Frequently Asked Questions
Browse our FAQ section below to find some answers to common questions:
I already have a degree or diploma in my home country. Can I get credit points if I want to further my study?
- Most colleges will credit you for work already undertaken.
What is the age limit to study in Australia?
- There is no age limit to make an application for a student visa to study in Australia.
How soon can I arrive in Australia?
- You can arrive up to 90 days before your course starts but you cannot start work until you have started your course
How long does the visa last?
- Your student visa will last for the duration of your course and for a period at the end, usually one or two months. If your course finishes in December your visa is usually granted till 15th march the following year.
When do the courses start?
- Most intakes are bi-annually although because of the demand many courses start monthly.
How long is an academic week?
- Trade courses are delivered 20 hours per week. This is usually conducted over 2.5 days although some colleges deliver over 4 shorter days.
What is vocational placement?
- Vocational placement is usually part of your trade course and is conducted within the 20 hours per week where your college sends you out to business to gain on the job training
Can I work as well as study?
- Students are allowed to work 20 hours per week for the duration of their course. During semester breaks you are allowed to work unlimited hours. Remember that even though your visa is granted with restricted work rights you cannot start work until your actual course has begun.
Can I take my partner?
- It is possible to take your partner as a dependant on your student visa provided you can prove you have been in a genuine and exclusive relationship for at least 12 months.
Can my partner work?
- Your partner can work restricted to 20 hours per week if you are enrolled in a vocational or university course. If the Student is enrolled in a Masters degree or higher your partner has unrestricted work rights
Can my children attend school while I study?
- All children above the age of five must attend school. Children must be enrolled with either state schools or private colleges before your visa is granted. School fees apply but vary between the different States. Contact us for current tuition fees. Children below five can attend preschool centres.
What is OSHC cover and do I need it?
- Before your visa is granted you will need to show that you are covered by medical insurance taken out with an Australian approved health fund that covers you for medical and hospital costs while you are in Australia. This is called Overseas Health Cover (OSHC) and is a requirement for obtaining a student visa. OSHC cover is basic and satisfies the visa requirement, however you can upgrade this policy. This is usually quoted and paid to your Education Provider. The amount will be clearly shown on your Letter Of Offer. You can choose to arrange this yourself but as the pricing is no different, Students tend to let their Education Provider arrange on their behalf.
Cost Single ( OSHC) for 1 year is $400
Family (OSHC) for 1 year is $780
- Before your visa is granted you will need to show that you are covered by medical insurance taken out with an Australian approved health fund that covers you for medical and hospital costs while you are in Australia. This is called Overseas Health Cover (OSHC) and is a requirement for obtaining a student visa. OSHC cover is basic and satisfies the visa requirement, however you can upgrade this policy. This is usually quoted and paid to your Education Provider. The amount will be clearly shown on your Letter Of Offer. You can choose to arrange this yourself but as the pricing is no different, Students tend to let their Education Provider arrange on their behalf.
How do I apply for a student visa?
- You can apply for a student visa once you have a (C.O.E) Confirmation of Enrolment from a CRICOS registered college. The COE will confirm your OSHC status and reach the other criteria pertaining to your country of origin. Visa processing times vary between Countries. Contact us for information regarding your country of origin and the criteria. We can assist you with your application.

