Australia has a stellar educational reputation. Not only is it a renowned tourist destination with modern landmarks, stunning beaches, interesting wildlife, and friendly locals, but it’s also home to a number of established universities and higher education institutions that attract students from all over the world. 

If you plan to study in Australia, the application process will probably be long and tedious. You should prepare as early as possible and make sure you follow the application steps thoroughly. Below, you’ll find some tips and guidelines to help you when applying to a university in Australia. 

1. Requirements Checklist

Before applying to a university in Australia, make sure you’re eligible to go. Doing thorough research and keeping a requirements checklist is an important step in your application process. The needed documents are plenty and vary from one university to another, so you’ll need to double-check with the university’s website. Aside from that, we’ve compiled a list of the basic documents you will definitely need.

• A valid and up to date passport.

• Your personal details.

• Certification of English language proficiency.

• Proof of funding. 

Once you’ve checked every requirement off the list, you’ll need to move on to the next step and find your university and/or course(s) of choice.

2. Your Choice of Courses or University

In the Australian education system, you need to select your course of choice before you begin your studies. Australia has a wide range of different courses across multiple fields that you can pick from. You can choose and apply to more than one course at different universities. It’s better to choose or apply for courses you are passionate about or interested in since you may not be able to change courses once you arrive there. Certain Australian states may want to limit the number of universities you apply for courses at, but other than that, you’re free to apply at as many universities as you’d like. 

3. Deadlines

Application deadlines are variable and mainly depend on the university you’re applying to. However, we can try and give you an estimation of when exactly you should apply based on which semester you’ll be travelling to attend. 

• Application Period for The First Semester: Late October - Mid-November

• Application Period for The Second Semester: Mid-April - Mid-May

Applying in time or even earlier is important. The earlier you apply, the higher your chances of acceptance are. So make sure you’re aware of the university’s dates and deadlines before applying. You can also check Casita’s guide on the Australian academic year. 

4. Ways to Apply

Australia’s unique education system provides students with multiple ways through which they can apply to their university of choice. Applying to a university in Australia can be done through any of the following ways:

• Directly through the university’s website.

• Through a local university.

• Through an external agent.

If you’re currently a university student, your university may take care of your application through a specialised department. The option to hire an external agent, albeit costly, is still available. You are free to choose the way that best suits you. But, as an international student, research is your friend, so make sure you do your research before deciding on which way you want to apply.

5. Language Requirements

If you’re not from a country where English is the first language, you’ll need to take an English proficiency test that the Australian government accepts. Here’s a list of the possible tests you could take: 

• TOEFL iBT

• IELTS Academic

• C1 Advanced

• Pearson PTE Academic.

You can take mock and/or practise tests online in preparation or check Casita’s preparation tips for both TOEFL and IELTS. Once you’ve taken -and hopefully passed- your test, you’ll need documented proof of your results for both your visa and university applications.

6. Visa Application

To be granted a place in an Australian university as an international student, you’ll need to have a student visa. As the visa’s processing time may vary, applying for one as early as possible is recommended. Here’s what you need to know when applying for an Australian student visa.

7. Health Care Coverage

Since health care coverage is a condition to getting your student visa; we’re here to walk you through the process of getting one. The Official Health Insurance of Australia doesn’t cover international students. However, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) does. You’ll be recommended an OSHC from your university and have the option to choose your own. The important thing about this decision is research. So research as much as possible until you figure out what best suits you. Casita also has a guide to help you throughout your research.

8. Setting Off on Your Journey

After getting all your documents and applications in order, you’re a few steps away from setting off to Australia to attend your university of choice. Here’s an overview of your last remaining steps!

• Book a plane ticket.

• Find suitable student accommodation.

• Since you can arrive up to 90 days before starting your course(s), you can use the time to explore and pinpoint the nearby amenities.

• Visit the university’s campus and get accustomed to your new surroundings.

Once you’ve checked every item off your list, you’re set to begin your fruitful study abroad experience. Remember to learn, enjoy, and make the most of your time in Australia!