International Student Guide Welcome
Welcome to UTS and to Sydney! We are delighted that you have chosen UTS for your study abroad experience and we are committed to ensuring your time with us is as enriching and enjoyable as possible. Studying in a foreign country is a life- changing experience - it’s an opportunity to challenge yourself personally and academically. You’re now part of a diverse community of students, academics and staff from all over the world. Our students and staff come from 120 different countries, making our campus a vibrant and dynamic place to “At UTS, we believe study and socialise. learning goes beyond the At UTS, we believe learning goes beyond classroom. I encourage the classroom. I encourage you to try you to try something new something new during your time here. Challenge yourself by volunteering, joining during your time here.” a sport or social club, learning about entrepreneurship or signing up for our leadership and development programs – there’s something for everyone at UTS. One of the best aspects of studying abroad is getting to know your host country; however adjusting to life in a new country can be challenging. We offer a wide range of support services, from our on-campus medical centre to academic and career support, most of which are free. Remember, our friendly staff are here to support you at any time. Don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it. I wish you all the best for an exciting and rewarding time in Sydney and at UTS.
Iain Watt Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Vice-President (International) Contents
UTS student diversity Arriving at UTS 03 Starting at UTS 04 46,259 students 15,577 international students Starting at UTS 04 50% students speak a language Campus map 07 other than English Talks, tours and orientation events 08 The above numbers are approximate as of July 2020. Living in Sydney 10
Accommodation 10 Acknowledgement of Country Money and Banking 12 Acknowledging country is a cultural protocol that is a respectful public Getting around 14 acknowledgment of the traditional Food and shopping 16 custodians of the land. UTS acknowledges the Gadigal Support and wellbeing 18 People of the Eora Nation and the Culture shock and your wellbeing 18 Boorooberongal People of the Dharug Nation upon whose ancestral Support services 20 lands our campuses stand. Study and career success 22 We would also like to pay respect to the Elders both past and present, Safety and security 24 acknowledging them as the traditional custodians of knowledge Managing your course 26 for these Lands. Your student visa 28
Connect with us Beyond the classroom 30 FAQS 32 UTSInternationalstudents UTSint #UTSint FAQS for full-award international coursework students 32 weibo.com/UTSI FAQS for full-award international UTS-Official research students 34
FAQS for sponsored students 36
FAQS for study abroad and exchange students 38 Emergency contacts 40 Photo: Kwa Nguyen
Note: This guide was updated in July 2020, in Keep up to date with the latest advice on response to the current situation surrounding COVID-19 and how UTS is responding here: coronavirus (COVID-19). uts.edu.au/current-students/news/ The health and wellbeing of our staff, coronavirus-and-international-travel- students and wider community remains information our number one priority. We will continue to follow the advice and direction of health.gov.au/news/health-alerts/novel- State and Federal authorities. coronavirus-2019-ncov-health-alert health.nsw.gov.au/Infectious/covid-19/ Pages/frequently-asked-questions.aspx Arriving at UTS Arriving at UTS Congratulations, you’ve made it to UTS! As a new international student you probably have lots of questions about your new home. This guide will help you settle in quickly, so you can start making the most of your time in Sydney and at UTS! Now you’ve arrived Take a look at what you need to do next using this checklist.
ARRIVAL IN SYDNEY
Contact family and friends to tell them that you have arrived
Attend the mandatory Essential International Advice session (see page 8)
Get accommodation (see page 10)
Update your address and contact details on My Student Admin (see page 5)
Finalise your enrolment (see page 26)
Collect your UTS student ID card (see page 39)
Open an Australian bank account (see page 12)
SETTLING IN
Buy essential items for your new accommodation (see page 16)
Check out UTS Careers / ActivateUTS – attend social activities! (see page 30)
Explore the campus and city (see page 7 and page 14)
3 University of Technology Sydney Starting at UTS Before your classes start, take the time to get to know the people who are here to help you at UTS.
UTS INTERNATIONAL DOCUMENTATION As an international student, UTS International At UTS International, we can provide you is your main contact point at uni. We can help with letters confirming your student status you with questions about: to assist you with: – your student visa, including visa – working in Australia conditions, renewal and extension – doing your tax – Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) – managing your banking – changing universities – verifying your international student status – managing your study load – changing your student visa to a visitor visa – documents for work and visa issues to stay for your graduation ceremony GET IN TOUCH Visit us at the International Student Centre If you’re not sure where to go for help, contact to apply online. Requests normally take us at UTS International. If we can’t help you, around three working days to process, but we’ll point you to someone who can. this could be longer during busy times after session results are released. During this time, Visit us at Building 5, Block A (CB05A) completion letters may take up to ten working International Student Centre: days to process. Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm We issue these documents free of charge (excluding public holidays). as long as you don’t have any overdue fees Student Advisor drop ins: and your enrolment or course completion Monday, Wednesday and Thursday, is correct. 2pm to 4pm STAY CONNECTED Tuesday and Friday, 10am to 12pm Stay in touch with your friends and family Tel: (+61 2) 9514 1531 with an Australian SIM card. You’ll save a lot of [email protected] money when calling overseas or using data in Australia. Study abroad and exchange Australia’s major providers include: Officer drop ins: optus.com.au Monday to Friday, 10am to 11am telstra.com.au and 2pm to 3pm vodafone.com.au Tel: (+61 2) 9514 7915 You can buy a prepaid SIM card at news [email protected] agencies, supermarkets or phone retailers. If you’d rather get a monthly phone plan, visit the provider’s store or website. See page 6 for information about UTS wifi.
4 Starting at UTS
Photo: Kwa Nguyen
OFFICIAL UTS COMMUNICATION STUDENT CENTRES Don’t miss any essential information and The UTS Student Centres can help with: updates. Keep us up to date with your current address and mobile number. – subject and course information Make sure you also check your UTS email – study plan, enrolment and class account regularly. This is the official way we allocation enquiries communicate with you. – progression and academic caution UTSOnline is our online platform* for students – exam-related and academic progress and academics. Your lecturers will use this to applications share subject materials and communicate – leave of absence and concurrent study with your classmates. This is where you’ll also applications find your subject outline and any preparation you need to do before class. Check your – recognition of prior learning and UTSOnline account regularly. subject substitution applications online.uts.edu.au – graduation matters *From 2020, all postgraduate subjects will be in Canvas. FIND YOUR STUDENT CENTRE AT: Building 10, Level 2 Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm Visa requirement First two weeks of Autumn/Spring sessions, 8:30am to 6pm Update your address and contact details within seven days of arriving Building 5 – Haymarket Block C, Level 1 in Australia or changing address. Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm Don’t forget - it’s a condition of your First two weeks of Autumn/Spring student visa! sessions, 8:30am to 6pm We can’t accept responsibility if STUDENT CENTRE ENQUIRIES important information doesn’t reach Submit online enquiries and eRequests you because you haven’t told us your to your Student Centre via ask.uts.edu.au new details. You can do this through My Student Admin. 1300 ASK UTS (1300 275 887) onestopadmin.uts.edu.au
5 University of Technology Sydney
