How to Apply as an International Student

Are you ready to apply to AIM? We’re here to help you every step of the way.

At AIM, you apply directly to us, all year round.

Not an international student? Find out the steps for a domestic student.

ⓘ Plan for your Student Visa Application

It’s important to understand the Australian student visa requirements. As an international student, you must meet the University’s entry requirements, including the English language requirements, as well as the Genuine Student (GS) requirement set by the Australian Government. You may also be asked to complete a GS assessment during the application process. Learn more about the GS requirements here.

Student visa applications are submitted online through the Australian Department of Home Affairs website. If you use an education agent, they can assist you (see below for a list of Authorized AIM International Representatives).

Before You Apply

1. Review Entry Requirements

Explore our wide range of courses, and review the entry requirements in the course overview section.

2. Check Key Dates

Look at the key dates for the trimester you want to start your study in so you leave plenty of time to submit all documentation.

Applying

3. Submit Your Application

Click the APPLY NOW button in the top right of the website to submit your application.

An AIM Agent Representative can do this on your behalf. Contact an agent representative to begin this process.

After You Apply

4. Prepare for an Audition or Submit Your Portfolio

After you submit your application, you will receive a confirmation email which includes portfolio guidelines and a link to upload your materials. Your audition and portfolio help us assess your suitability for the program and is your opportunity to demonstrate your talent and passion for music.

Read more about preparing for and booking an audition.

5. Accept Your Letter Of Offer

Once you have submitted your portfolio, you will be notified on the outcome of your application within 1 week. If successful, you will receive a Letter of Offer to be reviewed and signed. To secure your place, accept your offer by the deadline provided in the offer email.

6. Apply for a Student Visa

When you accept your AIM offer, you will need to make your first fee payment. Once payment is received, you’ll be issued an electronic Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), which you will need for your student visa application.

The final step in your journey is applying for your Australian Student visa.

Preparing to study in Australia

Travelling to Australia

Once you have your student visa, you can book your flights to Australia! You should arrange to arrive in time for your Orientation Week, which is the week before the first week of each study period, and the date of which you can find on your CoE.

australian institute of music, sydney campus

Helpful Information

When you’re granted a student visa, you have certain responsibilities. This includes maintaining Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your studies. Medical treatment can be expensive when you’re here on a visa. This compulsory insurance helps you cover the costs of any care you may need while here in Australia. Our admissions team can help organise your insurance. The Australian Department of Health website has more information.

Your living arrangements matter. Plan ahead as costs will vary depending on your lifestyle and personal needs. Remember, living expenses are separate from tuition fees and are your responsibility! For more accommodation information you can visit these sites to find rentals and get advice on accommodation:

Australia is an incredible place to live and work, but you will need to factor in the cost of living. The Insider Guides handy calculators will help you budget for cost of living expenses in Sydney and Melbourne.

When you arrive, getting a bank account is easy. You’ll need one to help you get around in your new home. Take your identification documents, proof of address and proof you’re studying with us, and your chosen bank will help with the rest!

Many international students seek work in Australia while studying to support their experience. Australian student visa holders may have restrictions on the number of hours that they can work. Some restrictions have been relaxed temporarily, you should always refer to the Department of Home Affairs to obtain the latest information or Study Australia.

All workers, including visa holders in Australia have workplace rights and entitlements. The Fair Work Ombudsman website has a useful fact sheet to help visa holders understand minimum rates of pay and conditions.

Rest assured, Australia leads the pack when it comes to international student rights, services and consumer protection. The Australian Government has a framework in place to make sure you get the most out of your time studying here. The Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act 2000 ensures you’re respected and that your studies are rewarding.

We hope you’ll never need to make a complaint, but if you do, the Overseas Student Ombudsman can help you. For information on how they investigate issues with private education and training providers in Australia, please visit the Overseas Student Ombudsman website.