Study in Australia
Australia: Educational opportunities galore
Australia boasts of the presence of many of the world’s top 100 universities, making it an ideal study abroad destination.
Australia is a paradise of diversity and opportunities; there are many options for education, especially for international students. Education in Australia is controlled, to a large extent, by the government, as international students are major contributors to the country’s economy, with the third highest number of international students after the UK and USA. Australia also boasts of the presence of many of the world’s top 100 universities. This proves the government’s interest in maintaining the standard of education. This is also why numerous scholarships are available for international students.
The education system in Australia is divided into a three-tier structure; combining school education, vocational education and training, and higher education. Most study programmes offered by Australian universities provide courses and conduct research in a wide range of professional and academic disciplines. They award associate diplomas, diplomas, Bachelor’s, Master’s, and doctoral degrees.
Many international students who have opted to study abroad in Australia, and eventually graduated from Australian institutions, apply for Independent Skilled Migration. There is a special category for international students who have undergone any of the Australian study programmes. If you are planning to study in Australia, then you must consider your scope of work and earning over there. Before reaching Australia, you would need to make necessary adjustments to your visa as well.
Australian colleges provide vocational education as well as the guidance to help bridge the gap between schools and universities. There are numerous colleges catering to the academic needs of international students. While those with a technical bent of mind can search from a long list of engineering colleges, a management student would find an equally wide range of Australian colleges to choose from. Law and Art are also options that one can pick; a Double Bachelor’s degree is offered by many colleges too.
Other than the choice of curriculum offered, students feel drawn by the prospect of gaining hands-on experience through state-of-the-art labs and various internships offered; a scholarship can definitely prove advantageous. Student life in Australia encompasses a multitude of interesting activities including sports, art, and culture. Added to that, if one has the promise of securing a job, post completion of the degree, then the option to study in Australia, is certainly lucrative enough to deserve consideration.
As per the Australian student visa policy, all initial student visas granted do not give the visa holder permission to work in Australia. International students and their dependants will only be able to apply for a student visa i with work rights, after the student arrives in Australia and has started his/her course of study. Usually, under the regulations of the student visa, students and their dependants are limited to 20 hours of work per week while the student’s course of study or training is in session. Further, students may work full-time during holidays. However for Master’s and Doctorate students, the dependents can have unlimited work rights after the principal student visa holder has commenced his or her course in Australia.
Indian students form the second largest section of international students in Australia. There are various positive factors for students to study in Australian colleges. These include work opportunities, the weather, the lifestyle as well as the standard of education in Australia, which is really, the prime factor.
Other than the choice of curriculum offered, students feel drawn by the prospect of gaining hands-on experience through state-of-the-art labs and various internships offered.
SOME FAQS
WHAT ARE THE OPPORTUNITIES FOR MBA PROGRAMMES IN AUSTRALIA?
With an MBA programme, you need to have managerial work experience of around 8 to 10 years. So, if you do not have such experience, it would be difficult to qualify. unlike India, if you have done an MBA, then you can only apply for higher level jobs in Australia. Getting junior level jobs, after doing MBA, is difficult; your profile could be rejected.
WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF PURSUING AN MS IN AUSTRALIA?
There are a lot of micro factors. Australia is a friendly country. Australia has about 44 universities and 25% are rated amongst the world’s top universities. This is an example of the quality of education Australia provides. Here, the universities follow guidelines and protocols, set by the government, so that the students are not disadvantaged. They are very strong with research at the moment; a beneficial factor if you study MS in Australia.
WHAT IS THE SEASONAL APPLICATION PROCESS?
There are two intakes, in February and July. You have to submit your application for admission before you apply for your visa. All documents are required before the deadlines set by the university.
Australia: A haven for higher education
Australia is a leading global education powerhouse with some of the world’s best facilities and educators providing international students with a range of quality education options.
Australia has the third highest number of international students in the world with more than 5,87,000 international students as of September 2017. As per the latest QS World University Rankings 2018, 7 Australian Universities are amongst the top 100 Universities and 5 Australian Universities are amongst the top 50 Universities.
More than 2.5 million former international students have gone on to make a difference after studying in Australia. Some of these students are among the world’s finest minds, in fact, Australia has produced 15 Nobel prize laureates and every day over 1 billion people around the world rely on Australian discoveries and innovations—including penicillin, IVF, ultrasound, Wi-Fi, the Bionic Ear, cervical cancer vaccine and Black Box Flight Recorders—to make their lives, and the lives of others, better.
Many international students who have studied in Australia have become government ministers, leading business persons, researchers, scientists, medical practitioners and community leaders around the world.
