Pre-Departure Session for United Kingdom
Congratulations!
Choosing to study in the UK is an exciting decision that opens doors to world-class education and unique cultural experiences. To help you prepare, resources like Prepare for Success offer valuable guidance for international students.
Planning your Arrival
Being well-prepared will make your journey smoother:
- Plan your route from the airport to your accommodation in advance.
- Many universities provide airport pickup services—book early if needed.
- Arrive in time for your university’s welcome or orientation week. The National Union of Students (NUS) also hosts a welcome program every September to help new students settle in.
- Keep details of your accommodation handy and plan your transport (taxi, bus, train, ride-share).
- Carry some UK currency for small expenses upon arrival.
Packing and Luggage
- Check airline baggage allowances and weight limits to avoid extra fees.
- Avoid prohibited items such as alcohol, tobacco, weapons, certain foods, and unapproved medicines.
- Do not carry items for others.
- UK customs may inspect your bags—pack responsibly.
- Label luggage with your name and UK address.
- Keep valuables and essentials (passport, documents, medication, electronics, money) in your carry-on bag.
Keep Important Documents Safe
Make photocopies or digital backups of:
- Passport (main page)
- Airline tickets
- Travel insurance certificate
- University acceptance letter
- Key addresses and phone numbers
- Prescriptions or medical letters
Checklist for Your University
Before departure, confirm:
- Airport pickup arrangements
- Directions and costs to reach your university from the airport
- Exact arrival date and location at your institution
- That you have informed your university of your travel plans
- A 24-hour contact number for emergencies
UK Climate and Clothing
The UK has a temperate but changeable climate:
- Summer (June–Aug): Mild, sometimes rainy
- Autumn (Sept–Nov): Cool and damp
- Winter (Dec–Feb): Cold, often wet—bring warm clothing
- Spring (Mar–May): Fresh, with occasional showers
Pack clothes for all seasons, especially warm layers for winter.
Transportation in the UK
The UK has extensive transport networks by bus, train, taxi, and ferry.
Useful websites:
Settling In – Quick Checklist
- Arrange accommodation
- Understand Council Tax requirements
- Organize your finances
- Have a medical check-up
- Know what to do if you fall ill
Culture Shock
It’s normal to feel overwhelmed when adapting to a new culture. To adjust more easily:
- Learn about UK culture before you arrive
- Bring familiar items from home for comfort
- Ask questions when unsure
- Join student clubs, sports, or social events
- Connect with other international students
- Use university support services
Follow the Rules
- Respect local laws and cultural norms
- Attend classes regularly
- Do not exceed your permitted working hours
- Violations may result in fines or visa cancellation
Personal Safety
The UK is generally safe, but always stay alert:
- Be aware of your surroundings
- In an emergency, dial 999 for police, fire, or ambulance
Working in the UK
- Students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time.
- After graduation, you may apply for a Tier 2 (General) visa if you secure a skilled job offer.
Food in the UK
- Wide variety of international cuisines available
- Traditional dishes include: fish and chips, English breakfast, pies, bangers and mash
- Options available for special dietary needs
Living Expenses
- Immediate needs: about £250
- Estimated monthly costs:
- London: £1,265
- Outside London: £1,025
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pre-Departure Checklist for Australia
Apply for Your Student Visa
- Confirm that you meet all entry requirements.
- Pay your tuition fees and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) as listed in your Letter of Offer.
- Obtain your Confirmation of Enrolment (eCoE).
- Contact the nearest Australian Embassy/High Commission or authorized agent.
- Lodge your visa application early.
Book Your Airline Ticket
- Reserve your flight once you’ve accepted your university place—seats fill quickly before semester starts.
- Allow enough time for visa processing.
- Arrive before Orientation Week, as attendance is compulsory.
Prepare to Leave Home
- Decide what personal items to bring.
- Plan your finances and budget.
- Learn about health checks required for entry to Australia.
- Familiarize yourself with academic dates, university policies, and procedures.
