Category: Iglu

So, you’re heading off to University and thinking of studying overseas? There is much to consider when selecting your next pathway that extends way beyond simply choosing a course. With a significant existing international student body, Australia has long been the popular destination of choice for overseas study alongside the UK and America – made even more favourable by a relatively simple visa process. 

With only a confirmation of course enrolment, proof of financial security and approved English language skills required before a Visa can be issued, this ease of transition holds great appeal for many applicants. Additionally, students are attracted by the friendly laid-back Aussie nature, the high standard of living and the excellent educational outcomes to name but a few benefits on offer.  But there are many more reasons beyond these that make Australia a destination of choice for tertiary study. Here’s why. 

1. The Aussie lifestyle

Australia has always been an appealing location for international students, primarily for the renowned beachy lifestyle and consistently sunny climate. Tag on the stunning scenery, diverse wildlife and extensive travel opportunities and it all makes sense. With each Australian city boasting a high liveability factor, you can expect strong education, healthcare and reliable infrastructure as well as an excellent public transport network, social stability and a varied cultural landscape.  From rainforest to reef, from city to country, this is the land that has a little piece of everything – including a spirited people with a welcoming and contagious passion for all things Aussie. Australia consistently delivers an exceptional quality of life with weather to match. It’s the perfect environment to settle in and fully enjoy your student years. 

2. Global recognition

Australia delivers one of the best education systems in the world, and returning to your homeland with an Australian degree is an excellent pathway to further career success. But whilst rankings are an important measurement to consider when choosing a University, they should not be viewed in isolation when making your final decision. Some universities may overall score highly in the world rankings, but they may not always be the best choice for your particular course.   Australia’s Group of Eight member Universities all sit in the world’s top 150 Universities (2025), with University of Melbourne placing in the top 10 for Law. Similarly in other countries there are elite institutions that carry great weight through reputation alone, such as the UK’s Russell Group and the American Ivy League. Check out which college best delivers your course choice and then balance it back out against all the other factors that go hand-in-hand with student living such as lifestyle and affordability 

3. Course structure

Australia offers a wide variety of institutions and educational courses so there will be little problem finding one that suits you best. Additionally, it’s relatively easy to move between institutions should the first choice not work out. With a world-renowned reputation for innovation and progression, Australia has unrivalled facilities for research, teaching and training with an enduring commitment to providing quality education.   Courses are structured to support your subject choice from the outset. Outside of Australia it is common to find courses that begin with a spread of subjects. These require you to study across multiple disciplines before finally narrowing your choice down, as opposed to commencing with a singular subject election. So, if you are decided and keen to begin in your chosen field, Australia is the obvious choice. 

4. Measurement

It is worthwhile understanding how your performance will be measured before committing to a University, as you may find a particular system to suit your learning methods better. Australian institutions tend to carry a broad approach to performance measurement that combines individual assessment results across the semester, with regular exam periods. The expectation is that students independently manage their workload, supported by lectures and smaller group tutorials.   This system allows for critical thinking to develop within a supported environment, with opportunities to evaluate understanding along the way. In American institutions, most course assignments will contribute to the final mark with traditional exams also factoring into the result. In the UK, different again, the outcome is more dependent on a final exam or essay as opposed to coursework. 

5. The fees

There are certainly some financial considerations to take into account as an international student, such as higher tuition fees on top of the usual living expenses that occur when living away from home. City living can be expensive, but if you can stick to a budget and prepared to make careful decisions, anywhere you choose to study is a viable option.   The cost of studying in Australia is favourably comparable to institutions within the UK and USA, with the additional possibility of scholarships available to offset costs. To find out your potential fees as an Australian international student, click here. 

6. Ability to work

For those students that wish to supplement their income by working, the International student visa permits 48 hours of work per fortnight (equivalent to approximately three days per week) in term time, with no restriction in the holidays. This is a great way to ease the cost of living, immerse in your environs or gain work experience relevant to your degree subject. With a decent minimum wage of $23.23/hr – compared to AUD$18.06/hr in the States and AUD$21.72/hr in the UK, choosing Australia for University study is actually a no-brainer.

Ready to take the next step?

With university entry now just around the corner, there is a huge change ahead that affects not only prospective students, but also the whole family around them. 

It’s a transitional time for all involved and with so much information and advice to absorb it can start to feel a little overwhelming. And that goes for the parents too! Your support and interest is invaluable during this period and having a stable and settled environment at home can be crucial in helping your child set up for the changes ahead. 

