Study in Australia Frequently Asked Questions
I already have a degree or diploma in my own 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 each week do I have to attend college?
Trade courses are delivered 20 hours per week. This is usually conducted over 2.5 days although some colleges deliver over 4 days.
What is vocational placement?
Vocational placement is usually part of your 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 work 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 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.
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
Can I apply for Permanent Residency once I finish my course?
At present depending on the course you have successfully completed, relevant work experience and English language ability, you may meet the requirements for a successful assessment. This contributes to meeting the criteria for a valid application.
Can I apply for another visa once my course ends?
Skilled – Graduate visa (subclass 485). This visa was introduced in 2007 to give overseas students who have completed at least two years of study, but who do not meet the requirements for a permanent General Skilled Migration visa, the opportunity to remain in Australia for up to 18 months after they finish their course and gain additional skills requirement.
For an applicant to be eligible for the Skilled – Graduate Visa (subclass 485) they must:
- Hold an eligible student visa for Australia, or have held one in the past six months
- Have studied in Australia for a minimum period of two years
- Nominate a 50 or 60 point occupation from the Skilled Occupations List
- Have applied to have their skills assessed for their nominated occupation
- Have competent levels of English
- Must be aged 18 - 45
If granted the visa it is valid for 18 months. This visa gives unrestricted work rights to you and any dependants. For Students with school aged children, school fees become free.
For information on Skilled Migration we offer a free consultation by phone with one of our registered Migration Agents based in Australia, Simply contact us to arrange an appropriate time.