In order to study in Australia, you must hold a valid student visa. Student visas are issued on the understanding that you have sufficient funds to cover your tuition fees and living expenses while in Australia. They are for full-time study only. The university that you apply to will give you all the details required to apply for your visa.

As an international student with a valid visa, you can work for up to 20 hours a week while your course is in session. You can work full time during school vacations. You will need to apply for 'permission to work' after you start your course. Your university will give you the details of how to apply.

You must obtain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) to cover you while you are studying in Australia. This rule also applies to any members of your immediate family who join you here. The health insurance fee must be paid before your visa can be issued. You will need to renew your cover annually if you study for more than one year.

Your university can help you to organise a temporary place to stay when you first arrive, and somewhere to suit you for the duration of your course. Universities offer a range of student housing on campus or nearby, including halls of residence, and single or shared units and apartments. The university accommodation office can help you find a homestay or share house, or advise you on renting. It won’t be long before you have a comfortable, affordable and convenient place to call home.

You can travel during semester breaks and during the time before or after you study. Australia has a huge diversity of sites to see, from beautiful white sand beaches to striking outback settings; from multicultural metropolitan cities to small, quaint towns; and everything in between! Australia is also in proximity with New Zealand and the Asia-Pacific region so there are many travel options.

Although Australia has one of the highest standards of living in the world, tuition and living costs are substantially less than in many other countries, such as the United States or those in Western Europe. An Australian study experience may cost less than you'd think. You can also look into scholarships for international students, exchange programs with tuition paid at your existing university, and work opportunities while you study. Check with your prospective university for more information and to find out exact tuition costs.

You could take an English language course, or just improve your skills by studying in an English-speaking environment. Your university will be able to help with courses and study support if you need it. The best way to improve your grasp of a language is by speaking, reading and writing it in practical situations. Australia welcomes many migrants, students and tourists who do not speak English as their native language, so there is no need to be shy. You will find plenty of people to practise with.