Over half a million foreign students from more than 190 countries made their way to Australia in 2018, SBS News reports. Australia is popular with foreign students for its robust education, stunning and varied landscape, cultural landmarks, and hospitality. Learning about the various different aspects of studying in Australia will leave you much better prepared for the application process and eventual move. 

You’ll need health insurance

International students in Australia are required to have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). The services covered by OSHC vary depending on the insurer and type of plan. A basic plan covers doctor visits, ambulance costs, and select hospital treatments and medications. You may also want to purchase private health insurance, which lets you access public and private treatment, choose doctors and hospitals, and avoid long wait times. To find a good deal, it’s worth getting a health insurance quote from Qantas. Qantas insurance covers private healthcare, while letting you collect points to purchase flight tickets, upgrades, and more. This’ll come in handy on vacations and flights home.

You’ll be able to work

If you want to earn some extra cash to help fund your stay in Australia, you’re in luck. International students with a valid student visa are permitted to work twenty hours a week during the school semester. You’re free to work as much as you want during vacation. However, even though you can arrive in the country ninety days before your course starts, you won’t be able to work until after your course begins. Work required as part of your course isn’t included in the 20-hours-per-week limit. Retail, hospitality, and administration are popular jobs for international students and the Australian minimum wage is very generous — $18.93 an hour. 

You’ll have access to scholarships 

The Australian government spends over $200 million each year on international scholarships. That means you’ll have access to a number of funds which can help make your international experience as affordable as possible. For example, the Destination Australia Program offers over 1000 scholarships of upto $15,000 per student each year to both international and domestic students. You should contact your university to find out what funding options are available to you and how to apply. 

Understandably, moving to Australia seems a daunting feat. However, it’s absolutely worth the challenge. After completing all the applications and arriving in Australia, you’ll be so glad you made the move.