INTERNATIONAL STUDENT GUIDE 2017
www.international.uts.edu.au WELCOME TO UTS
YOUR INTERNATIONAL UTS offers a wide range of academic, social STUDENT GUIDE and cultural opportunities to help you make the most of your time at UTS and in Sydney. There Welcome to UTS, Australia’s top young are numerous extra-curricular programs and university. UTS is a diverse and vibrant groups you can join to enhance your learning university in the heart of Sydney where experience. Consider joining our leadership and you’ll learn, be challenged, enjoy new development program, BUiLD, for example, which offers leadership and overseas travel experiences and make friends for life. opportunities, or perhaps consider joining You’re joining a diverse student body of around SOUL, one of UTS’s volunteering programs. 42,675 students from 120 different countries, Take advantage of the support services available, including Australia. Each year, we welcome including HELPS academic and English-language around 4300 new international students from support and U:PASS – as well as many others, around the world who bring a unique cultural and most of which are free. linguistic diversity to our vibrant student body. I hope that your experience at UTS will be With the help of our friendly Peer Networkers, engaging, challenging and rewarding. Remember, we look forward to making you feel at home and UTS International staff are here to advise and helping you to establish lasting connections at support you at any time. UTS and in Sydney. I look forward to seeing you around campus. As a UTS student, you’re joining a community of pioneering thinkers and change-makers. You’ll develop your practical skills and academic knowledge through hands-on learning that challenges you to think critically and learn Professor William R Purcell actively. Our signature approach to learning has Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Vice-President placed us amongst the world’s top 10 young (International and Advancement) universities according to the QS Top 50 Under 50 and Times Higher Education’s Top 100 Under 50 rankings 2016. I welcome you to our innovative campus of the future. Our state-of-the-art facilities emphasise collaborative learning with flexible study spaces that encourage student, staff and community interaction. Your learning will be supported by technology such as smart boards, interactive pods and the latest equipment specific to your discipline. We hope our facilities will help you succeed in your academic, professional and social pursuits. CONTENTS CAMPUS FINDING YOUR WAY STARTING AT UTS ANDSECURITY SAFETY FEELING AT HOME BANKING AND GETTING CONNECTED GETTING AROUND FINDING APLACE ARRIVING AT UTS EMERGENCY CONTACT INFORMATION FAQs YOUR STUDENTVISA MANAGING YOUR COURSE BEYOND THECLASSROOM WE’RE HERETO HELP MAP 17 15 13 11 39 31 29 27 25 21 19 9 5 3 1
WELCOME TO UTS ARRIVING AT UTS
As a new international student at UTS, you probably have lots of questions about the university and living in Sydney. This guide is designed to answer some of your questions about settling in and making the most of your time. Connect with other students, and ask them about their experiences. Take advantage of the numerous support services at UTS, many of which are free. Don’t be afraid to ask for help! UTS International is your one-stop-shop to ask questions and help address any issues you may be having. Visit us on level 3a of the Tower Building. “I encourage all future UTS www.international.uts.edu.au International students to embrace [email protected] 9514 1796 or 9514 9914* and invest in the time that you have here. Make the most of what UTS * Haven’t bought an Australian SIM card yet? Add provides for you in terms of faculty +61 (country code for Australia) + (0)2 (state code and facilities, and craft your own for NSW) in front of these phone numbers to reach us. memories to relish.” Monica George, India Master of Engineering (Management) and Master of Business Administration
1 2 ARRIVING AT UTS FINDING A PLACE
Arranging accommodation early is OFF-CAMPUS essential so you can quickly feel at ACCOMMODATION home in Sydney. Here are some tips to Private rentals are generally managed by real get you started. estate agents, while shared accommodation is either managed by individual providers or private ACCOMMODATION student accommodation providers. Australia The UTS Housing Service manages the has laws to protect both landlords and tenants. University’s student accommodation. Five Providers have an obligation to ensure that the residences are available to UTS students, and all property is maintained and liveable for you as are on or close to campus. a tenant. The UTS Housing Service can assist you with your Sydney’s rental market is extremely competitive. application to live in a UTS residence or with your Do your research before you set out to look at accommodation search, from recommending properties. If you like a place, be prepared to make temporary places to stay, to longer-term an offer for it on the day. residences. They also provide information on your Visit the off-campus accommodation page of the rights as a tenant or lodger. website for information on how to find a place to www.housing.uts.edu.au live off-campus, share accommodation and other [email protected] accommodation options. www.housing.uts.edu.au ACCOMMODATION HELP STAND & INFO SESSIONS Visit the Office of Fair Trading website for During Orientation, attend the accommodation information on your rights renting a property info session to learn about your rights as a tenant/ in NSW. lodger within New South Wales (NSW). You will www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au receive various accommodation listings and it can also help you decide where you want to live. If you LOOKING FOR A PLACE need more support, drop by the accommodation Suburbs close to the UTS campus include: information pop-up stand located in Building 1, Pyrmont, Ultimo, Haymarket, Chippendale, level 4 where you can receive information specific Newtown, Glebe, Surry Hills or the City. Close to your situation and needs. to the beach: Bondi, Bronte, Randwick or Coogee. Some students prefer inner city suburbs OFF-CAMPUS PRIVATE accessible by bus or train: Redfern, Camperdown, STUDENT HOUSING Marrickville, Summer Hill or Petersham. UTS has negotiated discounted rates at nearby These websites will help you find off-campus privately run student accommodation. Check the accommodation: off-campus accommodation page of the UTS www.uts.studystays.com.au website for details. www.realestate.com.au www.uts.studystays.com.au www.domain.com.au
3 FINDING A PLACE A FINDING
TIP: You often require an Australian bank IMPORTANT CONSIDERATIONS account before you can sign your contract. On Properties in Australia are usually rented out page 9 we’ll explain how to open an account. unfurnished, so you will need to buy your own furniture and bedding. Stores like Kmart and Generally, rental prices become cheaper the Target, Asian grocery stores, second-hand stores further from the centre of Sydney you live. Check like The Salvos or Vinnies and websites like the the availability and regularity of public transport as Trading Post and Gumtree are useful for finding this can vary greatly from location to location. inexpensive furniture and household items. Also remember that rental prices usually don’t include SHARED ACCOMMODATION bills/amenities such as gas or electricity. Many students live in shared accommodation, in a house or apartment that is usually furnished. FIRE SAFETY It’s a great way to meet people and share living Since 2006, smoke alarms have been mandatory expenses. Shared accommodation is usually an in NSW in all homes and other shared informal arrangement between the occupants of a accommodation buildings where people sleep. property and the lease holders/landlord, therefore Your landlord is responsible for installing smoke there is unlikely to be an agreement with your alarms in your rented premises. As a tenant, you name on it. Make sure you feel comfortable with will be responsible for replacing the battery if and can trust the people you are living with, and needed; however, neither you nor your landlord have a good understanding of the circumstances are permitted to remove or tamper with the of the living situation. Remember to request smoke alarm’s operation. a written agreement or residential Tenancy More information: Agreement and detailed receipts for all www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au/ftw/Tenants_and_ payments, including the bond payment, to home_owners/Being_a_landlord/Starting_a_ avoid problems later. tenancy/Safety_and_security.page www.housing.uts.edu.au UPDATE YOUR ADDRESS Remember to update your address with UTS as soon as you arrive in Australia. Update it again whenever you move. It is a requirement of your student visa that you update your address within seven days of any move.
