International Student Checklist Before Starting Your Course in Australia

Preparing before your departure can save time, reduce stress, and help you avoid unnecessary problems after arriving in Australia.

Here are some essential tasks to complete before you travel.

Confirm Your Enrolment

Before booking your flights, make sure you have received confirmation of your enrolment from your education provider.

Check that you have:

• Your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)
• Course commencement date
• Orientation details
• Campus address
• Tuition fee payment confirmation (if applicable)

Keep electronic and printed copies of these documents in a safe place.

Check Your Passport

Your passport should remain valid throughout your stay in Australia. If it is due to expire soon, consider renewing it before travelling.

Understand Your Student Visa Conditions

Before arriving, take time to understand the conditions attached to your Australian student visa.

These may include requirements relating to:

• Maintaining enrolment
• Meeting attendance requirements
• Making satisfactory academic progress
• Keeping your contact details up to date
• Maintaining Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)

Understanding your responsibilities will help you stay compliant throughout your studies.

Arrange Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)

International students generally require Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of their student visa.

OSHC helps cover many medical and hospital expenses while you are living in Australia.

Before travelling:

• Confirm your policy dates
• Save your policy number
• Download your insurer's mobile app (if available)
• Keep emergency contact details accessible

Book Your Flights

Book flights that allow enough time to settle into Australia before your orientation and course commencement.

Arriving a few days early gives you time to:

• Recover from travel
• Explore your local area
• Purchase essentials
• Become familiar with public transport
• Attend orientation without feeling rushed

Finding suitable accommodation is one of the most important parts of preparing for life in Australia.

Depending on your preferences and budget, you may choose:

Shared Accommodation

Sharing a house or apartment is a popular option for many students because it reduces living expenses and provides opportunities to meet new people.

Private Rental

Private rentals offer greater independence but generally involve higher living costs.

Homestay

Living with an Australian family can help improve your English communication skills while giving you the opportunity to experience local culture.

Student Accommodation

Purpose-built student accommodation often includes furnished rooms, study spaces, communal facilities, and social activities designed specifically for students.

Packing thoughtfully will make your first few weeks much easier.

Consider bringing:

Important Documents

Carry originals and electronic copies of:

• Passport
• Student visa details
• Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)
• OSHC information
• Flight itinerary
• Driver's licence (if applicable)
• Educational certificates
• Emergency contact information

Clothing

Australia's weather varies throughout the year.

Pack clothing suitable for:

• Warm weather
• Cooler evenings
• Rain
• Comfortable walking
• Classroom environments

If you're studying a trade qualification, your education provider will advise you about any personal protective equipment (PPE) or specific clothing requirements for practical classes.

Electronics

Bring essential devices such as:

• Laptop
• Mobile phone
• Chargers
• Power bank
• Headphones
• USB storage device

Australia uses Type I electrical plugs, so don't forget a travel adapter if needed.

Your first few days are important for settling into your new environment.

Purchase a SIM Card

Having an Australian mobile number makes it easier to communicate with your education provider, accommodation, and new friends. Choose a mobile plan that suits your needs for calls, texts, and data.

Open a Bank Account

Opening an Australian bank account allows you to manage your finances more conveniently. You'll generally need identification documents and proof of your Australian address.

Many major banks offer accounts designed for international students.

Learn Public Transport

Most students rely on public transport to travel between home and campus.

Take some time to:

• Learn your train or bus route
• Understand transport timetables
• Obtain the appropriate travel card for your state or territory
• Plan your journey before your first day

Knowing your route in advance helps reduce first-day stress.

Explore Your Local Area

Familiarise yourself with nearby services such as:

• Supermarkets
• Pharmacies
• Medical centres
• Banks
• Restaurants
• Libraries
• Fitness centres
• Parks

Knowing where these facilities are located makes everyday life much easier.

Preparing for Study

Studying in Australia may differ from your previous educational experience.

Preparing early can help you succeed from the beginning.

Attend Orientation

Orientation provides valuable information about:

• Your course
• Student services
• Campus facilities
• Academic expectations
• Support services
• Safety information

It is also a great opportunity to meet classmates and begin building your network.

Organise Your Study Materials

Before classes begin, ensure you have:

• Notebook
• Pens
• Laptop
• Internet access
• Course timetable
• Student ID (once issued)

Being organised helps you start your studies confidently.

Improve Your Time Management

Successful students often create a weekly study schedule that balances:

• Classes
• Independent study
• Assignment preparation
• Personal time
• Exercise
• Social activities

Developing good habits early makes academic life more manageable.

Looking After Your Wellbeing

Moving overseas is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. Looking after your physical and mental wellbeing is essential.

Some helpful strategies include:

• Maintain a healthy diet
• Exercise regularly
• Get enough sleep
• Stay connected with family and friends
• Participate in campus activities
• Ask for help when needed

Remember that adjusting to a new country takes time, and it's normal to experience occasional homesickness.

Building New Friendships

Meeting new people is one of the most rewarding parts of studying abroad.

Consider:

• Joining student activities
• Participating in group assignments
• Attending community events
• Exploring Parramatta with classmates
• Practising English through conversation

Strong friendships can make your student experience even more enjoyable.

Understanding Australian Classroom Expectations

Australian education encourages active participation.

Students are generally expected to:

• Attend classes regularly
• Participate respectfully
• Complete assessments on time
• Work collaboratively
• Communicate professionally
• Ask questions when they need clarification

Being proactive helps you gain the most from your studies.

Preparing for Practical Training

If you're enrolled in a trade qualification, practical learning will form an important part of your course.

Before practical classes:

• Arrive on time
• Follow trainer instructions
• Wear any required PPE
• Follow workplace health and safety procedures
• Respect equipment and facilities
• Work cooperatively with classmates

Developing safe work habits from the beginning is essential.