Hi,

I'm wondering if anyone has phoned the admission office about the acceptance/rejection notification.

They told me that i'll find out before oct 31, but it's Nov 3rd already....what's going on?

I'm in touch with two other SDN members and they haven't been notified by Sydney as well.

jack

Originally posted by jackts
Hi,

I'm wondering if anyone has phoned the admission office about the acceptance/rejection notification.

They told me that i'll find out before oct 31, but it's Nov 3rd already....what's going on?

I'm in touch with two other SDN members and they haven't been notified by Sydney as well.

jack

Relax its exam time here...maybe they are busy marking papers or something. ;)

I was verbally told the same thing (end of October), but the site says Nov. 7 (end of the week).

Same here---haven't heard, but was told I would know by the end of Oct. at my interview. Maybe redshift is right and they are swamped. Hopefully we'll hear by the end of this week.

Is notification via email as well as mail? Or are we subject to snail mail only? Incredibly stressful right now.

If your email address is correct in their files (ie, you've gotten **** from them through email before) then yeah, they'll email you at the same time they send out your mail notification. At least, that's what they did for me. I find that in general, they are faster with email than they are with anything else. I've called a bunch of times and I never got calls back, but they'd send me an email in regards to whatever I called about.

This here is the Aussie Twilight Zone thread.

Last stop..Sydney.

All angst and anxiety converge here.

All prior decisions are tentative..None may pass.

Welcome and take a number.

Pretty funny pitman. Very sad and true, but funny.

At least happy hour is soon. . .

On another forum, a couple of local applicants claimed to have received offers from USyd today. Must be getting close.

So, Nov. 7 is here, and still no notification. Anyone else in the same boat, and frustrated?

Hmm... strange people like places that don't seem to like them back as much :). I guess it's just human.

Good luck to everyone. Hope you guys get in... but don't be overly disappointed otherwise, because I really think that it's usually their loss for losing a good and capable student (unless you think otherwise about yourself).

I haven't heard either, so I emailed yesterday (which was Friday there), but I don't expect a response until Sunday (our time). It'd be a shame if their policy is merely to blow off candidates they don't want -- would reflect pretty badly on the school.

One thought -- don't we all have late interviews (Oct.+) in common?

-pitman

.................

Flindophile speaks the truth. Academia is typically far from efficient anywhere and the Aussies are no different - well, except that its worse.

Don't expect to send an email on a Friday and get a response back on the weekend. Ain't gonna happen.

Things work slower, they don't understand our anxiety over it and its just not as consumer oriented as the US - this is true for many things in Australia (don't get me started on the almost always lousy service you get in restaurants and shops).

Get used to it...it will continue for 4 years and pushing them doesn't help any. Pushy Americans. ;)

Kimberli, I'd agree with your general observation about Australians, from what I've heard and the little I've seen while visiting the country.

But, marketing is marketing. The schools do currently compete with each other in their own ways. For example, Flinders I think does an excellent job at the "front door" -- Tony (dir. of admissions) choosing to be the int'l applicant liaison is extremely time-consuming (and expensive) yet adds a personal touch and helps assure QC in communications. Flinders also has a rolling admissions policy to try to snag the better students. UQ requires a HUGE, early deposit that effectively locks in its students with interesting timing. USyd effectively has rolling admissions, and interesting maneuverings vis-a-vis the ACER ranking/matching system.

The more laid back and less-competitive nature may be characteristic of Australians in general, but the very intelligent *deans* of the schools all have their own methods/policies (and probably mandate) to attract better students. Whether the tactics or chain of command are effective is another matter.

If a school breaks a promise, such as an interview date, or the date to expect to hear back, then this unrectified reflects negatively on the school, and can give rise to questions of what to expect once in the school, RELATIVE to the other schools. Now, "front door" behavior could be illusory, but the deans are smart enough to understand that such behavior can have an effect on an applicant's perception of the school relative to the other schools, raising the additional question of whether they care about applicants'/students' perceptions. If they do, what are the reasons for the front-door behavior (new school, swamped with apps., incompetence, etc.), and if not, and assuming not just with applicants they don't intend to reject, then why choose to potentially stab themselves in the foot by filtering out students who are concerned with such matters.

It's not the end of the world if an admissions office appears to be disorganized or worse. Many applicants don't care all that much and don't make any connection between admissions and school administration or to their expectations as students over the next 3-4 years. But, to *some* degree, most do (`all else being equal between school X and Y...`), which means the "why?" is still a valid concern, even if the impact is only infinitessimal compared to other potential decision factors such as location/image of the school, res placement stats, and cost.

So, in my somewhat typical fashion...this all matters only to the extent that concern for the implications is able to sway one's decision one way or another. No more, no less.

-pitman

Kimberli -- i didn't mean to suggest that i expected a response on the weekend, but Monday workday there is Sunday here (E. coast).

pitman...

sorry if I mislead you with my beliefs/concerns, etc. While I DO believe that academia is inherently less organized than the typical business world, and that Aussies are even less concerned with such conventions, I WHOLEHEARTEDLY agree that changing interview dates without notifying candidates, not responding to emails properly, etc. is outside the bounds of organization and is unprofessional and, since you note that they are in the business of making money, cash foolish.

Perhaps I misread the earlier threads - I didn't realize we were talking about some of the aggregious problems the candidates are facing but rather thought we were talking about day to day frustrations with the Aussie schools.

[i]It's not the end of the world if an admissions office appears to be disorganized or worse. Many applicants don't care all that much and don't make any connection between admissions and school administration or to their expectations as students over the next 3-4 years. But, to *some* degree, most do (`all else being equal between school X and Y...`), which means the "why?" is still a valid concern, even if the impact is only infinitessimal compared to other potential decision factors such as location/image of the school, res placement stats, and cost.