4 GETTING AROUND
Sydney has a good public transport PUBLIC TRANSPORT system, with buses, trains and light rail For general information on public transport in services running frequently to UTS. Sydney, call 131500 or go to: www.transportnsw.info BUYING TICKETS You will need an Opal card to travel on most public transport in the Sydney metropolitan area and surrounding regions. The Opal card is a smartcard that you keep and reuse. You can either load money onto it each time it is running low, or set up auto top up online. Just remember to tap on at the beginning of your trip, and tap off at the end. You can buy an Opal card at selected train and light rail stations, ferry wharves and convenience stores. You can also purchase Opal single bus tickets from the driver on board on some bus services (excluding PrePay bus routes). Note: As an international student in Sydney you must purchase an Adult Opal card. You are not entitled to a Concession card. www.opal.com.au BUSES Sydney’s bus network extends to most suburbs. Many buses are pre-pay only, which means you need to buy a ticket before you board. Read above for which ticket to buy. For timetable and ticket information, go to: www.sydneybuses.info Note: Over the next few years, considerable construction work will be taking place along George St to build a new light rail. Road closures have already commenced and station upgrades will take place in the coming years, impacting some bus services. Find more information about the construction works and plans for light rail here: mysydney.nsw.gov.au
5 GETTING AROUND GETTING
Plan your journey to UTS or around Sydney here: LIGHT RAIL (TRAMS) www.transportnsw.info The Metro Light Rail links Central Station with You can also download apps for Sydney public Sydney’s inner western suburbs. The trams, transport, such as TripView for iOS and Android. ending at Dulwich Hill, also stop at Sydney Fish Markets, Darling Harbour and Chinatown. You will TRAINS need your Opal card to ride the light rail. The Sydney rail network is a popular way to travel www.sydneylightrail.transport.nsw.gov.au for many Sydneysiders. For information on train timetables, ticket prices and options, go to: SECURITY SHUTTLE BUS www.sydneytrains.info UTS runs a free shuttle bus service most of the year for all enrolled UTS students. The service FERRIES operates between Broadway, Haymarket, the Dr Many Sydneysiders commute by ferry from beach Chau Chak Wing Building and student residences and harbour-side suburbs to Sydney’s main on weeknights. To download a timetable, visit the ferry terminal at Circular Quay. Sydney ferries UTS website and search ‘campus shuttle bus’. also allow citizens and tourists alike to explore beautiful destinations scattered along Sydney Harbour’s foreshores, including Manly, Taronga Zoo, Luna Park and Darling Harbour. Ferries tend not to be frequent outside of peak periods. www.sydneyferries.info
6 7 CYCLING CAR SHARING Sydney City Council is developing extensive Car sharing is popular in inner Sydney and cycleways, and offers workshops on riding in the means you don’t have to think about car spaces city. Get to know the cycleways in your area so that or maintenance – or buying a car in the first place. you can avoid busy roads where possible. Secure Join a car-share scheme and you will be able to bike parking spots are also located around Sydney. use a car as and when you need to. www.sydneycycleways.net www.goget.com.au UTS offers safe bike parking on campus. Showers www.hertz247.com/Australia GETTING AROUND GETTING and bike racks are available in the Ross Milbourne www.carnextdoor.com.au Sports Hall and in Buildings 4, 5, 8 and 10.
TIP: It is compulsory to wear a bike helmet in Sydney, and you may be issued with a fine if you don’t follow the road rules. Your bike must also have lights for after dark. It’s a good idea to wear reflective clothing, too. DRIVING If you want to drive on the roads of New South Wales (NSW), you can use your existing drivers licence. If you are a permanent resident, Australian or New Zealand citizen, you need to apply for a NSW licence within 3 months upon arrival. The Roads and Maritime Service (RMS) website provides further information. “Sydney’s really amazing – every www.rms.nsw.gov.au/roads/licence/visiting- day you discover something new. nsw.html When I got here, I really felt like You will also need to know the road rules, this was where I was supposed to including laws related to speeding, mobile phone be. There’s always something to do usage, alcohol limits and drug bans. Be aware and places to visit.” that NSW Police conduct Random Breath Tests Sajna Vinod, India (RBT) and Mobile Drug Tests (MBT) on motorists. For information on this, and other important road Master of Human Resource rules, go to: Management www.roadsafety.transport.nsw.gov.au Keep in mind that the cost of owning and running a car in Sydney is high. You may be able to find a cheap vehicle, but registration and insurance (both of which are compulsory), petrol costs and parking are expensive. The Sydney metropolitan area also has many toll roads. You will need to get an e-TAG, as most toll roads no longer accept cash.
8 BANKING AND GETTING CONNECTED
To make your transition to life in TIP: Many banks offer accounts specifically Australia as easy as possible, take care tailored to student needs, with lower fees and of some basics needs, like getting a bank charges. Do some research before opening account and an Australian SIM card. your account, or ask your chosen bank if they have any special deals for students. BANK ACCOUNT Aim to open a bank account within the first few CARD OR CASH weeks of your arrival. You’ll need to show several It is quite common to pay for goods and services forms of identification, including your passport with a card in Sydney, including with contactless and proof of enrolment. Banks are generally payment (PayPass or payWave) for purchases open Monday to Friday, 9.30am to 4pm and some under $100. However it is advisable to still carry branches are open on Saturdays. some cash, as a number of merchants have a Australia’s major banks include: minimum spend for card payments. www.anz.com.au www.bendigobank.com.au STAY CONNECTED www.commbank.com.au To stay in touch with your friends and family in www.nab.com.au Australia and overseas, buy an Australian SIM www.stgeorge.com.au card for your mobile phone. This will save you a lot www.westpac.com.au of money when calling or using data in Australia. Money transfers can take some time, so make Australia’s major providers include: sure you have alternative means of obtaining www.optus.com.au cash in the first few weeks. Overseas telegraphic www.telstra.com.au transfers can take approximately three working www.virginmobile.com.au days to enter your Australian bank account, while www.vodafone.com.au bank drafts can take two or three weeks. Prepaid SIM cards can be bought at news agencies, supermarkets or phone retailers. If you ATMS prefer to get a plan, visit the provider’s website or a Generally, you can use your Australian banking phone retailer. card at any Automatic Teller Machine (ATM) in Australia. You will find ATMs all over Sydney. Avoid transaction fees by using ATMs that belong to your bank network.
