How To Apply For Australia Study Visa

Australia is one of the top study destinations for international students looking for world-class education and a high standard of living. With over 1,200 institutions and 22,000 courses, it offers a wide range of study options in fields like engineering, medicine, business, law and more.

As a Nigerian student looking to study in Australia, one of the first steps is applying for the student visa. While the application process may seem complicated, following the step-by-step guide below will help ensure you submit a complete and strong visa application.

Why Study in Australia?

Before going into the nitty-gritty of applying, let’s first look at some of the benefits of studying in Australia:

World-class education – Australian universities are globally ranked and internationally recognized for their academic excellence.

Multicultural society – Over 30% of Australia’s population was born overseas. It’s a vibrant, safe and welcoming society.

High standard of living – Australia offers a very high quality of life with world-class infrastructure.

Bright future – Australia has a strong job market and provides excellent opportunities to build your career after graduation.

Permanent residency – International graduates from Australian universities are eligible to apply for permanent skilled migration visas like Subclass 189 visa.

Choosing a Course

The first step is shortlisting courses and universities you’d like to attend in Australia. Make sure to choose an accredited course related to your academic background and future career goals. Some popular course choices include:

• Bachelor’s degrees (BA, BSc, BCom etc.)

• Master’s degrees (MA, MSc, MBA etc.)

• Doctorate (PhD) and postgraduate research programs

• Vocational education & training (VET) diplomas and certificates

• English language training (ELICOS)

• Foundation and bridging courses

When researching courses, look at factors like fees, admission criteria, course duration, specializations offered and post-study work options. Handpick courses suited to your interests and career aspirations.

The university website, education consultants and student forums are good places to start your research. You can also contact universities directly or attend education fairs to get more insights.

Applying to Universities

Once you’ve shortlisted your preferred universities and courses, the next step is to submit your admission applications.

Each university will have its own application procedure, documents required and deadline. Refer to university websites and online prospectus for the latest requirements.

Here are some key documents you’ll need when applying for university admission:

Academic transcripts – Submit authenticated copies of your academic qualifications and marksheets. This includes secondary school results like WAEC, SSCE, NECO etc. and bachelor’s degree transcripts if applying for postgraduate studies.

English language test scores – You’ll need to meet the minimum English requirement by taking an approved test like IELTS, TOEFL or PTE.

Personal statement – Write a short essay highlighting your achievements, goals and reasons for choosing the course.

Updated CV/resume

References – Academic or professional references to vouch for your candidacy.

Portfolio – Relevant for courses in the creative arts, design, architecture etc.

Application fees – You’ll have to pay a non-refundable application fee for each university application.

After submitting your application, the university will review it and let you know the outcome – whether you have been admitted, placed on a waitlist or declined. Receive unconditional or conditional letters of offer from universities where you’ve been accepted.

Applying for a Student Visa

Once you receive your unconditional offer letter from an Australian university, you can proceed with your student visa application.

Here are the key steps in the Australian student visa application process for Nigerian students:

Choose Visa Subclass

The first step is to choose the right visa subclass suited to your course. The most common student visa subclasses are:

Subclass 500 – For most higher education courses like bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees.

Subclass 590 – For postgraduate research programs at Australian universities.

Subclass 570 – For vocational education and training courses.

Check Eligibility Criteria

You need to meet the eligibility criteria for the chosen visa subclass regarding age, English proficiency, financial capacity, previous visa history and other conditions. For example – you must prove to have sufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses.

Submit Online Application

Create an ImmiAccount and submit your visa application online along with the required documents.

Attach Supporting Documents

Collect and attach the supporting documents needed including:

– Passport – Valid Nigerian passport with at least 6 months validity.

– Birth certificate – Attested copy

– Academic transcripts and English test results

– University offer letters – Both conditional and unconditional offer letters

– Financial evidence – Include bank statements, tax documents, scholarship/sponsorship letters showing you can afford tuition and living costs.

– Medical certificate – Get the required medical checks done.

– Police clearance certificates – From all countries you’ve lived in for 12+ months over the last 10 years.

– Form 1221 – Additional personal details form

– Other relevant documents to support your visa application.

Pay Visa Fees

You’ll need to pay the student visa application charges which depends on your citizenship, university location and course duration. For a 3-year bachelor’s degree, it costs around $630 AUD.

Attend Biometrics Appointment

You’ll be asked to visit your nearest Australian Visa Application Centre (AVAC) in Nigeria for biometrics collection. This includes providing fingerprints and passport photograph.

Track Application Status

After submission, you can track your visa application status online through your ImmiAccount. The processing time is typically 1 to 4 months.

Visa Interview

Some applicants may also be required to attend a visa interview at the Australian High Commission in Abuja or Lagos. Be prepared to answer questions about your study plans, financial capacity and ties to your home country.

Visa Decision

Once a decision is made, Australian immigration will inform you via email or mail. If approved, you’ll receive a visa grant letter with your student visa details. If refused, reasons will be given and you may have to reapply.

Using a Migration Agent

Given the complexity of student visa rules, using an authorized migration agent can make the process much simpler. They help prepare your documentation, complete forms, communicate with the immigration department and reduce the probability of errors.

While hiring an agent adds to your costs, it significantly improves the chances of stress-free visa approval. Make sure to use a licensed and reputable agent registered with the Migration Agents Registration Authority (MARA).

Visa Conditions

Once you receive your Australian student visa, make sure to abide by the conditions it’s granted on including:

Maintain enrolment – Can’t defer, suspend or cancel your course without valid reasons.

Satisfy attendance requirements – Can’t miss classes or take unauthorized leave.

Update address details – Notify immigration about any changes in local address.

Work limits – Can only work 40 hours per fortnight when course is in session.

Health insurance – Must maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).

Remain academically progressing – Pass exams and complete your course within the duration.

Breaching any visa conditions can lead to visa cancellation and deportation.

Things to Do Once Visa is Approved

Once you get your Australian student visa approved, here are some things to do before you fly to Australia:

Inform university – Share your visa grant details and confirm course enrolment.

Make travel arrangements – Book your flight tickets and plan your arrival.

Arrange accommodation – Book student housing near university.

Get health insurance – Purchase OSHC which provides medical coverage.

Sort finances – Arrange funds transfer and open a local bank account.

Pack bags – Start packing as per Australian customs rules. Take study materials, official documents and medicines.

Attend pre-departure briefing – Participate in the orientation seminar by your university.

That covers the key steps involved in applying for an Australian student visa from Nigeria. Prepare a solid visa application by meeting all requirements, providing genuine documents and paying required fees. Follow up diligently post-submission and celebrate once