LIBRARY AND THE STUDENT LEARNING HUB During your studies, the UTS Library will be a valuable resource to you. We offer a wide range of resources and services, including: WIFI at UTS – Online tutorials: lib.uts.edu.au/headsup All students at UTS can – Study spaces including bookable connect to our free and secure collaborative study rooms: wifi network (UTS-WiFi). Log in using your student lib.uts.edu.au/facilities/library-spaces ID and password. – Free events and classes to help with your studies: lib.uts.edu.au/events – Library computers installed with Chinese, Korean and Japanese software Situated at the heart of UTS Central, the Student Learning Hub (Building 2, level 4) is the go-to place for students to receive advice and guidance on UTS student support services. Throughout each teaching session a range INFORMATION of UTS services will pop up in the Hub. From TECHNOLOGY SERVICES financial assistance to careers, assignment Every UTS student has a Microsoft Office help to Library services, the Hub will bring 365 account with access to: support services from across the university campus to this one location when students – Email and calendar (50GB) need them most. – OneDrive (1TB) From 10am to 6pm on weekdays the UTS students can also access: Student Learning Hub guides will be ready to help students find their way to the right – 3000 computers across campus place for help. (many available 24/7) Find out more about library orientation, – Onsite free wifi (UTS-Wi-Fi) tours and workshops on our website: – A laptop loan scheme lib.uts.edu.au To learn more about our services TEXTBOOKS and facilities, visit itd.uts.edu.au The Co-op Bookshop is an online store that offers IT SUPPORT CENTRE a wide range of books, including textbooks. It also stocks calculators, stationery and computer IT solutions and help is available from our software. Join the Co-op Bookshop to shop online helpdesk, ServiceConnect. You online, and receive lifetime discounts on can also call or visit our IT Support Centre purchases, including Apple products. in person. coop.com.au – Building 10, Student Centre Renting or using second-hand textbooks is an – Building 5, Block C, Level 1, Room 41 affordable and sustainable alternative to buying Tel: (+61 2) 9514 2222 brand new. Find second hand books on: studentvip.com.au/textbooks serviceconnect.uts.edu.au gumtree.com.au (student number and password is required) amazon.com.au
6 Starting at UTS
CAMPUS MAP - LEGEND 5 Minute Walk
Bus Escalator Train Bike Parking Lights/Crossing Parking ULTIMO Student Housing PH01 N POWERHOUSE Childcare MUSEUM Accessible Route
Preferred path of travel WENTWORTH PARK Macarthur St Pedestrian Walkway Under Construction DARLING WP01 HARBOUR e Ln ett St 92 att l Jones St McKee St W Hac k
16 81 Kelly St CHINATOWN CA02 MARY ANN STREET PARK 91
Mary Ann St Darling Dr 15 08
H A 05 Y TAFE TAFE M Harris St
Omnibus Lane A
R
K ain St BROADWAY E SHOPPING Ultimo Rd T CENTRE Mount Thomas St 72 10 07 01 ABC 62 04B 61 CA06 e St 04 Quay St
att l ALUMNI W GREEN PARRAMA CA03 The Goods Line TTA RD 11 06
03 0 2 VICTORIA Y PARK E BRO N AD 09 D WA Y GEORGE ST Y C S H 18 I Buckland St P 25 Harris St P 22 20 E
N ombie St 28 cr Pitt St D 27 A Aber L Blackf E ria rs St BELMORE CENTRAL P PARK l e ARK n n RAILWAY u CA01 T SQUARE St e ir on St Lee St sh on v e D CENTRAL STATION
Kensingt
Regent St Try the new UTS UTSAPP mobile map site! Scan QR code or visit Download the new UTS mobile app site, way nding.uts.edu.au UTSApp and keep useful features at your fingertips, including access to: Find your way – UTS Email around campus – Interactive campus map When trying to locate a room or facility at UTS, the campus comes – ActivateUTS events calendar first: CB = City Broadway – Shuttle bus timetable MP = Moore Park – Staff directory The building comes next, then the floor – Campus security and emergency level, followed by the room number. So contacts CB1.26.17 = Broadway campus, Building 1, level 26, room 17. Desktop sites: maps.uts.edu.au wayfinding.uts.edu.au
7 University of Technology Sydney Talks, tours and orientation events Welcome to Orientation! This is your chance to discover everything you need to know about study, support and social life at UTS.
REGISTRATION FACULTY WELCOMES Please refer to your pre-arrival email Learn important information about your from UTS International for instructions on course and meet your lecturers. how to register for Orientation and enrol in your subjects. If you didn’t receive it, CRAFT YOUR CAREER contact UTS International at Career Tips for International Students [email protected] Get advice about what you can start doing today to kick-start your career. Browse sessions: Finding a Part-Time Job – International student sessions Discover the Australian job market and orientation.uts.edu.au/international/ take advantage of UTS CareerHub – our – All student sessions online portal for jobs, resources and orientation.uts.edu.au/sessions/ upcoming events. DISCOVER YOUR CAMPUS UTS Campus Tours Check out UTS’s iconic structures, and discover how to find the library, computer Orientation sessions for labs, your faculty, lecture rooms, and more. international students LIVING MATTERS Surviving on a Student Income: All international students MUST attend Supporting myself through uni one of the relevant sessions below: Understand your expenses and get some Essential International Advice: budgeting tips. International Students (Full Degree) Taking Charge: Studying Abroad and Essential International Advice: Your Mental Wellbeing Study Abroad and Exchange Students Hear from other students and familiarise (Non-Award)* yourself with the UTS support services. *For Study Abroad and Exchange students who will study at UTS for one or two sessions before returning to their home university overseas.
8 Starting at UTS
“I was very nervous before I came here, but when I arrived all the worries went away. Everyone was so friendly during Orientation. I met a lot of friends that I’m still friends with today.”
VANESSA TRUONG, Vietnam Bachelor of Business Bachelor of Creative Intelligence and Innovation Photo: Annabel Jeffrey
LOVE YOUR LIBRARY SOCIAL ACTIVITIES Library Tour in Mandarin Network Café Learn about all the services the library offers Join Network Café for a free coffee! Meet and the variety of ways they can help you new students from overseas and current UTS succeed while at university. students. Practise your English skills, learn about the Australian culture and find answers Quick Start Library Workshop in Mandarin to your questions about student life at UTS. Essential for incoming students, this workshop covers how to find the required Clubs Day readings for your subjects and how to use the Brought to you by ActivateUTS, Clubs Day library to find journal articles and books for will get you up close and personal with all your assignments. the fun stuff that UTS has to offer. Check out our clubs, societies, and sports teams, Tools for English Language Improvement connect with students who share your Learn about all the great resources UTS interests, and browse the freebies, stalls, Library offers for improving your English and free food giveaways. language skills. Speed Friending STUDY SUCCESS Meet like-minded people outside of How to Improve your English the classroom and learn about some Speaking Skills extracurricular activities you can get Build your confidence and improve your involved in at UTS! speaking skills in and out of the classroom. UTS BUILD Social Mixer Read & Write Literacy Support Join this interactive and engaging session Read & Write is free software available to designed to help you make new friends. all UTS students to assist you with reading, Finish up by networking over free food. writing, studying and research. It is especially helpful to those who don’t speak English as a first language. Note: given the current situation UTS Systems: Get Connected and Enrol surrounding COVID-19, all An introduction to My Student Admin, orientation sessions will be myTimetable, UTS Online, and the many IT delivered online this session. services available. To browse all sessions, events and activities offered during orientation, please visit: orientation.uts.edu.au
9 University of Technology Sydney Accommodation Finding the right place to live is one of the most important steps to feeling at home. Here are some tips to get you started.
PRIVATE RENTALS Usually managed by real estate agents, private rentals are covered by a formal rental contract. Private rentals are often unfurnished and not inclusive of bills, meaning you’ll need to buy your own furniture and pay your bills separately. Sydney’s rental market is very competitive. Follow these steps when searching for private rentals: – Search for properties online – Inspect the property in person – If you like a place, be prepared to make an offer for it on the day of the inspection! UTS HOUSING At UTS, we offer a range of comfortable, uts.studystays.com.au affordable and convenient living options. realestate.com.au All UTS Housing is fully-furnished and domain.com.au self-catered. Choose from: SHARED ACCOMMODATION – 5 student residences Don’t want to live in student accommodation – On campus or close to campus options but still want to live with other people? Shared accommodation (a share house) – Share or studio apartments could be a good option for you. housing.uts.edu.au A share house is a property that’s occupied The UTS Housing Service can also assist by multiple tenants under an informal you with your off-campus accommodation agreement (with a lead tenant responsible search. We can help you with: for the formal lease). – Finding short or long term accommodation Before you sign an agreement, always: – Applying for accommodation – View the property in person – Your rights as a tenant in NSW – Meet your housemates in person [email protected] – Request a written agreement that PRIVATE STUDENT HOUSING clearly states the agreed price and We offer discounted rates at privately run what’s included. student residences located close to campus. – Request detailed receipts for all uts.studystays.com.au payments, like your bond housing.uts.edu.au
10 Living in Sydney
SYDNEY - THE CITY OF VILLAGES Sydney is made up of many suburbs, each with its own distinctive character. Explore the areas and find your favourite vibe. Inner city suburbs Alexandria, Camperdown, Marrickville, Newtown, UTS Petersham, Redfern and Summer Hilly Close to the beach Close to campus Bondi, Bronte, Coogee, Maroubra Chippendale, Glebe, and Randwick. Haymarket, Pyrmont, Surry Hills, Ultimo and The City.
