How to Move to Adelaide, Australia, to Study as an International Student

Introduction

Adelaide (ADL), a vibrant and welcoming city in South Australia, is an increasingly popular choice for international students seeking a high-quality education. Renowned for its world-class education providers, including the University of Adelaide, and its affordable cost of living, moving to ADL for your studies can be an enriching experience.

This comprehensive guide is designed to assist prospective international students in navigating the essential steps to move to ADL successfully. It provides practical information on the entire process, from enrolment with an Australian education provider and securing your student visa, to finding suitable student accommodation options and understanding public transport, ultimately helping you move and settle into this liveable city, with an eye towards future opportunities.

What Steps Should You Take to Move to Adelaide as an International Student?

Choose Your Course & Education Provider in Adelaide

The first crucial step in your journey to study in ADL, South Australia, is to choose a course and an education provider that aligns with your academic and career aspirations. It is essential to research the various institutions in ADL and select a program that suits your goals.

Key institutions for international students include:

• The University of Adelaide, a member of the prestigious Group of Eight
• Flinders University, known for its innovative teaching
• The University of South Australia (UniSA), with its strong industry links
• TAFE SA, South Australia’s largest vocational education and training provider

When selecting your course and education provider, it is vital to ensure they are registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS). Enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course is a mandatory requirement for an Australian student visa. You can verify this information on the official CRICOS website.

Furthermore, you must thoroughly check your chosen course, the institution’s academic entry requirements, and English language proficiency standards. These requirements can vary significantly, so detailed research is necessary to ensure you are eligible to apply. Resources like the StudyAdelaide website can provide valuable information about studying and living in Adelaide.

Consider the following when making your choice:

• Course Content and Structure: Ensure the curriculum matches your interests and future career plans.
• Academic Requirements: Verify that your previous qualifications meet the institution’s standards for your desired course.
• English Language Proficiency: Check the specific scores required for tests like International English Language Testing System (IELTS) or Test of English as a Foreign Language internet-Based Test (TOEFL iBT), as these differ by institution and program.
• Tuition Fees and Other Costs: Understand the financial commitment for your chosen course.
• Application Deadlines: Be aware of the closing dates for applications to ensure you apply on time for your move to ADL.

Submit Your Application & Secure Your Offer to Study in Adelaide

Once you have selected your course and education provider in ADL, the next step is to submit your application. Most institutions in South Australia, such as the University of Adelaide, UniSA, and Flinders University, allow international students to apply directly through their online portals or via a registered education agent. TAFE SA applications are typically lodged via their website.

To complete your application, you should prepare and submit several important documents. These generally include:

• Academic Transcripts: Certified copies of your previous academic records and completion certificates.
• Proof of English Proficiency: Results from an approved English language test. For example, IELTS, Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)).
• Passport Copy: A clear copy of your passport’s personal details page.
• Statement of Purpose (SOP): Some courses or institutions may require a personal essay outlining your reasons for applying.
• Letters of Recommendation: These may be needed for certain programs, particularly at the postgraduate level.
• Application Fee: Some universities, like Flinders University, charge an application fee.

After your application is assessed, and if it is successful, you will receive a Letter of Offer from the institution. This document will detail your course, enrolment conditions, and the fees you pay. It is crucial to read this letter carefully.

If you accept the offer, you should sign and return the acceptance form and pay the required deposit, which usually includes a portion of your tuition fees and the Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) cost. The institution will issue a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) upon successful acceptance and payment. The CoE is a critical document required for your Australian student visa application, confirming your international student enrolment.

How Can You Secure Your Student Visa to Study in Adelaide?

