'I arrived late because of my visa': An Indian student shares the early challenges of studying in Australia

For many Indian students, the decision to study abroad is shaped by trial, revision, and uncertainty. For Anvitha Reddy, now pursuing a Bachelor of Design at Monash University in Australia, the journey began with keeping every option open, exploring multiple universities and courses before finally finding the program that best aligned with her passion and career aspirations.




“Initially, I applied to around 15 universities and I was keeping my options open,” she says. Over time, her focus narrowed. Australia stood out, and she began concentrating on institutions known for design education, particularly in Sydney and Melbourne.

The application process itself demanded persistence. “I was literally spending days and nights rewriting my SOPs, deleting, editing, and starting all over again,” she recalls. As a design applicant, she also had to prepare a portfolio, which added another layer of work. Once she shortlisted universities, she ensured she met all course requirements comfortably, not marginally, to strengthen her chances.

After research and guidance from counsellors, she narrowed her final choices to the University of Melbourne and Monash University. “I eventually got accepted into Monash, and that’s where I decided to go,” she says.

Arriving late and learning to catch up

Her transition to Australia did not begin smoothly. A visa delay meant she arrived after the academic process had already started. “I was quite lost on how to enrol in classes and navigate through the university portal,” she says.

Support from the university became essential at this stage. The University's support team helped her understand enrolment, systems and timelines. With her first semester nearing completion, she reflects on the experience with relief. “It’s been a learning experience, but also a very fulfilling one.”

Adjusting to a different academic system

Studying in Australia required an adjustment from the structured routine she was used to in India. “In India, school or college means five days a week, 9 to 4, and a very fixed routine,” she explains.

In contrast, the Australian system offered flexibility. Students could choose their classes and schedules. Anvitha attends university three days a week from 9 am to 2 pm, which allows her time to work part-time. This flexibility, she says, is one of the aspects she values most.

Working alongside studying

Anvitha currently works part-time at a digital marketing company called Traffic Radius. She works three days a week, from Wednesday to Friday, and earns around 600 dollars per month. “This really helps me improve in my skill and manage my finances,” she says.

She points out that finding field-specific roles can be difficult for students initially, while retail jobs are more accessible. Students also use many platforms to find work.

Her advice is practical rather than aspirational. Part-time work can help, but students need to understand the limits of what they can manage alongside academic commitments.

Understanding the real cost of living

Tuition fees and rent form the bulk of Anvitha’s expenses. She lives in a student accommodation that provides all three meals. This arrangement, she says, saves time and reduces daily stress. “This helps me skip my cooking part,” she explains, allowing her to focus on coursework and exploring the city.

Student accommodation in Australia typically costs between 400 and 900 dollars per week, depending on services. Anvitha pays 650 dollars per week, which includes food and laundry.

She stays at Scape, a centrally located student accommodation. The facility includes shared spaces such as study areas, laundry rooms and dining halls. For her, the biggest benefit has been consistency in daily routines and access to meals. “Zero stress and this actually helps me focus on uni and enjoying the city,” she says.

Building a social circle slowly

Social adjustment did not happen immediately. “I made no friends for like a week of landing here,” Anvitha admits. The turning point came through her accommodation’s common dining area. Seeing new people daily encouraged her to start conversations. “I made sure I speak to at least one person some how,” she says.

Making friends at university was slower. As a design student, she found many classmates focused on individual work. Over time, group projects and peer assignments created space for interaction and connection. Universities also hosted cultural events, which helped her feel more settled.

What she wishes she had known earlier

Looking back, Anvitha believes uncertainty is a normal part of the process. “It’s completely normal to feel lost in the beginning,” she says. She also challenges the idea that studying abroad is only about travel and enjoyment. According to her, it comes with responsibility, including managing time, finances, studies and work together.

Her advice to future international students is clear. Start early, research courses carefully and ask for help when needed. “People are much more supportive than you’d expect,” she says.

For Anvitha, the journey has been about learning to adapt rather than achieving instant comfort. The adjustment took time, but the process shaped how she studies, works and lives abroad.Ready to navigate global policies? Secure your overseas future. Get expert guidance now!