What do I need to do to plan my arrival in Brisbane? .................................................................................. 2
What do I need to bring with me to Australia? ............................................................................................ 3
How do I arrange accommodation in Brisbane? What type of accommodation is available at UQ and in
Brisbane? ...................................................................................................................................................... 4
What important dates do I need to be aware of? ........................................................................................ 5
What do I need to know about Orientation Week? ..................................................................................... 6
What does UQ/BEL Faculty offer in terms of Student Support? .................................................................. 7
What Academic support programs are available for new students? ........................................................... 8
Do BEL Faculty programs provide students with Internship and work experience opportunities? ........... 10
Are there any scholarships available for International Students? .............................................................. 11
Can I change my major when I arrive at UQ and during my first semester of studies? ............................. 12
How can I meet new people whilst studying at UQ? .................................................................................. 13
Is it easy to get around in Brisbane? ........................................................................................................... 14
Can I arrange overseas health cover myself? ............................................................................................. 15
What safety and health information do I need to know? .......................................................................... 16
What are some good online resources I should be aware of when studying at UQ? ................................ 17
Who can I contact if I have a specific question not covered here? ............................................................ 18
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
Attend Pre-departure Seminar online or watch the recording - The UQ pre-departure webinar discusses issues you should be considering both prior to your arrival in Brisbane and during the first week of your arrival o ( http://www.uq.edu.au/international-students/pre-departure-webinar ).

Organise your passport, visa and plane tickets (it is recommended to book flights at least 2 weeks prior to Orientation week)

Plan your accommodation o ( http://www.uq.edu.au/student-services/accommodation )

Plan your finances, budgeting for general expenses and ongoing costs, such as: o Health cover o Temporary accommodation on arrival o Rental bond (usually equivalent to 4 weeks rent) o Rent in advance (usually equivalent to 2 weeks rent) o Connection fees and security deposit for gas, electricity, phone and internet o Basic equipment and furniture for your home o Essential books and equipment for your studies o Food, transport and other essential costs o Refer to the following link for further information: http://www.uq.edu.au/internationalstudents/living-costs
Keep in mind that your budget should be flexible enough to allow for unexpected costs such as emergencies and health expenses.

Organise your free airport pickup ( https://www.uq.edu.au/secure/accommodation/int_stud/ )

Attend a UQ pre-departure session in your country o ( http://www.uq.edu.au/international-students/events-in-your-country )

Visit the Starting at UQ website o ( http://www.uq.edu.au/startingatuq/ )

Register online for pre-semester academic preparation programs (offered at no additional cost) o Jump Start Academic Preparation Program (JSAPP)
( http://www.uq.edu.au/student-services/jsapp ) o English for Academic Communication (EAC) ( http://www.icte.uq.edu.au/eac )
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
Valid passport with current student visa (plus photocopies)

Letter of offer

Final academic transcript from home institution

Medical Records

Prescription for glasses and medication (if required)

Driver’s license

Bank account details from home country & transfer instructions
It is important that you have all these documents with you throughout your stay. Pack the most important documents in your carry-on (cabin) luggage. Put a second copy of each in your suitcase and leave a third copy at home with your family.

Clothes suitable for a sub-tropical climate – lightweight clothing is suitable for all year round.
There are two main seasons in Australia – summer (December to February) and winter (June to
August). A long-sleeved jacket and warm clothes will be necessary during the early morning and evening in winter

