Eligibility Requirements

Here are top reasons why studying in the US could be the best decision of your life:

Academic excellence

The US boasts of some of the finest universities, a lot of which consistently rank in the world university rankings. American institutions are also known to have high academic standards, follow rigorous practices to maintain quality and are well-supported to be able to offer excellent education to its students. As per the QS World Ranking 2019. 33 of the top 100 universities are from the US. Similarly, Times Higher Education Ranking has also ranked seven of the American universities in its top 10 list of universities.

Flexible education system

American universities and colleges offer a myriad of courses and programs to choose from. You have the freedom to not only select the course content, but also the structure. At the undergraduate level, you have the liberty to pursue different courses before they you declare your major at the end of the second year. This helps to explore your subject interest and then decide without much hurry. Similarly, for your graduate studies, you can choose your preference and when you progress for your dissertation, you can focus on the ideas you want to emphasise upon.

Excellent support system for international students

American universities understand the struggles of international students and therefore conduct regular orientation programs, workshops and trainings to offer assistance. In fact, the international student office helps students like you to get accustomed to a new kind of lifestyle – whether it is an academic query, cultural or social, the staff will be there to assist you round the clock.

Cultural diversity

The US is a melting pot of different cultures, races and ethnicities. Its diverse environment ensures that there is acceptance among all communities and there is no room for any sort of discrimination. You’ll be learning with students from different regions of the world thereby making it a rich and stimulating education experience. Growing in the midst of diversity will provide you with strong personality traits and skills that will be valuable in the international market. These days employers prefer students with a multi-cultural background, which you would get a great taste of in the US. A one of a kind international exposure, the US will help you explore variety of cuisines, customs, festivals and art too.

Lively and vibrant campus life

It’s a known fact that campus life of the US is matchless. Irrespective of the university you study in, you will find yourself in the midst of new cultural experiences and the American way of life. Embrace it and open yourself up to new ideas and new people.

Student Visa

There are three types of Student Visas for to stay in the US such as-

F1 Student Visa- F1 Student Visa is for the students who you have a program which requires 18 hours of study in a week. This includes all undergraduate programs as well as graduate programs like MS, MBA, etc.

J1 Exchange Visitor Visa- This is for visiting scholars or lecturers pursuing an exchange program, working professionals on exchange programs.

M-1 Vocational/ Non-Academic Student Visa- This Visa type is for students attending vocational and technical schools.

U.S. degrees have an excellent international reputation

It’s hardly a secret that top universities in the U.S. continue to maintain a strong presence among the best ranked education institutions in the world. Partially this has to do with how well-funded and supported American universities are, but it also has to do with the high academic standards and rigorous requirements that they instil in their students.

With their always-changing and evolving classrooms, these universities continue to attract students from all over the world, and are courageously working every year to change the education they deliver so that foreign students from all over the world are prepared to go back home and find wonderful careers opportunities.

American city street view:

American universities are bastions of cultural diversity

Nearly every university in the U.S. takes diversity to be one of their defining pillars. Historically, there has been a strong effort within the structure of these higher education institutions to increase the number of educational opportunities and make cultural diversity central to the enrollment and admission efforts.

Students often remark that their classes and dormitories are full of students from every nationality, religion, or ethnicity, and having access to and contact with so many cultural backgrounds makes the experience that much more thrilling.

If you go to a university in the U.S., you will feel immediately comfortable around people who share a similar background and who have new ideas and perspectives to share. Studying abroad, in general, is one way to nurture your tolerance and openness to other cultures; studying abroad in America adds another dimension, exposing you not only to the U.S. culture, but to the languages and beliefs of people from nationalities all over the world.

U.S. universities offer excellent support facilities

In an effort to make your transition to a U.S. university smoother, these institutions offer plenty of support to prepare international students for their classes. Through various workshops, English-language practice courses, orientations, and trainings, foreign students are given plenty of help to get them ready for their classes.

Moreover, there is some effort to allow international students the ability to stay in the U.S. after they graduate, so that they can attempt to pursue a wonderful career at some of the world’s biggest companies. In 2016, a massive effort was taken to allow graduates from STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) to stay for 24 months to get work experience and extend their stay.

With this opportunity, you have the chance to look for work in fields that are always seeking ambitious and hard-working students; and with this extension, you can stay in the U.S. to find your footing at some of the biggest companies.

There are extraordinary study opportunities all over the U.S. and they are available to students everywhere:

Study Computer Science in the U.S.
Study an MBA in the U.S.
Study Mechanical Engineering in the U.S.

U.S. universities invest in optimised classroom experiences

As technology continues to innovate and change the way that information is delivered, university classrooms are trying to keep in step with the rapid acceleration of ideas.

By giving students more access to web-based classes, utilising computer-based tests, and allowing students to use different labs and resources, universities are able to give you the latest and most modern classroom experience that you can imagine.

Check out some of the most high-tech universities in the U.S:

California Institute of Technology
Cornell University
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Carnegie Mellon University
University of California, Los Angeles
With these advanced capabilities and access to all kinds of resources, American universities keep the education up-to-date, with all of the gadgets and engaging virtual experiences that this generation of students is already accustomed to.

If you study in the U.S.A, you will find yourself immediately introduced to new ways of studying, learning, researching, and taking tests.

Also, have a look at this article about the Most Beautiful College Campuses in the United States and see why studying in America might feel like you’re on a luxury vacation all the time.

American city viewed from far away

American universities offer a flexible academic environment

Studying abroad in America provides an ideal environment for students, characterized by flexible methods of education and continuous development process for students in the various fields of studies.

Depending on your strengths, interests, and goals, U.S. universities deliberately shift their classroom structures and instruction methods to make learning engaging and, at the same time, relevant to your own domain.

Find Masters in the USA

U.S. colleges and universities are casual and relaxed. Students are under no obligation to show up to every single class, or to stay for an entire lecture. Now, just because you can avoid and skip classes, it doesn’t mean you should.

Get a first-rate education

The American education system is renowned across the world for its high academic standards. Indeed, the QS World University Rankings 2022 lists 26 US universities among the top 100 universities worldwide!

Moreover, many US universities are very well funded, which means that its students can benefit from state-of-the-art facilities and forward-thinking technologies that provide an innovative classroom experience.

For example, Arizona State University has been ranked the number 1 “most innovative university” by U.S. News & World Report for the past 7 years in a row for its ongoing improvements to the curriculum, campus life, facilities and technology.

At US universities, you’ll also have the chance to enjoy lots of hands-on learning even during undergraduate study. These opportunities could include research, clinicals, and field work, and your professors will mentor you along the way to ensure you’re gaining the skills you need.

Studying abroad at a US university is a great investment in your future, giving you an excellent education and preparing you for anything you dream of doing after graduation.

student talking on phone

Prepare for your future career
A degree from a US university is extremely impressive and that alone makes studying in the USA an excellent choice. However, the life experience and skills you’ll gain during your studies are equally important. Employers seek well-rounded candidates and often prefer graduates who already have some work experience.

Fortunately, universities in the United States tend to have a strong focus on career development and internships. For example, Pace University in New York offers an innovative program called INSPIRE, which provides career guidance specifically for international students.

By gaining professional experience before you graduate, you’ll have a head start when it comes to finding better-paying jobs and starting your dream career. Moreover, in today’s globalized world, it’s extremely valuable to have cross-cultural work experience.

You could even take advantage of Optional Practical Training (OPT), which allows you to work in the USA on your student visa for up to 3 years after you graduate.

Customize your educational experience
The US higher education system typically offers you the opportunity to explore a wide range of subjects at the undergraduate level before you declare your major at the end of your second year of study. This means that you can round out your education with classes that are completely different from your main field of study.

At the graduate level, you can usually personalize your program with elective courses and combined degree options. For example, at the undergraduate level, you can choose undecided or exploratory majors, easily change majors, add on a major / minor, or even design one of your own!

The University of Connecticut’s Academic Center for Exploratory Students (ACES) offers an “Exploratory — Undecided” major option for students who want to explore the University’s options before deciding on a field of study. Students can also choose a “Pre-Individualized Major,” which lets them design their own interdisciplinary degree.

Another great feature of the US higher education system is transfer admission, which allows you to easily transfer existing undergraduate credits between US universities, or even from a university in another country.

Flexible approaches to academic study like this could lead you to a new interest you hadn’t considered before. It also allows you to make an educated choice about what you want to major in. It’s another excellent reason for choosing to study abroad in the USA!

Travel around the USA
The USA is a huge country offering an incredibly diverse range of landscapes, cultures and experiences. If you choose to study abroad in the USA, you’ll have many opportunities to explore this fascinating country.

You could visit famous attractions like the Grand Canyon in Arizona, travel along the east coast, including Boston and New York City, explore the country’s impressive national parks, soak up some sunshine in California, and so much more. Traveling around the USA is a dream for many people and, with so much to see and do, it’s easy to understand why.

Perfect your English
One of the most popular reasons to study abroad in the USA is to improve your English. There is nothing like living and studying in a country to help you master a language.

By studying in the USA, you’ll immerse yourself in the culture, meet native English-speakers, and broaden your vocabulary. All of this will help you feel more confident about your language skills, and having a higher level of English could even help you stand out when you apply for jobs after you graduate.

Experience American campus life
Another exciting reason to study abroad in the USA is that it will give you the chance to experience American culture and campus life.

The USA is well known for its dynamic university campuses and vibrant college communities. With everything from college sports to music, drama and volunteering, it’s easy to get involved, meet new people, and make the most of your US study experience.

Benefit from great international student support
As an international student at a US university, you will typically have access to specialized resources designed to help you settle in and make the most of your study abroad experience.

Many universities have international student offices where you can find help with anything from academics, English language support and career development, to culture and classroom etiquette.

Overall, international student services at most US universities are well established and staffed by friendly people who want to help you succeed!

8Discover a vast range of cultures
As one of the most culturally diverse countries in the world, studying abroad in the USA offers you an exciting opportunity to discover an array of cultures, learn different languages, and meet people from a variety of backgrounds.

US universities are very welcoming to people from all walks of life, and you’ll enjoy the open and friendly nature of people you meet on campus.

You’ll be able to immerse yourself in a new environment, and you’ll learn so much from the people around you and the experiences you have. All this will ultimately help you to develop as a person, and you’ll return home with a new perspective on the world around you.

Study abroad in the USA
So, now that you’ve read some of the great reasons why you should study abroad in the USA, you can find out more about how to study at a top US university.

Can international students work in the USA after graduation?

Yes! How long can international students stay in the US after graduation? It depends. Although your F-1 visa expires when you are no longer enrolled in college, there are ways new graduates can stay in the US to complete an internship or gain real-world work experience. An Optional Practical Training (OPT) extension or STEM OPT extension to your F-1 visa can allow you to stay in the US legally after you graduate.

You may have many questions like “how long I can stay in USA after graduation?” “Can a F-1 student get an international student visa after graduation?” and more. There are many rules that international students must follow while working in the US, and initially, these regulations may seem like a challenge. However, getting the right F-1 visa after graduation can help.

How to Stay in the US Legally After Graduation

One of the ways that students can stay in the US on an international student visa after graduation is with an OPT extension. The post-completion OPT allows recent graduates to work in the US for up to 12 months.

Many international students wonder how can I apply for OPT before graduation? Unlike Curricular Practical Training (CPT), which must be completed while you are still enrolled at your college or university, OPT can be completed before or after graduation. Just keep in mind you are only eligible for 12 months of practical training total. So, if you used all of your OPT or CPT while you were still enrolled, you will not be eligible for this type of F-1 visa extension. However, you become eligible again if you enroll in graduate school.

Students who are studying science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) may be eligible for a STEM OPT extension. This program allows you to stay and work in the US for 24 months after graduation.

Optional Practical Training (OPT)
OPT is an off-campus employment opportunity for F-1 students and these opportunities connect you with US organizations where you can gain hands-on experience in your major field of study.

You can begin the process for applying for OPT nine months after being enrolled, however, your employment cannot begin until you receive your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) specifically from USCIS and have been enrolled for at least a year. The good news is you do not need a job offer to apply for an EAD and your OPT employment can occur anywhere in the US.

Remember to apply early, as USCIS can take up to 90 days to process your application. Speak with your Designated School Official, or DSO, to learn more about your options for applying for OPT, how long can an international student stay in the US after graduation, and how you can gather the information you need for your application.

The most important document is form I-765 for employment authorization, which must be submitted along with your OPT application.

Before you apply for OPT, speak to your DSO to understand the typical OPT requirements:

• Your employment must be directly related to your major
• You must maintain lawful F-1 status
• You must apply for your OPT before completing all work needed for your degree
• You may work before or after the completion of your degree, or both
• You may stay and work in the US for up to 12 months after completing your coursework

OPT post-graduation requires that:

• OPT work must be full time (40 hours a week)
• All OPT must be completed within 14 months after completion of your degree
• Applications for post-completion OPT must be received by USCIS before the completion of your degree

Keep in mind that there are travel regulations governing F-1 students on OPT — if you leave the country after completing your degree, but before receiving your EAD and obtaining a job, you may not be readmitted into the US. This could impact your chance at securing your post-graduate work visa USA.

You can leave after you have received your EAD and secured a job, but make sure you have all the necessary documents with you once you return:

• Valid passport
• Valid EAD card
• Valid F-1 visa
• All your I-20 forms with page 3 endorsed for travel by your international student advisor within the past six months
• Letter of employment with your dates of employment and salary

If you are wondering “can international students work in USA after graduation?”, these OPT guidelines cover the process to get your work visa. If you apply for OPT after graduation, you can work and train in the US for up to 12 months. Students who have graduated with a STEM-related degree can also request an additional 24 months of OPT.

Here is a list of just a few STEM-related degrees that are valid for an OPT extension:

• Actuarial sciences
• Computer science applications
• Engineering
• Engineering technologies
• Life sciences
• Mathematics
• Military technologies
• Physical sciences

For the full list of STEM-designated degree programs, visit ICE.gov.

Students who receive an OPT extension may also choose to apply for an H-1B visa. So, if you have questions like “how long I can stay in USA after graduation?”, this visa may be the right choice for you.

H-1B Visa (Non-immigrant Visa)
You may be eligible for a H-1B visa, also called the Person in Specialty Occupation Visa, if you have been accepted to a specific job position that meets these requirements:

Possession of an advanced education degree (four-year BA degree or MA or PhD)

Correlation between your degree and work experience and your job duties

Approval of a labor condition attestation (LCA) from the Department of Labor before filing the H-1B petition with Immigration and Naturalization Services. (This document ensures that you will not be exploited by US employers and are paid the same salary and obtain the same benefits as your American counterparts.)

The H-1B status is granted for an initial period of three years. This is a great option for a post-graduate work visa USA because it can be extended for an additional three years. (Note that it cannot be extended beyond six years.) To qualify for this visa, your employer is required to initiate the visa process.

A few examples of H-1B job positions are:

• Architects
• Accountants
• Doctors
• IT specialists
• Lawyers
• Professors

If you want to develop a long-term career or build your future in the US, your job is just one part of a larger process. Acquiring a green card is the final goal for many international students who want to work in the US after graduation.

Green Card
A green card permits you to work anywhere in the US, receive financial benefits, and live in the US indefinitely. However, because green cards are in high demand, they may take many years to obtain.

As a student, your F-1 student status is only temporary, and you may wonder “can international students work in USA after graduation?” While the H-1B visa will only let you stay in the US for a limited number of years, a green card is your first step toward permanent residency.

Here are five ways a F-1 student can get a green card:

• Receive employer sponsorship — If you attain employment while studying, your employer can sponsor you by making an application for an EB-2 or EB-3 employment-based green card.
• Seek asylum — If returning to your home country is currently dangerous for your well-being, you can petition for asylum. You will need an immigration lawyer to help you with this process. USCIS goes over these petitions on a case-by-case basis and makes determinations individually.
• Receive sponsorship from a relative who owns a business — Your relative will have to prove that you are being hired based on your qualifications and not only because you are related. They will also have to show a good-faith effort to hire an American citizen and that none were up to the required standard.
• Participate in military services — If you have served two years in the military, this may help with your green card application.
• Receive parent or child sponsorship — If you have a parent or a child over 18 who is already a legal US citizen, they can sponsor your green card.

As a green card holder, you have several rights:

• Right to permanent residence
• Right to work
• Right to protection under the law
• Right to a driver’s license
  Right to bear arms
• Right to travel
• Right to request visas for immediate family members
• Right to Social Security benefits

Green card holders also have many responsibilities, including following the law, registering with Select Services, filing income taxes, supporting the government, carrying proof of residency wherever you go, informing DHS of any address changes, and maintaining health insurance. Meeting these responsibilities is very important to maintain your status as a green card holder.

How to Apply for an OPT Extension

You may be asking the question “can I apply for OPT after graduation?” and as mentioned before, the answer is yes. Let’s go over the steps and guidelines to follow in the OPT extension application process.

To start your application, your DSO must enter an OPT request in SEVIS. Then, you can fill out the OPT application and pay both the filing fee and biometric services fee. The total for both fees is $495.

Here are the steps to apply for an OPT extension:

• Ask your DSO to enter an OPT request in SEVIS
• Sign the form I-20 (provided by your DSO)
• Complete an Application for Employment Authorization
• Submit the form, OPT extension fee, and supporting documentation electronically or by mail
• Answer any request for evidence from USCIS by the listed deadline
• Receive your approval

You do not need a job or offer of employment to apply for OPT. However, when you do get a job, it must be directly related to your area of study.

How Long Does it Take for OPT Extension Approval?

Many students get their OPT approval in 80 to 120 days. In the past, you could expect your approval within 90 days, but increased demand has led to longer processing times. From 2016 to 2018, the number of international students working in the US after graduation has increased by 400%. More than half of these new hires were working in STEM fields.

Can I Apply for OPT Extension After OPT Expires?

A 24-month STEM OPT extension is an add-on to your post-completion OPT, not a replacement for it. Do not wait until your OPT expires. File for an extension no more than 90 days before the end of your regular OPT period.

Only students who hold a bachelor’s degree or higher in an eligible STEM field can apply for a STEM OPT extension. Eligible fields include:

• Biological sciences
• Engineering
• Mathematics
• Physical sciences

See a list of all related fields on the STEM-designated degree program list.

You must also have an employer willing to sponsor your request. This employer must be enrolled in the USCIS E-Verify employment eligibility verification program. Your employer must provide you with at least 20 hours of work per week. They must also provide learning objectives and formal training to help you meet those goals.

If you did not study a STEM-related field, you must leave the US by the end of the OPT extension grace period of 60 days.

B-1/B-2 Visa

When considering can international students work in USA after graduation, it is important to look at all your options. The B-1/B-2 visa is a temporary, non-immigrant visa that allows the holder to travel to the US for either business or tourism. Almost all reasons for temporary travel are covered by these visas, except for student travel which is categorized under F-1 visas.

The B-1 visa covers business trips and the B-2 visa covers tourism such as vacations and visiting family. Reasons for traveling under B visas include:

• Conducting business such as meetings, negotiations, etc.
• Attending a conference relevant to your profession, education, or current business venture
• Settling real estate transactions
• Visiting family
• Taking a vacation
• Attending events such as concerts, classes, etc., as long as there is no payment or credit card given to the visa holder

A B-1/B-2 visa holder cannot be granted permanent residence, but can apply for a green card while holding this visa and it potentially offers another way for international student work in US after graduation. The maximum amount of time issued for this visa is 180 days and allows multiple entries into the US. To be eligible for this visa, you must prove that your travel is temporary and that you can self-fund the cost of the whole trip.

The process of applying for and obtaining a visa can be long and challenging, but it is important to remember that you must maintain your status once you have obtained a visa. If you are unable to maintain your visa status, you may be required to return to your home country, which could disrupt your plans for the future.

Best Practices for Maintaining Your US Visa Status
The two most important aspects to keep in mind to maintain your post-graduate work visa USA status is to research your conditions thoroughly and be proactive. Plan ahead for how you plan to obtain important documents so you can meet all OPT deadlines. Fill out all forms thoroughly and respond promptly to any requests for additional information to prevent delays. Keep your information up to date and be sure to report to your DSO any changes to your address, contact information, and employment — this information must stay up to date in SEVIS.

Remember that OPT rules can change. Staying updated on the latest federal regulations by visiting DHS.gov or USCIS.gov can help you follow visa guidelines and consistently maintain your visa status. If there are any parts of the visa process you are not sure of, your DSO can also help answer any questions you may have.

Here is a look at some of your options for maintaining your visa status as an international student.

Start the Process Early
It is important to be proactive in maintaining your visa status, as there is limited time to apply for extensions if this becomes necessary. Getting approval from USCIS and other immigration offices can take up to 90 days; keep this in mind as you prepare for life after graduation and make sure you submit your applications well ahead of time so you can remain in the US after graduating.

Additionally, if you are unable to maintain your visa status and need to return to your home country, this can impact your ability to obtain a visa in the future.

Attend Career Fairs to Find Work
Many international students wonder “can international students work in USA after graduation?” With the proper visa, as we’ve discussed, the answer is yes: Studying in the US can give you access to many opportunities to find international student work in US after graduation.

As an international student, you may not know how to get started and who you should connect with to find a job or internship. Career fairs provide a variety of work opportunities and give you the chance to network with professionals from various backgrounds. For an international student, this experience offers insights on how to bridge cultural gaps and fit into the organizational culture of places where you would like to work.

Career fair seminars and lectures showcase new skills, or give you the chance to hone ones you already have. You can brush up your resume, improve your interview skills, optimize online job searches, and more! And if you make the right impression at a career fair, you may land an interview on the spot, something that could take days or months through more traditional job application methods.

Use Networking to Find Professional Mentors
Building and expanding your professional network is a great way to connect with industry experts who can help you find job opportunities in the US. This process can take time, but will help you build a strong foundation for your career as you work toward completing your degree.

There are many ways to get in touch with the right people to start your networking journey. During your time at university, you will have the chance to network with professionals in your field, but also with your fellow students and faculty members.

Here are some steps you can take at university to get started building your professional network:

Reach out to academic advisors — Academic advisors can help you recognize and achieve your educational goals, and are experienced in assisting international students like you. They can guide you to the right career fairs for the type of career you want to pursue, and can even connect you with companies who are currently hiring students.

Join organizations and clubs — Many student-run organizations and clubs in the US regularly host events and activities in their field of interest. This can help you connect with other like-minded individuals and allows you to make new friends who may know of job opportunities.

Speak to others in the alumni network — Many schools have large and thriving alumni networks. They volunteer their time and expertise to support students looking to build their careers. Alumni can provide career-related information, behind-the-scenes insights about specific careers, feedback on your resume, help to expand your network, and insider tips about jobs or internships.

Join national professional affiliations — National professional affiliations (for example, the National Association of Scholars) are groups that focus on supporting and connecting people with the same career interests. Joining an affiliation group for a field you want to work in can be a great opportunity to discover new job opportunities while also developing your skills as a professional.

Volunteer — Volunteering teaches valuable skills and enables you to connect with top professionals. Potential organizations include the Peace Corps, Habitat for Humanity, American Red Cross, the Food Bank, and more, as well as local community groups.

Before you reach your final year of university, set a goal of working with two to three mentors (both from school and outside organizations) who will guide you in your professional career. Mentors are essential to the job search process for international students; maintaining and nurturing these relationships will prove useful to you as you apply for your work extension visa in the US.

If you are not sure where to begin, reach out to a Shorelight advisor! Your advisor can support you as you prepare for a career in the US by helping you develop a career action plan, providing resume tips, and guiding you toward career development programs.

The process of securing a job placement and extending your stay in the US can be demanding and time consuming, but may also allow you to pursue a long-term career in the US. Plan ahead, keep in touch with your mentors, and speak to your advisors to stay on track with your personal and professional goals.

There are three intakes in USA universities: ‘Fall’ which usually goes from August to December, ‘Spring’ which lasts from January to May and ‘Summer’ intake which lasts from May to August.

Deadlines: It is suggested to apply early as the application deadlines for top universities are generally 10 months before admissions which are between mid-October and early November. Additionally, for other universities, the deadlines are in January and March.

Study Level & Entry Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree
• A high school diploma or equivalent
• Minimum GPA 2.50 to 3.60 (or equivalent)
• Minimum TOEFL 61 to 100 (or equivalent)

Undergraduate Pathway Programs

• A high school diploma or equivalent
• Minimum GPA 2.00 to 3.00 (or equivalent)
• Minimum TOEFL 55 to 79 (or equivalent)

Master’s degree

• A bachelor’s degree or equivalent
• Minimum GPA 2.50 to 3.50 (or equivalent)
• Minimum TOEFL 78 to 100 (or equivalent)

Graduate Pathway Programs

• A bachelor’s degree or equivalent
• Minimum GPA 2.50 to 3.40 (or equivalent)
• Minimum TOEFL 55 to 99 (or equivalent)

UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT APPLICATIONS
While every US university has its own admissions criteria, there are several common requirements they share. In general, American universities require the following from international student applicants:

• Transcript
• Standardized test scores
• SAT or ACT
• English proficiency test scores (TOEFL, IELTS, iTEP, PTE Academic)
• Essay
• Recommendations
• Copy of your valid passport

Some colleges and universities may also require proof of financing for international students. (You can find more details on college application requirements by reading Shorelight’s college application checklist for international students.) Additionally, some colleges may require an interview, which you can do with staff or alumni living abroad.

