Roshan Ghimire
As one of the top three international destinations for international students where students can study abroad, alongside the United State of America and United Kingdom, Australia is fast becoming a popular and well liked international study terminal figure due to its safe environment, friendly people and multicultural society. As with any big decision, especially one that involves relocation to a foreign country, there are some things that you might wish to consider before coming to Australia. Organizing your studies in Australia from overseas can be stressful (it’s hard enough for domestic students to organize their applications and living arrangements). But it can be even more stressful when you’re disorganized and leave everything until the last minute — you may end up having to settle for an arrangement that you’re not happy with or, even worse, you may arrive in Australia completely unprepared.
Research about university
Before applying student visa into Australia it is necessary for you to find right institution and destination which can be helpful for you during study. By now you should have conducted all your research, decided on the right institution and course for you (taking the entry conditions into consideration) and made an application. Generally speaking, institutions don’t set specific deadlines for international student applications, but it is best to apply as early as possible (at least three months in advance) so you have time to organize a visa, flights and accommodation. Keep in mind that it can take a few weeks just to complete the application when you need to track down all the necessary supporting documentation and get certified copies made. You can apply through an education agent, at education fairs or directly to the institution through their website.
Proficiency in the English language
Competency in English language is probably the most important factor when planning your studies in Australia. If your ability in the English language is not extravagant, you may be advised to study in an English language school before starting your degree or program. In most cases, international students are required to take language proficiency tests (such as International English Language testing system IELTS and Person Test of English PTE) before they are allowed to enroll in certain programs. It is therefore crucial that you carefully examine the policies of your chosen institution in terms of English language testing and classes.
Cost of education
Cost of education is the most important factor which students needs to be aware very carefully. For many international students, the decision involving where to study will simply come down to cost. Tuition fees vary substantially from one school to another, ranging from anywhere between $3000 and $26,000 per year or more. If you need financial assistance, you may be able to select institutions that offer scholarships and study abroad loans. In other cases, you can fund your education through private foundations, companies, or your local government. You can also source money from grants, teaching assistantships or research assistantships.
Quality of education
Because of the panoptic range of programs and institutions available in Australia, determining the quality of any given institute and its programs can be quite challenging. The most expensive university may not necessarily be the best, nor is every course within a globally recognised university the same quality. This really does depend on your field of study.
ORGANISE YOUR OVERSEAS STUDENT HEALTH COVER (OSHC)
As a visa condition, the Department of Immigration and Boarder Protection requires all students holding temporary student visas to maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the full duration of their study in Australia.
ACCOMMODATION
As you plan your study in Australia, it’s important to consider what type of housing you’ll be most comfortable living in. You can stay in a host family, hostel, apartment, student halls, residential colleges, or private rental property. Remember, your home can have a serious impact on your education, health and overall well-being. While there can be a multitude of options, getting the right one can make your study experience in Australia a fulfilling one.
BOOK YOUR FLIGHT
Make sure you allow yourself enough time to settle in before classes start and that your arrival date coordinates with any international student orientation sessions and your accommodation check-in date. Once your flight is booked, also book your free airport pick-up if your institution offers this service.