Essential medication

Mobile phone (same GSM as China), laptop, camera and other electronic gadgets

Contact numbers/details of people you want to stay in touch with

Adaptor (Same socket as China. The electrical current in Australia is 240/250 volts AC)
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UQ has a very comprehensive accommodation website ( http://www.uq.edu.au/studentservices/accommodation ) which provides information on different accommodation options, e.g. oncampus residential colleges, off-campus student housing and off-campus rental housing, temporary, short-term and long-term accommodation etc.
UQ St Lucia's on-campus accommodation consists of 10 privately-run residential colleges located within easy walking distance to all university facilities. Most residential colleges provide full catering for undergraduate students and either full or some self-catering options for postgraduate students.
College places are in high demand and are quite competitive. For further information regarding applications, availability and fees or if you would like to visit any of the residential colleges, please contact the college directly ( http://www.uq.edu.au/student-services/residential-colleges-st-luciatable ).
A number of private providers have developed unit complexes or houses specifically for students. In most cases you can rent a single study/bedroom in a unit, with shared the lounge room, kitchen and laundry facilities. Some complexes offer ensuite rooms and others have shared bathrooms. This accommodation is self-catering. This form of housing may be pre-booked before you leave home.
While pre-booking can ensure you a space, you will not have the opportunity to inspect the property before you agree to move in. Look over the information carefully and contact the property managers if you have any questions. Most properties only accommodate students but some may also have non-student residents. If this is important to you, you may wish to check with the provider ( http://www.uq.edu.au/student-services/long-term-accommodation-campus ).
Students also have the option of renting a room in an apartment or house. This is the most common form of student accommodation as it is generally the most cost effective and a great way to meet other students. Rental accommodation is available furnished or unfurnished and can usually be booked after students arrive in Australia. It is recommended that students inspect the rental accommodation before engaging in a tenancy agreement/lease. UQ Student Services provide student access to the UQ rentals database ( http://uqrentals.com.au/ ) which is a search engine for property listings and also provides helpful information and advice on renting in Queensland.
Students are also welcome to contact UQ Accommodation Services via email ( ss@uq.edu.au
) or phone (+ 61 (7) 3365 1704) for further advice.
UQ Accommodation Services can also arrange free airport reception (from Brisbane domestic or
International airports) for newly commencing International students, and /or temporary accommodation if required. Students must book the airport reception service at least 3 working days in advance via the Accommodation Services website ( http://www.uq.edu.au/studentservices/accommodation ).
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
19 February 2016: Last date to request a change of program

22 February 2016: Orientation Week commences

22 February 2016: Due date to enrol

29 February 2016: Semester 1 classes commence

11 March 2016: Last date for addition or substitution of Semester 1 courses

11 March 2016: Due date for payment of fees and charges

31 March 2016 : Semester 1 Census Date after which NO CHANGES (without penalties being incurred) can be made to your enrolment or to your advanced standing. You must be fully enrolled in the correct courses for your program of study by this time
For important University dates for commencing and continuing students please refer to the following website: http://www.uq.edu.au/startingatuq/important-dates or http://www.uq.edu.au/events/calendar_view.php?category_id=16&year=2016&month=&day=01
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
Orientation Week (O-Week) is a program of social and academic activities designed to introduce you to life and study at UQ

Semester 1 O-Week runs from 22 - 26 February and is the official start to University and is held during the week before classes commence

O-Week offers you social, sporting, study and support sessions and events to help you get familiar with the campus, meet people, get prepared for study, find out who’s there to help and most importantly have fun!

Attending Orientation is an important step of starting university so attendance is considered essential. Compulsory information and welcome sessions will be held by your Faculty and School. Information provided at these sessions will include an overview of your program, how to select/enrol in your classes, advice on how to plan your program and advanced standing

All students must attend a 'Getting Started' information session conducted by Student
Services . It is also recommended that students attend an Accommodation Information session, Academic Preparation programs and free English Language programs

All students must attend the ‘Safety Downunder for International Students’ session during Orientation Week

The online Orientation Planner helps you create your own plan. It will help you find the faculty or school activities relevant to your program of study, link to the location and allow you to save a copy to your calendar
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
Student Centre - Located on each UQ Campus, Student Centres are your one-stop shop for all student administration and general enquiries relating to the University http://www.uq.edu.au/student-centre/

Student Services - Student Services exists to enhance student well-being, learning outcomes, career and life goals, and provides a range of free workshops, face-to-face counselling and online self-help materials. Student Services can assist students with accessibility, accommodation, faith, making connections, careers, learning, counselling and settling in http://www.uq.edu.au/student-services/

UQ Library - UQ Library is integral to achieving world-class scholarship, and has one of the largest collections amongst academic libraries in Australia and by far the largest in
Queensland http://www.library.uq.edu.au/

IT Support - There are a range of services offered by I.T. support on campus, including free computer training classes and online interactive training in the use of various applications https://www.its.uq.edu.au/

UQ Union - UQ Union is run by students, for students. They offer a variety of services on campus including over 150 clubs and societies, free legal advice, food outlets and much more http://www.uqu.com.au/

Academic Advice - The Faculty of Business, Economics and Law (BEL) has a team of dedicated people to assist you throughout your degree with regard to planning your program and finalising your enrolment, providing advice on advanced standing and assistance with general enquiries

Employment Services - The BEL Faculty has a dedicated team of Career & Employment
Officers to help you explore your career options, connect with employers and alumni, and achieve your career goals https://careerservices-dev.business.uq.edu.au/
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
Jump Start Academic Preparation Program (JSAPP) – Strongly recommended for new international students, particularly if you have not undertaken tertiary study in Australia previously
The JSAPP creates a friendly and supportive environment to help students make the transition to a new educational institution and a new cultural setting. It offers you an ideal beginning to your studies at the University of Queensland, an opportunity to meet with other students and the chance to establish contact with staff who can help you during your degree
The JSAPP is a free, flexible program offering modules on many topics of interest to new students, including academic writing and study skills . The program includes social activities that will ensure you begin your studies with a good knowledge of your campus and some new friends
Online registration is essential ( http://www.uq.edu.au/student-services/jsapp ).