9 BANKING AND GETTING CONNECTED GETTING AND BANKING
10 FEELING AT HOME
CULTURE SHOCK AND HOMESICKNESS It is normal to experience some degree of culture shock as you adjust to a new country and culture. You may miss your home, and having your friends and family around you. You might also feel lost, especially when you first arrive. International student advisors are available to help you. Their contact details are on the back of this guide. There are also plenty of ways to meet people and find support. WAYS TO MEET PEOPLE UTS’s Community Connections program is a great way to meet other international and Australian “I get a lot of support from UTS students – and get to know Sydney – through Housing. I think it’s one of my best activities when you first arrive. experiences at UTS. It’s really www.communityconnections.uts.edu.au beautiful staying there. The staff You can also join one of the many cultural and are very friendly, nice people. I’ve sporting clubs at UTS. met so many people from so many www.activateuts.com.au nationalities. So it’s really nice.” Many free support programs such as Network Abdulhakeem Muse-Ariyoh, Nigeria Café are especially designed to welcome and connect international students with local and Master of Engineering and Master of international peers. Business Administration www.uts.edu.au/current-students/campus- life/ways-meet-people Knowing where to shop and being able to find your favourite foods are fantastic first steps CULTURAL NEEDS towards feeling at home in a new city. Sydney UTS has a visiting chaplaincy team with members has a broad range of specialty grocery stores from the Baha’i, Buddhist, Christian, Jewish and and restaurants. Prices vary around the city, but Islamic faiths, among others. Multi-faith rooms once you get to know your way, you’ll get a feel for are available for use by UTS religious groups and where to find a bargain. individuals. If you have religious food requirements, you may choose to bring food from home. The multi-faith room and other areas on campus have areas with refrigerators and microwaves to store and reheat food. www.uts.edu.au/current-students/support/ health-and-wellbeing/multi-faith-chaplaincy
11 SUPERMARKETS AND UTS is located right next to Chinatown, an area full EATING OUT of Chinese shops, supermarkets and restaurants, There are lots of different supermarkets where you but also has Thai, Japanese and Korean shops. can buy groceries. Many supermarkets in Sydney You can often buy imported groceries more are open seven days a week and stay open late. cheaply at these stores, and some homewares are The nearest supermarkets to UTS are Woolworths cheaper too. Sydney has many restaurants and at Central Park, Coles and Aldi at Broadway, and supermarkets which cater to a halal diet. A useful IGA at Market City. guide is:
www.halalsquare.com.au HOME AT FEELING ALDI: www.aldi.com.au Coles: www.coles.com.au This website will also help you find your local IGA: www.iga.com.au mosque, or mosques throughout Australia, if you Woolworths: www.woolworths.com.au are travelling. Sydney is a very multicultural city and you can Sydney’s Jewish population has traditionally been find food to suit your religious and cultural largest in the eastern suburbs such as Bondi requirements, as well as any kind of food you and Randwick. Here you will find some kosher happen to like. UTS has its own food court on level restaurants. You can also buy kosher food in 3 of the Tower Building, with food from different ordinary supermarkets. The website below lists regions of the world. There are several websites kosher food available in Australia. that list restaurants by locality and speciality, as www.ka.org.au well as giving price ranges. www.zomato.com/sydney EATING WITH FRIENDS www.broadsheet.com.au/sydney Generally if you go to a restaurant or café, you will www.bestrestaurants.com.au be expected to pay for yourself, and the bill may be split between those attending. If you are invited to someone’s house, it’s common to take a small contribution such as a bottle of wine or a small box of chocolates.
12 SAFETY AND SECURITY
Sydney is a fairly safe city; however, At the beach, always swim between the red and as with any big city, you need to take yellow flags and with people you know. Never swim care of yourself, and be aware of your at an unpatrolled beach or at night. Remember to wear sunscreen! Familiarise yourself with more surroundings. water safety tips at: WHEN OUT AND ABOUT www.beachsafe.org.au >> If possible travel in a group. Bushwalking is a great way to explore Sydney’s >> Keep valuables such as mobile phones and beautiful surrounds. When you set off on a laptops out of sight. bushwalk make sure you take a map, plenty of water, wet weather gear, warm clothes and a >> At quiet times and at night, try to travel in a train phone. Walk with friends and take an emergency carriage with other passengers or sit next to the beacon, available from camping stores. Always guard’s compartment marked with a blue light. inform someone of where you are going and when >> Check timetables in advance. Avoid long waits you intend to be back. on platforms and around transport hubs. Wait www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/safety/ in well-lit areas or near open shops. bushwalking-safety >> Walk in well-lit areas even if it means your trip In Australia, it’s illegal to have more than a small is longer. amount of alcohol before driving. Don’t drink and >> If you feel threatened in any way, go to an drive or get into a car with a driver who has been occupied shop or house and ask to contact drinking. Share a taxi home instead. To learn more police. about blood alcohol and drug limits for drivers, visit: www.police.nsw.gov.au/community_issues/ www.rms.nsw.gov.au crime_prevention/personal_safety It’s important to be fire safety aware at home. OFF CAMPUS SAFETY TIPS Being prepared is the key. Have a look at the Home Fire Safety info: While you make the most of your time in Sydney, trying new activities and experiences, it’s www.fire.nsw.gov.au important to keep these safety tips in mind. Check out the information about smoke alarms on Sydney is home to many beautiful beaches, rivers page 7 of this guide. and lakes. If you go fishing or swimming, it’s essential that you have basic water safety skills. Potential dangers can be difficult to spot and conditions can change quickly, even in water that looks calm.
13 SAFETY AND SECURITYSAFETY AND
SAFETY AND WELLBEING INFO >> General UTS security enquiries 9514 1192 ON AND OFF CAMPUS >> Evening shuttle buses Safe@UTS – UTS has 24-hour security staff -- Campus to Student Housing patrolling the campus. To contact Security, dial 6 www.uts.edu.au/about/maps-and-facilities/ from any campus phone (there are some in the safety-and-security common areas too) or 1800 249 559 from any phone to contact Security. Save this number to >> Report all accidents, incidents and hazards to a your mobile phone. staff member or security by calling 9514 1056 We want you to feel safe and at home on campus, www.safetyandwellbeing.uts.edu.au so ask for help at any time if you feel unsafe or >> Off-campus call Police/Ambulance/Fire 000 unsure of your surroundings. Carry the Safe@ >> Community mental health UTS card with you, which you can pick up from the Free call 1800 636 825 for your nearest team International Student Centre. >> Telephone counselling 24 hours www.safetyandwellbeing.uts.edu.au Lifeline 13 11 14 Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636 Webchat or email counselling www.lifeline.org.au www.beyondblue.org.au
14 STARTING AT UTS
Before your classes start, take the time to get to know the Uni and the people who are here to help. UTS International is the main contact point for all international students at UTS. We provide friendly advice, assistance and guidance including information about courses, supporting documentation for student visas and the coordination of Australian government scholarships, and Study Abroad and Exchange programs. You can direct any query to a student advisor Contact UTS International if you have questions or study abroad and exchange officer at UTS regarding: International. If we are unable to assist, we’ll refer >> visa renewal/extension and visa conditions you to the relevant faculty or unit. >> Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) You can drop in to speak face-to-face with a UTS International student advisor without making an >> changing your education provider appointment. >> reducing your study load Drop-in times during each session are: >> student documentation required for: > Monday, Wednesday and Thursday, 2pm to 4pm -- verifying your status as an international > Tuesday and Friday, 10am to 12pm student at UTS Student advisors can be contacted by phone or by -- changing your student visa to a visitor visa to email, including outside of session time on stay for your graduation ceremony 9514 1796 or 9514 9914 or at -- working in Australia [email protected]. -- taxation purposes If the matter is urgent, call 9514 1531. -- banks e.g. securing foreign currency Study abroad and exchange advisors can be To receive any of the documentation listed above, contacted on 9514 7915 or at you need to complete a request form at UTS [email protected] International. Please allow a minimum of three working days for your request to be processed. OFFICIAL UTS COMMUNICATION During busy periods, it may take us longer to fulfil It is important that official communication from your request. UTS can reach you, so keep us up to date with your Student documentation letters are issued free current address and mobile number. It is also a of charge and will only be processed if you have condition of your student visa that you notify UTS no fees outstanding, your student status is of your current residential address within seven satisfactory and you have provided all additional days of: requested information. > arriving in Australia > changing your address
