunately it`s not true …
In reality, there is no such thing as a guarantee for permanent residency because immigration laws change all the time. The Australian Government constantly reform the law and makes updates of the skilled occupations that are needed in Australia. So how do you know that by the time you finish your study, your profession will be still on the list?
Rather than looking for a 'shortcut' to citizenship think about investing in your future and your English proficiency. Choose carefully your educational course and apply for a visa.
What are the requirements ?
To study in Australia you'll need to apply for both admission to an institution and also for a student visa from the Australian Government.
There are a number of steps you must go through including:
- Deciding on your preferred course and institution
- Submitting your application to the institution
- Receiving and accepting a Letter of Offer
- Receiving your electronic Confirmation of Enrolment (eCoE)
- Applying for your student visa
There is a range of entry requirements that you will need to meet both for you institution application and your visa application. This can include:
- Academic requirements
- English language requirements
- Evidence of funds to support your study
- Overseas student health cover
If you're already living or working in Australia, you may still be able to apply to study here as an international student.
There are various visas that you can apply for depending on your plans in Australia.
- Student visa (subclass 500)
- Student Guardian visa (subclass 590)
- Training visa (subclass 407)
- Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485)
- Visiting and studying
- Post study work arrangements
Some student visa applicants may need to provide the results of an English language test with their visa application
Where evidence of English Language is required, the following minimum English language test score from the following providers will be accepted
| English language provider test | Minimum test score | Minimum test score where combined with at least 10 weeks ELICOS | Minimum test score where combined with at least 20 weeks ELICOS |
| International English Language Testing System (IELTS) | 5.5 | 5 | 4.5 |
| *Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) paper based | 527 | 500 | 450 |
| TOEFL internet based test | 46 | 35 | 32 |
| Cambridge English: Advanced (Certificate in Advanced English) | 162 | 154 | 147 |
| Pearson Test of English Academic | 42 | 36 | 30 |
| Occupational English Test** | Pass | Pass | Pass |
If you are a student visa holder, you and your dependent family members have permission to work included with your visa.
You are permitted to work a maximum of 40 hours per fortnight when your course is in session, and unlimited hours when your course is not in session.
Work that is a formal registered part of your course is not included in the limit of 40 hours per fortnight.
Voluntary, unpaid work, is not included in the limit of 40 hours per fortnight.
Source: Department of Immigration and Border Protection
