Applying for a Student Visa can seem tricky if you’re unsure of the process. We’ve applied for thousands of Student Visas and have come across some simple, yet critical steps that can increase the chances of a Student Visa being approved.
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Always Provide Complete and Accurate Information on the Student Visa Application Form
In general, the Student Visa Application is submitted online using the Form 157A. The Application requires in-depth and detailed information, including personal details of all Applicants, family members, education history, employment history, and travel history, just to name a few. It is crucial that you provide all information as accurately as possible.
Here are some tips to keep in mind when filling-in the Application Form:
Do:
- Ensure all Passport information and National ID Card information is correct for all Applicants
- Provide a Residential Address and Contact Information for your Home Country
- Provide All Academic and Employment History (including in Australia) for the Primary Applicant
- Provide All Travel Information for All Applicants over 18
- Provide Details and Explanations for Any Character and Health Questions
Do Not:
- Provide false or incorrect information
- Forget to list any family members, especially those who you will wish to add to your visa now or in the future
- List insufficient finances
- Forget to review the Application Draft before submitting.
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Write a Convincing Genuine Student Statement
The Genuine Student Statement is arguably one of the most important aspects of your Student Visa Application. The Student Visa is a Temporary Visa, meaning that at the time you apply for it, your intentions to stay in Australia should be temporary in nature. Immigration want to see that you are not trying use a Student Visa to remain in the country or gain residency, but that you genuinely want to study in Australia to take advantage of the great education system here.
To write a great Genuine Student Statement:
Do:
- Your homework on the Course, the Education Provider and the Location where you’ll be studying
- Show a genuine interest in the course and subject matter
- Relate the course to your previous education and/or work experience OR show Good reason for changing careers
- Emphasise your personal and social ties to your home country
- Your research on the employment opportunities relating to your course in your home country
Do Not:
- Mention any intention to apply for additional visas or Permanent Residence at the end of your course (such as Graduate, Skilled Work or Partner Visa)
- Mention your intention to seek out employment in Australia after your course finishes
- Discuss poor economic, political or employment circumstances in your home country
- Provide false information
You can find more tips on how to write a Great Genuine Student Statement Here.
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Meet the Health and Character Requirements
It is a requirement that you meet certain Health and Character Requirements in order for visa to be approved. In some cases, you may still be eligible for a Student Visa even if you have been convicted of a crime, have been refused or overstayed a visa, owe a debt to the Australian Government, or have a medical condition. You will be required to provide information and documentation to overcome these situations.
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Show Sufficient Funds
You are required to indicate that you have sufficient funds to cover the costs of living and studying in Australia. Applicants from some countries may be required to show evidence of sufficient funds; whereas Applicants from other countries only need to indicate they have sufficient funds on the Application Form. If you indicate anything less than the minimum amount required or if the evidence you provide is out of date or does not meet the requirement, your application may be refused.
The current financial requirements can be found here.
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Arrange Overseas Student Health Coverage (“OSHC”) for the Full Duration of Your Studies in Australia
All Applicants are required to have OSHC for the duration of the course. Typically, the student visa will be granted only for as long as the duration of your OSHC. Depending on the duration of your course, Immigration will permit you to stay in Australia for a temporary period after your course ends to allow you to tie up your loose ends, so long as your OSHC extends to cover this additional period.
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Complete Biometrics/Medical/Requests for More Information on Time
In some instances, you will be requested to complete biometrics collection or a medical exam or will be required to provide additional information. The request will indicate the length of time you have to complete the tasks or provide the information to immigration. It is typically 28 days. These tasks are time sensitive and if you do not complete the tasks or request an extension in the allotted time, immigration may refuse your visa application.
For more information on medical assessment and biometrics assessment click here.
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Keep Immigration Up-to-Date
It is important that you notify Immigration if there have been any significant changes in circumstances. In particular, if you move to a new address or change your email address or phone number, you need to inform immigration so that they can contact you if necessary. Additionally, if you get a new passport, you must notify immigration to be sure your visa corresponds to the correct passport.
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Use a Trusted and Experienced Education/Migration Agency
When considering applying for a student visa or any other visa, it is wise to consult a Registered Migration Agent. Immigration Policy changes frequently and there are several nuances to an Application that require a trained and experienced eye. If you have any questions or need any assistance, once of our Registered Migration Agents are happy to assist.
E: info@pathwaytoaus
P: +61 7 55 265 900
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