15 Even if you’re living in short-term accommodation such as a hostel, you need to let us know where you’re staying, and update us when you move. UTS does not accept responsibility if official communications fail to reach you because you have not given notice of a change of address. After you have enrolled, you can notify UTS of your residential address online by logging in to MyStudentAdmin using your student number and UTS AT STARTING password. onestopadmin.uts.edu.au/estudent UTS email accounts are one of the official ways the university communicates with staff and students on news, events and important information concerning study and university “UTS offers a lot of support for new life, so make sure you check your UTS email students, like accommodation account regularly. services, health services and peer UTSOnline is a tool used by students and networks, so you are not alone.” academics for sharing, storing and accessing Leonardus Monggal, Indonesia subject materials. This is where your subject outline and preparation exercises will be available Master of Urban Planning for all of your enrolled subjects. You must check your UTSOnline account regularly. online.uts.edu.au
STUDENT CENTRES FIND YOUR The UTS Student Centres can help with: STUDENT CENTRE AT: >> subject and course information Building 10, Level 2 >> study plan, enrolment and class allocation Monday - Friday: 9am-5pm enquiries First two weeks of Autumn/Spring sessions: >> progression and academic caution 8:30am-6pm >> exam-related and academic progress Building 5 – Haymarket Block C, Level 1 applications Monday - Friday: 9am-5pm >> leave of Absence and concurrent study First two weeks of Autumn/Spring sessions: applications 8:30am-6pm >> recognition of prior learning and subject substitution applications STUDENT CENTRE ENQUIRIES Submit online enquiries and eRequests to your >> graduation matters Student Centre via http://ask.uts.edu.au/ 1300 ASK UTS (1300 275 887)
16 FINDING YOUR WAY
The orientation weeks at UTS are SERVICES AND FACILITIES designed to help you make the most of As a student at UTS you have access to a your student experience. comprehensive range of facilities, services and resources designed to meet your changing ORIENTATION computing and communication requirements. During Orientation, you will learn about the This includes a student email account and University and its academic and support services. calendar with 10GB storage, access to more It’s also a great opportunity to find your way than 1300 computers in 40 locations on campus around, and meet other students and staff. with some open 24 hours a day during the main At Orientation, you will see Peer Networkers in teaching sessions, access to the UTS wireless/ orange t-shirts. They are local and international WPA network (free to UTS students) and a laptop students who volunteer their time to help out new loan scheme. To learn more about the services students. Don’t be afraid to ask them for help! and facilities available, visit All international students must attend the www.itd.uts.edu.au Essential International Advice session as part of If you require assistance with general access Orientation. Here, you’ll receive all of the important computing labs, internet kiosks or computer information you need as an international student lounges or information on Mac, PC or Unix at UTS and meet the student advisors. facilities, search the Service Desk Knowledge It’s a good idea to attend an introductory library Base to find the solution or contact the IT session during Orientation, too. These training Support Centre. sessions will assist you in finding, using and Off campus: 9514 2222 organising information. On campus: dial 2222 www.orientation.uts.edu.au servicedesk.uts.edu.au During these weeks, you will need to work on (student number and password required) and participate in certain activities related to your course, prior to the start of formal classes. IT SUPPORT CENTRE You should have received a pre-departure email Broadway Building 10, Student Centre from UTS International with information on how Haymarket, Building 5 to register for Orientation and for your subjects. If Block C, Level 1, Room 41 you didn’t receive it, contact UTS International at [email protected] It’s essential that you follow this information and enrol correctly before the main teaching session starts. Please see the relevant FAQs section at the back of this guide for further information.
17 LIBRARY Renting or using second-hand text books can be The UTS Library offers: more affordable and sustainable. >> printed and audio visual materials www.uts.edu.au/partners-and-community/ initiatives/uts-green >> full-text journals, audio books and e-books The Co-op Bookshop has a wide range of books, >> practice presentation and group discussion including textbooks. It also stocks calculators, rooms stationery and computer software. Join the Co-op >> silent study areas Bookshop to shop online, and receive lifetime
>> printed and online user guides discounts on purchases, including Apple products. WAY YOUR FINDING The Library website offers 24-hour global www.coop.com.au access to the catalogue and international databases. Library computers are installed with Chinese, Korean and Japanese software. There are librarians dedicated to assisting international students, so make sure you ask if you have any questions. You can also book group study rooms around the campus through the UTS Library website. www.lib.uts.edu.au
18 CAMPUS MAP ULTIMO PH01 POWERHOUSE MUSEUM
WENTWORTH Macarthur St Find your way around campus with this useful PARK map. You will also find addresses, campus tours DARLING HARBOUR e Ln and maps, including interactive maps, at: ett St att l Jones St McKee St W www.maps.uts.edu.au Hac k
You’ll also find important information about Kelly St CHINATOWN facilities and access, as well as where you can MARY ANN STREET PARK 91 park your bike!
Mary Ann St Darling Dr FIND YOUR WAY 08 15 H AROUND CAMPUS A 05 Y TAFE TAFE When trying to locate a room or facility at UTS, M Harris St
Omnibus Lane A
the campus comes first: R
K ain St BROADWAY E CB = City Broadway SHOPPING Ultimo Rd T CENTRE Mount Thomas St The building comes next, then the floor level, 10 07 01 followed by the room number. ABC 04B So CB1.26.17 = Broadway campus, Building 1, e St
04 Quay St level 26, room 17. ALUMNI att l GREEN W The Goods Line 11 06 PARRAMA 02 TTA RD 03
VICTORIA Y PARK E 09 N D 5 MinuGEORGEt eST Walk Y CAMPUS MAP - LEGEND C S H 18 I Buckland St P 22 BRO Harris St Bus Escalator P 25 ADW E AY N ombie St Bike Parking r Train c D Pitt St A Lights/Crossing Parking L Aber E Blackf Devonshire ria St Tunnel BELMORE rs S Student Housing t CENTRAL P NPARK ARK RAILWAY Childcare SQUARE
on St Lee St Accessible Route CENTRAL STATION
Recommended Route Kensingt Pedestrian Walkway Under Construction
5 Minute Walk CAMPUS MAP - LEGEND Regent St
Bus Escalator Train Bike Parking
Lights/Crossing Parking 19 Student Housing N Childcare Accessible Route Recommended Route Pedestrian Walkway Under Construction ULTIMO PH01 POWERHOUSE MUSEUM
WENTWORTH CAMPUS MAP CAMPUS PARK Macarthur St
DARLING HARBOUR e Ln ett St att l Jones St McKee St W Hac k
Kelly St CHINATOWN MARY ANN STREET PARK 91
Mary Ann St Darling Dr 08 15 H A 05 Y TAFE TAFE M Harris St
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K ain St BROADWAY E SHOPPING Ultimo Rd T CENTRE Mount Thomas St
10 07 01 ABC 04B e St
04 Quay St ALUMNI att l GREEN W The Goods Line 11 06 PARRAMA 02 TTA RD 03
VICTORIA Y PARK E 09 N D GEORGE ST Y C S H 18 I Buckland St P 22 BRO Harris St P 25 ADW E AY N ombie St D cr Pitt St A L Aber E Blackf Devonshire ria St Tunnel BELMORE rs S t CENTRAL P PARK ARK RAILWAY SQUARE
on St Lee St CENTRAL STATION
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Regent St
20 WE’RE HERE TO HELP