So, in my somewhat typical fashion...this all matters only to the extent that concern for the implications is able to sway one's decision one way or another. No more, no less.

-pitman [/B]

Pitman, I totally agree with the concerns you've raised. I've applied to McMaster University in Canada and I have to say that the lady that directs the admissions office has not only been downright rude via e-mail, but also failed to return a very important message. If I end up going somewhere else, I'm already thinking about writing a professional letter to the dean, with copies of these e-mails, so that he is made aware of this. The ?front line? plays a pivotal role in how the school is perceived.

I think that their curriculum looks great and I understand that they have over 4000 applications for 140 places which keeps them busy, but this experience has raised genuine questions in my mind as to the kind of treatment I might receive if I matriculate there. Since I?m lucky to have other options, even at this early stage, this is a serious red flag raised for McMaster University and it's sad to think that it may be due to one careless employee in their administration office, rather than a reflection of them as a school.

Since their tuition is not cheap, it makes me think that they place little value in the applicant. I'm thick-skinned and this has been my consistent impression with them. Has anyone else experienced this with McMaster?

Pitman--

To respond to an earlier comment...I interviewed early and still haven't heard anything. My interview was in mid-Sept., the first time they came to the US. The only thing I can think of is that I moved and there is a letter waiting for me one way or the other at my old apartment. However, I have the same email address and notified them several times about my address change. We'll see. Just to let you know, I think most people haven't heard, regardless of interview time.

Same here, I interviewed early, and haven't heard anything.

jack



Originally posted by Jatpot
Pitman--

To respond to an earlier comment...I interviewed early and still haven't heard anything. My interview was in mid-Sept., the first time they came to the US. The only thing I can think of is that I moved and there is a letter waiting for me one way or the other at my old apartment. However, I have the same email address and notified them several times about my address change. We'll see. Just to let you know, I think most people haven't heard, regardless of interview time.

Sounds like USyd applicants are in the same boat as me. However, in the reference to efficiency of email response, while ANU has been less than satisfying, ACER on the other hand, has been relatively good about it.

Hope you guys hear something soon. I hope I do too.

--laters!

AND pitman: thanks for the insight...I agree, if a school makes some kind of promise, via email, word of mouth, or whatnot, its an agreement that should without fail be honored.

Guess we'll just have to wait.

Originally posted by Scottish Chap
Pitman, I totally agree with the concerns you've raised. I've applied to McMaster University in Canada and I have to say that the lady that directs the admissions office has not only been downright rude via e-mail, but also failed to return a very important message. If I end up going somewhere else, I'm already thinking about writing a professional letter to the dean, with copies of these e-mails, so that he is made aware of this. The ?front line? plays a pivotal role in how the school is perceived.

I think that their curriculum looks great and I understand that they have over 4000 applications for 140 places which keeps them busy, but this experience has raised genuine questions in my mind as to the kind of treatment I might receive if I matriculate there. Since I?m lucky to have other options, even at this early stage, this is a serious red flag raised for McMaster University and it's sad to think that it may be due to one careless employee in their administration office, rather than a reflection of them as a school.

Since their tuition is not cheap, it makes me think that they place little value in the applicant. I'm thick-skinned and this has been my consistent impression with them. Has anyone else experienced this with McMaster?

- totally...and when I applied to McMaster it was through the OUAC service and for undergraduate courses...but they were pretty rude on the phone.

- Scottish Chap if you don't mind my asking what are your other options?

Guys,

I think you should just relax for a second. Remember we may be financing these unis but their main concern is still local/current students.

They are busy right now with the school leavers and the exams. Dont' worry I'm sure they will get to you soon.

- Scottish Chap if you don't mind my asking what are your other options? [/B][/QUOTE]

Redshifteffect, it's nice to meet you again....and in a different forum! My other option is the 4-year accelerated GEP medical programme in the U.K. This is consistent with my citizenship and educational background. I have been in touch with several schools and they say I have a very competitive application and that they wouild welcome one; of course many others do also!! Nonetheless, this would be much easier for me than trying to enter McMaster as an international and around 1/15 of the cost in tuition. Man, McMaster?s attitude (specifically one person in their admissions office) has really warped my perception of them. Pitman, sorry if I've altered the focus of your questions in this thread. I feel a bit bad about that.

Originally posted by redshifteffect

They are busy right now with the school leavers and the exams. Dont' worry I'm sure they will get to you soon.

Yeah, but one small problem, Red -- anyone considering UQ as a backup has to deliver $10K by the end of next week. There are other time constraints some of these ppl have I'm sure. Nonetheless, where other school(s) are an option, one has to weigh/wonder...

-pitman

Originally posted by Scottish Chap
Pitman, sorry if I've altered the focus of your questions in this thread. I feel a bit bad about that. [/B]

What a d*ck! :p

No, this seems like as good a place as any to moan about bad admissions dept. behavior. I've more stories about the schools that I may share depending on how things turn out.

-pitman

Originally posted by Kimberli Cox

Perhaps I misread the earlier threads - I didn't realize we were talking about some of the aggregious problems the candidates are facing but rather thought we were talking about day to day frustrations with the Aussie schools.

You're forgiven, oh busy goddess.

