Arrival checklist

Checklist time

Studying abroad for the first time can be overwhelming especially if you are used to living with your family, and having things taken care of by your parents or guardian. Don’t worry, MABECS Global education advisors have curated another checklist for you before and after you arrive in Australia. We hope that this will reduce your anxiety as you leave home for a new start!

Before going to Australia

Besides the necessary steps after your degree application, such as applying for student visa and applying for the police certificate of good conduct, here are a few important tasks you should complete before going to Australia:

  1. Make sure you already have medical and travel insurance for Australia that covers your time studying in, and travelling to and from Australia. If you need further information, speak to a MABECS Global education advisor.
  2. You should arrange accommodation before you arrive in Australia, even if it is just for the first few days. Have your accommodation address written in English ready to show the taxi or hire car, or detailed directions if you are using public transport. If your institution is picking you up from the airport they will take you exactly where you need to go.1
  3. Not sure what to pack? Here are two of our favourite packing lists. To find out what to expect when arriving at the Australia border, read this page from the Australian Border Force.

  1. Australia has very strict immigration laws, and there are some items that you may be surprised are prohibited for entry, such as fresh fruits and homemade food. Some food items are allowed if declared on the Incoming Passenger Card on your flight to Australia. Check this list so that you won’t get into trouble at the border.
  2. Make sure you have already packed your important documents before leaving for the airport: air tickets, passport, student visa copy, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) policy, offer letter and Confirmation of Enrolment in your university, driver’s licence, money, receipts of payments (e.g. tuition fees, OSHC, bank statements etc.), credit cards, copies of your birth certificate and any necessary academic records.2
  3. Remember to put all important documents in your hand luggage. It is wise to keep a photocopy of your birth certificate and passport in your checked luggage and leave a copy with a family member or friend back home just in case your luggage is missing (it can happen!).2
  4. Note down the contact details for the International Student Support Staff at your campus.

After arriving in Australia

  1. Declare everything upon arrival: It is a good practice to declare all your edible items so that you don’t get caught for carrying anything illegal and made to pay thousands of dollars. Remember to always carry a medical prescription for your medicines. Read more on Arriving in Australia at the Study in Australia website.
  2. After checking into your accommodation, do some grocery shopping to start a good practice of living on budget. Ideally, do some research before arriving to know the nearby grocery stores.
  3. Prepare yourself for classes and mingle with new friends!

Further reading

Make sure to bookmark the websites below if you’re applying to pursue a degree in Australia2:

  1. https://insiderguides.com.au/ — “Insider Guides produces best-practice guides to ensure international students are prepared, welcomed, connected and supported in Australia.
  2. https://www.studyinaustralia.gov.au/ — “Everything you need to know to make the most of Australia’s world-class student experience” a site by the Australian government

Have more questions about studying inAustralia?

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Call us at at +6 03-79567655 / +6 010-3140992
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