Checklist for Indian Students Aspiring to Study In Australia

Heading to Australia soon? Awesome!
It’s going to be a whole new adventure, and you’re probably super excited getting ready for it.
Getting your shopping done, sorting out legal stuff, and keeping everything organised might seem tough, but it’s all going to pay off.
Here’s a checklist to make sure you’re all set to hop on the plane without forgetting anything important.

Pre-Depature Checklist

Essential Documents To be Packed:

Before you even think about packing anything, ensure you have all the essential documents. These are important for entering and succeeding in Australia:

Passport & Visa: Double-check that your passport is valid for at least six months after your arrival and has enough blank pages for those visa stamps. Speaking of visas, make sure you’ve applied for and received your student visa – it’s your official permission to study in Australia.
Offer Letter & Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE): This proves you’re officially enrolled at your university. Keep it safe and accessible, as you might need it for various things.
Airport Pickup Confirmation: Did your university offer an airport pickup service? If so, keep the details handy so you know who’s waiting to welcome you with a warm Aussie smile. Don’t worry if you haven’t arranged this – public transport options like trains, buses, and taxis are readily available at most airports.
Payment Receipts: Proof of tuition fees, health insurance, and any other payments you’ve made can be helpful for tracking your expenses or if you have questions about your enrollment.
Transcripts, Certificates, & Work Experience Letters: Showcase your academic journey and skills. These might be useful for opening bank accounts, applying for scholarships, or even finding part-time work.
Birth Certificate, Credit Card, Passport Photos: You might need these for various things, like opening a bank account or getting an ID card. It’s good to have extras just in case.
Phone Numbers & Addresses: Stay connected with family back home and your new Australian contacts. Write down important phone numbers and addresses in a notebook or save them on your phone.
Medication Prescriptions: If you need specific medication, pack your prescriptions and ensure they’re clearly labelled. Remember, some medications might require special permits to be brought into Australia, so check beforehand.

What To Pack In Your Luggage?

Airlines usually allow 20 kg for check-in luggage, so pack efficiently. Remember:

Label Clearly: Write your name, contact details, and uni address on your bags – both inside and outside. Lost luggage won’t stay lost for long if someone can easily identify it!
Electrical Appliances: Australia uses the same voltage (240V), but the plugs are different. Pack a universal travel adapter to keep your phone, laptop, and other gadgets charged up. Don’t forget to check if your appliances are compatible with the voltage before using them.
Cash: Having around AUD 1,000 in cash for the first few days is helpful, but remember you can also use ATMs and credit cards in most places. Check with your bank about international transaction fees and withdrawal limits.
Clothing: Research the average temperatures of your city in Australia so you know whether to pack warm clothes, light clothes, or a mix of both. Don’t forget comfortable shoes for walking around campus and exploring your new surroundings.
Essentials: Pack toiletries, a first-aid kit, a reusable water bottle, and any other essentials you might need for the journey and your first few days. Remember, some items like aerosols and liquids might have restrictions, so check airline
guidelines.

Post Departure Checklist

Customs & Arrival – How to Handle It After Landing In Australia?

When you arrive, you’ll go through immigration and customs. Don’t worry, it’s usually pretty straightforward. Just remember:

Declare It: If you’re carrying any food items or things on the “no-no” list (like fruits, plants, or certain medications), declare them on the Customs Declaration Form. Green channel if you have nothing to declare, red channel if you do. Be honest and truthful – it saves time and avoids potential fines.
Airport Pickup: Look for your university representative holding a sign with your name (or the university logo). They’ll take you away to your temporary accommodation, so you can relax and recover from your journey. If you haven’t arranged airport pickup, don’t panic! Public transport options like trains, buses, and taxis are readily available at most airports.

Calling Home

Let your family know you’ve landed safely – they’ll be super relieved to hear your voice! Most airports have Wi-Fi or internet cafes where you can make calls or send messages. You can also consider purchasing a local SIM card at the airport for easier communication afterward. Remember, international roaming charges can be expensive, so check with your home network provider beforehand.

Staying Connected: Download essential apps like WhatsApp, Viber, or Skype to stay connected with loved ones back home. Explore free Wi-Fi options at your university, libraries, and cafes. Remember, responsible data usage is key to managing your budget.

Orientation Session

Attending your university orientation session is crucial! Here’s why:

Essential Information: You’ll learn about academic expectations, course schedules, support services, student clubs, and important dates. Don’t miss this opportunity to get acquainted with your new academic environment.
Connect with Others: Meet fellow students, both domestic and international, and start building your Aussie support network. Ask questions, share experiences, and make friends who can guide you through your university journey.
Get Organised: Pick up essential resources like student ID cards, library cards, and public transport passes. Familiarise yourself with the campus layout and key facilities.

