Student Visa in Australia: A Guide for Grades 1 to 12
Australia is known for its world-class education system and offers students from all over the world an opportunity to pursue their education in a supportive and diverse environment. In this blog, we will explore the process of obtaining a student visa in Australia for students in grades 1 to 12.
Step 1: Choose a school The first step in obtaining a student visa in Australia is to choose a school. There are many different types of schools in Australia, including public, private, and international schools. To choose the best school for your child, it’s important to consider factors such as location, academic standards, and extracurricular activities.
Step 2: Complete an Enrollment Form Once you have chosen a school, you will need to complete an enrollment form. This form will typically include information about your child’s academic background, language proficiency, and any special needs or requirements. It’s important to provide accurate information in the enrollment form to ensure a smooth and hassle-free visa application process.
Step 3: Obtain a Student Visa The next step is to obtain a student visa. To do so, you will need to provide the following documents:
- A completed student visa application form
- A valid passport
- Proof of financial support
- Proof of health insurance
- Any other documents required by the school or the Australian government
Step 4: Prepare for the Move Once you have obtained a student visa, it’s important to start preparing for the move to Australia. This may include finding a place to live, arranging transportation, and enrolling your child in a language course if necessary. Family members are allowed to accompany international students in Australia, although there may be additional costs and requirements for their visas and living expenses. The exact details will depend on the specific visa type and family member circumstances, so it is recommended to research the requirements carefully and consult with an immigration lawyer if necessary.
The cost of a student visa in Australia varies depending on various factors, such as the type of visa, duration of stay, and the number of family members accompanying the student. However, some of the common expenses associated with obtaining a student visa in Australia are as follows:
- Visa application fee: This fee is non-refundable and ranges from AUD620 to AUD1,744, depending on the type of visa and the number of family members.
- Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC): This is mandatory health insurance for international students and ranges from AUD425 to AUD600 per year for a single student. Family members will incur additional costs.
- Tuition fee: Tuition fees for international students vary depending on the course, institution, and level of study, but can range from AUD20,000 to AUD40,000 per year.
- Living expenses: Students are expected to cover their own living expenses, including accommodation, food, transportation, and personal expenses. These expenses can range from AUD18,000 to AUD26,000 per year.
- Airfare: International students are responsible for their own travel arrangements, including airfare. The cost of airfare varies depending on the time of year and departure location but can range from AUD1,000 to AUD2,500.
Family members accompanying the student may be eligible to apply for a dependent visa, which will incur additional visa application fees. However, they may not be eligible to work while in Australia, unless they have obtained a separate work visa. The cost of a work visa varies depending on the type of visa and the duration of stay but can range from AUD1,000 to AUD3,000.
Note: This blog is meant to provide general information and should not be taken as legal advice. It’s always best to consult with a visa agent or immigration lawyer for more specific information on student visas in Australia.