Keep in mind that college application deadlines are important. For more selective colleges that admit students through early action or early decision, you may need to submit your applications by November or December.

If you are considering a Shorelight partner university in the US, there is a separate online application you can use to apply directly to one or more colleges or universities, and many do not require foreign students to submit an essay or SAT/ACT scores.

​​GRADUATE STUDENT APPLICATIONS
Application requirements for international students applying to graduate programs are similar to undergraduate programs, with a few important differences. Here is what you may need:

• ​​Academic transcripts from your bachelor’s degree studies
• ​​Test scores
• GRE/GMAT
• TOEFL, IELTS, iTEP, or PTE Academic
• Statement of purpose
• Research proposal
• Recommendations from professors
• Copy of your valid passport

Proof of finances — unless you apply separately for assistantships or fellowships, you will need to show funding to cover the full cost of your education (subtracting any available scholarships)

Applicants may also be required to do either an on-campus or video interview (via videoconferencing or similar) with the program’s admissions committee.

All US colleges and universities accept graduate applications online, typically through their own websites. There is no Common App for graduate applicants. If you are considering any Shorelight universities for either master’s or doctorate degrees, there is a streamlined online application process that may not require a GRE, GMAT, or Statement of Purpose to be considered for admission.

English Language Proficiency

Most universities in the USA require applicants to take English language proficiency tests such as the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS).

Prerequisite Tests

For undergraduate courses in USA, a Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) is required whereas a Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or GMAT is required for postgraduate study level programs.

Application Material

Transcripts
Resume or CV
Statement of Purpose, Personal Statement, Essay(s)
Letter(s) of Recommendation
Additionally, The Common Application is a centralised admission process for more than 800 US universities.

Apart from the Standardized tests, eligibility criteria for MS in USA include 16 years of previous education (So qualification of 10+2+ four year degree programs; 10+3 year diploma + 3-year degree; 10+2+ 3 year degree (Indian B.Sc) + 2-year masters (M.Sc) are eligible)

For MBA in USA, a four-year Bachelor’s degree with a minimum of two to three years of work experience is required along with the standardised test scores. A PhD in USA for Indian students requires TOEFL/IELTS, C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency along with an exceptional research proposal.

F1 Visa Requirements

Here are the documents required to apply for an F1 Visa:

• Your valid passport.
• Form DS-160 for non-immigrant visa applications.
• Two photographs meeting the US Visa Photo Requirements.
• Proof of paid F1 visa fee.
• Form I-20. Your Form I-20 states the amount of funds you need to finance your education and living in the US. You must submit documents which prove you have that amount readily available. This can be done by submitting various documents, such as:
  • Bank statements for the last 3 years
  • Tax records for the last 3 years
  • Pay stubs of previous employment
• If you have received a scholarship, you also need to submit proof of it
  Paying a semester’s or a year’s worth of tuition is also a good idea, but not mandatory
• If you are supported or sponsored by someone else in the US, you will need to submit Form I-134, Affidavit of Support and bank statements for the last three years of that person.
• If you are funding your US education through a loan, you must also show proof of the approved loan

Documents that prove your previous education and current qualifications:

• Original transcripts
• Standardized test scores (TOEFL, IELTS, GRE, GMAT, etc.)
• Acceptance letters from the educational institution which accepted you
• Previous degree diplomas

Get your admissions documents from the SEVP institution
After you apply and are accepted into the school you want to attend, they will have to complete some procedures so that you can apply for the F1 visa. The most important document you need to have is Form I-20, Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status. Without this form, you will not be able to apply for an F1 student visa and attend your interview.

Apply online through the DS-160 form
After you get your Form I-20, you can start the usual application process. This includes filing the DS-160 form online with the necessary information about your visa status.

Pay the application fee
The application fee for the student visa is $160. You must pay this fee and get the receipt, which you will need later for your interview documents. You might have to pay additional fees based on your country of origin and the US Embassy you are applying from.

Pay the SEVIS I-901 fee
When you are admitted by the SEVP institution, your school immediately registers you in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS). To have full registration, there is a SEVIS I-901 fee. For the F1 visa, this fee is $200.

Schedule your F1 visa interview
After filing the DS-160 form and paying the fees, you will need to schedule your interview. The interview is a mandatory step before you get your student visa. Try to schedule it as early as possible, since there might be delays due to the heavy workload of the US Embassy. When you schedule it, you will receive an interview appointment letter which you will need later on in the application process.

Submit the file with the required documents
Before you go to attend your interview, you should prepare your file with the required documents for students.

Attend the student visa interview
When you go to attend the student visa interview, the questions will mostly revolve around your reasons for going to the US and the institution you are going to. The interviewer will try to assess whether you intend to return to your home country after you complete your degree.

F1 Visa Validity
When your visa is approved, it might be for the full time that you will be in school in the US, or for less. If your study program takes 1 year to graduate, the Embassy will most likely give you a visa that is valid for 1 year If your degree program is 2 years and you only get the visa for 1 year, you should then later apply to renew it. In this case, it is the best option to renew the F1 visa.

The validity of your F1 visa is for as long as it is stated on your I-20 form and I-94 form which is given to you when you enter the US.

If you are renewing your visa you should follow the same procedure. You might be able to waive the interview on the reason that you have already done it once and your intent is to continue your education for the remaining years to get your degree.

If your visa is approved, you are allowed to depart for the US 30 days before your program begins. You cannot enter the US any earlier than that.

F1 Visa Processing Time
In most cases, you will get the response on this visa immediately after the interview. At the end of the visa interview, the interviewer might congratulate you for getting the visa or will provide you with a document letting you know the reason for denial. This is because the processing of this type of visa actually happens before your interview. The interview is the last step for the US Embassy to assess whether they should issue the visa.

There are, however, cases where the response and processing of the F1 visa takes a few days, so you should be patient if that happens.

When Should I Apply for the F1 Visa?
After you are admitted into the institution of your choice, you can apply for the visa 120 days before you are scheduled to start your program. You cannot apply any earlier, but applying later might cause you a delay due to processing times. So as soon as the 120-day countdown begins, make sure you submit your application.

Can I Stay Longer Than My Visa Allows?
After your visa expires, you have a 60 day grace period to prepare for your departure to your home country. If your visa doesn’t cover the whole time that you will be in school in the US, you will have to apply for renewal or extensions. The extensions are approved only if you can prove you will be completing your degree in the US and you intend to return as soon as it is over.

Can I Work as an International Student in the United States?
You may work as an F1 student but only for short periods of time since your visa is a student and not a work visa. You are allowed to work part-time on campus while school is in session and full time during breaks. If you want to work outside of campus, you have two options.

If you, for example, find a job that requires a different type of visa, other than F1, then you are also eligible to change status. You just need to work through the instructions of US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and your employer or another petitioner.

Can F1 Students Apply for Permanent Residence?
Even though you have proved that you have strong ties to your home country, if you want to apply for a Green Card, you are allowed to do so on an F1 visa. It is a complicated procedure, though. You must either self-petition as a person with extraordinary abilities, get married in the US or prove that you will invest $500,000 in the US economy.

If these are not feasible for you, but you still want to remain in the US, the easiest way is to change status into a different type of visa such as an H-1B visa and have your employer sponsor you.

Travel Outside of the US
F1 visa students quite often have to travel abroad. They travel during university breaks or in case of emergencies. The travel can be to their own home countries or to other countries.

If you are an F1 visa student who wants to travel abroad, before you plan and book their travel you must follow some instructions. The instructions are to ensure that they can enter the United States again.

Bringing Family Members to the United States
In case you have dependents, such as a spouse or unmarried children under 21 years old, they are allowed to come to the US too. This can be done with an F2 visa.

The F2 visa has no cap and dependents should just fulfill the requirements and complete the application procedures to get the visa. To be eligible for an F-2 visa, you must fulfill the following criteria:

Be the spouse of an approved F1 visa holder, or
Be the unmarried child under 21 years old of an approved F1 visa holder
Have the financial means to support the family during your stay in the US

International students in the U.S. during their first year of studies can engage to work at the campus of their university or institution for a maximum of 20 hours per week and 40 hours per week during vacation and breaks.

There are no annual visa limitations for the F-1, so as long as you can be accepted into a study program, you can apply for the F-1 Student Visa.

Any source of funding is considered acceptable. It can be personal funds, family funds, public scholarships or industry funding. The F-1 Visa allows you the flexibility to travel in and out of the U.S. throughout your study program. F-1 visas are provided for a “Duration of Status,” which is valid for the entire length of your study program, generally, it’s 60 months.

Allowed to work during studies, although you must apply for work authorization if you wish to be employed off-campus.

Allowed to work after studies for up to 12 -24 months (depending on the field of study).

The student’s family, including their spouse and children under the age of 21 can come to the U.S. on an F-2 visa. The F-2 dependents will have the same period of authorized stay as the F-1 Student.

Although family members cannot work in F-2 status, spouses and children are able to study at SEVP-certified schools in the U.S. as long as they are not enrolled full-time.
Students as young as six years old can be issued an F-1 visa.

F-1 Student Visa Work Permit

F-1 students who wish to work in the U.S. during their first year of studies can engage to work at the campus of their university or institution for a maximum of 20 hours per week and 40 hours per week during vacation and breaks.
Beginning in the second year, F-1 students have three options for working off-campus:

• -Curricular Practical Training (CPT)
• -Optional Practical Training (OPT)
• -Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Optional Practical Training 24-Month (STEM) Extension (OPT)

Curricular Practical Training (CPT)

CPT allows international students to gain employment training and work in paid internships to further their studies. Students have a chance to work full-time (more than 20 hours per week) or part-time (20 hours or less per week), earning money while also gaining work experience in their field of study. It is important for the international F-1 Student to remember that if you complete 12 months of CPT while studying in the U.S., you will not be eligible to apply for or obtain OPT later.

Optional Practical Training (OPT)

OPT is temporary employment that is directly related to your major or area of study. F-1 Students can apply to receive up to 12 months of OPT before completing their academic studies, called pre-completion OPT, and/or after graduation, for post-completion OPT. Any pre-completion OPT will count against the 12 months of post-completion OPT.
STEM OPT Extension

If you have earned a degree in certain science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) fields, then you are eligible to apply for a 24-month extension of your OPT. To qualify, the F-1 Student must:

• -Have received a STEM degree included in the STEM Program List,
• -Working with an employer who participates in E-Verify, and
• -The initial OPT was based on your STEM degree program.

Most Common Reasons for Student Visa Rejection

As part of your student visa application, you will need to testify to and prove a number of things in your F-1 student visa interview, including how you will finance your education, your ties to your home country, your intent to return, your specific degree program, and why you chose your university.

There are a number of reasons for a visa to be denied. Your visa denial letter will state the reason, though it may not be overly specific, depending on the category. While Homeland Security does not release specific numbers, it is estimated that the USA visa rejection rate in 2018 was around 35%, though the percentage varies significantly by country.

Now let’s get into the most common F-1 visa rejection reasons:

Lack of Finances
If you cannot show the consular officer that you have the financial means to pay for your education in the US, you will not receive a student visa to study in the USA.

“Students are required to provide the financial documents to prove they have enough finance support for their study and living [expenses],” says Cheng. “The financial documents need to cover at least one year of expenses — including tuition, insurance, dining, living, books, and miscellaneous.”

Lack of proof of sufficient finances is one of the top F-1 visa rejection reasons. You must also be able to show you have access to funds for your entire program. In the US, bachelor programs tend to take four years and master’s programs tend to take two years.

“When students and their parents are preparing the financial statements, they also need to prepare the amount of total expense for the entire program, not only for one year, and show they have the means,” says Cheng. “If they have any siblings, they need to be very clear about how much money their siblings need as well.”

No Intent to Return Home
One of the biggest visa denial reasons is the failure to demonstrate your ties to your home country and your “intent to return home.” The consul officer conducting your visa interview will ask you about any family in the US, social circles and property in your home country, and your career plans after graduation.

“Some students can’t provide a clear answer when the visa officer asks their plans after graduation,” says Cheng. “This may cause the visa officer to doubt your intent to stay in the US. You need to explain clearly what kind of job you plan to do after graduation.”

Cheng says to have this answer fully prepared, especially if you are from a high-risk country or have relatives in the US. In your answer, you may wish to say the type of positions you plan to apply to or even name specific companies you want to work for. If you have plans to be engaged or married, or buy a home upon graduation, you should mention that as well.

False, Incorrect, or Missing Documents
Documentation that doesn’t match your original DS-160 application form or the university’s I-20 will be an immediate red flag for visa officers.

“Be sure to make the school information and academic program information exactly same as it shows on the I-20,” says Cheng. “Make sure to fill in all the experiences. The DS-160 needs the applicant to provide all the study and work experience, usually for graduate students.”

Cheng says to take note of all the documents and copies you need for the visa interview. For example, only bringing a bank statement, and not all pertinent financial statements, including parents’ salary certification, loan letters, and proof of assets could result in your visa being denied for lack of finances.

Did any information on your I-20 change after submitting your application and scheduling your visa interview? Send an update to the embassy and submit a new I-20. And of course, always pay the SEVIS (I-901) fee and bring your proof of payment to the interview.

Academic Program
Another of the most common visa denial reasons is choice of academic program, subpar academic performance for that field, or failure to convince the consular office of your interest in and knowledge of the program.

“The education system in the US is so different [from other countries], and many students don’t have a solid understanding regarding the programs and universities. A lot of graduate students are rejected because they can’t answer the academic-related questions well,” says Cheng. Choice of academic program can also be a flag for students from China, Russia, and other high-risk countries with a history of material patent issues.

Practice your answer in English — why you chose your area of study (also known as a major in the US) and why you want to study in the USA at your specific university. Is the faculty renowned? Does it have high program rankings for that major? Does this college strengthen your career outcomes once you return to your home country? Write down your response and know it by heart.

Late Application
Your visa status is tied to your program start date. There is no set date by which your visa application has to be submitted, but you should allow up to two months for your application to be reviewed and your visa interview to be scheduled. Wait times at consulates and embassy vary from country to country, and COVID has increased wait times.

You are putting your F-1 approval at risk if the issuing consular believes you will not be able to coordinate travel and start your program on time.

Country of Origin
While your country of residence is not cause for getting your F-1 visa denied per se, certain areas of your application may be reviewed more intently than others depending on your country of origin. Visa risks vary by country, and students from certain countries will be asked different questions during their visa interview.

“For example, students from China are mostly asked [about] their academic information, but students from India are mostly questioned about the financial situation since there is a huge number of Indian students applying for education loans,” says Cheng. Other examples might be if your country of origin is not as economically developed or is less politically stable.

An education counselor trained in US visa applications can help you prepare for this question based on your country of origin, says Cheng.

Visa Interview Tips
Students from different countries with different programs of study will be asked different questions in their visa interviews, so there is no way of saying for sure what you will be asked. As we explain in our visa interview prep guide, you can expect the visa officer to cover these main topics:

• Study plans
• University choice
• Academic capability
• Financial status
• Post-graduation plans

Do your research and prepare your answers. We strongly recommend practicing your answers to the most commonly asked questions with a friend or family member. Also be sure all information in the application matches what you say in the interview.

Questions you might be asked include:

• Why do you want to study in the US?
• Have you been to the United States before?
• How many different universities did you apply to?
• What are your test scores?
• How are you planning to finance your education?
• Do you have a job or career in mind post-graduation?

Don’t memorize your answers — just rehearse them to cover main talking points, while still coming off as genuine. Practicing can also help with any nerves. Always show up on time, dress professionally, have your required documents prepared, and respond to all questions clearly and succinctly.

Can You Appeal a Visa Rejection?

One of the first questions international students ask us is if you can you appeal a US visa denial. The short and unfortunate answer is no — there is no such thing as a US visa rejection appeal.

“If the US consulate denies the F-1 visa application, that’s final. There is no appeal process,” says Cheng. But there is good news regarding what to do if your student visa is denied: you can reapply.

How to Get F-1 Visa After Rejection

After all your hard work in collecting information for your visa application and preparing for your visa interview, you will no doubt be disappointed to receive a visa rejection notice. The upside is you have been through this process and know what is involved, so it should go a bit more smoothly.

You can reapply three business days after the receipt of the denial, though we do not always advise that you reapply immediately. Often the reason your visa was denied cannot be resolved in three days.

Prepare Self Before Applying

“Students should always be clear about the reason they got a rejection,” says Cheng. Go over the paperwork with a parent, hire an education advisor, correct any errors, and gather any further documentation before starting a new application.

Your rejection notice will tell you the main category for the denial, but may not say specifically what you said in your written application or visa interview to make the consul officer question your potential risk.

Cheng points to the “214b” denial, which is a reference to section 214b of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA).

“This means the applicants didn’t sufficiently demonstrate to the visa officer that they qualify for the nonimmigrant visa category, but doesn’t indicate it’s because the applicant has a relative in the US, or didn’t provide a clear career plan after graduation,” he explains. “It’s important that student review everything that happened in the visa interview, ideally with an expert.”

“Once the specific visa rejection reason is figured out, students can prepare accordingly,” continues Cheng. “If it was rejected due to the lack of finances, the student needs to prepare additional financial documents that meet the financial requirement of study and explain the entire story in a concise and logical way. As long as everything is cleared and re-prepared, you have another chance!”

Reapplying for an F-1 Student Visa

The process for reapplying for an F-1 visa after rejection involves all the same steps and costs as your first application. This is where applying early the first time around will increase your chances of being approved in time. Remember the program dates on your DS-160 and I-20 have to match, and you need to allow ample time for review and interview scheduling.

There’s no way of saying for sure your second visa application will be accepted — it may just be that you do have the right finances, and you will have to reapply in another six months or a year when you have sufficient funds.

What are the chances of getting a US visa after rejection? Your chance of being approved for an F-1 student visa after rejection depends on a number of factors — visa denial reason, your major, country of origin, and program start date, to name a few. When it comes to likelihood of getting F-1 status approved after a denial, Brian Meagher, vice president of data science and strategy at Shorelight, suggests you set your expectations.

“Through analyzing the Shorelight data over the last seven years and tens of thousands of student visa appointments, we’ve seen that a student’s chance of getting a visa after already having a denial is significantly reduced,” says Meagher. “Which is to say that if a student comes from a country where 70% of students get approved, then a denial on a student’s record would reduce his/her chances down to below 20% likelihood.”

Cheng says to stay positive: “Always have hope and always be well prepared,” says Cheng. “There is always a way out, even though denials do happen, talk with your advisor, make progress, and reapply to a later [semester] if need be. Things can turn to the good side!”

Intent to Remain in the U.S. after Finishing School
Have you been denied your F1 visa? If so, consider contacting F1 Visa Advisors, Inc. for personalized advice.
This is the most common reason why a visa officer may reject your F1 visa application, and the most important factor they look at during the interview. If the visa officer has the slightest thought that you have no intention of returning to your home country, that is grounds for rejection. Be prepared to express your family ties, immovable property, or businesses that you have in your home country. Do your best in your second interview to clarify that you will return to your country after graduation.

Lack of Proper Financial Support
Your financial situation may have played a part in your rejection in your first application. Having a lack of proper financial support would mean you would need a job to fund your studies, which contradicts the reason for having a student visa. The visa officer wants to make sure that you have the funds to sponsor your education and living expenses during your stay in the country. When applying for your visa the second time, make sure you show you have the necessary funds to become an international student. There are multiple ways you can fill the financial aid gap such as scholarships and loans.

Suspicious University, Degree, and Goals
It is important that your academic credentials are genuine and do not lead the visa officer to become suspicious. The visa officer looking over your application may question the credibility of the university, program, or degree that you have applied for. They want you to demonstrate your credibility as a student. Having low test scores and low-level English skills often calls for immediate rejection. Also, during your interview you will be asked questions regarding your academic plans. Failing to explain why you chose your course and university is strong grounds for rejection. Make sure you explain your goals as clear as possible to the consular officer and that they are in congruence with your previous studies or work.

Poor Interview
The interview is a large part of the application process. There is a lot at stake which means your visa interview should be taken seriously. If your interview was the reason you were rejected, you will want to perform a self-evaluation and make a list of ways you can improve your interview skills. For example, perhaps you need to practice making eye contact and being able to answer questions in well thought-out sentences on the spot.

Punctuality is crucial to Americans, so be on time
Dress professionally
Hold yourself with confidence
Be honest
In general, visa officers expect candidates to be well-mannered and self-assured, so any inkling of nervousness or lack of confidence could mean another rejection of your F1 student visa. Identify your weak spots and work on them prior to your next interview.

Lack of or False Information
It is crucial that all your information is current and correct. A lack of documentation shows that you do not take the process seriously and that you may have something to hide. Therefore, make sure you have all the necessary documents asked for by the consulate or embassy. These documents also must contain real and honest information. The last thing you want to do is lie to the visa officer. False information or documents would call for immediate rejection. Be sure that all your information is correct and consistent.

How to Re-apply for an F1 Visa
If you want to apply for an F1 visa again then a new application must be created, the visa fee must be paid again, and another interview needs to be scheduled. There is generally no rule for when you should reapply for your student visa. However, after your initial rejection it is best that you spend time understanding why you were denied and then take the necessary steps to solve this problem. You can re-apply when you have new information that can convince the officer that you are a worthy candidate for the visa. If you schedule your second visa interview too soon and your situation has not changed since your denial, you risk receiving another denial.

If your student visa was denied due to a lack of important documentation or information needed by the visa officer, your application will be reviewed again. You will be given a letter that contains a list of the documents that are needed to continue with the process. Follow the directions of the letter and turn in the necessary documents. If your visa was denied due to administrative processing, then there are no other actions to be done except for periodically checking your application status.

Preparation and Tips for Reapplying for Your F1 Visa
The key to success will be understanding why your F1 visa was denied and correcting the problem. However, to help ensure the rest of your application process goes as smooth as possible, here are some additional ways to strengthen your application:

Be clear of your intention to return to your home country after the duration of your time in school in the country.

The interview process will be done in English, so it would benefit you to practice and sharpen your English skills. Do not prepare a speech but be ready to have a conversation.
Study the program you are going into and be able to explain how it pertains to your future career.

Bring all documents related to you coming to the US. Providing scholarship letters, admission letters, all financial documentation, and letters of recommendation will increase your chances of approval. The more information you have, the better the chances that your student visa will not be denied a second time.

Be concise and have an enthusiastic attitude during the interview. Visa officers are usually under time pressure so it would be beneficial for you to have answers that are short and to the point.

Get personalized advice and guidance from an immigration attorney.

How Many Times Can You Apply for an F1 Visa?
There are no restrictions to the number of times you can reapply for a visa, so candidates can apply as many times as they deem necessary. However, those who reapply should provide the visa officer with new information and solutions to problems seen in the previous application. Reapplying with no new information would be a waste and a sure way to be refused again for the same reasons.

Additional Things to Consider
Some students may face delays due to “administrative processing,” which occurs when your name is similar to another candidate. The consulate will have to contact other government agencies about your status and background. This may also occur when your field of study requires sensitive or important technology. Some visa officers may require letters from academic advisers explaining what you are studying or researching and what technology you will be working with. You may be asked to talk about past visits to the United States or any prior visa statuses held by family members. Also, different countries have different requirements for obtaining visas. You should research your country’s requirements on their U.S. Consulate’s website.

You will have to appear one face-to-face interview with consular officer for US visa. So the following mantras will let you win the heart of consular officer and convince him/her to give you your ticket to U.S. the student visa.

Demonstrate ties to your home country
Because you are going on a temporary visa, demonstrate to the consular officer that you have strong ties to your country of residence and show that you intend to depart the United States after your temporary stay.

Be concise, be relevant
Because visa interviews are short, do your best to explain why you want to study in the United States and how you plan to support yourself while in school.

Know your program and university selection well
If you can’t sufficiently convince the consular officer why you have chosen a certain field of study in particular university/college, then the chances are you are looked upon as an intended immigrant rather than a prospective student. So be prepared to answer the questions related to your course of study. You should also be able to explain how studying in the United States relates to your future professional career in your home country.

Documentation
Bring all required genuine documents and supplements. If the documents are written (like recommendation letters) make sure they are short and present a clear picture of you.

