Mates Scheme Australia: Visa program for Indian university graduates and early professionals

Mates Scheme Australia: Visa program for Indian university graduates and early professionals

Edited By Ipshita ghosh | Updated on Jan 21, 2025 04:55 PM IST

Are you planning to or make a bright career in Australia? Then, there is a golden opportunity to get the Australia work permit. Australia offers a post-study work visa exclusively to Indian university graduates and early-career professionals. It has introduced a new and exciting route, under the Mates Scheme Australia. Acronym for the Mobility Arrangement for Talented Early-professionals Scheme Subclass 403, MATES visa is a new pathway introduced by Australia.

This Story also Contains
  1. What Is the Mates Program?
  2. Who is Eligible for MATES?
  3. What are the advantages of MATES?
  4. Eligible Institutes Under MATES Scheme
  5. How Are Applicants Selected For Mates Visa?
  6. Registration Process for MATES visa
Mates Scheme Australia: Visa program for Indian university graduates and early professionals
Mates Scheme Australia: Visa program for Indian university graduates and early professionals

In this article, we will discuss everything that you need to know about this promising new pathway for young talent.

What Is the Mates Program?

Established on May 23, 2023 under the Migration and Mobility Partnership Arrangement (MMPA) between India and Australia, MATES promotes and looks after two-way migration and mobility between these two countries, monitoring and eliminating illegal and irregular migration.

The Mobility Arrangement for Talented Early-professionals Scheme is a new initiative to bridge the gap between Australia and India, fostering skilled migration and knowledge transfer between the two countries.

Who is Eligible for MATES?

In order to be eligible for MATES program, Indian nationals must meet the following eligibility criteria:

  • The applicants must be 30 years of age or younger at the time of applying.

  • The applicant must not have applied to MATES earlier.

  • Must hold a Bachelor’s or higher degree in one of these study fields that are crucial to Australia’s workforce (renewble energy, mining, engineering, Informations Communication Technology, artificial intelligence, financial technology, agricultural technology).

  • Show proficiency in English language in test like TOEFL(atleast 64), IELTS (atleast overall band score of 6, with not less than 5 in each of the four components), PTE academic (atleast 50).

  • Have recently graduated within 2 years from a reputed educational institution.

The best part about the MATES program is that it does not require any sponsorship from Australian employer. This makes applying to MATES feasible and accessible for talented Indian students who want to advance their careers independently.

What are the advantages of MATES?

There are several benefits of a MATES visa. Any applicant who gets entry in Australia with MATES are allowed to:

  1. Live and work in Australia up to two years: Applicants who are MATES visa holders are given the opportunity to work in different sectors, across various industries in Australia. This gives them the exposure to enhance their professional skills and build their network.

  2. Bring dependants with them to Australia: Under the MATES visa, visa holders get an opportunity to bring their spouses and dependant children with them to Australia. Additionally, the spouses also get the right to work in Australia.

  3. Annual visa cap: Mates has an annual visa cap of issuing 3,000 temporary visas to Indian university students and early professionals.

  4. Multiple entries: This visa is a multiple-entry visa that allows visa holders to travel freely to and fro Australia within the 2-year period.

  5. No need of sponsorship: MATES candidates can move to Australia for work without the requirement of any sponsorship from employer.

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Eligible Institutes Under MATES Scheme

Here is a list of some Indian institutes that are eligible for MATES visa program:

How Are Applicants Selected For Mates Visa?

Applicants who apply for MATES visa are selected through the pre-application process of ballot registration. The Ballot selection period opens on January 8, 2025 and closes on 30 May, 2025. The candidates who get selected to work after studying in Australia get notified with a selection letter and an invitation to apply for the visa.

Also read: Australia student visa

Registration Process for MATES visa

To apply for the MATES visa program, applicants need to follow these steps:

  1. Check eligibility: The first step is to check whether you are eligible for the MATES ballot and visa or not. You can check the eligibility on the Australian Home Affairs website.

  2. Register in the ballot: Once you have confirmed your eligibility, check the ballot registration open date an register in the applicable MATES ballot. To do this, register for an ImmiAccount and pay and submit your ballot registration through that. You will then receive a confirmation registration email. The ballot will take place electronically, and random registrants will be selected to apply for a Subclass 403 MATES visa. Those applicants who are not selected in the ballot would not be able to apply for Australia work permit visa.

  3. Lodge visa application: If you have been selected, then you will receive a selection letter notification via email. Make sure you apply for the MATES visa on or before the date mentioned in the mail. You must submit your australia visa application using the link generated in the ballot registration process or through the ImmiAccount. Before submitting the application, ensure that you have attached all the required documents.

  4. After you have applied: After you submit your australia visa application, the Department of Home Affairs will go through your application and let you know if you are selected or not. In case, your visa is granted, you will receive a visa grant notice that will have all the important information about your visa (visa conditions, last date for arrival in Australia, period of stay, and visa expiry date).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who is eligible for the Mates program?

Young Indian university graduates and early professionals are eligible for MATES visa program in Australia. However, there are certain other eligibility criteria as well that an applicant must meet to be eligible for Australian work visa.

2. Who is eligible for Australian mates visa?

Applicants aged 30 years or below (inclusive) who haven’t been involved in the mates program earlier can apply for Australian mates visa. They must be able to show english proficiency with at least 6 overall band score in IELTS with at least 5 in each of the four components.