YOUR RENTAL RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES Visa requirement YOU HAVE THE SAME RENTAL RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES AS Update your address details with us and the Department of Home AN AUSTRALIAN. Affairs within seven days of moving Your rights: to a new property. Don’t forget - it’s – The property owner is responsible for a condition of your student visa! To ensuring that the property is maintained update your address go to: and liveable onestopadmin.uts.edu.au homeaffairs.gov.au Your responsibilities: – You are responsible for taking reasonable care of the property you’re living in Read up on your rights on the Office of Fair Trading website. Got an Australian fairtrading.nsw.gov.au bank account? ACCOMMODATION ASSISTANCE You’ll most likely need an Our friendly advisors can offer support Australian bank account before tailored to your needs. you can sign your rental contract. housing.uts.edu.au Turn to page 12 to find out how to [email protected] open a bank account.
11 University of Technology Sydney Money and banking An onshore bank account is essential for managing your money in Sydney. Set up regular payments for rent and bills and avoid international fees for your day-to-day purchases.
BANK ACCOUNT Open a bank account in the first few weeks of your arrival. Most bank Banking tips branches are open Monday to Friday, Many banks offer accounts just 9.30am to 4pm and some larger for students, with lower fees and branches are open on Saturdays. charges. Do some research before opening your account, or ask your Australia’s major banks include: chosen bank if they have any special anz.com.au deals for students. commbank.com.au nab.com.au westpac.com.au To set up an account, you’ll need several Money transfers forms of identification, including your: Money transfers can take time, – Passport so make sure you have another way to get cash during your first – Proof of enrolment few weeks. Overseas telegraphic transfers take around three working ATMS days to enter your Australian bank You’ll find ATMs all over Sydney. Please account, while bank drafts can take note, some banks might charge you a two or three weeks. fee for using your bankcard at another bank’s ATM machine. It’s good to check this in your terms and conditions before signing up for a bank account. CARD OR CASH? Card payments, including contactless payment (PayPass or payWave) for purchases under A$100, are widely accepted. However, it’s still a good idea to carry some cash as some stores have a minimum spend for card payments.
Photo: Kwa Nguyen
12 Living in Sydney
Student discount Many retailers offer student discounts. Show your UTS student ID card or use the UNiDAYS app, to get the discount. Photo: Kwa Nguyen myunidays.com/AU/en-AU
MANAGING YOUR MONEY FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE It’s likely that your first few weeks in Sydney The Financial Assistance Service can will be more expensive than an average week. assist you with practical and financial Plan ahead and budget your money for: aspects of your university life. They also have self-help resources available – Food through their website: – Travel expenses uts.edu.au/current-students/ – Social events support/financial-help/financial- assistance-service – Emergencies
13 University of Technology Sydney Getting around UTS is next door to Central Station – connecting our campus to the rest of the city. That means you’ve got regular buses, trains and light rail services at your doorstep!
TRAVEL PAYMENT Pay for your travel by tapping on and off at Opal Card readers with a valid contactless- Public transport tips enabled credit or debit card. Accepted card – Download a public transport app, issuers are: e.g. TripView – American Express – Travel all day on Sundays and pay – Mastercard only $2.80 – Visa credit or debit card – Remember to tap on at the beginning of your trip, and tap – A linked device off at the end to be charged the Note: If your card was issued outside of correct fee! Australia, overseas transaction charges – Buses will not stop unless may apply. Contact your card issuer for signalled to do so. To signal the more information. driver, reach out and give them transportnsw.info/tickets-opal/opal/ a wave! contactless-payments mysydney.nsw.gov.au Alternatively, you can purchase an Opal card transportnsw.info (Sydney’s transport smartcard), which is 131500 valid for most public transport in and around Sydney. Buy your Opal card at train and light rail stations, ferry wharves and convenience stores. Top up with cash, or set up automatic Walking and cycling tips top-up online through the Opal app. – In Australia we drive on the left Note: as an international student in Sydney, side of the road. Look both ways you’ll need to buy an Adult Opal card. before crossing the road! Concession Opal cards are only available – Always use pedestrian crossings, to international students on an Australian or risk a hefty fine! Jaywalking is government scholarship. illegal. Not only is it dangerous, opal.com.au and can lead to injury or death, BUSES but in NSW the current fine for Many buses are pre-pay only. That means jaywalking is $75. you’ll need your contactless or Opal card – Wear a helmet when cycling, to board. it’s the law! METRO – Use designated bicycle lanes Sydney Metro can quickly take you between – Do not cycle on footpaths, except Tallawong Station and Chatswood Station. shared cycleways The metro stops at 13 stations along the Metro North West Line.
14 Living in Sydney
TRAINS CAMPUS SHUTTLE BUS The Sydney rail network is inexpensive, fast Travel between the UTS Broadway and and reliable. Use your contactless or Opal Haymarket campuses, Building 8 and our card for all trains on the Sydney rail network. student residences on weeknights with the UTS campus shuttle bus. We also run a free FERRIES shuttle bus between Building 10 and the Sydney’s iconic yellow and green ferries UTS Tech Lab at Botany. connect our beach and harbour-side suburbs uts.edu.au/about/about-our-campus/ to our main ferry terminal - Circular Quay. getting-around-campus/shuttle-buses SYDNEY LIGHT RAIL (TRAMS) DRIVING Sydney Light Rail links the CBD with Sydney’s Want to drive in NSW? You can use your inner western and eastern suburbs. Popular existing drivers licence for up to three stops are Sydney Fish Markets, Darling months. After that, you’ll need to get a NSW Harbour, Chinatown, Surry Hills and drivers licence. Moore Park. rms.nsw.gov.au/roads/licence/visiting- nsw.html WALKING A great way to explore the city, walking is the Owning and running a car in Sydney can best way to discover Sydney’s hidden gems. be expensive. Found a cheap vehicle? Consider the costs of registration and Navigate your way around campus using our insurance (both compulsory), petrol and UTS preferred pathways. These paths are parking – it all adds up! the quickest and safest routes for all of us at UTS to take full advantage of our inner-city Tip: Get an e-TAG. The Sydney metro area location while avoiding traffic. has many toll roads, most of which don’t uts.edu.au/partners-and-community/ accept cash. initiatives/city-campus-master-plan/ campus-development-news/2018- CAR SHARING news/get Popular in inner Sydney, car sharing means you don’t have to think about car spaces or CYCLING maintenance – or buying a car in the first Convenient, healthy and environmentally- place! Join a car-share scheme and you’ll friendly, cycling is a great way to get around be able to use a car whenever you need it. Sydney. Sydney City Council offers workshops goget.com.au on riding in the city. Attend a workshop and hertz247.com/Australia discover the safer cycleways in your area. carnextdoor.com.au sydneycycleways.net Secure bicycle parking is available across Sydney and on campus. You’ll find showers Road rules and bike racks in the Ross Milbourne Sports NSW has strict laws on speeding, Hall and in Buildings 4, 5, 8 and 10. mobile phone usage, and driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Police conduct Random Breath Tests (RBT) and Mobile Drug Tests (MDT) on motorists. For more information about Sydney Familiarise yourself with all the transport, please visit: important road rules: transportnsw.info/travel-info/ roadsafety.transport.nsw.gov.au ways-to-get-around
15 University of Technology Sydney Food and shopping Knowing where to find your favourite foods is an important step towards feeling at home in Sydney. Eating well will also help you manage stress, stay focused in class and maintain your health. Luckily, you’re surrounded by supermarkets, speciality grocery stores and great places to eat!
