Tips on how to choose the best college in Sydney

Choosing the best college in Sydney can be a crucial decision for international students. These tips are just some pointers that can help them navigate their options and choose the right school.

Research about academic program offerings and reputation

One of the most important considerations in choosing a school is the range of programs they offer. Students need to ensure that their college choice matches their desired field of study and that the curriculum adequately prepares them for their career and industry goals. In terms of the college’s standing, students can review factors such as faculty expertise, accreditation, research opportunities and alumni success. Websites, rankings and testimonials can also provide valuable insights.

Consider campus environment and location

Being the region with the greatest number of international students, Sydney is home to culturally diverse neighbourhoods and campus environments. Students can reach out to people within the college, such as representatives or acquaintances who study there, for direct and authentic feedback regarding its atmosphere and vibe. It’s ideal for students to visit the campus to see if the environment suits them. They should also consider factors such as proximity to public transportation, safety, campus facilities and cultural activities. Preferences regarding urban versus suburban settings, climate and access to amenities are also important points to take into account.

Evaluate financial considerations

Cost is one of the most significant factors when it comes to international education. Aspiring students would often inquire about cheap colleges in Sydney Australia for international students. Affordability and value for money are sensible considerations, as choosing a college is a huge investment. To make well-informed decisions, students should research tuition fees, living expenses and available financial aid options such as scholarships, grants and work-study programs. They should also consider the cost of living in Sydney compared to other cities and weigh the benefits of attending a particular college versus others.

Assess support services for international students

International students may face unique challenges such as visa requirements, securing housing, language barriers and cultural adjustments. They should make the most use of support services, which educational recruitment agencies offer, as the information they provide is invaluable. These can greatly contribute to students’ understanding, helping them form educated decisions, while also receiving assistance throughout their whole application process.

List of colleges in Sydney for international students

upGrad GSP takes pride in its meaningful partnerships with some of the best colleges in Sydney. Here is a rundown of our partner colleges that offer world-class education:

• UTS College
• Trinity Anglican College
• Bond University College
• Perth International College of English
• Quality College of Australia
• Stanley College
• University of Queensland College
• University Senior College
• UNSW College
• UoW College, Australia
• Western Sydney College
• Western Sydney University The College
• Alana Kaye College
• Alma Mater College Australia
• Alphacrucis University College
• Australasian Lawrence Aged Care College
• Australian College of Management and
• Australian Harbour International College
• Australian Ideal College
• Australian National Airline College
• Australian Technical College Western Australia
• Canberra College of Management and Technology
• Capitol College
• Danford College
• ECA College of Health Sciences
• Eve College
• Everthought College of Construction
• Excelsia College
• Gateway Business College
• Global College Australasia
• International College of Management, Sydney
• Lead College
• Lyons College
• Macallan College
• Melbourne Metropolitan College
• Mint International College
• Newton College
• Oceania College of Technology
• Perth College of Business and Technology
• Sheffield College
• Skyline International College
• South Sydney College
• Strathfield College
• Sunshine Coast International College
• Sydney Metropolitan International College
• Texila College Australia
• The Institute of Creative Arts and Technology
• UEC Universal English College
• Western Sydney Technology College
• Australian College of Business Intelligence
• Southern English College

To learn more about higher education institutions in Sydney and their programs, and to get more information on how to support international students choosing Sydney for their tertiary education, contact our business development managers today!

The post Best colleges in Sydney for international students appeared first on upGrad GSP.

Student cap

The most significant Canada news for international students in 2024 revolves around a new cap on student permit applications for two years. When first reported, the cap for 2024 was set at 360,000 approved study permits—a 35% decrease from last year (650,000). But Canada’s Immigration Minister Marc Miller has revealed that the actual number of study permits available for college and undergraduate international students is approximately 292,000.

Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) clarified that cap-exempt study permits were included in the original estimate. It was also noted that the immigration minister doesn’t have statutory authority to limit the number of approved visas. It can only dictate the number of applications processed by IRCC. Minister Miller further affirmed this, stating “I can only cap the applications and not the actual issuance of visas. The way it works through the math is that we assume a level of acceptance and rejection at our level, and it churns out a bunch of visas. What we did was cap the intake at a certain level then we distributed it generally by population across Canada.”

Minister Miller also gave instructions to cap application processing at 606,250 permits. This excludes primary and secondary schools, as well as master’s and doctorate university programs. Current study permits will also not be affected. At an average approval rate of 60%, this still results in approximately 360,000 approved study permits this year.

