Job search tips for international students

Before you go job hunting, find out what your visa restrictions and conditions are. Most student visa holders are allowed to undertake some work every fortnight while studying. If you are finishing your education, you might want to consider applying for a new visa that will grant you employment in Australia. A Temporary Graduate Visa, for instance, can allow you to stay in Australia for up to 18 months. Seeking to gain a permanent residence is also a good option.

Your place of study is a good venue to start your search. Many large educational institutions offer career support services to their overseas students. You can join special career events that will help you understand the employment process and learn from employers in the field of your study. You can also participate in workshops that can improve your English language and communication skills. 

Don’t hesitate to speak with your institution’s international student advisers as they can also help you build your resume and ace your interview.

From your peers and classmates to tutors and professors, your networks are important when seeking a job. Keep in touch with them…chances are they have connections to certain organisations and can help refer you. Also, through your networks, you have more opportunities to hear about job openings [Insert article about:  What are the most in-demand jobs in Australia and how do you get one within your industry.

You can also get involved in volunteer work or join clubs and societies in the areas of your interest to widen your networks. 

Immigration websites are excellent starting points for international students looking for work in Australia. They can provide a list of recruitment platforms in a variety of sectors or links to credible job search websites across Australia. Besides the Internet, you can search for vacancies in local newspapers, professional associations and international communities. 

Finding a job you’re interested can take months and you may need to apply for several positions before you get hired. While waiting, you can practise answering interview questions with friends and other students, read the latest industry trends, or study some tips on how to ace job interviews.

For advice when seeking a job in Australia while studying, speak with one of IDP’s student support services.