UTS offers a range of support services for CAREERS students, many of which are free. The UTS Careers Service is dedicated to getting You can make an appointment with a doctor, get you work-ready! Whether you’re looking for assistance with assignments and English, seek an internship, part-time role, graduate job or help to find a part-time job, or get career advice. something in between, the UTS Careers Service provides free career advice and workshops to help MEDICAL AND you with every stage of your job search, including COUNSELLING SERVICES resume writing, networking tips and interview The UTS Medical Service on campus provides skills. Dedicated faculty career consultants can friendly and confidential medical services to all provide specialist advice to international students UTS students, staff and the general public. You looking for work within their future industry. can request a male or female doctor if you wish. If your job search seems overwhelming, give Show your Medibank Private membership card yourself a head start with the UTS Accomplish for free treatment for most consultations. If Award. The Award is designed to develop you’ve forgotten your card or are with a different essential skills to ensure success in the graduate Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) provider, recruitment process and the Australian workforce. you can pay for the visit and make an online All international students are encouraged to join. claim afterwards. If you’re looking for ways to integrate careers If you choose to visit one of the many medical with your studies, UTS Careers offers career centres around Sydney, you will need to pay at the development subjects, which may be taken as time of your consultation and then lodge an online electives with course credit in some degrees. claim with Medibank or your OSHC provider. Talk to a careers counsellor for more information. The UTS counselling service is free and www.careers.uts.edu.au confidential. Qualified psychologists and social Gain work experience, build your skills, and earn workers can assist you with personal, relationship, some money while you study! psychological, study and administrative difficulties, including applications for special consideration. Jump onto CareerHub and get access to hundreds Choose from individual counselling, group of work and internship opportunities, from a huge programs, workshops and referrals. variety of employers. Regardless of what you’re studying, register on CareerHub today and see www.uts.edu.au/current-students/support where your studies could take you! www.careerhub.uts.edu.au You can also look for jobs on: www.oneshift.com.au www.seek.com.au www.adzuna.com.au www.careerone.com.au
21 FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE Make an appointment to receive confidential advice about practical and financial aspects of your life, including: >> budgeting to make the most of your current income >> ideas on how to save money >> advice on making large purchases such as computers WE’RE HERE TO HELP TO HERE WE’RE www.uts.edu.au/current-students/support STUDENTS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS UTS is committed to providing equal opportunity “Before I started my course, I took a for students with special needs through an few workshops at HELPS. It really inclusive educational environment. This includes helped by introducing us to the students with a wide range of temporary and Australian academic writing style.” permanent disabilities, including physical, sensory, psychiatric and learning disabilities, as well as Ahmad Rafi, Indonesia ongoing illnesses. Supporting documentation of your disability is required if you wish to apply for Master of Science in Environmental alternative assessments during teaching sessions Change and Management or special conditions in examinations. www.uts.edu.au/current-students/support CONVERSATIONS@UTS Conversations@UTS are free sessions that HELPS (ENGLISH LANGUAGE allow you to practise effective ways of speaking SUPPORT) in social and professional environments. Join The Higher Education Language & Presentation UTS staff and alumni volunteers in relaxed, Support (HELPS) service at UTS offers free friendly and supportive conversations! Search workshops throughout the main teaching ‘conversations’ on the UTS website for upcoming sessions on academic writing, speaking and conversation sessions. presentation skills. www.helps.uts.edu.au Drop in any time during the day to talk with the team. U:PASS www.helps.uts.edu.au UTS Peer Assisted Study Success (U:PASS) is a free program designed to assist you in subjects If you are from a non-English speaking that are perceived as difficult or historically have background, you may be eligible to apply for a high failure rate. U:PASS leaders are trained special exam conditions, including extra time and senior students who have successfully completed use of a dictionary. Ask your Student Centre for these subjects. They lead study sessions to more details. improve student learning and development in the targeted subjects. www.uts.edu.au/current-students/support/ upass
22 EQUITY AND DIVERSITY UTS is committed to ensuring the elimination of discrimination and harassment in employment, education and service delivery on the grounds of sex, race, colour, descent, national or ethnic origin, ethno-religious background, marital status and sexual orientation. If you have an equity- related query or complaint, contact the Equity and Diversity Unit for a confidential appointment. www.equity.uts.edu.au STUDENT OMBUD The Student Ombuds’ Office is an informal confidential and impartial service that assists students with problems they may encounter with UTS processes and procedures. If you feel unfairly treated by the university or if you find yourself in a disagreement with an individual, office or department within the university, you can seek assistance from the Student Ombud. www.ombuds.uts.edu.au STUDENTS’ ASSOCIATION The Students’ Association is the officially recognised voice of UTS students. It represents UTS students on an individual, university and government level. The Students’ Association also has an Overseas Student Officer who represents the interests of international students at UTS. www.sa.uts.edu.au BLUEBIRD BREKKIE BAR The UTS Students’ Association offers the award- winning Bluebird Brekkie Bar, a sustainable pop- up breakfast spot where you can meet friends for a free breakfast including muesli, natural yoghurt, bread, fresh fruit, and fair-trade tea and coffee. Tuesdays 8.30am-11am, Law Courtyard, Haymarket Wednesdays 8.30am-11am, Level 4, Tower Building Bluebird Brekkie Bar only operates during the Autumn and Spring teaching sessions.
23 CHILDCARE FACILITIES UTS has two childcare centres, one on campus and one close by. Some childcare places at UTS may be subsidised. Childcare centres are also located throughout Sydney, although getting a place can be competitive. www.childcare.uts.edu.au www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au/community/ community-services/children/child-care FIND HELP HELP TO HERE WE’RE Need help with something, but not sure where to go? The following services can help you access the resources you need: >> visa and general administration queries – “Being a Sydneysider has been one UTS International of the best personal experiences in >> legal matters – UTS Student Legal Service my life. The city is full of life, there >> issues relating to unlawful harassment – are awesome sights, lots of outdoor Equity and Diversity Unit activities and the food is incredible.” >> counselling and support – Student Services Unit Cristian Vallejo Carpio, Ecuador >> accommodation issues – UTS Housing Service Master of Engineering >> financial advice – Student Services Unit >> advocacy for students – Students’ Association The UTS Security Service is the first point of contact for all types of emergencies (located at the street level entrance of the Tower building). www.uts.edu.au/current-students/support
24 BEYOND THE CLASSROOM
Getting involved with UTS clubs and societies is a great way to meet new people and experience new things! NETWORK CAFÉ PROGRAM Network Café brings together new students with current ones through short trips, games and sports days, many of which are free. It’s a great way to meet both international and Australian students. Grab a free coffee at the weekly catch- ups, held at Cornerstone Cafe (Level 3, Vicki Sara Building (Building 7)). www.uts.edu.au/current-students/campus- life/ways-meet-people/network-café “In the introduction period I found UTS RESEARCHERS CAFÉ Network Cafe super helpful in If you’re a first-year research student (PhD or Masters), come along to the Towers Café (level regards to meeting new people and 3, Tower Building) the first Wednesday of each bonding with fellow students. I met month to meet other local and international most of my UTS friends through research students over a free coffee. Network Café actually.” www.uts.edu.au/current-students/campus- Nicoline Falcon, Denmark life/ways-meet-people Master of Arts in Communication BEYOND UTS Management – Integrated BUiLD (Beyond UTS International Leadership and Communication Development) is a free international leadership program, open to all UTS students. BUiLD provides you with a range of opportunities, locally volunteering activities such as Clean Up Australia and internationally, which will help you to develop Day at Bondi Beach. your skills, broaden your horizons and build your www.communityconnections.uts.edu.au leadership potential. www.build.uts.edu.au ActivateUTS ActivateUTS organises events throughout the year COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS such as barbecues, band performances, a sport Community Connections encourages local and recreation program, outdoor cinema, trivia and international students to engage with the competitions, Fair Day and Amazing Race. They community of UTS and Sydney, and connect with also provide great places to eat, drink, relax, meet other students on day trips, cultural events and people, see live music and exercise.
