Studying In Australia
All you need to know before beginning your student journey in the land Down Under.
From student visas, to getting your bank, accomodation, and health insurance set up, this is your one stop shop!
Student Life in Australia
Lifestyle
When it comes to lifestyle, Australia offers the perfect blend of an energetic culture and a laid-back attitude.
One thing is for sure, Aussies know how to kick back and enjoy life!
Study/Life Balance
You can expect a laid-back atmosphere where you can balance your studies with outdoor adventures, relaxing at the worlds most stunning beaches, dining experiences, and making lifelong memories with friends.
Multiculturalism
The multicultural nature of Australian society means you’ll find communities that share your background and at the same time, have the opportunity to engage with people from all around the world.
Hear directly from our students on what life is like at AIBI Higher Education, as well as life as an international student in Australia.
Get to know Subi, Manish, Sornim, and Bipan as they talk about what they love most about studying here, the cultural experiences they’ve had, and how it was adjusting to life in sunny Australia!
Population Diversity
Did you know that as of 2022, 7.7 million people living in Australia were born overseas.
That’s 29.5% of Australia’s total population!
Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics
A Wonder of the World
The Great Barrier Reef, the world’s largest coral reef system, stretching over 2,300 kilometres.
It’s so big that it can even be seen from space!
Source: Wikepedia
Over 10,500 Beaches
There are so many beaches in Australia, that if you were to visit one every day, it would take you over 29 years to see them all.
That’s a lot of years!
Australian Aboriginal Flag
First Nations People of Australia
Australian Aboriginal Flag
Torres Strait Islander Flag
Getting Your Australian
Student Visa
Since you’ll be studying in Australia for more than four months, you will need to apply for a student visa. Below are is a list of necessary documents you’ll need when applying for your visa.
Valid Passport
Don’t forget to check your passport’s expiry date; you’ll need at least six months left before jetting off to Australia.
CoE (Confirmation of Enrolment)
Make sure you’ve got your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from the AIBI HE Admissions team before applying for your student visa application. This document confirms you’re enrolled, have paid your tuition fees, and have already got OSHC.
OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover)
Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is a requirement for all international students. Remember to take note of your policy provider’s info, start and end dates, and policy number when applying for your visa.
GTE (Genuine Temporary Entrant) Requirement
You must prove that you intend to stay in Australia temporarily by providing evidence like employment history, qualifications, and ties to your home country when applying for your visa.
English Proficiency
You will need to demonstrate the required level of English proficiency. This can be demonstrated with evidence of one of the accepted methods listed on our ELP list.
Financial Requirements
It’s essential that you have enough finances for at least a year (for subclass 500 visas). If you’ve got family joining you, adjust your financial plan accordingly, or prove your parents can support you.
Arrangements For Under 18s
If you’re under 18, make sure you’ve got the necessary documents to ensure your well-being in Australia. This includes appointing a guardian and obtaining a Confirmation of Appropriate Accommodation and Welfare (CAAW) until you come of age.
Overseas Student Health Cover
OSHC is mandatory health insurance for international students in Australia, covering medical expenses, hospitalisation, and prescription medications.
It’s a visa requirement for international students, ensuring they have access to necessary healthcare services during their stay.
OSHC plans vary in coverage levels, and students must maintain valid OSHC for the entire duration of their study to comply with visa conditions and safeguard their health.
How Do I Find A Doctor?
Your chosen OSHC provider should be able to provide you with a list of suggested healthcare providers. You can also check for doctors close to where you choose to live.
Healthengine’s website is another resource that can assist you in finding a doctor.
Emergency Services Number
Selecting Accommodation
Searching for accommodation can be a stressful time, especially when you first arrive to a country. Typically, our students opt for private rentals (shared), or student-only accommodation. Rent prices vary depending on your personal preference, but it’s always good to familiarise yourself with the market before you arrive.
Factors to Consider
• Is it in a safe area?
• How close is it to campus?
• Is there public transport close by?