Finance
Understand that you are going oversees for study and be ready to show adequate funds to support your living in that country. Do not base your plans to pay for colleges on the work opportunities that might be available to an international student. You will not be allowed to work full time and income will not be sufficient.

English language skill
You might be taking the TOEFL or taking the IELTS score report to the interview. But what matters is how persuasively you can talk and convince the officers of your real intention of studying in the U.S. The skill is also assessed because strong command over English is important to succeed as a student in U.S.

Be confident, be positive
Being confident and maintaining a positive attitude always helps. Do not engage the consular officer in an argument. If you are denied a student visa, ask the officer for a list of documents he or she would suggest you bring in order to overcome the refusal, and try to get the reason you were denied in writing.

1. Speak for Yourself

The consular officer wants to interview you, not your family or your friends. Copying someone else answers or
words will not help you much because officer may have heard same words and sentences many time that week
already. A positive impression is created if you are prepared to speak on your own. Speak about your own
education and experiences and research that you have done to get Language score admissions and i20

2. Know the Program and How It Fits Your Career Plans

If you are not able to explain the reasons why you will study in a particular program in
the United States, you may not succeed in convincing the consular officer that you are
indeed planning to study, rather than to work or stay in the United States. You should
also be able to explain how studying in the United States relates to your career goals
and employment prospects when you return home. If you will be a graduate student in
the United States and have a research focus, be prepared to talk about your research
plans. Consular officials may want a letter from your supervising professor or faculty
member that explains your intended research goals.

3. Be Brief and Maintain a Positive Attitude

Because of the large number of applications they receive, all consular officers are
under considerable time pressure to conduct a quick interview. They must make a
decision, for the most part, on the impressions they form during the first minute of the
interview. What you say first and the first impression you create are critical to your
success. Keep your answers to the officer’s questions short and to the point, responding
precisely to the consular officer’s questions and statements. That does not mean you answer in single words like YES or NO please explain what are you talking about.

Do not have an argument with the officer.

If you are denied a student visa, ask the officer for a list of documents
he or she would suggest you bring to overcome the denial and try to get the reason
you were denied in writing. For more information about responding to a visa denial, visit the U.S. Department of State’s web page explaining visa denials.

4. Supporting Documentation (Know Your Specific Situation or History)

It should be immediately clear to the consular officer what written documents you are
presenting and what they mean. Lengthy written explanations cannot be quickly read
or evaluated. Remember that you will have 2-3 minutes of interview time, if you are
lucky. Supporting documentation will depend on your particular situation, so it is best to
review the consulate’s website. However, there are a few supporting documents which
are common among all students such as financial documentation, admission letter(s),
and scholarship letters. Students should be prepared to take all documentation proving
their financial ability to stay in the United States such as scholarships, assistantships or
other letters issued by the school, sponsor or other organization. The financial information indicated on your Form I-20 or DS-2019 should match the evidence provided to the consular officer.

5. Employment

Your main purpose in coming to the United States should be to study, rather than for the
chance to work before or after graduation. While many students work on- or off-
campus during their studies, such employment is incidental (secondary/optional) to
their main purpose of completing their U.S. education. You must be able to clearly
explain your plan to return home at the end of your program. If your spouse or children
are also applying for an accompanying F-2 visa, be aware that F-2 dependents
cannot, under any circumstances, be employed in the United States. If asked, be
prepared to address what your spouse intends to do with his or her time while in the
United States. Volunteering in the community and attending school part-time are
permitted activities for F-2 dependents.

6. Dependents Remaining at Home

If your spouse and children are remaining behind in your country, be prepared to
explain how they will support themselves in your absence. This can be especially difficult
to explain if you are the primary source of income for your family. If the consular officer
gains the impression that you intend to support your family with money you may earn
during your studies in the United States, your student visa application will almost
certainly be denied.

IMPORTANT POINTS TO REMEBER
❖ Dress Formally; Groom Nicely;
❖ Approach Positively with a big smile show confidence
❖ Wish VO and ask they how are the doing and how is their day so far
❖ Sanitize and clean hands Before touching Fingerprinting machines and handing over documents
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and do not look / stare at other faces
❖ Do not show blank face for any questions that you do not know , Ask VO politely to repeat it again and
convey the answer on full sentence
❖ Do not use COVID as an excuse and do not use any NEGATIVE WORDS
❖ Do not answer in single sentences like YES or NO, answer in full sentence explaining why you choose the
answer as yes/no
❖ Do not use WIKIPEDIA facts as your answers for Why this university and why this course

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For its world-ranked universities, high quality education, academic excellence and great multicultural environment, Study UK is very popular among international students.
About UK

The UK is short for The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. Situated in European continent, it is a sovereign state but is made up of 4 countries: England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. The largest country of the UK is England. The smallest country is Northern Ireland.

UK as a higher education destination

As per the Home Office Register of licensed student sponsors (updated in September 2022), there are 1523 Higher Education Institution (HEI), Independent School, Publicly Funded College, Overseas Higher Education Institution, Embedded college offering pathway courses and Private Provider that can sponsor international students via either student or child student route to study in the UK.

Higher Education Institution (HEI) normally refers to universities. There are 165 Higher Education Institution (HEI) in the UK as per the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA).

In 2019–20, there were 538,615 international students studying at UK higher Education Institutions (HESA). In 2020, UK ranked 3rd with 22.3% share of worldwide international students at higher education (Statista). UK’s share is anticipated to increase significantly in 2021 and beyond.

Top reasons and benefits of study UK

1. UK higher education brand – top in the world

4 of the world’s top 10 and 17 of the world’s top 100 universities are in the UK (The QS World University Rankings, 2022).
The 2021 Best Countries for Education ranking based on a perception-based global survey, which used a compilation of scores from three equally weighted country attributes: having a well-developed public education system, whether people would consider attending university there and if that country provides a top quality education, UK ranked Number 2 next to USA (U.S. News).
Among countries that consistently deliver the best higher education experience and boast the strongest higher education systems, UK ranked 2nd among the top 50 countries worldwide (QS Higher Education System Strength Rankings).
The latest National Student Survey, published in 2020, found that 83% of students were satisfied with the quality of their course, 84% were happy with the teaching on their course, 86% were happy with their learning resources and 83% were happy with their learning opportunities in the UK.

2. UK higher education quality – excellent standard

The quality, standards, validity of UK higher education have been regulated and assured by independent and government regulatory bodies to make sure these are of the excellent and highest levels.

Quality of UK higher education is continuously and consistently reviewed, monitored, assessed and assured by Quality Assurance Agency (QAA), the independent body that checks on standards and quality in UK higher education through external peer review. Reviewers check that the core expectations of the Quality Code, agreed and recognised by the UK higher education sector, are met. QAA works closely with other organisations that have an interest in the reputation of UK higher education, including the Office for Students (Ofs), Universities UK and GuildHE.

The Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation (Ofqual) is the regulator of qualifications, examinations and assessments in England and the regulator of vocational qualifications in Northern Ireland. It is responsible for ensuring that all qualifications and assessment meet high quality standards by monitoring awarding organisations, assessments and examinations and taking the necessary action to ensure that the qualifications meet the needs of learners, higher education institutions and employers. It is often referred to as the exam ‘watchdog’.Ofqual is independent of government and report directly to Parliament.

The Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) developed by The Office for Students is a national exercise to assess excellence in teaching at higher education providers and assess how they ensure excellent outcomes for their students in terms of graduate level employment or further study.

UK use The Research Excellence Framework (REF) system for assessing the quality of research in UK higher education institutions.

The Office for Students publishes list of Recognised bodies (UK higher learning institutions that can award recognised UK degrees themselves) and Listed bodies (cannot award recognised UK degrees themselves, but they can deliver courses that lead to a UK degree which is validated and awarded by a recognised body). If a UK degree/qualification is awarded by a recognised body, then it will be officially accepted as valid qualification.

3. UK higher education international recognition – highly valued

In addition to UK government’s recognition, most of the UK degrees and qualifications are recognised and professionally accredited by national and international relevant professional, technical, industrial or chartered bodies ensuring the qualification outcomes meet requirements of related bodies and international benchmarks. This adds extra value to the qualifications and help graduates in entering and developing international career.

4. UK higher education international impact – great returns

Universities UK International (UUKi) International Graduate Outcomes 2019 survey conducted by iGraduate with responses from more than 16,000 international graduates from 58 UK Higher Education Institutions reveals that 90% of graduates are satisfied with their learning experience and the support they received from their universities in the UK, 83%) felt that their UK degree helped them to get a job, 82% of international graduates say that their UK degree was worth the financial investment.

In 2017–18, 91% of responding graduates were in job or due to start work or further study approximately 15 months after leaving university (HESA Graduate Outcomes Survey results record).

UK is number 1 for educating the world’s leaders; a study by the Higher Education Policy Institute (HEPI) reveals the UK’s higher education sector has educated more of the world’s leaders than any other. Almost one in seven countries around the world has a prime minister or head of state who studied in a UK higher education institution, according to an analysis by the British Council. This measure of “”soft power”” shows 27 countries have a UK-educated leader.

UK has the 2nd most number of Noble Prize winners in the world (WorldAtlas). Additionally, there are many other country Nobel Prize winners who are educated from the UK.

5. UK advantages for international students – second to none

Shorter course duration

In the UK, students can complete a bachelor degree in 3 years and have options to complete it in 2 years via accelerated route. Duration for master’s degree is normally 1 year. In other major higher education countries, bachelor and master degree course duration is longer than those of the UK. By achieving degree in quicker duration, UK graduates can save money in tuition fees, living and maintenance costs, opportunity costs and enter career earlier.

More choices and options

International students have thousands of options for subject choice to meet their needs. There is study subject for everyone in the UK.

Clearer criteria for admission and acceptance

Unlike universities in other countries, UK university admission criteria are in black and white with clear and transparent information available on universities’ websites, all in one place.

Availability of seats and acceptance rate

Usually, there are more than enough seats to meet demands of international students and the acceptance rates are higher than those of other countries.

Safer campus and racial discrimination free environment

UK university campuses are crime and violence free, independent of political influence and bias, neutral of social and racial discrimination and everybody enjoys equal opportunities.

Access to world-class health service

International students in the UK have access to world-class top quality health services and resources offered by UK National Health Service (NHS).

6. UK’s competitive edge in international higher education – makes students winners

Lower tuition fees

In like to like comparison, tuition fees are much lower at UK universities when comparing this with same or similar ranked universities in other major English speaking countries.

Lower maintenance costs

In like to like comparison by taking standard and quality of living in considerations, maintenance costs in the UK are comparatively lower than those of other countries.

Added value with degrees

UK higher education integrates development of ‘soft’ skills with every course so that graduates accomplish a set of transferrable professional competencies and skills in addition to their academic degrees. These skills add extra value to UK graduates’ profile.

Unique learning methods

Learning at UK universities is mostly ‘learning by doing’ – courses are taught through coursework, seminars, presentations, practical assignments, group works and independent research. Thus students become responsible for their own learning and take ownership of knowledge.

Learning in unique educational environment

UK has the most multicultural and diverse society with almost every national of the world representing the international student population. This is unique to UK and learning in such environment put learners ahead in their personal development.

International exposures and connections

As UK is in the centre of international sports, culture, finance, events etc., students have exposures to international personalities and opportunities to bridge immediate or future connections and prospects.

Membership of alumni with world-famous personalities

You could be a member of alumni that might have personalities who sat to next to you in your class at University in the UK.

7. Work opportunity and immigration prospects in the UK – highly rewarding

Working while studying

International students are eligible to work part-time during academic terms and full-time during holiday period. There are part time jobs available for students in every UK city.

Working after studies

International students can apply for 2 years post study work visa after bachelor or masters studies and 3 years post study work visa after doctorate degree and work full time in the UK under ‘Graduate route’.

UK settlement visa

Eligible international students will have opportunities to switch to skilled work visa and other immigration route leading to settlement visa in the UK.

UK higher education systems are very well-structured, co-ordinated and follow common frameworks country-wide. The admission and enrolment procedures are simplified and streamlined for international students to understand these easily with clarity and intelligibility. The motto is to make students more informative so that they can take choice and make decision with complete knowledge of problems and prospects before their investment in overseas higher education. A warm welcoming UK education strategy is committed to provide as many benefits as possible to international students’ favour and advantages and give them the most pleasing and rewarding education experience.

UK Post Study Work (PSW) visa benefits to international students

Graduate visa is an UK Immigration route that allows international students to get 2/3 years Post Study Work (PSW) visa after their graduation.

Post Study Work Visa (PSW) is a Graduate Immigration route type of UK visa that will allow international students who complete a degree at undergraduate level or above at a UK educational institute and who have a valid Tier 4 or Student visa at the time of application to remain in the UK and work.

Key points of Graduate PSW Visa

Interested students will need to make a separate application for this and pay application fees & Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) fees.

This visa will allow students to work full time in most type of jobs, they will also be able to undertake self-employment professions.

There will be no requirement to secure any sort of sponsorship for those looking to apply for Post Study Work Visa.

The scheme will apply retrospectively even to those students who started their course prior to the scheme coming into effect, as long as the student is graduating in Summer 2021 or later.

It will not be possible to extend the Post Study Work visa: students will be expected to switch to a different immigration category including student route, or leave the UK.

Students will be able to apply for PSW visa only once i.e. they won’t be able to switch to Student visa from PSW visa, complete another degree and apply for PSW a second time.

Same policy will apply to students’ dependents and they will enjoy the same rights.
You will be able to switch to student or any othertype of visa from graduate visa

Who will be eligible to apply for Graduate PSW Visa

International Students who will complete a bachelor degree, a master degree or a PhD Degree from a Higher Education Provider with a track record of compliance on or after 06/April/2021 be eligible to apply for the PSW visa.

Length of Graduate PSW visa

International students completing a bachelor degree or a master degree will be granted 2 years PSW visa. International students completing a PhD or PhD Level degree will be granted 3 years PSW visa.

Can I work whilst my Graduate Route visa application decision is pending?

A The UKVI recently changed its rules so that any student who submitted an application on or after 6 April 2022 will be eligible to begin work under the above conditions while their application is being processed i.e. before they receive a decision.You can begin working on a full-time permanent contract even while you are waiting for the visa to be granted.After your Graduate visa is granted, you can work in line with the full conditions of your Graduate visa (including self-employment).

Study UK general eligibility criteria

Academic requirements

• Foundation : Secondary School Certificate/O Levels
• Bachelors : minimum Higher Secondary Certificate (students from some countries may require higher qualification)
• Masters : minimum bachelor degree
• Doctorate : master’s degree or higher qualification

English efficiency requirements

• Foundation : IELTS for UKVI overall band score of minimum 5.0 with no component below 4.0
• Bachelors : IELTS overall band score of minimum 5.5 with minimum 5.5 across all components (Pre-sessional English course with bachelors will require IELTS for UKVI with no component below 4.5)
• Masters : IELTS overall band score of minimum 6.0 with minimum 5.5 across all components (Pre-sessional English course with masters will require IELTS for UKVI with no component below 5.0)
• Doctorate : IELTS overall band score of minimum 6.5 with minimum 5.5 across all components.

Tuition fees

• Foundation (full fees): £10,000 to £15,000
• Bachelors (per year): £11,000 to £15,000
• Masters (full fees): £11,000 to £16,000
• Doctorate (per year): £13,000 to £16,000

Bank funds requirements

• University campus inside London: £12,006 +
  balance of tuition fees
• University campus outside London: 9,207 +
  balance of tuition fees

Can I study in the UK without IELTS?

A Yes, it is possible to study in the UK without IELTS.You do not need to necessarily have IELTS to prove your knowledge of English. However, you need to prove your English proficiency i.e. you can read, write, speak and understand English to a certain level.

To study below degree level, you must have minimum CEFR level B1 and to study degree level or above, you must have minimum CEFR level B2 equivalent proficiency. You can prove your English language abilities at the required level with a UKVI approved secure English language test (SELT).

IELTS for UKVI is one of the UKVI approved SELTs. If you do not want to sit IELTS, then you may wish to sit one of the following SELTs

• PTE Academic UKVI (Pearson)
• Skills for English UKVI (PSI Sevices)
• LanguageCert International ESOL SELT (LanguageCert)

If you are applying to a Higher Education Provider (HEP), they may have the provisions to assess your English with other English tests meaning you will not need a SELT to prove your English proficiency. UK HEP universities currently assess English proficiency with other tests including

• ELLT (OI Digital Institute)
• Duolingo English Test
• Password English Language Test
• KITE (Kaplan International Tools for English) Test
• TOEFL iBT Test
• HEP’s own internal English Test

If you opt to sit any of the above tests, you must achieve minimum CEFR level B2 equivalent proficiency. Please check with the HEP universities which tests they accept so that you can choose the one most suitable for you.

Some UK HEP universities accept Medium of Instruction, known as MOI letter to assess English proficiency of students applying study masters courses in the UK. If you have a On MOI letter, the home country institute asserts that the medium of instruction including tuition, assessments etc. throughout the study of the bachelor course was English. Please check with the prospective UK HEP universities if they accept MOI letter from your home country and from the institution that you studied your bachelor course to assess level of English proficiency.

You may not need to sit any SELT or other English test or provide MOI letter etc. if you have 60% or above grade in English at Higher Secondary Examination from some Education Boards in India C6 or above grade in English at Higher Secondary Examination from WAEC or NECO in Africa

You can also prove your knowledge of English by having a GCSE, A level, Scottish National Qualification level 4 or 5, Scottish Higher or Advanced Higher in English, gained through study at a UK school that you began when you were under 18.

Key point to note: if you are applying for a stand-alone foundation course, you must have a SELT certificate; this is the requirements of UKVI.

You do not need to prove your knowledge of English if one of the following applies

you’re a national of Canada
you’re applying to come to the UK for a study abroad programme as part of a university degree course in the USA
you proved your level of English in a previous visa application

You do not need to prove your knowledge of English if you’ve completed a qualification equivalent to a UK degree in one of the following countries, or are from one of the following countries:

Antigua and Barbuda
Australia
the Bahamas
Barbados
Belize
Dominica
Grenada
Guyana
Ireland
Jamaica
Malta
New Zealand
St Kitts and Nevis
St Lucia
St Vincent and the Grenadines
Trinidad and Tobago
UK
USA

Do UK universities accept students with study gap?

A Yes, UK universities accept student with study gaps if you can justify the gap duration with valid reason/s i.e. classes and exams were not held due COVID pandemic, war in the country, natural disaster in the country, medical or other circumstances beyond your control, you are in employment after your last qualification. You may need to provide appropriate evidence in support of your justification of study gap.

Usually, most of the UK universities accept 2 year study gap for undergraduate application and 5 to 7 year study gap for postgraduate application. Some of the universities accept 10 year or more study gap for postgraduate application. For PhD or doctoral level study, longer study gap will not be any issue.

Will I be able take admission if my grades are low?

A Yes, with low academic grades you can take admission at UK universities. If you are higher secondary qualified with low grades, you may need to undertake a foundation course first before you can start your bachelor course in the UK. You may also choose to take foundation + bachelor course together. If you are bachelors qualified with low grades, you may be able to take a bachelor top up course or a pre-masters course in the UK. You may also qualify for extended masters course with low grades in your bachelor degree.

How many admission intakes UK universities have?

A Normally, UK universities have 2 intakes: January and September while September being the main one and majority of the courses are offered in this intake. However, recently many UK universities have introduced a May intake too. Additionally, there are a few UK universities that have intakes in almost every two months for postgraduate courses. UK Foundation course providers have frequent intakes too. Hence, you will find admission intakes in the UK throughout the year

Will I be able take admission if my grades are low?

A Yes, with low academic grades you can take admission at UK universities. If you are higher secondary qualified with low grades, you may need to undertake a foundation course first before you can start your bachelor course in the UK. You may also choose to take foundation + bachelor course together. If you are bachelors qualified with low grades, you may be able to take a bachelor top up course or a pre-masters course in the UK. You may also qualify for extended masters course with low grades in your bachelor degree.

Do I need to submit reference letters with my admission application?

A Yes, you will need to provide 2 reference letters with your admission application to most of the UK universities. These could be two letters from your education institutions or one from education institution and one from employer (if you were/are in employment). Reference letter must be on organisations’ official letterhead with all contact details, referee’s full name, designation, email and phone number, signature and should not be dated earlier than 2 years.

Alternatively, if you do not have the references letters and are not in a position to be able to collect these soon, you can provide referee’s full name, designation, organisation’s name, official email and phone number on your admission application. The university will contact your referees to get references. You will have to inform your referees about this and make sure they reply to the reference requests.

Do UK universities take admission credibility or pre-CAS interviews?

A Yes, with a few exceptions, most of the UK universities will take admission credibility interview before they give you unconditional offer or pre-CAS interview before they issue you CAS. If you fail to clear these interviews, the university will not proceed with your application further in that intake at the least. Therefore, prepare well for your credibility interviews.

How much deposit will I need to pay for CAS request?

A Normally, you would need to pay a deposit towards your tuition feesto request your CAS (you can pay full fees too and get discount on full payment).

Different universities have different deposit requirements on their own discretions. There are some UK universities that would ask for minimum £3000 deposit while others have minimum deposit requirement of 50%/65% of tuition fees.

Will universities refund my deposit if I fail the admission credibility or pre-CAS interviews?

A Yes, all UK universities refund the deposit paid for CAS request if you fail the pre-CAS interviews. Usually they refund this in full, but there are a very few universities or some foundation course providers that may deduct an administrative fees of £200/£300. The deposit refund policy should be written on the Terms & Conditions sent out to you with your offer letter and hence you will be able to find out if there is any deduction and if so, the amount of deduction.

1. Financial evidence

Firstly, to apply for a UK student visa, international students must provide evidence of funding for tuition fees and living expenses. This includes providing proof of funds for accommodation.

As part of this, you’ll need bank statements (from yourself, parents or guardians) with the required funds in place for at least 28 days.

This evidence should include:

Tuition Fees for the first year of your course.

Living expenses of £1,023 per month for the first nine months of your course. However, if your university is in London, you will need evidence of £1,334 per month as living costs are higher.
Additional living expenses of any eligible family members, at a rate of £680 per person per month

Students from countries which are “differentiated” don’t need to provide financial evidence with a visa application. But it’s still a good idea to have this to hand – just in case you are asked to submit evidence at a later stage.

If you’re funded by an official sponsor (such as your university), you must obtain an official sponsorship letter from them too.

2. Check UK student visa requirements

UK student visa application forms can take time. Along with your financial evidence, it’s worth getting your documentation started early.

Therefore, it is important that your passport is in date and that you have any additional travel documents. In addition, you will need the following:

A valid ATAS certificate (depending on your course and nationality).
Parental or guardian consent if you are under 18.
Tuberculosis test results (for certain listed countries).

Also, you might need official translations if some evidence is not shown in English.

UK student visa requirements may also require original academic certificates and transcripts, as well as English language test certificates. Your course provider’s Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies letter (CAS) will confirm all the documents you need.

3. Accept your offer and pay course fees

Before you can apply for your student visitor to the UK, you must formally accept your university’s course offer. This is a crucial first step before your institution can offer a CAS.

Some institutions also require a deposit towards course fees. This payment will go towards your total tuition fees and are deducted from the final amount. But this payment is separate from UK student visa fees.

4. Check your CAS letter

Your CAS letter is important during the UK student visa application. Therefore, it’s worth checking that all details are correct, including personal details and course information.

The CAS letter will include information like your personal details, course details, tuition fees and deposits. In addition, any further English language qualification requirements will be shown on the letter.

To successfully apply for a UK student visa, you might need to complete a short questionnaire before your university can issue a CAS. However, this only applies to any students who have previously studied in the UK.

5. Complete the UK student visa application

With your documentation and CAS letter in place, you are ready to start the online application process.

Currently, UK student visa fees are £363 per person. You will also need to pay a healthcare surcharge for NHS services, which is usually around £470 a year.

For any short courses, UK student visa fees are £97 for six months and £186 for eleven months.

UK student visa processing time can take up to three weeks. But if you have to provide biometric information at a visa application centre, you may be able to pay to get a faster decision.

6. Finalise documents and biometrics

As part of your application, you’ll need to prove your identity.

You’ll either give your fingerprints and photograph (biometric information) at a visa application centre. Alternatively, you can use the “UK Immigration: ID Check” app to scan your identity document.

You may also be selected for a “credibility interview” which is a five-minute interview via video link with UKVI staff. If selected, this is nothing to worry about, it’s just a check to make sure you’re a genuine student.

7. Receive your entry vignette and decision letter

Usually, UK student visas are processed within three weeks. Once your application is processed, your decision letter and passport will be returned alongside a vignette added to a blank page.

This vignette allows you to enter the UK within a 30 or 90-day window. This period is usually directly before your course start date, which is specified on your UK student visa application form.