-piman

Just to let you guys know, I called U. Syd and they seem to have a warped perception of how people like to organize going to a professional school overseas. I was told that in the past it has taken up to around 6 weeks for Canadian students to arrange visas and so they are waiting to notify students until later (ie. December). I was told that "rolling admissions" are still being processed so they feel there is still lots of time to notify us (up until recently they have been interviewing students). Ironically, I've pretty much decided to go to UQ but this blew my mind. They have dates set on their webpage and correspondence so I brought this up and also mentioned that several people have had offers at other schools. I think some of those people with offers at other schools are in a stressful situation becuase if U.Syd was a first choice then they are going to feel pressed into deciding to go to another school for which they've been accepted. As mentioned preivously, this will give a number of people a negative feeling towards the school...

markdc, thanx for the 411,

I had no idea they were in the habit of telling people something and then turning around and doing something else. I thought maybe they might just be busy right now; not really considering that they just don't care!!!

I'll wait as long as I can before giving up hope of hearing back from them. I still think their program is great and everything, but faced with waiting for them I might have to accept a sure thing somewhere else........ sounds like I'm experiencing a very similar situation as everyone else.

hope everyone's well,

Cheers,

Silenthunder

You the man for making the call.

Originally posted by markdc
Just to let you guys know, I called U. Syd and they seem to have a warped perception of how people like to organize going to a professional school overseas. I was told that in the past it has taken up to around 6 weeks for Canadian students to arrange visas and so they are waiting to notify students until later (ie. December).

Huh? Was there any reasoning added as to why 6 weeks for a visa translates into giving notification later? Or does the reasoning seem to be that since it takes up to 6 weeks, let's give 'em about 7 weeks notice.

I'd think the change in timeline has to do with some expected benefit to them, not the candidates, but not sure how the benefit could possibly be realized.

They have dates set on their webpage and correspondence so I brought this up and also mentioned that several people have had offers at other schools.

How did they respond (verbally or otherwise) when you mentioned this?

-pitman

Originally posted by Scottish Chap
- Scottish Chap if you don't mind my asking what are your other options?

Redshifteffect, it's nice to meet you again....and in a different forum! My other option is the 4-year accelerated GEP medical programme in the U.K. This is consistent with my citizenship and educational background. I have been in touch with several schools and they say I have a very competitive application and that they wouild welcome one; of course many others do also!! Nonetheless, this would be much easier for me than trying to enter McMaster as an international and around 1/15 of the cost in tuition. Man, McMaster?s attitude (specifically one person in their admissions office) has really warped my perception of them. Pitman, sorry if I've altered the focus of your questions in this thread. I feel a bit bad about that. [/B][/QUOTE]


- nice to meet you again Scottish Chap! yeah I don't know why mcmaster has such attitude problems but I would suspect it's because of the copious amounts of applications they have there. Still not an excuse though. On top of that they only have 10 international spots.

Anyway best of luck with your admissions!

Pitman,

I can understand the frustrations about the deposits...but as I said U of Syd will not reply any sooner with admissions because they still have an obligation to the local/current students.....Hopefully though you guys get your answers soon...i can understand how anxious you are.

markdc, good on ya for making the call.

it's a bit disconcerting if they are planning to wait yet another month for notification. . .is it part of the process to see who can wait it out? I would think especially for internationals they would have the decisions quickly for funding and moving. . . i don't understand at all.

When is the proper time to make decisions for alternate schools? From previous experience with USyd, rejection letters are not sent out either. So, it's limbo??

Originally posted by texasblue
From previous experience with USyd, rejection letters are not sent out either. So, it's limbo??

You mean USyd doesn't tell people they've been rejected?

Originally posted by pitman
You mean USyd doesn't tell people they've been rejected?
I know a local applicant who has already received a rejection letter from USyd, and I don't believe they would treat international applicants differently.

Originally posted by texasblue
it's a bit disconcerting if they are planning to wait yet another month for notification. . .is it part of the process to see who can wait it out?

That can't be the strategy, waiting for the scraps/stragglers -- seems incidental to something else.

Originally posted by mic
I know a local applicant who has already received a rejection letter from USyd, and I don't believe they would treat international applicants differently.

They may...remember locals are on a different system...they might have to fill out a bunch more paperwork for locals than for internationals. Internationals students are also their second priority when it comes to admissions...remember they are an Australian uni and their primary objective is to train Australian doctors.

Yeah but red, the dean is very intelligent (see CV below), very professionally trained (e.g., London Business School MBA, among other degrees), and is surely cognizant of international image (and is accountable). And as stated, the schools DO compete for the better int'l students. While in a general sense it can be understood why Aussie schools don't tailor their schools/curricula to N. Americans, admissions is a different ball game.

http://www.medfac.usyd.edu.au/about/coatscv.html

-pitman

pitman,

I didn't mean that they are waiting until Dec to notify everyone. What I was told is that things work on rolling admissions meaning that you are notified when they decide to notify you.

When I mentioned the fact that I had offers at 2 other schools and needed to know whither or not I was in, the response was that they would get back to me.

The 6 weeks to process a visa was given as justification that they could wait until december to notify people. I don't know if I misinterpreted something that was said but this was the impression that I was given.

Once again, I think that they should simply stick by the dates provided on correspondence and on their own webpage and notify their international applicants in a timely manner. I can not be the only one with offers at other schools. Surely this is reflecting negatively on U. Syd even if only in the small body of applicants from abroad...

Originally posted by pitman
Yeah but red, the dean is very intelligent (see CV below), very professionally trained (e.g., London Business School MBA, among other degrees), and is surely cognizant of international image (and is accountable). And as stated, the schools DO compete for the better int'l students. While in a general sense it can be understood why Aussie schools don't tailor their schools/curricula to N. Americans, admissions is a different ball game.

http://www.medfac.usyd.edu.au/about/coatscv.html

-pitman

Pitman I didn't mean it in an insulting way...just meant to say that I think in terms of priority they have other stuff that they want to get done (first)

Not to encourage the same behaviour, but I'm not nearly as patient or tolerant, and a couple of years ago, I must have emailed, phoned, chased down a couple of people in administrative staff, that by the end of it, they got so fed up, they let me know i was in over the phone-they still don't like me going by the office.

