Table of Contents
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
CRICOS #00025B
E: international@bel.uq.edu.au
www.uq.edu.au
Current at August 2014
1
What do I need to do to plan my arrival in Brisbane?

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)
CRICOS #00025B
E: international@bel.uq.edu.au
www.uq.edu.au
Current at August 2014
2
What do I need to bring with me to Australia?
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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.
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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)
CRICOS #00025B
E: international@bel.uq.edu.au
www.uq.edu.au
Current at August 2014
3
How do I arrange accommodation in Brisbane? What type of accommodation is available at
UQ and in Brisbane?
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).
CRICOS #00025B
E: international@bel.uq.edu.au
www.uq.edu.au
Current at August 2014
4
What important dates do I need to be aware of?

20 February 2015: Last date to request a change of program

23 February 2015: Orientation Week commences

27 February 2015: Due date to enrol

02 March 2015: Semester 1 classes commence

13 March 2015: Last date for addition or substitution of Semester 1 courses

13 March 2015: Due date for payment of fees and charges

31 March 2015: Semester 1 Census Date after which NO CHANGES (without penalties being
incurred) can be made to your enrolment or to your credit. 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=2014&month=&day=01
CRICOS #00025B
E: international@bel.uq.edu.au
www.uq.edu.au
Current at August 2014
5
What do I need to know about Orientation Week?
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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 February 23 - 27 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 credit
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
CRICOS #00025B
E: international@bel.uq.edu.au
www.uq.edu.au
Current at August 2014
6
What does UQ/BEL Faculty offer in terms of Student Support?
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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 credit 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/
CRICOS #00025B
E: international@bel.uq.edu.au
www.uq.edu.au
Current at August 2014
7
What Academic support programs are available for new students?

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
CRICOS #00025B
E: international@bel.uq.edu.au
www.uq.edu.au
Current at August 2014
8
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

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 credit

Academic Skills/learning Workshops
(http://www.uq.edu.au/student-services/learning-workshops)
CRICOS #00025B
E: international@bel.uq.edu.au
www.uq.edu.au
Current at August 2014
9
Do BEL Faculty programs provide students with Internship and work experience
opportunities?
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/
CRICOS #00025B
E: international@bel.uq.edu.au
www.uq.edu.au
Current at August 2014
10
Are there any scholarships available for International Students?
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.
CRICOS #00025B
E: international@bel.uq.edu.au
www.uq.edu.au
Current at August 2014
11
Can I change my major when I arrive at UQ and during my first semester of studies?
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 credit 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.
CRICOS #00025B
E: international@bel.uq.edu.au
www.uq.edu.au
Current at August 2014
12
How can I meet new people whilst studying at UQ?
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Join a club (UQ Union Clubs & Societies - http://www.uqu.uq.edu.au/#clubs-andsocieties)
Play a sport (UQ Sport - http://www.uqsport.com.au/)
Join Mates@UQ (http://www.uq.edu.au/student-services/mates-uq) or Chat Mates
(http://www.uq.edu.au/student-services/chat-mates)
Meet your neighbours
Chat to fellow students
CRICOS #00025B
E: international@bel.uq.edu.au
www.uq.edu.au
Current at August 2014
13
Is it easy to get around in Brisbane?
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://www.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://www.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.
CRICOS #00025B
E: international@bel.uq.edu.au
www.uq.edu.au
Current at August 2014
14
Can I arrange overseas health cover myself?
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.
CRICOS #00025B
E: international@bel.uq.edu.au
www.uq.edu.au
Current at August 2014
15
What safety and health information do I need to know?
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
Other safety and health information is available on the UQ website:
http://www.uq.edu.au/international-guide/health-and-safety. You’re also 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
CRICOS #00025B
E: international@bel.uq.edu.au
www.uq.edu.au
Current at August 2014
16
What are some good online resources I should be aware of when studying at UQ?
•
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 Enrolment guide: www.uq.edu.au/enrolment/
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
•
CRICOS #00025B
E: international@bel.uq.edu.au
www.uq.edu.au
Current at August 2014
17
Who can I contact if I have a specific question not covered here?
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.
CRICOS #00025B
E: international@bel.uq.edu.au
www.uq.edu.au
Current at August 2014
18