US citizen visiting Australia enrolled to study in Shanghai

Hi, I am awaiting mail with JW202 and admission letter, which were issued on January 29th 2013 in the Shanghai theater academy. I am visiting friends in Australia. Can i apply for visa in Australia given it is 20 days until flight arrival in Shanghai despite that Chinese Visa authorities in Australia recommend applying 30days prior to arrival on their website? Is applying for a tourist visa an option that can be adjusted in the academy later? Lastly is it possible to obtain visa within the 72h visa free period upon landing in Shanghai with the academy on location? Thank You!