Choosing a destination can be one of the most difficult decisions for those who want to do an exchange program. And when it comes to English-speaking countries, many people ask themselves: Australia or Ireland? If you find yourself in this dilemma because you need to plan your future, here are some parameters for you to analyze and be aware of before making your final decision to live abroad.
Weather
The weather when choosing your exchange destination can be a decisive factor. After all, temperatures can often have a big influence on our lifestyle.
Australia's climate is tropical, with cooler and warmer regions, with a winter below 10 degrees between June and August, just like in Brazil. In addition, in some Australian states, such as New South Wales, it is possible to see snow. But for much of the year, the country has a very sunny climate and a mild spring, allowing for plenty of outdoor activities.
Ireland has a mild climate with extreme temperature changes throughout the day. So it's possible for a cloudy day in Ireland to also be hot. But in general, the Ireland is a cold country where the winter tends to be long and has many cloudy days, during the winter temperatures can drop below -5º. In summer, temperatures are between 15ºC and 20ºC.
Housing
Choosing a place to live during your exchange program is an arduous task, and in Ireland finding a place can be even more difficult with the real estate crisis plaguing the country a few years ago. With so many people looking for places to live and so little housing available, prices tend to rise and tenants become more demanding. A good solution is to look for student housing and start your housing search early.
Now Australia offers different types of accommodation for different types of exchange students, but you need to be aware of the prices, because depending on the state you choose, prices can vary. But the good news is that because there is such a wide variety of types of accommodation, you can find something that suits your budget.
Work
In Ireland, exchange students can work 20 hours during the school term and 40 hours during the vacations, as long as they are enrolled in a vocational or English course lasting at least 25 weeks, according to the Irish Government. Citizens Information Ireland.
In Australia, on the other hand, students can start working while enrolled in language or VET courses from 14 weeks, according to the Departments of Home Affairs and Education. At the moment, Australia is allowing students to work 40 hours in the school term and also in the vacations, but the rules could change in 2023.
As far as job opportunities are concerned, both countries offer plenty of opportunities for new migrants in restaurants, cafés or in other types of service such as cleaning or construction. If you decide to go to the land of the kangaroos, we at Good Day Education can help you build a career. career plan in Australia.
Cost of living
The average cost of living in Australia ranges from AU$340 to AU$490 per week, with a minimum wage of AUD 19.84 per hour, according to the Australian Department of Immigration and Citizenship. In Ireland, the cost of living can cost around €720 a month. The minimum wage in the European country has been €10.50 since January 2022, according to Immigration Advice Services.
Documentation
In Ireland, students receive a temporary visa and when they enter the country, they apply for a temporary visa. Irish Resident Permit with Irish immigration within 40 days of entering the country, according to Citizens Information Ireland. In addition, the student will need to pass an interview and provide proof of around €3,000 euros in order to apply for the visa.
In Australia, it is necessary to apply for a student visa at the Australian embassy while still in Brazil. Australia requires students to provide proof of at least AU$ 1,753.42 for each month they stay in the country, according to the Departments of Home Affairs and Education. Therefore, it is important that you multiply this amount according to the duration of your exchange.
Quality of education
When it comes to education, both countries offer a high quality of teaching. They also offer different types of opportunities for students who want to do an undergraduate, postgraduate or master's degree in both countries. However, when it comes to job opportunities, such as Australia is currently facing a labor shortage in some sectorsIn the end, it offers more opportunities.
Remember to do plenty of research before making your decision. And if you are considering Australia, we at Good Day Education can guide you and help you every step of the way. Contact us!
