Study In Australia: Free Pathways For Filipinos

how to study in australia from philippines for free

Australia is a popular destination for international students, ranking third in the English-speaking world. The country boasts a high standard of living, a multicultural society, and a vibrant economy, making it an attractive prospect for students from the Philippines. While studying in Australia for free is generally not possible for international students, there are scholarships and other financial aid schemes available at Australian universities. This includes AU$200 million in scholarships and post-study work visas. Additionally, international students with a student visa can work for up to 40 hours per fortnight, providing them with much-needed money and experience. Australia offers a wide range of courses at over 1,000 institutions, with globally recognised degrees in various fields.

Characteristics Values
Popularity Australia is the third most popular destination for international students in the English-speaking world.
Filipino students Over 6000 Filipino students study in Australia.
Student visa International students can work up to 40 hours per fortnight.
Post-study visa Students can stay and work in Australia for 2-4 years after graduation.
Scholarships Scholarships and financial aid schemes are available for international students.
English language test Some universities do not require a minimum IELTS score and accept other tests such as TOEFL, PTE, and Duolingo.
Deadlines Intake deadlines vary according to the school and level of study.
Courses There are over 20,000 courses at more than 1,000 institutions.

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Scholarships and financial aid

Although studying in Australia for free is generally not possible for international students, there are scholarships and other financial aid schemes available at Australian universities for international students, including those from the Philippines.

The Australian government provides robust support to international students, including AU$200 million in scholarships and post-study work visas. There are also more than 6,000 Filipino students in Australia who are able to access numerous scholarships to finance their studies.

If you have a specific university in mind, it is recommended that you contact a counsellor to learn more about its scholarship opportunities.

In addition to scholarships, international students in Australia with a student visa can work for up to 40 hours per fortnight, offering some much-needed money and experience. Australia also has a visa that allows you to stay and work in the country for 2 to 4 years after graduation, depending on the qualification you gain.

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Student visa and work opportunities

To study in Australia, international students from the Philippines must obtain a student visa. The type of visa depends on the study programme and its duration. The Student Visa (Subclass 500) is the most common type, suitable for individuals enrolling in a recognised full-time course for the duration of their studies. The Student Guardian Visa (Subclass 590) is for those accompanying their child, who holds a Subclass 500 visa. The Training Visa (Subclass 407) is a sponsored visa for individuals participating in work-related training and other professional programmes.

The application process for an Australian student visa is as follows:

  • Create and sign into your ImmiAccount on the Department of Home Affairs website.
  • Upload all necessary documents, including a valid passport, proof of criminal records (if any), English proficiency test results, passport-sized photos, health and character certificates, and proof of sufficient funds.
  • Pay the visa application fee and other related costs.
  • Ensure your application is accurate and complete with the DIBP's Document Checklist Tool.

All documents should be in English, and applicants must undertake health examinations and provide biometrics at approved clinics. Individuals under 18 may need to provide additional documents affirming parental consent. The application should be submitted no later than six weeks before the start of the course and no earlier than 12 weeks.

Once in Australia on a student visa, individuals are permitted to work. International students have the same workplace rights and protections as other workers in Australia. From 1 July 2023, students can work up to 48 hours every fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during holiday breaks. Casual work offers flexibility with no fixed number of hours each week.

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University and course options

Australia is home to top-ranked universities that offer a wide range of courses at different levels of study. The country is known for its scenic beauty, vibrant economy, and multiple opportunities for work and personal growth, making it the third most popular destination for international students.

With over 1,000 institutions and 20,000 courses in diverse fields, choosing the right university and course can be challenging. Some fields that are popular among international students include business, engineering, health sciences, and information technology.

When selecting a university, it is essential to consider factors such as location, student satisfaction, and the availability of scholarships and financial aid. Australia has many universities with high student satisfaction ratios, and some universities with high ratings for student satisfaction include the University of Melbourne, the University of Sydney, and Monash University.

Additionally, scholarships and financial aid can significantly alleviate the financial burden of studying in Australia. Many universities in Australia offer scholarships specifically for international students, and it is recommended to contact the universities directly to inquire about their scholarship opportunities.

It is also important to plan your application process well in advance, as university intake deadlines in Australia can vary depending on the school and level of study. The February intake is the most popular, followed by the July intake, while the November intake has a limited number of courses and applicants.

Overall, with its diverse range of universities and courses, Australia offers a wealth of opportunities for international students from the Philippines to pursue their academic and career goals.

