Lori Meadows
Applying to universities in the USA as an international student from Australia can be a complicated process. With over 4,700 universities and colleges in the USA and varying application requirements, it is recommended that students narrow down their options to avoid confusion. International students from Australia are typically interested in majors such as nursing, business, and engineering, but not all universities in the USA offer the same majors, so it is important to research which universities offer the desired degree program. Students should also be aware of the different education systems in the USA and Australia and seek guidance from education advisors or agencies. Additionally, international students may be required to take standardized tests such as the SAT or ACT and English proficiency exams such as IELTS or TOEFL. The application process may also involve submitting academic transcripts, resumes, and participating in interviews. Obtaining a student visa is another crucial step, which requires research and preparation of the necessary paperwork.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| First steps | Decide on the major or degree you wish to study. |
| Research universities that offer your desired degree. | |
| Choose 5-8 universities and determine which type of application they accept. | |
| Application process | Book a free online appointment with an education advisor. |
| Begin the application process with the help of an advisor. | |
| Submit your application by the deadline to be considered for scholarships. | |
| Apply directly to the university or via an authorised agent. | |
| Application requirements | Standardized scores: SAT and ACT test scores. |
| Academic transcripts. | |
| Resume (if applying for a master's degree). | |
| Proof of English proficiency (IELTS or TOEFL). | |
| Proof of sufficient funds to cover your study. | |
| After acceptance | Find accommodation (on-campus or private). |
| Begin the student visa application process. |
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What You'll Learn
Visa types and requirements
International students from Australia seeking to enter the United States will generally need to obtain a US visa.. The type of visa will depend on the purpose and duration of their stay. Here are the common visa types and their requirements for Australian citizens or residents seeking to enter the US as international students:
Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA)
The ESTA is an online application that is suitable for short-term stays in the US. Most Australian citizens are eligible for an ESTA, which is valid for 2 years and allows stays of up to 90 days. The application costs $14 USD and typically takes minutes to complete. However, it is important to note that an ESTA does not guarantee entry into the US, as this decision is made by US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials upon arrival.
Nonimmigrant Visa (DS-160)
For longer stays or more specialized purposes, such as international students seeking to study in the US, a nonimmigrant visa may be required. The DS-160 visa application can be completed online, and standard processing times are 3 to 5 workdays. One of the requirements for a student visa is to prove financial capacity by demonstrating sufficient savings to cover costs associated with the course, such as travel, course fees, and living expenses. The minimum amount required is $29,710.
Immigrant Visa
For those seeking to immigrate to the US, an immigrant visa application is necessary. These applications can be more complex and may take longer to process, sometimes up to six months. Applicants may need to undergo a visa interview and provide additional documentation, such as a letter of invitation from a sponsor in the US.
Health and Character Requirements
Regardless of the visa type, applicants must meet certain health and character requirements. This may include undergoing a health examination and providing a letter from a licensed physician explaining the reason for the trip if seeking medical treatment in the US. Applicants must also declare any previous offences and meet the character requirements set by the Department of Home Affairs.
Biometric and Clearance Requirements
The Australian Government has incorporated the collection of biometrics into the visa application process. Applicants may be requested to provide their biometrics in person at an AVAC or ABCC facility. Additionally, police clearance may be required, and applicants should ensure that clearance is requested for all names they have been known by.
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Health and character requirements
To study in the US as an international student from Australia, you must meet certain health and character requirements. These requirements are in place to maintain the high health standards in both countries.
Health Requirements
Most visa applicants are required to meet certain minimum health standards to be granted a visa to enter the US. The time it takes to assess your health can vary, so it is recommended to wait until after you apply for a visa to have your health examinations. However, this depends on the type of visa you are applying for. Permanent and provisional visa applicants generally need to have health examinations. To find out more about meeting the health requirement, visit the Department of Home Affairs website. Here, you can find a list of approved panel physicians in your location who can perform medical examinations on visa applicants outside Australia.
Character Requirements
All applicants must declare all recorded offences. Failure to do so may negatively impact your application. If requested, you must provide a police certificate from each country where you have lived for a total of 12 months or more in the last 10 years, since turning 16 years old. Applicants currently living in the US may be asked to obtain a State-wide police clearance from each state of residence.
The Australian Government has incorporated the collection of biometrics into the visa application process outside Australia. In selected locations, applicants may be requested to attend an AVAC or ABCC in person to lodge their application and/or provide their biometrics.
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The Visa Waiver Program
To be eligible for the VWP, a country must meet various requirements, including enhanced law enforcement and security-related data sharing with the United States, and maintaining high counterterrorism, law enforcement, border control, and document security standards. It is important to note that meeting these requirements does not guarantee that a country will be included in the program, as the designation is at the discretion of the U.S. government.
If you are a citizen of a country participating in the VWP, you may be able to travel to the United States without a visa. However, you must first obtain an approved Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) before your trip. An approved ESTA does not guarantee entry into the United States, as Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials at the port of entry have the authority to permit or deny admission.