Although, there are some cases where a visa may be refused, or where an issued visa is incorrect. If this has impacted you, contact your university in the first instance and they will provide information on the best way to proceed.

8. Collect your biometric residence permit

Once you arrive in the UK, you must collect your biometric residence permit (BRP) within ten days of arrival. When you collect the BRP, bring your passport, entry vignette and visa decision letter with you.

Your BRP is an important immigration document. Once you receive the document, you must keep it safe and secure. However, if you use the UK Immigration ID Check app, you won’t need a BRP, as you’ll receive your digital immigration status via the app.
Checklist

These are a set of documents that you need to submit when you apply for your student visa. You will receive your visa only after your documents are verified.

A valid passport. Parental or legal guardian consent with proof of relationship if the student is under the age of 18.

University letter of acceptance along with the CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) number. Your university will provide the CAS reference number. You need to start your visa application within six months of receiving your letter of acceptance because your CAS number will expire in 6 months. However, 3 months is generally more than enough to obtain your visa.
Statement of proof for your funds. This is to check if you will be able to take care of yourself financially. You need proof you can pay tuition fees for the first year of education and your cost of living for up to 9 months.

Internationally Recognised Universities

UK higher education and qualifications have a remarkable international reputation and the UK degree is globally accepted by international universities, top employers and government bodies, creating a huge number of chances to get placed with leading companies.

Universities such as the University of Cambridge, University of Oxford, University College London and University of St Andrews have global reputations for excellence that are matched by very few global institutions.

Quality Education

Many countries like to follow the UK’s education system, as its quality is considered as the best in the world. UK universities are inspected regularly by QAA to assess the standards of teaching, learning and research to ensure that set benchmarks are met. The Indian education system is also based on that of the UK.

Opportunities offered by the UK Education System

A wide choice in selecting your field of study and institution
Shorter duration of courses in the UK helps reduce tuition and accommodation costs
The English language support to help you develop excellent language skills, which has crucial importance in the global digital arena and increases one’s chances of employment
Promoting close student-teacher interaction with a provision of combining different subjects into a single course

Unique Culture

The unrivalled cultural diversity of life in the UK gives you the chance to experience a multicultural environment, meet fellow international students and develop a range of desirable skills that are necessary to be part of today’s global workforce.

Post-study Work Visa

Along with your studies, you can work in a part-time job, internship or placement and develop valuable skills that will be added to your CV. Your university may assist in providing placement after studies. Also now you are eligible to stay back in the UK for 2 years after completing your degree under the new Graduate Immigration Route.

Scholarships and Financial Support

Most UK universities offer merit based scholarship programs and funding opportunities to international students to support their studies and cost of living. To apply, you will need to first gain acceptance to the course of study.

Strong Research Infrastructure

30% of UK university research is classified as ‘world-leading’ and 46% as ‘internationally excellent’ by the Research Excellence Framework (REF).

Support System

Every year, the UK government warmly welcomes lacs of international students with open arms. International student societies, besides organising parties, conducting events, planning activities and outings, help in the rough days as well by giving advice on personal problems and assisting you as you fit in.

What is the Graduate Route?

The UK’s Graduate Route welcomes international students to apply to stay in the UK and work, or look for work, upon graduation. International students who have successfully completed an undergraduate or master’s degree can apply to stay in the UK for up to two years after their studies. PhD graduates can apply to stay for up to three years.

This is a fantastic opportunity for international students who want to take their next steps into employment in the UK.

What are the benefits of the Graduate Route?

The Graduate Route is unsponsored, which means you can use the time after you graduate to work, or look for work, at any skill level. You will have the flexibility to gain work experience, undertake an internship or work as a freelancer in the UK.

There is no minimum salary requirement, and there is no limit on how many international students can have the opportunity to stay in the UK through the Graduate Route.

Once you have found suitable employment in the UK, you’ll have the chance to switch to a skilled work route and remain in the UK after your two or three years have come to an end.

The UK is home to top universities

UK universities are among the most respected in the world. In fact, according to QS World University Rankings 2021, eight UK universities are ranked among the top 50 universities globally. They are:

• University of Oxford
• University of Cambridge
• Imperial College London
• University College London
• University of Edinburgh
• University of Manchester
• King’s College London
• London School of Economics and Political Science

Universities in the UK are well-known for their R&D capabilities, medicine, and arts and humanities courses – and there are more than 100 universities to choose from. To see which universities in the UK excel in your specific area of study, QS World University Rankings also breaks down universities by subject.

It’s incredibly diverse
Fourteen percent of the population in the UK was born abroad, about 9.5 million people. This means international students who move overseas to the UK could have the opportunity to learn about numerous different cultures and make friends with people from around the world. This is especially true if you’re moving to London, where 35% of the population was born outside the UK. Even more, you’ll also likely be able to stay closely connected with your own culture, through attending community events or visiting restaurants that serve food from home – things that can help with homesickness and culture shock.

There is support for overseas students
There is plenty of support for international students in the UK. This might be online, through your university, or through the local government. For example, each university has an office set up to address international students’ needs, and answer questions about tuition, housing, and academic support, etc. You can also be in touch with this office before you apply to a university.

The UK Council for International Student Affairs, which is an advisory body for international students, boasts lots of great information on their website for international students, as well – including resources on mental health support, housing, working, and immigration. They also have a hotline you can call with questions. Learn more here.

You might be interested in our articles: scholarships for international students in the UK and UK loans for international students.

Studying in the UK will improve your English skills
What better place to practice your English than England, where the language originated from? By studying in the UK, you’ll get the chance to hear numerous different British accents – including English, Irish, Scottish, and Welsh, all of which might sound distinct in different regions.

Since the UK is so diverse, you’ll also be exposed to different English accents from around the globe, giving you a real-world listening experience you might not get at home.

There are job opportunities after graduation
This March, the government announced they’d soon open up applications for the Graduate route – a move that’s set to attract even more students to study in the UK. Starting in July, international bachelor’s and master’s students will be able to apply to stay for 2 more years after graduation, while international doctorate students can stay for 3 years. This makes it easier for new professionals to settle and begin their careers in the UK.

There are also lots of career opportunities, especially if you work in a job on the UK’s Shortage Occupation List. In the UK, there is a shortage of nurses, pharmacists, teachers, engineers – and more – and the government actively recruits professionals for these positions from abroad.

Learn more: The great UK skills shortage – 5 occupations that can help you move abroad

it’s a great place to live
So, what’s it like to live in the UK? According to the OECD Better Life Index, pretty good. People in the UK ranked their general satisfaction with life a 6.8 out of 10 (which is higher than the OECD average). The UK also ranks above average in things like jobs, education and skills, and social connections – all things that may be important to international students.

Finally, you’ll have a lot of fun
From London to Glasgow, to Manchester, to Nottingham, the UK is home to a whole range of great student cities for international students to explore.

You might want to enjoy the UK’s pub culture through university student nights or visit your new city’s world-class art galleries and museums. You’ll get the chance to tour centuries-old castles, and explore landscapes, cliff sides, and picturesque towns. Most of all, you’ll get to meet friends from around the world – and with them, enjoy all the UK has to offer.

There are many reasons for visa refusals but here are a few of the common reasons –

1. Failure to prove genuine intention to study or credibility as genuine student

Poor academic backgrounds and long study gap without explanations,
Choosing to study irrelevant course,
Doubts in intention to study the proposed course,
Academic ability to study the proposed course,
Lacking in knowledge of course and institution and awareness of alternatives,
Suspicious reasons for choosing a particular course or institution, including undue influence from family, friends and agents,
Failure to explain why the student has chosen this country rather than the home country or other international study destinations.

2. Lack of knowledge about the prospective course

What the prospective course offers, what knowledge it covers,
why the course would be beneficial and what are the learning outcomes,
course level, modules, structure, duration, assessment criteria, teaching methods,
failure to compare similar/same courses offered at other universities,
academic progression offered by the course,
career prospects in home country after graduation.

3. Lack of knowledge about the prospective university

Reasons for choosing the university, awareness of alternatives,
how the university compares with other universities in the country and other countries,
teaching and assessment methods in the university,
facilities and resources offered,
lack of knowledge about course faculty,
Unique features of the faculty and the university,
location of the university.

4. Intention to leave the country at the end of the course

Applicant’s plans on completion of studies i.e. career prospects in home country,
individual’s economic circumstances i.e. motivation for migration,
links with the destination country including family and friends,
links with country of origin, including family, employment and business interests.

5. Poor English language standard

No or low English language test score,
lacking basic English language competence,
failure to communicate in correct English without aid of an interpreter,
doubt in the ability to study the proposed course.

6. Submission of an invalid Certificate of Acceptance of Studies (CAS)/Visa Letter

Invalid supporting documentation,
submission of ‘provisional’ certificates,
failure to submit the education documents listed on the CAS,
discrepancies relating to the proposed course and/or institution,
not providing other documents that have been highlighted on the CAS.

7. Failure to submit specified financial documents

Failure to provide sufficient evidence of available funds,
not being in receipt of the required funds for the mandatory period prior to application,
submission of fraudulent documentation or non-verifiable documents,
unable or unwilling to give a credible explanation of the source of funds,
unable to give a credible explanation of how the funds would meet course and maintenance costs in future years, suspicion that money for the course was provided by an agent or other third party, an applicant/sponsor’s level of income did not equate to the cost of the proposed course, doubts in the ability to accommodate and maintain themselves and any dependants,
doubts over whether funds could be accessed in the destination country,
the applicant’s bank account was opened a short time before the application was made,
had no history of money regularly coming in,
submission of incorrect documents or incorrect formats.

Wanting to study abroad is a huge commitment that involves time, money and above all your future. For genuine students a degree from world-class universities abroad could make a huge difference and you well deserve it. After overcoming the hard hurdles of acceptance by university, it is heart-breaking if you get your study visa refused, and we no way appreciate this.

Will UK Home Office refund my fees if my visa is refused?

A Home Office will not refund your visa application fee if your visa gets refused. However, they will refund your Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) fee if you paid it. Normally, the refund is automatic; you do not need to contact them, it will be refunded to the same account from where you paid it.

Is there any appeal right against the visa refusal?

A There is no appeal right against the UK student visa refusal. However, in most cases the Home Office will give you the right to submit an Administrative Review (AR) application. This is where you believe the decision to refuse your application was incorrect and you request that the Home Office look at the application again. You will be given instructions in your decision letter on how to apply for an administrative review. You cannot submit any fresh documentation or evidence with an admin review.

There is a £80 charge for Administrative Review application. You must apply online for an administrative review within 28 days of getting the decision.

Can I apply to study in the UK if I have visa refusal/s in the past?

A Visa refusal is part of the visa applications, not all applicants get visa granted and the refused applicants would have opportunities to apply for visa again to the same country or to another country for same type or other type of visas.

If you have visa refusals in the past and now wish to apply for UK student visa, you can do so if you can prove positive changes of circumstances which were the reasons for your earlier visa refusal for example, you failed to show enough funds in your account on earlier application and got refused, but now you have the required amount of funds available or your level of English was poor when made the earlier application, but now you have good IELTS score or earlier your student visa was refused but you obtained a visit visa for the same country later etc. – all these scenarios prove changes of circumstances to positive directions and you should normally be accepted by most of the UK universities and if you make a valid student visa application to UK Home office, you can expect a positive outcome.

Having said so, it is also crucial to know that if your earlier visa application was refused due to deception, fake document or materially false information, then you have very slim chance of getting accepted by any university and visa grant by the Home Office.

Step 1
Allow enough time to take preparation: take long preparations before admission and visa application. Gain sound efficiency in English language.

Step2
Research for detailed information: research, research and research in courses, universities and countries in details before making a decision to study abroad – be informed, be engaged.

Step 3
Make arrangement for finance: talk to your family, take financial preparations, maintain appropriate funds in appropriate formats.

Step 4
Gather appropriate documents: gather documents in correct formats i.e. original certificates, all documents in English, evidence to prove sources of funds.

Step 5
Allow enough time for admission: apply for admission well before the course start date –ideally at least 3 months before your planned visa application.

Step 6
Allow enough time for visa decision: submit visa application at least 6 to 8 weeks before your proposed course start date.

DO NOT –

• Apply if you are not a genuine student,
• If you do not have financial ability,
• Get your agent or someone else showing funds,
• Submit any fake document or give false information,
• Fall for cheap courses, cheap institutions and cheap promises.

Why study in Ireland?

The country is known for its friendly people who welcome those from overseas gladly. They’re down for a good time and are famed for partying in pubs and chatting with friends.

On top of all this, it’s a place blessed with spectacular scenery and diverse cities. If it’s nature you’re after popular destinations include the dramatic Cliffs of Moher and the stunning Killarney National Park.

For city life you have five to choose from, the most popular being the cobbled streets of Dublin and the eclectic and bohemian Galway.

With all this on offer, it’s easy to see why studying in Ireland is such a popular choice.

Student life

Studying in the Republic of Ireland can provide a rich student experience.

Most universities have services to help students find on-campus accommodation in their first year. Halls of residence offer a great opportunity to meet new people and form lasting friendships.

Societies and sports clubs are a fantastic way to immerse yourself in. You could give Gaelic football a go, a traditional Irish team sport, or join an International Students’ Society to meet like-minded people.

You may also be asking, “Can I study in Ireland at my own expense?” If you have the right visa, you can also work in Ireland as you study. A great way to earn work experience, save some money, and meet new people outside your university.

It’s clear to see that life for international students in Ireland can be an exciting experience.
Preparing and living in Ireland

How to open a bank account in Ireland as an international student?

International students’ healthcare and medical insurance in Ireland

Working in Ireland

How to work in Ireland after graduation

Popular cities

Dublin – As the capital of the Republic of Ireland, Dublin is home to nearly a quarter of the country’s population.

Its great selection of highly-ranked universities and ever-growing international population make it an increasingly popular destination for students. Moreover, the city is renowned for its awe-inspiring medieval architecture, outstanding literary heritage and lively nightlife.

Cork – Situated on a bustling harbour in the south, Cork has become a haven for tourists who explore its vibrant culture and hidden treasures.

A vibrant nightlife, including a hub of trendy bars, nightclubs, and traditional pubs give the city depth for its students and visitors.

International students can be assured of an excellent educational offering as well as exceptional post-graduation opportunities. International companies including Glaxo-Smith-Kline, Johnson & Johnson and McAfee, as well as Apple have European headquarters here.

Galway – Galway sits on the stunning west coast of the country and is internationally recognised for its stunning beaches, arts and cultural events.

As the home of the Galway Arts Festival and the Cúirt International Festival of Literature, there’s plenty of opportunities to delve into the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Galway was also named the European Capital of Culture 2020 and is home to some of the most prestigious universities in the world.
With University College Dublin (UCD) ranked in the top 1% of higher education institutions in the world and Dublin itself named as Conde Nast’s friendliest city in Europe, it’s easy to see why people from around the globe come to study in Ireland. Outside of its capital city, this is a country of rich history and rugged, wild beauty, as well as a country with great craic (the irish word for news, gossip, fun and entertainment).

With a great and lively cultural atmosphere, Ireland is a perfect country to come and study as a ‘home from home’. It’s also a country consistently ranked in the world’s Top 20 for quality of life, peace and human development. With a wide range of specialist subjects on offer at colleges and universities around the country, you can find your future here in Ireland.
What’s on this page :

Intakes
Jan/Sep

Annual Tuition Fees
€3,000-€30,000

International Students
32,000

​Monthly Living Costs
€2,270.56

What is a post-study work visa in Ireland?

As an international student studying in Ireland, you can apply for a post-study work visa to stay back and work for up to two years after graduation through the third level graduate scheme.

The duration of your post-study work visa will depend on the level of your course. The breakdown is as follows:

Level 7 (Ordinary bachelor’s degree) – 6 months
Level 8 (Honours bachelor’s degree) – 12 months
Level 9 (Postgraduate diploma/ Master’s degree) or higher – 24 months

Who is eligible to apply for a post-study work visa in Ireland?

• You must have completed your course/degree from a recognised Irish university.
• You must have a written statement from your university stating that you’ve completed your course.
• You need to hold a valid stamp 2 student visa.
• The Irish Government permits international students to stay and study for a maximum period of 8 years. You need to have at least two years left out of the permitted eight years at the time of application.
• You must have complied with the laws of the state while studying.

When to apply for a post-study work visa in Ireland

You need to apply for your post study work visa before your study visa expires. You also need to start your application within six months after completing your course.
What to do after your post-study work visa expires in Ireland

Once your post-study work visa expires, you can either go back to your home country or decide to stay back and continue working. In order to remain in Ireland, you can apply for one of the following,

• Critical skills employment permit
• General employment permit

Caution: As Northern Ireland is a part of the UK please check the United Kingdom section for information on that region. The above article pertains to the Republic of Ireland.

The type of visa you should apply for depends on the length of your degree:

• C-type study visa – for any study programme/course that lasts less than 3 months (90 days)
• D-type study visa – for any study programme that lasts longer than 3 months. To stay longer than 3 months, non-EU/EEA students also have to register with the Garda National Immigration Bureau, which can grant the permission to stay in Ireland beyond the initial 90 days.

When and where to apply for the study visa in Ireland?

You can apply for a study visa up to 3 months before your date of arrival in Ireland.
To apply, you must simply complete an online application form on the website of the Irish Naturalization and Immigration Service.

After filling the online application process, follow the instructions and submit your supporting documentation.

You may be required to provide your Biometrics information as part of the application process.
The visa processing time is variable, depending on your nationality and other factors. Usually, you will get an answer in 4 to 8 weeks from the date on which your application is lodged at the Visa Office/Embassy/Consulate.

It is best not to buy travel tickets until you receive an official answer from the Irish consulate.

Language requirements for studying in Ireland

International students must meet the minimum English language requirements in order to be granted a student immigration permit.

You will be required to provide proof of English language proficiency through an internationally recognised certificate, which has been issued within 2 years of the expected start date of the course. Accepted English exams are:

IELTS Academic
TOEFL iBT
PTE Academic

Documents required for the student visa in Ireland

• Two recent colour passport-size photographs
• Passport and a full copy of any previous passports
• A signed letter of application including your full contact details (stating the reason you want to come to Ireland)
• Letter of Acceptance from the college/university
• Evidence accounting for any gaps in your educational history
• Proof of payment of the registration and tuition fees
• Copies of all academic qualifications and exam results required for university studies
  English language proficiency certificate
• Proof you have sufficient funds to support your stay in Ireland without recourse to public funds, or the reliance on casual employment
• Medical Insurance
• Commitment to leave Ireland on the expiry of your visa

The estimated costs of living in Ireland for a student during one academic year are 7,000 EUR. Non-EU/EEA students who are studying for a period of fewer than 6 months are required to prove that they are able to handle living costs of 500 EUR/month.
Requirements for Ireland Student Visa

In order to apply for an Irish visa, it is necessary to have your documents ready beforehand. Be it your academic transcripts, your language certificates, or your financial documents; it is recommended that you keep all the documents required for Ireland student visa handy.

Let us now make you acquainted with all the documents required for Irish student visa:

• Age requirements
• A valid passport
• Letter of acceptance
• Medical requirements
• Proof of payment
• English proficiency requirements
• Financial requirements
• Other additional requirements

Let us know about each of these requirements for the Ireland student visa checklist, in detail below:

Age Requirements

The Ireland student visa age limit is 18 years. In order to study at top Irish universities you should have completed your high school, and should prove your 18 years as the Ireland student visa age limit, through a birth certificate.

A Valid Passport

Your passport has all the details of your previous journey. Make sure to carry it in an easily readable and scannable condition. Also, your passport should be valid for 12 months following your arrival in Ireland.

Letter of Acceptance from a recognized College/University

A letter of acceptance would act as proof of your study in Ireland. Having the letter of acceptance printed would be the best, to ensure that you’ve been selected as a potential student in an Irish university.

Medical Requirements

If you are a non-EU student, you will be required to acquire health insurance coverage for immigration purposes. The chosen healthcare plan must cover up to 25,000 EUR for in-hospital treatment in Ireland.

Proof of Payment

A proof of payment would act as an evidence of your accepting the program. Any invoice, EFT, or slip that proves you have paid the 1st-semester tuition fee and university registration fee would suffice.

English Proficiency Requirements

English language competency in the form of a PTE/ TOEFL or an IELTS score for Ireland student visa is a mandatory requirement. It can be in the form of an internationally recognized certificate issued within two years of the course’s projected start date.

Given below are the PTE, TOEFL and IELTS requirement for Ireland student visa:

Exam

Minimum Score Required

IELTS
5.0 (Overall)

TOEFL iBT
61

PTE
30

Financial Requirements

Ireland student visa financial requirements prove that you have sufficient funds to support your stay in Ireland without recourse to public funds (a minimum of 7,000 EUR to 10,000 EUR is suggested).

Ireland student visa financial requirements may include a bank statement covering a six-month period. If you are going on a scholarship, produce the official receipt of the scholarship.

Other Additional Requirements

Other requirements to apply for a student visa Ireland from India are as follows:

Evidence accounting for any gaps in your educational history
A signed letter of application including your full contact details (stating the reasons you want to study in Ireland)
Copies of all academic transcripts
Copies of all exam results
Commitment to leave Ireland on the expiry of your visa
Two recent colour passport-size photographs

Frequently Asked Questions about Ireland Student Visa Requirements

Is there any interview for an Ireland student visa?

Ans. Unlike other popular countries Visa procedures, there is no mandatory visa interview for student visas for Ireland. In case needed, the Visa officer may request the student to attend a personal interview at an official Irish Visa Facilitation Service centre (VFS).

Is IELTS required for Ireland Student Visa?

Ans. Yes, it is required with a minimum of 5.0 overall score. You can appear for other accepted English proficiency exams TOEFL or PTE.

What happens if my visa application is refused?

Ans. In case of visa refusal, your public university will refund the entire amount of the tuition fee paid. However, a small fee towards your application processing fee might be deducted. You can appeal within 2 months or reapply anytime if your visa has been refused.

Find out more up-to-date information about the student visa for Ireland on the official Irish government website.

Apply for a work permit in Ireland

EU and EEA students are allowed to work in Ireland without any restrictions, whether they take up full-time or part-time work. Non-EU/EEA students can work:

part-time: up to 20 hours per week during semesters
full-time: 40 hours per week during scheduled holidays

However, they have to meet the following criteria:

Hold a GNIB card – a certificate of registration you receive from the Immigration Office on your arrival in Ireland
Be enrolled in a study programme that is included on the government’s list of visa eligible courses

Irish visa application process is the face to face interview, which normally takes place at an official Irish Visa Facilitation Service centre (VFS).

It’s worth noting that not every study visa applicant is required to do an interview, but those who do need to will be notified by your visa officer.

So, how can you prepare for your Irish student visa interview if you need to do one?

Thankfully, it’s not a difficult process — it’s simply a way for the Visa Facilitation Service to ensure that your intentions for studying in Ireland are honest
Ahead of you visa interview, make sure you have access to all the following things to guarantee a smoother interview process:

• Letter of acceptance from your university.
• A recognised certificate confirming your English language ability (check out our full article on English language assessment tests here!).
• Evidence that your course fees have been paid.
• Proof that you have enough financial support (€7,000) to maintain yourself for the initial part of your stay.
• Proof that you or a sponsor have access to at least €7,000 for each subsequent year of your studies, in addition to the course fees for each of those years.
• Evidence that you have private medical insurance.

An explanation of any gaps in your educational history (if applicable)
Confirmation that you intend to return to your country of permanent residence when you leave Ireland.

1. Ireland student visa processing time

You should apply for your Ireland student visa three months ahead of moving there.

The visa processing time is variable, depending on your nationality and other factors, though it usually takes 4 to 8 weeks to receive a verdict.

2. Ireland student visa success rates & rejection rates

Ireland’s Department of Justice does not publish any official statistics on student visa success and rejection rates, however it’s been unofficially estimated that around 95% of Ireland study visa applications are successful.

This estimate is based on the overall Irish visa acceptance rate of around 90%, couples with student feedback surveys and industry insiders knowledge.

So all in all, the rejection rate for Ireland visa applications is extremely low. Just apply correctly and make a good impression in your interview and you should be in!

3. How to prepare for and pass your Ireland student visa interview

Okay now that we’ve got the nitty gritty admin out of the way, let’s look at a few handy tips to prepare for and make a good impression at your visa interview!

i) Know what kind of questions you’ll be asked

Naturally, it’s difficult to know exactly what questions you’ll be asked at your interview, but it’s pretty well known which general things the interviewer will ask about.

All of the questions will be about your future aspirations, your reasons for wanting to study at the university you’ve been accepted by, and your educational background. In the interview, you may also be asked to reaffirm or clear up any details from your application form.

So, expect questions about your education, your experience, your ambitions, your personal background, and your finances.

ii) Do your research

When it comes to justifying why you want to study in Ireland, and at your particular university, try to give substantial answers. This will involve doing a little research about the department you’ll be studying in, their research and impact, or perhaps some of the faculty members.

