FAQ
10 FAQ's on Australia, and living in Australia
- Do Australian universities have term breaks that are long enough for me to go home for holidays?
- How do I find out about accommodation in Australia?
- How much money should I save to come to Australia?
- How will I know where to go when I first get off the plane?
- If I have already had a student visa to study in Australia, can I receive another one?
- If I really love it in Australia, will I be able to stay once I have finished my course?
- Is it possible to transfer from my current course to a similar course in Australia?
- What if I get to Australia and don’t like it?
- When is the best time to apply to study in Australia?
- Which semester can I apply to study in Australia?
1. Do Australian universities have term breaks that are long enough for me to go home for holidays?
Yes. Whilst university dates vary slightly around the country it is standard for students to have a three months break over Christmas, with a two week holiday in the middle of the year, and a one to two week mid semester respite.
2. How do I find out about accommodation in Australia?
The best way to find out about your accommodation options is to contact the university’s housing office. There you will find information about relevant costs and alternatives in your chosen location. Often they can provide temporary living quarters when you first arrive until you have finalised your permanent living arrangement. They will have details of renting and shareboarding choices as well as university-based opportunities.
3. How much money should I save to come to Australia?
According to the Australia Government website (http://www.studyinaustralia.gov.au/Sia/en/StudyCosts/LivingCosts), the average international student will spend approximately $A335 (£137) a week on living costs, including accommodation, shopping, transport and entertainment. This could be between $A16,000 (£6,500) to $20,000 (£8,200) a year depending on location and lifestyle. As part of the student visa a student can work up to 20 hours per week and full-time during the holidays, so remember working can certainly contribute to living costs.
Study fees and costs are additional to this. Whilst this figure can vary dependent on location and lifestyle, it provides a useful starting point. Approximate study fees are given on the Study Costspage of this website, under the Studying in Australia menu.
4. How will I know where to go when I first get off the plane?
The university international student office will have provided you with all the information you will need for when you first arrive. In many instances there will be a representative at the airport to meet you and welcome you to Australia.
5. If I have already had a student visa to study in Australia, can I receive another one?
Yes, UK citizens can apply for another student visa to study in Australia, even if they have had one before. Please note it must be within reason. Check out the Visa Information webpage for more details.
6. If I really love it in Australia, will I be able to stay once I have finished my course?
For all the information on this subject the best place to look is the Department of Immigration and Multicultural and Indigenous Affairs website at www.immi.gov.au . The website outlines all of the options available to you and residency application procedures.
7. Is it possible to transfer from my current course to a similar course in Australia?
A transfer from current UK courses to an equivalent course in Australia is definitely possible. This is called ‘applying for a credit transfer.’ To do this a student will need to ensure that the completed modules/units are listed on their application form. The university will then make a decision as to where best place the student in the corresponding Australian course. Transfers are available at the university’s discretion, it is important therefore to make sure as much information as possible is included in the application. The application will also take more time, so it is advisable that it is submitted as early as possible.
8. What if I get to Australia and don’t like it?
It can take a period of time to get accustomed to any new environment. It is important to give yourself a chance to become acclimatised and start to enjoy everything that is on offer. On the off chance that Australia is not for you, you will still have all the benefits of having gained an international education, and the knowledge that you tried something new and different. These advantages should make it all seem worthwhile when you are back in the UK and experiencing the benefits. And remember, Australia is no longer a convict settlement, you are free to leave as you desire!
9. When is the best time to apply to study in Australia?
There are no official cut-off dates to apply to a university in Australia, though the earlier a student sends in their application the better. UK school students cannot apply until they have received their A Level or equivalent exam results, and UK university students cannot apply until they have received their degree results.
10. Which semester can I apply to study in Australia?
There are generally two semesters (Semester 1- February to June, and Semester 2- July to November) per year at Australian universities, and as an international student, applications are accepted for either semester. Students are encouraged to apply as early as possible; this could be up to 6 months in advance.