Originally posted by The Pill Counter
Not to encourage the same behaviour, but I'm not nearly as patient or tolerant, and a couple of years ago, I must have emailed, phoned, chased down a couple of people in administrative staff, that by the end of it, they got so fed up, they let me know i was in over the phone-they still don't like me going by the office.


Hmmm...... perhaps I will try this. Pill Counter, what time of year did you do this last year? (going to start calling them tonite for my questions regarding rejection/acceptance).

Cheers,
Silenthunder

Last year I unsuccessfully applied to USyd and received no word of anything until I emailed regarding if all offers were out and if it was necessary to start the alternate plan. . .I received an email back a few days later saying I was unsuccessful, and that was it. This was near the end of November last year, when many acceptances were known mid-October. I"m just waiting it out this year, even though in a few hours one could easily ring them, and the temptation is huge. As well as the stress. They operate so differently from the US and I've learned to just avoid American "instant knowledge needed" tendencies. I also drink a lot of wine.

Originally posted by markdc
I can not be the only one with offers at other schools.

Yah mon, I'm another. Thus is what I emailed them on Thursday (their Friday).

Thanks for the clarifications.

-pitman

Originally posted by redshifteffect
Pitman I didn't mean it in an insulting way...just meant to say that I think in terms of priority they have other stuff that they want to get done (first)

No problem red, not insulted. I agree with you here -- I don't think they've *forgotten* us, but clearly have decided other things are more important. But "what" and "why" and "how not self-defeating", I do not have a clue.

-pitman

Originally posted by The Pill Counter
Not to encourage the same behaviour, but I'm not nearly as patient or tolerant, and a couple of years ago, I must have emailed, phoned, chased down a couple of people in administrative staff, that by the end of it, they got so fed up, they let me know i was in over the phone-they still don't like me going by the office.

Pill Counter means at UQ (in case anyone not clear on this). They're admittedly (personal conversations) not *totally* on the ball over there, b.c. they're "newer" at the int'l competition game. But, they've at least been responsive in correspondences, and have been good at keeping all their dates (this year).

Has anyone who attempted to contact USyd heard anything?

Originally posted by texasblue
Has anyone who attempted to contact USyd heard anything?

Not as of yet....

Nope.

Hmmm. Interesting.

I just received an email from Victoria Haigh saying that I should receive something (?) in the mail within the next two weeks. No indication of whether the 'something' will be good or bad.

-pitman

Originally posted by pitman
Yeah, but one small problem, Red -- anyone considering UQ as a backup has to deliver $10K by the end of next week. There are other time constraints some of these ppl have I'm sure. Nonetheless, where other school(s) are an option, one has to weigh/wonder...

-pitman

Whoa. That's a huge deposit! Are there other contingencies like this attached to all the other schools in Australia?

Originally posted by pitman

Huh? Was there any reasoning added as to why 6 weeks for a visa translates into giving notification later? Or does the reasoning seem to be that since it takes up to 6 weeks, let's give 'em about 7 weeks notice.

I'd think the change in timeline has to do with some expected benefit to them, not the candidates, but not sure how the benefit could possibly be realized.

-pitman

Hmm...that is strange. I read on the Immigration Website that there are Evisas for students applying from outside of Australia. An application online is processed in 5-10 business days. In some rare cases, the application will have to be referenced at Australia. But, if this occurs, the whole process then takes 4 weeks.

At latest, processing a visa takes only 4, at most 5 weeks to process. Why the 6 weeks quote?

And Pitman, may I PM you?

The 6 weeks quote was specific to Canada from what I understood and it represented an absolute maximum. If you aren't Canadian then you may not know how slow things often work here when it is government related. Maybe our gov. has rubbed off on the consulate here, maybe it took that long once in the past? Who knows?

As for UQ, I was a little cheesed about their big deposit as well. I am using IEFC and I am waiting for this to be processed. It took several phone calls and emails to find out that you can deposit a much smaller fee to become enrolled while they straighten out their end of the processing of the loan. I found it somewhat amusing that the process of simply paying the school is not even straight-forward.

Originally posted by markdc
The 6 weeks quote was specific to Canada from what I understood and it represented an absolute maximum. If you aren't Canadian then you may not know how slow things often work here when it is government related. Maybe our gov. has rubbed off on the consulate here, maybe it took that long once in the past? Who knows?[/i]

Oh ok, well, in that case, I hope not.

[B]
As for UQ, I was a little cheesed about their big deposit as well. I am using IEFC and I am waiting for this to be processed. It took several phone calls and emails to find out that you can deposit a much smaller fee to become enrolled while they straighten out their end of the processing of the loan. I found it somewhat amusing that the process of simply paying the school is not even straight-forward.

That is certainly disconcerting.

But I have a question about the entire process to apply to Au's schools by way of ACER. I read in their catalogue that you apply to schools, ( I applied to ANU and Usyd). The person I'm in correspondence with at ACER told me that the process works as the following:

Application is submitted. Acer forwards application to 1st choice school. 1st choice school decides- interview offered or not. If not, then the 1st choice school sends the application onto the 2nd choice school. In the process, 1st choice school notifies applicant of rejection of application and subsequent forwarding to 2nd choice school. HOWEVER, what happens if the 1st school decides to offer interview? Then does the 2nd choice school never get to see the application?

And another question: reading these forums, I've noticed many of you posters here have applied to more than 2 schools at once. Did you apply via ACER or by another way?