If you can showcase that you’ve actually made a considered choice to study at that university, you’ll make a really strong case for being granted a study visa.

iii) Practice your English speaking

It seems simple, but this could make all the difference. It’s important that both you and the visa officer can communicate smoothly and openly — it’ll help set you both at ease!

You don’t have to put on an accent or appear to be the most fluent English speaker on earth, but if you can make your point effectively, you’re sure to succeed in your visa interview.

But don’t go learning your answers off by heart! You want to sound natural, so spend a few minutes each day trying to speak English aloud, even to yourself if you have to!

iv) Dress appropriately

Little things like this can help make a nice impression. Try to follow a smart casual dress code — not as formal as a three piece suit or formal dress, yet not as casual as a t-shirt and shorts.

Slacks, chinos or jeans, and a tidy button down or polo neck shirt should have you looking just the part!

v) Tell the truth

There’s really no point in lying in your visa interview, since pretty much everything is checked and double checked.

Just be yourself and answer your questions honestly — having done the research and preparation of course!

vi) Show up early!

There are few things worse than being late or in a rush for an interview! Try to arrive 15 or 20 minutes before your visa interview so that you can catch your breath, get orientated, settle down and go over the potential answers you’ll give in your mind again.

vii) Don’t forget your documents

Need we go into detail here? It’s like not forgetting your passport when you go to the airport! All those documents we listed above, as well as any others that might be made known to you when you book your visa appointment, should be brought along on the day of the interview. It would be a terrible waste of the journey to forget anything.

A little tip: collect all your documents and put them in a folder in order the night before.

Why do you need health insurance while studying in Ireland?

Having a good healthcare plan is critical for an international student. While away from home, you need health insurance to fall back on in case of illness or accidents. In many countries, including Ireland, having health insurance is mandatory for international students.

Ireland’s public healthcare system does not cover non-EU students, so you need to purchase private health insurance.

Different health insurance options

You need to have one of the following insurance plans at the time of immigration to be permitted into the country.

Travel insurance

You can use your travel insurance to satisfy the insurance requirements if:

The insurance covers you for one entire year. If your study duration is less than one year, it will suffice if the travel insurance covers you for that duration.
The insurance must be at least €25,000 for accidents and €25,000 for diseases.
The insurance must provide coverage for any period of hospitalisation.

Group insurance

Some colleges will offer a group insurance scheme that covers emergency medical treatments. The premium for such schemes is generally low at around €180 per year. You can show the letter of enrolment from your college as proof of insurance during immigration. Make sure that the letter indicates that:

You are a student at the college.
You have paid for the group insurance scheme offered by the college.
Coverage details of the insurance.

Note: It is not mandatory to take the group insurance scheme offered by your college. You are free to opt for private insurance if needed.

Private insurance

Private insurance companies offer more comprehensive health insurance options. You can visit Irish insurance providers’ websites to check their plans and choose one that suits you. You can also choose to avail medical insurance from your home country if they provide coverage in Ireland.

You need to bring the insurance papers with you during immigration as proof.

Some of the major insurance providers in Ireland are, VHI, Irish Life and Laya Healthcare.

Note: If you cancel your medical insurance after the immigration process is over, you will be in breach of immigration conditions.

Caution: As Northern Ireland is a part of the UK please check the United Kingdom section for information on that region. The above article pertains to the Republic of Ireland.

Education quality

Irish universities adapt the most innovative teaching methods around the world to educate their students. They regularly evaluate their education system to improve it.

The entire system is built around the curiosity to learn and is heavily practical and research-oriented. The Irish education system ranks in the top 20 in Europe (IMD world competitiveness yearbook).

Top ranking universities

Like the country’s education system, its universities also rank highly in various reputable rankings. Ireland’s top universities include:

Trinity College Dublin
Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI)
National University of Ireland
University College Cork
Maynooth University
Dublin City University
University of Limerick
Dublin Institute of Technology
University College Dublin

These universities rank in the top 700 in the QS world university rankings and the top university rankings. Irish universities also rank in the top 1% for research and innovation.
Diverse courses

Ireland’s universities offer over 5,000 courses in various subject areas at different study levels like undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctorate levels. Some of the Irish research courses that rank well globally include:

Immunology (#1)
Animal husbandry (#1)
Nanotechnology (#2)
Agricultural sciences (#2)
Microbiology and genetics (#4)
Material sciences (#5)
Neuroscience and behavior (#6)
Basic medical research (#6)
Mathematics (#7)
Microbiology (#8)
Chemistry (#8)

Career

Amazing Opportunities

In the past few decades, Ireland has grown into a highly developed country. It is now known for its excellent banking service and is also the headquarters for many world-leading MNCs and pharma companies.

The government has also heavily invested in the development of agrotechnology. So, irrespective of your study area, you can find opportunities to gain work experience and build your career.
Part-time jobs

Alongside internships and work placement programmes, you can also gain work experience through part-time jobs.

If you own a stamp 2 student visa, you can work for up to 20 hours during term-time, and 40 hours from May to August and December 15 to January 15 (vacation days). There are a set of requirements that you need to satisfy before you start looking for a job. For more information on this, read ‘working while studying in Ireland’.

Post-study work permits

Ireland offers post-study work permits for international students. You can stay back for up to 2 years after graduation to find a job and gain work experience. Most universities will also assist you in getting your CV up to scratch and applying for a job at this stage.

Lifestyle Safety and happiness

Ireland ranks #12 for peacefulness (Global Peace Index) and #16 for happiness. The country also has one of the highest GDP per capita, promoting growth and individual freedom. This high quality of life is yet another prospect that attracts international students.

Plus, Ireland offers pathways if you decide to stay back after graduation to work and settle down.

Friendly locals and beautiful landscapes

Ireland is one of those countries with a modern way of life set in beautiful countrysides and idyllic cityscapes. You are able to partake in an array of outdoor activities, like camping and hiking.

Irish people are also known to be very friendly, and most international students find it easy to adapt because of the warm welcome from locals. In fact, Dublin and Cork have been ranked as the 6th and 17th friendliest cities in the world (Bigseventravel).
Rich history and culture

Irish people celebrate and cherish their traditions. You can immerse yourself in their rich culture by taking part in the famous St. Patrick’s day festivities, traditional sports competitions, and the many Irish music festivals. Ireland is home to some of the oldest castles and forts, like the Dún Aonghasa fort built in 1100 B.C. You can visit these historical sights and walk through the hallways that have stood firm against multiple attacks and invasions in the past few centuries.

Irish scholarships for international students

Learn about the scholarships available to study in Ireland to help with the cost of your international education.

The Republic of Ireland is one of the most affordable study abroad destinations that offers top-quality education. Despite the relatively pocket-friendly tuition fee and living expenses, scholarships can help further ease financial stress.

Scholarships differ based on the organisation offering it, your university, and your course. There are many options available, and you can find a scholarship apt for you with a little bit of research.

You can apply to get a full scholarship covering the tuition fee and the other expenses like accommodation and food. You can also opt to apply for partial scholarships covering just the tuition or a part of the tuition.

Here are some of the most popular Irish scholarships for international students:

Irish government scholarships for international students.
Irish university scholarships for international students.

Irish government scholarships for international students
The Government of Ireland International Education Scholarship

The Government of Ireland offers 60 scholarships for international students pursuing bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral programs in Irish universities through the Government of Ireland International Education Scholarship. The scholarship amount includes a €10,000 stipend and covers the tuition and registration fees.
Government of Ireland Postgraduate Scholarship

The Department of Education and Skills offers the Government of Ireland International Education Scholarship to international students pursuing reach-based master’s degrees and doctoral programmes.

Individual students can apply for this scholarship after their university confirms their admission. The scholarship amount includes a €16,000 stipend, a contribution of €5,750 to the tuition and direct research expenses of €2,250 every year.
The Walsh Fellowship

Teagasc, the Agriculture and Food Development Authority, offers the Walsh Fellowship to 140 students pursuing a doctoral program or a research-based master’s program in agriculture, horticulture, agri-food economics, and rural development.

The applications are sent in by full-time academic staff working in universities that are in collaboration with Teagasc. The selected staff will then choose one of their students to benefit from the fellowship. The scholarship amount is €22,000 per student.

Note: The scholarships mentioned above are just some of the most famous ones. There are many more organisations offering many scholarship opportunities for international students.
Irish University scholarships for international students

Irish universities encourage diversity and welcome many talented students from all around the world every year. Hence, most Irish universities offer some form of financial aid or scholarship for eligible students in need. Check your university website at the time of application and see if you meet the eligibility criteria to apply.

There are many ways to reassess your application to avoid ‘refusal’ for a tourist or student visa in Ireland, more often an immigration/visa officer will check all the information and documents.

• If there is no sufficient funds to cover the entire visit/study in Ireland.
• If previous immigration history has not disclosed
• One may use a certain sponsor for his travel/study expenses in Ireland, but the sponsor has not provided all of his documents that will deem to claim his/her financial capability.
• The applicant has not established a proof of relationship to his sponsor
• If there are inconsistencies, misleading information and fraudulent documents
  There should always a Six (6) months bank statement and its quality will be part of the assessment of the visa officer, in addition to the sharp increases of money prior to submission of application where an applicant cannot account to explain
• If one cannot demonstrate a strong ties in his country of residence i.e., social, economic, and family ties
• If there is a gap with employment and qualification in particular, with the student visa application where, an applicant cannot account to explain
• If the applicant could be a threat to the public policy in Ireland and public health
• If there is an additional information or verification made by the officer and the applicant or sponsor has failed to respond
  The quality of documents, for example a certificate of employment of the applicant, where there is no contact details or email address of the employer, or even if there is a typographical error from the public government documents that do not match exactly with the details of the applicant or to his sponsor.
• Insufficient or the leaking of documents as per requirement in applying for the visa to travel or study in Ireland
• If the visa officer is not convinced that the visa conditions will be met by the applicant in coming up with the decision according to the documents and information provided by the applicant
• If your propose study has not had a logical pathway – one cannot study the course that s(he) has already taken from his country of residence or overseas, unless, otherwise, there is a compelling reason to undertake the course which may consider the relevance of the course on a credible level. One may also submit an application for him to demonstrate his obligation to return to his country of resident, though running a business (with business name), however, as to assess on the basis of the business the visa officer will also look into the documents as the business’ profitability.
• If there is no clear statement for the purpose of visit or study to Ireland, i.e., a schedule for the itinerary as a tourist and or a study plan for student.
• If according to the documents you have provided, the visa officer conducts an examination and investigation, where the applicant has previous criminal offence, or criminal act.
• If after the examination of documents made in the individual circumstances, the applicant may not follow the visa conditions, resulting to overstay in Ireland and or be a burden to the state.
• If the eligibility criteria has not met according to the immigration policy of Ireland

Please note each embassy’s for Ireland, may have a different procedures or instructions to follow by an applicant when applying for a visa to Ireland.

What happens if your Ireland Study Visa gets Rejected?

The Ireland Visa issuing authorities would get in touch with you if your application has been rejected either by letter or by email setting out the reason(s) for the decision (check above). If you have not received the decision letter (or email), then you are required to contact the office where you have submitted your visa application.

Reject applicants have the right to appeal their visa decision without having to pay any additional fee. However, all appeals must be submitted within two months of the date mentioned on the Ireland student visa letter of refusal and only one appeal for an application is permitted. A refusal decision on an appeal cannot be open to further appeal.

A student visa is a document that legally allows students to pursue an education in a particular country for a limited period. In this case, the learning process stretches and candidates can extend their student visa. However, upon the completion of the course, they are required to return back to their country. It is important that candidates project the impression that they will return to their country and not settle down illegally upon the completion of their course. Students should be confident during their interview and answer all questions posed to them truthfully and to the best of their understanding, in order to acquire that student visa.

Insufficient Finance
Candidates travelling to Ireland frequently have their student visas denied because of a lack of funds. Authorities believe the applicant won’t be able to support himself financially for the duration of his stay, and they deny him a visa on this basis.

Therefore, the applicant must demonstrate to the officials that they have enough money in their account to support them throughout their stay in the nation. Candidates must demonstrate that they will only depend on assistance from taxpayers or other public resources throughout their stay.

Misleading Information
You should always provide the visa officer with accurate information. Inaccurate information regarding your personal or other facts could be your return ticket even before you get to your ideal Irish university. It is advised to strictly maintain only true and original data to prevent one of the most typical grounds for Ireland student visa denials.

Incomplete Documents
Applying for a student visa is complex and demands extensive planning. On the Ireland student visa interview day, applicants must prepare their documentation. Candidates can examine the documentation required on the official website to apply for a student visa successfully. Students should remember to bring all of their documentation in the correct sequence. Another significant factor for many visas being rejected is the submission of insufficient documentation.

Average Academic Record
Your academic history reflects who you are as a learner. A strong academic history throughout your student life, not just in your most recent degree courses, creates a positive image of your student profile. Your academic record can persuade the visa officer of your qualifications and prevent Ireland student visa denial.

An average performance in your academic results might backfire on your visa approval process in Ireland.

Criminal Records
A criminal is not welcome anywhere. It would be best to keep a healthy distance from such affairs unless it is essential, whether directly or indirectly. Having a criminal record will directly influence your visa acceptance. It is a significant factor in the denial of an Ireland student visa.

Medical Issues
To be qualified for an Ireland student visa, you must meet specific health requirements. Making sure you get your doctor to certify your medical health is essential because this is one of the most frequent causes of Ireland student visa refusal.

Wrong Visa Selection
One of the most frequent causes of Ireland student visa refusal is choosing the incorrect type of visa. The duration of your degree will determine the visa you should seek:

Any study program or course lasting less than three months requires a C-type study visa (90 days).
Any study program lasting more than three months requires a D-type study visa.
Ireland Student Visa Rejection Rate
Ireland has a 1% to 4% rejection rate for student visas, meaning 96% of applications are approved. Even if it is rare to have your visa rejected, you may choose to be safe by being aware of what to do and what not to do, which will reduce your likelihood of falling into the category of Ireland’s student visa rejection rate.

Over 10% of visa applications were turned down in 2019, according to Ireland’s 89.6% global visa acceptance percentage.

Despite the low rejection rate, there are unhappy applicants each year whose applications for student visas are denied.

Ireland Study Visa Rejection Codes – Ireland Study Visa Rejections Reasons
ID (insufficient documentation) -When the candidate has not provided adequate supporting documents, documents have not been translated to English, your Irelands Visa application form is incomplete, or where you have not signed the Ireland Student visa application form.

F (finances)-When the candidate is unable to prove that he/she will be unable to financially support him/herself during the entire duration of stay and study.

PF or PR (public funds or public resources)-If the candidate is going to rely on support from public funds or public resources in a foreign country, it is negative and your visa application would be rejected.

R (reference in Ireland)-Ireland Study Visa issuing authorities are interested to know about your intentions in their country. This is where your university admit letter comes into play.

P (passport)-When the candidate’s passport is due to expire in six months or other passport-related issues are rejected under this code.

VR PVR (visa refused and previous visa refusal(s)-If your earlier Ireland visa application was rejected and your situation has not changed since your visa application would be rejected.

INCO (inconsistencies)-If there are inconsistencies in your Ireland visa application, your visa may be refused.

SP (student profile)-Unexplained gaps in education history, English language test scores or if the student has applied for a course that does not match their prior education can lead to Ireland student visa rejection.

CP (course profile)-The candidate needs to know why they want to pursue their said course and the benefits the course would have on them in the future.

OB (obligation)-The student must make clear their obligation to leave the country once their course is over.

OC (observe the conditions)-Candidates must be true to their visa regulations which include foreign students who will not overstay, work illegally and not use the Common Travel Area without an appropriate visa.

How to prepare for and pass your Ireland student visa interview

Okay now that we’ve got the nitty gritty admin out of the way, let’s look at a few handy tips to prepare for and make a good impression at your visa interview!

i) Know what kind of questions you’ll be asked

Naturally, it’s difficult to know exactly what questions you’ll be asked at your interview, but it’s pretty well known which general things the interviewer will ask about.

All of the questions will be about your future aspirations, your reasons for wanting to study at the university you’ve been accepted by, and your educational background. In the interview, you may also be asked to reaffirm or clear up any details from your application form.

So, expect questions about your education, your experience, your ambitions, your personal background, and your finances.

ii) Do your research

When it comes to justifying why you want to study in Ireland, and at your particular university, try to give substantial answers. This will involve doing a little research about the department you’ll be studying in, their research and impact, or perhaps some of the faculty members.

If you can showcase that you’ve actually made a considered choice to study at that university, you’ll make a really strong case for being granted a study visa.

iii) Practice your English speaking

It seems simple, but this could make all the difference. It’s important that both you and the visa officer can communicate smoothly and openly — it’ll help set you both at ease!

You don’t have to put on an accent or appear to be the most fluent English speaker on earth, but if you can make your point effectively, you’re sure to succeed in your visa interview.

But don’t go learning your answers off by heart! You want to sound natural, so spend a few minutes each day trying to speak English aloud, even to yourself if you have to!

iv) Dress appropriately

Little things like this can help make a nice impression. Try to follow a smart casual dress code — not as formal as a three piece suit or formal dress, yet not as casual as a t-shirt and shorts.

Slacks, chinos or jeans, and a tidy button down or polo neck shirt should have you looking just the part!

v) Tell the truth

There’s really no point in lying in your visa interview, since pretty much everything is checked and double checked.

Just be yourself and answer your questions honestly — having done the research and preparation of course!

vi) Show up early!

There are few things worse than being late or in a rush for an interview! Try to arrive 15 or 20 minutes before your visa interview so that you can catch your breath, get orientated, settle down and go over the potential answers you’ll give in your mind again.

vii) Don’t forget your documents

Need we go into detail here? It’s like not forgetting your passport when you go to the airport! All those documents we listed above, as well as any others that might be made known to you when you book your visa appointment, should be brought along on the day of the interview. It would be a terrible waste of the journey to forget anything.

A little tip: collect all your documents and put them in a folder in order the night before. That way you can just grab them and go!

Top-Notch Educational Institutions

Australian universities are among the best universities in the world. Some of the best academic institutions around the country offer competitive programs and stunning campuses.
These institutions can set you ahead in your career and educational goals. Since Australian universities are known for their extensive research programs, studying in Australia is an excellent idea for students interested in research.

Multicultural

Australia is known for its diverse population of immigrants from all over the world. You will meet people from different cultures and backgrounds when studying in Australia. You will learn about new cultures and let others understand you.
Also, you will get familiar with different political views, traditions, lifestyles and religions.

Lifestyle

Australia is an English-speaking nation with a population of about 24.6 million. People from over 190 countries reside in Australia. The country is better known for its laid-back and fun-loving lifestyle.
The locals keep their work and life balanced, which promotes a healthy lifestyle. This is one of the reasons why international students are attracted so much to the Australian way of living.

Vibrant City Life

Australian universities are located in both urban and rural environments. When you choose to study at any of these universities, you’ll be able to travel to other neighbouring cities easily.
From quirky shopping boutiques in Melbourne to the spectacular Sydney beaches, each offers many unique experiences.

Easy Communication

English is the native language of Australia. People perceive English as a universal language, making it easier for international students to understand. Australians are known for the slang they use.
You’ll be amazed to hear the variations of different slang words they use. If you struggle to understand conversations, ask someone to explain the slang to you.

AQF Recognised

Introduced in 1995, the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) is a national policy that ensures regulated qualifications in Australian training and education providers. This framework includes higher education, vocational education, secondary school and training (VET) Courses.
AQF creates pathways between educational standards and qualifications at each level, so no matter what you study, you will get formal recognition from the Australian Government.

Scholarships

The Australian Government has awarded around $200 million worth of scholarships to many international students at regional universities. These scholarships are designed to support students financially with their studies in Australia.
Some major scholarship programs available for international students are Australia Awards, the Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP) and the Australia APEC Women in Research Fellowship. For deserving students, the scholarship value will depend upon the selected course at the university.

Incredible Work Opportunities

Unlike other countries, Australia offers a Temporary Graduate Visa to International students studying in Australia. With this visa, they can continue to work after they have graduated.
International students have several rewarding experiences and opportunities to gain real-work experience in Australia. Working part-time while completing a degree helps students to cover their college and living expenses.

Affordable Accommodation Options

Australia welcomes students from all over the world. And when it comes to living options, Australia has so much to offer.
Regardless of your length of stay, the university you study, or your personal preferences, you can choose from on-campus accommodations, homestays, rental properties and short-term accommodations.

High-Possibility of Settling In Australia

Many international students are attracted to Australia’s sightseeing, quality of life and laid-back environment. Some even aim to settle in the country by acquiring PR from the Department of Immigration and Border Control (DIBP).
The chances of gaining permanent residency (PR) are enhanced when working and studying in regional areas, but you still need to meet all DIBP requirements.

Fastest Growing Destination

Australia is the third most popular destination for overseas students, behind the USA and the UK, with the best businesses and companies worldwide, a unique educational system, and an ever-rising traveller’s interest.
Most overseas students study here for its cultural diversity, friendly natives, and superior quality of education. It is home to 700,000 international students currently.

Freedom To Gain Work Experience While Studying

Australia is a great place to stay and obtain higher education and a job. Students have the freedom to work simultaneously while studying without having to apply for a separate work visa.
Students struggling to pay their tuition fees or manage their daily living expenses can easily find jobs to gain work experience and pay for expenses.

Any Major Is Welcome

Australia’s universities offer a multitude of degrees and majors. Whether you study English, medicine, engineering, or Mathematics, you can be sure to find numerous options and combinations to choose from.

Easy Internship Opportunities

Another significant advantage of studying in Australia is the ease of securing university-led internships that suits your interest. Many Australian degrees and VET courses comprise work experience programs and training that help you gain hands-on industry experience and expand your professional network while studying.The invaluable work experience you gain naturally paves the path for several job opportunities for overseas students in Australia. After completion of the degree, you can stay and work in Australia.

Innovative Teaching Methods

Another critical reason to consider studying in Australia is that education providers have the latest technologies and devices, which enriches students learning process.

Live And Study Safely

Australia is one of the safest countries with the lowest crime rates in the world. Public spaces are open and secure with multiple options for accommodation, such as purpose-built student villages, private rentals, share-houses, boarding school accommodations, and homestays.

Enjoy A High Standard Of Living

Australia is technologically advanced and one of the most liveable countries in the world. Its robust and globally competitive economy lets you enjoy the benefits of superior-quality education, healthcare, transport, government services, and infrastructure in towns and cities.

Australian universities offer a vast range of courses for both domestic and international students. Over 40 universities and 1000 institutions offer over 22,000 courses in varied streams.
The Australian National University alone offers more than 750 possible course combinations that provide ample opportunities to widen your academic horizons.
Students can choose from undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, vocational and technical training courses, student exchange programmes, and English language training.
Moreover, many universities offer flexible timetables that enable students to study courses full-time or part-time based on convenience and choose from various optional subjects in different semesters of their qualification.

Easy Access To Student Visas

The country offers a simplified and streamlined process that makes it easier for students to obtain a Student Visa (subclass 500).
You need to apply for a student visa with certain information and provide the IELTS or The Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE) results, the university admission receipt, the fee receipt, and health insurance for your stay to get the student visa approved.

Well-Defined Learning System

The country has a sophisticated Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) where courses and programmes are regulated to ensure quality education.
The framework provides consistency in the qualification titles throughout Australia and facilitates the transition of learners across various education and training sectors.

Health Insurance

Australia provides international travel medical insurance, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), to overseas students who have student visas to travel and study in the country. This health insurance covers expenses whenever they fall sick or need emergency care.

Working After Graduation

Study Australia – After Graduation

Unlike in some other English-speaking countries, there is no automatic right associated with your student visa to stay and work for a period of time in Australia after you complete your degree. When you receive your student visa, the government lets you in on a temporary basis of entry for study with the understanding that you will leave upon completion of course and before the visa will expire. Australia continues to have demand for foreign workers, and students that have earned a degree in Australia have a special work visa category. There are also several other visa categories open to international students, and Australia has a very straightforward path to permanent residency using a points system . If you want to stay and work after you graduate, you must apply and obtain a work visa.

Here are a few of the categories of visas that are available:

• 485 Skilled Graduate Temporary Visa
  This visa is the most common option available to international students after graduating. With a 485 visa, you are allowed to stay in Australia for 18 months to gain work experience only if you have just completed at least two years of study in Australia.
• 402 Training and Research Visa
  Another option for international students, the 442 visa is for students to improve their work skills for up to two years while being sponsored by an employer.
• 487 Regional Sponsored Visa
  This visa provides a pathway for permanent residency while allowing you to work for 3 years and work in a specialized regional area
• 887 Skilled Regional Residence Visa
  The 887 visa awards you permanent residency and with this you can live and work in Australia permanently. You must have already lived in Australia for two years, have a year of work experience and have sufficient points.
• 885 Skilled Independent Residence Visa
  The 885 visa allows you to live as a permanent resident and work without needing to be sponsored
• 886 Skilled Sponsor Resident Visa
  The 886 visa allows an overseas student to apply for permanent residency and work while being sponsored by an employer.

