Study in Australia

International students FAQs

Why study in Australia?
Australia's education system is recognised as one of the best in the world with a highly regarded international students' system in place. Students who decide to study in Australia will not only benefit from such quality internationally recognised education, but they will have the opportunity to improve their English skills, make life long friends from around the world and they will also have the opportunity to experience personal growth and development.

What is HSP and do I have to enrol in it?
High School Preparation (HSP) is a course that prepares students for mainstream studies at their host school in Australia. It usually runs for 2 school terms (approx. 20 weeks). All students must enrol in this course unless they are able to provide documents (e.g. ISLPR or IELTS results) to prove their English proficiency.

Can I participate?
We have found that young people who has a sense of adventure and who are open-minded, in good health, mature and flexible with a positive attitude are the ones who can really benefit from studying and living overseas. So if you believe that you have got these qualities and you have satisfactorily passed all core subjects in your previous 2 years of schooling, then yes, go for it!

Where can I study in Australia and for how long?
You can choose to apply to study in any international schools in Australia. You can choose to stay in Australia for as short as one school term (3 months) or for as long as 5 years. It's all very flexible so talk to us about what you would like to do.

What is the Australian School calendar like?
All states in Australia manages their own education system, therefore the dates may vary  from state to state. However,  all schools in Australia has four school terms during the year. Just to give you a rough idea, for example, for public schools in NSW you may expect term one to run from 27/01/09 to 09/04/09, term two from 28/04/09 to 10/07/09, term three from 27/07/09 to 02/10/09 and term four from 19/10/09 to 18/12/09.

How and when should I apply?
You may either enquire and apply directly to the Education departments of your preferred state, this may take longer since you may be the one doing the paper work and chasing. If you would like to feel less stressed about planning your trip then you can email AA Education and we will give you all the information and personal support needed. Yes, we will process your papers and do the chasing for you! We would recommend that you enquire and apply as soon as you can.

Do I need a visa and how do I get it?
Yes, you need a student visa (sub class 571) to join any international student programs in Australia. Usually, once you have paid your fees and processed all the required papers and have obtained a Confirmation of Enrolment from an Australian school, you should be able to obtain your student visa. You will need to contact the Australian embassy in your country for further details regarding your visa.

Are Australian qualifications recognised in my home country?
Australian qualifications are highly regarded internationally so they are usually recognised around the world. However, before you start applying and packing, we advice you to contact and check with your home institution regarding this matter. We would like to be sure that your overseas studies will be credited too!

How much does it cost?
According to an Australian Government survey, Australia's living and tuition costs are considerably lower than America and England. However, the cost may vary according to the location of which you live in and your own personal living style.

Can I be picked up and dropped off at the airport at the beginning and at the end of my program?
Yes, if you would like to be picked up from the airport when you land in Australia, please ensure that you complete the 'Arrival Details' form (you should receive this form after your application has been processed and confirmed). When leaving Australia, students are usually dropped off by their host family or new friends that they have made in Australia. However, if for any reason this cannot be arranged, we are able to make arrangements too. If you require this service, please email us to make an enquiry.

What about accommodation?
All students enroled in High School International Student programs are required to be accommodated with a parent, a homestay or an approved close relative even if you are over 18 years of age.

Can I work while studying in Australia?
Yes, if you are under 16 years of age, you may work up to 12 hours per week during school time and you may work up to 20 hours per week during the holidays. You will need to consult school staff to obtain permission since it is up to the school to determine if working may have negative impact on your studies.  

What supports are out there for me if I need them?
There usually are International Student Coordinator and/ or a Homestay Coordinator at your host school. They are there for personal and/ or school related support and they are available to you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Also, please keep in mind that your host school, your teachers, your host family and the staff at AA Education are all here to support you, so please do not hesitate to ask for help when needed.