25 ActivateUTS has more than 100 clubs covering a range of cultural, political, religious, social and sporting interests. Many international students join cultural societies such as the Chinese, French or Indonesian Societies; sports-based clubs like Tae Kwon Do, Ski and Cricket; and social groups such as the Anime Club and the Electronic Gamers Guild. www.activateuts.com.au EXCHANGE AND STUDY ABROAD CLUB (ESAC) BEYOND THE CLASSROOM THE BEYOND ESAC was started specifically to encourage students from overseas to mix with Australian students through a variety of social activities. Most “ActivateUTS organises an indoor of the committee have been overseas on exchange futsal competition every session themselves. at UTS. It’s one of the best ways www.activateuts.com.au/social/clubs to make friends and interact with SPORT AND FITNESS people from all around the globe. The UTS Fitness Centre offers modern exercise I also got to know about some job equipment and group fitness classes. There is opportunities at the UTS Sports also a multipurpose sports hall on campus. office, through the sports I play.” www.activateuts.com.au Viraaj Mehta, Tanzania Meet other UTS students and settle in to Sydney through the Sports and Recreation program. Bachelor of Engineering, ICT and ActivateUTS organises day trips, holiday Software adventures, short courses and social sporting activities, giving you the opportunity to explore the beauty and excitement of Sydney and Australia. YOUR STUDENT E-NEWSLETTER The student advisors at UTS International send out www.activateuts.com.au two e-newsletters in Autumn and Spring session. Look out for these broadcasts in your inbox as FESTIVALS AND they will remind you about important dates and CULTURAL EVENTS UTS events. Sydney is a global city, with exciting festivals and entertainment throughout the year that celebrate UTS INSIDER its diversity. From fireworks on New Year’s Eve UTS Insider is UTS’s student e-newsletter that and Chinese New Year celebrations, to Mardi Gras, keeps you up to date on studying at UTS, including Vivid and the Sydney Film Festival, many of these social events and activities, academic matters, events are free, or incorporate free activities. You important notices, workshops, campus facilities, can also go on walking tours of the city. giveaways and heaps more. You should receive Visit whatson.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au UTS Insider in your inbox when you commence and sign up for their e-newsletter. studying at UTS.
26 MANAGING YOUR COURSE
You probably have questions about technical or WHAT DO I DO IF I AM FAILING administrative aspects of your course. We’ve A SUBJECT OR COURSE? answered some common ones below, but if you The University has a formal process for identifying have others, visit your UTS student centre or go students at risk of failing, following the release to the ‘Managing your course’ section of the of results at the end of each teaching session. If UTS website. you are identified under this process, you will be www.uts.edu.au/current-students/managing- notified and placed in academic support programs your-course designed to help you improve your academic performance. HOW DO I CHANGE MY SUBJECTS In exceptional circumstances you may be able to AFTER I’VE ENROLLED IN THEM? reduce your study load requirements. Once you’ve obtained permission, you can add or drop pre-approved subjects on My Student Admin: CAN I APPEAL A onestopadmin.uts.edu.au/estudent UNIVERSITY DECISION? Use your UTS student number and password As a UTS student you have the right to appeal to log in. against certain administrative decisions taken by the University or lodge a complaint if you feel you If you want to add subjects that were not already have been treated unfairly by UTS or UTS staff. If approved on your study plan you will need to you are informed that the University intends to submit an e-request at: cancel or suspend your enrolment, you have the https://studentforms.uts.edu.au/evop right to appeal. Your UTS student centre will process your e-request and send you a reply directly. The last day to add a subject is Monday of week two of each teaching session. The last day to withdraw from a subject without academic and financial penalty is the Census date. If you drop subjects after these dates, the subject will appear as a fail on your academic transcript and you will be charged the tuition fee. For a comprehensive guide with important dates highlighted, go to the UTS Handbook and search ‘principal dates’ or ‘academic year dates’. www.handbook.uts.edu.au
27 WHAT IF I HAVE FINANCIAL DIFFICULTIES? If you are having financial difficulties, you can make an appointment with a financial assistance officer to discuss your options. It is important to remember: >> It is a requirement of your student visa that you have sufficient funds to support yourself while in Australia. >> If you encounter financial difficulties, you may be able to arrange a fee payment extension. Lodge a request through askUTS as soon as COURSE YOUR MANAGING possible. You will need to provide supporting documentation. “UTS is a very good university >> If you do not pay your tuition fees by the because they coach you from the due date, your enrolment at UTS may be beginning. They know exactly discontinued. how to help you get through your www.uts.edu.au/current-students/support program. So it’s not all about the HOW DO I WITHDRAW academic side of things, but they FROM MY COURSE? lead you through career paths and Before making a final decision about discontinuing help you with any problems.” your course at UTS, discuss your options with Peter Namak, Vanuatu your UTS student centre, UTS counsellor or UTS International. Master of Science in Internetworking If you still want to withdraw, you can do so online. Once you have withdrawn entirely from your course and you are no longer enrolled, UTS must report this to the Department of Immigration and Border Protection (DIBP) and you may be required to leave Australia. HOW CAN I REQUEST COPIES OF MY TRANSCRIPT? Request additional copies of your academic transcript at your UTS student centre or online. Just complete the application form and allow a minimum of three working days for the UTS student centre to process your request. There is a fee of $30 for three copies.
28 YOUR STUDENT VISA
It is important that you are aware of your student Department of Immigration and Border Protection visa requirements, and how they relate to studying (DIBP). The SSVF is designed to make the process at UTS and living in Sydney. Knowing the answers of applying for a student visa simpler for genuine to the following frequently asked questions will students. help you stay on top of your visa requirements. Students wishing to transfer courses should note that under the SSVF they are expected to WHAT ARE MY RIGHTS AS AN maintain enrolment at the same or higher level of INTERNATIONAL STUDENT? Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) study. As an international student, you have your own You will be required to apply for a new visa if you rights and responsibilities, determined by the wish to transfer to a course that is at a lower conditions of your student visa and by Australian AQF level. government legislation. You must seek your own immigration advice www.uts.edu.au/future-students/international/ on the SSVF and any proposed course and/or essential-information/being-international- provider transfers as this action may impact your student-australia/rights visa, up to and including cancellation. You must For information about student visa conditions, take this important information into account if visit: considering a course change or a possible move www.border.gov.au/Trav/Stud to another provider. UTS does not give visa or immigration advice. CAN I TRANSFER TO Visit the Department of Immigration and ANOTHER INSTITUTION? Border Protection website at Should you decide to leave UTS to pursue your www.border.gov.au studies at another institution within your first six for information on the SSVF, the limits on months of enrolment, you will need to apply for a changing your course/provider and how to meet release letter. the conditions of your student visa. Note: the issuance of a release letter is not For information on AQF, visit guaranteed. Refer to the UTS Release Protocol www.aqf.edu.au/aqf/in-detail/aqf-levels/ (attached to your offer letter, or searchable on the UTS website). To obtain a release letter from WHAT DOES MY OVERSEAS UTS, you must first discuss your proposal with STUDENT HEALTH COVER UTS International staff before you submit a course (OSHC) INCLUDE? withdrawal request and a request for a release OSHC covers general medical appointments and letter to UTS International, accompanied by an emergency medical attention through the public offer letter from your new education provider. health system. It does not include physiotherapy, UTS is an approved participant in the Australian optical or dental care, the cost of admission to a Government’s Simplified Student Visa Framework private hospital, or non-emergency ambulance (SSVF), and recruits students into its degree service. Extra insurance is available to cover these courses under the SSVF arrangements of the possible additional expenses.