I'm pretty sure that if you get an interview at the first school ACER does not forward your form to the second school.

Personally, I applied directly to U.Syd and Flinders and chose UQ as a first choice on the ACER form. My second choice was Melb., but I didn't get an interview there. I am guessing that ACER never forwarded my app there since UQ offered an interview. Since I received interviews at 3 out of the 4 schools I'm assuming that this is the case and that Melb never knew about my potential interest.

As far as I remember you can apply directly to ANU directly as well. In theory you could apply to 3 schools directly and 2 on the ACER form and get a maximum of 4 interviews. I had a particular school in mind based on what I've researched and which one had the most to offer me personally, but it is always good to have a backup plan. (And a backup for the backup :) )

Originally posted by Jade Tigress
And another question: reading these forums, I've noticed many of you posters here have applied to more than 2 schools at once. Did you apply via ACER or by another way?

USyd and Flinders allow you to apply using their own applications, not sure about ANU. So w/ your ACER choice, there's a max of 3-4 grad programs you can apply to.

-pitman

Originally posted by markdc
As for UQ, I was a little cheesed about their big deposit as well. I am using IEFC and I am waiting for this to be processed. It took several phone calls and emails to find out that you can deposit a much smaller fee to become enrolled while they straighten out their end of the processing of the loan. I found it somewhat amusing that the process of simply paying the school is not even straight-forward.

Also, if you make the full deposit, UQ allows you to get a full refund up until classes start. The only potential problem with either of these is that you sorta screw UQ with their admissions, but this a personal ethics issue.

I decided not to screw UQ just b.c. USyd was screwing me..

-pitman

Well, last night I got fed up. USyd hasn't kept its word for a single date, either doesn't respond or doesn't respond in a timely manner to emails or phone messages, and doesn't EVER answer the actual questions I ask via email (over a dozen of them, since 10 months ago when I first inquired about the school).

I'm assuming the letter that's 'on the way' is a rejection, but if not, then too bad. I decided to accept another offer, b.c. I really am sick of the never-ending unprofessionalism.

-pitman

Good on you, pitman. Lucky you had a backup -- I applied only to USyd because I truly didn't want to go anywhere else. Regret that currently -- but no worries. If you don't mind me asking, are you a non-trad student?

So where to, pitman?

Yes, pitman is non-traditional, according to his other posts.

Who else is coming to UQ???

I'll come out and explain my reasoning after I've had a chance to write an email to the school I'm turning down.

I'm 35, so in that sense am non-traditional.

texasblue -- good luck with Sydney. I don't think they're not right for other candidates, but I personally put a lot of weight on how I "feel" about a school and its people.

-pitman

Pitman,

I'm sorry to hear of your problems regarding Usyd's unprofessionalism. I hope that you have a much better time and experience at UQ.

For others, I have yet another question (sorry!) ::Sheepish look::

If you can apply directly to the schools, what is the point of having ACER?

And if what pitman and markdc said is true (which btw, thank you for that bit of information), then one school will never see your application. Isn't that a bit unfair and a waste of money then?

Why send there if you know that one school won't be evaluating your application?

UQ and Melbourne only use ACER so there is no other option. U. Syd, Flinders and ANU (I think) allow for direct applications. The ACER system seems a little strange to me as well. We have a certralized application system in Ontario but they don't prevent you from getting interviews at your 2nd or 3rd choice of schools.

Domestic students must use ACER. They specify 3 preferences, with at most one interview per candidate, probably so schools don't have to interview 3-4 times as many applicants. If a school doesn't want to interview you, they pass you down the list; if the school that interviews you doesn't want you, then they pass their info to the next school in the list, but I'm not sure how they would relay meaningful interview results.

The odd part to me is that there are schools who require ACER for int'l applicants, putting themselves at a disadvantage. But as UQ admitted to me, they're a little behind in marketing savvy compared to USyd and Flinders, and I'd expect them to ramp up efforts over the next few years. I'm sure I'll try to effect better policies while I'm there ;)

-pitman

I did not know that domestic students were required to use ACER. I suppose that makes sense, but for Intl's using it, hmm, politics, oh well.

Thanks for the info. I emailed them again today, lets hope I get a response in a faster time than the last time. Last time I emailed them on July 24 and got a resonse on Aug 14th.

oh well. Best of luck Pitman.

Markdc,

the visa process is damn slow in Canada. I had to go to some doctor somewhere in Toronto that cost quite a bit of money. I had to get a checkup from him and a chest x ray...and since i was working at the time I had to book them at least a couple of weeks apart. Then it took about 6 weeks to get the visa...all in all it took probably more than 6 weeks including all the checkups.

Hi guys,

I interviewed in san fran the middle of september and got my acceptance to Usyd on oct 10 ( via email, it followed in the mail a week later). According to the offer I have until december 1 to accept (ie give them first semester fees) so if you haven't heard from them perhaps that's a good thing, you're probably on the wait list depending on whether the first round of offers are accepted.

I got my rejection letter from Sydney yesterday; I'm not sure why I was rejected and they say they won't tell applicants why either.

Today, tho I got an acceptance to one of my top US schools so I am not too bummed I guess. Still, Bondi sounded pretty good to this chick-let. :D

Just curious- do you guys know anyone who have gotten last minute offers yet?

I received an offer via email two days ago; don't know if that's considered last minute...it sure feels like it w/everything I have to do to prepare!

Yep --- I received an offer on Monday as well. The next deadline is Dec. 11th I'm assuming for next round.

Congrats Jatpot and Texasblue!

I'll see you in Sydney if you decide to accept.

I don't think you guys are behind at all... I got my acceptance in October but didn't decide to go until the last minute.

I still have exams to write too so I've put off Visa applications etc.

