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Australia is the largest island and the smallest continent in the world. It lies between the Indian Ocean and the South Pacific Ocean. It is about 11,000 kilometers southwest of North America and 3,200 kilometers southeast of mainland Asia.
Australia boasts a fantastic temperate climate. It is a land of bright sunshine, surf beaches, tropical rivers, rainforests, mountain ranges, red deserts and rich green coastal plains. The flora and fauna are interesting and unique, with kangaroos, koalas and wombats included in the array of wildlife.
The population of Australia is almost nineteen million. More than four-fifths of the people live in cities and towns that are generally in coastal areas near the mouth of a river and as close as possible to a good ocean harbour. The main cities are Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide, Hobart and Canberra and are all State Capital cities.
Most Australians enjoy an excellent standard of living, good educational opportunities and a relaxed lifestyle made possible by the outstanding natural and economic features of the country.
There are a range of climate types with the north being tropical, the centre being desert and the southern coastal areas being temperate. The seasons are the reverse of the Northern Hemisphere. January/February is generally the hottest time of year and the months around July are usually the coldest. In the tropical north it is warm to hot all year around, with the seasons being simply referred to as 'wet' or 'dry'. The majority of the populations live around Australia's coastal edges, due to the harsh environmental conditions of the centre.
There are a range of climate types with the north being tropical, the centre being desert and the southern coastal areas being temperate. The seasons are the reverse of the Northern Hemisphere. January/February is generally the hottest time of year and the months around July are usually the coldest. In the tropical north it is warm to hot all year around, with the seasons being simply referred to as 'wet' or 'dry'. The majority of the populations live around Australia's coastal edges, due to the harsh environmental conditions of the centre.
Australia has the third largest number of international students in the English-speaking world behind the USA and UK. In some countries Australia is the students' first choice study destination.
Australian qualifications and institutions are recognized worldwide for their high quality and excellence. Graduates from Australia are very successful in finding jobs and hold lead positions worldwide. Also, they are readily accepted for postgraduate study at leading international universities. Living expenses and tuition costs in Australia are considerably less expensive than the UK and USA. Have a look at the interactive map and see where Australia is in relation to the rest of the world. You can also see how close we are to your home country. |
| Commonwealth of Australia |
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Flag |
Coat of arms |
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Anthem: Advance Australia Fair |
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Canberra
35°18'S 149°08'E |
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Largest city |
Sydney |
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Official languages |
None |
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National language |
English (de facto) |
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Ethnic groups |
29.06% Australian,
0.45% Australian Aboriginal,
52.8% European,
6.67% Asian,
4.69% Other,
6.33% Unstated |
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Demonym |
Australian,
Aussie (colloquial) |
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Government |
Federal parliamentary democracy and
constitutional monarchy |
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Australian qualifications are respected globally when seeking employment or further study at leading international universities. Distinguishing Australia from many other countries is the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) which is a national system of learning pathways recognised throughout Australia and the world. |
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Australian qualifications are recognized globally when seeking employment or further study at leading international universities. Most courses and training undertaken by international students in Australia on a student visa are covered by the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF). The AQF is a national system of learning pathways which is endorsed by the Australian Government and recognised throughout Australia and the world. On completion of an AQF qualification international students can progress to the next AQF level anywhere in Australia provided they satisfy student visa requirements. |
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More than 180,000 international students from about 80 countries study in Australia each year. You should visit Study in Australia websites for country-specific student statistics. |
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If you do not meet undergraduate course entry requirements you may be able to enrol in Foundation Studies which prepare you for further study in Australia and reserve a provisional place in your proposed course. Bridging courses, such as a Master Qualifying program, are also offered. There are also many English language courses with starting dates throughout the year to equip you for further study in Australia. It is suggested that you seek advice from the institution about meeting their entry requirements before applying for admission into your selected courses. |
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Students need a sufficient level of English language proficiency and must meet minimum academic requirements to study in Australia. Institutions will assess whether you meet the selection criteria set for your proposed course of study. They will look at the level and content of the study you have completed in Australia or your home country. |
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Failing to meet the entry requirements
If you do not meet undergraduate course entry requirements you may be able to enrol in Foundation Studies which prepare you for further study in Australia and reserve a provisional place in your proposed course. Bridging courses, such as a Master Qualifying program, are also offered. There are also many English language courses with starting dates throughout the year to equip you for further study in Australia. It is suggested that you seek advice from the institution about meeting their entry requirements before applying for admission into your selected courses.
