Be sure to make the necessary pre-departure arrangements before you arrive in Australia.
On-arrival reception
If you have made prior arrangements, the institution in which you have enrolled will send someone to meet you at the airport and take you to your accommodation. It is wise to make this arrangement with your institution as you may be unfamiliar with transport and Australian money when you first arrive. You will be told how to get to the institution on the day of your orientation.
Orientation
You will receive orientation at your institution by the international officer. They will introduce you to the institution's rules and regulations and help you decide on your timetable.
Assistance with accommodation
If you haven't arranged your accommodation before you depart, the institution may be able to help you to find suitable rental accommodation or a Homestay family. You could also check campus noticeboards for other students looking for people to share units or houses. Local newspapers run ads for accommodation vacant, particularly in Saturday and mid-week editions. All students under 18 years of age must have their accommodation approved by their institution.
It is an Australian Government requirement that students notify their education institution of their address in Australia within seven days of arrival, and notify their education institution of any change of address within seven days.
When you arrive
Welcome to Australia! Your studies will be challenging and rewarding. And there is plenty to do in your spare time to get to know Australia and Australians!
Can I change my course or institution?
You must stay with the institution for 12 months (or for the duration of the course if it is for less than 12 months). You can change your course but before you do so you must apply to DIAC to change education provider. There is an application charge of A$135 (as at November 2003) except when a student changes courses because the institution is unable to continue providing the course.
Friendly reminder
It is important to comply with Australian student visa conditions for the duration of your stay. Under Government legislation students who break their visa conditions will face mandatory visa cancellation.
During your studies, you can leave Australia and re-enter if you hold a valid visa. Otherwise you will need to reapply, pay the charge and meet the current visa requirements.
Your student visa is not valid for permanent residence in Australia or for residence after you have completed your studies. If you wish to migrate to Australia you should contact DIAC to find out the migration requirements. You are obliged to leave Australia at the end of your studies.