10 Tips for a Great Student Visa Application

You’ve found your dream course, decided which Australian city you’ll settle in, and now you’re already starting to think about the application process. There are a few important factors to consider when putting together your student visa application, from choosing the right institution, to health and character requirements, and proof of finances. While it may seem a little daunting, with a few good tips up your sleeve, you can be sure to ace your student visa application.

1. UNDERSTAND THE REQUIREMENTS 

Before you begin the application process, make sure you’re fully able to study in Australia, as there are a few requirements you’ll need to meet. These include, but are not limited to:

• Financial stability. It’s fundamental that you can prove to the Australian Government that you can afford to stay in Australia, so make sure to check the financial requirements before applying.
• English language competence. You’ll need to have a pretty good grip on written and spoken English to be able to study in Australia, and it’s likely you’ll need to prove it. Check out the Australian Government website for more information.
• Academic requirements. You might need to meet certain grades or achievements to gain entry into a course. Different institutions might have their own grade requirements, so make sure to do your research and contact the institution if necessary.

2. CHOOSE YOUR INSTITUTION WISELY
 
In order to gain a student visa in Australia, your institution needs to be CRICOS registered. What exactly does this mean? CRICOS stands for ‘Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students’, but put simply, it’s a list of Australian education providers that recruit, enrol and teach overseas students. By checking that your institution is on the list, you can be sure it’s a legitimate operation.

3. MAKE SURE YOUR CHOSEN COURSE FITS THE REQUIREMENTS

To qualify for a student visa in Australia, you need to be studying a full-time course that’s at least three months long. You must also be enrolling in one of the following levels of education:

• Primary school or high school
• Short course
• Intensive English Language course
• Vocational education and training course
• Higher-education tertiary course
• Post-graduate research

4. RESEARCH THE APPLICATION PROCESS

Different institutions have their own requirements when it comes to applying to study. For example, some require you to apply via a qualified agent. We recommend contacting your chosen institution for information well before you start your application so that you can be sure you’re following the right steps.

5. WAIT FOR YOUR COE BEFORE APPLYING FOR A VISA

You must have a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from your chosen institution before applying for a visa. You’ll need to provide this during the visa application process, so make sure you’ve received the official document before starting your visa application.

6. GET YOUR HEALTH EXAMINATION DONE EARLY

The Australian Government requires that you complete a health examination in order to apply for a visa. It’s worth getting this done early to avoid having to rush the examination or risk slowing down your application process. Make sure to check out the Australian Government website for more information on the health examination.

7. DON’T FORGET ABOUT HEALTH INSURANCE
Speaking of health, you’ll need to have health insurance for the duration of your studies in Australia. This will cover any medical expenses you incur during your stay or any hospital cover. Your chosen institution might organise health insurance on your behalf, or you can choose your own provider. Make sure to check with your institution before applying.

Note: Students from Norway, Sweden and Belgium are exempt from this rule due to different healthcare agreements. You can find more information on the Australian Government’s website.

8. HAVE YOUR DOCUMENTS READY

This is where it pays to prepare early. The Australian Government has put together a handy list of documents you’ll need for your application, such as English language requirements, proof of health insurance, financial records, and more. Pull these documents together well before you need to start your application to ensure you have everything you need.

9. REVISE, REVISE, REVISE

This might go without saying, but once you’ve completed your application, read through it again to check for any errors. You don’t want your visa application to be held up or rejected because of an easily fixable mistake!

10. PREPARE FOR YOUR INTERVIEW

Just like a job interview, it helps to prepare for the interview associated with your student visa. Here are a few tips:

• Make sure you know your application in great detail, especially your Statement of Purpose — there’s a good chance you’ll be asked questions that relate to this.
• Research the kinds of questions you might be asked. Potential topics include why you chose to study in Australia, how you’ll remain financially stable, and what you’ll do once you complete your studies.
• Do a practice interview with a family member or friend so you can familiarise yourself with your answers.
• Appear confident during the interview, because the immigration official will be watching to see if you can confidently handle your studies in Australia.

Good luck!