Travel and Live Abroad
Sacre-Coeur, Paris - courtesy Peng Peng Wang, Know Europe postgraduate study tour, 2006. |
Prepare to travel and live abroad
Once you have selected your program destination, prepare for life in a foreign country. Learn a little of the language, history, culture, social and political conditions of your chosen country through books, periodicals, plays, films, exhibitions and other people. Use reference materials on the web. You can also get information from the appropriate embassy or consulate (opens in a new browser window) or tourist office. If you haven't already done so, you should read through the returned student reports on this website. Australians abroad are often asked questions about Australia's government, history, economics, culture and current events. It is a good idea to update your general knowledge. You could obtain an 'Australia Pack' from your member of Parliament - it contains our flag, a recording of our national anthem and other 'Oz stuff'. It is also a nice idea to buy lots of little Aussie souvenirs (such as clip-on koalas) to take with you as gifts.
Transport
In all cases students are responsible for their transport to and from the host's location. Deregulation in the airline industry has resulted in a proliferation of discounted airfares. Shop carefully when looking for inexpensive flights. The cheapest flight is not necessarily the one that best suits your needs. The host institution may arrange for a 'meet and greet' service when you arrive in the town or city if you inform them of your arrival date and time. Get an International Student ID Card which entitles students to numerous discounts on transport, accommodation, entrance fees, insurance and more (check this through any STA Travel (opens in a new browser window) office).
Passport, Visas and Vaccinations
All overseas travel requires a passport. If you already have one issued, check the expiry date to be sure that it lasts for at least 6 months after your expected return home. New passport applications may be lodged with a post office. A student visa may also be required for a semester of study, depending on the immigration regulations of the host country. Information relating to all visas may be obtained from a travel agent, the embassy or consulate (opens in a new browser window) of the country concerned. Do not wait until the last minute to request a visa; some embassies and consulates process visa requests quickly, but many do not.
As early as possible you should check with your doctor (opens in a new browser window) to find out if you require any vaccinations before you leave for overseas.
Health and Safety
It is important to take extra care of your personal health and safety when overseas. The host institution international office will be able to advise you how to find a doctor and/or other medical services while you are overseas. As mentioned above it is very important to organise health and travel insurance before you leave. You should have a medical check up before you go overseas and ask your doctor about any additional vaccinations you may require. If you are taking any prescription medicines on a regular basis it is a good idea to take enough supplies with you to last for the duration of your exchange.
When it comes to your personal safety you should use your commonsense. Try not to walk alone at night, do not wear expensive jewellery or carry large sums of money and try not to look too much like a tourist if you can possibly help it. If you are concerned about the stability and safety of the country you are visiting, check with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (opens in a new browser window) for travel advice.