29 HOW DO I GET MY OSHC CAN I WORK WHILE I STUDY? MEMBERSHIP CARD? If you hold a student visa, you can work up to If you have arranged Medibank Private OSHC 40 hours a fortnight during the main teaching through UTS, you will receive your membership sessions and unlimited hours during session details at Orientation. breaks. Just remember that you can’t start After you have arrived in Sydney and have working until you have started your UTS course. a confirmed address, you can log on to the If you hold a subclass 574 (Postgraduate research Medibank Private website to indicate where you sector) student visa and you have commenced would like your membership card to be posted. your masters by research or doctorate course in YOUR STUDENT VISA STUDENT YOUR If you have arranged OSHC through a different Australia, you have unlimited work rights. provider, check the relevant website for details. If you have any queries related to work rights, please contact UTS International. The Department HOW DO I RENEW MY OSHC? of Immigration and Border Protection website To renew your Medibank Private OSHC in person, also provides useful information on working: you will need your Medibank membership card, www.border.gov.au/Trav/Stud/More passport and a copy of your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) that confirms you are continuing IF I WORK, your studies at UTS. You can also extend your OSHC membership online with your credit card. DO I HAVE TO PAY TAX? For taxation purposes, international students If you have arranged OSHC through a different are considered residents of Australia, so you will provider, check the relevant website for details. need to pay tax on money that you earn. You need to apply for a Tax File Number (TFN) to ensure TIP: Don’t let your OSHC expire! Remember, you are taxed at the correct rate and the interest as a condition of your student visa, it is you earn on your bank savings is not taxed at the your responsibility to maintain valid OSHC higher marginal rate. throughout your stay in Australia. If you are already in Australia, you can apply for a TFN online. You must have a valid passport or relevant travel documents. Your TFN will be emailed to you within a few weeks. When you receive it, you will need to notify your employer and bank of your number. www.ato.gov.au/individuals/tax-file-number USEFUL WEBSITES Visa application Department of Immigration and Border Protection: www.border.gov.au/Trav/Stud Health cover Department of Health: www.health.gov.au Medibank Private: www.medibank.com.au Australian Taxation Office: www.ato.gov.au
30 FAQs
FOR FULL-AWARD CAN I VARY MY COURSE INTERNATIONAL COURSEWORK DURATION OR STUDY LOAD? STUDENTS Under the Education Services for Overseas You are a full-award international coursework Students (ESOS) legislative framework, you are student if you are studying your full degree at UTS, expected to complete your course by the end and are paying full tuition fees. date specified on your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). Your CoE end date is normally determined HOW DO I ENROL by the standard full-time duration of your course. IN MY COURSE? For example, a UTS Bachelor of Business degree You should have received a pre-departure email should be completed within three years. If you containing your UTS student number and have been granted credit recognition or advanced directing you to Start at UTS standing, your CoE duration may be shorter than the standard full-time duration. http://start.uts.edu.au. To complete your course in the standard duration Here you can register for a specific on-campus you normally need to be enrolled in 48 credit enrolment session or enrol online. This website points over the academic year. It is also a visa will also guide you through the process of requirement to study full-time. This is usually 24 activating your UTS email account. If you attend an credit points in either Autumn or Spring session, on-campus enrolment session, you will need to although certain courses have non-standard loads, take your passport with you for identification. e.g. 18 or 32 credit points.* You will also need to register for a session to In certain limited circumstances you can study obtain your UTS ID card. You must obtain your ID less than the full-time load; however, you must card before the enrolment deadline date and carry obtain prior permission from your faculty and UTS it with you at all times. International to do so. You will then need to submit CAN I APPLY FOR a reduced load form to your UTS student centre. ADVANCED STANDING OR *Summer session is compulsory for Master of CREDIT RECOGNITION? Business Administration in Entrepreneurship students You can apply for exemptions for subjects you completed at another institution; however, it must be similar in content and depth to the subject at UTS. You’ll need to submit an application for Credit Recognition, together with certified copies of the subject outlines from your previous study to your UTS student centre as soon as possible. Your faculty will process your request. www.uts.edu.au/current-students/managing- your-course
31 WHAT IF I NEED TO TAKE TIME CAN I BE EXCLUDED OUT FROM MY STUDIES? FROM MY COURSE? If you want to take temporary leave from your All UTS students are subject to academic progress FAQs course you need to apply for a Leave of Absence requirements. Failure to meet these requirements (LoA). When applying for a LoA, remember: can result in exclusion from your course. UTS >> you can usually apply for up to four teaching is obliged by law to report all excluded students sessions of LoA to the government, which can lead to visa cancellation. >> talk to a student advisor at UTS International before you apply for LoA If you overstay your visa, you can be subject to a three-year exclusion from Australia. To help avoid >> if you take LoA, your CoE may be cancelled and this occurring it’s extremely important that you are you may have to reapply for a new student visa familiar with the academic progress requirements offshore for your course and the relevant rules. >> you are usually required to depart Australia www.uts.edu.au/current-students/managing- during your period of leave your-course/classes-and-assessment/ >> you must contact UTS International for a new academic-progression CoE once you are ready to resume your studies at UTS. Application for leave of absence is made STILL GOT QUESTIONS? online: CONTACT OUR TEAM: www.uts.edu.au/current-students/managing- w: www.international.uts.edu.au your-course e: [email protected] p: 9514 9914 or 9514 1796
32 FAQs
FOR FULL-AWARD FACULTY CONTACTS INTERNATIONAL RESEARCH Faculty specific contacts can also assist you STUDENTS throughout your research candidature at UTS. You are an international research student if you >> Research Administrator (RA) – your first point are studying a PhD or Masters (Research) at UTS, of contact for any queries or problems related and are paying full tuition fees or are on a full directly to your candidature in the faculty scholarship. >> Supervision team – responsible for overseeing your research degree project throughout your HOW DO I ENROL candidature IN MY COURSE? >> Responsible Academic Officer (RAO) – oversees Visit the Graduate Research School (GRS) in all of the faculty’s research students person to enrol in your PhD or Masters (Research). Bring your passport, Confirmation of Enrolment www.uts.edu.au/research-and-teaching/ (CoE) and offer letter. The GRS will enrol you in future-researchers your nominated course and any coursework subjects on your initial study plan. You will receive HOW DO I FIND OUT ABOUT your UTS student ID card after enrolment. SCHOLARSHIPS AND The GRS is the centrally run academic unit and SUPPORT GRANTS? support service for all research degree students at Each year a number of funding opportunities UTS and can: are made available to research students by organisations outside of UTS. Applications must >> assist with managing your candidature be made directly to the scholarship fund. >> provide information on scholarships and You can also apply for academic conference funding scholarships such as the Vice-Chancellor’s >> help with personal development through Postgraduate Research Student Conference Fund, research education programs and workshops available three times a year. >> provide support and administration during your www.uts.edu.au/research-and-teaching/ degree future-researchers/research-degrees-uts/ Once you are formally enrolled as a research research-scholarships student, you will have access to UTS’s intranet, Staff Connect. This site provides information HOW CAN I DEVELOP about scholarships and support grants, MY SKILLS? research development workshops, candidature The GRS offers a range of activities for research management and general information. students and supervisors to develop their knowledge, skills and capabilities, including workshops, online resources and short courses provided by the e-Grad School of the Australian Technology Network of Universities. www.uts.edu.au/research-and-teaching/ future-researchers
33 FAQs
34 FAQs
