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. It is necessary for overseas students to submit a letter 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 them when they return to their own country.
3. MST does not engage agents for the purpose of recruiting international students. Prospective students should apply directly to MST.
4. The Australian Government has strict regulations governing the admission of overseas students to our courses. These are as follows:
   • It is necessary to provide 'evidence of having sufficient finances to cover the cost of the first year of study in Australia'. You must also provide ‘a declaration that you have access to adequate funds necessary to meet the proposed tuition and living costs for the period of study sought.’ There are no restrictions on the source of funds. 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 by Australian Government qualification assessment information.
   • The educational costs for your children's schooling in Australia have to be paid for. The following is a guide only:
     Primary (Prep – Grade 6): $8,840.00 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
   • As an overseas student the Immigration Department expects you to meet the following costs for living expenses:
     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
5. Please note that the Melbourne School of Theology does not have any general funds available for scholarships for overseas students.

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.)