35 is the new 30!

A great way to broaden your horizons is to go on a Working Holiday, or study overseas. Check out our tips on how to do it!

Have you always wanted to work or study overseas? Well there are over 40 countries in the world that have reciprocal Working Holiday Maker schemes with Australia. Here’s the full list. Generally you need to be under 30 years of age to do a Working Holiday, but from 1 November 2018, Australians and Canadians going to each other’s countries can be up to age 35.

Another option is studying overseas, and in many countries you can work to supplement your studies (Australia allows up to 40 hours per fortnight of paid work in term time, for example – see here). Scholarships are also a great way to travel the world, while getting some more qualifications under your belt. Organisations such as Rotary offer a range of travel scholarships – see here. 

Julian Ledger, CEO of YHA Australia, couldn't be more stoked! 

“YHA applauds the age extension to 35 for Working Holiday Makers between Australia and Canada. The Working Holiday Maker Scheme has been a resounding success for over 40 years, and many young people have availed of it over that period. Working holidays broaden horizons, build life experiences and strengthen cultural relationships. This age extension is welcome as career paths have become less linear and will enable those who were not able to take a working holiday when younger to now do so."

One such scholar named Katie Wilford is currently studying in Australia from the USA, and has this to say:

“I’m a trained teacher who gained my classroom experience in Pocahontas, Iowa, as well as volunteering for various local community organisations. As part of my undergraduate degree I also did a stint teaching in Panama, as well as undertaking studies in Oviedo, Spain. After a few challenges early in my career, and being an avid traveller, I ventured to Cuba and Scandinavia on summer vacation, to reflect on what life held in store.

Being a big believer in the power of hostels to bring people together, I checked into a youth hostel in Oslo, Norway, where I met some inspirational Aussies who literally changed the course of my life. They told me about the vibrant spirit on campus at their alma mater, Melbourne University, and that was it - I immediately applied for a Rotary Global Scholar scholarship. No one was more shocked than me when I soon found myself awarded the scholarship, and packing my bags to move to Australia!

I’m currently studying a Masters of Education with a specialisation in Mathematics at Melbourne University, and plan to return to teaching high school students on graduation, either at home or abroad. I’m also hoping to use my skills to help people in developing countries, as there are millions of children and adults around the world without access to even the most basic education. Having these opportunities has helped open my eyes about the world, and the potential to give back to society.”