SOP Sample for Australia Study Visa

To

The Visa Officer

Australian High Commission

Sub: Application requesting a study permit to Australia

Dear Sir/Madam,

I, Lalit Gulati, hereby express my sincere thanks to you for the perusal of my application. I would like to introduce myself as a Mechanical Engineering graduate, looking forward to broadening my learning horizons by the way of a higher education program. I have opted for a Master of Engineering Management program at Macquarie University, Australia. I would like to add that I have also been presented with the Letter of Acceptance from the University, with the program set to commence in July 2022. Through this application, I seek to demonstrate my reasons to pursue higher studies in Australia, my plans for the future, my reasons to return to India after completing the chosen program. Please allow me to walk you through my profile thus far.

Personal and academic background

I hail from the humble city of Nagpur, nestled in the state of Maharashtra, India. I belong to a beautiful family consisting of my father, mother, and elder brother. My father, Rahul Gulati, an Officiating Principal at SRM College, Amravti, Maharashtra. My mother, Rekha Gulati, is a Demonstrator at the IT Department at Dr. RMS Institute, Amravati, Maharashtra. My Brother, Lakshman Gulati, is currently placed in Adelade, in the capacity of a Business Analyst at Accenture. My family has been incredibly supportive of my goals and interests, and it is because of their constant encouragement that I have reached this far in life. I owe a debt of gratitude to my parents for giving wings to all my endeavors and instilling in me the passion to do well in life.

If I go ponder over my penchant for Engineering, I would say that it budded out of my keenness towards science and technology. After completing my Senior Secondary Certificate from the Maharashtra State Board in 2012 with an aggregate of 87 percent, I opted for the Science stream. I completed my Higher Secondary Certificate in the year 2014 scoring 69 percent as the aggregate. My burgeoning inclination towards Mechanical Engineering had me opting for it as my major for my bachelor’s program. I enrolled in a Bachelor of Engineering program at BBD University, which I completed in 2020 with a CGPA of  8.0/10.0. The bachelor’s program was what laid a strong foundation for all my endeavors that followed. There, I learned about the way mechanical systems are designed, analyzed, manufactured, and maintained. I had the chance to learn about subjects such as material design, thermodynamics, manufacturing processes, mechanics, and fluid power. I also undertook a variety of projects during my bachelor studies that had me utilizing my conceptual understanding.

During my undergraduate studies, I also had the chance to intern at Srilakshmi Electricals Pvt. Ltd. As a Servicing Intern, I worked there for six months and attained a glimpse of the professional world. It was this experience that made me realize that to be able to establish myself as a professional in this dynamic and rapidly evolving industry, not only do I need to have robust technical skills under my belt, but also possess a sound managerial dexterity. It is this desire to bridge the gap between engineering and management that makes me solidify it through a master’s degree.

Why Master of Engineering program?

Engineering Management is a field that amalgamates certain elements of both engineering as well as management, creating a common ground for engineering-focused businesses to thrive. The Master of Engineering Management program focuses on this very aspect of growth, acting as the platform for students to not only bolster their knowledge of engineering but also to explore their potential to emerge as business leaders. The interdisciplinary nature of this program is of particular interest to me, as it blends the knack for problem-solving in the context of engineering and the concepts of administration and planning. Offered by Macquarie University, the program covers concepts such as Enterprise Management, Engineering Management, and Communication, Managing Supply Chains, Engineering Entrepreneurship, and a host of electives to pick from. Through this program, I will have the chance to delve into the complexities of the disciplines of engineering, management, and business; and will develop the necessary analytical and critical thinking skills to be able to solve complex issues in the present landscape. Also, I will be able to build my repertoire of knowledge in my preferred area and will develop strong research skills along the way. This program, with its direct approach and comprehensive nature, will help me evolve into a learned professional, and will give me the much-needed competitive edge to thrive in the Indian job market. With the acquired knowledge and skills, I will be able to set a strong path for me ahead.

Why Macquarie University?

Situated in the heart of Macquarie Park Innovation District, Macquarie University offers ample facilities for the students to be a part of. Right from a world-class library to beautiful museums, from healthcare amenities to fitness niceties, the university reflects creativity and promotes self-fulfillment through its offerings. Macquarie Business School, a pioneer in management-related courses is among the top 1 percent of institutions across the globe, and among the top ten Australian institutes, in terms of business-oriented courses. Learning from an institution that is globally acclaimed for its quality of education will be a dream come true and will also enhance my employment prospects in the future.

Out of many Australian and other foreign universities offering higher education programs in Engineering Management, it was the one offered by Macquarie University that stood out for me. The way the program is designed meets all my learning expectations and career goals. The modules encompassed by this program are perfect for me to develop managerial soundness along with technical prowess, as they will not only nurture my passion for engineering but will also help me explore my growth potential as a leader. As an Engineer, I can surely contribute to the sphere of innovation. But to create an impact, I need to be able to move up the corporate ladder. When it comes to employability for engineers, managerial skills have become an important prerequisite to land higher-level positions at top companies. I do not want to limit myself as an Engineer, rather grow into bigger shoes and make myself eligible for higher-level job roles. Therefore, I have chosen to study at Macquarie University as this revered institute offers personalized degrees, ample practical exposure, and flexible study options to benefit from.

Macquarie University holds its ground for imparting unsurpassed learning experiences to students across various disciplines, securing the first position in terms of graduate employment rate. The university is the best in Sydney, encompassing excellent study programs that are taught by a faculty of industry experts. The university is known to be among the top 1 percent of the universities in the world and is also highly regarded for its excellence in research. Learning from the best minds in a diverse environment will not only enhance my knowledge and skills but will also strengthen my personality. I am eager to be a part of this university and implement the values acquired from all my experiences thus far.