• How much will commuting cost every week?
• Are bills included in my rent? If not, how much extra will they cost?
Additional bills include; electricity, bins, wifi, etc.
Tips to Follow
Make sure you have enough money to cover your rental bond. The bond is a security deposit and usually amounts to 2-4 weeks of rent.
Always view the property before you pay your deposit or sign a contract.
Take photos of all pre-existing damage and issues on the property.
Store your own copy of your rental agreement and all payment receipts throughout your residency.
Rental Scams
Never share sensitive details like bank, credit card, or driver’s license information. Legitimate landlords won’t ask for excessive personal data upfront.
Research the property and landlord/agency online. Verify that the property exists through reputable real estate websites.
Insist on viewing the property in person before committing to any payments.
Be cautious of landlords/agents who only communicate online and avoid physical meetings.
Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true. Avoid rushed transactions and pressure tactics from landlords.
Utilise official rental agencies or student accommodation services.
Setting Up Your
Australian Bank Account
One of the first things you should do when you arrive in Australia is to set up your Australian bank account. Not only will you need this account to get paid for working, but it’s often a requirement to have an Australian account when applying for rental properties as well.
Setting up an account is easy and doesn’t take long! There are plenty of banks for you to choose from such as:
• Commonwealth Bank (CBA)
• National Australia Bank (NAB)
• Australia and New Zealand Banking Group (ANZ)
• Westpac
What You’ll Need
2. Your Tax File Number (TFN)
3. Proof of Australian address
4. Proof of enrolment
5. Driver’s licence (if you have one)
Note: all documentation will have to be translated into English. Visit the DFAT website for more information.
Working in Australia
Student visa holders are allowed to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study terms and semesters. However, they have the flexibility to work full-time (38 hours per week) during holiday periods.
In addition to needing a Tax File Number (TFN) for opening your bank account, you’ll also need it before you start working to make sure your earnings are taxed correctly. If you are taxed incorrectly at any stage throughout the year, you can submit a tax return at the end of the financial year to have these funds returned to your account.
Knowing Your Workplace Rights
Before engaging in work, it’s important that you familiarise yourself with Australian workplace rights. Knowing your rights will help you to steer clear of being exploited in the workplace.
The Fair Work Ombudsman
The Fair Work Ombudsman is your go-to for workplace advice in Australia, providing free services for employees, including international students. Contacting them won’t lead to any trouble or visa issues.
Tips For Improving Your English
There are plenty of ways to continue learning and improving your English while studying in Australia.
Some of our tips include:
• Read, write and listen to English content. This includes books/novels, journaling, podcasts, audiobooks, movies etc.
• Join a language group, either online or in person. There are plenty of student English language groups around Sydney!
• Become part of a sports group, this is a great way to meet other nationalities and work on your English skills.
• Speak in English when with your friends, and even text them in English if they also want to improve.
Beach & Water Safety
It’s pretty much guaranteed that you will find yourself at a beach during your time in Australia, and while we all love soaking up the sun and jumping into the water to cool down, it can be dangerous if you don’t take the right precautions.
Below are some top tips to make sure you stay safe during your visits to the Australia’s beautiful beaches!
Swim in Designated Areas
Stick to designated swimming zones with lifeguards, and avoid areas with strong currents or rip tides.
These designated areas are there for your safety.
Swim With a Friend
Always swim with a friend. This ensures that someone is looking out for you, and vice versa.
In case of an emergency, being with a friend can make a significant difference.
Wear Your Sunscreen
The UV index is typically quite high in Australia, protect your skin from harmful UV rays by applying sunscreen regularly.
Wear a hat and sunglasses to shield your face and eyes.
Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially on hot days.
Dehydration can sneak up on you, and it’s essential to drink plenty of water, especially when spending time in the sun.
Why Wait Any Longer?
If you’re sold on student life in Australia, you can contact our Student Recruitment Team to learn more about our courses and how to begin your journey as an AIBI HE student in Australia!