Many international students choose to pursue their language courses, degree and postgraduate programmes in Australia not only for the quality of the education received, but also because of the relatively lower cost involved as compared to studying in the US or UK.
Choosing a course
Universities are ranked by their overall performance and by individual programmes. Australian universities are world-renowned for their teaching, research and facilities. Under the Vocational Education and Training (VET) system, international students can apply to study at Technical and Further Education (TAFE) institutions, private colleges and selected universities - attaining qualifications ranging from certificates to advanced diplomas.
Many Australian universities have representatives or agents in Asian countries such as China, India, Singapore and Malaysia. IDP, an education services provider funded by a coalition of Australian universities, organises Australian universities' open-days in various cities; such events are great opportunities for you to speak with representatives from the universities.
Some Australian universities also have campuses in other countries. Monash University (Melbourne, Victoria) has a campus in Malaysia, while the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT) has campuses in Vietnam.
Applying to Australian institutions
International students whose first languages are not English are expected to undergo English tests such as the International English Language Testing Systems (IELTS) or Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) examinations.
If you do not make the basic entry requirement for an undergraduate programme, you could undertake a foundation course, which most universities offer for international students.
Tuition fees are chargeable on a per semester basis and are expected to increase on a year on year basis. The average cost of a non-technical and scientific programme would average at $10,000 per semester. For technical programmes such as engineering or medicine, students can expect to pay between $12,000 – $15,000 per semester.
Moving to Australia
Once you have applied for your visa, you can start looking for suitable accommodation for your education in Australia.
Student lodges such as Unilodge offer six-months to a year’s lease, and are usually located near to major Australian universities. International students can take on a short lease in these lodges, and proceed to look for suitable accommodation when they arrive in Australia.
Making the most of your time in Australia
While studying hard for your course, it is also important to also spend time understanding the city, its people and the Australian culture. International students can work and travel around Australia, allowing students to make the most of their stay.
International students whose visas are granted after April 2008 are automatically granted working rights of up to 20 hours per week during their school semesters, and full time during official school holidays.
To ensure you are working legally, you need to apply for a Tax File Reference number through the Australian Taxation Office.