Fast-tracking your university degree overseas (Australia Edition)
Hello! I'm Ian, a Singaporean male with a polytechnic diploma (Cybersecurity) and who has completed two years of military service. I recently graduated with a Bachelor of Information Technology in Australia from Monash University. Some of my peers have reached out wanting to learn more about the process and experiences of studying abroad. Consolidating my personal research, help I've received from friends and professionals in education consulting, here are 8 key considerations to take note of before proceeding with a bachelor’s course in Australia.
For better or for worse, Australian universities generally do not use a strict "bell curve" grading system. Let's get started:
1. Academic Pathway and Credit Transfer
Entry Requirements:
Do some prior research on university entry requirements, in some cases you would have to convert your polytechnic GPA to an ATAR (Australian Tertiary Admission Rank). Some require academic qualifications or English proficiency tests (e.g., IELTS or TOEFL), which should be no issue for Singaporeans.
Credit Recognition:
With a local (SG) polytechnic diploma, A number of Australian universities offer credit exemptions. Depending on the university you choose and the modules you have taken up in your diploma, you may be able to skip certain units or even an entire year (or two) of studies. I managed to get half of my university course duration reduced - a 3 year long bachelor of IT course got shortened to 1.5 years, what a deal!
Course Selection:
Choose a course that aligns with your interests, and future career goals. Based on your diploma, a relevant university course usually allows for credit exemptions. Have a think if you would like to continue working in a field similar to your choice of study, or to pivot to another field.
2. Financial Planning
Tuition Fees:
Pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Australia, tuition costs can vary widely. A general range would be between AUD 20,000 and 45,000 per year. The specific amount depends on the chosen field of study and the institution. Some disciplines, like medicine, can be significantly more expensive. For example, I’ve had peers studying medicine who are paying around AUD 100,000 annually for their degree.
Cost of Living:
Living in major cities such as Sydney or Melbourne can be quite expensive. When budgeting, it’s important to account for essentials like housing, groceries, transportation, and other personal expenses such as phone bills and entertainment. On average, students should expect to spend between AUD 20,000 and 30,000 per year to cover these costs.
Part-Time Work:
International students on a Subclass 500 visa are allowed to work, but there are restrictions. During the academic semester, students can work up to 48 hours every two weeks. However, during semester breaks or holidays, these limits don’t apply, and students can work full-time. It’s a good idea to keep an eye on any changes to visa rules, as work regulations can be updated from time to time.
Scholarships and Financial Aid:
There are plenty of funding opportunities to help ease the financial burden of studying abroad. Many universities and external organizations offer scholarships, grants, and other forms of financial support. Applying for these can make a big difference in managing expenses throughout your studies.
3. Visa and Immigration Requirements
Student Visa (Subclass 500):
You will need to apply for a student visa, which requires proof of enrollment (Offer Letter and CoE), financial capacity, and health insurance. There would be a Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement in the form of an essay to write. This GTE is designed to ensure that international students studying in Australia would return to their home countries after completion of studies. Do take note that there is also a minimum EFTSL (Equivalent Full Time Study Load) of 1. This equates to 8 modules a year (4 modules per semester, or 2-3 modules per trimester) to maintain your student visa.
Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC):
This insurance cover is mandatory for international students as part of visa requirements and must be maintained throughout your stay in Australia. OSHC provides cost coverage for medical and hospital care. Some common OSHC providers include Allianz and Bupa.
Immigrating with a Post-Study Work Visa:
Upon completion of your degree, you may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485), which allows you to work in Australia for up to 2-4 years, depending on the course of study. Do take note that you are required to be in Australia when applying for this visa and you must have held a student visa in the last 6 months.
4. Cultural and Lifestyle Adjustments
Cultural Differences:
While both Singapore and Australia are multicultural and multiracial, the lifestyle in Australia is generally more laid-back and relaxed. Be ready to adjust to a different social and academic environment.
Study-Life Balance:
Australian universities emphasise a balanced lifestyle, encouraging students to engage in extracurricular activities and explore beyond academics. There is however, no pressure to join any clubs and societies and one is able to explore their interests freely.