Photo: Kwa Nguyen Eating with friends
SUPERMARKETS When eating out, you’ll generally be Most supermarkets are open seven expected to pay for yourself. The days a week and stay open late. The total bill is usually split between closest supermarkets to UTS are attendees at the end of the meal. Woolworths at Central Park, Coles and If you’re invited to someone’s Aldi at Broadway, and IGA at Market City. house, it’s common to take a small contribution like a bottle of wine or ALDI: aldi.com.au a box of chocolates. Coles: coles.com.au IGA: iga.com.au Woolworths: woolworths.com.au
16 Living in Sydney
FREE FOOD Our Student Association offers free pop-up cafés during the Autumn and Spring teaching sessions. Bluebird Brekkie Bar: – Tuesday, 8.30 to 11am, Law Courtyard, Building 5 – Wednesday, 8.30 to 11am, Level 4, Tower Building Foyer Night Owl Noodle Bar: – Tuesday and Thursday, 5 to 7.30pm, Level 4, Tower Building Foyer utsstudentsassociation.org.au/ services/bluebird-brekkie-bar
Student at Bluebird Brekkie Bar SHOPPING Photo: Anna Zhu Need to buy furniture and add your personal touch to your new home? You’ll find everything you need and more at Kmart, Target and IKEA. INTERNATIONAL FOODS Second-hand shops, also known as ‘op- With Sydney being a multicultural city, you’ll shops,’ are another good option; check out find restaurants and stores with foods from the Salvation Army (Salvos) and St Vincent across the world. Looking for a taste of de Paul (Vinnies) shops, or check online home? Take a short stroll to nearby: platforms, like Gumtree and Facebook. gumtree.com.au – Paddy’s Haymarket – Spice Alley – Sydney’s Chinatown For information about specialist international, halal and kosher food, visit: halalsquare.com.au Did you know… jewishaustralia.com Sydney’s water is filtered to the UTS CENTRAL FOOD COURT high standards set by the Australian Check out the new UTS Central food court for Drinking Water Guidelines, meaning a range of food options, as well as a vibrant our water is safe to drink straight space to eat, study and socialise. from the tap. What’s more, it’s also plastic-free! We have UTS has many filtered water stations eliminated single-use plastics opting instead around campus so you can refill your for reusable, fully compostable and recyclable reusable drink bottle throughout products. Some cafés even offer a discount if the day. Save money and the you bring your own cup or container! environment; choose tap water!
17 University of Technology Sydney Culture shock and your wellbeing Living in a foreign country is a rewarding experience, but it’s not without its challenges! It’s normal to feel overwhelmed as you adjust to life in your new home. Luckily, help is always available.
CULTURE SHOCK When you first arrive, you might experience some culture shock. It’s important to remember you’re not alone and help is always on hand. If you feel overwhelmed and don’t know where to go for help, speak with one of our international student advisors. See page 4 for contact details.
The four stages of culture shock
1 Honeymoon stage 4 Acceptance stage Everything is new Students have a good and exciting! routine and a great network of friends to share and embrace each other’s cultural Wellbeing differences. 3
Adjustment stage Frustration stage 2 Good friends and fun activities Language barriers, can help students become misunderstandings and more comfortable in their new cultural differences can surroundings. Frustrations become frustrating. start to fade.
18 Support and wellbeing
GET CONNECTED One of the best ways to conquer homesickness is to make new friends. Join one Consent matters of our many clubs and societies and connect We all have a responsibility to with others - there’s a club for everyone! ensure the UTS campus stays a activateuts.com.au safe and respectful environment uts.edu.au/current-students/campus-life/ for all. To encourage healthy ways-meet-people relationships, we’ve rolled out Consent Matters online training for REACHING OUT all students and staff. At the UTS Medical Centre, we offer a free and confidential counselling service to all Consent Matters aims to students. Qualified psychologists can help give everyone at UTS a clear you with personal, psychological, study and understanding of what constitutes administrative troubles, including help with unacceptable sexual behaviour a special consideration application to help as well as the skills to respond to manage assignment deadlines. We also have inappropriate behaviour. You’ll be Mandarin and Cantonese speaking services. sent information about the training uts.edu.au/current-students/support to your student email. Complete the modules as soon as possible. BATYR If you feel uncomfortable about Batyr is a student-led organisation that doing the online training, email educates and empowers young people to have [email protected] open and honest conversations about mental health. Batyr’s student speakers can show you For more info visit: where to get help and give you tips to manage uts.edu.au/partners-and- your mental health during your studies. community/initiatives/ facebook.com/BatyrUTS social-justice-uts/equity-and- diversity-uts/training-and/ WORKSHOPS AND consent GROUP COUNSELLING Learn how to cope with the pressures of study, work and life. The UTS counselling service runs a number of group counselling and workshops throughout the year, including: – Drop in mindfulness meditation Urgent help – Managing exam and assessment anxiety Need to speak with someone uts.edu.au/current-students/ immediately? Free and support/health-and-wellbeing/ confidential telephone, webchat counselling-service-and-self-help/ and email counselling is available workshops-and-group 24/7 through: KEEPING THE FAITH Lifeline 13 11 14 Visit the chaplaincy team and hear from lifeline.org.au members from the Baha’i, Buddhist, Christian, Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636 Jewish and Islamic faiths, amongst others. beyondblue.org.au Multi-faith rooms are available for use. uts.edu.au/current-students/ Or call 1800 636 825 for free support/health-and-wellbeing/ to speak with your nearest multi-faith-chaplaincy Community Mental Health team.
19 University of Technology Sydney Support services We offer a range of support services for our students, many of which are free. From medical appointments to legal and financial advice, we’re here to help you through it all.
MEDICAL AND UTS STUDENT LEGAL SERVICE COUNSELLING SERVICES We offer free and confidential legal advice The UTS Health Service offers friendly and to all UTS students on a range of issues, confidential medical services to all UTS including: students. You can request a male or female – Tenancy issues doctor. Most treatments are free if you show your Medibank membership card. If you’ve – Employment contracts forgotten your card or are with a different – Consumer claims Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) – Traffic issues provider, you can pay for the visit and make an online claim afterwards. Please note, we can’t provide legal advice on migration issues. If you visit one of the many medical utsstudentsassociation.org.au/legal centres around Sydney, you’ll need to pay at the time of your appointment. You can lodge STUDENTS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS an online claim with Medibank or your OSHC We’re committed to providing equal provider afterwards. opportunity for our students with special Our on-campus medical centre also offers a needs. If you have a temporary or permanent counselling service. It’s free and confidential. disability, including physical, sensory, See page 19 for more information. psychiatric and learning disabilities, or uts.edu.au/current-students/support an ongoing illness, support is available. In some cases, you may be able to apply FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE for alternative assessments during Learning to manage your money can be teaching sessions or special conditions difficult, especially if you’re living away from in examinations. You’ll need to supply home for the first time. Our friendly financial supporting documentation. advisors can give you confidential advice uts.edu.au/current-students/support about issues such as: – creating a budget – making the most of your current income Equity and diversity – saving money At UTS, we don’t accept – making large purchases like computers discrimination and harassment on the grounds of sex, race, colour, uts.edu.au/current-students/support/ descent, national or ethnic origin, financial-help/financial-assistance- ethno-religious background, marital service status and sexual orientation. If you have an equity-related query or complaint, our Equity and Diversity Unit can support you. equity.uts.edu.au
20 Support and wellbeing
Photo: Kwa Nguyen
STUDENT OMBUD Find help The Student Ombud’s Office is an informal, Learn which services can help you confidential and impartial service that can access the resources you need: help you with problems with UTS processes and procedures. If you feel unfairly treated – general administration queries: by the university or if you find yourself in a UTS International disagreement with an individual, office or – legal matters: UTS Student department within the university, you can Legal Service seek assistance from the Student Ombud. – issues relating to unlawful ombuds.uts.edu.au harassment: Equity and STUDENTS’ ASSOCIATION Diversity Unit The Students’ Association is the officially – counselling and support: recognised voice of UTS students. It Student Services Unit represents our students on an individual, – accommodation support: university and government level. The Students’ Association also has an UTS Housing Service Overseas Student Officer who represents the – financial advice: Student interests of international students at UTS. Services Unit sa.uts.edu.au – advocacy for students: CHILDCARE FACILITIES Students’ Association We have two childcare centres, one on – all types of emergencies: campus and one close by. Some childcare UTS Security places at UTS may be subsidised. Childcare uts.edu.au/current-students/ centres are also located throughout Sydney, support although getting a place can be competitive. childcare.uts.edu.au
21 University of Technology Sydney Study and career success
Get ahead of your academic and professional goals. The UTS Careers Service can help you improve your academic English, succeed in difficult subjects, find a part-time job and plan your dream career!