Whether it’s teaching them to cook, shopping on a budget or learning how to work the washing machine, there is plenty parents can do to ensure the switch is a seamless experience. Getting involved in research around universities and courses, accommodation options and visa applications is a good way to stay involved in the process and understand the different pathways available.  But if you’re feeling a bit confused by it all, don’t worry you’re not alone. Here’s what you need to know. 

Why Australia?

Australia is renowned for its fantastic weather and lifestyle, but your first priority is most likely centred around safety and security – particularly if your child is planning on overseas study. 

Here in Australia, you are in good hands. Australian cities are regularly featured in the top ranking for liveability and safety.. These statistics measure all things from stability, healthcare, culture and environment, education, and infrastructure. 

At a more basic level, it’s reassuring for parents to also be aware that most Australian educational institutions will have comprehensive security in place on campus to ensure the safety of students and staff alike. The benefits don’t stop there! Globally recognised as having one of the best education systems in the world, Australia also offers a wide variety of courses as well as research, training and teaching facilities. Incoming students are well supported during O-Week where they have many fantastic opportunities to join clubs and societies based around current or new interests, and a healthy living approach is encouraged and supported in terms of diet and exercise.  And with so much natural beauty and landscape on offer, the outdoors alone is reason enough to choose Australia with plenty of opportunities to travel and explore in the holidays.  

Which type of accommodation?

There are many different types of student accommodation on offer that cater for a range of different needs. As parents you will know your child best and can help guide their thoughts around the most appropriate choice. Firstly, it is a good idea to identify what the needs are in terms of location, transport, convenience and comfort. Once you have broken this down you can start to investigate the options. 

• Independent rentals: There are plenty of share houses or rental opportunities available. These enable a completely separate living arrangement and draw a line of separation from the university environment. 
• Independent living with added security benefits: For those students who enjoy independent living but still require a safe and secure environment there are many purpose-built accommodation opportunities like Iglu available. These also have the benefits of a built-in student community on site. 
• On campus: If you think your child is best served staying as close to campus as possible, some Universities have accommodation options available on site.   

Above all, as a parent you will want the complete reassurance that student safety and security is a top priority.

Why Iglu?

Iglu provides a unique accommodation proposition for students in that we think like parents, and act on behalf of students. With student safety right at the top of the agenda, we understand that parents want their children to have the full student experience – but to know that they are always in safe hands. And that’s where Iglu steps in. Iglu accommodation bridges that gap between the family home and complete independence, whether you choose a share apartment or private accommodation. 

• Safety: With 24/7 security, secure entry and onsite assistance, parents can be completely reassured of any concerns associated with independent living. 
• Location: All Iglu buildings are centrally located close to universities and transport links because we understand the importance of convenience living. 
• Facilities: With fantastic facilities included on site such as communal areas, study areas, gyms and BBQs, our focus is centred on creating a home away from home for all our students. 
• Community: With regular opportunities to socialise and integrate with others, life at Iglu means that you have an on-site ready-made community. 
• Support: Iglu fully supports all of our residents and has qualified staff on hand to help out whenever required. 
• All-inclusive: With all-inclusive costs set out upfront, there are no nasty surprises at the end of the Semester.  

Want to know more?

Home to some of the world’s best universities with a fantastic climate to match, it is no wonder that Australia has become much sought after by students from around the world as a study destination of choice. If you are thinking about heading overseas to Australia for your University placement, you’re certainly not alone. And although the visa application process has recently become much more simplified and easier to navigate, there are a few ways to make sure your visa application runs as smoothly as possible. Give yourself a head start with this simple checklist. 

1. Make sure you can meet the initial requirements. 

It sounds obvious, but there a few basic boxes that need ticking up front such as English language competency, financial stability and academic achievement. Officials will also want reassurance that you are a genuine temporary entrant (GTE) and intend to return home when your study is complete. Check here for your eligibility. 

2. Is your institution CRICOS registered? 

The institution you have selected for study has to be legally registered as an education provider for overseas students. This listing provision is known as the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS). If your institution does not feature on the list, your visa application will be invalid. 

3. Are you using the correct application procedure? 

Ensure that your application fits the process required by your individual institution. Some require entry specifically via an agent, whereas others are happy with direct applications. If there is any doubt, contact them directly for guidance. 

4. Check that your chosen course fits the visa requirements 

Overseas student visas require that courses run for a minimum of 3 months and fall into a specific level of education. Evidence must be provided that the course is considered full time. 

5. Have you received your CoE? 

Before applying for your visa, ensure that you have completed your course enrolment and have received a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). You will need this reference for your visa application as proof of acceptance onto your course.

6. Get a health check 

Your visa requires that you meet specific health requirements. This may mean that a health check is required, particularly if you are coming from a country where there are public health concerns. If you think this could apply to you, you can save time by having this done in advance. You will also be required to obtain health insurance for the duration of your studies. This is available from a list of approved Australian providers. 

