International Students
Ridley Melbourne is pleased to welcome overseas students to its courses at any level. However, along with general admission procedures, there are certain requirements that must be met before overseas students are accepted for study - you must show evidence of means of financial support, you must provide two recommendations from your home country and you must demonstrate a proficiency in written and spoken English. See below for more details.
Support
Government regulations require that evidence of means of financial support be provided before any overseas student is granted a visa to enter Australia.
Ridley Melbourne also believes that overseas students should have some support from their home church. Where possible, the college seeks an assurance that a suitable post is available in the student's home country after the completion of study.
Recommendation from the home country
Ridley Melbourne asks for references from two people who know the student well. One of these should preferably have had experience of the student's involvement in the life and ministry of the church.
English language proficiency
Proficiency in both spoken and written English is essential for undertaking theological studies, particularly at an advanced level. We therefore require that students demonstrate their ability in English by providing evidence of their score on the IELTS test (International English Language Testing System).
Overseas student may arrange to sit for the IELTS test in a major city of their own country. The test is administered by officers of the International Development Program of Australian Universities and Colleges (IDP) or the British Council.
The results of the test should be sent to Ridley Melbourne, or brought to an interview by students already in Australia. Students are normally required to reach the standard of Band 6.5 or above.
Studying by distance
Under section 9.4 of the National Code of Practice for Registration Authorities and Providers of Education and Training to Overseas Students 2007, overseas students residing in Australia under a student visa must not undertake more than 25% of their total course by distance and/or online learning, or allowed to study units exclusively in distance or online learning in any compulsory study period.
Interviews and Acceptance
Students already in Australia should then arrange an interview with a member of the academic staff. Students must have their IELTS test results before arranging an interview. Students will be notified of acceptance for study at Ridley Melbourne after satisfactory completion of admission procedures. A Confirmation of Enrolment form will then be issued by the Registrar.
International Student Applications
Ridley attracts and welcomes students from all over the world. If you are an overseas student then you should follow the same application process as Australian citizens. You also need to contact the Director of Theological Educaiton and Formation to discuss your eligibility and course plans.
Director of Theological Education & Formation
Rev Dr Tim Foster p: 61 3 9207 4800
Academic Dean
Rev Dr Linday Wilson p: 61 3 9207 4800
Registrar
Mrs Katrine Bramley p: 61 3 9207 4800 option #3
Student Admissions
Mrs Sheila Calwell p: 61 3 9207 4800 option #3
Where to go for more information:
Futher information about studying in Australia can be found at the Australian College of Theology's website at www.actheology.edu.au or at the Department of Immigration and Citizenship website at www.immi.gov.au
