International student checklist

The International Student Orientation provides you with resources and advice on your educational experience in Australia and what to expect as a student at UNSW. Don’t forget to register for the International Student Welcome during O-Week!

Undergraduate and Postgraduate coursework students – make sure you also register for your Faculty Welcome events

Higher Degree Research (HDR) candidates - the Graduate Research School (GRS) will send you information regarding the Higher Degree Research Welcome and Orientation which includes all the information you need to kickstart your research candidature.

Kickstart your journey with our dedicated page for 'Your Arrival in Australia'. It’s got all the information you need to help make your arrival in Australia smooth and stress-free.

Daily expenses
Every city has its unique vibe and costs. Plan your budget to cover daily expenses without any surprises. 

Accommodation 
Explore our on-campus and off-campus accommodation options to find the perfect spot in Sydney. 

Transport 

• To and from Sydney airport: UNSW's free shuttle service offers transport from Sydney airport to your accommodation. UNSW's free shuttle service. Check out other transport options such as public transport, taxi and rideshare options on the Sydney Airport web page.      
  

• To and from campus: Getting public transport, driving, or walking to campus? See which mode of transport is most convenient for you at UNSW Estate Management

Opal cards
International students need to purchase an Adult Opal card to use on public transport in Sydney.

If you have received one of the below Australian Government scholarships and enrolled full-time, you may be eligible for a concession Opal card:

• Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarships – Full research scholarships funded by the Department of Education and Training.
• Endeavour Postgraduate Scholarships and Vocational Education and Training Scholarships.
• Australian Awards – Full scholarships funded by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

If you are doing Cross Institutional Study and your study load is equal to a full-time load, you may be eligible for a concession Opal card. Bring proof of your Cross Institutional Study enrolment to The Nucleus: Student Hub to check your eligibility.

International students under the age of 18 have additional accommodation and welfare arrangements to consider. 

Got questions? Here are some of the most Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Under 18 (U18) international students and for parents or custodians of U18 students.  

Closer to the start of term, you’ll receive your Under 18 International Student Welcome Letter which includes details of information sessions for parents and caregivers.  

If you plan on bringing your family to Australia, you’ll need to consider Australian living costs, schooling and/or childcare. 

Find the support services and resources you need if you are living with a disability and need assistance settling into UNSW.

Got questions about what it’s like to live & study in Australia? It’s normal to have lots of questions when you arrive in a new country. Register for our UNSW Cultural Mentor Program and partner up with a Cultural Mentor who’ll help you settle in! 

Bookmark our International Student Life resource to have all the programs and services you need at your fingertips to support your student journey at UNSW.