7. Be prepared 

Have everything ready and on hand before you apply so you can log in to your immi account and fulfil the application in one sitting. Store digital copies as well as photocopies of all your documentation so that you always have access to what you might need. Check and recheck for little errors – it’s just not worth having anything hold up the process. Check here to make sure you have all your documentation. 

8. Prepare prepare prepare 

Just like when you apply for a job, the interview part is that crucial stage which everything finally rests upon. Reassure yourself by knowing your application thoroughly and be prepared to answer questions. They could range from why you want to study in Australia, about the particular course you have selected, how you will manage financially and what you plan to do afterwards. Have a few practise runs at it with friends or family so that on the day you are confident and relaxed. 

9. Is there sufficient room in your passport?

Although the visa itself will only take up one page, you will need at least 4-6 blank pages otherwise you may be required to renew the passport before the visa can be approved. This will further delay the process as well as adding to the expense. 

10. Allow as much time as possible 

Visa administrative procedures are unpredictable at best, and if the visa is not approved on time you will not be able to start your course. It is a much less stressful process if you can allow as much time as possible to account for any delays and amendments – rather than feel under time pressure as the Semester approaches.

And now relax!

You have done everything you can in the application process. As you wait for the outcome, it’s a good time to start thinking about where you will live. Check out our advice on what to look for in student accommodation.

Ready to take the next step? 

Is it important to you to be close to university, or are you happy to travel each day? Do you enjoy having a like-minded community close at hand or do you crave solitude? Is it nice to have the odd amenity or are convenience and accessibility simply non-negotiable? We all have different needs and requirements, and what works well for one may feel inconceivable to another.  Here are 6 key considerations that can help you decide what exactly you are looking for – and what might best fit your needs. 

1. Location

If you know you’re the type of student that doesn’t necessarily always leave enough time to get to lectures, or simply enjoys the convenience of everything on your doorstep, then location will be a key consideration. Being situated close to transport and amenities means having an easier life – and more time to enjoy the bits in between.  

2. Community feel

Feeling part of a community will form one of the most enjoyable aspects of your time at uni. Living and studying amongst like-minded individuals creates experiences, memories and networking opportunities. Achieving a balance of enough quiet time for study and enough time to let off steam creates the perfect blend of work and social time. 

3. Safety first

It’s crucial to feel safe and secure in your new home away from home. Check that your accommodation choice has in-built security measures such as CCTV, 24/7 onsite assistance and secure key entry. 

4. Company

Do you prefer your own space? Will you want to share your living space with friends, or maybe meet some new ones? Decide on your preferences and then work out where they can best be accommodated. Don’t feel pressured to just do what your friends might decide, this is your opportunity to make your own choices. 

5. Settling in benefits

If you’re keen to get stuck into university life, check out what is on offer that will help you settle in and get involved. Are there events or activities timetabled that draw the community together? How can you meet fellow students? Also consider what support is available for those times when life is not running as smooth as you might like. 

6. Budget

It’s also important to understand what you can actually afford. Read the small print carefully and check out inclusions such as utilities and wi-fi usage to avoid any unwelcome surprises when the bill arrives. 

Types of accommodation

Whilst it might seem like there is a minefield of confusing information available, accommodation options are really very simple once you have decided what you want. When you have identified what will best suit your needs, you can then focus in on that particular sector. Let’s break it down. 

On campus

Many universities have their own accommodation. These are usually on, or very close to campus and often have university staff members living on site. You can choose from a number of single or share options and even have all your meals catered for. While this option may offer a little less independence, it does bring a built-in social scene with students all from the same university – which also means plenty of distractions are available at all times. Some on-campus options have a few rules and regulations so be sure to check these out too. 

Off campus

If you like the idea of being supported by like-minded individuals but would prefer to get away from campus at the end of each day, Purpose Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) like Iglu is for you. Blending an offering of independence within a safe and secure environment, PBSAs are perfect for those who enjoy a variety of people alongside a wide choice of amenities and social opportunities. Usually positioned in great locations, PBSAs offer convenience and accessibility across all areas of student life. 

Independent rental

If you prefer to be fully independent of home and university, there is the traditional option of renting a house alone, or with friends. This would involve taking responsibility for the rental lease (usually for a minimum of a year) as well as signing up for utility providers such as telephone, internet, electricity and gas. 

Share house

For those who prefer a smaller pool of company to enjoy, renting a room in an established share house is also an option. It’s a good way to meet new people and allows full independence without taking on the responsibility of the lease. 

Want to live at Iglu?