General Questions

What are my study options? 

This depends on what you are looking for. In Australia and New Zealand, you can study at every level from high school to obtaining a PhD. Language courses are common as well. Just explore the website or contact us with your questions.

May I attach any kind of copy of my documents to my application?

You can attach only certified copies in English. For documents in other languages, an official translation is required. Student Down Under can advise you about obtaining suitable copies and translations.

I study already at home. Will the education institution in Australia or New Zealand accept my credits?

This depends on your previous education, the course you are applying for and the educational institution. Based on your specific case, the local educational institution will make a decision. Student Down Under is unable to influence this decision.

Who will inform me that I have been accepted?

In some cases, you will be contacted directly by the institution and in other cases you will hear it from Student Down Under. This depends on your chosen institution.

How long will it take to be accepted?

Plan about 6-8 weeks for the educational institution to check your application and make a decision.

I have to provide a copy of my passport but I do not yet have one / it is not valid long enough. Do I have to wait until I have my (new) passport?

No, you can apply anyways and send the copy to the educational institution later. However, do apply for / renew your passport as quickly as possible.

What is the public transport like in Australia / New Zealand?

Public transport is good in both countries. It is not very expensive and as a student you can profit from reductions.

When do I have to apply for a course?

The sooner the better.
In some cases, we are able to process your application just a few weeks before the semester starts but this is not always the case.

Is my place guaranteed once I applied?

In 99% of the cases, yes. This is based on students who applied at least 5 months in advance. Once you paid your study fees and received the enrollment confirmation, your place is guaranteed.

Which activities are organised for students who have applied through Student Down Under?

Several times per year, excursions and tours are organised for our students. They can vary depending on the location and the season and range from short winter sport holidays to weekends exploring the country. In Auckland (New Zealand), dinners are organised as well.

Visa & Insurance

Do I have to apply for a visa?

Yes, you have to apply for a visa when you are planning to study longer than three months in Australia or New Zealand. Once you applied for your course, Student Down Under assists you with applying for the appropriate (student) visa.

Are Australia and New Zealand safe countries?

Yes. They are among the safest countries in the world with very low criminality.

How long does it take to get the visa?

Usually, you will receive a confirmation of your visa within 3-4 weeks.

Do I need an insurance?

Yes, proper insurance (including health insurance) is required for the whole period of your stay. You can contact Student Down Under for any related questions.
Some educational institutions require international students to buy a specific insurance to be sure that each student is insured appropriately. Therefore, it pays to wait until you apply at a specific institution before purchasing your insurance.

Do I need special vaccinations?

No, for Australia and New Zealand are no country specific vaccinations required.
Only if you are thinking about exploring other countries during your stay (Asian countries, French Polynesia, other island states), you may be required to have certain vaccinations. Feel free to contact Student Down Under with any questions.

Housing & Arrival

Is my accommodation furnished?

Yes, if you book your accommodation through Student Dwon under or the educational institution.

When do I have to apply for accommodation?

As soon as you are accepted at your educational institution, it is recommended to book your accommodation. Student Down Under cooperates with the institution in this regard as well to make it affordable, easy and convenient for you to organise your place to stay.

Where is my accommodation located?

When booking it through Student Down Under or the educational institution, your accommodation will be located as close to the educational institution as possible. This is often in the city centre.

How much rent do I have to pay for my accommodation?

The rent depends on the educational institution and your chosen accommodation option. On average, you should plan between € 350,- to € 500,- per month / four week period.

What do I do when I arrive in Australia or New Zealand?

You will receive specific information once you communicate when and where you are going to arrive.

I feel homesick. What do I do?

It is absolutely normal to feel homesick, so do not be ashamed to talk about it, for example to one of our staff Down Under. They know exactly how it feels like and are able to assist you.

Payment & Costs

When do I have to pay my tuition fees?

Once you have been accepted by the educational institution of your choice, you receive an invoice for your tuition fees. You need to pay them before leaving for Australia or New Zealand as your place is only 100% guaranteed once tuition fees are paid.

To whom do I have to pay my tuition fees?

You pay the educational institution directly.
Student Down Under, as the institutions' representative abroad, offers you its service for free.

Is the service of Student Down Under completely free of charge?

Yes. You never have to pay Student Down Under for its service. However, in some cases, the educational institution requires us ask you for a deposit to be sure of your interest. Once you pay the study fees, we will return the full deposit. Our service is indeed completely free for you!

How high are the costs of living in Australia and New Zealand?

During your first month Down Under, flight tickets, one-time purchases, accommodation deposit, rent and transportation can add up to quite an amount. For the remaining months, the costs of living are similar to Western countries.

May I work part time?

Yes, should you study at least one year, you are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week next to your classes.
Please contact us if you plan to do this so we can advise you regarding the appropriate sections in your visa application. Should you spontaneously decide to take on a part-time job, contact us or the visa office at your educational institution.

Are there grants or scholarships available?

This depends highly on your country of origin and your individual situation. In some cases, you are able to obtain one. Please have a look at the relevant website in regards to your desired level of education or contact Student Down Under.