Hi everyone! Sharing my experience with all of you, since this forum has also helped me a lot.
Timeline:
Feb 2018- Took IELTS Exam
July 2018- Applied for a PhD at Macquarie University
(Entire July, I have been in constant communication with the Uni since they requested for additional documents such as my Masters Thesis, etc.)
August 15- Received my unconditional offer letter from Macquarie (3-yr PhD)
I was unsure yet if I would push through, so I maxed out the deadline given by the Uni.
November 27- Confirmed my enrollment (returned the Acceptance pack and paid 1 sem tuition plus OHSC)
November 29- Macquarie issued a COE for Visa Application
December 10- Medical at SLEC Ermita
December 13- Medical results uploaded, no further action required
December 15- Lodged my visa application
December 17- Visa granted. (mainit init pa)
I didn't expect it to be this fast since, December na ako nag lodge and peak season ito usually, plus ang tagal ng global processing times for Postgraduate Research Sector. And my supervisor expected me to be there by March pa, since he also told me na baka matagalan yung application.
My entire application, from applying to the Uni, medical to lodging my visa is DIY. Kaya kabado rin ako kasi I just did everything by myself, and just asked some forumers here for some clarifications.