Thanks caribou! I have accepted, and am shooting towards arriving within the first few days of Feb. I have to find an apartment!

Just my advice: I spoke with the Australian Visa questions hotline people yesterday (probably not their official title-ha ha), and they suggested I get moving on the application. They say I have enough time, as it takes 4 weeks to process, but it will actually take longer than that, as they have to send medical forms (you can't get them online), after they receive your request for them--which can take up to 3 weeks. Anyways, I'm an American, and I don't know if you are, so things may be different for you, but I just wanted to offer that bit of counsel.

My friend who is going to Flinders told me that they require he show up and enroll in classes before they sit down with him and process his financial aid. Does anyone know if this is true for USyd as well??? I see how it would protect them from people who take the money and never show up to Oz; just wondering what the inside knowledge is on that.

Thanks all.

congrats jatpot and texasblue...will see you guys in sydney!!
anyone found any good apartments? i m not so keen on living on campus...

Jatpot,
We have to wait until we have our ECOE before we can apply for the Visa, correct? What # did you call to get the info from the Australian Visa people? I need to call them as well. Is there an Australian Consulate in Chicago that we could go to for this?
Thanks.

hey here is the toll free number 1888 990 8888

btw, your eCOE will be sent (also addressed) to the embassy in DC. I had asked for the Chicago consulate. I guess they dont work with visas.

That # is correct--that's the one I called. Also, you are right--the Chicago consulate is of no use to us, sadly. Everything has to go through Washington DC.

The eCOE will be forwarded on to them; I'll probably throw a copy of mine in w/my Visa app, just to be safe.

I'm calling the visa people today to find out if it is better to request the med forms first, wait for them, and then send the whole app. in, or if it is better to send everything except the med forms and then wait for the med forms and send them. I'll let you know what they say.

Tina

Looking forward to seeing you all in Sydney!

I'm not living on campus -- no way in hell. There's loads of affordable housing all over Sydney. Just get there before the rush of EVERY other student. Look at the Sydney Morning Herald, I think.

Any one with later acceptances hear anything about this anatomy class? Or anyone with earlier acceptances taking it????

By the way, I'm headed to Sydney Monday to sort out all of this stuff in person since they are really slow at responding to email and whatnot.

If anyone has any questions they'd like an answer to -- let me know and I'll find out what I can. I know I have a list that is quite long already.

Jatpot,
I think that USyd processes the Financial Aid before you get there, I'm just having difficulty trying to get the amounts of it figured out.

Texasblue, I will be taking the Anatomy Course in Jan, I thought it would be a good way to break myself in to the Aussie system.
What are you going to do with financial aid checks? Are you going to open a bank account at a bank or credit union when you get there?

Miler -- I have an account in New Zealand that I think I can get transferred to a Sydney branch. I am also keeping as much money in my US account as possible because I am PRAYING the US dollar will go up at SOME POINT. I'll have everything paid to my US account and wired to Australia as needed.

I'm keen to take the anatomy course. I'll find out Monday, I guess.

Is anatomy required, or just a good idea as a refresher or for people who never took it?

I took an anatomy class in college and then a dissection course the following semester. I loved it. There is no way I can make it down this January, do you know if it is offered at other times?

Tina

It is not required, and as of right now I think they are just offering it during the summer term. I just felt it would be a good refresher course.

Miler -- How much is the anatomy course and when does it start?

Miler -- you're the keen triathlete, yes?

Texasblue,
Yeah, I'm pretty much addicted to triathlons. Its in my blood. Why do you ask?

We don't actually have to go to the Washington DC consulate to get out Visa do we? Sorry, all of this is so new to me I really don't know where to start.

Miler -- just remember reading a post somewhere because you were asking about cycling and your bike -- anyone who's first concern is taking a bike has the right frame of mind. Sydney is a freaking mecca with the mountains. Good on ya. Are you competitive or just personal gain?

You don't have to go to DC BUT I can tell you from a friend's experience (I accompanied them as I lived in DC at this time) if you are near there it is WORTH the drive into DC to take care of it. Literally takes them 20 minutes to process it. Saves LOADS of time and hassle of mailing, blah blah blah. They are NOT helpful as they have restricted operating hours and whatnot.

I actually had a question about bringing my bike. I like to ride in the mountains, and have a decent bike--miler, did you find anything out about shipping the bike to Oz? I have to figure out how to bring my snowboard as well, but that is less pressing, as it will be summer when I arrive. Don't really want to buy them both again!

Any info is appreciated,

Tina

Hey Tina -- regarding a bike. Get it boxed and take it with you on the plane. I think when I brought mine to NZ it cost me $80 as "excess sports baggage" -- which is lovely because it doesn't go against your baggage limit on the flight. Probably can do the snowboard as well, as long as you have a lift from the airport! If you are shipping a freight box to Oz with your stuff, stick the snowboard in there and call it a day.

Yes, that is the way I plan on shipping my bike as well. If you go to any local bike shop they will have tons of bike boxes that bikes were shipped to them in, and they usually just thow them away. Take apart your bike and go crazy with the bubble wrap and/or styrofoam and you should be just fine getting your bike there.
You can actually buy hardshell bike boxes, but they are very large, and quite expensive.

Texasblue, I am pretty serious about triathlons and bike racing. This upcoming season will be my first racing professionally, and I'm looking forward to getting beat up on by the Aussies (some of the best pro triathletes in the world call Sydney home!) I must admit that in addition to the school itself the sporting location was another big draw for USyd to me. The hot, humid location of Sydney will also be good prep to get ready for the US Olympic trials which are in Hawaii in April. I'm not sure how much time I'm going to have to train, though. I guess it will be a lesson in time management.