Entry requirements
Students need a sufficient level of English language proficiency and must meet minimum academic requirements to study in Australia. Institutions will assess whether you meet the selection criteria set for your proposed course of study. They will look at the level and content of the study you have completed in Australia or your home country.
English language proficiency
English language proficiency is now a requirement when applying for a student visa (see table below). The IELTS is the only test accepted by the Australian Department of Immigration and Multicultural Affairs for student visa purposes. Some visa Assessment Levels accept the IELTS entry levels required by the education institution.
Australian education institutions can only accept students with an appropriate level of English proficiency. Institutions set their own English language requirements and may have different IELTS entry levels for the proposed level of course than those required for a student visa. You should check the entry requirements with your proposed institution or Geebee Education.
* IELTS test to have been conducted not more than 24 months prior to the day on which the application was made. |
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- Undergraduate Undergraduate courses require the overseas equivalent of Australian high school matriculation, such as three passes at GCE A Levels in appropriate subjects. Some courses may also have certain pre-requisite subjects.
- Postgraduate Entry to postgraduate courses requires satisfactory completion of a first degree at undergraduate level. Proven research ability or relevant work experience may also be taken into consideration.
- Vocational education and training Usually there are no other entrance exams to VET institutions. But some courses may have certain pre-requisite subjects or demonstrated work experience.
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If your English language proficiency score is not high enough, there are many English language courses with starting dates all through the year to prepare you for further study in Australia. All Australian universities have their own English language center or have links with English language colleges. and reserve a provisional place in your proposed course. Bridging courses, such as a Master Qualifying program, are also offered. It is suggested that you seek advice from the institution about meeting their entry requirements before applying for admission into your selected courses. If you do not meet undergraduate course entry requirements you may be able to enrol in Foundation Studies which prepare you for further study in Australia. |
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- Scholarships are available for international students. However most are offered for postgraduate study in universities.
- The Australian Government and education institutions offer scholarships for international students however most of these are offered in universities and for postgraduate study mainly. There are a number of other organisations giving scholarships for international study.
- The majority of international students in Australia are full-fee paying students. With only a limited number of scholarships available for international students there is intense competition for these awards. Scholarships are not available for international students undertaking English language training in Australia.
- For information on scholarships use the Scholarships Database. Here you will find the most accurate, reliable and searchable list of all scholarships available by Australian-based organisations, institutions and government bodies available to international students studying or planning to study in Australia on student visas.
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Australian universities offer a range of postgraduate scholarships to international students predominantly targeting Ph.D. and Masters Degrees by research. The course of study and financial support is determined by the university. The Australian Government Education Department website and GeeBee can link you to the relevant university to find out more about scholarships available. |
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International and charitable organisations offer scholarships for international study. Applications for these scholarships must be made to the representatives of these agencies in the student's home country, not Australia.The Association of Commonwealth Universities website provides a scholarships guide for Commonwealth postgraduate students offered by Governments, Rotary International, World Bank, World Health Organisation, Asian Development Bank, United Nations, Rockefeller Foundation and other organisations.. |
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Australian institutions are not officially ranked. However, there are some commercial publications available that compare achievements of universities and institutions in meeting certain criteria such as use of technology or student support services.
All of Australia's education and training institutions offer high quality, globally relevant courses because Australian Government legislation requires them to be registered and meet quality assurance measures. Excellence in teaching, research, facilities and support services is found across Australia's diversified education and training system. Prospective students should focus on finding institutions that offer the course most suited to their particular needs and aspirations |
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Australia is an international leader in safeguards and support services for international students. Specialist services for international students are well resource, quality assured and can be enjoyed in a safe and hospitable society.