INDIAN STUDENTS IN AUSTRALIA
As of September 2017, there are close to 81000 Indian student enrollments across Australia’s education and training providers. The most popular courses for Indian students are in the field of management and commerce; food, hospitality and personal services; engineering and related technologies; and, information technology.
9 Reasons why Australia is a popular destination for Indian students:
- World leading universities: 7 Australian universities are listed amongst the top 100 universities in the world, which is a major draw for Indian students as this provides them an assurance that their university is amongst the top 100 in the world.
- Global experience: Students are drawn from more than 100 nationalities in Australia. This offers Indian students a global education experience and opportunity to interact and forge lifelong friendships. As of September 2017, 5,87,942 international students are studying in Australia.
- World leading education programmes: Australia is a world leader including educational programmes in archaeology, earth & marine sciences, mineral & mining engineering, environmental sciences, sports sciences, nursing, pharmacy & pharmacology and veterinary science. For students with interests in the above areas, Australia is the first choice for an international education destination.
- Future careers – preparing you for the future: Australia is a significant international education destination for emerging or future careers in areas ranging from technology, digital, robotics, media & entertainment, scientific research, health, and future materials. Graduates from Australian universities are future ready armed with skill sets to meet the changing global environment and disruptions. This is a significant factor for Indian students.
- An education destination for off beat careers: Australia is also an education destination for offbeat careers like media, sports, music, etc.
- Globally recognised qualifications: Australian qualifications are recognised across the globe by leading professional associations and employers. This provides Indian students the opportunity to experience transnational careers.
- Positive experience: Majority of Indian students studying in Australia have a positive experience of living and studying I there. The region is a very safe education destination for international students.
- Quality of life: Australia has five of the 30 best cities in the world for students based on student mix, safety, affordability, quality of life, and employer activity – all important elements for students when choosing the best study destination.
- Life changing experience: For a lot of Indian students, an education in Australia is life changing, and it builds their character.
STUDYING IN AUSTRALIA COSTS
The cost of studying in Australia depends on the institution and the level of study students choose. The list below provides an indication of the range of course costs for different types of qualifications:
- Undergraduate Bachelor’s Degree – A$15,000 to A$33,000*
- Postgraduate Master’s Degree – A$20,000 to AS37,000*
- Doctoral Degree – A$14,000 to A$37,000*
Note: This does not include high value courses such as veterinary and medical. Please visit institution websites directly to view costs for these courses. All costs are per year in Australian dollars.
SCHOLARSHIPS
There are many scholarships, grants, and bursaries that can help support international students financially with their studies in Australia. They are offered by the Australian Government, education institutions, and a number of other public and private organisations.
The Study in Australia website, studyinaustralia.gov.au, is the Australian Government website for international students. It provides up-to-date information on courses, institutions and scholarships, and studying and living in Australia. This includes relevant links to websites with information on work visa rules and applying for a student visa. For more information on studying in Australia, please send a mail to [email protected]
On a bioinformatics quest
A postgraduate degree in Bioinformatics focuses on how the field is changing the way one interprets scientific data and makes scientific discoveries.
Bioinformatics focuses on the application of statistics and computer science to molecular biology. The University of Queensland (UQ) offers a Master of Bioinformatics for students who wish to make a career in the field.
CURRICULUM
The one-year course, spread across two semesters, focuses on how bioinformatics is changing the way one interprets scientific data and makes scientific discoveries, it trains students in bioinformatics, introduction to the molecular biology laboratory, algorithms and data structures, issues in biotechnology, probability models and stochastic processes, web information systems, introduction to software engineering, etc. Elaborates, Mikael Boden, Group Leader and Bioinformatics and Associate Professor at the University’s School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, “Bioinformatics is a relatively new career that has developed to meet the need to analyse big data sets in biological fields ranging from cancer research to understanding what mutant genes do in plants.”
Students who have completed a Bachelor’s degree in bioinformatics can apply for the Master’s programme. Those who have completed an equivalent of a Bachelor’s degree (honours) in science, IT and fields of engineering or a relevant field, too, can apply. The programme focuses on developing students’ technical and research skills in core areas of bioinformatics through classroom lectures, research projects and seminars. Applicants must have a GPA of five or above on a seven-point scale and an IELTS score of 6.5 in reading, and 6 each in writing, speaking and listening skills.
“The school invites students who are citizens of India or countries in Latin America to apply for a postgraduate coursework scholarship. The scholarship covers 50% of the tuition fees for five students every year,” says Boden.