Does anyone know many miles (or K's) USyd's campus is from the mountains?
Thanks

texasblue, wow u leaving so soon! please let me know about off campus apartments when u get there. i really dont want to llive in dorms again. thanks for the help....

hey miler, did u get a temporary or permanent accomodation at SUV?

Miler -- the triathlon scene is ridiculous down here -- and that's a good thing. The Aussies and Kiwis are the leaders in the sport(well, save the Canadian couple). Have you sorted out which club or team you'd be affiliated with? I'm not into triathlons or competing competitively (even though I've given serious consideration for cycling) but I enjoy riding and running. It's the damn swimming that kills me.
I think you'll have enough time to train well, and you couldn't have picked a better location.
How long are the trials in Hawaii -- as in how many days do you have to be there?

I finally got my eCOE today. However, I'm so lost right now. U. of Sydney only gave me address of U.S. DIMA. It doesn't even have phone #... I went DIMA web site, but I'm still lost... Can we apply for our visa online?

Originally posted by Blackjack16
I finally got my eCOE today. However, I'm so lost right now. U. of Sydney only gave me address of U.S. DIMA. It doesn't even have phone #... I went DIMA web site, but I'm still lost... Can we apply for our visa online?

Yes.

http://www.dimia.gov.au/e_visa/students.htm

(Note that you will be in visa subclass 573 -- needed for the application).

HOWEVER, I'd recommend first downloading and reading forms 1025i, 1160i, 1163i, and 1219i from:

http://www.immi.gov.au/allforms/forms_num1.htm

And also read this page:
http://www.immi.gov.au/study/visas/subclasses_assessment.htm

Don't try to look for and download the medical exam forms -- you won't be able to get them until you complete the application. In the meantime you may want to schedule an appointment with a radiologist to give you a chest xray, who will then give the results directly to your primary physician who will be doing your med exam. Note however that both will need the required med forms at the time of your visit(s).

-pitman

Originally posted by Jatpot

Anyways, I'm an American, and I don't know if you are, so things may be different for you, but I just wanted to offer that bit of counsel.



Oh thanks for the heads up Jatpot. I'm not too worried about the visa because I'm Canadian and I've heard the online application is quite easy and takes 5-10 days to process.

I've been putting everything off because I'm knee deep in exams right now... not that they matter but still.. you want to do well.
:)

I'm not looking forward to finding housing.

Are all of you going to get there first and then find housing off-campus? That's what I'm planning on doing.

You're welcome caribou. I didn't know we could apply online pitman; oh well, I've already downloaded, printed, and filled in almost the entire form, so I might as well send it in the mail now!

Caribou--I am planning on arriving and staying in either temporary housing (at SUV or a dorm) or a hostel, and hopefully finding an apartment my first week there. I am looking online at domain.com.au, and will have a few apartments in mind when I arrive.

Tina

Texasblue,
I have no idea which triathlon team to race for. I would like to find a good group of motivated people to train with though. Any ideas about teams or groups?

bgeez,
I will be living at SUV for the whole year. I figured first year it would just be easiest, and then for the second year once I can get around and know the city well I will find something off campus. SUV has been very receptive and accomodating to me, so that has been nice.

Pitman,
I'm not sure how you know all of this stuff, but I sure am glad that you do.
Thanks for the links.

Hi, I think pitman's post has several errors, so be careful! His links are good, so use it to confirm what has been stated.

Here are the few errors from my own research:
Subclass is 574 NOT 573. This was specifically stated for Flinders (in their acceptance package, Pitman can check his too), unless Sydney is different, but I doubt it. Even though it is BMBS, you still apply under 574.

USA citizens cannot apply online because their assessment level is not assessment level 1. Only Canadians and some other countries can do so online.

The good thing for US (anyone applying from here at least, not necessarily citizens only) is that you can get your health screening anywhere you want.

Please again, double check all the info you get online. The links pitman sent should help you. As for the subclass, go ahead and check with Sydney (if they reply :) ).

I've gotten my eVisa. It takes them only one day after receiving the medical records to approve, or a total of only one week from initial application online to finish processing. I'm a citizen of a country that is at assessment level 1, of course.

Pitman and tl47, thanks for useful visa information. So anyone know if U. Sydney Faculty of medicine will be subclass 573 or 574? I keep getting message that says, "Your application cannot be accepted online as the Department has not been able to identify you. Please apply at an office of this Department. " Did anone else get this message? I live in U.S. right now, but my passport is Japan right now, so there shouldn't be assesment problem. I emailed evisa help desk, but they are closed for weekend. I was wondering if anyone knew why I get ths message.

I know that MBBS GMp prg is a graduate level course. but its an undergrad degree. I called the folks at Aussie Embassy. They said as an MBBS student, we need to file out 573 form!
henceforth i went on with my apllication. I didnt get anything from USyd suggesting what category of visa application needed to be filed.
573

I called the visa help line (for the millionth time this week) and the woman there said I needed to fill out 573 if it isn't a masters degree or a PhD. She first told me to ask my university; said that they would be able to best guide me; however, I explained to her that the IO office at USyd is not the quickest in replying. So, I'm not sure if 573 is the correct subclass or if she just wanted to give me some answer.

Also, my friend who is going to flinders told me 574, but as tl47 pointed out Flinders specifically states that in their forms, USyd doesn't state anything either way.

If anyone knows answers to all the visa and financial aid questions...post away!

Originally posted by bgeez
I know that MBBS GMp prg is a graduate level course. but its an undergrad degree. I called the folks at Aussie Embassy. They said as an MBBS student, we need to file out 573 form!
henceforth i went on with my apllication. I didnt get anything from USyd suggesting what category of visa application needed to be filed.
573

The MD in North America is actually still an undergraduate degree... it's more of a professional degree designation.

