Navigating International Student Status In Australia: Who Qualifies?

Australia has the highest percentage of international students in the world, with 1 international student for every 33.6 people in 2023. International students in Australia are required to obtain a valid student visa and submit a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and an English language proficiency test score. The Australian government encourages foreign students to work and stay in regional areas by reducing the quota of skilled independent visa entrants and increasing the number of skilled regional visas. In this paragraph, we will explore the topic of Am I an international student in Australia? and delve into the factors that define an international student in the context of Australian education.

Student visa requirements

To study in Australia, international students must obtain a valid student visa before arrival. The Student Visa (Subclass 500) permits international students to pursue a wide range of study options in Australia. The visa application must be submitted through the Australian Government's Department of Home Affairs.

The visa application process requires several documents, including the electronic Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and a compulsory English language proficiency test score. The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is the most popular test, with a minimum requirement of 6.0 for the student visa. However, certain courses may require a higher score, such as Business, IT, and Engineering, which typically ask for a 6.5. Additionally, students must provide evidence of financial ability to cover tuition fees, living expenses, dependent expenses, and return airfare. If the applicant is under 18, parental consent and other additional documents are also necessary.

The visa fees start at AUD $1,600 per application, unless exempt, and the processing times vary for each applicant. It is recommended that students submit their applications 8 to 12 weeks before the start of their program. The Simplified Student Visa Framework (SSVF), implemented in 2016, determines the number of documents required based on the applicant's country of citizenship and intended education provider.

To maintain the validity of the student visa, individuals must remain enrolled in their course, maintain satisfactory progress and attendance, and continue to be financially capable of supporting themselves while in Australia.

Mental health challenges

International students in Australia face unique mental health challenges. These challenges are influenced by factors such as cultural adjustment, academic pressures, and social isolation. Studies indicate that anxiety affects between 2.4% and 43% of international students, while depression rates range from 3.6% to 38.3%. Approximately 31.6% to 54% of international students report experiencing psychological stress or distress. Recent research reveals that between 5% and 18% of international students have experienced suicidal thoughts, with around 2% having attempted suicide.

Financial difficulties and work-related stress affect 15.4% to 95% of international students, contributing to their mental health challenges. Experiences of discrimination and concerns about personal safety are also common, reported by 9% to 50% of international students, impacting their overall well-being. These challenges are further exacerbated by barriers in accessing mental health support, including cultural stigma, language barriers, and a lack of awareness of available services.

The COVID-19 pandemic has also negatively impacted the mental health of international students in Australia. The pandemic has exacerbated existing challenges, and social isolation and restricted access to support services have taken a toll on their well-being.

To address these mental health challenges, educational institutions in Australia are encouraged to actively promote available mental health services to international students. Cultural competency training for service providers is essential to understanding and respecting the diverse cultural backgrounds of students. Implementing policies that specifically address the unique challenges faced by international students can improve their access to mental health support.

Additionally, it is important for international students to maintain close social connections to optimize their mental health. This is especially crucial for students from highly socially engaged cultures who find themselves in more individualistic environments like Australia. Support services such as university counselling, telephone helplines, and community-based initiatives are available to provide assistance and help prevent mental health issues from escalating.

Immigration policy

Australia has the highest percentage of international students in the world relative to its total population. In 2023, there was 1 international student per 33.6 people, and in 2024 this number is predicted to increase to 1 in 28.8. International education is the third-largest export industry in Australia, and it is essential to both the national economy and higher education. The country is a popular choice for international students due to its high-quality, relatively low-cost education, safety, and convenient geographical location.

The Australian government's current immigration policy encourages foreign students to work and stay in regional areas, such as Adelaide and Tasmania, by reducing the quota of skilled independent visa entrants and increasing the number of skilled regional (provisional) visas. The policy also prioritises criteria for high-quality education, financial stability, and English competence.

In 2024, Australia updated its student visa regulations, requiring offshore applications and higher fees. The initial application cost is now AUD 1,600, with higher fees for dependents. These changes aim to control immigration rates and ensure that only deserving candidates pursue their studies in Australia. Additionally, the Simplified Student Visa Framework (SSVF) allows foreign students to provide a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) to meet the English language requirements for their student visa application. However, those assessed at a higher immigration risk level will still need to attend an English language test and provide additional evidence of their proficiency.

The relationship between international student programs and immigration policy is a challenge for the Australian government. The country's economy benefits significantly from international students, and any changes to immigration policies can impact the Australian international education market. Therefore, the government must carefully consider the potential consequences of policy changes on this sensitive group.

English language proficiency

Australia has the highest percentage of international students in the world relative to its total population. In 2023, there was 1 international student for every 33.6 people in the country. International students are drawn to Australia for its high-quality education, the possibility of immigration, and the experience of a different life.

If you are considering joining this large international student community in Australia, you may be wondering if you are classified as an international student. This answer will focus on the English language proficiency requirements for international students in Australia.

International students in Australia are required to demonstrate English language proficiency in order to enrol in courses and apply for student visas. The specific requirements may vary depending on the educational institution and visa regulations, but here are some general guidelines:

• Tests: International students can provide test scores from standardised English language tests such as IELTS, TOEFL iBT, PTE, Cambridge C1 Advanced, or Cambridge C2 Proficiency. These tests assess reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills. The tests need to be less than two years old at the date of course commencement.
• Prior Education: If you have completed your prior education in an English-speaking country, you may be able to use that as proof of English proficiency. Recognised secondary education qualifications undertaken in English, such as the Cambridge GCE Advanced Levels and International Baccalaureate diploma, may be accepted.
• Tertiary Study: If you have at least one year of full-time (or equivalent part-time) tertiary study in a recognised bachelor's degree or other approved tertiary qualifications, this can also demonstrate English proficiency. This must be within five years of the commencement of your intended course in Australia.
• Work Experience: In some cases, if English is not your first language and you have lived and worked continuously for at least five years in an English-speaking country, your work experience may be assessed to determine English proficiency.

It is important to note that the requirements and accepted forms of evidence may vary depending on the university or visa regulations. Always refer to the specific guidelines provided by your chosen educational institution and the Australian Department of Home Affairs for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

International student numbers

Australia has the highest percentage of international students in the world, relative to its total population. In 2023, there were 786,891 international students enrolled in educational programs in Australia, which was 27% higher than the previous year. This represented an average of 26.45% of the student body population in Australian universities, or 1 international student per 33.6 people. The University of Sydney has the largest international student cohort at 37,528, while Monash University, the largest university in Australia, has 35,897 international students.

International education is one of Australia's largest exports, with a total market value of over 5 billion AUD (3.47 billion USD) generated by international students in 2018. The majority of international students in Australia come from China, followed by India, Nepal, Colombia, and the Philippines. Most international students who come to study in Australia wish to reside there permanently. The Australian government's current immigration policy encourages foreign students to work and stay in regional areas by reducing the quota of skilled independent visa entrants and increasing the number of skilled regional (provisional) visas.

In addition to the large number of international students, Australia also has a significant population of domestic students. As of 2022, there were over four million students in Australia, including full-time and part-time students. Of these, over 1.2 million were in Australia's most populous state, New South Wales.

While Australia's high number of international students contributes significantly to the country's economy, there are also concerns about the rising safety issues faced by these students. Reports indicate that international students in Australia experience mental health challenges, and the country lacks adequate preventive and support systems to address these issues. A 2019 report revealed that rising educational and financial pressures, isolation, homesickness, and difficulties in accessing mental health support have led to an increase in suicides among international students.

Frequently asked questions