How to Study in Australia after SMA 1/2 for Indonesian Student?

Australia is famed for its open spaces of outback bushes, koalas, kangaroos, and clean air and water. But there is much more Australia has to offer! The land of kangaroos is fast becoming a preferred education destination for many Indonesian students. Majorly because of the country’s high-quality education, multicultural society, easy access to student support services, incredible nature, vibrant cities, and a fantastic lifestyle.

Although some of Australia’s institutions are relatively young compared to US’s Harvard or UK’s Oxford, institutions such as Australian National University, University of Melbourne, University of Queensland, University of Sydney and Monash University are ranked up there with the best. Times Higher Education World University Ranking places 6 of Australian universities among the world’s top 100 universities.

And as demand for innovative thinkers and entrepreneurial minds grows, Australian education institutions have re-engineered their teaching practices to inspire creativity, independent-thinking, and innovation among students. It, therefore, comes as no surprise that many Indonesian Students are preferring to Study in Australia after SMA 1 or 2.

Why Study in Australia for Indonesian Students?

Australia is a vibrant, dynamic country with super-friendly people. The country provides a safe and friendly society where you can live, learn and travel freely. The living standards here are among the highest in the world. Besides, if you decide to study in Australia after SMA 2, you’ll get excellent value for money.

Let’s look at a few reasons why you should consider Australia if you’re looking for a place to take your academic career to a higher level:

Top-quality universities

Australia is home to 43 top-quality universities. You’ll, therefore, be spoilt for choice when looking for an institution to study in Australia.

Gain work experience while you study

Australia provides international students with an opportunity to work while studying. You also have a chance to extend your stay and work with some of the leading Australian companies after completing your degree. This exposure builds up your experience significantly.

Access extensive student support services

The Australian government has invested heavily in education. While you settle in your new life, you can expect to receive a great support service and access elaborate international students benefits such as scholarships and a chance for permanent residency after your studies.

Live and study in safety

Aussies are friendly and warm people. Their cities and towns are some of the safest in the world. You’ll have a variety of accommodation options to choose from including homestays, private rentals, purpose-build student villages, and share-houses among others.

Enjoy a high standard of living

Australia has superior healthcare, education, transport, and government services that are well above international averages. You’ll be studying in a country with a strong, globally competitive economy.

Study in globally recognized institutions

If you choose to study in Australia after SMA 1 or 2, you can be sure that your training is well recognized across the globe, hence giving you a vantage point when looking for employment.

Less visa red-tapism

Unlike the UK and the US, the Australian visa has less high-handedness during applications.

Overview of the Australian Higher Education System

Here are a few things you need to know when applying to study in Australia for Indonesian Student:

1. The Basics

As earlier mentioned, Australia is home to some of the top universities in the world. With over 43 universities and 40 vocational colleges, you can study is some of the big names, including:

• University of Melbourne
• University of Sydney
• Australian National University
• Monash University
• University of Queensland
• University of Western Australia
• University of New South Wales
• University of Adelaide
• James Cook University
• University of Technology

All these universities have well-established performance records. You can choose from thousands of courses that are internationally recognized. Some of the most sort after courses in these institutions include Engineering, Psychology, Economics, Business and Social Sciences.

The Australian academic year is split into two 10-weeks long semester and one summer break. The first semester runs from late February to end May while semester 2 starts in July and ends sometime in October.

2. What to Study in Australia after SMA 1 or 2

Since Australian Education Institutions offer a variety of courses, choosing one that suits you best can be daunting. It is important to do thorough research or talk with an education consultant before making your final decision.

Some of the most common foundation courses to study in Australia after SMA 1 or 2 include:

• Foundation in science
• Foundation in business
• Foundation in Commerce/accounting
• Foundation in computer science & IT
• Foundation in health science
• Foundation in engineering

After these introductory pathways, you can either go for a:

• Bachelor’s/ Doctorate degree that runs for 3-4 years.
• A master’s degree can take between 1 to 4 years.
• Combined double degree.

3. Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing what to study in Australia after SMA 1 or 2:

Consider your career path

First think about your strengths, interests, and ambitions. Are they relevant to a certain career? If you’re not sure what you’d like to study, talk to an education consultant or Australian University rep in Indonesia.

Search for all options

Start by looking at broad fields of study before narrowing down to what you’d want to pursue. Consider the qualification requirements for your options and check if you’re eligible by visiting the university’s site.

Think about which course is best suited for you

Narrow down your options and look at what each individual course is offering. What are the subjects of the study? What will be your specializations? Check if you’re eligible for admission to that course.

Consider location

Just like in Indonesia, the cost of living here depends on the city. Different cities and towns in Australia offer different experiences. Some cities such as Sydney can be more expensive to live in as compared to smaller townships such as Canberra. Deicide if you’re looking for a vibrant city life, a peaceful, laid back town life or a sunny coastal life. Look at the location of various institutions and go for the one that appeals to you most.

Make an Informed Decision

Having considered all these factors, you should be able to decide which institution fits you well. Once you’ve settled on a few institutions, send out your applications. Be sure to check the academic and English language entry requirements to check your eligibility.

Most application forms for foundation studies program will require you to provide:

• Your personal details
• Details of your previous academic qualifications (Completion of SMA 2 with a min avg. 7.0 in academic subjects)
• Certified level of English language proficiency. This can either be Pearson Test of English, TOEFL, IELTS or Cambridge English: Advanced.
• Your course preference.
• Any other details such as employment experience where applicable.
• A refundable application of between AUD$50-$100 depending on the institution.

Once your application has been accepted, you’ll need to process your visa with the local Australian Visa office. International students are also required to have an Overseas Student Health Cover from approved health funds before admission.

Requirements for a Study in Australia Visa

If you’re looking to Study in Australia for a foundation studies program after SMA 2, you’ll require to apply for a student visa (subclass 500) at the Australian consulate. This can only be done once you’ve been accepted to study in a particular Australian Institution. You can check your eligibility for a study in Australia Visa on Australian Home Affairs website. Some of the Visa requirements include:

• Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from your education provider
• Overseas Student Health Cover (OHSC)
• Accommodation arrangements for students under 18 years
• Proof that you can cover your travel costs, course tuition and living costs for you and your family during your stay in Australia.
• Copies of your academic and qualification records
• Proof of good conduct
• Proof of good health
• English language proficiency
• Proof that you’re a genuine temporary entrant
• The application can cost about A$550 as a one-time fee.

Are You Looking To Study in Australia after SMA 1 or 2?

If you’ve completed your SMA 1 or 2 and would like to study an undergraduate degree in some of the leading Australian universities, foundation studies will get you there. You can either take a foundation program along either of these four major disciplines: Commerce/Business, Arts/Humanities, Science/Engineering or Design and Arts. These programs can take anywhere between 10 weeks to 12 months. Contact us today if you need any help on how to study in Australia for Indonesian Student after SMA 1 or 2.