Go here, Faculty of Medicine of Memorial University


www.mun.ca/regoff/calenda...ctives.htm

"

In contrast to many other schools, the class size at the University's Medical School is small. This permits ready contact between students and faculty, and has obvious advantages in clinical teaching. At present normally 60 students are admitted annually to the first year of the undergraduate medical program.

"

And read what it says at the top here:
http://www.med.ubc.ca/md/financialAssistance/aftergraduation.htm

You can enter into a medical school without requiring an undergraduate degree...

A Ph.D is a true doctorate. One only has to wonder why there is a MD/Ph.D program if it was a graduate degree.

Originally posted by Jatpot
...So, I'm not sure if 573 is the correct subclass or if she just wanted to give me some answer.

Also, my friend who is going to flinders told me 574, but as tl47 pointed out Flinders specifically states that in their forms, USyd doesn't state anything either way.

If anyone knows answers to all the visa and financial aid questions...post away!

573.

I have no idea why Flinders would say 574, b.c. med programs lead to the bachelor's, and bachelor's => 573. Also, you can search for the subclass by program, for example med at UQ:

http://cricos.dest.gov.au/asp/CourseDetails.asp?CC=001955G

(this was from my bookmarks, as the site is down today, but you can search for your particular program).

Originally posted by Blackjack16
..I keep getting message that says, "Your application cannot be accepted online as the Department has not been able to identify you. Please apply at an office of this Department. " Did anone else get this message? I live in U.S. right now, but my passport is Japan right now, so there shouldn't be assesment problem. I emailed evisa help desk, but they are closed for weekend. I was wondering if anyone knew why I get ths message.

I don't know why you got that, procedures may be different for Japanese visa holders. Or, it may be that USyd, as with everything administrative, is behind the ball and hasn't registered your CoE code with the govt(?), in which case if the online app instantly looks you up via the code, you're not identifyable.

Well, again, check with Sydney U would probably be best. If they say 573, then go with that.

Flinders is certainly 574 --- rechecked, they actually devoted a whole paragraph to explain that although it is undergraduate, you should apply under 574. There might be some reasons for them to put it in a different subclass (tax? or funding? not sure). But I suspect the COE will be tied to the subclass... So, it is conceivable that it would differ from school to school.

Still, pitman, you sound like you have gotten your Visa online, but I'll be surprised if you managed to get it online as a US citizen... unless you are not, of course. Maybe the Oz's need to update their website/legal documents to reflect that US is now able to apply under assessment 1. Or at least, the online app should say it is ok for assessment 1 AND US citizens...

Good luck to all...

Pitman, thanks for the link to cricos... but then it doesn't say subclass on the page. Bachelor's yes... but not subclass. Flinders already said it was a Bachelor's degree, but specifically said to use 574... I'm hoping Flinders isn't wrong on this :). Anyway, I have my visa, so shouldn't be a problem.

Also, the cost info seems out of date for Flinders. Oh well... maybe that's what the locals are paying.

BTW, congrats for USyd admission, right? Sounds like you got admitted. Sorry if that's wrong. I have lost all internet connection except when I'm at a Starbucks or a Borders (wifi). So, I don't check around as much.

Yeah, I just went back to the cricos site, it doesn't say the subclass. But I SWEAR somewhere on the .gov.au sites it says medical degrees are 573! Damned confusing sites, though, can't they reference all the pertinent info on a single page?? Oh well, do whatever the school says. I was able to do electronic filing though, as assessment level 1 subclass 573 as an American. Passed the review process, got the med forms, am now waiting to get my exams this week (delayed due to blizzard/Nor'easter here in Boston!)

No, I didn't get accepted to USyd. In fact, I never got an official rejection that I was told would come in the mail. I emailed and called and emailed after their self-imposed stated deadline, explaining I needed a decision within the next week before the impending UQ deposit (giving myself a day of slack), and when I didn't get an answer over the week (actually, after 5 days I got an email saying, "All notices went out in the mail last Friday. You should be hearing within two weeks" -- how's that for typically not answering the question!?!?), I went for UQ. A couple days later, I called USyd to register a complaint and finally got an "unofficial" rejection by someone filling in for Victoria who was willing to sneak me the info, but again with a claim I'd get the official notice in the mail. I'm pretty sure I pissed off the dean of admissions and dean of students on my interview though, asking them to explain the missed deadlines, lack of timely communications, and some other self-defeating behavior (it had already become such an issue that I figured either I'd get satisfactory assurances, or they'd be petty). Some day I'll write up a detailed account of my experience with the schools and the interviews, etc., for posterity ;)

Good luck at Flinders -- I really liked their professionalism and approach (particularly Tony Edwards and Tim Neild), just not the city of Adelaide. But we'll be in touch..maybe to form an int'l student activist society ;)

-pitman

Did any of you encounter a "invalid COE" message when trying to submit your visa app online?
What did you do?

Originally posted by miler
Did any of you encounter a "invalid COE" message when trying to submit your visa app online?
What did you do?

Didn't get this, but it could be (if you're USyd?) that USyd screwed up and didn't register the CoE's with DIMIA (possible the same thing happened to Blackjack, above)...wouldn't surprise me considering how disorganized their adm. dept is. Call the med school ASAP and demand to get an answer while you wait (they'll never return your call).

-pitman

I talked to Grace Li in the IO at USYD and she called the Australian Embassy, and then called me back saying that it takes about 48 hrs for the ECOE to go into their system. So, hopefully that is the case....

Should have thought of that...bypass the med school altogether ;)