As prospective international students in Australia, it’s only natural that we are curious about the education system and how soon we can get a job to cover our expenses. While it is surely important to know these things, we often overlook researching the other seemingly small things that are eventually going to affect us as well once we’re there, studying in Australia. From the weather to the rules of the road, we’ve got you covered with everything you need to know before beginning your journey as an Indian international student abroad.
1.The Job Market for International Students
The industries of retail, hospitality, telemarketing, customer service, deliveries, etc. have numerous job offerings for international students in Australia. While some people are able to find a job easily, others, without guided efforts, struggle for several months. So, how easy or difficult is it to land a job in Australia?
The truth is, it all depends on how hard we’re willing to work in order to land a job. No matter how solid our application or experience is, it will only matter once it reaches the right kind of people. And for that, we must network well. Whether it’s our batchmates from university or our mentors or friends, we must try to connect with as many people as we can who can introduce us to even more people. This will eventually help us land our application in the right hands.
2. Standard of Living in Australia
As you may already know, Australia is super expensive. Even so, it is more expensive than in the USA. But what you might not know is that Australia also has one of the highest minimum wages in the world. The current wage rate is $21.38 per hour. This makes it easier for you to afford a good lifestyle once you find a job. Your weekly payout will be enough to cover your average monthly expenses.
Discover the cost of living in australia for international students.
3. The Education System in Australia
If you’re an Indian student in Australia, you’re going to find the Australian education and grading system very different from what you’ve always known. In Australian universities, a semester is only twelve weeks long. There’s a short mid-semester break in between, followed by a SWOT week (Study Without Teaching), and then the final exam. A twelve-week long semester sounds wonderful, doesn’t it?
However, we must be careful when it comes to academics. If we fail one subject in a semester, we have to pay the fees for that subject again. Among students, resorting to plagiarism is common. In such times, we must remember the purpose of coming to study in Australia and truly earn our grades.
A ‘D’ grade at an Australian university stands for “Distinction,” as opposed to a “mercy pass” in various grading systems across the world.
4. The Weather and Seasons in Australia
When we think about Australia, what automatically comes to our minds is beautiful sunny beaches and people surfing around. Don’t shoot the messenger, but Australian weather isn’t always breezy like this.
Since Australia is in the southern hemisphere, the seasons are flipped. You should expect the coldest winter nights in July in Melbourne and a heat wave in January. The weather in Australia, in general, is slightly unpredictable. Hence, we suggest googling the weather updates regularly to be best prepared—whether to carry an umbrella, jacket, or sunblock.
At the onset of summer, on the first Sunday of October every year, most of Australia moves their clock one hour forward to get more usable hours of daylight. This goes on for six months until you make the switch again.
5. Road Safety Rules in Australia
It’s quite possible that you may rent a car sometime during your stay in Australia. If you’re an Indian student in Australia, it is going to be a relief to know that Australians drive on the left side of the road as well. However, Australia’s road safety rules and regulations are quite stringent as compared to most South Asian countries.
Speeding while driving in Australia is not a good idea. There are number of cameras on street and high penalties for the same. Not using the pedestrian crossing to cross the street will also land you up with a hefty penalty. So fasten your seatbelt, keep your license ready and look out for kangaroos at dawn and dusk to ensure a smooth, safe drive on the Australian roads!
Being aware of these 5 things will make your stay in Australia as an international student a lot better. With a little preparation, curiosity, enthusiasm, and caution, you’re bound to have a wonderful time – in the class, at the job, or on the road over the weekend!
For a video explanation of this blog, view it here
