Australia is one of the preferred destination for international students due to its quality education, and jobs for students. Its institutions and the cultural, education and employment opportunities available make this place popular among students all over the world with famous universities, melting population, and high quality of living.
However, the process of arranging the visa necessary to study and work in Australia may take a lot of time of a person who has no experience in it.
We trust that this article will give you a clear understanding of the visa detailing procedures, what to expect in Australia and how best to stay safe.
Study and Work In Australia: Navigating the Visa Process
When it comes to studying and working in Australia, one has to first acquire the correct visa for their stay in the country. The most common visa that international students use is called the Student Visa (Subclass 500). This visa permits you to study full-time in an Australian institution and you are allowed to work part-time generally.
For you to qualify for this visa, you must have an offer from an educational institution in Australia. You will also be required to fulfill some conditions, which include demonstrating that you are able to pay for your expenses while you are in Australia, passing prescribed health and character tests, and having sufficient health insurance (Overseas Student Health Cover or OSHC). There is no definite time limit to the student visa and as soon as it is granted the visa will remain valid throughout the course period plus extra months for travelling and other preparations to be made after the course is completed.
One should know the restrictions of the visa, such as the maximum hours which one is allowed to work while studying and the requirement to keep the satisfactory academic performance. By understanding these requirements, you will be able to maximize your experience in Australia without violating the terms of your visa.
Steps on How to Study and Work in Australia
Let’s highlight the steps you can take in order to study and work in Australia.
Choose Your Course and Institution
The first and one of the most important steps in studying in Australia is choosing the course and the institution that will help you achieve your dream. Australia in particular covers a vast number programs in different fields such as engineering, business, medicine and arts.
Choose your university or college wisely taking into consideration issues such as fees, the geographical location, and quality of the program. Once you have decided on the program of your choice, go ahead and use for admission in that university or college. If accepted, you will be issued with a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) which will be useful as you apply for your visa.
Meet the Entry Requirements
It is important that you meet both your academic and English language proficiency admission standards. Many institutions expect you to have completed previous studies to the standard of Australian qualifications, and in some instances you may be required to undertake an English test usually the IELTS or TOEFL. Ensure that your academic certificates and test scores meet the requirements of the institution you intend to attend.
Apply for the Student Visa (Subclass 500)
The following step to take after getting your CoE is applying for a student visa. You’ll need to apply online through the Department of Home Affairs website. Thus, you will need to use your computer and the Internet to fill out a form on the website of the Department of Home Affairs.
In the course of your application, you will be required to furnish your CoE, passport, financial evidence, health insurance documentation, and a completed visa application form.
The last step is to make the payment of the visa fees to be charged on the application and submitting the application. It takes around 20 days to process depending on the circumstance, it is wise to apply as early as possible.
Obtain Health Insurance
Overseas students planning to study in Australia for a period of more than two weeks need to have Overseas Student Health Cover. This insurance will cater for simple medical operations and routines as they are very expensive in Australia. OSH is available through your institution or you can also directly get it from insurance companies.
Work While Studying
Another advantage of the student visa is that you can work part time when studying. You may work full-time during the semester break and from up to 12 hours a fortnight during term time overall with a total of 48 hours allowed. This offer allows you to get some workplace experience and practice using your language while also getting a little cash for your work.
However, there are certain academic demands you have to adhere to so as to retain your visa status hence the need to study.
Post-Study Work Opportunities
Upon the completion of the course, depending on the qualification you have been awarded, you may be eligible to apply for a Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485), which enables you to continue living in Australia to work and gain more experience in your area of specialty. This visa can be a way to establishing a foothold in the country should a person decide to immigrate permanently.
FAQs
Here are frequently asked questions regarding study and work in Australia.
Can international students work full-time in Australia?
Well, yes, in a way International students are allowed to work up to 48 hours per fortnight when their course is in session. Nevertheless, students are allowed to work full time especially during holidays and semester break.
Are there any age restrictions for student visas in Australia?
In Australia, there is no restriction of age to acquire a student visa irrespective of the age of the person. However, any student under 18 years of age has to have proper and proper arrangements for welfare such as a guardian or accommodation to fulfill the visa requirements.
Can I extend my student visa in Australia?
Yes, if your study program takes longer than your current visa you can apply for a longer visa. You have to get a new student visa as soon as possible y before the current one is expired.
Is health insurance mandatory for international students?
Indeed, every International student is required to have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) throughout their period of stay in Australia. This is when applying for a student visa it becomes a precondition that one must have health insurance.
Can I bring my family to Australia while studying?
Yes, the spouse and dependent children of the international students can be included in the application for the student visa. But you need to show that you have means to support your family during their stay and visit.
Also it means that members of the family can work for just a few hours and children of school going age must go to school.
Continue Reading: WORKING IN AUSTRALIA: Requirements and Procedure
Studying and working in Australia remain a dream for many people. All you need to have is proper planning; then you can achieve academic success, gain valuable work experience, and potentially build a future in one of the world’s most desirable destinations.