WORK-WISE
On completing the course, students can find employment in pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, research organisations and government departments. They can work as bioinformaticians, genome scientists, biomedical computer scientists, biostatisticians, clinical data managers, geneticists, medical/technical writers, research scientists, software/database programmers, etc.
DURATION: One year, full-time
FEE: AUD $34,944 for one year
THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE, AUSTRALIA
Now, more than ever the world needs new. New thinking, new ideas, new approaches to face the challenges of tomorrow.
The University of Newcastle is a place where our students and researchers are inspired to bring new into the world.
For The last 50 years, the on University has specialised in delivering superior education to talented students from all walks of life. Our degrees are shaped around global learning, work placements and entrepreneurial approaches to study.
We’re proud that our researchers and educators are more among the world’s best. The University has an exceptional record of achievement and currently ranks among the top 1% of universities globally. Further, the University is ranked in the top 150 in the world and top 8 in Australia for Business and Economics.
For a creative future
Meghan Kelly, Senior Lecturer in Screen and Design, Faculty of Arts and Education, Deakin University, Victoria, Australia, on what it takes to make a career in visual communication and graphic design.
If communication and creativity is your forte, the field of visual communication and graphic design can help you shape your future.
A course in visual communication and graphic design helps students develop practical and theoretical skills in visual communication by combining contemporary design theory with specialised studio practices. Students are trained to transform abstract ideas into practical outcomes for users, customers and society on the whole. Those who wish to pursue a career in the creative field can opt for a three- year Bachelor of creative arts (visual communication design) degree, or a two-year Master’s degree in graphic designing. The courses are aimed at helping students develop a multidisciplinary approach to design practice. The focus is on analysing and addressing design issues in a global context, taking into consideration cultural and socioeconomic diversity.
A range of content is taught throughout the course duration. Students have the opportunity to include, as their electives, areas such as photography, animation, engineering, information technology, marketing and business knowledge. This innovative field offers diversity through associated disciplines to challenge students and create unique visual communication designers.
A candidate looking to pursue a career in this field should have a passion for arts. He/she should have the ability to effectively communicate ideas using visual media to create visually appealing elements. Creative thinking is a prerequisite for the field, interested candidates should also have knowledge of the latest trends in design and should possess digital literacy to source, analyse, generate and disseminate design solutions.
Students of this field have to work towards resolving communication elements into a final format, taking into consideration the needs of the client, intersecting those with the needs of the customer and consumer and the diversity of media application. Students learn to employ their art- based skills in a commercial environment, and this is required in a broad range of professions.
The field offers opportunities in advertising agencies, graphic design firms, newspapers, magazines, publishing houses, branding, digital media and emerging areas of creative commercial practice. One can also work as an entrepreneur in the field of graphic design. Freelancing is another attractive proposition for visual communication designers. There is a demand for web designers, photograph editors, book layout artists, illustrators and art directors across the globe. Also, this is one of the highest paid creative fields. Graphic designers with a Bachelor’s or a Master’s degree from a reputable foreign institute usually command decent pay packages.
From the kangaroo land
Prerna Karnani who completed the Master of International Business at Monash University, speaks about her experience as an Indian student in Australia.
People often ask me if experienced a “culture-shock” when I first came to Australia. My KJ response – not really. Because if you hail from a cosmopolitan Indian city like Mumbai, Pune, Bangalore or Delhi and go to Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane or Adelaide, the culture is not vastly different. Life is just as fast-paced. Language is not a barrier and that is a huge bonus. There are adjustments to be made, certainly, but that’s part of getting out of your comfort zone. Acclimatising to the weather conditions is a big challenge, in turn, the most used App on my smartphone was and still is, the Weather App. You will end up checking it every few hours since the weather determines what to wear, whether or not the laundry needs to be done, whether going out with friends in the night is a good idea, and what mode of transport is to be used.
Another major adjustment is the cost of living. Australian cities are among the most expensive in the world. The average cost of basic necessities like bread, milk, rent, electricity, public transport, etc. is higher than most European cities, let alone Indian/Asian cities. Freshers and students usually aim at getting a part-time job for extra pocket money. But as per the International Student law, a student cannot work more than 20 hours a week, which is, in a way, necessary for you to study well. What you earn from a part-time job almost covers food, travel and entertainment expenses; but if you are really good at saving money you might manage to pay your monthly accommodation rent too!
