Australian Student Visa – Requirements and Opportunities
The Australian Student Visa is designed for individuals planning to study full-time in Australia. To obtain this visa, you will need to provide a Letter of Support and demonstrate sufficient funds to cover tuition fees and living expenses in Australia.
Introduction to the Australian Student Visa
The Australian Student Visa offers students an opportunity to pursue a world-class education while also allowing them to work in the country during their studies. However, there are certain restrictions and limitations on working as a student in Australia.
One of the key requirements for a student visa is being a genuine temporary entrant (GTE). This means that you must prove that you intend to study in Australia temporarily and do not plan to settle there permanently. To meet this requirement, you will need to submit a letter explaining your reasons for choosing the course and how it aligns with your career goals.
You will also need to provide detailed information on your financial situation and how you plan to fund your studies in Australia. This will help the visa officer determine your genuine interest in studying abroad.
Eligibility Criteria for the Australian Student Visa
To be eligible for a student visa, you must meet certain requirements. These include meeting English language proficiency standards and demonstrating financial capacity. Additionally, you must have health insurance coverage and provide a police certificate, also known as a “Criminal Record Check.”
You will need to provide a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from your educational provider and evidence of sufficient funds to cover your course fees and travel expenses in Australia. This can be demonstrated through bank statements, scholarship details, or letters from supporters.
All students must have Overseas Student Health Coverage (OSHC) to cover their medical expenses while in Australia. This can be purchased at the time of visa application or afterwards. Depending on your chosen course, you may also be required to undergo a medical examination and chest X-ray.
Application Process and Documentation
The application process for an Australian Student Visa may vary based on your citizenship. Once you are accepted into an IES Abroad program, you will receive step-by-step instructions in your MyIESabroad account. You will need to complete a visa application form through ImmiAccount, pay the relevant fees, and submit supporting documents such as the CoE, AASES form, and health examination report.
You will be required to provide evidence of sufficient funds to cover tuition fees, travel expenses, and living costs. This can be done by providing bank statements, evidence of scholarships, or a letter from your supporter detailing their occupation and annual income.
Police clearance certificates from all countries you have lived in for 12 months or more in the past 10 years will also be needed. Additionally, you must meet Australia’s character requirements by providing a statement explaining your commitment to your studies and your plans after completing them.
Work Rights and Part-Time Employment
Students on an Australian Student Visa can work up to 40 hours per fortnight while their course is in session, and unlimited hours during breaks and holidays. This applies to both paid and volunteer work, excluding family or volunteer work. A fortnight is a 14-day period, starting from Monday and ending on the following Sunday.
Many international students take up part-time jobs to manage their living expenses and gain practical work experience. Opportunities exist in various industries, from unskilled to skilled positions. The food industry is particularly popular, offering jobs such as cashiers, waiters/waitresses, and helpers with an average wage of around AUD 20 per hour.
It is important to note that international students must maintain their visa conditions when taking up employment. This includes staying enrolled with a CRICOS-registered education provider, attending classes regularly, and making satisfactory course progress. Students must also purchase Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) and balance their study and work commitments.
Post-Study Work Opportunities
Australia offers various post-study work visa options that allow international students to stay, explore, and gain experience in their chosen field of study. The Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) is the most popular option, granting working rights for up to six months or two to four years, depending on the student’s qualification.
To be eligible for this visa, your qualification must be listed on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students. Additionally, you must meet English language, health, character, and security requirements. The visa also allows your partner and family to join you in Australia while working or searching for employment.
These post-study work visa options make Australia an attractive destination for international students, offering a balance of world-class education and an excellent lifestyle. They also contribute to the growth of regional cities like Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane, creating more employment opportunities for all Australians.