Congratulations! You have been accepted into your course. Now you need to get your travel documents in order.
To study in another country, almost all international students will need a student visa. These visas vary between countries, and the process will also depend on your citizenship. Your StudyLink counsellor can help you with this process – and this service is free for students.
Australia
If your course is longer than 3 months, you will need a Student Visa. This allows you to study in Australia, allows eligible dependent family members to accompany you, and your spouse can also study in Australia for up to 3 months. Once you have started your course, you can then apply for permission to work. If approved, you can work for a maximum of 20 hours per week while your course is in session, and unlimited hours during holidays.
To qualify for this visa, you need to show you have been accepted for a course, and have enough money to pay your tuition fees, international travel expenses and living expenses during your stay.
International students in Australia must also have health insurance – you can obtain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) either through your university or college, or arrange this yourself through a private insurer in Australia.
Student visa applicants from some countries need to prove they have an IELTS score relevant to their course, this is based on citizenship.
UK
Candidates from visa-national countries (those who need a visa even for entry to the UK as a visitor) must apply for a student visa at the British Embassy/Consulate/High commission in their home country. Other candidates have the option of presenting the relevant documents to the Immigration Officer on entry, or may apply from within the UK to switch from another category to that of student.
Student visas are normally granted for an initial period of one year, usually determined by the length of the course to be studied. At least 15 hours a week must be spent in study and the student must be able to meet the cost of the course, maintenance and accommodation without working. However, those on student visas may work 20 hours per week during term time and 40 hours per week during holidays. Normally there are no restrictions on a spouse and children working in the UK, if the student will be studying longer than one year.
USA
If your course of study is more than 18 hours a week, you will need a student visa. It is important to apply for this as far as possible in advance – ideally at least 3 months before your course starts. You will need to book an interview with the nearest US embassy or consulate. June, July, and August are the busiest months in most consular sections, and interview appointments are the most difficult to get during that period.
You will need to bring proof of your acceptance to study at the US college or university, transcripts and diplomas from any previous institutions attended, results of your TOEFL exam, financial evidence that shows you have sufficient funds to cover your tuition and living expenses during the period of study and additional documents.
F-1 status, which is the most common status for full-time international students, allows for part time, on-campus employment (fewer than 20 hours per week).
New Zealand
International students in New Zealand are issued a one-year permit, which must be renewed for each additional year of study. International students are allowed to work part-time for up to 20 hours in any given week (if in full time study) and full-time during the Christmas/New Year holiday break.
Once you have started your course, you will find there is much more to your international student life than just study. Use the opportunity to join social and sporting groups and make friends with fellow students from all over the world. You may be able to do voluntary work or explore a new hobby – all of which may also help to further your career when you finish your studies. The career counselling office in your university of college can help advise you on ways to develop your employment opportunities, whether it is back in your home country or in your country of study.
Keep in mind that while many countries will allow students to work, students cannot plan on income from part-time work as part of the finances in applying for a student visa. And remember, your StudyLink counsellor is there to guide you through every step of your journey. Ask us for more information.
Good luck!