Should I Use an Education Agent?

There’s a lot to consider when it comes to studying English in Australia. You need to find the right course, select the right school, and locate somewhere to stay while also applying for an Australian visa.

That’s where education agents come in, helping overseas students navigate the application and visa process in a way that’s designed to be streamlined, efficient and easy.

So do you need an education agent, what exactly do they do, and how much do they cost?

The role of education agents

Education agents help international students through the course selection, application and visa process.

Taking into account the experience you want to have in Australia along with your previous education, English-speaking ability, and budget,  these agents:

• Provide you with information about suitable courses and education providers
• Help you apply to the educational institution
• Advise you about which visa you will require, and
• Assist you with the visa application process

In addition, they may help you find accommodation, and assist with travel and pre-departure arrangements.

Pros and cons

Education agents can take the stress out of applying to study in a foreign country.

As experts who navigate this arena every single day, they streamline the process, quickly identifying your options, outlining the costs, and working through the application and visa process.

Using an education agent is also a free service for students, with the costs covered by the education provider which pays a commission to the agent.

On the flipside, that commission structure can also make things a bit tricky. There is the potential for the agent to only provide you with course options they are affiliated with and also the possibility they may lean towards courses with the highest commission return.

That said, education agents are a key part of Australia’s international education sector offering invaluable advice and expertise.

Education providers are also obliged to ensure the agents they work with declare they will ‘avoid conflicts of interest’ and act ‘honestly, in good faith and the best interests of the student’.

How to select the right agent

If you’re looking to use an education agent, a list of qualified people and organisations is available here.

Meanwhile, each education provider will have a list of the education agents they have approved and work with, and this information is generally available on their website.

It’s also a good idea to research the education agent you intend to use, looking at reviews and testimonials.

Once you’ve found an agent, Study Australia suggests asking:

• Which education providers they represent
• The full list of services they provide
• A breakdown of any fees and charges
• How they will support you during the application process
• How they will keep you informed of the application process

Study Australia also notes it’s important to get everything in writing, and be wary of guarantees, particularly when it comes to visas. No agent can guarantee a successful visa application.

In the meantime, you can start your search for a suitable course and education provider here.

Costs

As mentioned, the services of an education agent are free for students, with the costs instead paid by the education provider.

This commission can be around 10 percent of the student’s first year fees and the agent may also receive a bonus as well.

While the agent services are free, the student will need to pay for the costs associated with the application process, such as the course deposit, and visa fees.

Ready to start your English education journey? Find the right course for you here.