WORKING WHILE STUDYING

One of the advantages of being an international student in Australia is that you can receive permission to work part-time (up to 20 hours per week) while you study.

If you have permission to work, you can work up to 20 hours per week while your course is in session. However, you cannot start work until you have commenced your course in Australia. If you’re bringing your family with you, your dependants can also work up to 20 hours per week once you have started your course in Australia. If you have started a course at the Masters or Doctorate level, however, your dependents may work unlimited hours. If you or your dependents work in excess of these restrictions, your visas may be subject to cancellation.

You do not need a visa label in your passport to show your employer that you have permission to work. Your visa information is held electronically by DIAC and can be accessed at any time using the Visa Entitlement Verification Online (VEVO) system. Employers, banks, and Government services can also check details about your visa entitlements on VEVO once they have your consent to do so. International students often find work in retail, hospitality, and administration. You could expect to earn A$6-15 an hour, depending on the kind of work you do and your age. You may be paid more for working on Sundays or public holidays.

Tutoring younger students in the field you are studying, or in your native language is also a good way to earn money. Student tutors can earn about A$40 an hour.

WORKING AFTER THE COURSE HAS ENDED

Studying in Australia gives you a competitive edge. One of the great advantages of gaining an Australian qualification is the opportunities it will provide you when it comes time to find employment. No matter where you want to start your career, your qualification will be recognized as a mark of quality education. Employers in Australia and around the world hold Australian graduates in high esteem. Thousands of graduates are recruited every year in all career fields. From traditional fields, such as business, finance, law, and medicine, to emerging industries, such as environmental sustainability, digital media, biotechnology, nanotechnology, and e-commerce, your Australian qualification will provide you with an excellent platform from which to further your career. Many Australian universities and higher education institutions offer returning home seminars for international students. These seminars will prepare you to re-enter your home country and provide advice on finding a job.

There are a number of recruitment companies in Australia and around the world that offer career counseling and link graduates with prospective employers. Many large corporations run their own graduate recruitment service, and value graduates with international experience such as an Australian qualification.

The Australian Government has also been very active in developing Memoranda of Understanding and qualifications recognition between Australia and other countries. They can also advise you where to find information about employment and further study opportunities in Australia and in your country. The Australian Government skilled migration program targets young people who have skills, education, and outstanding abilities that will contribute to the Australian economy. International students with Australian qualifications account for about half the people assessed under the skilled migrant program. For up-to-date information on the program, visit the Department of Immigration and Citizenship’s website.