Study abroad checklist for Australia
A single ordered path through intakes, visa compliance, funds, work rights and longer-term residency signals — distilled from NexStudy's country intelligence. For deep dives, use the linked hubs below each section.
1. Pick your intake and work backwards
- Semester 1: classes Feb–Mar — aim to apply by Oct–Nov (prev year)
- Secondary / rolling intakes: Semester 2: Jul–Aug (deadline Apr–May)
- Book IELTS / PTE / TOEFL early — peak-season slots in India fill 6–10 weeks ahead.
- Start transcripts, bank letters and recommendation drafts in parallel — these routinely take longer than students expect.
2. Visa and compliance
- Australia route: Student Visa (Subclass 500). Typical processing: 4–6. Reported success band in our guide: 72%.
- Documents checklist: CoE from university; GTE statement; Financial proof (A$21,041/yr); OSHC health insurance; English proficiency
- Official tip: Apply for visa as soon as you get your CoE
- Official tip: GTE statement is crucial — be genuine and specific
- Official tip: Show sufficient funds for full course duration
3. Budget and proof of funds
- Tuition band (typical): ₹20–38L/yr. All-in yearly estimate: ₹25–45L.
- Living: rent A$800–2,000/mo; food about A$300–500/month; transport A$50–150/month.
- Health cover: A$500–700/yr (OSHC).
4. Work rights and post-study runway
- Part-time while studying: 48 hrs/fortnight (during term). Minimum wage guide: A$23.23/hr.
- Post-study work: Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) — typical duration 2–4 years.
- Graduate employers cluster in: IT & Engineering, Healthcare, Hospitality, Education, Finance. Salary band: A$65,000–85,000 (employment rate guide 78%).
5. Longer-term residency (high level)
- Australia PR is commonly pursued via Skilled Migration (Subclass 189/190/491). Eligibility signal: 2–4 years post-study.
- Typical requirement: Skills assessment in nominated occupation
- Typical requirement: Minimum 65 points (age, English, experience)
- Typical requirement: State nomination (for 190/491)
- Typical requirement: Competent English (IELTS 6.0+ each)
- Strategy tip: Choose courses aligned with SOL (Skilled Occupation List)
- Strategy tip: Regional study gives 5 extra PR points
Related NexStudy guides
Frequently asked questions
- What is the first thing I should lock for Australia?
- Your intake window — Semester 1 — then reverse-plan test dates, transcripts and financial proof so visa processing (4–6) fits inside your offer timeline.
- How much money should I show for a Australia student visa?
- Use the yearly estimate ₹25–45L as a planning anchor (tuition ₹20–38L/yr plus living). Embassy rules vary by nationality — always cross-check the latest funds proof on the official immigration site.
- Can I work while studying in Australia?
- Typical part-time rule: 48 hrs/fortnight (during term). After graduation, many students pivot through Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) (2–4 years).