Study in Australia

Study in Australia: Top 8 Questions Answered

Everything You Need To Know About Studying In Australia!

1. Why study in Australia?

Did you know Australia has the third-highest number of international students in the world behind only the United Kingdom and the United States despite having a population of only 23 million?

This isn’t surprising when you consider Australia has seven of the top 100 universities in the world! In fact, with over 22,000 courses across 1,100 institutions, Australia sits above the likes of Germany, the Netherlands, and Japan, ranking eighth in the Universitas 2012 U21 Ranking of National Higher Education Systems.

These are strong academic credentials, but our institutions are just as highly rated as the cities that house them around the country. Australia has five of the 30 best cities in the world for students based on student mix, affordability, quality of life, and employer activity – all important elements for students when choosing the best study destination. And with more than A$200 million provided by the Australian Government each year in international scholarships, we’re making it easier for you to come and experience the difference an Australian education can make to your future career opportunities.

2. Visas to Study in Australia:

Student visas are for full-time study in courses that are registered for delivery to international students. These courses must have a CRICOS code listed with the Course title and all visa information will refer to the course title and CRICOS code.

Detailed information on applying for a student visa to study in Australia should be obtained directly from the Department of Home Affairs website.

Getting a visa

3. Genuine Temporary Entrant Requirement

All applicants for a Student visa must show they are coming to Australia temporarily to gain a quality education. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement is not intended to exclude students who, after studying in Australia, develop skills Australia needs and who then go on to apply for permanent residence.

Refer to the link following links for more information:

GTE Requirement

4. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)

All international students in Australian are required to hold valid OSHC cover for the duration of their student visa. There are a range of provider who offer OSHC cover to international students. You are free to choose any one of them. Refer to the below websites for the list of providers.

OSHC Insurance Options

5. Evidence of Financial Capacity:

The Australian government requires that you are able to demonstrate the ability to afford your study and living expenses in Australia. You are required to provide evidence for the following;

  • Sufficient funds to cover your travel costs and 12 months of living and tuition fees for you and your accompanying family members and school costs for any school-aged dependants,
    or
  • Evidence that your spouse or parents are willing to support you and they have an annual income of at least AUD 60,000 for single students or at least AUD 70,000 for students that are accompanied by family members

6. Accommodation:

PAGE Institute does not have on-campus accommodation but can assist in locating short-term accommodation placements for new international students. PAGE Institute can also provide referrals to a number of private organisations that specialise in providing long-term accommodation placement services. They may charge you a fee for this service. PAGE Institute does not accept any payments for accommodation or associated services, as these payments are made through the agreements between you and the accommodation provider. Please contact us directly for more information about your accommodation.

7. Indicative cost of living in Australia:

The Australian Government specifies AU$20,290 as the minimum amount required to cover living costs for a 12-month period. This figure excludes tuition fees or the cost of travel to and from Australia. It is the minimum required to pay for accommodation, commute to school or university, buy food, have fun, and pay for all the little extras that you need day-to-day.

Refer to the link for more information

Cost Calculator

8. Work Rights and Tax File Number (TFN):

All students granted student visas automatically receive permission to work with their student visas. The ‘permission to work’ granted on your visa is effective from the first date that your classes commence. Under this work permit, you may work for a maximum of 20 hours per week during a semester, and without restriction during mandated holidays.

You must obtain a Tax File Number if you intend to work. Please refer to the following websites for more information:

Australian Taxation Office

Apply for TFN

You may be eligible to claim for funds paid by your employer into a retirement fund (superannuation) on departing Australia.

Superannuation Payment

You are protected by law whilst working in Australia and your work rights may be checked:

Fair Work Ombudsman