HELPS (ENGLISH LANGUAGE SUPPORT) Did you know? At HELPS (Higher Education Language & Presentation Support Service), we can If you’re from a non-English speaking enhance your learning experience by background, you may be eligible to providing individual and group support in apply for special exam conditions? a friendly and respectful environment. We This includes extra time and use of can also help you become an independent a dictionary. For more info, speak to and confident learner through the your Student Centre. development of your English language and academic understanding, so you can reach your study and career goals. We offer: – Daily workshops – Drop-in advice sessions – One-to-one consultations – Holiday courses helps.uts.edu.au HELPS BUDDY PROGRAM Our HELPS buddy program matches international students with students, staff and local community volunteers. They might get together once a week to practise speaking English or exchange languages. It’s a great way to improve your listening, conversation and pronunciation skills in an informal, Australian way! uts.edu.au/current-students/ support/helps/english-speaking/ helps-buddy-program
Photo: Kwa Nguyen
22 Support and wellbeing
Photo: Kwa Nguyen
CAREERS UTS Careers experienced team of recruitment advisors and career consultants are available to help you at every stage of your job search. Whether you’re looking for an internship, part-time role or graduate job, UTS Careers can assist you with resume writing, interview skills, and more! careers.uts.edu.au CareerHub is an online portal housing hundreds of UTS approved jobs, internships, workshops and more! careerhub.uts.edu.au You can also look for jobs on: HELPS TALKFEST careerone.com.au TalkFest is a free, fun-filled event that indeed.com.au connects international students with local oneshift.com.au volunteers to promote cultural exchange. seek.com.au TalkFest is an opportunity to eat free pizza, play indoor games and participate in rounds Find out more about your workplace rights, of speedfriending! including your working hours, on page 29. uts.edu.au/current-students/support/ helps/english-speaking/talkfest CONVERSATIONS@UTS HELPS also runs Conversations@UTS, free sessions to practise speaking English in Online learning at UTS social and professional environments. Join Online learning is managed UTS staff and alumni volunteers for relaxed, through the UTS Online friendly and supportive conversations! management system (blackboard uts.edu.au/current-students/support/ and Canvas). Access UTS Online helps/english-speaking/conversationsuts to find information about subject U:PASS requirements, assessments, due dates, weekly schedules and more. Having trouble with a difficult subject? Our Peer Assisted Study Success (U:PASS) Supporting online program can help you in subjects that are perceived as difficult or have a high failure study portal rate. At U:PASS, you’ll work with trained The Supporting online study senior students who have successfully portal has been set up to support completed the subject. They’ll guide you students with online learning, so through a collaborative study session you can access student services, will fellow students, so you can build your resources, events and more while understanding in a supportive group setting. studying from home. uts.edu.au/current-students/ uts.edu.au/current-students/ support/upass supporting-online-study
23 University of Technology Sydney Safety and security Sydney is Australia’s safest city and the fifth safest in the world (The Economist’s 2019 Safe Cities Index). It’s a great place to live, but as with all big cities, you should keep these safety and security tips in mind.
STAY SAFE ON CAMPUS We want you to feel safe and at home on our campus; that’s why our security staff are on Be scam-aware campus 24/7. International students are often Our Staying Safe at UTS card lists all the targeted by scammers, with common emergency numbers you need – pick one up scams relating to tuition fee from the International Student Centre. Don’t payments. In these cases, victims forget to update your emergency contact lose the money they paid to the details in My Student Admin. scammer, and are still required to safetyandwellbeing.uts.edu.au pay the full tuition fee amount to their university. Security – dial 6 from a campus phone or 1800 249 559 Please note that scammers may also use other methods and UTS advises General UTS security enquiries – security all students to be wary. patrols our campus at all times. Dial 9514 1192 if you need general assistance. To avoid becoming the victim of a scam you should ensure that you are A regular security shuttle bus service for familiar with the formal UTS payment students and staff operates between our methods. If you are a commencing campus and our residences 7 nights a week student, please ensure you use from February to December. one of the UTS Appointed Student Recruitment Agents. UTS also operates an after-hours security escort service for all staff and students to a If you have any questions or want UTS Building or a UTS residence and Central to verify the authenticity of any Railway Station. Contact the UTS Security payment method or agent, please Control Room on 9514 1192, 7 nights a week. contact UTS through ‘ask UTS’, via the My Student Portal. Report accidents, incidents and hazards by calling 1800 249 559 (security) or report For information about the latest to a staff member. News and Alerts on Scams visit: safetyandwellbeing.uts.edu.au scamwatch.gov.au See page 40 for Emergency contacts. A useful free download with some great information is the Little Black PROTECT YOUR PASSWORD Book of Scams. UTS emails and logins are an attractive target for hackers. accc.gov.au/publications/the- little-black-book-of-scams Sign up for two-factor authentication (2FA) to help ensure you’re the only one who can access your data. Visit uts.edu.au/2FA
24 Support and wellbeing
Fire safety Did you know every home in NSW must have smoke alarms? This goes for any property where people sleep, whether it’s student accommodation, a private rental or a share house. The property owner needs to install the smoke alarms in your rented premises. As the tenant, it’s up to you to replace the battery as needed. STAY SAFE IN SYDNEY Remember, neither you nor the property Beach and sun safety owner are allowed to remove or tamper Sydney is home to many beautiful with the smoke alarm’s operation! beaches, rivers and lakes. But if you want fairtrading.nsw.gov.au/housing-and- to go fishing or swimming, you need to property/renting/during-a-tenancy/ know how to swim! At the beach, always safety-and-security swim between the red and yellow flags and with people you know. Never swim at an fire.nsw.gov.au unpatrolled beach or at night. Night safety Potential dangers can be difficult to spot At night, travel with another person and and conditions can change quickly, even if walk in well-lit areas after dark, even if it the water looks calm. makes your trip a little longer. Always be aware of your valuables like your mobile Get familiar with basic water safety phone and laptop. If you feel threatened beachsafe.org.au in any way, find the nearest shop or house Always wear sunscreen too – the sun in and ask to call the police. Australia can be very strong, even on a Taking public transport? Pick a well-lit cloudy day! area to wait for your train, bus or tram. Bushwalking Check the timetable to avoid a long wait. Bushwalking is a great way to explore our If you feel unsafe, pick a seat close to beautiful national parks. Make sure you other passengers. You could also sit next take a map, plenty of water, wet weather to the guard’s compartment on the train, gear, warm clothes and a phone on your it’s marked with a blue light. bushwalking trip. Walk with friends and take an emergency beacon; you can pick one up from camping stores. Before you go, tell a friend where you are going and when you plan to be back. nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/safety
Road safety Drink driving is illegal in Australia. That means it’s against the law to have more than a small amount of alcohol before you drive. Don’t get in a car with a driver who’s been drinking either; take a taxi or ride share instead. Find out more about alcohol and drug limits for drivers: rms.nsw.gov.au Photo: Destination NSW
25 University of Technology Sydney Managing your course Here we answer some common questions about the technical or administrative aspects of your course.
HOW DO I CHANGE MY SUBJECTS WHAT DO I DO IF I AM FAILING AFTER I’VE ENROLLED IN THEM? A SUBJECT OR COURSE? Once you have permission to change your We have a formal process for identifying subjects, you can add or drop pre-approved students at risk of failing. We do this after subjects on My Student Admin. Use your results are released at the end of each UTS student number and password to log in. teaching session. If we think you may be at onestopadmin.uts.edu.au risk of failing, we’ll reach out and put you in a support program to help you improve To add subjects that were not already your academic performance. In exceptional approved on your study plan, submit an circumstances you may be able to reduce e-request online. studentforms.uts.edu. your study load. au/evop. The student centre will process your e-request and send you a reply directly. CAN I APPEAL A The last day to add a subject is Monday of UNIVERSITY DECISION? week two of each teaching session. All UTS students have the right to appeal against certain administrative decisions The last day to withdraw from a subject taken by the university. If you feel you’ve been without academic and financial penalty treated unfairly by UTS or UTS staff you can is the Census date. also lodge a complaint. If you’re informed If you drop subjects after these dates, that we intend to cancel or suspend your the subject will appear as a fail on your enrolment, you have the right to appeal. academic transcript and you’ll be charged the tuition fee. The UTS Handbook has a comprehensive guide to important academic dates, just search ‘principal dates’ or ‘academic year dates’. handbook.uts.edu.au
Photo: Kwa Nguyen
26 Support and wellbeing
Still have questions? Visit your UTS student centre or go to our website: uts.edu.au/current- students/managing-your- course
Photo: Kwa Nguyen
WHAT IF I HAVE HOW DO I WITHDRAW FINANCIAL DIFFICULTIES? FROM MY COURSE? If you’re having trouble managing your If you’re thinking about discontinuing your money, you can make an appointment with studies at UTS, make sure you understand a financial assistance officer to discuss your options before making a final decision. your options. Speak with our friendly advisors at UTS International, your UTS Student Centre or Don’t forget: the UTS counselling service. – It’s a requirement of your student visa If you still want to withdraw, you can do this that you have enough money to support online. Once you’ve withdrawn entirely from yourself while in Australia. your course and you’re no longer enrolled, – If you encounter financial difficulties, you we will report this to the Department of may be able to arrange a fee payment Home Affairs and you may be required to extension. Lodge a request through leave Australia. askUTS as soon as possible. You’ll need to provide supporting documentation. HOW CAN I REQUEST COPIES OF MY TRANSCRIPT? – If you don’t pay your tuition fees by the Request additional copies of your academic due date, your enrolment at UTS may transcript at your UTS Student Centre or be discontinued. online. Just complete the application form uts.edu.au/current-students/support and allow a minimum of three working days for us to process your request. There is a fee of $30 for three copies.