As mentioned above, Australia uses a point system to see if someone qualifies for most visas. The point evaluations will be assessed along with your application. These are a few of the items that gain you points:

• English ability or mastery
• Occupation in demand
• Between 19 and 44 yrs of age
• Work experience
• Australian qualifications (length of study)
• Sponsorship

To see if you have enough points to pass use the point calculator.

You should make an appointment with one of your university’s counselors to discuss your options before you graduate as rules and requirements change often.

Student Visa Rules

Many international students studying abroad in Australia will want to work during their time spent studying in the country. For these students, it is important to be aware of the rules under their student visa when it comes to work.

Work Rules for International Students

International students in Australia on a valid student visa can work for up to 20 hours per week while school is in session, and there is no limit on the number of hours an international student can work during recognized school vacations. A work week in Australia is considered to be Monday through the following Sunday. Although they are allowed to arrive in Australia up to 90 days before their course begins, students are not allowed to begin working until after their courses have begun.

The 20-hour-per-week limit does not extend to any work the student is required to undertake as a component of his or her studies or training. Volunteer and unpaid work, however, does count towards the 20 hours. If an international student works more than the Australian restrictions allow, his or her visa may be cancelled.

Work Rules for Family Members of International Students

Family members (spouses and children) accompanying the international student under their student visa have the same work rights as the student – 20 hours per week. Unlike the students, family members may not exceed 20 hours per week, even during holidays. For those students obtaining a graduate degree, like a masters degree, their family can work unlimited hours. Like students, family members are not allowed to begin work until after the student has started his or her course.

Work Permission and Visa Applications

Prior to April 26, 2008, students applying for a student visa to Australia were required to apply separately for permission to work. As of April 26, 2008, however, students are now able to receive permission to work along with their visa grant. This applies both to the student and any family members who may be travelling with the student under his or her visa. This saves students both time and money when applying for visas and work permission. The visa application fee in Australia is currently A$535.

International students who wish to study in Australia first need to be accepted into an Australian educational institute before applying for a student visa. When applying for a visa, students will need to supply a confirmation of enrollment issued by the Australian educational institution which the student intends to attend as part of their application. This serves as proof that the student is really staying in Australia for educational purposes. It is also recommended that students apply for a visa as early as possible for beginning their stay in Australia, due to the time it can take to process a visa application.

Further Rules and Regulations
Other rules and restrictions under Australian student visas include:

• Students are required to pursue a consistent study program that has been approved by the Australian government.
• Students have to fulfill all of the requirements of the study program in which they are enrolled.
• Students must maintain satisfactory attendance in their course and course progress for each study period as required by their school.
• Students are required to maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).

Working during your stay in Australia is a great way for international students to supplement their finances. However, it is extremely important to be aware of the restrictions placed upon you as an international student. If you violate any of these restrictions, your student visa may be revoked and you could be deported out of Australia.

Getting a Job

There are many ways to find a job in Australia. The most common ways are through newspaper ads, employment agencies, government national employment services, and job networks. For the most part, searching for a job in Australia is no different than looking for a job anywhere.

Finding a Job

One of the first things you should do when searching for a job is to research the companies you are interested in. After you have done your research, you should send in an application or resume to the company and schedule an interview. In order to acquire a job a student must exude good manners and punctuality when interviewing. Have your phone on you at all times in case a prospective employer calls. Be persistent. Remember when looking for a job that school comes first so the jobs you’ll look for will have hours during the night. Visit Work in Australia for more tips about resume writing and the application process.

After You Have the Job

A few things to make note of after you have secured a job in Australia:

Never sit down in front of an employer unless the job is designed so that you do so
Don’t show signs of tiredness
Have good hygiene
If working around food, clean hands and nails are a must
Classes come first over work
Average pay is roughly A$19 an hour.
Student tutors average A$40 an hour.

You could get paid more for working on a Sunday or a holiday depending on your employer
Jobs that were unappealing at home might be viewed differently in a new country. The jobs most most easy to obtain might not be the most interesting, but having a job at all will help immerse you in the culture. The fact that you will be in a new place with new and interesting people will be more important than what you are actually doing.

Typical jobs held by international students can include:

Picking/packing fruits and vegetables
Department store staff
Bartender
Kitchen hand
Waiter
Cleaner
Gardener
Clerical assistant
Babysitter
Tutor
Staff in fast food chain
Supermarket staff
Cinema staff
Translators
Struggling with English?
Being proficient in English has its advantages but it is not essential. Students who are still struggling with the language have many jobs they can do. If you aren’t skilled in English many jobs in manual labor are often readily available.

Australian student visa requirements

When completing your online visa application form, you’ll need to provide evidence of the following according to the Australian student visa requirements:

Financial requirements: Evidence of sufficient funds to cover tuition, travel and living costs. From February 2018, the amount you need to prove you have for living costs (separate from tuition and travel) is set at AU$21,041 (~US$14,185) for a year. If you have dependents (such as a spouse and children), you will also need to show evidence of being able to cover living costs for them, including school fees. Alternatively, you can show evidence that your spouse or parents are willing to support you and that they earn at least AU$62,222 (~US$41,949) a year.

English proficiency requirement: If you’re not from an English-speaking country (and haven’t completed at least five years’ study in an English-speaking country) you’ll need to prove you can speak English to the required level. Eligible tests include the IELTS, TOEFL iBT, Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic, and Cambridge Advanced English (CAE). The score you will need will depend on whether you are starting a full degree, doing a foundation course, or enrolling on a preliminary English Language Intensive Course for Overseas Students (ELICOS).

Health requirements: Some students may be asked to take a medical and/or a radiological check-up to show they’re in good health (this applies, for example, to those who intend to train as a doctor, dentist or nurse). If told to do so, you must attend an appointment with a doctor who has been approved by the Australian immigration department.
Except those from Sweden, Belgium or Norway, all students are obliged to purchase Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). You may purchase this cover through your university, or directly from one of the five approved providers: Australian Health Management, BUPA Australia, Medibank Private, Allianz Global Assistance and nib OSHC. The cost of this health insurance cover will vary depending on the provider and how long you purchase cover for.

Students from Sweden who have purchased health insurance through Kammarkollegiet will not need to purchase OSHC. Belgian and Norwegian students are also not required to purchase OSHC as part of their visa requirements.

Character requirements: Australian student visa requirements stipulate you must be of good character to enter Australia. This includes a criminal record check, to make sure you don’t have a substantial criminal record. You may also need to acquire a penal clearance certificate (or police certificate) or get a police statement, and may be asked to complete a Character Statutory Declaration Form.
Australian student visa documents

Using your student visa
You can enter Australia on your student visa up to 90 days before your course starts. Within seven days of arrival, you must inform your education provider of your resident address, and also inform them within seven days if you change address.

To address workforce shortages, student visa work hours have been temporarily relaxed. Students can work more than 40 hours a fortnight in any sector, and will be able to start work before their course of study begins.

If you’re studying a master’s by research or a PhD you don’t have any work restrictions. Keep in mind that any work required as part of your course is not included in the limit. Voluntary/unpaid work is also not included in the 40-hour limit if it’s genuinely voluntary, for a non-profit organization and for the benefit of the community.

While in possession of a student visa, you have certain obligations to fulfil: you must remain enrolled in a CRICOS-registered course, attend classes regularly, make satisfactory course progress and maintain OSHC health insurance. There are also certain visa conditions you and your dependents must comply with; breaching a visa condition may result in the cancellation of your visa.

A student subclass 500 visa lets you stay in Australia for the duration of your study program, which is mostly up to five years and in line with your enrolment date. For a smooth stay, you need to ensure that your visa remains valid and that you abide by the student visa conditions mentioned on your student visa. You can read up in detail about this kind of visa on the Australian Government’s Department of Home Affairs website.

Scope of your subclass 500 visa
You can enrol in your desired study program and university
You can be accompanied by your family members to Australia
Dependents can apply for a dependent visa to seek permission to travel with the main applicant
Simple and streamlined visa requirement for all students
You can apply in or outside Australia through an online portal

Basic checks before you apply
You should be enrolled in your desired study program in Australia
You should hold Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) or for the duration of your program
You must be equal to or more than 6 years of age
An evidence of welfare arrangement done in Australia (in case you are less than 18 years of age)

Documents required for an Australian student visa

COST OF STUDYING IN AUSTRALIA
In Australian universities,Arts, Education, and Humanities courses are cheaper while subjects like Engineering and Medicine are expensive. Studies at the Post Graduate level have higher tuition fees.

Study Program-Average Tuition Fees in AUD$

Undergraduate Bachelor Degree
20,000 – 45,000

Postgraduate Master’s Degree
22,000 – 50,000

Doctoral Degree
18,000 – 42,000

Visa Fees
In Australia, student visa fees are from AUD$650 per visa application* unless you are exempt. Australian student visa processing times vary from person to person. Visa processing times are available on the Department of Home Affairs website.

Student visa holders (including dependents) who arrived in Australia before 19 March 2022 can apply for a refund of their Visa Application Charge up until 31 December 2022. Further information is available on the Department of Home Affairs website.

*Prices are correct at July 2022.

Student Visa Requirements
Here is a breakdown of everything you need to apply for an international student visa.

1. Letter of Offer
If your application is successful, you will receive a Letter of Offer from your chosen education provider.

Read the Letter of Offer carefully before you accept it. It will include your course details, enrolment conditions and fees you will need to pay if you accept the offer.
Make sure that you understand all your rights, including the refund arrangements; if you don’t start or finish your course, the agreement will be used to determine if you will receive a refund.
Do not accept the Letter of Offer if you are not happy with any of its terms.
Keep a copy of the Letter of Offer. You will need this copy so that you are aware of your rights and if you have to make a claim against the institution.

2. Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)
A Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) is a document that will be issued by your education provider that verifies your enrolment in a specific course. The CoE will be sent to you after you have accepted your offer and paid your deposit.

You must include a copy of this document in your visa application so that the Australian Government has proof that you are registered in your declared course.

3. Proof of English Proficiency
If you are not a native English language speaker, you’ll need to supply a certificate of results from an approved English language test, because Australian educational courses are taught in English. This certificate will prove to the Australian Government that you meet the minimum English proficiency levels needed to succeed in your given course.

There are only certain tests you can take that will be accepted by the Australian Government, but all are easily accessible from around the world.

There are varying minimum requirements for each education level, and institutions sometimes set these requirements higher for certain courses.

See studying and training visas on the Australian Department of Home Affairs website for more information and check the education provider’s website for English language requirements.

4. Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) Requirement
To meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, you must write a statement that addresses two criteria:

1) That you are genuinely coming to Australia to study and not for any other reason.

2) That you will only be residing in Australia temporarily (and not overstaying your visa).

In your statement, include details on your ties to home (such as your friends and family, or a job that you have to return to) as well as the value of the course to your future career or academic goals.

By including these details, it will prove both your intention to return home at the end of your visa and your true intention to study in Australia.

5. Proof of Sufficient Funds
To receive an Australian student visa, you must prove that you have enough money to support yourself throughout your stay. There are two options for meeting this requirement:

Provide bank statements, evidence of grants or scholarships. This will prove that you have enough money to cover all your costs and expenses through your course, such as travel, course fees and rent.
Supply proof of your parent’s or partner’s annual income, which must be AUD$62,222 in the year immediately before you apply. If you bring family members, the annual income must be at least AUD$72,592.
For more information on the minimum required funds, head to the Department of Home Affairs website, and navigate to ‘Gather your documents’.

* Prices are correct as of 6 May 2021, refer to the Department of Home Affairs website for current price information.

6. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
As an international student in Australia, you must have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay.

If you don’t provide proof that you have bought this insurance, your student visa application will be denied.

OSHC will help you:

Pay for medical or hospital care while studying in Australia.
Pay for most prescription medicines.
Provide you with ambulance cover in emergencies.
While organising your health cover, also make sure you order an OSHC card for use at doctor appointments while you’re living in Australia. Read more on our insurance page.

You can find out more about OSHC cover, including where to purchase OSHC at PrivateHealth.gov.au.

7. Health Requirement
The Australian Government requires all international students to be in good health before entering the country. As a result, you may need to undergo a health examination and provide a medical certificate confirming that you meet these health requirements.

8. Character Requirement
There are also certain character requirements that you must meet if you want to study in Australia. In your application, you’ll have to answer some basic questions about your character and past conduct. In some cases, you may even need to provide a police background check.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Q1. How much money do I need to show for a student visa in Australia?

Ans. You will need to show that you have enough money to cover your tuition fees and living expenses for the duration of your studies. The exact amount you will need to show will depend on the length of your course and where you will be studying in Australia.

Q2. How long does it take to get a student visa in Australia?

Ans. The processing time for a student visa application can vary depending on where you are applying from, and the volume of applications being processed at the time. It is recommended to apply as early as possible, as the process can take several weeks or even months.

Q3. What type of health insurance do I need for a student visa in Australia?

Ans. You will need to have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire duration of your studies in Australia. OSHC covers basic medical treatment and hospital care, but you may need to purchase additional insurance to cover extras such as dental or optical care.

Q4. Can I change my course or educational institution after I have been granted a student visa?

Ans. Yes, you can usually change your course or educational institution after you have been granted a student visa, but you will need to inform the Australian government of the change and provide updated information about your new course or institution.

Q5. Can I apply for permanent residency in Australia after studying on a student visa?

Ans. Yes, you may be eligible to apply for permanent residency in Australia after completing your studies, depending on your individual circumstances. There are several pathways to permanent residency, including the Skilled Independent visa and the Employer Nomination Scheme visa.

UPCOMING INTAKES IN AUSTRALIA
Australian universities have diverse deadlines for application. However, the two general timelines are broadly applicable:

Intake 1: Semester 1 – this intake commences in February and is the major intake for students.

Intake 2: Semester 2 – this intake commences in July.

WORK AUTHORIZATION FOR STUDENTS:
Student Applicant:

Students must be over 18 years of age.
International students in Australia staying on a valid student visa can work for up to 20 hours per week.
An exception is, working as an academic assistant. There is no limit on the number of days academic assistants may work.
They are not allowed to be self-employed or work as freelancers.
After graduation students can apply for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485). The visa will be granted based on the coursework and the category under which the student has applied to study in Australia.

AUSTRALIA STUDENT VISA REQUIREMENTS:
Student visa details:

The Australia Student Visa is called Subclass 500.

You will be eligible for a student visa only if you want to study a registered course or part of it on a full-time basis.

The maximum validity of the student visa is five years.

The Department of Home Affairs website has a document checklist feature that will provide you with a list of documents required for your specific circumstances. Typically, students must submit the following:

• Completed Australian student visa application form (157A)
• Paid visa application fee – currently AU$650 (~US$438) in most cases
• Copy of passport biodata page (some students may be asked to physically provide their passport)
• Certificate of Enrolment or Letter of Offer
• Evidence of sufficient funds
• Evidence of health insurance cover
• English proficiency test results
• Criminal record check results
• Four recent passport-sized photographs

After you have assembled and scanned your supporting documents, you’ll need to create an account and apply with the online ImmiAccount application system.

The course you wish to pursue must be registered with the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS).

Issued an electronic Confirmation of Enrolment (eCoE) certificate – this is to confirm your enrolment in an Australian University.

Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement – this is proof of your intention to come to Australia only to study and not to settle down here.

Four recent passport-sized photographs
Certified or notarized copies transcript/document of academic results

Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) – approved by the Australian government, this health insurance provides basic medical and hospital cover. You can purchase this insurance through your university.

Results of tests in the English language like IELTS, TOEFL, PTE if you are a non-native English speaker
Evidence of monetary means for covering all expenses during the period of study
If applicable, proof of civil status

The Australian University will intimate of additional requirements if any prior to your application

Financial requirements – to get your student visa you must prove that you have the funds to cover your course fees, travel, and living costs.
Character requirement – you must submit a certificate to prove you have no criminal record.
Proof of visa fees payment – proof that you have paid the required visa fees.

If there are any other additional requirements, the university you have been selected for will let you know about them.

50 percent of visa applications take four weeks to process. If you study in Australia for a course that is longer than 10 months and finishes at the end of an Australian academic year (usually mid-December) your visa will usually be valid until 15 March the following year. If your course is longer than 10 months and finishes in January to October, your visa will usually be valid for two months following the completion of your course.

Under some circumstances, it may be possible to apply for a further visa at the end of your course (consult the Department of Home Affairs website for more details)

When applying for your student visa to study in Australia, you will generally need:

Proof of enrolment (your electronic confirmation of enrolment eCOE)
A valid passport
Your visa application fee
Your Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement
Academic and work experience documents
Evidence of your English proficiency skills (such as IELTS test scores)
Evidence of financial ability (tuition fees, living expenses, expenses for dependents, return airfare)
Details of your health insurance policy (OSHC)
Passport-sized photographs

If you are under 18 years of age, you will also need to provide additional documents such as parental consent.

While the minimum IELTS requirement for student visa is 5.5, you will need to aim for a higher score to get into top universities. Moreover, the IELTS requirement may vary from course to course. For instance, courses like Business, IT and Engineering usually require 6.5 IELTS score. The requirement for Nursing, Physiotherapy, and teaching is 7.0 or sometimes even higher.

APPLY FOR YOUR VISA
The next step is to apply for your visa. Your Australia student visa application must include the following documents.

• Electronic Confirmation of Enrolment (eCoE) certificate
• Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement
• Financial Requirements that you can fund your studies (funds to cover your return airfare, tuition fees and a sum of AU$18,610 per year)
• Your English Proficiency test results
• Australian approved health insurance cover
• Verification of your criminal records

We have listed the reasons here why Australia is better to study in than other countries:

Australia’s standard of living is better than the United States and the United Kingdom. Significantly lower tuition costs, living expenses, and the freedom to work part-time while studying make it an attractive study-abroad option.

Australian universities and research institutions provide an education designed to help international students succeed in the global workforce. Having an Australian qualification makes them very attractive to potential employers in Australia and worldwide.

The country offers the most rigorous consumer protection for international students. According to the Australian Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act 2000, all educational programs for overseas students must meet strict government guidelines.

“Government-funded financial assistance” is another crucial reason that tempts overseas students to study in this country. Austudy, an Australian Government social security payment, is given to students above 25 years who wish to undertake university courses. At the same time, those below 25 years and unemployed are eligible to obtain Youth Allowance.

The country offers a Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) that allows overseas students to stay in Australia and continue working once they graduate. Students can work part-time for up to 20 hours per week while completing their degree. This is an excellent opportunity to earn money to offset living and college expenses while staying and building work experience in their area of interest.

Students who have a Student Visa automatically get permission to work. Though they need to find employment on their own, once hired, they can work in several fields, including administration, hospitality, and retail. It helps them gain real work experience in Australia and enhances their fluency in business English.

What Are The Benefits of Studying in Australia?

Here are a few benefits that make Australia a leading destination for students worldwide.

• Wide range of universities and courses to choose from.
• Australian universities are constantly ranked in the world’s top 100 universities, ensuring world-class education.
• Its globally recognized education levels make you a desirable candidate to future employers and facilitate access to global employment opportunities.
• Practical and career-orientated training instils confidence in the students that they can survive successfully in a competitive world.
• World-class laboratories and classrooms, fully stacked libraries, and the best internet access
• Multicultural educational society
• Rapid implementation of new technologies
• Work experience opportunities
• Low unemployment rates
• Strong economy

Australia has a great climate, including gorgeous coastlines, rainforests, deserts, reefs, bushland, islands, and cities, and activities like camping, mountaineering, etc.
Immense support for students includes scholarships and specialized student services such as tuition protection, student associations, counselling and support, academic care, and an overseas student ombudsman to protect and promote student rights.

Is Australia Good For International Students?

Australia has emerged as a promising land for studies in various disciplines. It offers a broad array of rewarding experiences in the form of world-class education, incredible work opportunities, and leisure opportunities. If you enjoy your time studying in Australia, you may be interested in staying on longer.

What Are The Benefits of Studying Master’s in Australia?

The country offers many benefits to international students pursuing a master’s degree. It is well-known for its high-quality education system and affordable study programs and has more than 1,000 institutions and 22,000 courses to choose from.

The University of Melbourne and Monash University are the leading universities that offer a wide array of courses.

The common concern among overseas students is study costs and living expenses. Due to the high education costs, many students abandon their dream of pursuing a Master’s abroad. However, this isn’t the case in Australia, as the government offers over 200 million dollars yearly in scholarships for deserving overseas students.

The Endeavour Postgraduate Scholarship provides up to AU$272,500 for eligible non-Australians to undertake a Master’s or PhD level coursework or research in any field in Australia for up to 4 years.

There’s almost nothing that Australia doesn’t have. Every year several international students choose Australia as their preferred study-abroad destination, and the number of students each year is increasing!
Presently, Australia is third behind America and the United Kingdom in terms of overseas student intake and has seen around 200,000 international students attend its universities over the last several years.

Studying in Australia entails world-class education, diverse work, a prosperous multicultural society, the beauty of the unique landscape, and social opportunities. In addition to the diversity of students, universities provide customized programs and services that help study-abroad students to make the most out of their academic experience.

Why Study in Australia For international Students?

There are several reasons why studying in Australia can be advantageous for you.
The country is home to the world’s highest-ranked educational institutions and universities.
It offers over 22,000 courses across 1,100 institutions, which, in turn, translates to more study options for international aspirants.
Australia offers reasonable living and study costs compared to the cost incurred while studying in the USA, UK, and other countries.
The country has a flourishing economy with many job opportunities for skilled learners.
You can enjoy a diverse, multicultural community that welcomes overseas students and ensures excellent global exposure.

What is The Advantage of Studying In Australia?

Australia has world-class universities, plenty of warm sunshine, and an inexpensive and carefree lifestyle that captivates students from around the world to study in this country.
Here is a quick list of what Australia is famous for in education:
The country is home to prestigious and globally-recognized universities.

You get an opportunity to study hundreds of different subjects.

Each year the government allocates over 200 million dollars for scholarships specifically for international students who come to study in Australia. Thus, you get many scholarship options to meet your study needs abroad.

You need just a Student Visa to become eligible for employment in Australia. Being able to work while studying in the country provides an affordable study experience to overseas students.

There is no Language hurdle.

Australia’s climate remains temperately warm to downright hot year-round, thereby making it a liveable place to study and work.

Besides world-class education, you also get numerous leisure opportunities to relax and unwind from the academic atmosphere. Many major Australian universities lie in cities that give easy access to sunny beaches, parks, trails, and student clubs.

Is It Good To Migrate To Australia?

Yes. Australia is the best for immigration regarding education, health, employment opportunities, the outdoors, and quality of life. It is ranked as one of the best countries for its respected educational institutions, globally recognized qualifications, and numerous funding options and scholarships when it comes to education.
The country promotes creativity, independent thinking, and innovation throughout its universities. As an international student, you can expect to learn, live, and grow in a young and friendly country full of opportunities.
After graduating with globally recognized qualifications, skilled international students will find more promising career prospects in the current global job market. Thus, those who choose to study in Australia can be assured of a challenging, enjoyable, and rewarding experience.

Is It Easy To Get PR In Australia?

Obtaining permanent residency or PR is the dream for many international students in Australia, offering benefits such as:

The right to live for an indefinite period in Australia

• Ability to sponsor family members
• Enrol in Medicare
• Get access to Australian government services
• Get higher education student loans
• Pathway to citizenship

However, it isn’t easy to get PR, even with suitable certifications. SKillSelect, a platform where you can submit an expression of interest (EOI) for a PR visa, requires at least 65 points to become eligible for permanent residency. It is much easier to get an invitation if you have 80 points.

You must research before submitting an expression of interest (EOI) and understand the areas where you can gain points. Some of these areas include:

• Skilled employment experience within Australia or abroad
• English language skills
• Educational qualifications
• Australian study requisite
• Professional year in Australia
• Specialist education qualifications
• Study in regional Australia
• Credentialed community language
• Partner skills
• Nomination or sponsorship (for Subclass 190 and 491)

Insufficient Fund:
Evidence that you have sufficient funds must also be presented. The big reason for refusing a visa is insufficient funds in the applicant’s bank account or lacking the necessary amount of funds to study and live in Australia. You must have sufficient funds to live and study in Australia when applying for a study visa Australia.

Health and Character Concern:
One must be in good health and have good character when applying for an Australia study visa. If your application for a visa does not meet the requirements of Australian health or character then the application may be refused.