Understand Student Visa Requirements for Australia

Securing an Australian Student Visa (Subclass 500) is essential to moving to ADL to study successfully. Prospective international students must meet several key eligibility criteria:

• Confirmation of Enrolment: You must hold a CoE from a CRICOS-registered education provider in ADL, which verifies your acceptance into a full-time course. This document is issued after you have accepted your Letter of Offer and paid the required deposit.
• English Language Proficiency: You will typically need to provide results from an approved English language test, such as IELTS or TOEFL, to prove you meet the minimum standards for your chosen course and the visa itself.
• Financial Capacity: As of recent guidelines, you must show evidence of having at least Australian Dollars (AUD) 29,710 for annual living costs and funds to cover your tuition fees and travel expenses to Australia.
• Overseas Student Health Cover: Obtaining OSHC is mandatory for the entire duration of your stay on a student visa. Proof of this coverage is a prerequisite for the visa application, and failure to maintain this coverage can lead to visa cancellation.
• Genuine Student (GS) Requirement: Applicants must satisfy this assessment by answering specific questions about their current circumstances, reasons for choosing their course and Australia, the benefits of the course to their future, and any previous study history in Australia. This helps visa decision-makers understand your primary intention to study in Australia genuinely.

Submit Your Student Visa Application via ImmiAccount

The Student Visa (Subclass 500) application to study in ADL is completed online through the Department of Home Affairs’ ImmiAccount portal. You need to create an account to lodge your application and upload all the necessary documentation. It is advisable to gather all required documents before commencing the online application.

The key documents you will typically need to submit include:

• A valid passport, which must be current for the duration of your studies in Australia
• Your CoE from your ADL institution
• Proof of your OSHC policy
• Evidence of sufficient funds to cover your tuition, living expenses, and travel
• Results from an approved English language proficiency test
• A GS statement, or answers to the GS questions within the application, addressing your intentions for studying in Australia

You may also need to provide health examination reports and character documents, such as police certificates, if requested by the Department of Home Affairs.

Once all documents are prepared and the online application form is completed, you will need to pay the visa application fee. The base application charge for the main applicant starts from AUD 1,600. After submission, you may be required to attend a biometrics appointment or undergo further health examinations. You can then monitor the progress of your application through your ImmiAccount.

How Should You Prepare for Your Arrival in Adelaide?

Arrange Your Travel & Essential Documents for Moving to Adelaide

Once your student visa is granted, booking your flights to ADL becomes a priority. It’s advisable to arrive in time for university orientation programs, as these sessions provide valuable information for settling into your studies and life in South Australia.

When booking your travel:

• Compare prices across different airlines and booking platforms
• Consider being flexible with your travel dates if possible, as this can sometimes lead to more affordable fares

Compiling all essential documents is crucial to ensure a smooth entry into Australia and seamless enrolment at your education provider. You should prepare and carry these documents with you, preferably in your carry-on luggage, for easy access:

• Valid Passport: Ensure your passport is current and will remain valid for the duration of your stay in Australia
• Student Visa Grant Notice: Official proof of your visa to study in Australia
• CoE: This document from your Adelaide institution verifies your enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course
• Letter of Offer: The official offer of admission from your chosen university or education provider
• Academic Transcripts and Certificates: Original or certified copies of your previous academic qualifications
• Overseas Student Health Cover Policy: Proof of your mandatory health insurance for international students
• Flight Itinerary: Your confirmed flight details to ADL
• Proof of Initial Funds: Evidence that you have access to sufficient money to cover your initial expenses upon arrival
• Medical Records and Prescriptions: If you take regular medication, carry a doctor’s letter and the prescriptions

What Should You Know About Costs & Finances for Studying in Adelaide?

Estimate Your Living Expenses Before Moving to Adelaide

ADL stands out as one of Australia’s most affordable capital cities, offering international students a high quality of life without the steep expenses in Sydney or Melbourne. On average, you might spend between AUD 350 and AUD 700 per week on living expenses, though this varies based on your lifestyle and accommodation choices.

Key living expenses for international students in ADL typically include:

• Accommodation: Often the largest expense, ranging from AUD 150 to AUD 600 weekly, depending on your housing option.
• Food and Groceries: Budget approximately AUD 60 to AUD 100 weekly if cooking your meals and shopping at budget-friendly supermarkets. Dining out will naturally increase this expense.
• Utilities: If not included in your rent, allocate about AUD 35 to AUD 50 weekly for electricity, gas, and water. Internet and mobile phone plans may add an extra AUD 25 to AUD 65 per week.
• Public Transport: ADL offers an efficient public transport system. As an international student, you’re often eligible for concessions on a MetroCARD, making weekly travel on buses, trains, and trams quite affordable at around AUD 15 to AUD 30.
• Personal Expenses: This includes entertainment, clothing, toiletries, and other incidentals, which vary widely but should be factored into your budget.

