Studying in Australia

International students are offered comprehensive information to assist them in preparing for their travels to Australia, and once you have arrived.

We ensure that you have a basic understanding of each of the issues that affect international students either prior to commencing their studies, during their studies or after having completed their studies with us.

There are many up to date sources of information to assist you in preparing you for your travels to Australia, these include;
- Information on accommodation costs - http://www.reiwa.com.au or http://www.realestateview.com.au/
- Living in Perth - http://www.livingin-australia.com/living-in-perth.htm

View video - A day in the life of an international student here:


Pre-departure

Tuition Fees

International students living overseas must pay their first semester fees well before departure so they will have enough time to obtain visas. You should be aware of the cost of studying and living in Australia and organise adequate financial resources before leaving your home country.

Passport

You will require a valid passport to travel to Australia and this may be obtained at your Government's consulate or embassy. The issue of a passport can take up to 2-3 months in some countries so make sure you apply well in advance of your course commencement date. Your student visa cannot be issued until you have a valid passport.

Money

You will need to carry with you approximately $500 to cover expenses in Australia for the first few days. You should also arrange to bring other funds in Australian Dollars either in the form of a bank draft or by electronic funds transfer. It is safer to transfer funds electronically when depositing large sums of money into bank accounts. You will be given further information about the Australian banking system at Orientation.

Medical History

It is important to know your own health history. Prior to departure, ask your family doctor exactly what immunisations or medications you have been given in the past. It is also a good idea to bring this information in writing in case of illness while in Australia.

Electrical Goods

Electrical goods in Australia operate on 240V. Check that any electrical items that you bring e.g. hairdryers, walkmans, ricecookers, can be adapted.

Customs Information

Australia has very strict Customs regulations to prevent drugs, diseases and pests being brought into the country. On the plane you will be given a Customs Declaration Form to complete. You should declare any goods you are not sure about and any articles in excess of your duty free allowance. Making a false declaration is a serious offence and may result in heavy fines or the seizure of goods. Please note when packing for your trip that certain food, plant and animal products are prohibited imports. Remember that almost every kind of food product is available in W.A. so you will be able to find ingredients here for your favourite dishes!

Conditions of Student Visa

Listed below are some of the conditions of the Student Visa you will need to abide by but please refer to the Australian Immigration website for current information:

  • Students must be enrolled on a full time course and make satisfactory course progress for each study period.
  • Students must maintain satisfactory attendance and course progress for each study period.
  • Students must remain with the education provider with which you originally enrolled for the first 6 months of the principle course.
  • Students must maintain adequate arrangements for health insurance during their stay in Australia.
  • Students who are under 18 years of age must maintain accommodation, support and general welfare arrangements that are approved by the education provider.
  • Students must notify their education provider of their residential address in Australia within 7 days of arriving in Australia as well as any further changes that occur during their period of enrolment.
  • Students must maintain enough money to pay for travel, tuition and living expenses for the duration of their stay in Australia.
  • Student cannot work more than 20 hours per week during each study period.

Dependants

Dependants of international students can stay with you, while studying in Australia, if their names are included on your student visa application. Dependants who are not included in your student visa application and who would like to come to Australia later, need to apply separately for visas. Their type of visa will be the same as a student visa and will have similar conditions to those outlined above.

Dependants of international students can attend a government or non-government school. Annual fees range from $4,000 for primary education to $15,000 for secondary education.