Australia remains a preferred option for international students including Indians. 9 of the world’s top 100 universities, 95% of universities ranked globally and 6 of the world’s top 50 student cities are there in Australia. International students get the opportunity to work in Australia while studying.
In an online interview with Financial Express Online, Sauarbh Goel, CEO & Co-Founder, amberstudent.com, gives a bird’s eye view of Australia’s education system when it comes to the cost of education, when to start applying for different courses, and where to stay in Australia while studying.
Is Australia a top choice for Indian students seeking international educational opportunities?
The growth in the number of Indian students choosing Australia as their study destination has been remarkable. Australian universities ranked as the third most preferred study destination by Indian students, have experienced a substantial increase in applications from India in recent years.
This growth can be attributed to several factors, including the world-class education offered by Australian institutions, the multicultural environment, and the attractive post-study work opportunities available for international students.
Notably, the universities in and around Melbourne and Sydney attracted the highest number of Indian students, with a significant enrollment.
However, other popular Australian cities like Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth, Canberra, and more also witnessed substantial participation from Indian students. This indicates the widespread appeal of Australian education across various regions and cities, making it a top choice for Indian students seeking international educational opportunities.
To provide specific statistics, the number of temporary student visas issued in Australia reached an all-time high of 654,870 in July 2023 (according to Australia Visa News). This number is an increase of 300,000 over the previous year.
What is the cost of education for Indian students in Australia? When should they start applying for UG, PG, and Masters courses?
According to Study Australia, the official government site for international students, the typical annual tuition fees for international students as:
Undergraduate bachelor degree – AUD 20,000 (USD13,675) to AUD 45,000 (USD30,769);
Postgraduate masters degree – AUD 22,000 (USD15,045) to AUD 50,000 (USD34,192);
Doctoral degree – AUD 20,000 (USD13,675) to AUD 42,000 (USD28,721). ( 1 US Dollar is nearly Rs 84)
The academic calendar in Australia typically commences in February, with most undergraduate and postgraduate courses starting in these months. Some institutions offer multiple intakes: two in February and July, and some have three in February, July, and November.
While not mandatory, many universities have at least two intakes per year. To apply for these courses, students should start their admission process at least five months before the course starts.
For example, applications for February intakes generally begin in September and close by late December or occasionally in January. This applies to both undergraduate and postgraduate courses. It’s advisable to contact the Admissions Office of your chosen university to confirm a specific application deadline.
How should students start searching for accommodation options in Australia?
Finding student accommodation in Australia requires a systematic approach and careful consideration of various factors. International students should follow these steps to find the best home for themselves:
Start early: Begin your search for accommodation well in advance to secure the best options and avoid last-minute stress.
Determine your preferences: Consider factors such as safety, location, budget, amenities, lease terms, and proximity to your educational institution when deciding on your accommodation preferences.
Research online platforms: Utilize online platforms dedicated to student accommodation.
Contact educational institutions: Reach out to your educational institution’s housing office or student services department to inquire about on-campus accommodation options. If on-campus accommodation isn’t available, you can also ask them about any partnerships they may have with external providers.
Join online communities: Engage with online communities, forums, and social media groups dedicated to students in Australia. These platforms often provide valuable insights, recommendations, and opportunities for finding shared accommodation or roommates.
Consider shared accommodation: Sharing an apartment or house with other students can be a cost-effective and sociable option. Explore shared accommodation listings or consider joining roommate matching services to find compatible housemates.
Attend accommodation fairs: Some educational institutions or housing organizations may organize accommodation fairs or events where you can meet with landlords and property managers, and explore various options in person.
Plan a visit or virtual tour: If possible, plan a visit to Australia to view potential accommodations in person. Alternatively, many landlords or agencies offer virtual tours, allowing you to assess the property remotely.
Secure your accommodation: Once you have found a suitable option, complete the necessary paperwork, sign the lease agreement, and make any required deposits or rental payments to secure your accommodation.
Remember to prioritize safety and read the terms and conditions carefully before finalizing any place. You can consult with your educational institution or trusted individuals if you have any concerns or doubts during the process. By following these steps and remaining proactive, you can increase your chances of finding suitable student accommodation in Australia.
What type of student accommodations to look for in Australia? What is the best time to book accommodation in Australia?
Australia offers a variety of student accommodation options that cater to a wide range of preferences and budgets. Here are my insights on the available accommodation types and the ideal booking times.
On-Campus Accommodation: Many Australian universities offer on-campus accommodation options, including dormitories and apartments. These accommodations are typically convenient in terms of proximity to campus facilities and resources. However, they tend to fill up quickly, so it’s advisable to apply for on-campus housing as soon as you receive your acceptance letter.
Off-Campus Housing: Off-campus housing includes private apartments, shared houses, and homestays. This option provides more independence and a diverse range of choices. It’s recommended to start searching for off-campus housing well in advance, at least 3-4 months before your intended move-in date. This allows you to secure the best options in terms of location and amenities.
Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA): PBSA is a growing trend in Australia. These purpose-built facilities are designed specifically for students and often offer amenities such as furnished rooms, communal spaces, and additional facilities like gym, laundry, study area, etc. In summary, the best time to book accommodation in Australia varies depending on the type of housing you’re interested in.
