Pre Departure Checklist: Prepare Your Travel To Australia

 

Settling abroad for your study? Well, Australia has been one of the top destinations for students across the globe. Coming here for your studies means getting a top-class education from a globally recognised institution. Before you set foot in Australia, it’s essential to prepare thoroughly.

 

Some basic checklists are your documents, including visa, health insurance, and more to start your study in Australia. Moreover, it is crucial to understand the Australian student visa requirements to have an easy process and start your academic journey here. In this blog, we will discuss the checklist for international students studying in Australia and detail all the information you need to know to get started with your academic journey here.

 

 

Preparing For Your Journey

 

The first thing you should consider when preparing for your journey is creating a checklist and a plan. It is the key to have a smooth journey. Further, preparing a checklist includes booking your flight and accommodation, opening a bank account and health insurance. Together, meeting all visa requirements to study in Australia. Let's discuss in brief:

 

1. Student visa: It is crucial to have a valid student visa if you want to study here. In particular, all the student visas come under subclass 500. Understand the Australian student visa requirements to have an easy and smooth visa process to start your journey. Further, you can check the latest cost of a student visa in Australia by directly visiting the Department of Home Affairs website. Here are some documents you may require to get your student visa:

 

• Confirmation Of Enrolment (COE)

 

• Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE)

 

• English Proficiency

 

• Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)

 

• Financial Capacity

 

2. Confirmation Of Enrolment: Make sure to make a copy of your COE, which you received from the university to apply for. You may be required to show it when you reach the airport. It shows that you are legally enrolled on the program and can start your academic journey here. Therefore, make sure to carry a copy of your Confirmation of Enrolment.

 

3. Overseas Student Health Cover: If you want to study in Australia, you will be required to have health insurance. In fact, it is one of the Australian student visa requirements. This health insurance covers all your healthcare expenses during your stay in Australia for your study. In particular, there are several providers who supply OSHC however, it is essential to compare them and choose one based on reviews, services and price.

 

4. Acceptance Letter: When starting your journey, you might be asked to show your acceptance letter also called the offer letter provided by the university you applied for. An acceptance letter means that you have accepted the offer and paid the required course fee to start your academic journey here.

 

5. Flights: Well, you will be taking a flight for your journey, so make sure to book your flight in advance. It will give you plenty of time to shift here before your course starts. Also, check every detail when booking your flight, including date, time, seat, and more. More importantly, only book your flight once you get your student visa.

 

6. Finances: Starting your journey to Australia will require you to have strong finances. It includes your processing fee for the visa application, academics, booking a flight, renting accommodation and more. Moreover, it is recommended that you carry some Australian currency with you when you land in Australia. Furthermore, there are many exchange counters in most international airports and cities.

 

7. Accommodation: When settling in Australia, you will need to rent an accommodation. In fact, you must rent accommodation before your arrival. Here, you will have a variety of accommodations such as On-campus, homestays, private rentals, and more. However, it is crucial to choose one that suits your budget and preferences.

 

8. Packing and Luggage: When packing for your journey, consider the country's diverse climate. Determine whether you need clothes for hot or cold weather. Also, check your airline’s luggage allowance in advance; some offer cheaper rates for purchasing additional baggage online rather than paying fees at the airport check-in counter.

 

9. Opening a Bank Account: Upon arrival, prioritise opening a bank account to manage your finances effectively. Research banks that offer services tailored to international students and gather necessary identification and visa documentation for account opening.

 

10. Documents: Make sure you carry all the documents with you when starting your journey. You may provide some of your documents when arriving at the airport such as:

 

• Valid passport with Australian student visa

 

• Letter of offer from your Australian institution, Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), airport pickup confirmation, and accommodation details

 

• Receipts for tuition fees, health coverage, and other payments

 

• Attested mark sheets, certificates, and work experience letters

 

• Birth certificate, credit card, and ten passport-size photographs

 

• International driver’s license (if applicable)

 

• Telephone numbers and addresses in India and Australia

 

• Prescriptions for any necessary medications

 

• Health insurance details

 

 

Resources and Support for international students

 

Australia offers a wide range of resources and support services to ensure that international students have a smooth and enriching academic experience. Let's explore this in detail:

 

1. Academic Support: Australia offers extensive academic support, including advisors for course planning, peer tutoring, and writing centres. Therefore, studying here means you will have a bunch of academic support and help you excel in your academics.

 

2. Health Services: Here, you will have amazing health services, including on-campus clinics for medical consultations, counselling for mental health, and health promotion programs. You can access specialists and 24/7 emergency services for immediate assistance.

 

3. Employment Support: The Australian Education System allow students to do part-time work alongside their academics. That supports them financially and allows them to manage their expenses. Therefore, you will be working in Australia on a student visa and supporting yourself financially.

 

4. Cultural Integration Program: These programs will help you adapt to the new environment through orientation sessions on Australian culture, English language support, and cross-cultural training. Social events and student societies encourage intercultural exchange and provide a sense of community and belonging.

 

5. Emergency assistance: Emergency assistance services ensure international students' safety and well-being with 24/7 emergency contact numbers for medical and security issues. Crisis management support and on-campus security services provide prompt help during emergencies, while regular updates on safety protocols keep students informed and prepared.

 

 

Additional Tips For International Students

 

(i) Stay Informed: Regularly check your email and university portals for updates and important information. So that you can stay updated with every piece of information.

 

(ii) Budget Wisely: You must spend your money wisely. For that, you can create a budget to manage your finances and track your expenses to avoid financial stress.

 

(iii) Explore Local Culture: Engage with local communities and participate in cultural events to enhance your experience. The country has a very rich culture that you should explore and experience.

 

(iv) Be Proactive: Never hesitate to seek help when needed. Whether it is academic, emotional, or logistical, seeking help will get you support from others.

 

(v) Network: Build connections with fellow students, professors, and professionals to create a support system and opportunities. This will help you with your professional career.

 

 

Conclusion

 

Preparing for your journey to Australia requires careful planning, especially regarding the visa requirements to study in Australia. By following this checklist and using available resources, you can smoothly transition and fully enjoy your educational experience in this lively country. Make sure to gather all necessary documents and understand the visa process well in advance to avoid any last-minute complications.

 

Read More

1. Visa Requirements and Application Process for Studying in Australia

2. Cost of living in Australia: If planning to Accommodate

3. Affordable Accommodation Options in Australia