The international student application process

Applying to Australian institutions is easy, but it willtake some time and careful planning. Check the application due dates with youreducation provider, as these may differ for each provider. Make a note ofimportant deadlines, allowing for postage times, and ensure you meet them.There are many elements to bring together when starting your Australianeducation and it is important to be thorough and on-time.

Starting the application

Once you have chosen your course and found an educationprovider that matches your criteria, it’s time to apply.

International students usually apply directly to Australianinstitutions, either by post or online. You can download application forms frominstitutions’ websites or request the forms to be posted to you. Another optionis to contact an education agent in your country or an overseas representativeof the institution to which you are applying.

Most application forms require you to supply:

• your personal details
• certified proof of your level of English languageproficiency
• details of your previous academic qualifications, such asacademic transcripts
• your course preferences
• a summary of your employment experience (if applicable).

If you are still completing your education, you can provideevidence of your most recent grades until it is possible to provide your finalresults. If the documents you supply are not in English, you must provide anofficial certified translation.

The provider you choose will have specific English languageentry requirements. If you do not meet the entry requirements, you may need toconsider a different course or apply for bridging or foundation study, whichmay improve your chances.

Most institutions charge a non-refundable application feethat must be included with your application. Before sending your application,check your visa requirements with your local Australian visa office or onlineat the Department of Immigration and Border Protection (DIBP) website to ensureyou will qualify for a visa if your application is successful. If, at any timeduring the application process, you are uncertain about how to proceed, don’t hesitateto contact your education provider — they are there to help you.

What happens next?

Once the education provider receives and assesses yourapplication, you will be notified of the result. It may take a few weeks, butonce your application is accepted, you will receive a letter of offer and anacceptance form.

Carefully read the letter of offer and check any conditionsthat may apply. You will need to meet these conditions before the institutionissues a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). You may also be required to pay aportion of your tuition fees before your institution issues a CoE.

Applying for a student visa

Now that you have been accepted, it’s time to apply for astudent visa. You can apply for your student visa using either your letter ofoffer, however you will need to supply evidence of your CoE before your studentvisa is granted.

Your education provider will typically send you anadmissions package with information that will help you prepare for your journeyto Australia. This might include information about your accommodation options,facts about the location, financial information and details about orientationprograms.

You must also purchase your plane tickets, organise your OverseasStudent Health Cover and start thinking about your accommodation in Australia.

Useful Links:

Howto write a CV when studying and working in Australia

Aninternational student’s guide to changing courses and education providers