Australian institutions are sensitive to religious and cultural needs and provide a range of support and monitoring services to help deal with adjusting to a new environment, the practicalities of living in Australia and completing studies. Among the excellent range of services supporting the personal and academic achievements of international students in Australia are:
- Language tuition
- International student advisers
- Application and visa-processing assistance
- Arrival reception and orientation programmes
- Health, counselling, accommodation and employment service
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Undergraduate |
Postgraduate |
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Bachelor |
Graduate Certificate |
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Graduate Diploma |
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Masters (eg. MBA) |
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Doctorate |
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| The following qualifications are available at Australian universities and approved higher education providers. |
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Bachelor Degree |
minimum 3 years |
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Bachelor Degree (Honours) |
minimum 4 years |
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The Bachelor degree is the fundamental university qualification and is the basic qualification for entry to the professions. Some professions may require additional vocational qualifications as a condition of entry.
Study involves acquiring a systematic and coherent body of knowledge, its underlying principles and concepts, and associated problem-solving techniques. The student develops the academic skills and attitudes to comprehend and evaluate new information, concepts and evidence from a wide range of sources. Also developed is the ability to review, consolidate, extend and apply the knowledge and techniques learnt.
Study usually involves major studies in an area where significant literature is available. Course content is to a significant depth and progressively developed to a high level, preparing students for further post-graduate study if desired.
A Bachelor Degree with honours takes an additional year after a Bachelor Degree. Honours may also be granted where outstanding achievement is recorded in a Bachelor Degree course of four or more years. |
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| Graduate Certificates |
6 months |
| The Graduate Certificate typically involves broadening individual skills already gained in an undergraduate program, or developing vocational knowledge and skills in a new professional area. |
| Graduate Diplomas |
12 months (1 Year) |
| The Graduate Diploma either broadens individual skills obtained in an undergraduate program or develops vocational knowledge and skills in a new professional area. This qualification can also be described as further specialization within a systematic and coherent body of knowledge. |
| Masters Degree |
1 - 2 Years |
The Masters Degree involves enhancing specific professional or vocational skills. The Masters Degree is typically gained by research or coursework or a combination. Study involves acquiring in-depth understanding of a specific area of knowledge usually by independent research.
A Masters Degree takes either one year after a Bachelor Degree with honours or two years after a Bachelor Degree. |
| Doctoral Degree |
typically 3 years |
The Doctoral Degree is the highest award offered by Australian universities. Although it is a research degree, some programs may have a course work component. There are three components to a Doctoral Degree:
1. A searching review of the literature, experimentation or other systemic approach to a body of knowledge.
2. An original research project resulting in a significant contribution to knowledge and understanding and/or the application of knowledge within a discipline or field of study.
3. A substantial and well-ordered thesis, demonstrating the relationship of the research to the broader framework of the discipline or field of study. |
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Accommodation |
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Most universities and colleg es can provide accommodation on or near to their campus. University apartments, residential colleges and halls of residence are generally available.
International students often enjoy staying at the halls of residence as they have opportunity to mix with many other students on a full-time basis. This is also one of the cheapest options for accommodation. Meals and some cleaning services are usually provided.
Residential colleges provide accommodation with meals. They are slightly more expensive than university Halls of Residence.The facilities are more comprehensive and often include fully serviced rooms, sporting and recreation facilities , computer and internet access and sometimes a library.
International students have the option of sharing accommodation with other students. They are able to share the rent on an apartment or a flat close to the campus. Some Australian families provide homestay accommodation for international students. It is often wise for a student to organise temporary accommodation until they have had a chance to consider the alternatives.
Institutions maintain a register of families prepared to board international students during the academic year.They check to ensure that homestay families are reputable and that they offer accommodation of a reasonable standard. Farmstay accommodation is often available in rural areas. This is an exciting option for students wishing to experience a farming lifestyle.
Backpackers, youth hostels, guest houses and hotels provide a variety of housing options at various costs. Individual universities and colleges are also able to provide information on accommodation available. Prices vary from place to place, so local information is important.
