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Step 5: Further Important Considerations

When embarking on a HDR course, it is important to carefully consider factors that could potentially impact your capacity to study and your quality of life. Affordability, personal and family needs, and government requirements are all critical factors.

  • Have you identified suitable and affordable accommodation? Student accommodation and private rental properties are in high demand in Perth.
  • Have you compared the cost of living in Perth to your current circumstances? This includes groceries, amenities, transport, accommodation and other day-to-day expenses. Useful resources can be found on the Study Perth website (Living in Perth and Moving to Perth).
  • If you are an international candidate, have you investigated the cost of Overseas Student Health Cover?
  • Can you afford to study if you do not secure a scholarship?
  • Scholarships are time limited and unforeseeable circumstances can arise. How will you manage if you do not complete your HDR course within the allocated timeframe?
  • Would part-time of full-time study suit you better? Bear in mind any visa requirements and consider your personal disposition around work/life balance.
  • Will you study on or off campus? Consider any visa requirements and think about what support mechanisms you may need in either scenario.
  • Do you plan to work during your candidature? A full-time study load is at least 35 hours per week so think carefully about how much work you can realistically fit in. Also consider any visa and scholarship restrictions.
  • Is your family moving to Perth with you? Think about costs, where you can live, school or childcare arrangements.
  • Have you considered any opportunities to collaborate with industry during your HDR course?
  • Have you checked out the support services available at ECU?
  • Have you considered the alignment of timelines for visa applications, admission processes and travel arrangements?
  • Have you allowed enough time for your application? Please note that applications for HDR course admission and scholarships take some time to complete. It is strongly recommended that you commence the process well ahead of any closing dates.
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