Frequently asked questions

• Which is THE BEST University in Australia / can you give me the ranking of Australian universities?

There is no official ranking by the Australian government. Each university decides on its own entry requirements for each of the courses offered. These are based on the supply/demand factor (i.e.: the more students who apply, the harder it is to get in), the location of the university, the facilities available, the expectations and plan of the individual faculties within the universities etc. International students may select a university in Australia, based on their individual needs, the availability of the courses, and the universities' entry requirements.

• What course can I do?

Firstly, take into account what your interests are and secondly, there may be pre-requisite subjects for some courses and so your academic transcripts will need to be reviewed. Thirdly, your current level of studies (e.g. HKCEE, HKALE, Diploma etc) will have to be taken into consideration. There are various pathways such as Foundation programs, Secondary School programs, Certificate/Diploma programs etc.

• Do I need to study English?

In most cases, yes, but it depends on the program you will be taking and the institution to which you are applying. Institutions will have their own English requirements. If you satisfy these, then there is no need for you to undertake English language courses in Australia. If not, you may be asked to sit for IELTS or TOEFL or an institutional placement test. Your scores in these tests will indicate if you need English language courses prior to commencement of your formal course.

• Can I get into university if I sit for the IELTS and get good results?

Not necessarily. There are two requirements which YOU MUST satisfy before being considered for eligibility into undergraduate programs. Firstly, you must satisfy the ACADEMIC REQUIREMENT. If you meet the first requirement, then the institution will consider your English language proficiency. A student with an excellent academic record but weak English will be accepted into university on the condition that he undertakes English language courses or tests and proves that he meets the language requirement of the university. On the other hand, a student with excellent English but poor academic results will not be offered a place into university.

• Which city should I choose to study in while in Australia?

Basically, you can study anywhere in Australia as long as you find the course and the location suitable. The most popular cities are Sydney and Melbourne followed by Brisbane, Canberra, Perth and Adelaide. Living expenses in popular cities like Sydney and Melbourne are higher than in other smaller cities in Australia.

• How much does it cost to study in Australia?

Fees are around AUD$8,000 to AUD$23,000 depending on the courses and institutions you are going into. Living expenses average around AUD$1,000 to AUD$1,300 per month.

• How can I apply for a student visa?

You will first need to submit a formal application to an institution. Upon approval of your application, the institution will issue an offer letter which will indicate the course, and the fees to be paid. You must then pay the fees indicated as well as the OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover).

Upon receipt of payment, the institution will issue you with a electronic Certificate Of Enrolment (eCOE)  which you can then use to apply for a student visa at the Australian Embassy or Consulate General or via any IDP Education office which will process your application for you. You will also be asked to provide a medical report signed by one of the Australian Embassy approved panel of doctors.

• How long can I stay in Australia?

The length of visa will be dependent on the total length of the course. You must return to your home country after completion of your course.

• Can I work in Australia while I study?

Yes. International students in Australia on a student visa can apply for permission to work up to 20 hours a week during course time and full-time during vacation periods.

• Where can I stay whilst in Australia?

You have a choice of homestay, flatting, residential college as well as student apartments depending on which institution you are going into. The institution of your choice will usually provide you with the accommodation information and arrangement once you have made payment.