Last week, I highlighted why higher education degree in Australia is so relevant and with the times now. With its tradition in research, emphasis on high calibre coures and excellence in teaching methods, students can expect nothing but high-quality world class education. Now that you have chosen to study Down Under, you need to familiarise yourself with the methods of application and all the formalities that are expected from a fresher.
1. When to apply to study in Australia
Students can submit applications any time throughout the year. However, Australia has two intakes per year in February and July. Some universities have a trimester mode as well. Once you’ve decided on a course and an institution, it’s time to apply for admission.
2. How to apply
The first step is to apply for the course you want. There are two ways to do this:
a) Direct to the education provider: To apply direct, download the application form from the education provider’s website. If you are applying for courses at more than one institution, you will need to submit a separate application to each institution.
b) Through an Australian education agent: Most institutions partner with a number of agents. Details on the agents an institution works with can be found on their website or by contacting them directly.
3. Documents you will require as prerequisites
You will need to prepare supporting documentation to send with your application. The documents vary depending on the course, provider and qualification you’re studying for. The most important documents include:
• Certificates that verify your previous study, including qualifications you already have.
• Evidence of your English language proficiency.
• Certificates or documents which verify previous study or work experience if you are seeking course credits. These must be translated into English.
4. Confirmation of enrolment
After you have accepted your offer and paid your deposit, you will receive an ‘Electronic Confirmation of Enrolment’ (eCoE) by email. This will outline your course start date, total course fees and how long your course will run for.
5. Visa application
If you are applying for your Student Visa through the Department of Immigration and Citizenship’s online lodgment facility, you will need the details of your electronic Confirmation of Enrolment to lodge your visa application. If you are lodging a paper visa application you must provide the electronic Confirmation of Enrolment prior to the visa being granted.
Generally, secondary school exchange students and students sponsored by either Australian Agency for International Development, AusAID or the Department of Defence are the only students who will not require a confirmation of enrolment certificate.
You should make sure that you meet requirements for a student visa before you accept an offer and pay any tuition fees.
The student visa you need depends on your chosen course of study. As a guide, the typical key requirements you will need to meet are:
• An issued electronic Confirmation of Enrolment (eCoE) certificate.
• Meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant requirement. Read more about this on the Department of Immigration and Citizenship website.
• Sufficient funds for airfares, course fees and living costs.
• English language proficiency.
• Meet health and character requirements.
• Acceptable Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).
Read more about the Student Visa key requirements
The DIAC website provides detailed information on student visas. It also has a Visa Wizard to help you identify which visa you might be eligible for. All GCC nationals are eligible to apply for a visa online. Visit http://www.immi.gov.au/students/ for further details.
For more information on the application process visit the official Australian Government website for international students: http://www.studyinaustralia.gov.au/global/apply-to-study
The writer is the Deputy Consul-General and Trade Commissioner at the Australian Trade Commission, Dubai
