Frequently Asked Questions

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 As a registered firm, Iqra Consultancy adheres to the privacy standards of both the UK and Australia. We comply with the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR) and the Privacy Act 1988 (Australia), ensuring your personal information is securely stored and used solely for educational consultation purposes. We do not share your data with third parties without your explicit consent. For more details, please refer to our full Privacy Policy.answer to this item.

Iqra Consultancy provides education consultancy services to international students aspiring to study in the UK and Australia. Our services include guidance on course selection, application processing, university admission support, and comprehensive assistance throughout the enrollment process. We do not handle visa processing.

No, we do not process Permanent Residency (PR) or visa applications for Australia. However, we can guide you through the initial steps and recommend reliable visa services if needed. As a registered firm in Australia, we adhere to local immigration legislation, which restricts us from directly providing visa or immigration services.

 Generally, you will need:

• Academic transcripts and certificates.
• English language proficiency test scores (e.g., IELTS, PTE).
• Statement of Purpose (SOP).
• Letters of Recommendation (if applicable).
• A valid passport.

We will provide a detailed checklist based on your chosen program and institution.

The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement is a key criterion for obtaining a student visa under Australian legislation. It ensures that the applicant intends to stay in Australia temporarily for the purpose of studying, and not for migration or other reasons. The assessment considers factors such as the applicant's circumstances in their home country, their study program's relevance to their future goals, and their overall intent to return after completing their studies.

For more information, refer to the Migration Regulations 1994 – Regulation 1.09A.

 Working while studying is a wonderful opportunity for international students to gain valuable experience, enhance their skills, and support their finances. It allows students to learn time management, build professional networks, and better integrate into the local community. However, it is crucial to approach this opportunity with caution. Overworking or neglecting academic responsibilities can backfire, leading to poor academic performance, loss of marks, or even failing courses. Moreover, exceeding the permitted work hours can result in visa breaches, legal penalties, and jeopardize future career prospects. Therefore, balancing work and studies with careful planning is essential to make the most of this opportunity without compromising academic success. 

Completing a course does not guarantee Permanent Residency (PR) in the UK or Australia. PR eligibility depends on various factors, including the immigration policies of the country, your chosen course, skills, and occupation demand in the local market. We recommend consulting a licensed immigration professional for accurate guidance on PR pathways.

No, Iqra Consultancy does not provide consultation services for job searches. Our primary focus is on helping students achieve their educational goals, such as course selection, university admissions, and related guidance. However, most universities have dedicated Career Services Departments that offer career counseling, job search support, resume-building workshops, and interview preparation, which are excellent resources for students seeking guidance.

For part-time jobs, students can explore opportunities through:

• University Job Portals: Many institutions have internal platforms where on-campus and local job openings are listed.
• Local Businesses: Retail, hospitality, and customer service sectors often have flexible part-time roles suited for students.
• Online Job Platforms: Websites like Seek, Indeed, and local community boards can help students find part-time opportunities.
• Networking: Engaging with peers, community groups, or professional events can also lead to job opportunities.

While we do not directly assist with job searches, we encourage students to utilize these resources and maintain a balance between work and study for long-term success.

No, Iqra Consultancy does not provide consultation services for employer sponsorship. Our focus is solely on assisting students with their educational needs, such as course selection and university admissions. For guidance on employer sponsorship opportunities, we recommend consulting licensed migration agents or professionals who specialize in this area.

Yes, international students are required to purchase health insurance, and it is a crucial part of their stay in countries like Australia and the UK.

In Australia, international students must have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is a mandatory requirement for a student visa. This ensures that students have access to essential medical services, including doctor visits, hospital treatment, limited medications, and emergency ambulance services. Health care in Australia can be expensive, and OSHC helps students manage these costs while staying compliant with visa conditions.

In the UK, students staying for more than six months must pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) as part of their visa application. This provides access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS), covering doctor visits, hospital treatments, and other essential health services. Without this coverage, students would face significant out-of-pocket expenses for medical care.

Health insurance is essential not just for meeting legal and visa requirements but also for ensuring students have financial security and peace of mind in case of unexpected medical needs during their studies.

The refund policy for course fees depends on the institution and specific circumstances, but typically includes the following considerations:

1. Visa      Refusal:
       Most educational institutions offer a full or partial refund if your student visa application is refused, provided you submit the required documentation (e.g., visa refusal letter) within a specified timeframe.
2. Withdrawal Before Course Start:
       If you withdraw before the course commences, you may be eligible for a refund, though an administrative fee might be deducted. The amount refunded often depends on how early you notify the institution.
3. Withdrawal      After Course Start:
       If you withdraw after the course begins, refunds are usually limited or not provided. Some institutions may offer a partial refund based on the weeks attended.
4. Non-Refundable Fees:
       Application fees, administrative charges, and initial deposits are often non-refundable.
5. Exceptional Circumstances:
       Refunds due to medical conditions or other unforeseen circumstances are  assessed on a case-by-case basis and may require supporting evidence.

If your tuition provider fails to deliver the course you enrolled in, specific protections are in place in both Australia and the UK to ensure your rights as an international student are safeguarded.

In Australia:

The Australian government provides protection under the Tuition Protection Service (TPS). This ensures the following:

1. Alternative Course Placement:
   • You may be offered an alternative course at the same or another institution without additional costs.
   • The new course must align with your educational goals and be suitable for  your visa conditions.

1. Refund of Fees:
   • If an alternative placement is not available or acceptable, you will receive a refund for the unused portion of your tuition fees.

1. Process for Assistance:
   • The TPS will contact you directly and guide you through your options. You can also initiate the process by reaching out to the TPS or your institution.

In the UK:

In the UK, protections are generally provided under the institution's Student Protection Plan and Consumer Rights Act 2015, ensuring:

1. Alternative Course or Provider:
   • Institutions are required to offer an alternative course or transfer you to another       university that can deliver a similar program.

1. Refund of Fees:
   • If an alternative course is not available or acceptable, you are entitled to a refund of fees paid, along with potential compensation for any other losses (e.g., accommodation costs).

1. Contact the Office for Students (OfS):
   • If the institution fails to handle the situation adequately, you can escalate the matter to the Office for Students (OfS), which oversees student rights and financial protection.

Steps You Should Take:

1. Contact the Institution:
   • Request clear communication regarding your options, including course transfers or refunds.

1. Seek Support:
   • Engage with the Tuition Protection Service (Australia) or the Office for Students (UK).

1. Documentation:
   • Keep all records of payments, communications, and agreements to ensure you can       support your claim.

1. Contact qra Consultancy for Guidance:
   • If you are unsure how to proceed, Iqra Consultancy can help clarify your rights and guide you through the process.

These safeguards are in place to ensure that you do not face undue hardships if your provider fails to deliver the agreed course.