Essential Documents to Carry
Bring originals (or certified copies) and keep digital backups:
- Valid passport (check expiry)
- Letter of Offer
- eCoE and student visa documents
- Academic qualifications and transcripts
- Driver’s license (if applicable)
- Medical history or prescriptions for ongoing medication
Clothing for Australia’s Climate
- Summer (Sept–Feb): Hot (18–30°C). Pack light clothing like T-shirts and shorts.
- Winter (Mar–Aug): Cool (7–19°C). Bring warm clothing and a waterproof jacket.
Accommodation Options
- Choose from homestays, student lodges, shared apartments, or private rentals.
- Arrange housing before departure, ideally once you accept your offer.
- If unsure, consider booking a Homestay for 2–4 weeks until you find permanent accommodation.
Understanding Your Visa Conditions
To keep your visa valid, you must:
- Study full-time and maintain satisfactory academic progress.
- Keep enrolment valid and inform your university of any visa changes.
- Notify your university of any change in your Australian address.
- Maintain financial capacity for tuition and living expenses.
- Work no more than 40 hours per fortnight during study periods (unlimited during breaks).
- Maintain OSHC health insurance.
- Remain with your initial education provider for at least 6 months unless released.
Financial Planning
- Bring at least A$700 in cash and access to another A$2,000 for your first week.
- Expect setup costs of about A$2,000 for bond, advance rent, and utilities.
- Use traveler’s cheques, drafts, or cards instead of large amounts of cash.
- Weekly living expenses:
- Single: A$410 on average
- Family: A$770–970
- Approximate costs:
- Rent: A$200–550 (sharing is cheaper)
- Public transport: A$30/week (student discounts available)
- Meals: A$8–25 at restaurants
- Textbooks: A$150–400 per trimester
Arrival in Australia
Airport Transport Options
- Shuttle buses (book online for affordable transfers)
- Trains (convenient access from airport terminals to city centres)
- Taxis (approx. A$40 from airport to city; maxi taxis available for groups)
Staying in Touch
- Inform family and friends once you arrive.
- Share your address and contact details.
- Update them if you move—universities cannot disclose your information.
Mobile & Internet
- Check if your mobile phone is unlocked for international use.
- Ensure laptops are compatible with Australian networks.
- Consider prepaid SIM cards to avoid unexpected bills.
- Compare providers at:
- youcompare.com.au/mobile
- broadbandguide.com.au
Opening a Bank Account
- Open an account soon after arrival using your passport and local address.
- After 6 weeks, additional ID (driver’s license, birth certificate) may be required.
- Some banks waive fees for full-time students.
- Major banks: ANZ, Commonwealth Bank, NAB, Westpac, HSBC, St. George, Bankwest.
Medical Services & Health Cover
- Australia has excellent healthcare facilities.
- OSHC provides rebates for many medical services.
- To see a doctor (GP), book appointments in advance.
- Prescriptions: A$30 for antibiotics; over-the-counter meds (e.g., paracetamol) cost around A$12.
Working in Australia
- Students may work 40 hours per fortnight during semesters and unlimited hours in breaks.
- Typical part-time jobs: hospitality, retail, administration.
- Do not rely solely on part-time work to fund studies.
- Apply for a Tax File Number (TFN) at ato.gov.au.
Finding a Job
- Job listings: seek.com.au, mycareer.com.au, careerone.com.au.
- Networking and word-of-mouth are also effective.
- Prepare a professional résumé (CV) highlighting your skills and experience.
University Life
Orientation Week
- An introduction to Australian academic life and culture.
- Receive your Student ID, finalize enrolment, and meet staff and peers.
Enrolment & Census Dates
- During orientation, complete course enrolment.
- Note census dates—after this deadline, withdrawals may result in financial and academic penalties.
Student Responsibilities
- Keep your contact details updated.
- Maintain academic progress and valid enrolment.
- Keep OSHC active.
Support Services
- Student Services Manager: helps with academic and personal adjustments.
- Specialist staff: guide you on course changes, eligibility, and applications.
Code of Conduct & Privacy
- Follow your university’s student rights and responsibilities.
- Personal data is protected under privacy policies but may be shared when legally required or for professional placements.
