Applying to Australian institutions is easy, but it can take some time and also precise planning. Be careful of the application due dates by consulting with your education provider, as these may differ for each provider. Make note of important deadlines, allowing for postage times, and ensure you meet them. There are many elements to bring together when starting your Australian education and it is important to be thorough and timely:
Starting the application.
After having selected your course and found an education provider that matches your criteria, you may begin the application process.
International students normally apply directly to Australian institutions, either by post or online. You can download application forms from institutions’ websites or request the forms to be posted to you. Contacting an education agent in your country or an overseas representative of the institution to which you are applying is also another option. Application forms mostly require you to supply the following-
- Personal details about you
- Certified proof of your level of English language proficiency
- Your previous academic qualifications’ details, such as academic transcripts
- Your course preferences
- A summary of your employment experience (if required).
If you haven’t yet completed your studies, you can provide evidence of your most recent grades until you are able to provide your final results. In case you can’t supply your documents in English, you must provide an official certified translation. The provider you select will have specific English language entry requirements and if you do not meet the entry requirements, you may need to consider a different course or apply for bridging or foundation study, which may improve your chances. Institutions mostly charge a non-refundable application fee that must be included with your application. Before sending your application, check your visa requirements with your local Australian visa office or online at the Department of Immigration and Border Protection (DIBP) website to be certain that you will qualify for a visa if your application is successful. If, at any time during the application process, you are uncertain about how to proceed, don’t hesitate to contact your education provider.
Next step.
After your application is received and assessed by your education provider, you will be notified of the result. It may take a few weeks, but once your application is accepted, you will receive a letter of offer and an acceptance form. Be sure to carefully read the letter of offer and check any conditions that may apply. You will need to meet these conditions before the institution issues a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). You may also be required to pay a portion of your tuition fees before your institution issues a CoE.
Applying for a student visa
After you’ve been accepted, you’ll have to apply for a student visa. You can apply for it using either your letter of offer, however you will need to supply evidence of your Confirmation of Enrolment before your student visa is granted. Your education provider will send you an admissions package with information that will help you prepare for your journey to Australia. This may include information about your accommodation options, facts about the location, financial information and details about orientation programs. You must also purchase your plane tickets, organise your Overseas Student Health Cover and start thinking about your accommodation in Australia.