Frequently asked questions – Studying in Australia
Studying in Australia
What kind of visa do I need to study in Australia?
To study in Australia as an international student, you need to apply for a student visa. To be eligible for a student visa, you need to meet the conditions set by the Australian Government Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC). To find out more about student visa requirements, visit the DIAC website at www.immi.gov.au/students.
^topWhat is OSHC and do I need it?
OSHC is insurance that provides cover on the costs for medical and hospital care which international students may need while in Australia. OSHC will also pay for most prescription drugs and emergency ambulance transport.
The Australian Government requires all international students on a student visa and their dependants to purchase an approved Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) policy from a registered health benefits organisation (usually referred to as a health fund) for the duration of their visas.
^topCan I work while I study?
As an international student, you can work in paid employment for up to 20 hours a week, and unlimited hours during vacation periods at your institution. You can apply for permission to work once your course has started. You must apply to DIAC for permission to work.
You should not rely on working to fund your tuition or living expenses while in Australia as work cannot be guaranteed and spending excessive amounts of time working may adversely affect your studies. For more information visit www.immi.gov.au/students/students/working_while_studying/index.htm. Some institutions provide guidance about local employment opportunities - check each institution's entry for more information.
^topHow can I find out about accommodation?
Students may choose to live alone, share with a friend, or board at a hostel.
Australian Catholic University - visit www.acu.edu.au/international/accommodation.
Australian Maritime College - visit www.utas.edu.au/accommodation/.
Australian National University - visit http://accom.anu.edu.au/.
Charles Sturt University - visit www.csu.edu.au/division/internat/information/regional_accomm.htm.
Griffith University - visit www.griffith.edu.au/ocs/accommodation.
La Trobe University - visit www.latrobe.edu.au/aw/accommodation/index.html.
Macquarie University - visit www.international.mq.edu.au/accommodation.
Southern Cross University - visit www.scu.edu.au or contact the International Office on +61 2 6620 3876 or email intoff@scu.edu.au.
University of Canberra visit www.canberra.edu.au/residences or contact Residential Services: email residences@canberra.edu.au, call +61 2 6206 3500 or fax +61 2 6206 3504
University of New England - visit www.une.edu.au/imp/accommodation/about.php.
University of New South Wales - visit www.housing.unsw.edu.au.
University of Newcastle - visit www.newcastle.edu.au/service/studentsupport/.
University of Sydney - visit www.usyd.edu.au/accom.
University of Technology, Sydney - visit www.housing.uts.edu.au.
University of Western Sydney - visit http://pubsites.uws.edu.au/international/accommodation/campuses.html.
University of Wollongong - visit www.uow.edu.au/prospective/international/prearrival/accommodation/index.html.
^topWill anybody be able to meet me when I arrive in Australia?
Most institutions have airport reception programmes. Check each institution's entry for further information.
^topHow much do courses cost in Australia?
Each institution sets its own tuition fees for each course, so fees vary between institutions and courses. Check the course search for information on fees (these fees are indicative only and subject to change. In general, course fees are based on an average course load, which may vary depending on your exact enrolment).
For more information about tuition fees read Money matters.
^topHow much money will I need to bring with me?
You will need between A$12 000 and A$18 000 a year to cover your living expenses. This is a rough guide only and will depend on many things, including where you live (for example in Sydney, in outer Sydney, in regional NSW or in Canberra); the type of accommodation you live in; and your lifestyle. Read Money matters for more information.
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