English for Academic Communication (EAC) – A UQ-funded, part-time course. It is offered each
UQ semester at no additional cost to all UQ undergraduate, postgraduate students and research higher degree candidates from non-English speaking backgrounds. Students can choose the course streams and days that suit their needs.
Online registration is essential ( http://www.icte.uq.edu.au/eac )

English in a Legal context (ELC) – A free, part-time English Language support workshop which aims to enhance the communication skills of postgraduate non-English speaking background students undertaking legal studies at UQ. It is designed to primarily improve oral and written communication skills through topics relevant to legal studies
Online registration is essential ( www.icte.uq.edu.au/eac-legal-apply )

Peer Assisted Study Sessions (PASS) – Offered for a number of Introductory Level
Undergraduate courses and provide students with a comfortable, encouraging learning environment. PASS leaders are approachable and trained to guide you through the process of studying for a University course
Attending PASS is also an excellent opportunity to mix and mingle with people from your course.
For further information please refer to the following website: http://www.science.uq.edu.au/pass/students
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
Consult with your Academic Advisor – Every student will have their own Academic Advisor in the BEL Faculty (undergraduate students) or School (postgraduate students)
Academic Advisors are available via appointment and can offer assistance with your enrolment, study plan and advanced standing

Academic Skills/learning Workshops
( http://www.uq.edu.au/student-services/learning-workshops )
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The BEL Faculty has a dedicated Employment Services Team who is responsible for connecting students and graduates with employment and professional development opportunities. Including managing internships, voluntary placements, post-study placements and coordinating networking opportunities for all students, both undergraduate and postgraduate.
BEL Employment Services offer a range of activities that will help you to develop a successful career after graduation, combine your first-class academic knowledge with valuable skills and experiences to become the graduate that every employer wants to hire.
For further information on BEL Employment Services, such as Internships, Volunteering, Graduate
Employment, Events and Networking and useful resources please refer to the following website: http://careerservices.business.uq.edu.au/ . Students are also encouraged to contact the employment Services Team online ( http://careerservices.business.uq.edu.au/contact-us ) or phone
(+61 7 3365 4222) for further advice.
UQ places strong emphasis on the future of its graduates. UQ Student Services Careers website also
( http://www.uq.edu.au/student-services/careers ) provides a wealth of resources for the students who would like to seek work opportunities. UQ CareerHub ( http://www.careerhub.uq.edu.au/ ) is a
FREE online employment service for both local and international UQ students and alumni. It connects users with leading local, national and international employers who advertise, both locally and internationally.
Institute of Continuing & TESOL Education in UQ (ICTE-UQ) in association with several industry partners and Australian Government bodies offers several professional internship programs, such as the “Go Global Graduate Career Advancement Program”
( http://www.icte.uq.edu.au/brochure/GoGlobal.pdf
) and the “Professional Year Program”
( http://www.icte.uq.edu.au/professionalyear ). These programs offer added value to the study experience and are designed to assist graduates in nominated professional industries kick start their career in Australia.
There are various career fairs and workshops in UQ and Brisbane. The UQ Careers Fair
( http://www.uq.edu.au/careersfair/index.html
) is an annual event that brings together university students and major employers from across the country and gives students the opportunity to network with prospective employers and find out additional information that will help determine what type of career students want to pursue.
For information on working while studying on a Student Visa please refer to the Department of
Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) website: http://www.immi.gov.au/students/students/working_while_studying/
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There are quite a few scholarships available to International students wanting to study at UQ.
For a comprehensive guide to scholarships please visit the UQ Scholarships website
( http://www.uq.edu.au/study/scholarships/ ).
For a list of scholarships available to international students wishing to study Business,
Economics, Law or Tourism at UQ please refer to the following website: http://www.bel.uq.edu.au/scholarships .
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Undergraduate students may be able to change their major during their first semester of studies at
UQ. However, it is strongly recommended that you seek academic advice prior to making any changes, by contacting your Academic Advisor. Your Academic Advisor will be able to assist you with your advanced standing and the development of a study plan. It is ultimately your responsibility to seek advice and make sure that you complete the requirements of your program in order to graduate on time – Visa extensions will only be granted in very exceptional circumstance and the
Faculty will not be held responsible if you have not completed the requirements of your program on time.
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
Join a club (UQ Union Clubs & Societies - http://www.uqu.com.au/clubs-societies )