27 University of Technology Sydney Your student visa It’s important that you’re aware of your student visa requirements, and how they relate to studying at UTS and living in Australia. Stay on top of your visa requirements with these frequently asked questions.
WHAT ARE MY RIGHTS AS AN INTERNATIONAL STUDENT? As an international student, you have certain rights and responsibilities, determined by the conditions of your student visa and by Australian government legislation. Don’t let your OSHC expire! uts.edu.au/future-students/international/ Remember, as a condition of your essential-information/being- student visa, it’s your responsibility to international-student-australia/your maintain valid OSHC throughout your stay in Australia. For information about student visa conditions, visit homeaffairs.gov.au CAN I TRANSFER TO ANOTHER INSTITUTION? If you want to leave UTS to pursue your studies at another institution within your first If you want to transfer courses, please note six months of enrolment, you’ll need to apply that under the SSVF you’re expected to for a release letter. maintain enrolment at the same or higher level of Australian Qualifications Framework Please note: We can’t guarantee you will be (AQF) study. If you wish to transfer to a course given a release letter. Refer to our Release that is at a lower AQF level, you’ll need to Protocol for more details – find this attached apply for a new visa. For information on AQF, to your offer letter or on our website. To get visit aqf.edu.au a release letter from UTS, you’ll need to first discuss your proposal with UTS International You must seek your own immigration advice staff. Then, submit a course withdrawal on the SSVF and any proposed course and/or request and a request for a release letter to provider transfers as this action may impact UTS International. You’ll also need to provide an your visa, up to and including cancellation. offer letter from your new education provider. You must take this important information into account if considering a course change or a UTS is an approved participant in the possible move to another provider. UTS does Australian Government’s Simplified Student not give visa or immigration advice. Visa Framework (SSVF). We recruit students into our degree courses under the SSVF Visit Department of Home Affairs website at arrangements of the Department of Home homeaffairs.gov.au for more information Affairs. The SSVF is designed to make the on the SSVF, the limits on changing your process of applying for a student visa simpler course/provider and how to meet the for genuine students. conditions of your student visa.
28 Support and wellbeing
WHAT DOES MY OVERSEAS STUDENT If you have any queries related to work HEALTH COVER (OSHC) INCLUDE? rights, please contact UTS International. OSHC covers general medical appointments The Department of Home Affairs website and emergency medical attention through also provides useful information on the public health system. It does not include working homeaffairs.gov.au physiotherapy, optical or dental care, the IF I WORK, DO I HAVE TO PAY TAX? cost of admission to a private hospital, or For taxation purposes, international non-emergency ambulance service. Extra students are considered residents of insurance is available to cover these possible Australia, so you will need to pay tax on additional expenses. money that you earn. You need to apply HOW DO I GET MY OSHC for a Tax File Number (TFN) to ensure MEMBERSHIP CARD? you’re taxed at the correct rate and the interest you earn on your bank savings is If you have arranged Medibank OSHC, you not taxed at the higher marginal rate. will need to activate your membership online after you arrive in Australia. More information If you’re already in Australia, you can on OSHC will be provided at Orientation. apply for a TFN online. You must have After you have arrived in Sydney and a valid passport or relevant travel have a confirmed address, you can log in documents. Your TFN will be emailed to to the Medibank website to indicate you within a few weeks. When you receive where you would like your membership it, you’ll need to notify your employer and card to be posted. bank of your number. ato.gov.au/individuals/tax-file-number HOW DO I RENEW MY OSHC? To renew your Medibank OSHC in person, you will need your Medibank membership card, passport and a copy of your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) that confirms you are continuing your studies Useful websites at UTS. You can also extend your OSHC membership online with your credit card. VISA APPLICATION Department of Home Affairs: CAN I WORK WHILE I STUDY? homeaffairs.gov.au If you’re a coursework student and you have a student visa, you can work up to 40 hours a HEALTH COVER fortnight during the main teaching sessions Department of Health: and unlimited hours during session breaks. health.gov.au Just remember that you can’t start working until you have started your UTS course. Medibank: medibank.com.au Please note: Unpaid internships also count towards your limit of 40 working hours per TAX fortnight. This doesn’t apply to internships that Australian Taxation Office: are a compulsory component of your course. ato.gov.au If you are a research student and you have commenced your masters by research or doctorate course in Australia, you have unlimited work rights.
29 University of Technology Sydney Beyond the classroom Your university experience goes beyond the classroom. This is your chance to meet new people, join a club or sporting team, develop your leadership skills or simply pick up a new hobby!
ACTIVATEUTS Get social with ActivateUTS. They run free events and activities on campus all year round. Plus, they also manage our two on campus bars – the Loft and the Underground. ActivateUTS also facilitate 130+ clubs and Clubs Day societies. From sports clubs and cultural societies, to faculty networks and adventure Brought to you by ActivateUTS, groups, there’s something for everyone! Clubs Day will get you up close activateuts.com.au and personal with all the fun stuff that UTS has to offer. Check out our SPORT AND FITNESS clubs, societies, and sports teams, UTS ActivateFit.Gym offers modern exercise connect with students who share equipment and group fitness classes. There your interests, and browse the is also a multipurpose sports hall on campus. freebies, stalls, and free food giveaways. Meet other UTS students and settle in to Sydney through the many sports and recreational activities offered by ActivateFit. Gym and ActivateUTS. With day trips, holiday adventures, short courses and social sporting activities on offer; there are plenty of opportunities to explore the best of Sydney and Australia. activateuts.com.au UTS ACCOMPLISH AWARD UTS Accomplish Award program is designed to enhance your employability success by helping you to identify and articulate your skills, knowledge and experience in an appropriate and professional way. Through a series of interactive workshops, experiential events, and employability hours, you’ll become familiar with the recruitment process while gaining practical and industry- relevant skills that could help you stand out from the crowd. uts.edu.au/current-students/opportunities/ There are more than 130 clubs careers/career-development-programs/ and societies you can join at UTS! uts-accomplish-award Photo: Kwa Nguyen
30 Beyond the classroom
UTS BUILD PROGRAM BUILD (Beyond UTS International Leadership Development) is a global leadership program designed to harness your leadership potential and develop your mindset, skills “The biggest benefit of UTS Startups and competencies as a global citizen and is learning from people with global leader. different experiences. If you’re Through BUILD you can participate in sitting in the co-workspace and interactive workshops, learn from inspiring you’re stuck on a problem related speakers, join field trips, engage in to marketing, for example, you can community activities and much more. walk over to someone who has a build.uts.edu.au company in marketing and ask them for advice. The support you get from UTS SOUL AWARD the Startups team is amazing too. If UTS SOUL Award is a two-stage, extra- there’s something they can’t answer, curricular community leadership and they’ll go out of their way to bring in volunteering program for UTS students. speakers who can teach us.” Through training, peer support and unique volunteering opportunities, SOUL enables KRISTYN WUEBBOLT, Canada students to venture beyond their degree and MBA, Entrepreneurship into the community. Skilling up, giving back Photo: Annabel Jeffery and making meaningful change. uts.edu.au/current-students/ opportunities/uts-soul-award/about-uts- soul-award/about-program UTS STARTUPS UTS Startups is a university-wide NETWORK CAFÉ program to inspire and support startups. Network Café brings together new and If you have a compelling business idea, current students through short trips, games they can help you with free co-working and sports days, many of which are free. It’s space, mentoring, pitch nights, industry a great way to meet both international and events and more! local students. Grab a free coffee at the entrepreneurship.uts.edu.au weekly catch-ups, held at Universal Café (Building 6). FESTIVALS AND uts.edu.au/current-students/campus-life/ CULTURAL EVENTS ways-meet-people/network-cafe Sydney is a global city, with exciting festivals and entertainment throughout RESEARCHERS CAFÉ the year. From fireworks on New Year’s Are you a first-year research student? Eve and Lunar New Year celebrations, Come along to the Concourse Café (Level 3, to Mardi Gras, Vivid and the Sydney Film Tower Building) the first Wednesday of each Festival, many of these events are free, month to meet other local and international or incorporate free activities. You can research students over a free coffee. also go on walking tours of the city. Visit uts.edu.au/current-students/campus-life/ whatson.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au ways-meet-people/researchers-cafe and sign up for their e-newsletter.