For me, the biggest adjustment is giving up on impromptu shopping sprees, as apart from Thursday and Friday, shops, malls and cafes in suburbs shut at 5:00 pm. However, supermarkets are open till 11:00 pm in most big cities. Restaurants are open, but if you just want a coffee or are looking for a place to catch up with friends, you have to go to the Central Business District (CBD) or the “city”. This is something most international students find hard to adjust to.
Australians work to live, they don’t live to work, so businesses won’t go out of their way to earn a few extra bucks. Entertainment is found in getting together with friends and family for a barbeque, dining out, going camping and playing or watching sports. Shopping is not a hugely popular form of entertainment. On the whole, it is a place that offers a lot; not to forget that it expects a lot in return as well.
HEAD START
If you hail from a cosmopolitan indian city like Mumbai, Pune, Bangalore or Delhi and go to Melbourne of Adelaide, the culture is not vastly different. Life is just as fast paced Languages is not a barrier and that is a huge bonus.
Impromptu decisions
Ben Smagarinsky, student of commerce and economics, University of New South Wales, Sydney, who did a three-week internship with TCS in India, shares his experience and learnings from this journey.
I love analysing and deciphering information, and hence, enjoy studying commerce and economics. I am currently pursuing a double degree in commerce at the University of New south Wales, Sydney (UNSW).
I am currently in India for my three-week internship at the Tata Consultancy Services. I have had the opportunity to work on a project that is out of my area of expertise, and thus is a big learning experience. This is, no doubt, a positive challenge and will help me grow professionally. The internship has also given me the opportunity to speak to many interesting and successful professionals. Since it is a full-time internship, it takes up most of my day. I still try to explore the city as much possible.
I love travelling and experience new places every day. Since I have finished school, I have taken a gap year and travelled around Europe and also volunteered in Ethiopia. I have also completed an exchange W semester in Austin, Texas.
UNSW offers this programme at a few locations. I had been to most of the ethers and have always wanted to visit India. I also felt like it was unique compared to the other cities.
India is one of the fastest growing countries economically, and to visit and experience this is what attracted me. I also thought that being abie to got some business experience in India woulckhelp me grow professionally. And hence, I chose to intern here.
VISA UPDATE
Sonam Moondhra gives a glimpse into what students must keep in mind while applying for a study abroad visa for Australia.
Student visas complete the application process, ensuring that the student reaches the destination of his choice.
Most student visas require the applicant to meet four main criteria to prove he/she is a genuine student:
- The university or college is accredited or recognised by the government of that country.
- There is evidence of sufficient funds to cover the entire duration of programme, inclusive of all tuition, living and insurance expenses.
- Course is relevant to career goals and matches past academic background.
- Student provides convincing evidence that he/she has every intention to return to home country.
Student Visas are applied through the Government’s online portal with complete documentation. The entire process may take between three to four weeks. Random interviews may be conducted by the Consulate at their discretion. A Statement of intent outlining the relevance of the programme to the career progress in India must accompany the visa apniicatiori.
The Graduate Work Visa stream is for international students who graduate with skills and qualifications that relate to an occupation considered in demand in the Australian labour market. A visa in this stream is generally granted for 18 months.
The Post-Study work Visa stream offers extended options for working in Australia to eligible graduates of a higher education degree. Under this stream, successful applicants are granted a visa with a visa period of two, three or four years’ duration.
DOCUMENTS TO SE SUBMITTED
- Non-Refundable application fee of Rs.28,000 (confirm before applying)
- Letter of Offer (Original + a copy)
- Notarised passport copy of applicant and dependents if any
- 4 passport size photographs of applicant and dependents (if any) – with white background.
- Student Visa forms – Online
https://online.immi.gov.au/lusc/login
ACADEMIC DOCUMENTS: All attested documents like marks sheets, transcripts and degree/diploma awards should be arranged according to the highest qualification to the class X results. Updated CV of student, lELTS/TOEFLyPTE score sheet and Statement of Purpose to be also included.
FINANCIAL DOCUMENTS: Bank statement (showing 6 months transactions, with bank stamp and sign); copy of fixed deposits (with bank stamp and signature); and education loan letter, if applicable.
INCOME/SPONSOR DOCUMENTS: Affidavit of Support and ID proof of sponsor.
SALARIED INCOME: Last 3 years’ ITRs along with last 3 months latest salary slips/3 months bank statement showing salary deposit.
BUSINESS INCOME: Last 3 years ITRS with computation of Income, business registration proof, and current account statement.
MEDICAL: Fill the Health Declaration Form from the online visa application and print the confirmation. This form needs to be taken to the recognised centre/hospital for you to go through the medical checkups.
HEALTH INSURANCE: Student needs to pay the OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover) prior to applying for the visa.