I did 6 modules a semester in polytechnic, which also had a high workload. Comparing that to 4 modules a semester in university, I was able to also chill out more with friends as compared to staying in to study.
Weather and Environment:
Australia has a vastly different climate from Singapore, with four distinct seasons which can be experienced in a day. You’ll need to adapt to master the art of layering for the cooler temperatures and get ready for more outdoor-oriented activities.
One of the most interesting phenomenons that you would observe would be Daylight Saving Time (DST). DST is observed in some Australian states and territories during the summer. This involves moving clocks forward one hour.
- Start: The first Sunday in October at 2 AM (AEST)
- End: The first Sunday in April at 3 AM (AEDT)
Ah... So I'm losing one hour of sleep when Daylight Savings starts, and gaining the time back months later...
5. Academic and Personal Development
Independent Learning:
Australian universities promote independent learning, critical thinking, and active participation in class. It is important to be proactive, to get the most out of your learning. Tutors expect you to finish your pre-class readings and contribute to class discussions, so be prepared to participate actively. This may differ from your previous schooling experiences where there were more instances of spoon-feeding and guidance from school teachers. Some of my peers also mentioned that they also experienced instances where the quality of teaching was below their expectations, so its important to take charge of your own learning.
Building a Network:
Being overseas, build a global network of friends and professional contacts. Most universities have clubs and societies that allow you to meet like-minded people. It's also nice to connect with fellow Singaporeans (or your local community) to feel closer back to home.
Personal Growth:
Studying abroad is a chance to develop independence, adaptability, and resilience, as you’ll be managing life in a new country on your own. Finances, Food, Chores, you name it. You've become the boss of your life!
6. Career Prospects
Industry Recognition:
Australian degrees are internationally recognised, which can enhance your career prospects globally, including in Singapore. The Go8 (Group of Eight Universities) are more highly ranked in the world QS / THE / AFR rankings. Furthermore, Go8 are recognised by statutory boards in Singapore.
Internships and Work Experience:
Many courses offer opportunities for internships, industry placements or research projects, which can provide valuable work experience. Have a think if the course and degree will provide a good return on investment in terms of future job opportunities and salary.
7. Support Systems
University & Community Support:
Check what support services the university offers for international students, such as academic assistance, career counseling, and mental health support.
There are also local Singaporean or Southeast Asian communities in Australia to provide a sense of familiarity and support during your time abroad. Of course, you will get a more well-rounded experience and immersion in Australian culture by befriending locals!
Staying Connected:
Where possible, stay in touch with family and friends in Singapore, as homesickness and stress due to changes in environment are common experiences for students studying abroad.
8. Post-Graduation Plans
Further Education:
If you are considering postgraduate studies, look into pathways for master’s or professional courses in Australia or elsewhere.
Work in Australia:
If you plan to work in Australia after graduation, research industries and sectors that have demand for your field of study.
Returning to Singapore:
Understand how your degree will be perceived in Singapore and explore job opportunities back home before graduating.
Conclusion
Studying for a bachelor’s degree in Australia as a Singaporean male with prior polytechnic education and military service can be a rewarding experience, but it requires careful planning. By considering factors such as academic pathways, financial planning, visa requirements, and future career prospects, you can make a well-informed decision about this significant life step. Proper preparation will not only help you maximise the value of your education but also ensure a smooth transition to living and studying in a new country. It might be hard at first, but it's gonna be a rewarding adventure filled with growth and learnings! If you're scared to take the risk and study abroad, remember that you can always buy a return ticket and head back home to Singapore. You never know what experiences and memories await you till you try.
A degree, is a degree. It does not guarantee you a job, and it is only a foot in the door. Of course, in terms of absolute rankings, local Singaporean universities outrank Australian universities. My why was simple: being able to experience different cultures, live independently, are just some of the few advantages to pursue further education overseas as these experiences and life skills are invaluable and cannot simply just be bought with money.