phobia

First off, I hope this is in the correct section.

Well, I'm thinking of studying in Australia. I've read the information on the IMMA site but I still have a few questions.

I know you have to study full time but it doesn't say at what level you have to study at, i.e., would I have to study for a degree or could I study for a lesser qualification? Do you only have to study or are there training programs available too.

If the course only lasts for a year, would I be allowed to stay onshore and apply for a bridging visa then a skilled visa after the year is up?

Sorry for all the questions, but I have one more.. Are there any employers in Australia that actually look for people overseas to employ and sponsor?

I'm guessing I'll have to talk to a specialist with regards to all my questions and see what s/he has to say, but I thought I'd ask here too.

Thanks for your time, and if I've missed out any details you might want to know, please ask.

chris96

You can study for any course as long as it's registerd for international students, this includes vocational level. If the course has 900 hr's hands on training in the program you can apply for skilled visa as long as its on the list, like hairdressing.

YoSemite

You don't need to study for a degree qualification... there are different sub categories of student visas for the different types of courses

You need to be "in class" for a minimum of 20 hours per week, and can only work (both paid and voluntary jobs) for 20 hours per week during term time, unlimited during the breaks.

To apply for a skilled visa on the basis of any qualification you get from study in australia, you need to study for a minimum of 2 academic years.

you should also check if the course you plan to do will get you a positive skills assessment for immigration. A guy on my other half's course is convinced that he can use his TAFE advanced diploma in accounting to get a PR Visa as an accountant, as the AD entitles you to join the National Institute of Accountants. OH has tried explaining to him that he will actually need a Bachelors Degree in accountancy to get the positive skills assessment, as we checked this before we decided to come over as students

phobia

Thank you both for your replies. I now have a lot more research to do, but I know now what I should be looking at and what questions to ask. All I need now is £10k

YoSemite

geez if that's all you need you're lucky... my course fees alone are over £40k!