ACS membership/ assessment

[USGC_aspire]

Hi People,

I have posted this thread in aus immi., but the response there is sometimes not a lot. Please pardon me for posting it here./..Would appreciate your responses..
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Good morning,

I live in the USA and I am planning to migrate to Australia. On account of this I need to have my skillset assessed by ACS. On looking at the website, I found out that for ACS members, the assessment fee is only $AUD100 (as opposed to $350 for non-members). Also, I hear that ACS membership goes a long way in helping with job search, networking with Professionals, etc.

1) Could you let me know if I can send in my application for ACS membership & ACS assessment together to save time ?
2) or do I Have to write the membership number on the assessment application form ?
3) Also, if I cannot send the membership application together with the assessment application, how long does it take to grant membership ?
4) Also, do I have to have Professional membership (Member, Fellow) to avail the huge discount available for ACS members ?

Sorry for the barrage of questions. Please advise.

Thanks !
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