Universities, TAFE institutes and other large education providers have housing offices to assist their students find accommodation. They will be able to provide information on the full range of available housing options, including prices and any rules and regulations you need to know. It may be possible to have temporary accommodation organised for when you first arrive, so there will be time to look around and choose your permanent living arrangement after having personally perused the locations and choices available. This would need to be arranged with the housing office prior to your arrival. There may be a placement fee for the provision of accommodation, either temporary or permanent, which you will need to check with your education provider. |
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Boarding schools
Many private schools offer boarding options. Students are fully catered for whilst they board with their meals, cleaning and laundry being part of the services offered. Boarding house residents also have access to the school facilities to assist with study and social activities. Tuition fees must be added to the boarding fee range shown.
Cost: A$8 000-A$11 000 per year
Homestay or Farmstay
Homestay and farmstay are where the student lives with an Australian family in their house. Generally some or all meals are included. It can be an easy entry to Australia for young students and is a popular option for those attending high school or ELICOS courses. Homestay is accommodation within a city whereas farmstay is housing in a rural area. Your housing office will have a list of suitable potential families.
Cost: A$110-A$270 per week
University Accommodation
University residential colleges
University residential colleges provide accommodation along with all meals, cleaning and a wide range of support services for both social and study needs. They are generally more
expensive than Halls of Residence because of the wide range of facilities offered.
Cost: A$190-A$280 per week |
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University Halls of Residence
University halls of residence offer accommodation also but with a lesser range of services attached. Some meals and cleaning will generally be included but there may also be self-catering facilities. This form of accommodation is very popular, especially with first year students and will have to be booked well in advance of your arrival in Australia. |
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University Apartments
Some universities also have a range of apartments, either close to or on campus. These can be rented and provide the security of university based and run accommodation with the increased autonomy of share living. Apartments are generally popular with students in the later years of their degrees. University accommodation prices and options vary between different institutions and all students should contact the international office of their prospective university for full details. Due to the popularity of these choices it is important to apply early. |
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Private or Church-owned Boarding Hostels
This option can be cheaper than university accommodation and shares many of the attractions. It is available for both tertiary and non-tertiary students. Residents share kitchen and bathroom facilities and cater for themselves.
Cost: A$80-A$135 per week
Share Accommodation
Share accommodation is advertised on student notice boards, in housing offices and in the 'Share accommodation' section of newspapers. Advertisements will appear for one or more people to share a house or a flat where a lease has already been taken out. Many students prefer to move into share accommodation after a year or two of on-campus residence. Students are generally expected to provide some (or all) of their own furniture.
Cost: A$50-A$160 per week
Rental accommodation
Rental accommodation is the same as share boarding except that it involves finding a residence to rent, rather than moving into one that has already been leased. Once again, students are generally expected to supply their own furnishings. Rental agreements require payment of rent in advance and a security bond to be paid at the start, which is usually equivalent to one month's rent. Your housing office will be able to assist with finding rental accommodation and your rights as a tenant.
Cost: A$70-A$350 per person per week
Please note: the range of costs shown above are a guide only. Prior to arrival you should contact the Housing Office or International Education Office at the institution where you will be studying and ask about the accommodation options available and the costs involved. |
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Costs |
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An Australian Government survey showed that in terms of total costs-including tuition fees and living expenses-Australia was consistently less expensive than the USA and UK. Tuition fees will vary contingent on the course or institution. This website provides average costs as a guide. Living costs too will vary by location, course and lifestyle.
Australia offers excellent value for money, with living expenses and tuition costs in Australia considerably less expensive than the United Kingdom (UK) and the United States of America (USA).
Tuition fees vary according to the institution and course selected but this website provides a guide to the average costs. Scholarships are available for international students but the competition is intense and most of the international students in Australia are full-fee paying students.
The average international student in Australia spends about $320 per week on housing, food, clothing, entertainment, transport, international and domestic travel, telephone and incidental costs. This is a realistic guide, but remember that individual circumstances will vary by location, course and lifestyle.
