The Australian International Student Visa Application Process

Applying to Australian institutions is easy, but it will take some time and careful planning. Check the application due dates with your education provider, as these may differ for each provider. Make a note of important deadlines, allowing for postage times, and ensure you meet them. There are many elements to bring together when starting your Australian education and it is important to be thorough and on-time.

Starting the application

Once you have chosen your course and found an education provider that matches your criteria, it’s time to apply.

International students usually apply directly to Australian institutions, either by post or online. You can download application forms from institutions’ websites or request the forms to be posted to you. Another option is to contact an education agent in your country or an overseas representative of the institution to which you are applying.

Most application forms require you to supply:

• your personal details
• certified proof of your level of English language proficiency
• details of your previous academic qualifications, such as academic transcripts
• your course preferences
• a summary of your employment experience (if applicable).

If you are still completing your education, you can provide evidence of your most recent grades until it is possible to provide your final results. If the documents you supply are not in English, you must provide an official certified translation.

The provider you choose will have specific English language entry requirements. If you do not meet the entry requirements, you may need to consider a different course or apply for bridging or foundation study, which may improve your chances.

Most institutions charge a non-refundable application fee that must be included with your application. Before sending your application, check your visa requirements with your local Australian visa office or online at the Department of Immigration and Border Protection (DIBP) website to ensure you will qualify for a visa if your application is successful. If, at any time during the application process, you are uncertain about how to proceed, don’t hesitate to contact your education provider — they are there to help you.

What happens next?

Once the education provider receives and assesses your application, you will be notified of the result. It may take a few weeks, but once your application is accepted, you will receive a letter of offer and an acceptance form.

Carefully read the letter of offer and check any conditions that may apply. You will need to meet these conditions before the institution issues a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). You may also be required to pay a portion of your tuition fees before your institution issues a CoE.

Applying for a student visa

Now that you have been accepted, it’s time to apply for a student visa. You can apply for your student visa using either your letter of offer, however you will need to supply evidence of your CoE before your student visa is granted.

Your education provider will typically send you an admissions package with information that will help you prepare for your journey to Australia. This might include information about your accommodation options, facts about the location, financial information and details about orientation programs.

You must also purchase your plane tickets, organise your Overseas Student Health Cover and start thinking about your accommodation in Australia.