FAQ's - Frequently asked questions

What are the chances of getting study visa for Australia?
Australia has adopted most transparent visa process and to be granted a student visa you must complete a visa application form, lodge it with the evidence required, pay the application charge and satisfy the student visa requirements. You will be granted a student visa only if you intend to study a registered course on a full-time basis and comply with a number of visa conditions after you have entered Australia.

What is eCoE - Electronic Confirmation of Enrolment ?

An eCoE is the certificate issued by the DIAC for the students to confirm the acceptance of their admission in the university. This certificate is required for the processing of the visas application or for the extension. Before the issuance of eCoE students have to undergo a Pre-Visa Assessment (PVA) based on the nationality and principal course of study. To get eligible for student visa, students have to enroll in an Australian university/institution and receive an eCoE. The eCoE form includes the crucial information such as the course starting date, ending date and other codes used by the DIAC that students have to be aware of. Typically eCoE will be issued after the university receives the student’s tuition fee. A copy of your eCoE must be submitted to your local DIAC office before a student visa can be issued.


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. For further information on working while studying in Australia Please visit DIAC website for more information regarding work restrictions.

How students search for a Job?

In Australia it is very easy and also difficult as well to get employed for the international students. Many students are able to get a job after spending certain time, if they are good in speaking English. If you are good in speaking English earlier, then you can obviously find good opportunities. Many tertiary institutions have a career service. They advertise job vacancies, help their students to find work and give information on writing applications and approved payment rates. Employment centers at institutions advertise a range of jobs. You can also find work through newspaper advertisements, an employment agency or the government's national employment service, Job Network.

What are the entry requirements to study at Australian institutions?
Students must meet minimum academic requirements and need a sufficient level of English language proficiency for entry to Australian education and training institutions. Institutions will assess whether you meet the selection criteria set for your proposed course of study.

Are scholarships available?

Yes. Scholarships available for international students however most are offered for postgraduate study in universities. The majority of international students in Australia are full-fee paying students, therefore are not awarded scholarships.

What if I don't meet the entry requirements?

If you do not meet the entry requirements for further study you can enroll in secondary school in Australia. If you do not meet undergraduate course entry requirements you may be able to enroll in Foundation Studies which prepare you for further study in Australia and reserve a provisional place in your proposed course. Bridging courses, such as a Master Qualifying program, are also offered. There are also many English language courses with starting dates throughout the year to prepare you for further study in Australia. It is recommended that you seek advice from the institution about meeting their entry requirements before applying for admission into your selected courses.

How long will I need to study to reach adequate English language levels?

There are six major categories of English language courses catering for all levels of proficiency from beginner to advance. Full-time course duration generally ranges from four to 48 weeks and students can enroll at any time during the year.

How are Australian institutions ranked?

Australian institutions are not officially ranked. However, there are some commercial publications available that compare achievements of universities and institutions in meeting certain criteria such as use of technology or student support services.
All of Australia's education and training institutions offer high quality, internationally relevant courses because Australian Government legislation requires them to be registered and meet quality assurance measures. Excellence in teaching, research, facilities and support services is found across Australia's diversified education and training system. Prospective students should focus on finding institutions that offer the course most suited to their particular needs and aspirations. Please visit our office for more assistance to find the best course options as well as institution.

Do Australian institutions have campuses in other countries?

A variety of Australian education and training programs are offered offshore. These programs allow you to obtain Australian qualifications in a different country or to combine study at home with study in Australia. You will need to check directly with institutions or Times Consultant about what courses are offered in other countries.


Do Australian universities undertake research?
Australian universities have a very important role in research and development, accounting for about one-quarter of Australia’s research and development activity and 60% of Australia’s basic research effort. There are 35 special Research Centers and Key Centers of Teaching and Research based at Australian universities and another 74 Cooperative Research Centers.

What is vocational and technical education?
Australia’s Vocational and Technical Education (VTE) system is often referred to as Technical and Vocational Education (TVE) in other countries. It delivers training that is both practical and career-oriented and includes courses in computing, business studies, marketing, tourism and hospitality. VTE is also available in Australian schools.

Can international students attend schools in Australia?

Yes. All government and non-government schools accept international students and must meet special requirements under Australian Government legislation.

What can I do in my spare time?
Institutions offer access to a vast range of extracurricular activities, both on campus and within the community. These activities include music, theater, sports and outdoor activities. Many different social activities are also organized. Campuses are centrally located for students to experience the sophistication and excitement of our cities and entertainment facilities. On regional campuses you can explore the lifestyle and experience the sense of community of our towns and regional centers. During semester breaks you can travel further afield to experience more of Australia’s spectacular natural environment and great physical beauty.

What fields of education are you interested in?

Universities offer many undergraduate and postgraduate courses covering fields of education such as agriculture, business, economics, education, environmental science, engineering, health sciences, humanities and social sciences, information technology, law, mathematics and computing, medicine, science and visual/performing arts.

What level of qualification is best suited for you?
The Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) is a national structure covering 13 different qualifications linking the four education sectors and providing learning pathways and recognition for previous study. Once the status of your existing qualifications is established the AQF will help you to choose the appropriate course within Australia. Many institutions offer preparatory studies, also known as bridging or foundation courses, to help meet the academic entry requirements of Australian institutions. There are also many English language courses with starting dates throughout the year to prepare you for further study in Australia.


What is OSHC?

OSHC covers most medical expenses and the cost of hospital care which international students may need while in Australia. OSHC will also pay for most prescription drugs and emergency ambulance transport.


What is not covered in OHSC?

Dental and optometry costs are not included but students may also take out additional cover. Students are reminded that OSHC does not cover any pre-existing conditions (such as pregnancy or prior illness) and such expenses must be met by the student.


Can I get exemptions based on what I have already studied at diploma level?

Yes it is possible to get exemptions. We will need to send your course syllabus and transcripts to the institution in Australia, for the relevant academic faculty to decide on the number of exemptions that they will give you.


How much does it cost to live and study in Australia?

The cost of studying in Australia depends on the course you choose, and it's duration. The cost of living in Australia varies between A$12,000 - A$16,000 per year. This would include accommodation, food, public transport, and limited entertainment.


Where can I find more information?

Times Consultant have an extensive network of Education and Training Counselors and education advisers around Pakistan providing reliable and impartial advice on study opportunities in Australia. The latest information on the Australian education and training system, costs of study and living, application and enrolment procedures and the Australian way of life is also available from our website.
Source: www.studyinaustralia.gov.au / www.immi.gov.au