Play a sport (UQ Sport - http://www.uqsport.com.au/ )

Join Mates@UQ ( http://www.uq.edu.au/student-services/mates-uq ) including Chat
Mates, Language Exchange Mates, Dinner Mates, Family Mates or Mature Mates

Meet your neighbours

Chat to fellow students
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Brisbane has very advanced and comprehensive road and public transportation systems, which include car, train, ferry, bus or bicycle. Getting around South East Queensland using public transport is quite easy and the public trains, ferries and buses in Brisbane are extensively integrated.
TransLink ( http://translink.com.au/ ) provides information on the public transport network covering
South East Queensland. Just one TransLink electronic ticket (Go Card) will take you wherever you want to go on buses, trains and ferries within the system, no matter which combination of modes you use to reach your destination. The fare of public transportation is calculated according to the number of zones you travel in one journey - the more zones you cover for your trip, the more expensive the fare will be. The TransLink website contains information on timetables, maps and destinations, plus everything you need to know about catching a bus, train and ferry.
Full-time students in Queensland are entitled to a concession fare. The students must hold a current and valid student ID card marked 'full-time' and with the QR logo to gain the concession fare. A student ID Card can be obtained one working day after you enrol in your courses. Please refer to http://www.uq.edu.au/myadvisor/id-cards for further information on student ID Cards.
UQ St Lucia campus can be accessed by regular bus and Citycat (river ferry) services - There is a ferry terminal and two bus stations (Chancellors’ Place and UQ Lakes) on Campus. However, there is no train station within walking distance to the campus. The closest train station is located at Toowong, with regular bus services connecting to UQ (routes 402, 411 and 412). It is also quite common for students to travel to the university by bicycle.
TransLink also runs a City Loop bus service that circles Brisbane's Central Business District and stops at several destinations including Central Station, Queen Street Mall, City Botanic Gardens, Riverside,
QUT and King George Square. For timetable information on this free Loop service, please visit the
TransLink website: http://jp.translink.com.au/travel-information/network-information/timetables .
You can use the Translink website ( http://translink.com.au/ ) to plan your trip and find how to reach your destination via public transportation. The online e-map website ( http://www.whereis.com
) is another useful resource to locate a destination.
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It is a condition of your student visa that you maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your studies in Australia. On your behalf, the University of Queensland can organise program-length cover with OSHC Worldcare (UQ’s preferred OSHC provider). However, you may make your own OSHC arrangements for the duration of your studies at UQ. For more information on
OSHC, please refer to UQ website: http://www.uq.edu.au/international-students/get-health-cover .
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You should be aware of the following important telephone numbers during your study and stay in
Brisbane:
On campus:
 All emergencies (including health related) call 3365 3333 (53333 from internal phone)
 General Security (e.g. UniSafe Escorts, information): 3365 1234, or 1800 800 123 (free call)
 University Health Service: 3365 6210
Off campus:
 All emergencies, call 000 for Fire, Police or Ambulance services
 Get the contact phone number of your local police station
You’re required to attend the safety and health related seminars during Orientation Week, e.g.
Getting Started For All New International Students Seminar and Safety Down Under for International
Students Seminar
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• First Year Students: www.bel.uq.edu.au/first-year-students
• Current Students: www.bel.uq.edu.au/current-students
• All Students: o my.UQ: https://student.my.uq.edu.au/ o Advice, support and forms www.uq.edu.au/myadvisor/ o Starting at UQ: http://www.uq.edu.au/startingatuq/ o Program planning toolkit: www.bel.uq.edu.au/program-plans o UQ Answers: www.uq.edu.au/uqanswers o Information Technology Services: https://www.its.uq.edu.au/?page=24108 o Student Centre: http://www.uq.edu.au/student-centre/ o UQ Library: http://www.library.uq.edu.au/ o UQ Bookshop: http://www.coop-bookshop.com.au/bookshop o UQ Health Service: http://www.uq.edu.au/healthservice/ o Academic Calendar: http://www.uq.edu.au/events/calendar_view.php?category_id=16
• Past exam papers – excellent study resource: https://www.library.uq.edu.au/
• UQ Business School Assignment Writing Guide: https://www.business.uq.edu.au/sites/default/files/brochures/assign-uqbs-student-writingguide.pdf
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Students can contact an Academic Advisor at the BEL Faculty at any time for program advice, to make an appointment or to be directed to School staff for assistance ( international@bel.uq.edu.au
).
Alternatively, the UQ Answers website ( http://www.uq.edu.au/uqanswers/ ) is good resource where you can search frequently asked information or ask a specific question.
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