Additionally, there are certain restrictions to the VWP. For example, those entering the United States under the program cannot extend their stay beyond the initial admission period, and they cannot change their status while in the country.
Citizens of Australia, Brunei, Hong Kong, Japan, Malaysia, Nauru, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, South Korea, Singapore, Taiwan, and the United Kingdom do not need a visa or ESTA to visit Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands due to the Guam-CNMI Visa Waiver Program. However, they must complete Form I-736 prior to their travel.
Now, here is a step-by-step guide on how to apply to US universities from Australia:
- Decide on the major or degree you wish to study. Not all universities in the USA offer the same majors, and some do not offer engineering or technology programs.
- After selecting your desired university, pay the tuition deposit. This can vary from $300 to $2000.
- Once you have paid the deposit, the university will issue you an I-20 form, which is required for your student visa application.
- Schedule an appointment for your student visa application. In Australia, appointments are usually available within one to two weeks.
- Gather the required documents, such as your I-20 form, passport, and financial documentation. You may also need to provide biometrics.
- Attend your visa application appointment and submit your application.
- Wait for your student visa to be processed and approved.
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In-person interviews
Although in-person interviews are not required for Australian officials travelling to the US, international students may be requested to attend an AVAC or ABCC in person to lodge their application and/or provide their biometrics.
The US Consulate General in Sydney processes all diplomatic and official visa applications in Australia. The U.S. Embassy in Canberra does not process visa applications. Immigrant Visas are only processed by the U.S. Consulate in Sydney.
It is important to note that an approved ESTA or valid visa does not guarantee entry into the United States. US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials at the port of entry will determine your eligibility. If denied entry, you may be held at the port of entry or a nearby detention facility while US authorities arrange your return to Australia.
US authorities have broad powers to decide if you are eligible to enter and may determine that you are inadmissible for any reason under US law. To maintain Australia's high health standards, most visa applicants are required to meet certain minimum health standards. This involves a medical examination by an approved panel physician. Applicants must also declare all recorded offences and provide a police certificate from each country where they have lived for a total of 12 months or more in the last 10 years.
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Academic and financial documents
When applying to US universities from Australia, it is important to prepare all the necessary academic and financial documents. Here is a detailed guide to help you through the process:
Academic Documents:
- Official Academic Transcript: This is the official record of your academic performance and progress. It lists the modules taken during each academic year and the marks obtained. Make sure to submit an official transcript with your application. Some universities may also require an official academic transcript to be printed on university transcript paper.
- Academic Reference Letters: These letters should be issued on university letterhead paper and signed by a referee with their name and contact details. The letters should be issued within the last two years.
- Research Proposal: If you are applying for a PhD program, you will typically need to submit a research proposal outlining your original research idea.
- Portfolio: For practice-based courses, such as art or design, you may need to provide a portfolio of your previous work. Check the entry requirements for your specific course.
- Certificates and Transcripts: Ensure that your name is consistent across all your certificates, transcripts, and other documents, including your passport and birth certificate. If there are discrepancies, consider getting them amended or providing a statutory declaration.
- English Language Proficiency: As an Australian citizen, you are exempt from providing English proficiency exams, which are usually required for other international students.
Financial Documents:
- Proof of Financial Support: All students are typically required to demonstrate their financial ability to pay for at least one year of academic and living expenses. You may need to provide bank documentation showing available funds that can be liquidated before the first day of classes.
- Certification of Finances: Complete the Certification of Finances for International Students (CFIS) to outline your financial situation. If you have additional sources of funds, you may need to submit the Attachment to the CFIS.
- Sponsor Declaration: If you have a sponsor, such as a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, they must complete the Form I-134 Declaration of Financial Support. The sponsor must specify their commitment and provide their address if they are providing housing.
- Valid Financial Documents: Ensure that your financial documents are in English or are accompanied by a notarized English translation. They should be dated within the last three months and be on official bank letterhead with the bank's address, contact information, and a bank official's signature. Keep copies of these documents, as you will need them when applying for your student visa.
It is important to note that specific document requirements may vary slightly depending on the university and your chosen course of study. Always refer to the official websites of the universities you are applying to for the most up-to-date and accurate information.
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Frequently asked questions
You need to apply for a student (F or M) visa.
First, you need to gain acceptance at a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-approved school in the United States. Once accepted, you will be registered for SEVP and must pay the SEVP I-901 fee. The school will then issue you a Form I-20, which you must present at your visa interview. You will also need to complete Form DS-160 and provide a photo.
The U.S. Consulate General in Sydney processes all official visa applications in Australia. You can also contact the U.S. Embassy in Canberra or one of the U.S. Consulates in Melbourne or Perth for more information.
There is a non-refundable visa application fee, and if your visa is approved, you may also have to pay a visa issuance fee, depending on your nationality.
You will need to provide a bank statement, bank letter, or loan letter. You may also need to provide recommendation letters, usually for higher-level courses.
