Student support services

International student support services 

In addition to the support services offered by the university to all students, a range of extra services is provided to international students to enable them to maximise their chances of academic success.

• Services and facilities
• Sport and leisure
  

International Student Advisors

The university provides a number of International Student Advisors who spend time each week on all campuses.  The International Student Advisors are responsible for providing Pre-Departure Programs, Mentor Programs, Airport Reception and Orientation Programs and general advice on all aspects of student life. They represent international student interests in the university, act as advocates on behalf of international students on both academic and welfare issues, and provide advice, support, referral and information to students in areas such as visa extensions, family support and academic support.
More information about student advisors.

Airport Reception Program

The university participates in the Airport Reception Program with a number of other New South Wales universities. This program links students to the UWS airport transport service and generally co-ordinates transportation from Kingsford Smith (Sydney) International Airport to the university campus at which you will be studying.

A Universities Information and Reception Desk is located in the foyer of the Arrivals hall at the airport during peak periods (January/February and July). When you receive your pre-departure information it will contain information about the Airport Reception Program. If you want the University to arrange for you to be met at the airport (at the Universities Reception Desk) and transported to the University, you must fill in the Airport Pick-up Application form (PDF) provided and fax it to the University at least five working days before your departure from home.

Accommodation service

Please read the full accommodation section carefully and ensure that you respond to any information sent to you before you leave home. There is an especially high demand for on-campus accommodation You should send your completed accommodation application forms (PDF) to the University as soon as you receive accommodation information.

Mentor Program

The International Student Mentor program provides all new international students with the opportunity to be linked to a ' Mentor'.   The mentor is usually a senior student whose role is to assist you in your transition to Australia and to university life. Your mentor will introduce you to other students, answer your questions about accommodation, food, shopping, banking and transport and will help you to become familiar with the university and the adjacent commercial areas. On some campuses your mentor will be the first person you meet after arrival, on others you will be introduced to your mentor during the Orientation Program.   How to become a mentor (Word doc)

Orientation Programs

Prior to the beginning of each semester the university offers an Orientation Program for international students. This program usually takes place in the week before classes commence. All students are advised to arrive in Australia before the commencement of the Orientation Program. The Orientation Program is designed to introduce you formally to the university and to the key staff with whom you will be dealing. It also provides crucial information and advice that will assist you in adjusting to the living and learning environment of the university. Apart from official enrolment and information sessions, the Orientation Program also gives you the opportunity to meet other students and participate in social activities and excursions.