Are you considering a career in the fitness industry and planning to study in Australia? Well before you do so, it’s important to have a good understanding of the student visa requirements in order to pursue your education and build a thriving career. In 2022, there were over 619,000 international students on student visas in Australia, up from 8% compared to 2021. As a personal trainer, studying in Australia can provide you with opportunities to learn from industry professionals, gain hands-on experience, and build a robust network.
Why study in Australia?
Students from all over come to Australia to undertake courses every year. But what is it that draws international students to study there? Australia is widely recognised as having one of the best-designed education systems globally, with eight universities in the global ranking of Top 100 QS World University Rankings in 2023.
Australia is home to some of the best fitness institutes and is known for its personal training courses. Studying in Australia can equip you with the right opportunities to learn the latest industry knowledge, advanced techniques, and practical skills needed for you to excel in your career in this booming industry.
Visa types for international students
There are two different types of student visas available for international students in Australia:
- Student Visa (Subclass 500) — for all courses registered under CRICOS (courses registered for international students);
- Student Visa (Subclass 590) — for the student’s guardian (Guardian Visa) if a student is less than 18 years old (this visa does not allow them to work).
Between the two visas, you will specifically need to get the Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study, live and work in Australia for a maximum of five years, in line with the course you intend to take. While on this visa, you will also be allowed to work for a maximum of 40 hours per fortnight during term time, and unlimited hours during study breaks. (With the effect of 1 July 2023, the number of work hours allowed during study terms and semesters will be capped at 48 hours per fortnight.) So if you’re looking for a chance to step foot into the fitness industry, you can use this to gain valuable experiences while studying.
To be eligible for the international student visa, you will need to meet certain specific requirements. Here are some of the key ones you should know:
- Be aged 6 years or older;
- Be enrolled in a course of study in Australia and provide evidence of enrolment;
- Meet English language requirements;
- Meet Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirements;
- Proof of sufficient funds;
- Have an Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC);
- Meet health & character requirements.
The current fee to apply for this visa type costs 650 AUD (unless exempted). However, it’s important to note that this price may vary depending on the location where you are applying for your student visa, whether it’s in Australia or outside the country. Additionally, it takes time for your application to be processed, so it’s advisable to allow plenty of time to apply for it and avoid waiting until the last minute. As such, you should apply for your visa at least 8 weeks before the commencement of your course.
Process of getting your student Visa
Before applying for your student visa, you will need to gather several documents. The process of obtaining your student visa in Australia involves the following:
- Provide evidence of your English language proficiency
As Australian educational courses are taught in English, you will need to meet the English language requirements in order to gain entry into the course. If you’re not a native English language speaker, you’ll need to provide certificates of results from an approved English language test to be granted the visa.
- Apply to an educational institution and receive your enrolment
To apply for your visa, you must first be accepted into an Australian study program course. After receiving an offer from your school, you will need to accept it and pay the tuition fees before the Confirmation of Enrolment, otherwise known as COE, is sent to you.
- Apply for your student visa online
Set up an account on the Australia Department of Home Affairs website and apply for your student visa online. Creating an account will also allow you to track the status of your application. In this process, you’ll be required to attach documents such as your passport details, confirmation of enrolment from your educational institution, proof of Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and proof of your temporary stay in Australia.
- Submit your visa application and pay the fees
Once you have paid your visa fees, keep in mind that the fees are non-refundable in the event your visa application gets refused. So it’s important to double-check that you are applying for the correct visa type and submit your application early.
- Attend a visa interview or health check-up review (if required)
After completing the visa application, you should respond to any requests for information promptly, including a possible visa interview or health check-ups. Regularly log into your account to check for messages from the Department as well.
After successfully obtaining your student visa, it’s crucial that you comply with the visa conditions, including maintaining full-time course enrolment, ensuring satisfactory course attendance, and satisfactory course progress. For more detailed information regarding your student visa application, visit here.
In a nutshell
If you’re an aspiring fitness professional looking to pursue an education in fitness in Australia, it’s crucial that you first understand the student visa requirements for studying in the country. Take the first step of building yourself a rewarding career in the fitness industry by enrolling in Fit Education’s PTE courses, where you will receive guidance from industry leaders like Dundee and Jeff, and stand to gain a competitive edge in the market and establish yourself as a successful personal trainer.
To learn more about PTE programs for fitness that are available in Australia, click here and enrol today!