Why students should consider studying in Australia

International students in Australia share why they chose to study there and how the diverse international student community helped them to settle in

There are many factors propelling the surge of international students applying for universities in Australia, including the wide spectrum of course choices, availability of scholarships and research fellowships, post-study work rights and work opportunities, and a multicultural society. 

Here are some things that international students can expect if they choose to study in Australia. 

Expect the unexpected

Before arriving in Australia from India, Deakin University business analytics student Adyant thought of “beaches, wildlife and multiculturalism” when he thought of Australia. Psychology student Shruti from New Delhi expected “kangaroos, diversity and completely opposite weather from where I come from”.

Australia is quite different from other countries when it comes to the landscape that international students experience here. For young Indian students, the international study experience is just as important as the academic and professional enhancement possibilities. 

Being far away from home, international students have felt comfortable among the large international student population. Shruti agrees and affirms that the diversity helped her feel at home. She says: “If I am missing something from India, I think I can find it in Melbourne, so I don’t really miss anything.”

Getting here and living on or around campus

For many new students arriving in Australia and starting at their universities, this process of getting started can be daunting, but also exciting. 

Most universities will hold orientation weeks and welcome sessions to help students feel settled. There is always a wealth of events and activities for new students to engage in.

At Deakin University a series of events are set up from the moment students arrive to ensure everyone feels welcomed and excited about their time at Deakin and in Australia. These include a Welcome to the Country event, local tours, shopping trips and wildlife experiences.

Wherever one chooses to study in Australia they can choose to live on or off campus. Living costs vary based on the city and the type of accommodation. Understanding living costs and planning a budget will need to include understanding the cost of accommodation, utilities, transport and groceries in Australia. One can learn more about living costs through Study Australia and use its Cost of Living Calculator to get a broad estimate of potential costs.

Sakshi, a biomedical science student and a residential leader at Deakin, understands the challenges faced by students arriving in Australia for the first time, having travelled from India herself. “Being a residential leader, I want to make it a smooth, enjoyable, safe and welcoming environment for everyone…You will be surrounded by awesome people, so don’t stress. Everyone is unique, so don’t try to change yourself to align with the majority,” she says. 

Not everyone chooses to live on campus and there are many who find accommodation nearby and can travel to campus on public transport, which is usually well connected.

Working and exploring

International students can work part-time depending on the conditions of their visas. Working can provide great opportunities, be it for extra income or for study-related work experience.

Professional work experience can also help to prepare you for your future career. Many degrees include work experience, known as work-integrated learning (WIL), as a requirement or elective unit. Moreover, there will be online jobs databases to support students and graduates to find secure employment. They will also be given access to career tools and resources to increase the chances of finding part-time work while studying.

Making friends and living in the community

Hannah, an Australian student studying at Deakin, says: “International students play a vital role, not only within the university, but also within the community – sharing their values, teaching others and showcasing their cultures. It has been a privilege to be able to engage with students who might have similar interests but are from the other side of the world.”

The key to a great international study experience is making the most of every opportunity and being open to trying new things. 

Beyond the academic benefits, studying abroad allows students to build upon their individual aspirations and skills, acquire significant cultural immersion and a global edge that ultimately adds to personal growth.