Wrong Information:
If the information provided in the visa application is not appropriate, your visa application will obviously be denied. This may also include the application’s false statements. One should have reliable and correct information at all times.

Unable to prove claim:
If you do not have enough information to prove the claims you mentioned in your visa application, your Australian study visa may be rejected. You need to provide enough information to prove the claims in the request.

Interview Rejection:
The interview session with the Immigration and Border Protection Department also sometimes leads to the refusal of visas. This is because the student who appeared for the interview did not answer the questions honestly and was not able to explain the clear purpose of remaining in Australia. If you appear for an interview it is essential that you respond honestly and correctly to all the questions.

Failure to meet the academic qualification:
You will have to register as a student to apply for a student visa which means you will have to successfully complete the academic level needed for further study. Academic entrance requirements can vary depending on the course, educational level and university at which you wish to study.

Failure to meet English requirement:
You’ll have to speak English if you’re going to study in an English-speaking country. It means that in order for your student visa to be accepted, you will have to fulfill the English language requirements.In addition to your visa application, you will need to provide your English language test results for many applications.

FAILURE TO MEET THE GENUINE TEMPORARY ENTRANT REQUIREMENT

First things first. If you have no clear plan for your education in Australia, it’s time to get one. At least, if you want to show you are a genuine, one of a kind-ish, aspiring exchange student. We don’t want swindlers and wannabes.

In this case, one of your biggest visa requirements is to pass the GTE. Australia’s Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement operates as an integrity measure. Its basic point is to ensure your student visa program is actually intended for study, as opposed to sneaking in a bit of ongoing residency in Australia.

The GTE test is a way for the government to siphon out applicants who are using the student visa program for motives ulterior to gaining a quality education in Australia. It’s a ‘Do you really care about learning’ kind of test.

As an applicant you need to show (provide documentary proof) that you are coming to Australia on a genuine pilgrimage for knowledge and wisdom. You will need to provide a personal statement (in English, Google translate will help you out) addressing the GTE requirements.

With your application, you’ll need to attach a written statement along with supporting documents. If your statement is generic (don’t be boring) and doesn’t have documentary evidence, your application won’t fair too well on assessment.

Another factor that comes into play on the GTE is the personal circumstances of an applicant. This is assessed based on some of the following requirements:

Circumstances in home country/country of residence; this includes reasons for not studying in home if a similar course is available there, economic circumstances, political and/or civil unrest in home country.
Potential circumstances in Australia; level of knowledge of proposed course and education provider, previous study/qualifications, planned accommodation arrangements, and financial capacity.
Value of the course to the applicant future; Consistency of the course with applicant’s education level, expected remuneration in home country which could be gained using the qualifications from study.
Applicant’s immigration history; past visa applications for Australia or other countries (i.e. past visa rejections/cancellations). Why did your past applications fall short?

FAILURE TO MEET ACADEMIC QUALIFICATION

Now this requirement is to be expected. To qualify for a student visa, you’re going to have to qualify as a student. This translates to: you’ll need to have successfully completed the required academic level to study further.

Academic entry requirements (besides evidence of English language skills) will vary depending on the course, level of education, and university you want to study at.

They vary from one university institution to the next. So, make sure you carefully read the course information (always the fine print!) on their website to see if you qualify.

A few tips for if you don’t qualify. You should sift through the internet to find a course/uni that will. OR, if you need to meet the requirements, and you really really really want that university and/or course, you should consider taking a Foundation or Bridging course. This is basically an intensive course that will help you meet entry requirements, usually lasting one year. And let’s be honest. One year is so doable if it’s that golden ticket to your dream exchange program.

Generally speaking, entry requirements for different levels of study include:

• English language: Achieve the required English score.
• Undergraduate: Have an overseas equivalent to an Australian Senior Secondary Certificate of Education. Some undergrad courses also have specific pre-requisite subjects.
• Postgraduate: Have (satisfactorily) completed an undergraduate degree. Your institution may take research ability or relevant work experience into consideration so that’s always worth a shot.

Assuming you’ve ticked all these boxes and have confirmed enrolment with your university, you’ll be issued an electronic Confirmation of Enrolment (eCoE) certificate. If not, then make sure you heckle them for it! When you craft your application, don’t forget to attach your (eCoE) certificate!

FAILURE TO MEET ENGLISH REQUIREMENTS

Rule of thumb: If you’re planning to study in an English-speaking country, you’re going to have to speak English. This means that you’re going to have to meet the English language requirements to get your student visa approved.

For many applicants, you’ll have to provide your English language test results alongside your visa application. This condition is intended for international students exchanging from non-English speaking countries.

Now, not all language proficiencies are created equal. The English language skill required of you will vary from one university to the next. This can also vary from the skill level required for your student visa application. Make sure you check both the English requirements on the Department of Home Affairs and your university website to find out which English language level is required of you.

Either way, you’ll want to ace the IELTS or an equivalent test. What happens once you’ve improved your proficiency and achieved the required score? You’ve ticked off another box and are on your way to passing the biggest test: getting your visa approved!

Make sure you provide documentary evidence when you apply for your visa; evidence of an acceptable English language test score, and evidence that you fall within an exempt category for your university of choice.

YOU HAVE INSUFFICIENT FUNDS

You know the saying money doesn’t matter? Well it does if you want to buy a yacht. And it definitely does when it comes to getting your student visa approved. So if you’re planning to get that yacht, or in the nearer future that visa approved (assumedly a yes?), then you’re going to have to meet certain financial requirements.

And the government’s not going to take no for an answer. So, show them the money. Because money is one of the main reasons the Department of Immigration and Border Protection (DIBP) refuses applications.

The DIBP wants anyone applying for a student visa to prove their ability to finance their studies in Australia. So as an applicant you’ll have to make sure you can provide documents that prove your financial stability and ability to pay your way through your exchange.

So, what’ll it cost? What’s the damage? Currently, students must show credibility of an annual living expense of around $AUD20,000 but this is always subject to changes (typically in an upward direction).

For those of you aspiring students out there, you’re going to need documentary proof that proves you have this level of money to play with. Time to start saving folks. Because if you have insufficient funds in your bank account your student visa is going to be unceremoniously rejected.

As an international student, you will need to demonstrate proof of genuine access to the required funds for your exchange program in Australia. Some examples of how you can provide evidence of genuine access include:

Evidence that another person or business is providing funds, including evidence of your relationship, identity documents of the person providing said funds, or proof that the business is still operating. Imaginary friends and dead businesses can’t supply you with funds.

If you’re relying on a deposit, you will have to explain any recent and ongoing deposits (including wages).

If you have a tertiary loan to cover your tuition and/or living expenses, you should provide evidence of the terms and total amount of the loan that will be disbursed.

If you’re relying on some other type of loan you will need to show proof of collateral used, terms of agreement, and ability to cover ongoing costs. The best evidence of genuine access is full disbursement.

YOU DON’T HAVE ACCEPTABLE HEALTH, OVERSEAS STUDENT HEALTH COVER (OSHC) OR WELFARE ARRANGEMENTS

As a student visa applicant, you’ll have to go through some health checks to make sure you’re alive and well for your student exchange in Oz. This will depend on a few factors, for instance, the level of tuberculosis risk in your country. For some reason the Australian government doesn’t find tuberculosis so desirable.

Medical examinations are required for a temporary visa application, so you’ll want to check out the Department of Home Affairs’ required health examinations before you send off your student visa application.

Also, student visa applicants must have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). This will provide medical and hospital insurance in Australia and must cover the duration of your stay. If you don’t have OSHC you’re not just at a health risk! You risk having your visa rejected. Do not pass go, do not collect $200.

So, who’s responsible for your health cover? Well your OSHC can be arranged by either your education provider or yourself. It’s yours for the picking.

If it is supplied by your education provider, you’ll need to document the name of your insurance provider, the beginning and end date of your policy, and the terms and conditions of your policy. And, if you arrange coverage yourself, you’ll need to include the policy number in your student visa application. Don’t forget it!

For students under 18, there are a few added precautions. The Department of Home Affairs requires students to have adequate welfare arrangements approved by their education provider. So, if you’re underage, make sure you find a certified student accommodation provider for under 18’s. Your provider will be responsible for issuing you a Confirmation of Appropriate Accommodation and Welfare (CAAW) letter.

PAST MISDEEDS

This is kind of an obvious one, so we’ll keep it short and punchy. If you’ve ever tried to enter a country in the past without any real plans to attend a university, your misdeeds will be on record.

Australian authorities will be able to access this information and reject visa applications on the basis of past misconduct. So, if you’ve got any shady immigration history or failed applications owing to ingenuine entrance attempts, watch out. Your visa is likely to be rejected.

If you fall into this category, there’s not really much you can do except cross your fingers, pray, and make use of every possible avenue to prove you that this time you’re a genuine entrant. Here’s hoping you are!

Your character also falls into this section. This is all to do with you meeting the DIBP character requirements. Everyone, student or otherwise, who wants to enter Australia will be assessed against character requirements.

Criminal history just isn’t a visa selling point. You may be asked to provide police certificates for each country you have lived in for 12+ months over the past 10 years (since turning 16).

INCORRECT OR INCOMPLETE DOCUMENTS

Finally, when it comes to the ‘failed visa’ department, one of the biggest, and need we add pointless, failures is not getting your documents in order. Get your affairs in order people!

Organisation is key to making sure you complete all the visa application requirements and provide all substantiating documents to support your claims. Something as simple as forgetting a health clearance document, or as little as forgetting to include a policy code, can make or break your visa application.

It’s worth trawling through the Department of Home Affair’s website to ensure you include every little document and detail necessary for a successful visa application. Take the time to go over your application with a fine-tooth comb and make sure you correct any mistakes or fill in any missing information on your application.

Being painstakingly Type A really can determine how your student visa application fairs with the Home Office. We’ve covered most of the stuff already, but to make life easier for yourself, cast an eye over the Department of Immigration and Border Protection Checklist:

• Birth Certificate.
• Passport identity page and each page that has a visa label and immigration stamps for any countries.
• National Identity Card.
• All pages of the Household Registration Book.
• A Curriculum Vitae certified by local authorities.

Valid electronic Certificate of Enrolment (CoE) for courses being undertaken
A statement to satisfy the decision maker that you have a genuine intention to stay in Australia i.e. Your circumstances in your home country, potential circumstances in Australia, value of the course to your future, & details of any previous travels to Australia.

Evidence (scanned and uploaded original documents in colour) of qualifications and associated transcripts of any courses completed and/or attempted and/or currently studying.

Evidence of any scholarship(s) awarded for your studies in Australia.

Valid Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the proposed duration of the student visa.

If under 18: Parent consent letters, signed and witnessed.

Confirmation of Appropriate Accommodation and Welfare Arrangements (CAAW), linked with your CoE.

A signed financial undertaking from the individual(s) providing the funds, outlining the relationship between you and the financial sponsor(s), including either: Evidence of funds & genuine access to funds OR evidence of annual income.

English language test certificate that was taken less than 2 years before date of lodgement of application.

Criminal History

Rejection reasons:

Failure in providing strong character requirements is also one of the Australian student visa refusal reasons. The Australian government is straight in its criminal policies. They will ask for your criminal history after 16 years of age, and it’s something that appears on your criminal record that could become an Australian visa rejection reason.

How to avoid this mistake/overcome this problem:

Avoid this problem by providing your character certificate. It ensures that you are a reliable person, don’t have a history of 12 months or longer imprisonment, and were never involved in a sexually based crime. This is not necessarily a mistake, but you can be free of this hustle if you have a clean criminal history.

Rejection In Interview

Rejection reasons:

Another popular Australian student visa refusal reason is the rejection during an interview with Immigration and Border Protection Department. This board assesses your honesty regarding your stay in Australia. But failure to give proper reasons and statements can cause your visa rejection.

How to avoid this mistake/overcome this problem:

This is not a big deal. You can refrain from this by providing proper answers. Providing a correct explanation about your stay in Australia and the purpose of going there will also help.

Past Immigration History

Rejection reasons:

Your immigration history might also cause trouble and leads to your visa rejection. Your past Australian tourist visa denial can also be one of the Australian student visa rejection reasons.

How to avoid this mistake/overcome this problem:

You can ignore this by going through your immigration history, and if there is some kind of history like that, then it’s better you not apply for a student visa. Immigration history should be clear and shouldn’t contradict your temporary stay in Australia according to the student visas.

FAQ

Can I get an Australian student visa after refusal?
Yes, you can apply for an Australian student visa after the first refusal, but make sure you avoid the mistakes you have made previously. Contact a reliable immigration setup like Student Portal, as you have a refusal history now.

What are the chances of Australian student visa rejection?
After the pandemic, the Australian student visa rejection rate is still low. Therefore, the chances of your visa rejection are also lower. If you have all the documents completed and appropriate intention when applying for an Australian student visa, then you don’t need to get frightened, just go for it.

How soon can I apply for a visa after rejection in Australia?
You can reapply after 24 days for the student visa in Australia but after filing an appeal for the Administrative Appeals Tribunal. Be sure you avoid all the Australian student visa refusal reasons.

How to Avoid Australian Student Visa Refusal

There are five tips that you can use to avoid student visa refusal.

Complete all your documentation before applying.

• Be sure to have sufficient friends.
• Be sure that you have an OSHC or welfare arrangements
• Try to have no past visa refusal history.
• You should contact an immigration agent so that you don’t make mistakes that become one of the Australian student visa rejection reasons.

Australian visa rejection rate is also low for Humanitarian visa entrants as per the statistics of 2016.

Here we will give you some important tips on writing a GTE Statement
Make sure you include all the relevant information
Did you join a seminar or training that is somewhat related to your proposed course in Australia? If yes, it will be helpful for you to include them.

Make it personalized
You must show that your proposed course in Australia will be beneficial for your personal development and future career plan in your home country or a third country.

Focus on the relevant emergency issues
Try to show how your proposed course will equip you with the necessary knowledge and skills to solve the emerging issues in your surrounding. You need to focus on what you will get from your proposed course in Australia, and how it will complement your previous qualifications and experiences. On the other hand, you must also cover the obstacles and challenges you currently have to solve the issues due to lack of the necessary skills and knowledge that you can only acquire by studying in Australia.

Choose a Relevant Course
Though your migration agent will help you choose the relevant course, it is always suggested you already have a decision in your mind. The agent is more or less involved in choosing the affordable course provider to you than the course.

Having educational background in humanities and applying to study science abroad may not help your case. You got to have relevant educational background and assure the visa officer that you are genuinely going abroad for quality higher overseas education.

Do Your Homework
This includes selecting your course/provider at your end, showing funds and arranging all the relevant documents. Detailed information is available across the internet as to what all you’ll need for a particular country.

Keeping copies of bank accounts and qualification handy can help you a great deal. Keep it systematic and simple.

Write a Great Statement of Purpose
Your agent may, however, be able to assist you with your SoP, it is a must that you give them details about your educational history and work experience, if any.

It is suggested to write the SoP draft on your own, and later on getting it edited professionally. This approach has worked best in most of the cases.

Your Statement of Purpose will hold great importance in your application, as it may make or break the things. If you are able to convince your visa officer through your Statement of Purpose, half of your work is nearly done.

English Language Proficiency
As every program requires different English language proficiency, it is suggested you try to score maximum possible. The more, the better. Scoring great in your English language proficiency test will open a lot of other opportunities to you later than just study visa.

Practice hard and score high!

Please note that nothing guarantees you the visa 100%, including the aforementioned tips. It is solely on the discretion of your visa officer to consider your application and grant visa. You must make sure you provide all the supporting documents along with your application. The aforementioned are just the tips to make your case stronger.

Have a clear career plan
We know that modern lives are very complicated, but the Immigration will be satisfied that you genuinely intend to study in Australia for its quality education, and that you will stay only temporarily if they see that you have a career plan. For example, if you state that you will open your own business in your home country upon the completion of your Australian studies, you could provide information on how you have been preparing for it so far. It can be a little step that you take such as a discussion with your family or your participation in a seminar regarding entrepreneurship, or as significant as evidence of property ownership in which you plan to build your business premises.

State why you think you are eligible for the visa and that you should be granted a Student Visa
You could complete your already compelling statement with how you have met each of the requirements for the grant of a Student Visa, including financial requirement, immigration history, character, health insurance, and health.

Therefore it is very important for you to choose the right course in Australia. You may think that you are choosing the right course and providing enough evidence, but, without giving the right evidence, you may end up with a Student Visa Refusal!

A rich cultural heritage, breathtaking natural beauty and world-class higher education options make New Zealand one of the best places to study abroad, with international students coming from far and wide to study in the country’s eight universities every year.

New Zealand sits in the Pacific Ocean, comprising the North Island, the South Island, and over 700 smaller islands.

Studying in New Zealand as an international student is full of opportunities for unique experiences.

It is a popular choice for international students due to its welcoming and friendly population. It also has a high standard of living and was ranked the Happiest Country in the World in 2020.

In 2019, New Zealand was also named the world’s second most peaceful country by the Global Peace Index.

If your dream is to study and work in New Zealand, you’ll be glad to know that the benefits of studying in New Zealand include its excellent work-life balance and opportunities post-graduation. These include work experience opportunities in technology, travel, and government.

You can also work alongside your studies in the country’s flourishing hospitality industry.

Students can explore live music, theatre, film, dance, free festivals and international sports fixtures.

Most cities and towns are relatively small and uncrowded and you’re never far from beaches, parks, and walking trails.

Studying in New Zealand

New Zealand scholarships for international students

University application process

How to get a New Zealand student visa

Student life

International student life in New Zealand is full of great experiences. Students benefit from large co-curricular programmes including sports, the arts, and additional learning. Explore forests, snow-capped mountains, sandy beaches, lakes and fjords outside of class and learn more about the country.

There’s something for everyone in New Zealand, including experiencing Maori culture and seeing landscapes made famous in popular movies like Lord of the Rings and the Hobbit. You can also explore Abel Tasman National Park and its wildlife, Franz Josef Glacier, the Waitomo Glowworm Caves and Fiordland National Park.

If you prefer cities, the capital city Wellington is home to the National Botanic Gardens, Wellington Harbour, and the Museum of New Zealand.
Preparing and living in New Zealand

International student’s guide to New Zealand’s healthcare system
How to open a bank account in NZ as an international student?

Working in New Zealand

Working while studying in New Zealand

What is New Zealand’s post-study work visa?

Popular cities

Wellington – As New Zealand’s capital city, Wellington is vibrant, welcoming, and full of historic architecture spanning 150 years.

It is located on the Cook Strait of the North Island and is fairly small compared to other cities in the region.

It is also home to our partner university, Victoria University of Wellington!

There is plenty to explore, including the national harbour, urban beaches and many free and inexpensive museums.

It is a great and budget-friendly place to discover outside of class, making it a popular student destination.

Hamilton – Hamilton is located in the Waikato region of New Zealand’s northern island.

It is known for its stunning botanical gardens and bustling nightlife.

The city’s Victoria Street has a broad range of bars and restaurants, making student life rich and culturally diverse.

Moreover, Hamilton is home to our partner, the University of Waikato!

It is also a great place to catch national and international sporting events including rugby and cricket.

Auckland – As New Zealand’s largest city, Auckland is home to over one million people and the world’s largest population of Polynesian individuals.

Its Maori inhabitants form the fabric of its history and culture, making it a vibrant and diverse place to study and explore.

With an international reputation for universities with courses such as environmental management and marine biology, the city sits on two distinct bodies of water.

It is also home to several world-recognised attractions like the 60-story Sky Tower.

Christchurch – Christchurch is the largest city in the South Island and a popular destination for many international students.

With a reputation for its incredible architecture, unique city road plan, and strong communities, it is an amazing place to explore.

It is the ideal place to study abroad for art enthusiasts and students due to its strong street art culture, as well as being home to the Canterbury Museum’s Rise/Oi You! Street art exhibition.

The museum is also home to the world’s largest collection of artwork by international street artist Banksy.

Dunedin – With its Scottish-infused architecture and culture, Dunedin was where the Free Church of Scotland was founded in the 1800s.

It has a large population of people with Scottish ancestry and maintains much of its Scottish charm.

It is a hot spot for students due to its incredible array of wildlife, including albatross, sea lions and rare yellow-eyed penguins.

Institutions in the area have world-renowned courses in veterinary science, biology and zoology.

Not only that, but every single one of New Zealand’s universities is included in the 2019 QS World Rankings, with the Victoria University of Wellington in the top 1% across an impressive 19 different subject areas.

Jan/July
Intakes

Annual Tuition Fees
NZ $22,000 – NZ $32,000

​ Monthly Living Costs
NZ $2968.36
​

1. Living costs checklist

The cost of living is the amount of money needed to cover your day-to-day basic expenses – New Zealand’s average living cost is £670.05 for a single person, which is 7.61% higher than in the UK.

However, exactly how much money you’ll need to study abroad in New Zealand will depend on your lifestyle and preferred accommodation.

For example, if you’re hoping to live on campus in an en-suite room, going out every night of the week, you’ll need to account for having higher living costs.

But whatever your lifestyle, here are the basic things you need to consider when working out whether or not you can afford New Zealand living expenses:

Housing
Food
Taxes
Healthcare

2. Student living costs in New Zealand

It’s all fair and well talking about the average cost of living in New Zealand, but what about the specific expenses that come with being an international student?

First things first, let’s talk about tuition fees. As is the case in any country, fees will differ depending on the subject and the level of study (BA/MA etc) and international students are expected to pay more than domestic students.

Despite this, the average tuition fee is lower than that of the UK, with students studying abroad in New Zealand paying between £10,000 and £16,000 per year, excluding the administration and student services fees required by some universities.

Next up is accommodation. You could opt to live in a shared flat or private rental, but considering most universities offer very affordable halls of residence accommodation for an average of £104 per week, it makes sense to stay on campus in the first instance, as you’ll also save on travel costs.

Other expenses you’ll have to consider include:

Weekly food shop
Phone bill
Utilities
Academic supplies
Transport
Gym membership
Leisure costs

Remember, in order to study abroad in New Zealand, you’ll need to prove you have sufficient funds to support yourself for the first year. This means you’ll need at least NZ$15,000 (approximately £7,529) before you can even start thinking about comparing gym memberships.

3. How to fund your studies in New Zealand

One of the most common concerns when it comes to talking about the cost of living in New Zealand for international students is how to go about funding your studies.

Luckily, there are lots of different scholarship options available to help you fund your studies abroad so be sure to check your university’s website to see if you’re eligible to apply for any.

Even if you can’t see anything advertised online, it’s always worth emailing or calling the university to see if there’s anything they can do. You’ll never know if you don’t ask!

Another big advantage of studying in New Zealand is that — unlike in many other countries — international students are allowed to take up part-time work while on a student visa, meaning you’ll have the option to earn some extra spending money if need be.

What’s more, international students who choose to study in New Zealand can stay and work any job in the country for up to a full year after graduating, or up to two years if your job is directly related to your degree, so it makes sense to get on the job ladder early.

4. Most affordable universities in New Zealand

Student living costs in New Zealand will vary depending on which city you choose – if it’s value for money you’re after, we’ve got you covered.

The University of Waikato in Hamilton and the University of Canterbury in Christchurch are two of the most affordable universities for international students, offering cheaper average tuition fees and accommodation options.

More generally speaking, Christchurch, Dunedin and Hamilton are the best cities for affordable living costs, while the bigger centres of Auckland, Wellington and Queenstown will all require a bigger budget.

What types of student visas are available?

At present, you will have a few different options when it comes to choosing the visa that suits your requirements. Mostly, this choice will depend on your course, its duration and your needs as a student.

If you are unsure about what visa you need, check out our overview of each option below.

Fee-paying student visa

You need to apply for a fee-paying student visa if you are pursuing a full-term course with a duration of more than three months at a New Zealand university.

With this type of visa, you can work for up to 20 hours a week during school weeks and full time during holidays.

Pathway student visa

Alternative, you can apply for a pathway student visa to pursue more than one full term course. You can choose up to three consecutive full-term courses and stay in New Zealand for 5 years to finish them with this visa type.

Exchange student visa

You need to apply for an exchange student visa if you plan to go to New Zealand to pursue a pre-approved student exchange program at a university recognised by the New Zealand Qualifications Authorities. The duration of your course can be a maximum of 4 years.

Foreign government-supported student visa

You can apply for a foreign government-supported student visa if you plan to study a full-time course with a duration of more than 3 months and less than 4 years. Your educational expenses need to be covered by a scholarship or a loan from a foreign country’s government.

Note: If you are going to study a course with a duration of less than 3 months, you don’t need to get a study visa. You can just use your visitor visa in this case.

How long you can stay on a Post Study Work Visa

The length of your Post Study Work Visa will depend on the qualification you completed in New Zealand. If you completed a master’s or doctoral level qualification in New Zealand, and studied here for at least 30 weeks you can work in New Zealand for 3 years.

