We are pleased you are considering enrolling as a student at the Melbourne School of Theology. Students from overseas have greatly enriched our community life in recent years and given us valuable personal contact with the wider world church. Should you eventually join us at MST, we assure you of a very warm welcome.

It is important for you to understand from the outset the special requirements related to overseas students studying at MST. As you will see, many of the following are Government regulations over which we have no control. This may seem like a long list, but if the Lord is really calling you to study with us in Australia, then He will open up the way and provide all that you need.

1. Overseas students are responsible for return airfares to Australia from their own country.
2. Overseas Students will not normally be accepted to study at MST if there is an equivalent course available in their country.
3. It is necessary for overseas students to submit a letter of sponsorship from their church leaders or Christian organisation in their home country stating:
   • The purpose of the training at the Melbourne School of Theology,
   • How the training at MST will be of benefit to the church when they return to their own country.
   • A position of ministry in the home country waiting for them when they return.
4. MST does not engage agents for the purpose of recruiting international students. Prospective students should apply directly to MST.
5. The Australian Government has strict regulations governing the admission of overseas students to our courses. These are as follows:
   • In relation to finances you must have evidence that your source of funds has been held, for a period of six months immediately preceding the lodgement of you visa application,sufficient funds to meet the total cost of the course of study.
     Acceptable sources of funding apart from your own savings are:
     • Institutional scholarships
     • Corporate sponsorship
     • Foreign national government financial sponsorship
     • Multilateral agency funding

     Other Factors:

     • Family provided funds must be consistent with declared income streams
     • Where any of the above sources of funding only cover part of the costs, the remainder must be met in accordance with the policy outlines above at ‘Evidence’
     • Commercial and government loans are not acceptable
     • Non-cash assets are not acceptable

     MST Fees and Charges can be found in the Fee Schedule.

     Extra money will be needed for such things as text books, travel expenses, clothing and other personal items. The Government allows part‑time work, defined as a maximum of 20 hours per week, providing that such part‑time work does not interfere with a full‑time study course. However, most students find the study load does not allow them to take up work as well.

   • Australian immigration laws require overseas students to complete their course within its expected duration. Overseas students must leave Australia upon completion of the study course.
   • A course may be terminated if student progress is unsatisfactory or fees cannot be paid. If this happens students are required to leave Australia. Overseas students are required to attend all classes for their course and make satisfactory progress. Missing more than two classes per semester unless satisfactory reasons are given will result in failing the subject.
   • Overseas students are responsible for the cost of Health Insurance while in Australia. This is currently set at $429.00 per individual per year, or $959.00 for a family per year. You are required to pay in advance the full amount for the expected duration of your studies.
   • If English is not your first language, then students must take an assessment test to establish proficiency in the use of English. The use of the International English Language Testing System which is available in most countries is required.
   • Entry requirements for your chosen course must be met. Qualifications from non-Australian institutes will be assessed to determine their Australian equivalence based an standards established by Australian Government qualification assessment information.
   • The educational costs for your children's schooling in Australia currently stand at. The following is a guide:
     Primary (Prep – Grade 6) $8840.00 per student per year
     Junior Secondary (Year 7-10) $11,720.00 per student per year
     Senior Secondary (Year 11-12) $13,090.00 per student per year
6. Please note that the Bible College of Victoria does not have any general funds available for scholarships for overseas students.
7. The Australian government estimates additional living costs per year to currently be the following:
   • Students - $18,000 per year
   • Additional for Spouse - $6,300 per year
   • First child - $3,600 per year
   • Each additional child - $2,700 per year

The list seems a long one, but part of it is required to deal with Government regulations. If you believe that you are able to meet these requirements, please complete the attached form and we will be very happy to send you further information and all the necessary forms. Processing an application may take several months so it is important to apply early (at least 6 months prior to the semester in which you wish to start.)