Studying in Australia: the choice of many former Working Holiday Visa holders
Internationally recognized and similar to the American model, the Australian education system attracts many applicants eager to pursue English-language training in a highly appealing environment. Furthermore, a growing number of (former) Working Holiday visa holders are returning to Australia to study after their stay, according to the country's Department of Immigration and Border Protection.
As Rod Camm, head of the Australian Council for Private Education and Training, explains: “These young people come on a working holiday visa, love what they see, and then decide to return to study.” Indeed, who wouldn't want to study in a country where both the quality of life and the beauty of the landscapes are consistently praised in global rankings? Add to that the fact that Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane also consistently rank among the top 10 most livable cities in the world, and the answer becomes obvious.
The Australian education system
Australia has a total of 41 universities, 40 of which are public. With one key difference: public does not mean free, or nearly free, as in Belgium. You can find the list of these universities on the website of Study Experience, specializing in higher education abroadOutside of university, Australia relies heavily on its numerous TAFE (Tertiary And Further Education) institutions, also known as VET (Vocational Education and Training). In other words, the Belgian equivalent of higher education institutions. These TAFEs all have a focus that facilitates easy integration into the job market. Students there follow professional training programs ranging from 10 weeks to three years which allow them to obtain a certificate, diploma, or advanced degree. Subject to certain conditions, it is also possible to continue their studies at a university afterwards.
Two cycles structure the university curriculum in Australia. Firstly, the undergraduate cycle, which leads to a Bachelor's degree in three to five years. Secondly, the postgraduate cycle, lasting from six months to two years, allows students to obtain Graduate Certificates, Graduate Diplomas, Master's Degrees, and Doctoral Degrees (PhD).
Study Experience, for example, offers the opportunity to enroll in a Certificate program at TAFE or a Study Abroad program at universities, where you can spend a semester or a year combining English language improvement with academic subjects. This is a way to better prepare for future higher education, unlike students in their final year of secondary school who quickly reach their limits with these programs.
Studying in Australia: what are the formalities?
Let's be honest, except for exchange programs, tuition fees are high for those wishing to study in Australia. But with an unemployment rate hovering between 5% and 7%, the land of kangaroos has strong arguments for retaining its young graduates. Especially since most campuses are located in very attractive settings and resemble what you would expect from a real university campus (comfortable facilities, modern amenities, accessible professors, etc.).
For stays exceeding 90 days, all students are required to apply for a student visa (approximately €350) from the Australian embassy. Note that this visa allows you to work part-time during your studies and, good news, full-time during school holidays. The processing time for this visa can be up to eight weeks. You will also need proof of sufficient funds, your passport, and a Confirmation of Enrolment for Overseas Students (CEN), which you can request from your host university. While the academic year typically begins in February, it is also possible to start in July. TAFEs offer more intakes, up to four per year. Finally, be aware that university admission in Australia is selective; it goes without saying that (very) good academic results will greatly help you gain admission.
What level of English is required to study in Australia?
The program is selective due to its academic record (applications are based on application files), but also regarding English proficiency. To demonstrate sufficient level, international students must provide a minimum score on the TOEFL or IELTS . Otherwise, they will need to retake one of these tests. Please note that the required scores will vary depending on the program and the university. Learn more about these two language exams in a previous article . Don't worry, though; these two exams can be prepared for, and you can take them as many times as you wish.
Statistics published by the Department of Immigration and Border Protection indicate that 4,642 former Working Holiday Visa holders obtained a student visa in 2014/2015 after leaving Australia. Taking into account the various sub-classes of the Working Holiday Visa, some 13,000 young people went to study in Australia after using the Working Holiday program, which includes two types of visas depending on the country of residence: the Working Holiday Visa and the Work and Holiday Visa.
As is typical in Australian culture, studies should be viewed primarily as an investment, not an obligation, so that you can make the most of them once you return home... or even by staying there!