Top 5 Things for International Students to Do Before Leaving for Australia
Embarking on an educational journey in Australia is an exciting adventure for international students. However, the process of relocating to a new country can be daunting, with numerous tasks to complete before departure. It’s essential to be well-prepared and organised to ensure a smooth transition.
Let’s discuss the top 5 crucial steps international students should take before leaving their home country for Australia. From securing your student visa to arranging accommodation and financial preparations, this guide will help you get ready for an enriching academic experience Down Under.
Student Visa and Passport
Studying in Australia as an international student requires you to secure a student visa before departure. To do so, you must ensure that your visa and passport information are accurate and up-to-date, meeting the Australian government's requirements. Ensure you have all required documents, including the Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from your chosen educational institution, proof of financial capacity, health insurance (OSHC), and English language proficiency test results.
Additionally, your passport should have at least six months of validity from your planned date of arrival in Australia.
Arrange Accommodation
It is essential to research and book your accommodations in advance. In Australia, student accommodation options include university dormitories, private rentals, shared apartments, or homestays.
If you are under the age of 18, it is a legal requirement to stay with an Australian host family until you turn 18. Homestay can help you settle into your new life quickly, offering the chance to participate in the daily routines of an Australian family and practice your English language skills.
International students who are under 18 years old need to live with a local carer in Australia, and the options are as follows:
With a parent;
With a blood relative over 21 years of age, who is nominated by a parent or legal guardian and approved by the Department of Home Affairs(opens in a new tab); or
In a homestay with an Australian family — you must apply through the homestay provider Australian Homestay Network (AHN)(opens in a new tab).
Health Insurance
Before arriving in Australia, it’s important to organise Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is a requirement for those with a student visa.
A good provider should:
Be accessible
Give you the ability to make claims quickly and easily
Innovate with the times
It is also important to register with a local General Practitioner (GP) and familiarise yourself with nearby medical facilities. Knowing where to go in case of illness or emergency is important.
If you feel overwhelmed by all of the OSHC options, we can organise a great price for you through our partner providers. Reach out to us to find out more
Financial Preparation
Carefully plan your finances to ensure you have sufficient funds for tuition fees, living expenses, and other costs. Opening an account with an Australian bank can help you save on fees. Some banks allow you to apply for an account before you arrive.
It’s advisable to have some Australian currency with you when you arrive. Most international airports and cities have currency exchange counters. Check with your bank to see if you can withdraw money from ATMs in Australia. If you can, find out if there are any fees and how much they are, so you can plan your withdrawals accordingly.
Pack Smart
Ensure you bring all essential documents, such as your passport, visa, Certificate of Enrollment (CoE), academic transcripts, and travel insurance. Pack essentials, including clothing suitable for Australia's climate, any prescribed medications with a doctor's note, and personal items that will make you feel at home.
While you may want to bring many things to Australia, be mindful of your baggage allowance and prioritise the most important items. Bring both winter clothing and light summer wear to cover a year's worth of seasons. Ensure everything you pack complies with airline regulations. Each airline has specific guidelines and regulations, so be sure to review them on the airline's website before you travel.