Provincial attestation letter requirement

In other IRCC Canada news for international students, the department now requires a provincial attestation letter (PAL) from a province or territory for every study permit submitted to the department. IRCC urges provinces and territories to establish plans for issuing PALs by 31 March.

Individual provincial and territory caps have been established with the student permit cap, weighted by population. This means locations with the most unsustainable international student growth will experience more decreases. Accordingly, the provinces of Ontario, Quebec and British Columbia are expected to see the highest number of study permit allocations. This is because these three are the most populous provinces in Canada. IRCC shall allocate a portion of the cap to every province and territory. Each one will then distribute the allocation among their designated learning institutions (DLIs).

The PAL serves as evidence that the student has been accommodated within the given allocation under the national cap. The IRCC will reject applications without it unless exempted.

Adjusted PGWP duration

The latest immigration news in Canada for international students also involves the PGWP. This post-study work opportunity allows foreigners to remain in the country for employment after completing their studies.

Beginning 21 February, graduates of master’s degree programs are eligible to apply for a three-year post-graduate work permit. This applies to students who:

• have finished a program lasting less than two years
• meet all other PGWP eligibility criteria.

Previously, the length of a post-graduation work permit was solely based on the length of a student’s program. The government, however, acknowledges that these graduates demonstrate strong potential to thrive in the local job market. Thus, they have extended the duration of the PGWP, providing eligible candidates with enough opportunities to gain the needed work experience required for permanent residency applications.

For programs other than master’s degrees, the length of the PGWPs will stay the same. The maximum limit remains at three years.

PGWP eligibility for public-private partnership college programs

Starting 1 September, international students who begin a study program that is part of a curriculum licensing agreement will no longer be eligible for a post-graduation work permit.

Some provinces allow public colleges to license their curriculum for delivery through affiliated private colleges under a curriculum licensing agreement. Through this, students can attend a private college but earn a diploma from a public institution. These programs have been popular with international students in recent years. However, concerns about the quality of education offered and the insufficient support available to students, along with the lack of oversight, have been raised regarding these arrangements. To curb the enrolment of international students in these programs, the IRCC implemented the aforementioned PGWP limit.

Stay updated on Canada news for international students

Canada’s new measures surrounding international students have received mixed reactions. A majority of stakeholders are expressing concerns about their impact towards university enrollments and student experiences. Nonetheless, the policy changes reflect the country’s commitment to delivering safe and high-quality education to international students while promoting sustainable growth in the education sector.

Get in touch with our business development experts to keep up to date with the latest Canada news for international students.

The post Canada news for international students appeared first on upGrad GSP.

In this article, we’ll discuss what a CPT is, its benefits, eligibility requirements and the application process.

What is CPT?

Curricular practical training is defined as employment that’s directly related to a student’s major area of study and is an integral part of a school’s established curriculum. It’s an academic experience that includes:

• alternate work or study
• paid or unpaid internships
• a cooperative (co-op) education experience
• practicum participation
• on-campus work that may require additional authorisation.

CPT is only available before a student completes their degree program; it should occur before the end date listed on their Form I-20. The student should obtain their job opportunity at the time of application, and any employment must not delay the completion of their academic courses (i.e., students should maintain full-time enrolment or authorised reduced load even with their CPT). Authorisation is for one specific employer for a specified period. A student may possess than one CPT authorisation at the same time. However, they would need separate CPT authorisation for each employer and CPT segment.

Students can have either part-time or full-time CPT. Part-time CPT involves employment for 20 hours or less per week. Employment that exceeds 20 hours per week is considered full-time. It’s important to note that 12 months or more of full-time CPT may eliminate a student’s eligibility for optional practical training (OPT), which allows graduates to enjoy post-study work rights.

Who can apply for CPT?

A student is eligible for CPT if they:

• have an active F-1 visa status
• are enrolled at a Student Exchange and Visitor Program (SEVP)-certified college, university, conservatory or seminary
• have been lawfully enrolled for at least one year (three academic quarters) of full-time study in the US
• are making normal academic progress
• obtain a job or internship offer letter during the time of the CPT authorisation request
• are registered for CPT credits for the job or internship offer at the time of CPT authorisation request.

How to apply for CPT

Applying for CPT is a straightforward process, but it might differ depending on the university, so it’s best to check the specific steps and requirements per institution. That said, it generally follows the same procedure. Here’s an overview of how to apply for CPT:

1. Consult a student advisor

The student should speak to a student advisor in their university to find out about the available CPT programs at their institution. The counsellor should be able to give information about eligibility requirements and potential employers, as well as explain how the process works.

