International students often experience culture shock and loneliness when trying to deal with starting a new course, making friends and living in a new country. There's no need to worry though, plenty of help and support is available. Remember that you are not alone - there are many other international students in the same position, and probably even some local students who are also feeling lost and confused.

What you can do to ease the transition

• Join a student group, such as a sporting club or the international student association at your institution. The quicker you make friends the quicker you will settle into your new environment.

• Talk to people - you will find most Australians to be friendly and open, and happy to have a chat.

• Participate in some Australian activities - whether it's going to a football game or visiting an Australian art gallery, any activity will give you an insight and understanding into your new home.

• Even if English is your second language, don't be afraid to use it! Making mistakes is part of learning.

• Remember that academic life in Australia is probably different from in your home country. Australian students are encouraged to speak up in lectures and tutorials and are more independent learners. Most education providers have academic transition programs that give you help and advice on everything from essay writing to exam preparation. Read this article for advice on how to make the academic transition to study in Australia.

What types of support services are provided for international students?

Information and advice for pre-departure and arrival
Most international student support offices provide information and support for students before they leave home, and for their arrival in Australia. This type of advice includes luggage limits, visa requirements and customs advice.

Many institutions offer a complimentary airport pick-up service for new arrivals.

Orientation programs
Every Australian education provider will run an orientation program for newly arrived international students and is usually held a couple of weeks before the start of semester. Even though you will be busy finding permanent accommodation and getting your bearings in a new city, it is worth it go make time to attend theses programs - at least so you know how to get to your first lecture or tutorial. More importantly, it will give you a chance to say hello to your lecturers and chat to some of the other students in your class.

Mentors and help from other students
Some universities and colleges provide students who act as volunteer mentors to new international students. These student mentors, who may be either local or international students, are recruited and trained by the international student support office. Mentors help organise and run special programs and events, and provide international students with advice and support, as well as opportunities to meet other students.

Counselling services
International student support offices provide counselling services with qualified and experienced professionals. Counsellors offer free, confidential counselling and advice on personal, social and academic matters, such as:

• culture shock

• depression, stress and anxiety

• eating disorders

• alcohol and drug problems

• relationship/family problems

• accommodation problems

• academic difficulties

International students should seek the help of counsellors if they are having problems of any kind, if they are feeling overwhelmed, lonely or homesick, depressed or overly anxious, stressed, or just need someone to talk to.

English language practice
The international student support offices of many Australian education providers offer services to help international students practice and improve their English language skills. Typically, these language groups encourage international and local students to come together and practice their language skills while learning about other cultures. Some universities specifically pair international students with a local student who is studying the international student’s native language. This gives international students a chance to improve their English language skills while assisting another student with their own language goals.

Help for accompanying family members
In addition to helping international students, the international student support services of some universities and colleges offer support services for family members who accompany students to Australia.
Support for family members typically includes services like:

• English conversation classes

• social meetings, activities and excursions

• counselling services to help with any problems such as culture shock, homesickness, difficulty adjusting to lifestyle and cultural differences, employment etc.

Information and advice for returning home
Most education providers offer international students who are finishing their studies information and advice about returning home. Seminars and brochures available to international students include advice and information about:

• readjusting to your home country

• employment possibilities

• migration issues

• obtaining final results

• alumni services

• transporting belongings home

• tax refunds.

Back to top