31 University of Technology Sydney FAQs
For full-award international coursework students You are a full-award international CAN I VARY MY COURSE coursework student if you are studying DURATION OR STUDY LOAD? your full degree at UTS, and are paying Under the Education Services for Overseas full tuition fees. Students (ESOS) legislative framework, you are expected to complete your course by the end date specified on your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). Your CoE end date is normally determined by the standard full-time duration of your course. For example, a UTS Bachelor of Business degree should be completed within three years. If you have been granted recognition of prior learning or advanced standing, your CoE duration may be shorter than the HOW DO I ENROL IN MY COURSE? standard full-time duration. You should have received a pre-departure email containing your UTS student number and directing you to Start at UTS start.uts.edu.au Credit points Please ensure that you activate your UTS email, enrol in your subjects online and To complete your course in the apply for your UTS ID card by following the standard duration you normally need instructions in the pre-departure email. to be enrolled in 48 credit points over You must obtain your ID card before the the academic year. It is also a visa enrolment deadline date and carry it with you requirement to study full-time. This at all times. is usually 24 credit points in either autumn or spring session, although CAN I APPLY FOR ADVANCED certain courses have non-standard STANDING OR RECOGNITION OF loads, e.g. 18 or 32 credit points.* PRIOR LEARNING? You can apply for exemptions for subjects you completed at another institution; In certain limited circumstances you can however, they must be similar in content and study less than the full-time load; however, depth to the subject at UTS. You’ll need to you must obtain prior permission from your submit an application for recognition of prior faculty and UTS International to do so. You will learning, together with certified copies of the then need to submit a reduced load form to subject outlines from your previous study to your UTS Student Centre. your UTS Student Centre as soon as possible. Your faculty will process your request. *Summer session is compulsory for students uts.edu.au/current-students/managing- studying some courses. Check the UTS Handbook your-course if you’re unsure.
32 FAQS
Photo: Kwa Nguyen
WHAT IF I NEED TO TAKE CAN I BE EXCLUDED FROM TIME OUT FROM MY STUDIES? MY COURSE? If you want to take temporary leave All UTS students are subject to from your course you need to apply for a academic progress requirements. Leave of Absence (LoA). When applying for Failure to meet these requirements can a LoA, remember: result in exclusion from your course. UTS is obliged by law to report all excluded – you can usually apply for up to four students to the government, which can teaching sessions of LoA lead to visa cancellation. – talk to a student advisor at UTS If you overstay your visa, you can be International before you apply for LoA subject to a three-year exclusion from – if you take LoA, your CoE may be cancelled Australia. To help avoid this occurring it’s and you may have to reapply for a new extremely important that you are familiar student visa offshore with the academic progress requirements – you are usually required to depart for your course and the relevant rules. Australia during your period of leave uts.edu.au/current-students/ managing-your-course/classes-and- – you must contact UTS International for a assessment/academic-progression new CoE once you are ready to resume your studies at UTS – you can make an application for leave of absence online: uts.edu.au/current- students/managing-your-course
Still have questions? CONTACT OUR TEAM: Tel: (+61 2) 9514 9914 or (+61 2) 9514 1796 or (+61 2) 9514 9239 or (+61 2) 9514 5708 or (+61 2) 9514 5723 Email: [email protected] Website: international.uts.edu.au
33 University of Technology Sydney
Photo: Kwa Nguyen FAQs
For full-award international research students You are an international research student if you are studying a PhD or Masters (Research) at UTS, and are paying full tuition fees or are on a scholarship.
HOW DO I ENROL IN MY COURSE? Once you are formally enrolled as a research Visit the Graduate Research School student, please attend the available welcome (GRS) in person to enrol in your PhD or and orientation sessions, meet with your Masters (Research). Bring your passport, supervisor to develop your Graduate Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and offer Research study plan. UTS offers a range of letter. GRS will enrol you in your nominated academic, health and wellbeing services course and any coursework subjects on your to support you throughout your research initial study plan. You can visit the Student candidature, please refer to Graduate Centre in Building 10 after 24 hours to obtain Research page for full information: your Student ID card; please state that uts.edu.au/research-and-teaching/ you are a postgraduate research student graduate-research/current-research- on arrival. students/graduate-research-journey GRS provides general support to all UTS FACULTY CONTACTS research degree students and supervisors. Faculty-specific contacts can also assist We can: you throughout your research candidature at UTS. – assist with managing your candidature – provide information on scholarships – Research Administrator (RA) – your and funding first point of contact for any queries or problems related directly to your – help with personal development candidature in the faculty through research education programs and workshops – Supervision team – responsible for overseeing your research degree project – provide support and administration throughout your candidature during your degree – Responsible Academic Officer (RAO) – oversees all of the faculty’s research students uts.edu.au/research-and-teaching/ graduate-research/contact-us
34 FAQS
FUNDING FOR GRADUATE HOW CAN I DEVELOP RESEARCH STUDENTS MY SKILLS? Each year a number of funding opportunities GRS offers a range of activities for are made available to research students research students and supervisors to by organisations outside of UTS. develop their knowledge, skills and Applications must be made directly to the capabilities, including workshops, online scholarship fund. resources and short courses provided by the e-Grad School of the Australian You can also apply for academic conference Technology Network of Universities. scholarships such as the Vice-Chancellor’s Postgraduate Research Student Conference Please refer to Research Education Fund, available twice per year. and Development (REaD) page for uts.edu.au/research-and-teaching/ more information: graduate-research/current-research- uts.edu.au/research-and-teaching/ students/graduate-research-journey/ graduate-research/current-research- funding students/research-education-and
Still have questions? CONTACT OUR TEAM: Tel: (+ 61 2) 9514 1336 Email: [email protected]
Website: uts.edu.au/research-and- Photo: Kwa Nguyen teaching/graduate-research New research students website: uts.edu.au/research-and- teaching/graduate-research/new- research-students/enrolment- information
35 University of Technology Sydney FAQs
CAN I VARY MY STUDY PROGRAM? To change your course or major, or apply for For sponsored students a course suspension or extension, apply You are a sponsored student if you are in writing to your sponsor and inform the studying your full degree at UTS, and your International Sponsored Students team in sponsor, government or employer has an writing. Please apply early as all variations agreement with UTS to pay your tuition require approval from your sponsor, which fees directly to the university. can often take more than a month. Extension of award will only be considered under exceptional circumstances where an extension is the only way you would be able CAN I GET A TRAVEL CONCESSION? to complete your course. Students applying If you are sponsored by the Australian for extension need to demonstrate the Government (Australia Awards Scholarships), potential to succeed. Please be advised you are eligible for concession fares on public that variation requests are only approved in trains, buses and ferries in NSW. UTS will special circumstances. arrange for you to get a Concession Opal Card. Ask at enrolment how you can apply for your CAN I BRING MY SPOUSE OR Concession Opal Card online. Other sponsored CHILDREN TO AUSTRALIA? students are not eligible for travel concession. You can bring your family with you during your stay in Australia, but make sure you Make sure you carry your UTS student card that consider the following: contains the travel concession with you at all times when using public transport. If you have – additional living costs, including a Concession Opal Card and do not have your rent, food, clothing, medical and student card, you may be fined. It’s important other necessities that you don’t order a Concession Opal Card – cost of airfares for your family to and until you have a UTS student card confirming your eligibility for travel concession. from Australia, and arranging their visas and health cover, including the cost WHAT ARE MY COURSE of arranging any visa or health cover ENROLMENT REQUIREMENTS? extensions Correct enrolment and re-enrolments are – employment possibilities for your responsibility. You must enrol in a full- your spouse time load each teaching session unless you – the cost of schooling children – if you are in your final session or your sponsor and are bringing school-aged dependants to the Student Centre has given you written Australia, you will normally be required to permission prior to reducing your study load. pay full fees if they are enrolled in either a WHAT HAPPENS IF I AM government or non-government school. FAILING A SUBJECT? There are other associated costs, such All UTS students need to make satisfactory as administrative fees, excursion fees, academic progress. If you fail or are likely uniform, sports and books. To find out to fail a subject, you should seek advice about enrolling your children in school, from your course or subject coordinator as visit the NSW Department of Education soon as possible and notify the International & Communities website. Sponsored Students team. deinternational.nsw.edu.au
