Australia is one of the best higher education hubs in the world. Due to its relaxed entry requirements, attractive scholarships, and stay back for a few years, it helps students gain experience and repay student loans.
Step 1: Entrance Tests
The students from non-English speaking countries must take English language tests to get admission. Most universities prefer IELTS. The minimum overall score should be 6.5 with no bands less than 6.00. There are a plethora of free resources to prepare for the same. The one I used was edX's free course for my preparation is https://www.edx.org/course/ielts-academic-test-preparation.
Step 2: Shortlisting Universities and Programs
Shortlist universities and programs according to your preference. Some of the criteria to consider are the course structure, graduate employment, research, student support, alumni network, your budget, the scope of your course back home, etc. The entry for the programs is flexible so that you can change your domain.
Step 3: Applying to the Universities
The application process is pretty straightforward. Firstly, create an account, fill in the details, and submit the required documents. Most universities have a support system to help with the application make use of it.
Step 4: Receiving the offer and paying the deposit
You'll receive mail about your application status. The acceptance rate for Aussie universities is pretty high compared to the US. If you get accepted, you might receive scholarships from the universities. Don't panic! There are scholarships for your previous academic credentials and your place of origin. It entirely depends on the universities and programs you apply to. Then you need to accept the offer and pay the deposit, which is a part of your first-semester fee and accept the offer.
Step 5: Receiving COE and taking OSHC
After accepting the offer, you'll receive your Confirmation of Enrollment(COE) from the university. Then you need to arrange for Overseas Student Health Insurance(OSHC). You can refer to the website to compare the different insurance providers to choose the best fit for your needs https://oshcaustralia.com.au/en.
Step 6: Applying for the visa
The Australian embassy needs to know whether you can support your education fee and living expenses for the entire course of your study. The application process is entirely online. You need to submit proof of income, Charted accountant statement of your family's net worth, a notarized affidavit of the sponsorship statement, and other documents.
The visa processing time may vary. Don't be tempted; meanwhile, you can access the student email provided by the university. Talk with the seniors, professors, and your classmates. Join the university discord groups to make friends, join the clubs, and have an idea about your study and culture of Australia.
Step 7: Booking flight and Arranging Accommodation
After receiving the visa, you can book your flights to Australia. It is recommended to arrive two weeks before the program commences. You can enter Australia even three months before. Use student privilege in airlines to get extra baggage allowance and ticket discounts. The next thing is to look for accommodation, check out the recommendations by your university, and make a lease. Make sure the place falls into your budget and is nearer to your university.
Happy Journey to Australia!
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