Living the Australian Life as an International Student

Being an international student in Australia allows you to experience a great learning experience along with a fantastic lifestyle. With the country housing globally ranked institutions, a multicultural society, high standards of living, and more, there are plenty of reasons to consider studying in Australia.

However, being prepared is what an overseas student would still need to be first, so they can thoroughly enjoy the Australian experience to a fuller extent. Finding oneself in an unfamiliar place is a feat for every international student, but with enough dedicated time to research and prepare beforehand, you will surely be able to quickly adapt to the Australian lifestyle and reap its benefits.

Learning environment

Lecture-style teaching is not used in Australian institutions. Furthermore, study in Australia groups work on practical tasks rather than theoretical ones.

The spring semester runs from July to November, whereas the autumn semester runs from February to July. The majority of students have classes Monday through Friday. Being in the Southern Hemisphere, summer breaks are usually from December to February.

Health

As part of the visa, you must have health insurance that covers doctor’s visits and some medications; your university can help you find a provider. However, if you have a serious illness, you may need a private plan.

Weather

Although Australia has a mild climate, the sun can still be harsh, so bring suitable clothing, a hat, and sunscreen with you when you arrive.

It is mainly hot and dry in Australia, but the coastal areas can get cold from May to September. In some areas, the weather might abruptly change to bring sudden rain, so purchasing an umbrella would be a smart decision.

Campus life

Welcome parties, campus tours, and university events kick off your campus life. If you come to know other students, you can also expect invitations to various social activities as the semester develops. But remember, you can’t afford to dilly-dally too much as you’ve come there to study. 

International students can thrive in modern cities with vast open areas and breathtaking sceneries. In a naturally rich environment like Australia, there are also plenty of natural outdoor activities to do such as hiking, scuba diving, skiing, and more.

On-campus, international student support programs provided by state governments and student organizations guarantee that students receive the best advice about their legal rights and in-demand career skills.

Transportation

The public transportation system in Australia is quite efficient, and there are private and public car rental options. Some educational institutions have their transportation as well. The cost varies depending on the city and mode of transportation.

You are allowed to drive if you have a driver’s license from your native country. Some states may require you to take a test three months following your arrival.

Part-time jobs

You can work 20 hours per week while studying, and full-time during your semester break as an international student. You might also be able to find work in your chosen field. In Australia, the minimum wage is around A$16 before taxes.

Culture

Australia is a multicultural country. You can find diverse religions, languages, history, and art. International students studying in Australia will be immersed in an exciting and diverse environment.

Discover more about the wonders of Australia by visiting MSM Unify.