Start your study-in-Australia countdown right

How to start your study-in-Australia countdown on the right foot

Moving to the other side of the planet can be stressful. You’re about to embark on one of the most exciting journeys of your life, and if you let stress get the better of you, it can lead to unnecessary anxiety and forgotten tasks.

Now is the time to be confident and excited, and the best way to be that way is to know you’re prepared. Ease your mind by tackling the countdown as systematically as possible. Let’s go through a list of the things you should be considering before your departure!

Documents
Print out all your offer documents, proof of enrollment, etc. Consider printing copies of your resume, references from previous landlords, banking statements, copies of your driver’s licence, etc. as these will be required for your accommodation search, and possibly when you land in Australia. Make a list of all the documents you will need, make several copies (as required), and organise it all in a folder that you will put in your carry-on.

Cell phone
Unlock your phone while still in Canada and use someone else’s card in your phone to test it out.

Travel itinerary
Keep an eye on your flights as they could change and not notify you. Find out how early you need to be at the airport.

Money
Have you got your Australian bank account set up? If not, now is the time to get that organized. Most banks allow you to open an account from Canada, up to three months before you arrive. You’ll need access to money/cheques etc. when you’re searching for accommodation (if you’re going to be living in a private rental), and many real estate agents/landlords will not take cash.

Location, location, location
Where are you headed? We have three words: Google Street View! It’s a good idea to look at your campus and city maps. Check out the transit schedule and snoop around your university’s website; they have an “international” section with lots of helpful tips!

Pack
Organize your carry-on (documents folder!).

You may not need to start packing now, but at least consider the main items. Consider what type of clothing you’ll need. Summer only? Winter? Believe it or not, some Australian cities (hello, Melbourne!) can get quite chilly during their winter months—June, July and August. It’s a good idea to take your fall items at minimum. Even Sydney, Gold Coast, and Brisbane have cold nights in winter. Start your packing list and get tips from YouTube regarding the best way to pack—you’ll get a lot of ideas! It’s also a good idea to include a backpack/duffel for when you travel in Australia.

*

Hopefully this list will help you feel more settled and relaxed during this predeparture phase! If you have concerns, please reach out to your OzTREKK Admissions Officer! Do you have any pre-departure tips? Send them our way: info@oztrekk.com.