2. Take the necessary CPT courses

Before a student can take CPT, they typically have to complete a set of courses or a workshop to make them eligible.

3. Obtain a job or internship letter

The student can apply for a job or internship in their university’s CPT program. Once they have been accepted, they should get the corresponding letter of offer. The school will have a list of information that this letter should include, like the address of the employer and the period of work.

4. Apply for CPT authorisation

Along with the offer letter, the student should then compile all the necessary documents and apply for CPT authorisation through their school’s designated channels or portals. Common requirements include:

• academic recommendation for CPT
• detailed CPT description from the employer
• copy of the student’s current I-20
• printout of the student’s unofficial transcript or proof of enrolment.

Getting CPT authorisation may take a few days (even a couple of weeks!), so it’s recommended to plan ahead.

5. Coordinate with employer

Once the student’s CPT authorisation is approved, they should receive a physical or digital document outlining the details of the training. This should be printed and signed, and the student should make copies as required.

The student can then coordinate with their employer to finalise work arrangements and begin CPT. Note that a student may only begin their CPT after getting authorisation.

Assist students with CPT through Global Study Partners

Global Study Partners (GSP) is ready to help you guide students through their educational journey in the US. Speak to one of our business development experts to learn more about CPT and study opportunities for students in the country.

The post How to apply for CPT appeared first on upGrad GSP.

Benefits of post-study work rights for international students

Getting a post-study work permit is a great idea for international graduates who wish to gain practical experience and expand their professional network in the country in which they finished their educational program. Let’s break down the benefits that can be enjoyed with PSWR.

Experience

A post-study visa allows international students to earn money while working in a career adjacent to their field of study. This allows them to gain valuable working experience, enhancing future job prospects while giving them insight into their chosen industry.

Networking

PSWR gives people the chance to expand their professional network. Those with post-study work visas can work and connect with different individuals in a field. This opens up opportunities to build a solid career foundation. These relationships can also be helpful when they opt to venture out in the future.

Residency

For many international students, a post-study work visa is the best pathway to stay in a country long-term since it can lead to permanent residency or citizenship.

Eligibility requirements for post-study work rights

The eligibility requirements for PSWR will depend on the host country. Here are quick guides on post-study work in key study-abroad destinations.

PSWR in the US

The F1, M1 and J1 visas are the 3 different types of student visas through which one can apply for PSWR in the USA. The M1 and J1 visas give a grace period of 30 days to stay in the country. The F1 visa lets international students stay in the country for up to 12 months after completing their studies. It’s the most convenient way to apply for a post-study work permit.

F1 visa holders are eligible to apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT). This allows them to stay and work in the USA for an entire year in temporary employment directly related to their major area of study. A student can receive OPT employment authorisation before (pre-completion) or after (post-completion) he or she completes their studies. Application for pre-completion OPT can be done after receiving full-time enrolment in a certified educational institution (with a course duration of at least 12 months). Once authorised, eligible applicants can work part-time for a maximum of 20 hours per week as a student and full-time during the holidays. Application for post-completion OPT is only available after a program is finished.

Students who hold a degree in STEM courses from an accredited university can also apply for an OPT extension within 1 year. Those who didn’t finish a STEM degree but wish to extend their OPT can use a past degree from a USA school of higher education. However, they must not already possess an OPT extension for that. Additionally, their job opportunity must align with that field of study. They must also work for an employer enlisted in the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) e-verify employment eligibility verification program.

PSWR in Canada

The post-graduation work permit program (PGWP) allows students to stay in Canada to gain work experience, which can support one’s application for permanent residency. To obtain post-study work rights in Canada, a candidate must:

• have graduated from an eligible Canadian designated learning institution (DLI)
• currently hold valid temporary status or have left Canada
• submit evidence of completion of an academic, vocational or professional training program from a DLI that’s at least eight months in duration leading to a degree, diploma or certificate
• show proof that you have maintained full-time student status in Canada during each academic session of your program (with exceptions concerning a leave from studies or the final academic session)
• give evidence that you have received a transcript or an official letter from the eligible DLI confirming that you’ve completed the requirements of your program.

Within 180 days of the date of application for a PGWP, the applicant must also either hold a valid study permit, have held a study permit or have been authorised to study in Canada without the requirement to obtain a study permit.

