Your FAQs
From work authorisation and visa status to career readiness and language proficiency, we’ve made it easy for you when you’re hiring international students.
General
An international student is someone who is still studying at the university and has not yet graduated from their degree. An international graduate is someone who has completed their degree.
While La Trobe backs all its graduates, we are particularly well known for our teaching and research across areas including agriculture, business, public and allied health, IT, engineering, biomedical and biological sciences. Our international graduates are equipped with industry-relevant skills and practical experience, making them job-ready from day one.
International graduates are often multilingual, adaptable, resilient and bring diverse perspectives — key traits for innovation and global business growth. They often have experience navigating cross-cultural environments, making them valuable assets in customer-facing roles and diverse teams.
Yes. In order to be able to study in Australia, all international students must meet strict English proficiency standards through various tests before enrolment.
Recruitment and cultural fit
Yes. Many international students and graduates have practical experience in Australian workplaces. Their multicultural backgrounds enable them to provide insights into diverse markets along with broad perspectives that enhance creativity and enrich workplace culture.
No. In most cases, there are no additional costs compared to hiring domestic graduates, as they will typically hold a Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485), and will not require visa sponsorship initially. Plus, the value they bring in terms of innovation and global insight can far exceed initial recruitment costs.
No. In most cases, the only additional thing you’ll need to do is confirm their visa status and conditions which can be done online through the Australian Government Home Affairs . Most international graduates have full work rights under their Temporary Graduate visa.
Not at all. Many international graduates are looking for an organisation to build their career within Australia, and support them in their transition to long-term visas or permanent residency. Even during their initial visa period, they bring a wealth of skills, fresh perspectives, and a commitment to their roles.
We have a dedicated industry engagement team, job boards, networking events, and tailored career ready events and forums to connect you with international graduates.
Yes. We have a CareerHub Jobs Board where you can advertise a range of roles to all La Trobe students and graduates.
Work authorisation and visa status
Yes. International graduates typically have full work rights under the Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485), allowing them to work unrestricted hours for up to three years, depending on their qualification level. You can find out more on visa information.
In most cases, no. Recent graduates on the Temporary Graduate Visa can work without sponsorship. For long-term employment, other visa options are available, some which may require employer sponsorship, whilst others can be applied for independently by the international graduate.
Key options include:
Employer Sponsored Visas:
Each has distinct requirements and duration which you can find online through Australian Government Home Affairs.
Employers should ensure that they use the VEVO service to verify visa status of international graduates or students. Employers will need written consent from the candidate to use the VEVO service, as well as passport details. For international students on a student visa, you will also need to sight additional documents such as Confirmation of Enrolment and commencement of studies.
For detailed information about visa's see Visa Information.
Absolutely – but the amount of hours they can work will change depending on if they’re still are student or if they’ve graduated.
During semesters while they’re studying, international students can generally work 48 hours per fortnight, unless they are studying a Masters by Research or PhD in which case they may be able to work unlimited hours. During advertised semester breaks, there are no restrictions on how many hours student visa holders can work.
Once they’ve graduated, typically there are no restrictions on the number of hours they can work, however this will need to be assessed on a case by case basis. Note different rules may apply to dependent student visa holders.
Career readiness and training
Many La Trobe international students undertake additional activities choose to complete our Career Ready Advantage Award. The Career Ready Advantage Award co-designed with industry, ensures our students develop the skills and attributes most valued by graduate employers.
Students who choose to participate undertake a range of activities, including professional and career development learning, practical experiences such as work placements, volunteering, mentoring, networking, and more, all while building a comprehensive career portfolio.
Read more about the Career Ready Advantage Award.
No. Domestic and international students all receive the same world-class education offered by at La Trobe. Similar to local graduates, many also have practical experience through internships, placements, volunteering or ambassador programs.
La Trobe University proudly acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands where its campuses are located in Victoria. We recognise that Indigenous Australians have an ongoing connection to the land and the University values their unique contribution to both the University and the wider Australian society.
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