International students studying in Australia are required to have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your student visa in Australia. Students in Australia are also responsible for their own accident and property insurance. It is a good idea to take out travel insurance before leaving your country to cover lost baggage, cancellation of plane tickets and repatriation.
International students can work while studying in Australia but the money you earn should not be used as your only source of income. To be granted a student visa in Australia you need to have adequate means of financial support. |
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International students are charged up-front tuition fees. Institutions sometimes make an additional charge to cover other costs associated with being a student: student organisation membership, library and laboratory costs and sports facility costs. Some courses make specific charges for excursions, books, stationery and other essential material. These costs will vary depending on the course or institution therefore average costs are provided below and should only be used as a guide. All school tuition fees are exempt from Australia's Goods and Services Tax (GST).
Institutions will advise when to pay your tuition fees and acceptable methods of payment. |
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Foundation Studies |
$A9000-$A14,000 a year Approx. |
such as university entrance, preparatory and bridging courses |
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Undergraduate |
Bachelor Degree |
$A10,000- $A13,500 a year Approx. |
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such as courses in arts, business, economics and law |
Laboratory-based Bachelor Degree |
$A11,000- $A16,500 a year Apporx. |
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such as science and engineering courses |
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Postgraduate |
Graduate Certificates |
$A9000- $A16,000 a year Approx. |
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Graduate Diplomas |
Masters |
$A11,000-$A18,500 a year Approx. |
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Doctoral Degree |
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Test Requirements |
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It is important to become proficient in English to make your stay in Australia a good one. You will probably be required to take the International English Language Testing System(IELTS) before you will be admitted to a Australian university. The school may also have additional tests for graduate students who are prospective teaching assistants.
This section provides information about English proficiency requirements and about IELTS.
• IELTS
• GMAT |
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Visa |
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You will need to have a valid passport and a visa in order to enter Australia. Since it can take several months to obtain a passport and all the documentation, start the process as soon as you can. Here you will find information regarding Visa requirements and procedures. |
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Visa Procedure |
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Study Visa:
You need to apply for a student visa. To be granted a student visa you must complete a visa application form, lodge it with the evidence required, pay the application charge and satisfy the student visa requirements. You can be granted a student visa only if you intend to study a registered course on a full-time basis and meet with a number of visa conditions after you have entered Australia.
To be granted a student visa you must satisfy the visa requirements and meet with a number of visa conditions for attendance and academic performance which come into effect after your entry in Australia. Your Student (Temporary) Visa will list the conditions that apply specifically to you. It is important to meet with your visa conditions to avoid visa cancellation. Student visa information on this website is an outline only and subject to change. For more detailed, accurate and up-to-date information on student visas and visa requirements please check the Gee bee education. The Student (Temporary) Visa has separate sub-classes for each education sector. You should apply under the visa sub-class for your principal course of study.
The Student (Temporary) Visa has separate sub-classes for each education sector. You should apply under the visa sub-class for your principal course of study. |
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Student visa sub-classes |
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Subclass 570 |
Independent ELICOS Sector |
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for international students undertaking ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students) as a stand-alone course, and not as a prerequisite to commencing another course (for example, a degree course) |
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Subclass 572 |
Vocational education and training (VET) sector |
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Covers Certificate I, II, III and IV, Diploma and Advanced Diploma. |
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Subclass 573 |
Higher education sector |
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Covers a Bachelor degree, Graduate certificate, and Graduate diploma |
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Subclass 574 |
Masters and Ph.D. sector |
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Covers a Masters degree by coursework or by research, and a Ph.D.degree |
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Subclass 575 |
Non-award foundation studies/other sector |
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Covers foundation, bridging or other courses that do not lead to the award of a degree, diploma or other formal award |
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Subclass 576 |
AusAID or Defence sponsored sector |
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Covers full-time study undertaken by AusAID or Defence-sponsored students for the whole or part of an education or training course offered by an Australian education provider |
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Common student visa requirements |
| (Check 'Applying for a Student Visa' information sheet Form 1160i) |
- You are of good character
- You are of sound health
- You have acceptable health insurance through the Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for yourself and members of your family unit accompanying You to Australia
- You have no outstanding debts to the Commonwealth of Australia, or have made arrangements acceptable to the Minister to repay such a debit
- If assessed at level 1 or 2, or you are in Australia under any assessment level, an electronic confirmation of enrolment (eCoE) certificate is required before you lodge your application and a copy is to be furnished with your application
- If you are outside Australia and assessed at level 3, 4 or 5 you will need an 'offer of a place in a course' letter from your Australian education provider at the time you lodge your application. If you are at Assessment level 3 or 4 you must apply for Pre-Visa Assessment.