If you completed a qualification at level 8 or below your work visa will be for the same length of time as your study. We will use your offer of place to work this out. For example if your offer of place says that your study will take 32 weeks, your visa will be for 32 weeks.

If you fail a course or otherwise take longer to complete your study than what is stated on your offer of place this will not extend the length of your visa. If the actual length of your study is different from the offer of place, we may request further information from your education provider.

You cannot get a second Post Study Work Visa if you have already had one.

Getting a Post Study Work Visa after completing post-graduate study
If you complete a post-graduate degree straight after completing your undergraduate degree, you may be able to apply for a Post Study Work Visa that is valid for up to 3 years.

Getting a Post Study Work Visa after submitting a doctoral degree thesis
If you studied towards a doctoral degree level qualification, you can apply for a Post Study Work Visa after submitting your thesis.

Finding a job
New Zealand’s job market might be different from what you are used to. The Live and Work New Zealand website has information that can help you prepare for finding a job in New Zealand.

Students will continue to be eligible for post-study work rights if they are studying a bachelor’s degree, bachelor honours degree, postgraduate diploma, master’s or doctoral degree that they have studied full time in New Zealand for a minimum of 30 weeks.

Non-degree international students will only be able to qualify for a post-study work visa if their qualification is related to an occupation on the new Green list, which seeks to fill in the skills gaps required to mitigate New Zealand’s skill shortages.

The Green List includes 85 occupations, which will provide international students with a streamlined and prioritised pathway to residency incentivising high-skilled healthcare, engineers, trade and tech sector workers to relocate to New Zealand over a long period.

Bringing your partner and children
Your partner can apply for a work visa and your dependent children can study fee-free as domestic students.

Latest Updates:
Nov 7, 2022: As per the recent changes in policy for obtaining a post-study work permit in New Zealand states that the applicants must:

Have studied a Level 7 degree qualification or,
Should have studied non-degree qualification below Level 7, but the qualification must be listed on the Qualifications Eligible for a Post Study Work Visa list.
Having a job related to study subjects would be mandatory to prove if applying through the non-degree Level 7 option.

Those applicants who applied for their student visa on or before May 11, 2022, would be eligible for a post-study work permit in New Zealand, even if their qualifications are not enlisted on the Qualifications Eligible for a Post-Study Work Visa list. But, it is mandatory to have an acceptable qualification while applying for the PSW in New Zealand.

Documents required for the admission application process

If you want to apply to any university in New Zealand, you need to meet certain requirements. You need to submit some of the supporting documents while applying. By checking the below-provided Checklist for Newzealand, organize all your documents before applying for admission to any University in New Zealand.

Passport – A valid passport must be submitted. Photo Copies of the passport’s first and last pages

Photographs – Your Passport Size Photographs must be submitted.

Application Form – It is the entry form that you need to fill carefully to get admission to your selected university. You can fill out the admission application forms online or offline depending on their availability.

English proficiency exam scores – For any of the courses in New Zealand, the candidates should take the English language tests to prove their efficiency in English.

Competitive Exam Scores – For any admission to Newzealand Universities, you need to take some entrance exams like GRE/GMAT/SAT. Depending on the course you are applying to, you need to take the respective exam and need to send the xerox copies of the Scores supporting the required entrance exam.
For any undergraduate courses, you should take SAT Exam
For the postgraduate course, you need to take the GRE Exam.
To pursue any business program in Newzealand Universities candidates should take the GMAT Exam.

Academic Certificates – Along with the application form, you need to submit the academic certificates and degree in support of your educational qualifications. The Academic Certificates include

• 10th Grade Transcripts and Certificate.
• 12th Grade Transcripts and Certificate.
• Bachelor’s Transcripts and Degree (for Masters or PG Programs Only).
• Master’s Transcripts and Degree (if available).
• Diploma Transcripts and Certificate (if available).
• Other Diplomas or Certificates (if available).

Statement of Purpose – The statement of purpose acts as an introduction to who you are, what you have done, and why you are interested in a given program. Your SOP must include:
a clear display of interest in the study program to which you are applying,
a description of prior academic and professional achievements,
Explanation of how the specific program matches your long-term career goals, and
a conclusion tying this all together by highlighting why you deserve a seat in the university in New Zealand.

Two letters of recommendation – Universities in New Zealand ask for recommendations of former professors and mentors into account when deciding whether or not to offer admission to you. Universities strongly suggest that you should request such letters of reference from professors or Managers with whom you have worked very closely.

Experience Certificates – If you are applying for any Business Program you must have experience in the relevant field to get admission to any Business School in Newzealand. The major documents in proof of work experience that include in the Checklist for Newzealand are
Latest Joining Letter.
Latest Salary Slip.
Employment Certificates from all Previous Employers.
Experience letter.
Any Other Documents (Extra Curricular Activities)
After submitting your application wait for the university to verify your documents. If everything goes well, they will send you the offer letter.
Language Proficiency Tests
International students must have to pass any of the required English language proficiency tests if they are planning to study in New Zealand.

IELTS
Internet-based TOEFL
Paper-based TOEFL
Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English (CAE)
Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE)
Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic

Language Proficiency Tests
International students must have to pass any of the required English language proficiency test if you are planning to study in New Zealand. IELTS or TOEFL or PTE is the most necessary admission requirement for all New Zealand courses.

International English Language Testing System (IELTS)
IELTS is the most widely accepted English language eligibility test for studies in New Zealand. IELTS scores required for different migration to NZ are: –

Category Minimum Score
Skilled Migrant 6.5
Business (Entrepreneur) 4
Parents 4
Residence from work 5 (with partner and children)

Both Bachelor courses and Master courses, an applicant must score a minimum of 6.5 in IELTS overall band score. Depending on courses and certain universities, New Zealand student visa IELTS requirements differ in scores for eligibility. The overall reading, writing and speaking scores should at least be 6.0 to get admission in good institutions.

Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
The TOEFL test measures the ability to speak and understand English among non-native English speaking international students. TOEFL test holds a great reputation that no other test has and can get you anywhere around the world. That means students need to prove their command of the language. TOEFL Threshold scores for a different level of Programs in New Zealand are: –

Program Level (1 – 10)

Updated Scores

Level 3

35 (writing score – 14)

Level 4 – 5

46 (writing score – 14)

Level 6 – 7

60 (writing score – 18)

Level 8 – 10

79 (writing score – 21)

TOEFL is a required eligibility criterion for education and immigration in New Zealand. The purpose of the visit to New Zealand determines the minimum eligibility score required for a certain occasion.

Pearson Test of English (PTE)
PTE has been the most recent addition in the English language proficiency tests list accepted in New Zealand. It is accepted by all New Zealand Universities and other tertiary educational institutions in the country.

PTE tests are considered prestigious and are widely recognized around the world. The examinations are used to evaluate an individual’s ability to speak, write and read in English. PTE Threshold score for different types of Visas in New Zealand are-

Visa Type Overall PTE Academic Store
Skilled Migrant 58
Religious workers, partners, and dependent children 36
Parent Resident Visa At least 29 in two of the skills or overall 36
Entrepreneur 29
A minimum PTE score of 50 is accepted for undergraduate courses and 64 for Masters Courses as eligibility to study in new zealand for international students. World’s largest examining body Edexcel is behind the administration of this test.

1. Student visa New Zealand: The prep work

Firstly, as soon as you get a course offer from your university, start planning and preparing. Ultimately, if you apply early, you can overcome any potential issues quickly so you can get back to focusing on your studies.

To get started, request an application form. Currently, you can do this in person by heading to a New Zealand embassy. Alternatively, you can complete your entire application online. Most people find applying online the most straightforward option.

As part of your preparations, make sure you’re applying at least eight weeks before you plan to come to New Zealand. However, it will pay off to get all your paperwork ready much before this. You are much more likely to get a quicker decision if you have all your documents to hand, so read through all the information carefully and obtain all the necessary certificates, scans and copies well in advance.

2. Pay any New Zealand student visa fees

As part of your application, you must pay the appropriate fees. Presently, New Zealand student visa fees differ depending on how you apply and where you’re applying from.

Usually, the most common visa that international students use is the “fee-paying student visa”. This costs around NZ $295 (that’s roughly GBP 150 or $200 US Dollars).

But it’s sometimes cheaper to apply for visas via post depending on your nationality. Therefore, you can use fee-checking tools online to make sure you aren’t paying more than you need.

Remember that you won’t get a refund of your fees if your application is turned down. As a result, you should make sure you have all your details and documents available the first time around. If you are unsure about exactly which documents and information you need, check out our complete checklist below.

To make sure your application is approved, it’s vital to understand all the requirements asked of international students.

3. Understand all the visa requirements

During your application, you must be aware of the few essential New Zealand student visa requirements.

For a New Zealand study visa, you must receive a formal academic offer from an educational institution. This must be approved by the Ministry of Education in New Zealand, or a course approved by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority.

Either you or your guardian will need to provide evidence you can pay your tuition fees.

Usually, these are NZ $20,000-30,000 per year for international students. Alternatively, you’ll need to prove you’ve been offered a scholarship or grant by your chosen institution, to cover these costs.

You’ll also have to prove that you’ve got enough money to live whilst you’re in the country. Financial evidence can come from either yourself or a parent/guardian. But you’ll need at least NZ $15,000 to support yourself for the first year.

There are several other important New Zealand student visa requirements. For instance, you need; a copy of your air ticket home (or proof that you have enough money to buy one), a supporting letter, medical certificates and accommodation guarantees for anyone under 18.

4. The New Zealand student visa process: Steps to Success

There’s a fixed process for New Zealand study visa applications. Let’s take a look at some of the key steps.

Complete your application form carefully

Make sure you’ve accurately and fully entered all your information and provided scans or copies of all documents requested. This is a vital first step to that coveted New Zealand study visa, and an important part to get right.
Discuss potential issues as soon as possible

To receive a New Zealand student visa, you have to be of “good character”. Ultimately, this means you should have no criminal convictions. If you have convictions and want to stay in New Zealand for more than 24 months, police clearances may be necessary.

In this case, a representative from the New Zealand government will help you figure out the process. As this can add time to your application, it’s best to raise any potential issues as soon as possible.

Be prepared for an interview

As part of the application process, you may have to attend an interview. This is used to assess your eligibility for the New Zealand study visa. Often, the interview takes place over a video or phone call.

These types of interviews are not designed to trick or catch you out. Mostly, an officer will ask a series of questions about you and your studies. For instance, they will cover where you want to study, what you’re learning, what your plans are and any future career aspirations.

While interviews can be difficult, this visa interview is easy if you prepare properly. You can prepare by reviewing the reasons why you want to study in New Zealand. Also, be sure about where your finances are coming from and your course.

To succeed in the interview, answer these questions slowly and truthfully and make sure you explain yourself clearly.

5. Final steps: Awaiting your decision

Usually, the New Zealand student visa process takes around four to five weeks from start to finish. Therefore, you need to leave enough time before your course begins to get everything sorted. We recommend applying with at least two months to spare.

If more information or clarifications are required, the New Zealand Immigration department will let you know, but at this point. Also, If you applied online, you’ll usually receive an eVisa once your application has been approved.

Print this out and keep it on your mobile, so you can show it easily at the border when you arrive. You can also ask immigration services to put a label on your passport. But this comes with additional charges.

If you’re planning on studying in New Zealand, there are plenty of resources available for organising your trip and finding out more about student life in New Zealand. It’s a truly fantastic country and a great destination for international students.

Even before you start your New Zealand visa application, check that you have the following items. Failure to provide these can slow your application process down and leave you with little time to correct errors if they come up.

As a result, get these documents ready as soon as you receive your university offer.

• A passport that is valid for at least 3 months after the end of your course.
• Two passport size photographs of your head and shoulders.
• Letter of acceptance from a university authorised by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority.
• A letter from the police department of your home country as proof of your character.
• Bank statements proving that you have enough money to pay for tuition and to support yourself during your studies.
• Medical examination reports testing for infectious diseases.
• Medical insurance documents proving that you are covered for the duration of your stay.

Study in reputed universities

The universities in New Zealand rank among the best in the world. The country has eight well known universities among which the University of Auckland is the most popular. Below is the QS ranking of New Zealand universities for 2023:

Name of University-Ranking

The University of Auckland-87
University of Otago-217

Victoria University of Wellington-275

University of Canterbury-284

Massey University-292

Lincoln University-368

University of Waikato-331

Auckland University of Technology-486

The universities here take care to admit a limited number of students so that the teacher student ratio is of the desired level. The curriculum in the universities is well balanced with equal emphasis of practical and theoretical knowledge.

Work while you study

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during their course and full time during vacations. The pre-conditions for working while studying in New Zealand are the student must be in a full-time course and the course must be worth 120 credits. The pay is good and can help students meet some percentage of their expenses. Those who are pursuing a master’s program or a PhD can work full-time.

Stay back after your education in New Zealand

You can stay back in New Zealand for up to three years depending on the course you are studying. Staying back after your education allows you to look for jobs in New Zealand. You can apply for any of the following post-study visas once you finish your studies:

The open visa which is available for all international students and is valid for 12 months.

The employer assisted visa which allows students to work in a specific job for two additional years after the open visa expires.

For permanent residency or PR in New Zealand, you can apply for the Skilled Migrant Visa after your studies.

Excellent quality of education

When you choose to study in New Zealand, you will be assured of excellent quality of education thanks to the strict quality control in public universities. The universities are known for excellent teaching methods, well-equipped labs and well-qualified teachers. The degrees obtained in New Zealand universities are on par with the degrees from the US, the UK, Australia or Canada. The degrees are recognised all over the world.

Wide variety of courses with focus on innovation

The universities in New Zealand offer a wide range of courses in a variety of subjects so that you can choose what appeals to your interests. The education system here puts emphasis on innovation and research. The universities here focus on research and development in various fields such as agriculture, engineering, healthcare, physics, geology, computer science, astronomy etc.

Affordable tuition and living expenses

The tuition fee for universities in New Zealand is lesser compared to other popular study abroad destinations such as the US, the UK or Canada. International students can apply for scholarships provided by the universities and the government. These scholarships are awarded based on previous and present academic performance.

The table below has the average tuition fees you are expected to pay for courses.
Course – Fee range (per annum)

Bachelor’s degree – NZ$ 20,000 to 32,000
Post graduate degree – NZ$ 26,000 to 37,000
Medicine – NZ$ 30,000-50,000

Safe and secure environment

As we mentioned earlier, New Zealand offers a safe and secure environment for international students. The country has a low crime rate and the people here are warm and friendly. International students are looked after well by New Zealand universities that are bound by a code of conduct imposed by the government.

Diverse student population

Students from all over the world come to study in New Zealand. This gives you the opportunity to interact with a diverse group of people, a variety of cultures and backgrounds. This will improve your social skills, knowledge and appreciation of other people and cultures.

Exciting outdoor life

New Zealand has a lot of potential to give you an exciting outdoor life. The green hills, sandy beaches, the rainforests and the snow capped mountains give you numerous options to explore and experience the natural beauty of the country.

Globally recognised qualifications

All eight universities of New Zealand consistently rank high in QS World Rankings* and Times Higher Education Rankings, and qualifications from any of these are accredited across the globe, opening doors to prospects everywhere. The New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) also ensures that institutions are registered to enrol international students and comply with qualifications standards.

Innovation and research

New Zealand provides abundant opportunities in research for students. The country boasts of highly experienced faculty, well-equipped laboratories, access to latest technology, equipments, and opportunities. Its innovative spirit has made it a hub of new technologies, research and development in various fields such as healthcare, physics, geology, engineering, astronomy, computer science, agriculture, etc. Add to it, the Nobel prizes that the country has in its kitty simply reinstate the significance and vast scope of research in New Zealand.

Great scope for PhD scholars

Along with the vast research opportunities, as a PhD student you would enjoy additional privileges. You’ll be eligible to pay the same tuition fee as locals and unlike other degree students, you can work full-time during your studies. Need we say more?

Safe and peaceful

New Zealand ranks second on the Global Peace Index 2018*, which speaks about the social tolerance and political stability of the Kiwi democracy. As an international student, you’ll have the same rights as your Kiwi counterparts.

Natural beauty

Studying is made easier and more enjoyable when it’s done in a beautiful location, and New Zealand definitely delivers in that category. The country is full of natural wonders to admire and explore with your new friends. Both the North and South Island offer beaches, waterfalls and much more.

You can get a ferry between the two islands, making all the beauty spots in New Zealand accessible. Your sightseeing adventures could take you anywhere from the rapids of Huka Falls, to the glowworm-covered Waitomo Caves or even Milford Sound, which is arguably the most scenic spot in New Zealand.

Adventure around every corner

As well at there being plenty to see, there’s also so much to do when you study abroad in New Zealand, whether you’re looking for something active, cultural or adrenaline rush-inducing. Take to the water for kayaking, white water rafting and jet boat rides, or make the most of the country’s many picturesque hiking trails.

There are also spots for mountain biking, skiing, surfing, horse riding and bungee jumping, meaning there are lots of opportunities to experience something new or spend time doing something you love.

In terms of cultural activities, there are many museums across New Zealand for you to learn about the country’s history. You’ll also find art galleries housing contemporary art, historic collections, and a mix of local and international treasures.

Culture and standard of living

Residents of New Zealand benefit from an exceptional lifestyle thanks to the peaceful and friendly atmosphere and overall relaxed way of life. It is considered a very welcoming place where people of all backgrounds can feel at home.

The general standard of living is very high in New Zealand. The country has some of the safest air in the world, with better environmental health than many other developed countries. The vast expanse of untouched nature also contributes to the country’s lack of air pollution, overall making its inhabitants happier and healthier.

New Zealand also invests heavily in its public transport system. Buses are the main mode of transport throughout the country, with the network being easy to navigate and utilising clean and modern vehicles. The government has even announced that NZ$50 million of funding will go towards helping councils fully decarbonise their public buses by 2035.

Low crime rates, accessible healthcare and consistent warm weather are also factors contributing to the high standard of living in New Zealand and the mental wellbeing of its residents.

New Zealand student visa rejection reasons

Despite the New Zealand student visa rejection rate is very low, the visa officers can still reject your student visa for some valid reason. Hence, it is good to know the reasons for visa rejections, so that you can avoid them. Here we have listed some of the common reasons why your student visa could be rejected for New Zealand.

Poor Visa Interview
The student visa interview is one of the best chances to communicate with the visa officers face to face and explain to them why you want to study in New Zealand. If you provide unnecessary or vague information, fail to communicate properly with the questioner etc, the visa application will be refused. You should present your best self during the interview. You should possess significant knowledge about the university you are planning to enroll in, the course structure, and every other information that could be asked during the interview. This way the authorities would have confidence in you and your visa application will be approved.

Non-Fulfilment of English Proficiency Requirements
Students are required to provide their English language proficiency test scores and university offer letters for the student visa. Candidates should be careful to see the university requirements and visa requirements and apply for their student visa. IELTS and TOEFL are common English language tests that candidates can opt for. After successfully applying for the student visa a lot of times the candidate may be denied the student visa due to reasons that are notified to them.

Most universities abroad also require students to provide proof of their English proficiency by appearing for one of the many competitive examinations available. They include IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE. Candidates are required to check the English language proficiency requirement of their university and apply for the same. Authorities verifying your student visa application are very particular about your English language skills. Since the maximum of the communication, be it in the university or at the country level are done in English it is important that the student is comfortable with English.

Insufficient Funds for Study or Stay in New Zealand
If applicants are unable to provide evidence for their expenses, this may also prove to be a mjor reason for student visa rejection by New Zealand authorities. In order to avoid such gaps, applicants must submit their bank statements not more than 6 months old, the applicants can also give details of the guaranter – an immediate family member only. In case of a new bank account, applicants can also submit:

Education loan sanction letter from a recognised financial institution.
Stock transaction reports, or
Sale of property agreements.
Not Up To The Mark Visa Interview

Candidates should not fret as every country has in its discretionary powers to either reject or grant visas. Candidates whose visa applications have been rejected should only take this as a hurdle and not the end of their application. As a visa refused does not mean the candidate cannot apply again. He should see where his faults lie with his visa application and apply again after the window period established by the New Zealand visa authorities. However, we are going to elucidate some of the common mistakes that are often the reason for a candidate’s student visa being rejected and how to avoid them.

Need more tips related to Visa Application? Check out: Interview tips for student visa.

Inability to prove English proficiency
Most universities in New Zealand require students to present proof of their English proficiency by appearing for one of the many English tests available. They include IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE. Respective officers verifying your student visa application are very strict about your English language skills. Since the maximum amount of communication, be it at the university or the country level is done in English the student must be comfortable with English. If you are not able to convince visa officers with your English language skills, your visa application might be rejected.

Inadequate documents
In the student visa application process, you are required to submit several documents. You should thoroughly check the official website of the New Zealand student visa page for all the documents you are required to submit. You should strictly provide all the documents mentioned and in order. If you miss any of them or try to submit a false document, it could lead to the cancellation of your visa application.

Intentions behind going to New Zealand
Another student visa rejection reason for New Zealand is the inability to provide the needed justification for your purpose and conditions of the planned travel and stay. If the visa officers feel the candidate’s real motive includes starting to work or taking up employment in New Zealand illegally, his/her student visa is sure to get rejected. You must provide strong proof to prove that you want to live in New Zealand only for studies. If you are unable to provide documents that support the purpose of travel and stay in New Zealand can result in the rejection of the visa.

Invalid or damaged passport
Your Passport is the vital thing you should be cautious with before you apply for a visa. If your passport is not in a proper way, torn, damaged, or missing pages, there is a high probability that your student visa application would be rejected by the Embassy. Also, make sure your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your period of stay in New Zealand.

Past Criminal Records
Having a criminal record is an important factor that may hinder your dream to study in New Zealand. Students at some time receive visa rejection even for minor incidents. No matter how minor your criminal record is, you need to reveal them in your application. It is always better, to tell the truth about your history.

Lack of Financial Stability
The embassy will ensure that students traveling to New Zealand have sufficient financial support to pay for study and living expenses such as accommodation, food, travel, etc. This means for the visa application process you will have to present evidence of enough funds available to you to support yourself financially in New Zealand. This is one of the most important requirements for the visa application process, so failure to fulfill this one will lead to a visa refusal.

Lack of Satisfactory Academic Achievements
To make sure that students entering New Zealand are motivated and skilled enough to successfully complete their study program, the visa officers need to know that candidates have enough academic potential. A poor grade in your previous education presents that you are not skilled enough to get through the education system in New Zealand. This might result in your visa getting rejected.

What to do if your student visa application is rejected
Students whose visa applications have been rejected should take this decision only as a hinder and not the end of their dream to study in New Zealand. As a visa is rejected does not mean the student cannot apply again. He or she should see where was the mistake done in the first visa application and apply again after the window period set by the New Zealand visa authorities. Chances of getting a New Zealand student visa after refusal depends on the complete document set you have submitted.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Is New Zealand accepting student visas?
If you are from another country, you can apply for a visa to study in New Zealand. You will need to pay the full cost of your courses and enroll with an approved education to provide an acceptance letter during the visa application process.

What happens if my visa gets rejected NZ?
If your visa gets rejected you won’t be able to move to New Zealand for your studies. However, you have the option of re-applying. Make sure that you avoid doing any kind of mistakes you made in your first application.

Why has my student visa been rejected?
There can be many reasons why your student visa has been rejected. To mention a few of them, Failure to prove financial stability, poor English proficiency, incomplete application form, inadequate visa documents, doubt on your travel to New Zealand, etc.

The New Zealand student visa process:

Steps to Success

There’s a fixed process for New Zealand study visa applications. Let’s take a look at some of the key steps.

Complete your application form carefully
Make sure you’ve accurately and fully entered all your information and provided scans or copies of all documents requested. This is a vital first step to that coveted New Zealand study visa, and an important part to get right.

Discuss potential issues as soon as possible
To receive a New Zealand student visa, you have to be of “good character”. Ultimately, this means you should have no criminal convictions. If you have convictions and want to stay in New Zealand for more than 24 months, police clearances may be necessary.

In this case, a representative from the New Zealand government will help you figure out the process. As this can add time to your application, it’s best to raise any potential issues as soon as possible.

Be prepared for an interview
As part of the application process, you may have to attend an interview. This is used to assess your eligibility for the New Zealand study visa. Often, the interview takes place over a video or phone call.

These types of interviews are not designed to trick or catch you out. Mostly, an officer will ask a series of questions about you and your studies. For instance, they will cover where you want to study, what you’re learning, what your plans are and any future career aspirations.

While interviews can be difficult, this visa interview is easy if you prepare properly. You can prepare by reviewing the reasons why you want to study in New Zealand. Also, be sure about where your finances are coming from and your course.

To succeed in the interview, answer these questions slowly and truthfully and make sure you explain yourself clearly.