If you're planning to study in Australia and you're there for the most amazing experience of a lifetime! Every year, thousands of students from all over the world take up courses at universities and colleges to discover the beauty that is only in Australia.
Although studying abroad in Australia is a lot of fun, there are a lot of issues to be considered prior to and during your time abroad. These include things such as how to budget your funds and where you'll be staying and how to get acquainted with the new environment, how to establish a bank account and many other important life hacks which make studying in a different country simpler.
If you're headed to Australia to attend Uni take a look at our most important tips to make it through Australia as an undergraduate.
Budget Your Money
It's true that budgeting money may not be the most exciting thing you do, but it's a crucial element of the travel experience.
If you plan your budget in a way that is logical before leaving your home country, you'll be able to get an idea of how much your money will go while travelling in Australia.
Be aware of the cost of expenses like:
- Visa fees
- Health insurance
- Tuition
- Books
- Student Housing
- Transportation
- Food
- Activities
- Travel.
- To give you an idea, the typical cost for international undergraduate students who study in Australia is about AU$30840 (that's around 22,000 dollars USD). It's crucial that you're prepared to pay these costs to live in Australia. If you're a student, it's difficult to accept these expenses.
- Expenses, therefore, looking into opportunities for scholarships, summer jobs in your home country prior to departing for Australia and keeping track of your spending will help you keep track of yours.
- Maintain Your Health in Check with International Health Insurance
In your visa application, all international students studying in Australia have to secure overseas student health insurance (OSHC). The insurance plan should cover you throughout the duration of your studies, and students are able to select between five OSHC insurance providers. If you're unsure what to pick, you can talk to either your local or Australian university, and they will guide you in the appropriate direction.
OSHC provides basic healthcare, like the cost of visiting doctors and medications. But, it doesn't be able to cover everything you need (especially in the case of the most complex health issue). It is worth looking into an insurance plan that you can purchase privately while abroad to be sure that your medical needs are protected.
Find the Right Student Accommodation
There's no doubt that the Land Down Under is well-known for its student accommodations in AU. You're spoiled for choice in terms of the way you'd like to carry through your time abroad, regardless of whether you're within a private well-furnished studio or in a furnished, shared apartment. It's your choice!
The most sought-after destination for international students, Sydney is home to more than a dozen universities, which means there are plenty of fantastic student housing options in Sydney. There's also amazing student housing in Brisbane as well as student accommodation in Melbourne and Melbourne - two more great Australian cities that are renowned for their best Unis.
Whatever your choice to study in another country, take the time to allow Unilodgers to assist you in finding the ideal student accommodation. Our services are not only completely free to you. We also negotiate the most competitive costs, offer you the convenience of online booking that is instant and secure and assign you to the Student Support Specialist, who will be with you throughout your Unilodgers journey.
Open a Bank Account
The process of opening a bank account in Australia is simple. Many Australian banks will accept applications for students online and allow you to transfer money prior to making a move.
Students may choose to bank at either among the Big Four banks in Australia or a smaller regional bank, based on the bank they prefer.
Here are the different types of banks that international students may open:
Everyday Transaction Account
If you're looking to learn how to get through Australia as a college student and also manage your finances efficiently, then you'll need one of these accounts! With a transaction account for everyday use, it will come with the option of using a debit card to purchase items at shops or pay bills online and withdraw or deposit money from ATMs or banks.
Everyday Transaction Account for Students
It's similar to the one above and is indeed the case generally true. However, it will save you some cash right from the beginning by not imposing an annual fee for your account as you're a college student.
Traditional Savings Account
If you're able save in another country, you might be able to link an account for savings to your daily transaction account. Look for an institution that has high-interest savings accounts that can aid you in growing your funds when you travel to Australia.
Immerse Yourself in the Culture
One of the most effective tips for students from abroad in Australia that we have to offer is to completely be a part of the cultural aspects. Australia is a melting pot of different customs and cultures, and connecting with the locals could help you appreciate the splendour of the Australian people.
Locals will also be able to provide you with advice on the top places to eat, attractions or nightlife things to do. Also, Australians are notoriously friendly, So don't be afraid to make the first move and smile and say "g'day" next time you're in a group with Aussies (one among our five suggestions for newcomers).
Learn How to Use Public Transportation
It's likely that you'll not be driving while doing your studies abroad in Australia. How will you navigate around the city? Understanding public transportation is among the most important aspects of surviving in Australia as an undergraduate.
Australia is currently home to a variety of modes of transport that are available based on the location you're in, such as ferries, trains, buses and light rail. When you're in your new town, take a look around and determine the best option for you. Do you want to take the bus to school or even to the CBD, or would you prefer something else? Whatever the case, public transport is an excellent method to get acquainted with new surroundings.
Study Quickly and Efficiently
You're probably studying abroad to help you achieve your educational goals. However, you shouldn't keep your eyes glued to an unread book all the duration of your stay abroad. A solid study plan can help you soak up all the information you require quickly and effectively.
Write notes in class to help you synthesize the information, then colour code the notes in a uniform way that you comprehend and then study from there. Divide and take on a study partner and have them test each other's knowledge of the material.
There are many ways you can learn to avoid having to spend all of your time in libraries. You just have to discover what is most suitable for you.
Plan Weekend Getaways
In the event that you don't spend the entirety of your study abroad experience at the university, have you given any thought to where you'd prefer to take a trip on weekends? Australia offers a variety of gorgeous and interesting destinations to travel to when you're not away from Uni.
A quick Google search will provide you with the possibilities only an hour away. Because Australia is famous for its stunning outdoor scenery, You may wish to spend your weekend exploring cities and beaches or even venture out on the Outback and explore the many National Parks. One of the best ways to get around on a budget is to hire an automobile with a group of people or book last-minute, cheap domestic flights.
Stay Connected to Home
Depending on the country you reside in and the country you live in, your phone could be able to work in Australia. Do your homework when it comes to internationally-bound calls, roaming and SIM card use since they could add additional charges added to the monthly bill. If you don't want to be a victim of the high costs associated with your mobile phone, you could always use Skype FaceTime, Skype, or iMessage on your PC or iPhone or choose low-cost alternatives.