Study in Australia
by Barbara Bellesi
G'day! If you've decided to study abroad, you'll be in good company if you choose Australia as your destination. Go for a semester, a summer, or a full year, and you'll discover what many students before you now know-the people, culture, and geography of Down Under offers an educational experience like no other. Whether you've come to Australia for the cosmopolitan life of Sydney, the incredible wildlife of the Outback, or the rich history of the Aborigines, you'll want to stay a while and take it all in.
Australia is an island continent that ranks sixth among the largest countries of the world. It is about the same size as the 48 contiguous U.S. states, but not nearly as populated-in fact, with only two people per square kilometer, Australia is noted for having the lowest population density in the world. More than 85 percent of Australians live within 50 kilometers of the ocean; after all, Australia's gorgeous coastline boasts more than 10,000 beaches.
Australia is known the world over for its educational system, particularly its universities, which have gained renown for their excellence in teaching and research. The universities in Australia offer great international flavor, too, as they are linked to institutions of higher education in more than 100 countries around the world. In fact, there's an excellent chance that your college or a neighboring college has a sister campus in Australia, allowing you to have the best of both worlds-the comfort of friends from home plus the excitement of making many more new friends in Australia.
There's plenty of academic programs for you to choose from, so you'll have no problems continuing with classes in your chosen major. However, when you travel to the other side of the world, you'll want to take a class or two in something that is unique to the culture of that country, and you'll certainly find something to your liking in Australia. Get up close and personal with dingoes, kangaroos, and koalas in the Outback. Take lessons on the didgeridoo from an indigenous Australian. Or study the librettos and composers of the arias that take flight in the sail-like Sydney Opera House.
Another reason that students flock to Australia for their study abroad experience is that they don't have to worry about learning a new language. But here's a word of caution: while English is the main language spoken Down Under, it can often seem like a foreign language, thanks to all the wonderful expressions that Aussies use, like "tucker and grog" for food and drink. No worries, mate-once you soak up the local culture, you'll be talking like a fair dinkum (real) Aussie in no time.
With so many things to do and see-and so many friendly people to do and see them with-it's easy to forget that you actually went to Australia to study! Find a way to fit in as much of Australia as you can during your semester or year abroad you'll find that your educational experience will be many times more rewarding.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are scholarships available?
Yes, a variety of scholarships are available for full-fee paying international students in Australia. You will find them offered by the government, education institutions and other Australian, international, and charitable organizations and foundations. The country's scholarships database provides an up-to-date list of opportunities.
Can I stay in the country after I have finished studying?
If you studied in Australia for less than two years, the country offers a way to work for up to a year after finishing your courses or degree under its Working Holiday program. Students who have at least two years of study in the country can apply for a temporary or permanent visa from Australia's Skilled Migration Program.
Can I work while I am studying?
Yes. International students can work part time, up to 20 hours a week, while taking a course. But you can't start working until the course has started. Students typically find jobs in industries such as hospitality, retail, and administration. Hourly wages range from $5-$13. Students who choose to tutor can earn more, about $35 an hour. Internships also are an option, and your university may place you in one where you can earn academic credit.
Do I have to speak the country's native language to study there?
English language skills are required to receive a student visa in Australia. You will need to demonstrate English proficiency.
What is the application procedure to study in this country?
Non-Australian citizens who plan to take courses for less than three months can apply for a visitor visa or a working holiday visa. If the period of study is more than three months, individuals must apply for a student visa through the Australian Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC). The benefits also include access to Australia's subsidized student health coverage and the ability to seek permission for part-time work, according to the Australian Education International, the international arm of the Australian Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations (www.studyinaustralia.gov.au). The visa will allow you to travel in and out of Australia during the period of your study.
What are the average tuition and living expenses?
University tuition, which must be paid upfront, ranges from $10,000-$16,000 (U.S. dollars) a year, depending on whether it's an undergraduate or postgraduate program and the type of degrees and courses. International students do not pay Australian taxes. You also may have to pay for other fees for use of sports facilities, libraries and as part of course laboratories, as well as for books and other course supplies. Vocational education and training ranges from $5,000-$16,000 annually. Students spend an average of about $275 weekly for housing, food, clothing, entertainment, travel and transportation, phone, and other costs, equaling about $10,000 annually.
What are the housing options available?
On-campus housing is available. The "homestay" option is where a student stays with an Australian family during their studies. Students also can stay in boarding hotels. Students spend about $100 a week on accommodations, and boarding hotels are the cheapest option.
What are the Visa application requirements?
The Australian Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) will award individuals a student visa only if the course is offered by an Australian education provider registered with the government to teach international students. For a list of those providers, visit the Commonwealth Register of Courses and Institutions for Overseas Students' Web site at cricos.deewr.gov.au. Wait until you have received a letter of offer or electronic Confirmation of Enrollment (CoE), then apply for the student visa. U.S. or Canadian citizens can apply online, and you need to have a valid passport, electronic CoE, and a credit card for the $140 visa cost. You can attain a student visa up to 12 weeks before the course begins, and the application is typically processed in five to 10 business days. You may also need to provide a health check or may be asked to provide additional information if during an interview with a visa officer.
What exams will I need to take to get into schools in this country?
To attain a visa, the IELTS is the only test required by the Australian Department of Immigration and Citizenship. Depending on the school and its location in Australia, admission requirements can vary.