36 FAQS
– whether your children will adjust to school You can find information for temporary in Australia visa holders who wish to enrol their – the effect on you and your studies if your children in government schools in NSW at: deinternational.nsw. family is not happy in Australia – your edu.au/study-options/study- family’s needs may considerably distract programs/temporary-residents you from your studies The Department of Home Affairs also WHAT ARE THE CONDITIONS has conditions that must be met in your FOR FAMILY ENTRY? home country before an Australia Awards Visits for six months or less – a visitor visa is Scholarship student dependant’s visa appropriate for a family member who has met is issued: all requirements set by the Department of Home Affairs. Overseas Student Health Cover – proof of the relationship to the student (OSHC) does not cover family members in i.e. marriage certificate or Australia on a visitor visa. birth certificates – Australia Awards approval for issuing Australia Awards Scholarships students note: a visitor visa cannot be changed to an of the visa Australia Awards Scholarships student’s – completion of personal dependant visa after arrival in Australia. health clearances Visits longer than six months – student – completion of character dependant visas are issued to family reference checks members who stay for more than six – evidence of sufficient funds to cover the months. Awardees must refer to the costs of your family travelling to and living information on visa requirements for in Australia while you study dependent family members at the – evidence that you have arranged OSHC Department of Home Affairs official website: cover for your family members immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/ It is important that your family does not leave The admission of spouse and children for home until all the entry requirements are met more than six months is subject to the and a visa has been issued. following Australia Awards Scholarships conditions: Please note: Siblings or parents of sponsored students are not eligible for dependant visas – the student must have an award for one under the Department of Home Affairs rules. academic year (approximately 10 months) or more AND there must be at least six months of the award remaining – where the spouse will not be available to care for the children, suitable childcare arrangements must be made such as Still have questions? day care, and for school-aged children, CONTACT OUR TEAM: care after hours, on weekends and school Tel: (+ 61 2) 9514 1767 holidays and at times of illness. Email: sponsored.student@uts. edu.au
37 University of Technology Sydney FAQs
Photos: Kwa Nguyen
For study abroad and exchange students You are a study abroad student if you are studying for one or two sessions at UTS, your studies are being credited to your home university and you are paying tuition fees to UTS. You are an exchange student if you are studying for one or two sessions at UTS, your studies are being credited to your home university and you are paying tuition fees to your home university, not UTS. CAN I ENROL IN BOTH UNDERGRADUATE AND POSTGRADUATE SUBJECTS? As a postgraduate student, with faculty permission, you may enrol in some undergraduate subjects. Check with your home university first to see if the subject(s) you want to undertake are suitable. Undergraduate students may not enrol in postgraduate subjects. DO I NEED TO ATTEND AN ENROLMENT SESSION? WHAT IS THE GRADING As a study abroad or exchange student, SYSTEM AT UTS? you should already have enrolled online; There is a range of different marking therefore you do not need to attend an on- schemes at UTS depending on what subjects campus enrolment session in person. you enrol in. These include: AM I ENROLLED CORRECTLY? – grade (ranging between fail and high You will receive access to enrol yourself distinction) and a percentage mark in subjects before you arrive at UTS. You – grade only (no percentage mark) should have received a pre-arrival email – pass/fail with no grade or from the study abroad and exchange percentage mark team directing you to our study abroad pre-arrival webpage, which provides The marking scheme for your subjects can information about web enrolment. If you be found in the individual subject outline are not enrolled correctly, refer to the that you receive at the start of each teaching website below and follow the steps in session. If you are in doubt, check with your the ‘Before you arrive at UTS’ section, or subject lecturer. contact the Study Abroad and Exchange uts.edu.au/current-students/managing- team. studyabroad-exchange.uts.edu.au your-course
38 FAQS
CAN I GET A TRAVEL CONCESSION? DO I NEED A UTS STUDENT CARD? As a study abroad and exchange student, All enrolled students must have a current you are not entitled to travel concessions on UTS student identity card, which will be public transport in New South Wales. You may issued during Orientation. Your student still be entitled to a student concession at identity card: cinemas and theatres or other entertainment activities. You usually just need to show your – must be carried at all times while on UTS student card to obtain a discount. university premises – may be required to be produced on WHEN DO I NEED TO PAY MY TUITION demand by an employee of the university FEES? (STUDY ABROAD ONLY) – must be presented when borrowing You will need to settle all outstanding fees books from the UTS Library, accessing before classes commence. You can request the computer labs and to gain entry to your tax invoice through MyStudentAdmin examination rooms. and the fees office will send you a reminder of remaining outstanding fees at the census date. Note that changes to your enrolment and the total credit point value will change the amount of tuition fees you owe. Please contact the UTS International Study Abroad and Exchange team if you need further information. HOW DO I GET MY RESULTS AND TRANSCRIPT? Your official results will be released on My Student Admin: onestopadmin.uts.edu.au You will be able to print an unofficial copy of your assessment results from here. Two copies of the official academic transcript will be sent to your home country address (study abroad) or home university (exchange) unless your university has elected to receive a digital copy. If this is the case, you will need to log in to myequals and share your transcript as a link with them. Still have questions? Study abroad students should check their CONTACT OUR TEAM: home address is correct on My Student Tel: (+ 61 2) 9514 7915 Admin. You can also request additional copies of your transcript via My Student Admin. Find Email: studyabroad.exchange out how here: uts.edu.au/current-students/ @uts.edu.au managing-your-course/your-student- Website: studyabroad-exchange. info/student-records/academic-record uts.edu.au There is a charge for additional copies.
39 University of Technology Sydney Emergency contact information
ON CAMPUS OFF CAMPUS Security – dial 6 from a campus phone Dial 000 for Police / Ambulance / Fire Brigade or 1800 249 559 uts.edu.au/current-students/contacts/ emergency-contacts General UTS security enquiries – security patrols our campus at all times. Community Mental Health Team Dial (+61 2) 9514 1192 if you need general assistance. 1800 636 825 – free call for your nearest team A regular security shuttle bus service for 24 hour telephone counselling students and staff operates between our Lifeline 13 11 14 campus and our residences 7 nights a week from February to December. Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636 UTS also operates an after-hours security FOR MORE INFORMATION, escort service for all staff and students to a VISIT THE SAFE@UTS WEBSITE: UTS Building or a UTS residence and Central uts.edu.au/about/maps-and-facilities/ Railway Station. Contact the UTS Security safety-and-security Control Room on (+61 2) 9514 1192, 7 nights a week. Report accidents, incidents and hazards by calling 1800 249 559 (security) or report to a staff member safetyandwellbeing.uts.edu.au
40 Photos: Shane Lo Emergency contacts
Enjoy your time at UTS and in Sydney!
Photo: Florian Groehn Contact UTS
UTS INTERNATIONAL FOLLOW US (+61 2) 9514 1531 UTS International Students [email protected]
[email protected] UTSint #utsint [email protected] international.uts.edu.au UTSchannel
UTSI
UTSinternational
UTS-Official
Covid-19 advice To find out how UTS is supporting our students and the UTS community, UTS CRICOS 00099F 23506 July 2020 please visit: Image credit: Anna Zhu, Annabel Jeffery, uts.edu.au/current-students/ Destination NSW, Florian Groehn, Kwa Nguyen, Shane Lo, UTS Housing. news/coronavirus-and- international-travel-information Thank you to all our international students who feature in this guide.