This is your UWA College Pre-Start Guide
Are you as excited as we are!?
Moving to a new country to study is a huge task but we're here to support you every step of the way. Below you'll find resources and everything you need to know to help you best prepare for your upcoming studies.
MANDATORY TASKS TO COMPLETE
These tasks are mandatory for you to complete for a smooth transition to UWA College. Be sure to complete these before Orientation Week.
HOW TO PREPARE FOR PERTH
Watch this video and refer to our Pre-Start Checklist below to prepare and to ensure you've taken all the steps to prepare for your arrival in Perth.
MEDICATION AND MEDICAL DEVICES
- Medicine for personal use must be declared when you arrive at the airport. If you have a condition that requires ongoing medical care, it is important you bring all relevant prescriptions and a doctor's letter outlining your condition and any medicine/devices you are bringing.
- Please note, you can only bring up to 3-months supply of a medication with you and it must be kept in the original packaging. Read the regulations about bringing medicines and medical devices into Australia here.
- You may also like to review your Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) policy in relation to your medical circumstances to ensure any pre-existing medical conditions will be covered in your health policy.
- To help us to best support you, it is important that you disclose any pre-existing medical conditions that require ongoing treatment with our team so an appropriate care plan can be put in place. Please provide this information when completing our Commencement Form.
ARRIVING IN PERTH
When you land in Perth, you will need to go through immigration and customs. Australia has very strict rules for what you can and cannot bring into the country, and what you need to declare on your arrivals card. For a full list of items, please click here.
Once you exit the customs area, you will find various facilities, including currency exchange counters, ATMs and public transportation options. Designated meeting points are clearly marked here.
TRANSPORT FROM THE AIRPORT
There are a number of transport options available from the airport. The Perth Airport train line operates every 12 minutes and will take you directly to the city. There are also several bus services, including the City Shuttle bus service, which stops outside each Perth Airport terminal. Additionally, taxis and rideshare options are available. Taxi ranks are located at the front of all terminals, and rideshare pick up zones are marked clearly.
UWA also provides a free, one-time airport transfer for all new international students. UWA’s partner, Elegant Charters, will meet you at Perth International Airport and ensure you arrive safely at your accommodation and have a smooth, stress-free arrival experience in Perth.
To book and learn more, complete the online booking form on the UWA Airport Transfer Service page. Please note that:
- Each student must complete a separate booking form individually.
- You must submit your booking at least 3 days prior to arrival to confirm the service.
- Once you have submitted the required information and documents, your booking will either be confirmed or additional information may be requested. A copy of the booking will then be sent to the email address provided in the booking form.
- It is recommended that you arrive a few days before UWA College’s Orientation Week so you have time to settle in before you explore Perth and our campus.
SETTING UP YOUR PHONE
You’ll need an Australian phone number whilst you’re living in Perth. There are a number of different mobile phone plans to suit your lifestyle. The providers that are most popular are: Telstra, Optus and Vodafone. You can purchase and activate an Australian SIM card once you are in Australia, prior to Orientation Week.
SETTING UP YOUR BANK ACCOUNT
You will also need to set up an Australian bank account whilst you’re living here. Otherwise, you will pay a lot in international transaction fees!
There are a number of banks to choose from in Australia, such as ANZ, Commonwealth, NAB and Westpac. During Orientation Week, we will also bring students to the city to help them open up a bank account in person.
It's okay to feel sad, anxious and uncertain when leaving home, but give yourself time to process; there is no quick fix.
Here are our top tips for preparing to leave home:
- Take time to say goodbye to the places, not just the people
- Eat lots of your favourite food before leaving home
- Bring something from home with you to keep in your new room
Don't underestimate the importance of saying goodbye. By saying goodbye, you allow yourself the freedom to walk towards your new goals at UWA College.
We're always here to answer any questions you might have. If you need any assistance, please get in touch with our friendly team by clicking the button below or emailing us at uwacollege@uwa.edu.au