3. What is the mates visa in India?

Talented Indian individuals can live and work in Australia with the MATES visa. Australia offers 3,000 Sub-class 403 MATES stream visas each year.  

4. How much is the Australian mates visa fee?

The MATES working visa australia cost is $365 which is the application fee. Other than this, applicants also need to pay $25 as a pre-application cost for the ballot. These must be paid at the time of visa lodgement. If applicants have dependants in their MATES visa application, then they will also be required to pay additional fees.

5. Which category is mates visa under?

Under MATES, Indian university graduates and early professionals from India’s top universities get an opportunity to apply for MATES visa program.It allows them to live and work in Australia up to two years.

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To get Permanent Residency (PR) in Australia, it's not required to pursue a master's degree on a student visa. You can apply for PR through different visa pathways like the Skilled Independent visa or Skilled Nominated visa, which are based on points. These visas assess factors like your age, education, work experience, and English proficiency.

However, studying in Australia can still help your PR chances. After completing a master's degree, you may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa, allowing you to work in Australia temporarily. This work experience can boost your points for a PR application.

It's important to know that recent changes in Australian immigration policies have led to an increase in student visa fees and stricter rules. From July 2024, the student visa fee was raised to A$1,600, and stricter measures are in place to prevent students from switching visas frequently.

In short, while studying in Australia can improve your PR prospects, it’s not the only way to apply for PR. You can still apply for PR through the points-based visa system without studying there. However, recent policy changes have increased fees and added regulations, so it’s a good idea to stay updated and consult with a migration expert to choose the best option for you.

Hello,

Here’s a brief overview of your questions regarding higher studies in physiotherapy in Australia:

  1. Difference between Doctorate (DPT) and Masters :

    • Doctorate in Physiotherapy (DPT) : Typically a clinical doctorate, focused on advanced clinical practice, research, and patient care. It’s a professional degree for those seeking higher clinical expertise and leadership roles.
    • Masters in Physiotherapy : More research-oriented and can be specialized in areas like sports, musculoskeletal therapy, or neurophysiotherapy. It’s ideal for expanding knowledge in specific fields.
  2. DPT without a Master's : Yes, you can pursue a DPT directly after a BPT (Bachelor of Physiotherapy). Some universities offer direct entry into the DPT program without requiring a Master's degree.

  3. Residency in Australia : Physiotherapists in Australia can apply for residency through the Skilled Migration Program if they meet the qualifications and requirements, including obtaining registration with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) .

  4. Requirements for University Admission :

    • Academic qualifications : A BPT degree with good academic standing.
    • English proficiency : IELTS or TOEFL scores.
    • Work experience : Some programs may require clinical experience.
    • AHPRA Registration : For practice in Australia, you must register with AHPRA to work as a physiotherapist.

These are general points; individual university requirements may vary.

To get list of top colleges in Australia, visit : https://studyabroad.careers360.com/australia/universities-in-australia-unvlst

Hope it helps !

Australia is home to several prestigious universities offering Aerospace Engineering programs. These programs are designed to equip students with advanced knowledge and skills in designing, developing, and maintaining aircraft, spacecraft, and related systems. Some of the top universities for Aerospace Engineering in Australia include:


1. **University of Sydney**: Known for its comprehensive aerospace program, the University of Sydney offers a Bachelor's and Master's in Aerospace Engineering. It provides hands-on learning through state-of-the-art facilities and industry partnerships.

2. **Monash University**: Monash is renowned for its research in engineering and offers a well-rounded Aerospace Engineering program that includes both theoretical and practical components.


3. **University of New South Wales (UNSW)**: UNSW is one of the leading engineering schools in Australia and offers a top-tier Aerospace Engineering program, emphasizing innovation and cutting-edge technology.


4. **RMIT University**: RMIT in Melbourne offers a Bachelor of Engineering (Aerospace Engineering) (Honours), focusing on the practical aspects of aeronautical and space systems.


These programs usually require students to have strong backgrounds in physics and mathematics. Admission typically involves meeting specific academic criteria and, in some cases, interviews or entrance exams. Graduates have excellent job prospects in both the aviation and space sectors, within Australia and globally.

Hi there,

Hope you are doing fine.

Yes it is possible to pursue a Masters in Education (M.Ed) in Australia with a bachelor’s degree in engineering (B.E). Australian universities have flexible entry requirements and value diverse academic backgrounds. However you will need to meet specific admission criteria set by the universities you are interested in.

To enhance your application you can highlight any relevant experience you have in teaching, training or educational projects. Some universities might also require you to submit a statement of purpose explaining your interest in transitioning to education and how your background in engineering could contribute to your study and future career in education.

You should review the specific requirements for each university and program by reaching out to the admissions offices of the universities you are interested in to confirm their acceptance criteria and discuss your unique background.

Hope this resolves your query.

A B.Ed. from IGNOU may be recognized but requires additional assessments in the UK, Australia, and New Zealand.

  • UK : Assessment by UK ENIC and possibly additional qualifications like a PGCE.
  • Australia : Evaluation by AITSL and meeting state-specific criteria.
  • New Zealand : Assessment by the Teaching Council of Aotearoa New Zealand, including possible English proficiency and practical teaching requirements.

Further qualifications or training might be necessary in each country.


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