5 AUS-some Preparation Tips Before Studying in Australia

Your Study Prep Essentials

International study can open opportunities to expand your horizons, gain deeper knowledge, and build skills that support your goals and future career. It strengthens cross-cultural communication and helps you ease into a global mindset.

When it comes to studying in Australia, good preparation can make all the difference. Here are 5 essential preparation tips you need to know before starting so you can step confidently into your journey.

#1 Study something you’re genuinely passionate about

Invest in something you want to do. 

• When you’re passionate about what you’re studying, you’re more motivated to learn and engaged in activities that help you grow as a student. 
• You’re more eager to absorb lectures and training, and you’re determined to do well and persevere. 
• Your ability to bounce back from setbacks and challenges increases, even if the workload gets overwhelming. 
• Studying what you love is rewarding because it makes you feel fulfilled in what you do, even if you aren’t fully seeing the results yet. 

Extra Tip: If you’re still unsure of what your passion is, shortlist recreational activities you participate in. Then find courses that are aligned with those, and narrow it down from there.

🟠 Learn more about what the international student experience is like from our Pathway to Aus clients.

#2 Know your long-term goal

Fun study abroad or Pathway to PR?

• Knowing your goal helps guide you on your path. It helps you make sound and aligned decisions. 
• It keeps your focus clear so you can efficiently put your time, energy, and resources into your priorities. 
• It gives you the drive to overcome challenges and find solutions to setbacks— remembering your why. 
• It provides you with the right circumstances to take chances that can directly impact your future. 

Extra Tip: Write down your 1 or 2-year goals and then map out what that would look like for you. A gentle reminder that flexibility and adaptability are key to your journey. It will help you be able to navigate unforeseen circumstances and course-correct along the way.    

 🟠 Find a course you love from our Find a Course page.

#3 Expand learning opportunities in regional study locations

There’s more to Australia than the capital cities. 

Studying in regional areas isn’t just about location — it’s about the quality of education, opportunities being given, and unique experiences you’ll get that may differ from what the major cities provide. 

Why there’s potential in a regional area: 

• More visa opportunities
• Greater work prospects 
• Wider variety of courses 
• Different pricing at schools
• More affordable study options 

Extra Tip: Research on different universities or colleges that offer the course that you want. Compare them based on the factors that you feel are important to you (cost, location, course program, school environment, etc), then make a decision from there. 

🟠 Want to know which courses are available in different locations? Check them all here.
🟠 Discover and learn about The Best Regional Place to Study in Australia.

#4 Specific preparation matters

 Lessen the possibilities of worry by ensuring a level of preparedness. 

Academics

• Understand the course you’re taking
• Take the necessary English proficiency test
• Hone your study skills
• Learn more about your school

Visa Requirements

• Prepare your Student Visa (500)
• Secure the mandatory Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
• Important documents

Finances

• Plan your budget
• Open an Australian bank account
• Apply for prospective scholarships 
• Get part-time work

Accommodation

• Check possible housing options
• Research the neighbourhoods
• Make a list of your essential items

Health 

• Do an annual check-up and get vaccinated (if needed)
• Learn about the school’s mental health support program
• Prepare a personal health kit
• Pack various clothing for different weather conditions

Cultural and Social

• Immerse yourself in the local culture 
• Learn about Australian laws and how it applies to international students
• Create a social circle you can anchor to
• Build your own tools and resources to mentally and emotionally prepare and support you

Travel

• Book everything in advance
• Have available copies for important documents
• Get an Australian mobile plan or SIM card

Mindset

• Set personal and study goals 
• Be flexible and adaptable 
• Explore recreational and extra-curricular activities outside school
• Make time for rest and relaxation

Extra Tip: Try to make a to-do list for the first few days upon arriving in Australia. It helps you gain perspective and keeps you focused on one thing at a time. Whether it’s acclimating or resting, writing it down and having visual cues helps. 

🟠 Take a deeper dive into the Student Visa (500) requirements.
🟠 Find possible places to stay in our PTA accommodation page.

#5 Talk to education experts

The option to speak to those with knowledge and expertise to get a clear direction of your study goals is always available for you. 

• Education agents and experts are helpful in your study journey because they can provide you with the knowledge about the process — from enrolment to graduation. 
• They also share wise advice for your visa and immigration requirements, and your finances as an international student. 
• They help map out a potential long-term career plan that works best for you. 
• Ultimately, they help you save time and effort in navigating the steps in a way that’s practical and in line with your goals. 

🟠 Discover the different visas that you can apply for that may lead you to a potential PR.

Extra Tip: If you’re interested in discovering study pathways you can take, feel free to  contact us at Pathway to Aus and speak with one of our lead education agents to guide you on your way.

Study-Work-Migrate

Every journey starts with a single step, and yours could lead you to study, work, and migrate to Australia. Given the information you’ve gained and the resources you have now, we’d be glad to walk with you through unchartered territory.