PSWR in Australia

PSWR in Australia is classified under the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485). It’s available for international students whose visas are about to expire but who want to work to resume their stay in the country. To be eligible for PSWR in Australia, a student must:

• be under 50 years old
• have applied for and have been granted your first student visa on or after 5 November 2011
• hold an eligible visa and have held a student visa in the last 6 months
• have a recent degree in a CRICOS (Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students)-registered course
• have evidence of adequate health insurance during the application
• provide evidence that you have applied for an AFP check during the application
• comply with English language proficiency requirements.

The list of eligible occupations, qualifications and courses is based on skills shortage. Officials monitor and review it annually to reflect changes in the labour market.

Under the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485), there are two types of PSWR: the post-study work stream and the graduate work stream. The post-study work stream is the most used. It allows fresh graduates to stay and work in Australia for two to six years. The graduate work stream is for students who have successfully graduated from an Australian university or college. It allows them to live, study and work in Australia for up to 21 months (or up to five years for British National Overseas or Hong Kong passport holders). It also permits them to bring immediate family to stay with them in the country.

PSWR in the UK

The Post Study Work (PSW) or Graduate Route visa in the UK is open to international students who have completed an eligible course of study at a recognised institution. They must also be able to show that they can support themselves financially during their stay in the country. One can apply for a UK post-study work visa if they:

• presently reside in the UK
• currently hold a Student visa or Tier 4 (General) student visa
• studied a UK bachelor’s degree, postgraduate degree or other eligible course for a minimum period (at least 12 months if your course is longer than a year or the whole term if it’s shorter than 12 months) with your Student visa or Tier 4 (General) student visa
• have an education provider (i.e. university or college, which must be a licensed sponsor with a “track record of compliance”) that has confirmed their course completion to the Home Office.

A person who completed a degree in a non-English language may also need to take up IELTS and score within the band of 6.5 in each of the exam’s four components.

A candidate is also eligible for PSWR in the UK if they have completed any of the following:

• a law conversion course approved by the Solicitors Regulation Authority
• the Legal Practice Course in England and Wales, the Solicitors Course in Northern Ireland or a Diploma in Professional Legal Practice in Scotland
• the Bar Practice Course in England and Wales or the Bar Course in Northern Ireland
• a foundation programme in medicine or dentistry
• a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE), or
• a Postgraduate Diploma in Education (PGDE).

PSWR is also available to those who passed a course that made them eligible for work regulated by UK law or a UK public authority.

PSWR in Ireland

After graduating with a bachelor’s or postgraduate degree in Ireland, one can get a post-study work permit to remain and work in the country. To be eligible for PSWR in Ireland, an applicant must:

• have obtained your degree or term of study from an accredited Irish university
• have written confirmation from your educational institution that you’ve completed your course of study
• hold a valid stamp and two student visas
• have complied with laws of the state while studying
• have at least two more years of studying left (international students can enrol in courses in Ireland for up to eight years).

There are three available post-study facilities available: the Critical Skills Employment Permit, the General Employment Permit and the Internship Employment Permit. Each comes with its own set of eligibility criteria. Let’s dive deeper into the types of PSWR permits.

Critical skills employment permit

The critical skill visa is granted to people who obtain employment on Ireland’s skill shortage list. To be eligible for this permit, the candidate’s employer must be licensed in Ireland, must have a confirmed two-year job offer (or have been with your current business for at least a year) and should be receiving a minimum base remuneration of 32,000 EUR per year.

General employment permit

The general employment permit lets one work anywhere in Ireland as long as it’s not on the list of ineligible occupations, pays a minimum of 30,000 EUR annually and has qualifications or experience following the Labour Market’s need test (12-month contractual work is eligible). This permit is valid for two years and can be extended for three years. If the applicant has reached five years of work and stays under it, he or she can file for permanent residency.

Internship employment permit

The internship employment permit is for full-time students enrolled in an Irish institute who wish to apply for an internship. With it, a person may apply and work for a business after completing their Master’s degree. The job should be on the Critical Skills Employment/Occupations list. It must also be adjacent to their course of study, with a salary that’s at least national minimum pay. Once the internship is finished, the student must leave the state and return to the institute to complete their education.

Offering pathways to PSWR

PSWR is a great opportunity for international students to gain professional experience, build a network and launch a career in the country where they studied. It’s also a convenient way towards permanent residency if one would like to remain in their host country.

To know more about your options for PSWR and our partner institutions in the US, Canada, Australia, Ireland and the UK, check out our platform or reach out to our Business Development Managers today!

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