At Swinburne, we understand that deciding to study overseas can be a big (but exciting!) decision to make. Here are our tips to ensure your international student application runs smoothly.

1. Check you’re eligible to be an international student

If you are not a citizen of Australia or New Zealand or an Australian permanent resident, then you’re classed as an international student for Foundation Year, UniLink diplomas, and undergraduate and postgraduate degrees.

For vocational education (TAFE) courses, you are an international student if you are not:

  • an Australian citizen
  • a permanent resident of Australia
  • an East Timorese asylum seeker
  • a Temporary Protection Visa (TPV) holder
     

If you are on a temporary visa (Student visa, Bridging visa, Business visa etc), you are considered an international student. 

If you want to know the estimated tuition fee for your course, visit fees for international students for more information.

2. Know your rights and responsibilities as an international student 

As an international student, you have rights and responsibilities when studying in Australia. It’s a good idea to familiarise yourself with these rights and responsibilities before you enrol.

This fact sheet explains the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) framework in a clear and simple way.

3. Find out about studying in Australia

When you choose to study in Australia you combine the adventure of traveling to a foreign country with the excitement of meeting new people and furthering your education.

Here’s why you should study in Australia as an international student. 

4. Choose your course

Select the course you’d like to study at Swinburne. Remember to take note of the course requirements and fees.

5. Check the entry requirements for your course

Each course has its own academic and English language requirements. Check them carefully to make sure you meet your course requirements.

If you need to improve your English language skills to meet the entry requirements, you can complete an English language course at Swinburne.

6. Provide your education and employment history

You need to provide your education and/or employment history with your application.

Make sure you have relevant information, including:

  • the name of your school
  • the year you graduated
  • the name of your employer (depending on your course)
  • your position title(s) (depending on your course).


7. Include relevant documents

You may also be required to submit documents to support your application. These can include:


8. Apply online! 

Now that you’ve completed the above steps, it’s time to apply to Swinburne through our international student portal.

Need help with your application? Contact our friendly team of course advisers.

If you’re unsure of anything, you can chat to us on +61 3 9214 8444 or meet a Swinburne representative in your home country.

Are you applying as an asylum seeker or refugee?

If you’re applying as an asylum seeker or refugee, your application process is different, and you may be eligible for the initiatives below if you’re on one of the following visas:

Need help with applying to Swinburne as an international student?

We have agents all over the world who can help you with your application to study at Swinburne — they can even meet you in your home country. 

Find a Swinburne representative