Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)

 

Q: I am interested in studying in Australia. What do I do next?

A: First, check out IDP's Course Search , a tool which allows you to search all Australian universities for programs specific to your needs. Also, visit the Universities section of our site to learn more about specific schools. Finally and importantly, call our academic advisors toll free for personal assistance with your application or any questions.

 

Q: When should I apply?

A: Your application should be submitted as early as possible before the beginning of the semester in which you wish to commence. The closing dates are 01 December for semester 1 entry and 01 June for semester 2. These dates are intended as a guide only for tertiary institutions. The English schools and high schools have different intake and vary from school to school.

 

Q: I am ready to apply, now what?

A: Visit IDP's Course Search (especially helpful if you live outside Sydney region and can not get to our office), which allows you to prepare and submit applications for each university you are interested in. IDP handles the rest. You will be contacted by one of our academic advisors shortly after you have completed the application. If you are in Sydney, please feel free to visit our office, our bilingual professional counsellors will be able to give you free, expert advises.

 

Q: I have received an offer letter, now what?

A: You will need to accept the offer and pay your first semester fees to the university and we can assist you with the payment procedure. When you do so, you will also purchase the Overseas Student Health Cover policy from your host institution in order to obtain the "Confirmation of Enrollment" (COE) which is required by the Australian government prior to issuing your student visa.

 

Q: Can I apply for credit exemption?

A: Most of the universities would recognise the value or prior studies and in many cases will grant credit for previous studies.

If you wish to apply for credit transfer or advanced standing for your previous studies, you should complete the "University Credit exemption” form or the relevant section of the International Student Admission Application form. Please ensure that you send certified copies of the required documentation with your application form as part of the enrolment process. If you are awarded credit, you must still be enrolled in full-time study, as a condition of your student visa.

 

Q: What does the OSHC health insurance cover?

A: All students are required to purchase Australian Overseas Student Health Cover insurance in order to get a visa. This insurance covers you 100% for all hospital visits and 85% for doctor's fees. It also provides you with a 24-hour toll free telephone service for emergency and legal advice. Some prescription coverage is also included. Because this insurance plan only covers you in Australia, you may want to continue your own medical insurance coverage or take advantage of the insurance that comes with the International Student Identification Card (ISIC) that can be obtained through STA Travel (this only applies to certain nationality).

 

Q: What is a "Confirmation of Enrolment"?

A: This is a document issued by the Australian university that states that you are enrolled as a student. This document is required by the Australian government in order to issue your student visa.

 

Q: What sort of documents do I need to submit when applying for student visa?

A: These are the essential documents you should have when applying for student visa:

· A copy of the electronic “Confirmation of Enrolment as an Overseas Student” eCoE letter

· Your passport

· Evidence of Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) payment

· Attendance certificate of your last course or evidence you have successfully complete your last course

· Evidence that you have sufficient funds to support yourself for the duration of your course of study

Students from non-gazette countries will have to go through the Preliminary Visa Assessment (PVA) and should contact the nearest Australian Diplomatic Mission to find out the exact procedures.

 

Q: Can I work in Australia?

A: Under the terms of the student visa, international students must apply for a work rights visa (application charge of AUD$55) at DIAC and tax file number from Australian Taxation Office after commencing studies. This allows students to work up to 20 hours a week during academic semesters and full-time during vacation periods. Please note that part-time and vacation work are not always readily available, and that the Australian Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) may decline applications for work rights visas if they suspect the student is depending on this income for support. In planning your finances it is unwise to depend on the availability of part-time work in order to support yourself.

 

Q: Cost of living and tuition fees

A: The living cost varies from student to student depending on their lifestyle and state preferences.

As a guide, the estimated annual cost for a student comes to a total of approximately AU$13,000

Please be reminded that this is intended to be used as a guide only when preparing a budget according to their individual needs but this should be flexible enough to allow for changes.

Textbook costs can vary considerably from AU$200-AU$600 per year depending on the units/courses chosen.

Please note that tuition fees are different for different degrees.

 

Q: If I am an international student, are there any English Language requirements for entry or for the student visa?

A: If you are a non-native English speaker and do not have a Bachelors or higher education degree from Australia, America or the UK, then you may be required to take the International English Language Test (IELTS) as a visa requirement. As for entry into a university, each program will have different requirements. Please contact IDP with additional questions. Visit the IELTS website for test center locations.

 

Q: Do I need a medical exam before going to Australia or re-new my student visa?

A: In either cases, you need to have a physical exam and a chest x-ray if your program in Australia is over 12 months in length.

 

Q: What are the fees for IDP's advisory services?

A: None! All of our services are provided at no charge to you!