hello aolee, i thought i have gone through the entire information in lodging the gsm visa but after reading some of the comments, i reckon i still don't know some aspects like this one, re: accredited schools. i checked the site and found out that my school falls under section 2 (Bicol University, a state owned university). Questions - (1) what are the benefits of having my school in section 2, and (2) how would this affects the new points system?
I am currently waiting for the result of my ielts and about to begin my career episodes in preparation for my skills assessment (i am applying through Engineers Australia). I am targeting to send the documents end of this month. My questions are - (1) should the certified copy of the documents be colored or cleared normal (black and white) photo copies will do? and, (2) would it be fine if i'll have my documents certified in the Philippines as i am currently working in the Maldives (and having my documents here certified costs me a lot than having it mark in the Philippines)?
Also, for sure, i'll be lodging my visa after July 1, which means the new points system applies. After running through the details, 2 items are still vague to me which are:
(1) qualifications (australian or recognized overseas) - 15 points (how can i earn this point?)
(2) professional year - 5 points (can you please further expound this and how can i earn this point as well?).
This so far is what i am targeting:
Age - 30 points (*i'm 29 at the moment)
English - 10 points (*i am only aiming for 7 in each sections as the basic requirements of Victoria for engineers)
Qualifications - 15 points (* BS Civil Engineering is a 5-year course, this is what i am clarifying above if i can claim the points)
Work Experience - 5 points (*i've been working in the Maldives for over 4 yrs and 2 yrs in the Philippines - relevant to my occupation i am nominating for skills assessment)
Professional Year - 5 points (* i wanna know how to claim this point)
State Sponsorship - 5 points (*i have sent an application to State of Victoria last week)
Many thanks. Rest assured that whatever information i could get from other forums, i'll definitely share to all of you guys!
Cheers.