Studying at university in Australia means studying at undergraduate or postgraduate level at universities in Australia. Australia is a popular study destination, with high quality educational institutions and a variety of programs. Many students choose Australia to complete their higher education, or to study short-term through international student exchange programs.
Studying at university in Australia usually involves the following steps:
Program and University Selection: Start by researching the program you are interested in and the universities in Australia. Different universities offer different programs and specializations.
Application and Admission: You apply to the university for the program you have chosen. You can do this by online application, or directly through the university's website. If you are accepted, you receive the official acceptance letter.
Student Visa: If you are an international student, you must apply for a student visa to study in Australia. That visa is what allows you to study legally in Australia.
Accommodation and Living Arrangements: Plan your accommodation and living costs before you go to Australia. There are different options, such as university dormitories, private accommodation options or house sharing.
Study Period: The start dates of the study year in Australia are normally between February and July. How long you study depends on the type and level of the program. Undergraduate programs usually last 3-4 years, while postgraduate programs can last several years.
Study and Social Life: During your university studies you will gain experience both academically and socially. Experiences such as studying, attending events and making friends will be waiting for you.
Some of the advantages of studying in Australia include internationally recognized universities, the possibility to have diverse cultural experiences and improve language skills, the chance to specialize in areas of interest and the possibility to build a global network. However, it is important to be careful about the cost of study and living expenses, and to follow visa and other procedures properly.
Insurances for Students
While you study in Australia, you are recommended to take out various insurances. These insurances protect you against risks related to health, accidents and study. Here are the types of insurance recommended for students studying in Australia:
Health Insurance: As an international student, you are required to have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), a health insurance policy valid in Australia. OSHC gives you basic coverage for medical services and hospitalization costs. Health insurance is a required document for the student's visa application, and it must stay valid for the duration of study.
Travel Insurance: Before you arrive in Australia, and while you travel inside the country, it is important to take out comprehensive travel insurance. It protects you during unexpected events or emergencies, covering medical assistance, trip cancellations, lost luggage and other travel-related risks.
Education Insurance: Some universities may require education insurance to cover certain risks associated with students' studies. Such insurance can protect the student's tuition fees or other academic expenses.
Health insurance is mandatory in Australia, so you will need to arrange OSHC before applying. This insurance must be renewed and kept up to date throughout the duration of study. It is also important that travel insurance is in place before you leave for Australia, and valid for the duration of your studies. Study insurance may differ depending on the university's policies, so it is important to contact your university and find out what insurance is required.
Can International Students Work While Studying in Australia?
Yes, international students can work while studying in Australia under certain conditions. However, there are some conditions and limitations to obtain a work permit. Work permits for international students studying in Australia are examined in two different categories:
1- Right to Work Related to Educational Status:
- University students (Undergraduate and Graduate): during their course period, full-time students are permitted to work 40 hours per week outside of semesters or semester breaks. Within semesters, the limit is 20 hours per week.
- Language school students: allowed to work 20 hours per week.
- These work rights are valid provided that the students' educational institutions explicitly approve, and that the work permits are compatible with the visa conditions.
2- Graduate Work Visa:
If you graduate after completing your master's or doctoral programs in Australia, you can apply for a visa category called "Graduate Work" to work in certain professions. Graduates with this visa category can be authorized to work in Australia for a certain period of time.
Before you apply for a work permit, it is important to obtain up-to-date information on work rights and visa conditions. Get it from authorized migration advisors, or from the official website of the Australian Department of Home Affairs. Also, it is necessary to keep up to date with the current policies, since there may be various changes regarding work permits during the study period.
Do Working Students Have to File Tax Returns?
Yes. If you are an international student working in Australia, you must file a tax return at the end of the financial year, like everyone else. This is especially important for international students earning income in Australia. Filing can feel intimidating, but the good news is that by filing your tax return you can claim your tax refund! However, there is another point you should keep in mind. You need to be in Australia for at least six months before you can claim your Australian tax refund.
Studying in Australia offers students unique opportunities. For more information about these opportunities, and to get detailed and direct information about student insurance, please contact our expert education consultants.
