The Iglu Guide | Blog
International students’ parents guide: what to expect
Australia is the perfect study destination for overseas students. But when it comes to leaving home and heading off to university, it marks the start of a huge change – not only for the student themselves, but the entire family. And with so much information and advice to absorb it can all feel very overwhelming, especially for parents. Parental support and guidance are crucial to students during this transitional period, and key to ensuring that your child is well set up for success during the changes ahead. Here’s how you can help.
Stay involved in the process
Faced with such a huge decision, students really appreciate having some parental wisdom on hand when it comes to choosing the right course at the right university. This is also a good opportunity for parents to learn something about the Australian education system themselves, along with what the academic expectation might be and whether it makes for a good fit. It is also emotionally reassuring to feel like a part of the process, and shows that your opinions are valued and respected. Even though your child may be moving overseas and becoming more independent, your role as a parent is in no way finished.
- Be available to help with paperwork and Visa applications
- Ask questions and get excited – but know when to give space
- Reassure them when doubt sets in, and remind why they chose this
- Talk about potential challenges
- Research all course and university options
- Discuss the benefits of studying in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane
Why Australia?
There are many reasons why over 700,000 students flock to Australia to study each year.
1. Safety and security
This is highly likely to be a top concern for most parents, and it’s reassuring to know that both Sydney and Melbourne feature in the Economist’s top 10 safest cities index. Measuring all things from education and health, to environment and infrastructure, these studies also take into account how well a city can handle urban disruption. More importantly, parents can be reassured that most Australian educational institutions will have comprehensive security in place on campus to ensure the safety of students and staff alike. Additionally, some purpose-built accommodation providers such as Iglu have 24/7 security as well as on-site support. This type of accommodation is often a parent’s preferred choice for international students living overseas.
2. The education
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. With six universities placed in the world’s top 50, Australia is widely recognised as a top international destination for students and an excellent pathway to career success.
3. The lifestyle
With sun, sea and sand on offer all year round, what’s not to love about living in Australia. From beachside suburbs to urban treats, Aussie cities are packed full of fun and experiences. Factor in an awesome public transport network and fantastic cultural opportunities, and it’s no surprise students cannot wait to get here.
4. Multicultural environment
Australia is proud of her cultural diversity and plays host to a range of festivals and celebrations across the year. This rich landscape also fosters innovation and creativity which enhances productivity and perspective on a daily basis.
Which type of student 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 research all the available options. Think about what would suit your child in terms of convenience, accessibility, location and comfort. Once you have a clear understanding of what might suit, you can start to investigate each individual option further.
- On campus accommodation: If you think your child will be happier staying as close to campus as possible, some Universities have college accommodation options available on site. This does not suit all students however, as some prefer to have the option to widen their network with an off-campus student community. They are also highly demanded, and spaces fill up quickly.
- Independent rentals: There are plenty of share houses or rental opportunities available to students all over Australia. This accommodation option creates a completely separate living arrangement from campus and draws a line of separation from the university environment. The cheaper options tend to be less well located and also have the responsibility of committing to a lease and separate bills. But it also comes with the advantage of truly independent living.
- 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. Offering private and shared accommodation options, they also have the benefits of a built-in student community on site. They are particularly well suited to international students as they offer an additional layer of security and reassurance for parents.
- Shared or private accommodation: Choosing between shared or private accommodation upfront could dictate the type of accommodation you choose. You might decide that you’re happy to share some facilities with other students, but not others. Living in a shared apartment somewhere like Iglu where you have a private bathroom is very different to an independent rental. Here, all facilities are likely to be shared so it’s important to understand the differences in advance. Some students prefer completely private accommodation, with the option to mix socially on their own terms.
- All-inclusive accommodation: With so much to think about when moving overseas, all-inclusive accommodation makes a lot of sense. All costs are wrapped up in one easy bill, meaning there’s less to worry about and more time to focus on settling in. Although these tend to be slightly more expensive options, that is offset by the pressure of finding independent accommodation, signing leases and sourcing separate utility providers. Each option has a different set of benefits that you should take time to explore with your child well in advance of arrival.
What will it cost?
With the cost of living impacting all cities around the world, living overseas is not cheap on the student pocket. Melbourne and Sydney have both experienced rising prices, with Brisbane remaining a cheaper student option. International students should budget for the following items:
- Visa costs (from $710)
- Tuition fees (vary by university and course – up to $45,000 for bachelor’s degree)
- Accommodation fees (vary by provider and provision)
- Stationery and books
- Travel
- Food and entertainment
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. And with accommodation in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane you’ll always find exactly what you need right where you need it.
- 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 accessibility, convenience living and staying connected.
- Facilities: With fantastic on site facilities all included such as movie rooms, communal areas, study rooms, 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 other students, life at Iglu means that you have an on-site readymade community just outside your door.
- Support: Qualified Iglu staff are always available to provide full support to students whenever required.
- All-inclusive: With all-inclusive costs set out upfront and just one easy bill to worry about, there are never any nasty surprises at the end of the Semester.
No need to wait around, jump online and book your Iglu experience today.