- An electronic confirmation of enrolment (eCoE) certificate issued by your education provider after you lodge your application if you are requested by the Australian embassy to do so. GeeBee can help you with this.
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Common visa conditions |
- You must satisfy attendance and course requirements and maintain a valid enrolment for your course
- You must not work unless you have special permission
- You must maintain your Overseas Student Health (OSHC) cover while in Australia
- You must leave Australia before your visa expires
- You must remain with the education provider you originally enrolled with for the first year of your course or, if the course is less than 12 months, for the duration of your course
- You must advise your education provider of your residential address within 7days of your arrival in Australia and must advise any address change
- If you change education provider you must inform your current education provider within 7 days of issue of an ECOE
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Visa application forms |
| Application for a student (temporary) visa |
Form 157A |
Application for a student visa with permission to work |
Form 157P |
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only to be lodged after you have arrived in Australia and commenced study in a registered course in Australia |
Application for a student visa with permission to change education provider |
Form 157C |
Application for pre-qualified institution (PQI) status |
Form 157Q |
Short Term Visitor/Tourist Visas - Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) |
ETA |
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Visa information forms |
Applying for a student visa |
Form 1160i |
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| Country Assessment Levels - Student Visa Processing
(you should read this document along with form 1160i) |
Charges (fees) |
Form 990i |
Student Dependant Nomination |
Form 991 |
Health requirements for temporary entrants |
Form 1163i |
Preparing and processing visa applications |
Form 1025i |
Bridging visas |
Form 1024i |
| Short Term Visitor/Tourist Visas - Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) |
ETA |
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Temporary Entry Overseas Students Booklets |
Independent ELICOS |
1173 |
Vocational Education and Training |
Form 1175 |
Higher Education |
Form 1176 |
Masters and Doctorate |
Form 1177 |
Non-award Foundation Studies/Other |
Form 1178 |
AusAID or Defence Sponsored |
Form 1168 |
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Country assessment levels |
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Each education sector in each country is rated according to 4 Assessment Levels based on the levels of students not meeting with their visa conditions. The visa requirements or Evidentiary Standards you must satisfy are increasingly difficult from Assessment Level 1 through to Assessment Level 4. A fifth Assessment Level is available for emergency use and has the most stringent requirements. Further information on country assessment levels can be found at the DIMIA website. |
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Evidentiary standards/Assessment Factors |
financial ability to cover air fares, tuition fees and other expenses related to your education and stay in Australia |
English language proficiency |
likely compliance with visa conditions |
any other relevant matters such as age, academic background and usefulness of course for employment and immigration history |
capacity to support any family unit members for the duration of your stay in Australia |
the specific provisions for each of these depend upon the country assessment level and are described in the Student Booklets provided by DIMIA for each sector |
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Electronic Confirmation of Enrolment |
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An Electronic Confirmation of Enrolment (eCoE) is issued by your Australian education provider and is the only accepted evidence of enrolment for processing student visa applications. Contingent on your country of nationality and your principal course of study you may have to undergo a Pre-Visa Assessment (PVA) before an institution issues an eCoE. The institution will advise you of its requirements but generally it will require payment of at least one semester of course fees before issuing an eCoE. A copy of your eCoE will be submitted for getting a student visa.
Information collected through the eCoE process includes the student visa application, visa grant and visa compliance data from a student's arrival in Australia and course commencement through to their departure from Australia. |
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Useful links |
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About Australia Education |
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