After you successfully enrol with Charles Sturt University Sydney - and before you travel - here are seven things you can start doing now to get organised for a smooth transition to your new study home Down Under.
1. Research Sydney
Research Sydney and its surrounds to get to know your new study home. A great way to do this is to learn about Australian slang. For example, Australia is known by a lot of different names: Aussie, Ozzie, Straya, or just simply, Oz. If you are not from an English speaking background, learning some of the local Australian sayings and terminology will be a big help.
Sydney
Guide to Sydney
Lonely Planet - Sydney
2. Apply for a student visa
Apply for your student visa. The Australian government has simplified student visa applications - all academic fields of interest fall under the same category, Student visa (Subclass 500). To find out about student visa requirements in Australia, visit the Department of Home Affairs.
3. Look at your accommodation options
Take a look at accommodation options. Whether you choose to live near the campus or elsewhere, we are here to help make sure you find your new home away from home.
4. Talk to an International student officer
Connect with your International Student Officer. They can help you with everything from adjusting to life in Sydney, managing your studies, and connecting with other students.
5. Organise flights
Organise your flights to Sydney once your visa is granted. It is a good idea to arrive a few days early to give you enough time to recover from your flight, settle in and explore your surrounds before Orientation begins.
6. Start packing
Start packing. Sydney has annual average temperatures between 18°C and 26°C, so it is a good idea to pack a range of clothing. Take a look at Australia's biosecurity requirements when packing personal items. Some food, plant material, and animal products from overseas are not permitted.
7. Book into orientation
Book into orientation. Orientation is compulsory. It is also a great way to settle into life at uni and get to know your new Charles Sturt family. Once you get to Sydney, Orientation is a great way to connect with your new classmates and teaching staff. These connections will help you get the most out of your time in Oz (see the first item in this list if you're not sure what that means).