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English language proficiency requirements

To study in Australia, international students must meet English language requirements to gain entry into their course and receive a student visa. These requirements vary depending on your desired institution and level of study, country of citizenship, and whether you plan to take an ELICOS course upon arrival in Australia.

If English is your first language, you must have citizenship or permanent long-term residency (minimum 10 years) and have completed secondary or tertiary education in an English-speaking country recognised by the university. Recognised English-speaking countries include:

  • Australia
  • The United States of America
  • The United Kingdom
  • Canada
  • New Zealand
  • Nigeria
  • South Africa
  • And many others

If your qualification was not conducted entirely in English, you may still be eligible if you have completed a specific subject (usually English or humanities) in a recognised qualification. There is a 10-year time limit for the qualification to the date you commence your studies in Australia.

You can also demonstrate English proficiency through a record of satisfactory achievement in one of the following:

  • A completed and recognised secondary education qualification undertaken in English, such as the Cambridge GCE Advanced Levels and International Baccalaureate diploma
  • A completed and recognised foundation/preparation program with the required grades in relevant English subjects
  • At least one year of full-time (or part-time equivalent) study in a recognised bachelor's degree or other approved higher education qualification

There are five English language tests accepted for student visa applications in Australia:

  • International English Language Testing System (IELTS)
  • Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) internet-based test (paper-based tests are accepted from limited countries)
  • Occupational English Test (OET)
  • Cambridge C1 Advanced
  • Cambridge C2 Proficiency

All English tests need to be no more than two years old at the date of course commencement. Students assessed at a higher immigration risk level will need to provide evidence of English language proficiency through an approved test score.

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Living expenses and budgeting

Living in Australia involves budgeting for four primary areas of cost: accommodation, transportation, food and dining, and healthcare and fitness. As a student, your first concern should be the timely payment of your dues so you can continue studying.

Accommodation

The cost of rent in Australia varies depending on the location and type of accommodation. Sydney and Melbourne are the most expensive cities, with some housing options charging more than $800 weekly. In general, living in the city centre is more expensive than living in the suburbs. Locations near universities tend to be pricier due to high demand. On-campus housing is typically more expensive than off-campus options. For a cheaper option, consider sharing a house with other students.

Transportation

Public transportation in Australia is generally reliable and affordable, with options including buses, trains, and trams. Consider purchasing a student concession card to save on travel expenses.

Food and Dining

Food and dining costs can vary depending on your dietary preferences and how often you eat out. Initially, try to reduce your expenses and opt for a low-budget lifestyle. Avoid wasting money on expensive food. Buy local produce and cook at home instead of eating out.

Healthcare and Fitness

Australia has a high standard of living, with top-notch healthcare. However, healthcare costs can add up, so ensure you have adequate health insurance coverage. Many universities offer health services for students at a reduced cost. Take advantage of the outdoor lifestyle and free activities to stay fit on a budget.

Budgeting Tips

Budgeting is crucial for managing your finances and avoiding financial stress. Here are some tips to help you budget effectively:

  • Use a cost-of-living calculator: Tools like the Australian government's official cost-of-living calculator can help you estimate your monthly expenses based on your lifestyle, location, and spending patterns.
  • Save and reduce unnecessary expenses: Open a savings account to build financial security. Avoid spending on expensive clothes, food, or travel.
  • Work part-time: International students can work up to 40 hours every 2 weeks during their studies and unlimited hours during holiday breaks. The minimum hourly rate is around PHP650 per hour, and you can earn up to AUD 640.90 (PHP 23,053.92) per week. If you earn less than AUD 18,200 a year, you're eligible for a complete tax rebate.
  • Send money home cost-effectively: Services like ACE Money Transfer offer competitive exchange rates for sending money from Australia to the Philippines.

While studying in Australia may not be free, proper research, budgeting, and part-time work can help make your educational journey more affordable.

Frequently asked questions

Studying in Australia for free is generally not possible for international students, including those from the Philippines. However, there are scholarships and other financial aid schemes available at Australian universities for international students.

Australia is the third most popular destination for international students and has a welcoming environment for international students. The country offers reasonably high student satisfaction ratios, a multicultural society, a vibrant economy, and post-study work visas. It is also easy to find cheap flights back to the Philippines.

It is usually a requirement to prove your English proficiency to gain entry into a university in Australia. However, some universities may only prioritise your prior qualifications and skills in the English language. It is also advisable to apply well before the intake deadline, which varies according to the school and level of study.

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