Health & Wellbeing

Health Insurance: Collect your Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) receipt to activate your health insurance. Now you’re covered for any medical mishaps, from doctor visits to hospital stays. Remember, having OSHC is mandatory for your student visa, so make sure it’s active from the day you arrive.
Adjusting to a New Climate: Australia has diverse climates depending on your city. Be prepared for changes in temperature and weather patterns. Pack accordingly and don’t hesitate to layer up or down as needed.
Mental Wellbeing: Moving to a new country can be challenging. Remember to prioritise your mental health. Seek support from university counselling services, connect with international student groups, and maintain healthy habits like exercising and eating well.

How To Balance Studies And Earn In Australia?

Your student visa allows you to work part-time while studying.

This can be a great way to earn some extra cash, gain valuable experience, and build your professional network.

But Remember:

Work Permit: You need to apply for a separate work permit that allows you to work up to 20 hours per week during semesters and full-time during breaks. It costs AUD 50, so factor that in. Apply online through the Australian Government’s website before you arrive in Australia.
Tax File Number (TFN): You’ll need this to work legally and pay taxes. Apply online before you start your job. It’s free and easy to do, and you can use your TFN for other things like opening a bank account.

Banking & Currency – How To Handle?

Australia is moving towards a cashless society, so while having some cash handy is helpful, most places accept cards:

Exchange Currency: Convert some rupees to Australian dollars (AUD) before you leave. Airports and major cities have exchange counters, but you can usually get better rates online or through your bank.
Open a Bank Account: This makes managing your finances easier and lets you receive transfers directly. Ask your uni about student bank accounts with special offers and features like international debit cards. Opening an account online before you arrive can save you time and hassle.
ATMs & Cards: ATMs are widely available in cities and towns, and most businesses accept credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, etc.). However, be aware of potential international transaction fees and withdrawal limits set by your bank.

Adjusting to Australia Life

Living in a new country comes with its own set of challenges and adjustments. Here are some tips to help you settle in smoothly:

Culture Shock: It’s totally normal to feel a bit out of place at first. It’s a new experience, so be patient with yourself, and don’t hesitate to ask for help when you need it. Learn Australian culture by trying out different foods, attending local events, and making friends with Aussies.
Communication: Australians are pretty friendly and straightforward in their talk. Don’t be thrown off if they throw some slang your way or speak casually. If you’re unsure about something, just ask! And remember, it’s okay to speak up and share your thoughts.
Getting Around: Public transport in Australian cities is pretty awesome. Trains, buses, and trams are efficient and not too pricey. Get yourself a travel card or download a handy app to make your commute easier.
Finding a Place to Stay: If you’re studying at a university, they often have housing options for international students. But if you’re looking for your spot, do some research on different neighbourhoods. You must consider your budget and what kind of place you’d like to live in.
Managing Expenses: Now, Australia’s cost of living might be a bit higher than what you’re used to back home. So, it’s essential to budget wisely. Look for ways to save, like cooking your meals instead of eating out or using public transport instead of taxis.

How To Thrive Academic Success?

Studying in Australia will require you to adapt to a different learning style. Here’s how to achieve academic success:

Active Participation: Australian universities love it when students get involved. Don’t be shy—speak up in class, share your thoughts, and work on group projects. Active participation is key!
Independent Learning: Take charge of your studies. Stay on top of your readings, attend all your lectures and tutorials, and don’t hesitate to reach out to your teachers if you need help. It’s all about taking ownership of your learning journey.
Time Management: Balancing studies, maybe a part-time job, and having a social life can be a juggle. That’s where good time management comes in. Make a study schedule, set achievable goals, and avoid leaving things to the last minute. Remember, being organised and proactive is the secret sauce to success!

How To Adopt To Australian Culture?

Studying abroad in Australia is an excellent opportunity for personal and academic growth. You need to adapt to the adventure, be open to new experiences, and make the most of your time in Australia. Here are some additional tips:

Travel & Explore: : Australia is like a treasure trove of wonders waiting to be discovered. Take time to travel and explore its diverse landscapes, buzzing cities, and breathtaking natural beauty. Whether it’s weekend getaways or longer breaks, immerse yourself in the local culture and create unforgettable memories.
Join Clubs & Societies: Joining clubs and societies related to your interests or cultural background is a fantastic way to meet new people and make friends. It’s also a great opportunity to build a support network and enrich your university experience.
Stay Connected: While you’re off on your Aussie adventure, don’t forget to stay connected with loved ones back home. Video calls, messaging apps, and social media can help bridge the distance. But also, try to connect with people in Australia and forge new friendships. Building connections both near and far will make your journey even more fulfilling.
Respect & Courtesy: As you embrace Australian learning, remember to be respectful of local customs and traditions. Politeness and courtesy go a long way in fostering positive interactions. By showing respect for the culture and people around you, you’ll integrate smoothly into the community and have a truly enriching experience.

CONCLUSION:

The above checklist is just going to be a starting point in your academic journey in Australia. Also don’t hesitate to ask questions and also seek help from your university.

One thing you’ll experience in your journey in Australia will be learning, growth, and the discovery of a vibrant and welcoming Australian community. Safe travels!