Are you considering the possibility of studying and working as an international student in Canada? Australia has become one of the top preferred countries in the world for foreign students interested in studying abroad. This country is famous for its support towards the international students through available means to work in the process of studying.
Giving them the freedom and responsibility to manage their expenses during their study is one of the great values of having an enriching stay in Australia as an international student. There are many other advantages of working while studying in Australia. It is time to consider how it can be achieved.
Why Choose Australia?
Now let’s be honest – choosing where to study abroad is a challenge. But Australia has a lot going for it.
To start with, Australia has some of the best universities across the globe and this is a clear indication that the country takes education seriously. They are famous for innovation especially in the research and practical learning areas.
Besides, you will be studying in English, which is really beneficial either for your academic process or your future job.
However, it is not all about studying and sitting for countless hours in the library. Australia is multicultural country and people from all over the world live there. There are number of people from all over the world; thus you are going to come across wide variety of cultures with real life experience.
Top Universities and Courses in Canada
There are many good colleges and universities in Australia that one can join. Some of the universities include the University of Melbourne, Australian National University, University of Sydney amongst others . But do not limit to those schools alone – there are many other very good schools as well out there.
And for what to study, the sky is the limit! Australia boasts of some of the best educational programs such as the engineering, medical and business programs. However, you will also get to learn quality courses in other fields such as; Environmental studies, tourism or any art. No matter what your interest is, there is most likely a wonderful program to achieve it in this country.
Admission Requirements
Entering into an Australian university may not be easy but it is achievable. Here is what you will mostly require:
- Minimum of a high school education or equivalent (General Educational Development or GED)
- English proficiency test (IELTS/TOEFL scores)
- Academic transcripts
- A personal statement
- Letters of recommendation
There may be additional admission requirements for some programs, including portfolio for art, or interview for, well, medicine. On the same note, do not overlook the admission requirements for international students – they may slightly differ from those of the domestic students.
Student Visa Process
Okay, let me tell you about the visas. To study in Australia, you will require a student visa, and as you start applying for one, it might appear rather cumbersome. But do not worry, it is not as difficult as it may seem here.
Firstly, one has to get admission to a course in an Australian institution. After that, one can apply for the particular visa at the Department of Home Affairs’ website through the online platform. Some of the requirements you will have to bring include:
- Proof of enrollment
- Proof of financial capability
- Health insurance
- English language proficiency
- Character requirements
The time taken to process the application may take some time but it is recommended that one applies early enough. Also, do not forget to pay attention to all the conditions of the visa because you will not want to discover any limitations later.
Cost of Living and Studying Expenses
Now, let’s talk about money. Education is not cheap in Australia, but many students consider it to be worth the money. Tuition fees can differ depending on the course and the university but, in general an average range should be between AUD 20000 to AUD 45000 per year for most undergraduate programs.
Your living cost will therefore depend on your choice of residence. Places like Sydney and Melbourne are quite costly compared to other parts of the country. Living costs would on average cost from AUD 20,000 to AUD 25,000 per year. This includes some of the basic needs such as shelter, food, fare, and a little on entertainments.
Never mind these numbers, however! Of course, there are means to control those expenses, such as, for instance, taking a flat together with other students or searching for some student offers. Also, it is important to note that as an international student, you are free to work part time while studying as stipulated in your student visa therein.
Work Opportunities for Students
Now let us focus a bit more on that concept of work-study that was mentioned earlier. Generally, your student visa permits you to work up to 40 hours within a fortnight in term time and full time during vacations. This is a perfect opportunity to receive handsome pay, gain some experience, plus quality education.
You could go for jobs that involve working in retail shops, hotels, restaurants, and offices. On the same note, most universities do have employment opportunities for their students within the university. But if you are a lucky one, you could secure an internship of your desired field of specialization.
The only thing you need to bear in your mind is that you must always ensure a work-study balance. Your primary focus should always be your studies anyway!
Post-Study Work Options
What’s next after graduation? The good news, however, is that there are post-study visas available in Australia that allow you to work and make some cash after your studies.
The temporary graduate visa (subclass 485) enables you to work and even study in Australia after you complete your degree but for a limited time. This basically depends on the type of qualification that you are holding, and in some instances it can range from as little as a span of 2 years to even 4 years.
This is a perfect chance to start with your desired profession, start networking with other businesses or people, and maybe you could even get a job that will help you get permanent residency if that is your goal.
