Obtaining a VISA

Obtaining a Student Visa

You must obtain a Student Visa before you come to study in Australia.

The Australian Government issues students visas for full-time study on the understanding that you study on-campus and have sufficient funds to cover your tuition fees and living expenses for the duration of your time in Australia. The cost of living for an international student is approximately AUD$18,000 (excluding tuition fee).

Visa applications are assessed by the Australian Government according to:

• your country assessment level
• the visa sub-class or education sub-class that is relevant in your case, and
• medical, financial and English language requirements.

If you are in Australia on a student visa, you must maintain satisfactory academic progress at all times. The University is obliged to advise DIAC when an International Student Visa holder is not maintaining satisfactory academic progress. This may result in an automatic visa cancellation. 

If you experience any difficulties during your studies, please get in contact with UWS International who can direct you to the relevant support service.

Student visas automatically grant students permission to do paid work while studying (up to 20 hours per week while your course is in session and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks).

Visa regulations for studying in Australia are set by the Australian government's Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC).

More information about Australian Student Visas can be obtained from the DIAC website.

The Department of Immigration and Citizenship has comprehensive information on:

• Studying in Australia 
• Applying to Study in Australia including student visa application forms

The Student Visa application process
On receipt of an offer letter from UWS, you may begin the Student Visa application process. If you are applying to study with assistance from one of our authorised overseas agents, they will be able to assist you with these procedures.

On receipt of your Acceptance of Offer and fee payment, an electronic Confirmation of Enrolment (eCoE) will be sent to the Australian Embassy or Diplomatic Post named on the eCoE. A copy will also be sent to you or your agent to include with your Australian Student Visa application. Students from some countries may be eligible for an e-visa application. Please check the DIAC website for details.

If you hold a current student visa, UWS will send you your eCOE upon receipt of your course acceptance. You must apply for a new student visa prior to the expiry of your current visa.

Bringing family
Students wishing to bring children and/or their spouse (dependents) will need to consider:

• visas
• health cover
• schooling

Family members of student visa holders have several options to apply to come with you to Australia. For more information, please visit the DIAC website.