Guideline for Pakistani Students to Study In Australia

Australia has become one of the most preferred destinations for Pakistani students seeking international education.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the various reasons behind Australia’s popularity among Pakistani students.

Diversity and Academic Excellence

Australia is the third most popular destination for international students in English-speaking countries, following the United States and the UK.

This choice is driven by several factors, including Australia’s cultural diversity, friendly locals, and commitment to providing high-quality education.

A Myriad of Course Options

Australia’s institutions offer various courses and degrees, catering to a broad spectrum of academic interests and career aspirations.

The initial crucial decision for international students revolves around selecting the most suitable institution and program.

The options include universities, vocational education, and English language training, with Australia’s vocational and technical education recognized as among the best worldwide.

Work Opportunities for International Students

A significant advantage for international students studying in Australia is the opportunity to work part-time, up to 20 hours per week.

This presents an excellent chance to earn money to cover living expenses and gain valuable work experience relevant to your field of study.

Diverse Study Fields

Australian universities are renowned for their excellence in various study fields, including natural sciences, mathematics, engineering, social sciences, and medical fields, including MDs and PhDs.

Regardless of your interest, you’ll find a course that aligns with your academic goals. Furthermore, Australia’s curriculum consistently keeps pace with global trends, regularly updating existing practices and introducing new ones.

Preparing for Your Australian Education

Embarking on your educational journey in Australia requires careful preparation. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

1. Education Counseling and Preparatory Phase

Before applying for a course, seeking education counselling and gathering crucial information about the country, culture, rules, regulations, and cost of living is essential. Here’s how you can prepare:

• Explore online study portals and official Australian educational websites.
• Seek advice from friends, family, or acquaintances who have previously studied in Australia.
• Consider guidance from education consultants, you can consult Edify Group of Companies for your education process in Australia. Edify Group of Companies is the best education consultant for Australia in Pakistan
• Visit your nearest Edify Group of Companies branch or apply online.
• During this preparatory phase, address critical questions such as qualification compatibility, application deadlines, required documentation, language proficiency tests (like IELTS), tuition and living costs, work opportunities, and the availability of alumni networks for guidance.

2. Course Selection

Australia offers an impressive selection of 22,000 courses across 1,200 institutions, covering all levels of education, from secondary school to higher education.

As an international student, choosing a course and institution registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS) is crucial to ensure adherence to high-quality standards.

When selecting your program, consider institutional rankings, English language requirements, job prospects, and course registration.

3. Financing Your Education

Finances play a pivotal role in your Australian education journey. Depending on your choice of institution and level of study, tuition fees can vary significantly.

Be prepared to cover additional costs such as course materials and facility access. Accommodation expenses also vary, with options ranging from hostels to rental properties.

Consider other living costs like groceries, transportation, and entertainment to plan your budget effectively.

Here is a breakdown of approximate course costs for various types of qualifications:

• School: $7,800 to $30,000 per year.
• Vocational Education and Training (Certificates I to IV, Diploma, and Advanced Diploma): $4,000 to $22,000 per year.
• Undergraduate Bachelor Degree: $20,000 to $45,000 per year*
• Postgraduate Masters Degree: $22,000 to $50,000 per year*
• Doctoral Degree: $22,000 to $50,000 per year*

Please note that the abovementioned costs do not cover high-value courses such as veterinary and medical programs.

We recommend visiting the respective institution’s official website for specific information regarding the fees for these programs.

All costs are expressed in Australian dollars per year. You can use the currency conversion tool available at http://www.xe.com to convert these amounts into your currency.

4. Scholarships

Explore scholarship opportunities to ease the financial burden. Notable options include the Australia Awards program and the Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP).

5. Visa, Passport, and Insurance

Upon securing admission, Pakistani students must apply for a student visa (subclass 500) through the High Commission of Australia in Pakistan. Visa application centres in Lahore, Islamabad, and Karachi offer convenient services.

Ensure your passport remains valid for at least six months upon arrival in Australia and secure Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) and travel insurance.

6. Accommodation Choices

Once you have selected your study destination, the next step is to find suitable accommodation that aligns with your preferences and budget.

The expenses associated with housing can vary significantly based on factors like the state, city, and the type of lodging you choose. It’s crucial to verify the total cost and any additional expenses like security deposits and utility fees.

Additionally, consider its proximity to your campus and its accessibility via public transportation, such as buses or trains.

Exploring nearby amenities such as shopping centres, hospitals, emergency services, and other facilities is essential.

Here are some accommodation options to consider, especially when you first arrive in Australia:

Short-term Accommodation:

• Hostels and hotels with discounted rates.
• Temporary housing options that your institution may offer as you settle in. You can obtain information from your institution’s international support staff or their website.

Rental:

You can rent a property either individually or with friends, either through a real estate agent or privately.

When renting a property, you will typically be required to provide a security deposit or “bond,” usually equivalent to four weeks’ rent and advance rent payments (usually four weeks in advance).

The bond serves as security against any potential damages caused to the property during your tenancy. Some or all of this amount may be refunded to you after your tenancy agreement concludes.

For more detailed information regarding your rights and responsibilities while renting in Australia, it’s advisable to visit the relevant government Fair Trading agency in your state/territory.

On Campus:

Many universities offer on-campus accommodation, which can be a convenient option to reduce commuting.

These accommodations often come in comfortable and furnished apartment-style living spaces, sometimes including cleaning and meal services.

To explore the accommodation options available at your institution and compare their costs with off-campus arrangements, get in touch with your institution directly.

Homestay:

Homestay involves living with a local family in their home. It can be an excellent choice, especially for younger students, as it provides the comforts of a family environment, often including meals and cleaning services.

Families offering homestay accommodations to international students are typically rigorously screened to ensure they provide a suitable living environment.

Legal Protections:

As a tenant, you have specific responsibilities such as timely payment of accommodation expenses, maintenance, and cleanliness. You also have legal rights to a safe, well-maintained living space with functioning facilities.

Suppose you encounter any issues with your accommodation. In that case, whether you are renting, living on campus, or in a homestay arrangement, you should communicate with your agent or landlord (if applicable) or reach out to your institution’s international student support staff.

There are also organizations like tenants’ unions and consumer advocates that can offer assistance. You can contact the relevant government Fair Trading agency in your state/territory for more information.

7. Post-Graduation Opportunities

After completing your studies in Australia, you can pursue higher qualifications, post-study work to gain experience, or return to your home country for further endeavours.

Be aware of your visa conditions and explore alumni groups to connect with peers and access valuable resources.

8. Returning Home

If you decide to return home, consider logistical steps like shipping your belongings, obtaining non-academic exam results, reclaiming rental security bonds, and joining alumni organizations.

Australia presents a promising destination for Pakistani students, offering a world-class education and a vibrant cultural experience. With proper planning and guidance, your journey to study Down Under can be both enriching and fulfilling.

Read More

Australia Bans Commission For Onshore Switching And Cross-Ownership

Conclusion

Australia stands as a beacon of educational opportunity for Pakistani students, beckoning with its diverse culture, world-class education, and friendly environment.

From choosing your dream course to securing a student visa, this comprehensive guide has equipped you with the knowledge to embark on your Australian education journey.

Remember, Australia’s allure lies not only in its academic excellence but also in the rich experiences and global perspectives it offers.

As you navigate the path to your Australian education, take each step with confidence, for it is not just a destination; it’s a transformative adventure that will shape your future in profound ways.