The Big Questions

The idea of going to the other side of the world to study always raises lots of questions. Here, we answer the ones we get asked most often

When do the courses start?

The main intake is in February, which is the start of the academic year in Australia. Many courses can also be started in July. Some courses do have more regular intakes – please contact Study Options to check what’s available in your subject.

What qualifications will I need to get in?

Each college sets its own entry requirements so they do vary depending on what course you want to study and which college you study it at. But generally, for certificate and diploma courses, you will need to show GCSEs (or the equivalent school-leaving qualification). In some instances, students can qualify for mature aged entry on the basis of their work experience.

How long will it take the college to make a decision?

The turnaround time on your application will depend on the college and on the time of year that you apply, but in most cases you should allow one or two weeks to find out whether they have offered you a place on the course.

When should I apply?

Although the colleges will make a decision on your application within a few weeks, we recommend applying sooner rather than later. First, because places on popular courses fill up quickly so you do need to get your application to us in plenty of time. Second, it’s always better to allow as long as possible – preferably at least a few months – to get everything organised rather than leaving it all to the last minute. If you want to start in February, aim to send your application to Study Options by September. If you want to start in July, get your application in by February.

How do I apply?

Through us! Study Options is the official representative for colleges throughout Australia and will guide you through the whole process. When you have decided which college and course you want to apply to, just let us know and we’ll send out all the application forms and a clear, easy to use checklist of exactly what else you need to send us. We will also certify any original documents to save them being sent overseas, and check through your application to make sure it’s all correct before sending it off to your chosen college. If you’ve got any questions at any point along the way, pick up the phone and give us a call.

I’m not sure what – or where – I want to study. Who can I go to for advice?

Study Options. We’re here to help people go and study DownUnder – that’s all we do, so we know the country and the education system very, very well. If you’d like some advice on what course to study, or what location might suit you best, just give us a call or make an appointment to come in for a chat. We can also send out college prospectuses or course lists to help you make an informed decision. We’ve helped hundreds of people go over to Australia to study, so get in touch and we can help you too!

Will I need a visa to study?

Yes. You’ll need to get a student visa to study any course longer than three months. For more information about student visas, please click here.

When should I apply for a student visa?

You can only apply for a student visa once you have received a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) or fees receipt from your chosen college. In order to obtain a CoE or fees receipt, you must have been given a formal offer of place by the college, accepted it in writing and paid a deposit toward your tuition fees, so it’s actually one of the last things to organise.

Will I need medical insurance?

As an international student it is a visa requirement in both Australia and New Zealand for you (and your family, if applicable) to have appropriate levels of medical cover throughout your time in the country studying. In Australia, this is called Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). A twelve month policy will cost around £160 for a single person and £320 for a family (depending on exchange rates).

Can I work while I’m studying?

On a student visa you will be allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during term-time, and full time in the holidays. When your visa is granted you will receive permission to work, though please note that you are not allowed to begin working until you have started your course. Any work that is a formal, registered part of a course is not included in the limit of 20 hours per week.

I’ve been told that if I study a trade I will get permanent residency for Australia at the end. Is this true?

Study Options is not a migration agency and so cannot advise on migration issues, but please bear in mind that Australia and New Zealand’s Immigration policy changes regularly, and so no one can guarantee such an outcome, as policy can change over the time you are studying your course.

We’d strongly recommend you study something you enjoy, rather than picking your subject or course because you think it will prove to be your ticket into a country. A two-year course will seem like forever if you are studying something that does not interest you.

If you are hoping to use your studies as a route to migration it’s important to seek professional advice from a registered, qualified migration agent. Agents who specialise in student visas and advising on the likelihood of remaining in the country at the end of your course should charge you between £750 and £1,200 to discuss your situation and advise on your chances of making a long-term move to Australia or New Zealand.