Calculate Tuition Fees and Study Costs at Adelaide Institutions

Tuition fees represent a significant component of studying in Australia and vary depending on your chosen education provider and course. For international students in ADL:

• Undergraduate programs at institutions like the University of Adelaide, Flinders University, and UniSA typically range from AUD 28,000 to AUD 50,000 annually.
• Postgraduate programs generally cost between AUD 25,000 and AUD 55,000 per year.
• Vocational courses at TAFE SA often have lower annual fees, typically ranging from AUD 15,000 to AUD 20,000+ for many diploma and certificate programs.

Beyond tuition, you should budget for these additional study-related expenses:

• Textbooks and Study Materials: Allocate approximately AUD 500 to AUD 1,000 annually for textbooks, stationery, and other necessary course materials.
• Specialist Equipment: Some courses, particularly in science, engineering, or the arts, may require specific equipment, software, or tools.
• Field Trips and Excursions: Certain programs include compulsory field trips with associated costs for travel or materials.
• Administrative Fees: Be aware of potential minor fees for services like re-issuing documents or applying for Recognition of Prior Learning.

Apply for Scholarships to Fund Your Studies in Adelaide

Numerous scholarship opportunities are available from educational institutions and the Australian government to help manage the costs of studying in ADL.

Many Adelaide-based institutions offer scholarships specifically for international students:

• The University of Adelaide: Provides options such as the Global Academic Excellence Scholarship and others that may offer significant tuition fee reductions.
• Flinders University: Offers the Vice-Chancellor International Scholarship, which can reduce tuition fees, and Go Beyond Scholarships.
• The University of South Australia: Features awards such as the International Merit Scholarship and the Vice Chancellor’s International Excellence Scholarship, which can substantially reduce tuition fees.

The government also provides scholarships that international students may be eligible for:

• Australia Awards: These prestigious international scholarships and fellowships offer the opportunity to undertake full-time undergraduate or postgraduate study at participating Australian universities and Technical and Further Education (TAFE) institutions.
• Destination Australia Scholarship: This program funds eligible tertiary education providers to offer scholarships to domestic and international students studying in regional Australia, including ADL.

When researching scholarships, pay close attention to the eligibility criteria, application deadlines, and specific benefits offered. Securing a scholarship can significantly ease the financial aspects of your international student journey in ADL.

What are the post-study opportunities for international students in Adelaide?

Apply for a Temporary Graduate Visa to Extend Your Stay

After completing your studies in ADL, the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) allows international students to extend their stay in Australia. This visa will enable you to remain in the country temporarily to live, study, or work.

Key features of this visa include:

• The Post-Higher Education Work Stream typically permits graduates to stay for two to four years, depending on their qualification
• ADL’s classification as a regional area for migration purposes offers significant benefits
• International student graduates from education providers in ADL may be eligible for an additional year of post-study work rights.

Explore Pathways to Permanent Residency Through South Australia State Nomination

Exploring state nomination is a key step for international students who aspire to live in South Australia permanently after their studies. The government actively nominates skilled graduates who meet specific criteria for permanent residency.

This pathway aims to retain talent that can contribute to the state’s development and can be an essential part of your long-term plans in Australia. To understand if you are eligible for state nomination, visiting the official Skilled and Business Migration portal for South Australia is essential. This resource provides the most current information on requirements for skilled migration visas.

Conclusion

Successfully moving to ADL to study as an international student involves several key stages, from choosing your course with an education provider and securing your student visa to arranging suitable accommodation and managing the cost of living. Understanding the enrolment process, navigating public transport options, and exploring post-study visa options are also vital for your journey to study in Australia.

Embarking on this educational journey to Australia is a significant step, and for trusted expertise in navigating the complexities of your student visa or future migration pathways in ADL, contact Moya Migration Law today. Our experienced team offers specialised support services and comprehensive migration advice tailored to your needs, helping you move and achieve your study and settlement goals in this liveable city.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)