Why Study in Australia
You probably know family and friends who have studied in Australia, and they would all have positive things to say about the time they spent there!
There’s a reason why it’s the world’s third most popular international student destination. Australia’s mix of natural beauty, cosmopolitan cities and multicultural population means it provides a unique environment for you to live and study. It’s not hard to see why the lifestyle in Australia is envied across the globe.
Australian education in numbers*
- 8 of Australia’s universities are ranked in the top 100 worldwide
- 5 Australian cities are ranked in the top 30 best student cities worldwide
- 2.5 million international alumni of Australian institutions
- 15 Nobel Prize laureates
- 22,000 courses across 11,000 institutions
- $200,000,000 in Australian Government scholarships available
*Source: Study In Australia: https://www.studyinaustralia.gov.au/english/why-australia
Your study in Australia timeline
At SSD we’ll provide guidance and advice every step of the way to ensure your study in Australia experience is as seamless as possible.
Identify the course that best suits your academic needs and career goals. Consider the field of study, level of qualification, course duration and where you want to study.
2. Course SelectionSearch our database of registered courses and institutions and select the ones that best match your study plan and preferred destination.
3. Admission ApplicationApply for admission to the institution offering the course of your choice. You may be asked to provide evidence of your academic achievements and English proficiency.
4. Visa ApplicationTo be granted a student visa you must complete an application form, pay the visa application charge and satisfy the student visa requirements. All students must have medical insurance before they apply for a student visa.
5. Pre-departureSSD can arrange a ‘welcome’ pack and our website provides comprehensive information about studying and living in Australia.
6. Arrival & ReceptionSSD can arrange to meet and assist you when you first arrive and provide ongoing support. Your university will also provide an orientation program to help you get settled.
Accommodation and Living Expenses
SSD can connect you with affordable student accommodation that caters to all budgets, lifestyles and preferences. Your university can also recommend you both on-campus and off-campus accommodation options.
Estimated accommodation costs
- Hostels and Guesthouses - $90 to $150 per week
- Shared Rental - $85 to $215 per week
- On campus - $90 to $280 per week
- Homestay - $235 to $325 per week
- Rental - $165 to $440 per week
Other living expenses
- Groceries and eating out - $80 to $280 per week
- Gas, electricity - $35 to $140 per week
- Phone and Internet - $20 to $55 per week
- Public transport - $15 to $55 per week
- Car (after purchase) - $150 to $260 per week
- Entertainment - $80 to $150 per week
Money Matters
One of the first things you will want to do when you arrive is to open a bank account with a bank on or near your campus. In order to do this you will need to provide the bank with identification and in Australia there is a ‘100 point check’ required.
| Current Passport | 70 points |
|---|---|
| Identification card issued by a tertiary education institution | 40 points |
| Letter from current Employer | 35 points |
| Overseas or International Drivers Licence or Proof of Age Card | 25 points |
| Current Rate Notice (eg: telephone, water, electricity) | 35 points |
| Statement from landlord or managing agent | 25 points |
Studying in Australia can be made easier with getting financial assistance such as loans that cover tuition fees, personal loans and car loans.
Any of the major banks in Australia will be able to assist you with your loan requirements. We suggest you compare interest rates and loan conditions in order to attain the best possible loan for your needs.
Health and Safety
Australia is generally a safe place to live and study. The OECD Better Life Index rated Australia 9.3 out of 10 for safety, one of the highest ratings awarded to any country. But it’s still important to look after yourself and be aware of the risks that exist – and ways to minimise them. This is particularly important for when you first arrive and are adjusting to your new way of life.
Following your common sense and best practices will ensure you remain safe and healthy, whether you are handling emergencies, personal and home safety, or natural elements such as sun, water, and fire. Most universities have an on-campus medical centre with doctors. All other campuses have at least a trained first aid officer and rooms for sick or injured students waiting for a doctor to arrive in emergencies.
There are medical centres and hospitals throughout all cities and towns, including many in suburban areas. There are 24 hour emergency centres at hospitals and in some suburbs.
You’ll need insurance
As an international student, it’s a condition of your student visa that you maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire duration of your stay. OSHC covers some medical services (see your policy for specific details).
Your OSHC must be arranged before departure for Australia and covers you from the moment you arrive. You’ll need to pick up your OSHC card from your health care. Ask your institution's International Student Office for assistance.