Why Australia and not India?

When it comes to attaining higher education, India isn’t my preferred destination as the exposure that I attain from a foreign University will benefit me in many ways than a degree attained in India. After considerable research and endless discussion, Australia checks all the boxes. State-of-the-art educational infrastructure, practice-based courses, globally accredited degrees, and industry exposure are some of the core factors that make me opt for Australia as my preferred educational destination. While there were similar courses in India, none of those matched the offerings of Australian programs. Also, for me to emerge into a learned industry professional, practical experience is an important factor that will set me apart from the other potential candidates in India. In India, the learning imparted is more theoretical in nature. Merely theoretical learning isn’t going to help me progress in my career, as practical exposure is equally important. By studying in Australia, I will be exposed to various facets of practical learning, such as projects and internships, which will elevate my learning and will prepare me to deal with the challenges of the outside world.

In addition to exhibiting excellent learning standards at affordable rates, Australia also is a culturally diverse nation, with a high standard of living. The country is a popular tourist destination apart from being a highly sought-after educational hub. I am certain that this country will not only equip me with the necessary knowledge and skills to excel on a professional front but will also inculcate in me the very values that will transform me into a well-rounded professional.

Future plans

Through the offerings of the chosen degree program, I look forward to attaining the ability to apply my analytical skills towards engineering management operations. I want to enhance my decision-making and strategic skills to pose as an ideal candidate for a vast spectrum of job prospects back in my home country. In India, there are many companies such as Google, Amazon, Accenture, Apple, and Microsoft that are actively hiring Engineering Managers. These companies look for candidates possessing the ability to spearhead major projects and lead teams. Also, Project Manager is another role that is highly sought after in India and there is also a high demand for such professionals by companies such as Infosys, Syntel, Amazon, Deloitte, and TCS. I would love to start as a Manager, looking after the overall product or the project life cycle. I want to integrate my learnings towards complex projects and provide valuable inputs to ensure project success. I would love to be associated with firms such as Tata Group, General Electric (GE), and the supply chain giants like Cisco, Johnson and Johnson, and Colgate-Palmolive.

After attaining sufficient experience, I intend to move up the corporate ladder and take up more challenging roles such as that of an Engineering Manager. In India, the starting salary package for Engineering Managers varies between INR 12,00,000 to INR 14,00,000; which can soar higher considering factors such as workability and experience. Also, in my home country, Australian education is quite highly regarded, and I am certain that with the acquired learning, I will be able to fit perfectly into these roles and contribute meaningfully to their continuous growth. Not only will I be successful in moving up the corporate ladder but will also be entitled to higher pay packages that will pave a way for a brighter and more secure future for me and my family ahead.

In the wake of competition, it has become increasingly difficult for people to set themselves apart from the crowd to be able to land better positions and higher pay packages. Considering that industrial growth is witnessing a sharp upheaval, there will be an increased demand for managers who possess the ability to handle complex situations and can resolve any challenges that come their way. An Australian degree will enable me to meet that demand and will prepare me to flourish in a professional setting.

Ties to home country

In my homeland, my family is my strongest tie. My parents have extended every ounce of support towards my goals and I am grateful for that. As much as I want to visit Australia and experience its education and culture, I have no plans to settle there. I want to return to India as I have my future planned out in my home country. Not only do I intend to tap the best professional prospects and embark on a rewarding career ahead, but I also want to give my parents the care and support they deserve. I want to make them proud and also extend my emotional and financial support in the next couple of years. Since my sister is also in Australia at present, I don’t want to leave my parents alone. I want to be their pillar of support and take care of them. Also, we have sufficient movable and immovable assets back in India that need to be taken care of. Thus, I will return to India and be with my loved ones.

Details of finances and accommodation

Should I be granted an Australian study permit, I would like to clarify that I have more than sufficient funds to comfortably manage my educational as well as living expenses in Australia. Here is a breakdown of my expenses:

• Annual tuition fee: AUD 40,000
• Annual living expenses: AUD 20,290
• OSHC: AUD 1,365
• Travel Fare: AUD 2,000

In this way, the annual cost of tuition and living for me in Australia will be AUD 63,655.

As far as the accommodation is concerned, I will be opting for either a shared rental property or a guest house accommodation. While the former will cost me AU$100-AU$250 per week, the latter will clock in AU$80-AU$130 per week. My mother has generously agreed to sponsor my education and stay in Australia. She has combined savings amounting to INR 2,03,46,956 in PNB, SBI and Indian Bank. We also have a house measuring 2245 square feet in Nagpur, Maharashtra, India valued at INR 72,98,234 and a plot of 2935 square feet land with a valuation of INR 45,46,000 in Amravti, Maharashtra, India. The proof of finances has been attached alongside this application for your kind perusal.

Conclusion

I hereby state that I am a genuine temporary entrant, only willing to visit Australia for educational purposes. During my stay, I will follow the below-mentioned visa conditions in Australia:

8105 – I will not work more than 40 hours per fortnight when my course is in session.

8202 – I must remain enrolled in my registered course; I must maintain enrolment in my registered course of the same level (master’s degree) and I must maintain satisfactory attendance in my course.

8501 – I must maintain my OSHC.

8516 – I should maintain sufficient financial capacity for the duration of my stay.

8533 – I must inform my education provider of my address within 7 days after reaching Australia and also notify my updated address in case I change the same in Australia.