FOR SPONSORED STUDENTS WHAT HAPPENS IF I AM You are a sponsored student if you are studying FAILING A SUBJECT? your full degree at UTS, and your sponsor, All UTS students need to make satisfactory government or employer has an agreement academic progress. If you fail or are likely to fail a with UTS to pay your tuition fees directly to the subject, you should seek advice from your course university. or subject coordinator as soon as possible and [email protected] notify the International Sponsored Students team. CAN I GET A CAN I VARY MY TRAVEL CONCESSION? STUDY PROGRAM? If you are sponsored by the Australian Government To change your course or major, or apply for a (Australia Awards Scholarships and Endeavour course suspension or extension, apply in writing Awards), you are eligible for concession fares on to the International Sponsored Students team. public trains, buses and ferries in NSW. UTS will Please apply early as all variations require arrange for you to get a Concession Opal Card. approval from your sponsor, which can often take Ask at enrolment how you can apply for your more than a month. Concession Opal Card online. Other sponsored Extension of award will only be considered under students are not eligible for travel concession. exceptional circumstances where an extension is Make sure you carry your UTS student card that the only way you would be able to complete your contains the travel concession with you at all course. Students applying for extension need to times when using public transport. If you have demonstrate the potential to succeed. Please a Concession Opal Card and do not have your be advised variation requests are only approved student card, you may be fined. It’s important that in special circumstances. Australia Awards you don’t order a Concession Opal Card until you Scholarship students will also need to state the have a UTS student card confirming your eligibility reasons for the request, how the change of course for travel concession. or major will benefit your home country and the relationship of the change to your country’s WHAT ARE MY COURSE development. ENROLMENT REQUIREMENTS? Correct enrolment and re-enrolments are your CAN I BRING MY SPOUSE OR responsibility. You must enrol in a full-time load CHILDREN TO AUSTRALIA? each teaching session unless you are in your final You can bring your family with you during your session or your sponsor and/or the International stay in Australia, but make sure you consider the Sponsored Students team has given you written following: permission prior to reducing your study load. >> additional living costs, including rent, food, clothing, medical and other necessities >> cost of airfares for your family to and from Australia, and arranging their visas and health cover, including the cost of arranging any visa or health cover extensions
35 >> employment possibilities for your spouse You can find information for temporary visa >> the effect on you and your studies if your family holders who wish to enrol their children in is not happy in Australia – your family’s needs government schools in NSW at: FAQs may considerably distract you from your studies www.decinternational.nsw.edu.au/study/ >> whether your children will adjust to school schools/temporary-residents in Australia DIBP also has conditions that must be met in >> the cost of schooling children – if you are your home country before an Australia Awards bringing school-aged dependants to Australia, Scholarship student dependant’s visa is issued: you will normally be required to pay full fees if >> proof of the relationship to the student – i.e. they are enrolled in either a government or non- marriage certificate or birth certificates government school. There are other associated >> Australia Awards approval for issuing of the visa costs, such as administrative fees, excursion >> completion of personal health clearances fees, uniform, sports and books. To find out about enrolling your children in school, visit the >> completion of character reference checks NSW Department of Education & Communities >> evidence of sufficient funds to cover the costs of website. your family travelling to and living in Australia www.dec.nsw.gov.au while you study >> evidence that you have arranged OSHC cover for WHAT ARE THE CONDITIONS your family members FOR FAMILY ENTRY? It is important that your family does not leave Visits for six months or less – a visitor visa home until all the entry requirements are met and is appropriate for a family member who has a visa has been issued. met all requirements set by the Department Note: Siblings or parents of sponsored of Immigration and Border Protection (DIBP). students are not eligible for dependant visas Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) does not under DIBP rules. cover family members in Australia on a visitor visa. Australia Awards Scholarship students note: a STILL GOT QUESTIONS? visitor visa cannot be changed to an Australia CONTACT OUR TEAM: Awards Scholarship student’s dependant visa after arrival in Australia. w: www.international.uts.edu.au e: [email protected] Visits longer than six months – student dependant p: 9514 1767 visas are issued to family members who stay for more than six months. The admission of spouse and children for more than six months is subject to the following Australia Awards Scholarship conditions: >> the student must have an award for one 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 day care, and for school-aged children, care after hours, on weekends and school holidays and at times of illness.
36 FAQs
FOR STUDY ABROAD AND CAN I ENROL IN BOTH EXCHANGE STUDENTS UNDERGRADUATE AND You are a study abroad student if you are studying POSTGRADUATE SUBJECTS? for one or two sessions at UTS, your studies are As a postgraduate student, with faculty being credited to your home university and you are permission, you may enrol in some undergraduate paying fees to UTS. subjects. Check with your home university first You are an exchange student if you are studying to see if the subject(s) you want to undertake are for one or two sessions at UTS, your studies are suitable. Undergraduate students may not enrol in being credited to your home university and you are postgraduate subjects. paying fees to your home university, not UTS. [email protected] WHAT IS THE www.studyabroad-exchange.uts.edu.au GRADING SYSTEM AT UTS? There is a range of different marking schemes DO I NEED TO ATTEND AN at UTS depending on what subjects you enrol in. ENROLMENT SESSION? These include: As a study abroad or exchange student, you >> grade (ranging between fail and high distinction) should already have enrolled online; therefore and a percentage mark you do not need to attend an enrolment session >> grade only (no percentage mark) in person. >> pass/fail with no grade or percentage mark AM I ENROLLED CORRECTLY? The marking scheme for your subjects can be You will receive access to enrol yourself in subjects found in the individual subject outline that you before you arrive at UTS. You should have received receive at the start of each teaching session. If you a pre-arrival email from the study abroad and are in doubt, check with your subject lecturer. exchange team directing you to our study abroad www.uts.edu.au/current-students/managing- pre-arrival webpage, which provides information your-course about web enrolment. If you are not enrolled correctly, click on the link below and follow the CAN I GET A steps in the link ‘Before you arrive at UTS’ section, TRAVEL CONCESSION? or contact the study abroad and exchange team. As a study abroad and exchange student, you www.studyabroad-exchange.uts.edu.au are not entitled to travel concessions on public transport in New South Wales. You may still be entitled to a student concession at cinemas and theatres or other entertainment activities. You usually just need to show your UTS student card to obtain a discount.
37 FAQs
WHEN DO I NEED TO Study abroad students should check their home FINALISE MY TUITION FEES? address is correct on My Student Admin. You can (STUDY ABROAD ONLY) also request additional copies via You will need to settle all outstanding fees before www.uts.edu.au/current-students/managing- classes commence. A tax invoice will be included your-course in the information pack you receive at Orientation. There is a charge for additional copies. Please contact the UTS International study abroad team if you need further information. DO I NEED A UTS STUDENT CARD? HOW DO I GET MY RESULTS All enrolled students must have a current UTS AND TRANSCRIPT? student identity card, which will be issued during Your official results will be released on Orientation. Your student identity card: My Student Admin: >> must be carried at all times while on university onestopadmin.uts.edu.au/estudent premises You will be able to print an unofficial copy of your >> may be required to be produced on demand by assessment results from here. an employee of the University Two copies of the official academic transcript >> must be presented when borrowing books from will be sent to your home country address (study the UTS Library, accessing the computer labs abroad) or home university (exchange). and to gain entry to examination rooms.
STILL GOT QUESTIONS? CONTACT OUR TEAM: w: www.studyabroad-exchange.uts.edu.au e: [email protected] p: 9514 7915
38 EMERGENCY CONTACT INFORMATION
ON CAMPUS OFF CAMPUS Security – dial 6 from a campus phone or 1800 Dial 000 for Police / Ambulance / Fire Brigade 249 559 Community Mental Health Team General UTS Security Enquiries – security patrols 1800 636 825 – free call for your nearest team the UTS Campus at all times. Dial 9514 1192 if you 24 hour telephone counselling need general assistance. Lifeline 13 11 14 A regular Security Shuttle Bus Service transports UTS Students and Staff around campus and Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636 to UTS Residences 7 nights a week between February and December. FOR MORE INFORMATION, UTS also operates an after-hours Security Escort VISIT THE SAFE@UTS WEBSITE: service for all Staff and Students to a UTS Building www.uts.edu.au/about/maps-and-facilities/ or a UTS Residence and Central Railway Station. safety-and-security Contact the UTS Security Control Room on 9514 1192, 7 nights a week. Report accidents, incidents and hazards by calling 1800 249 559 (security), or report to a staff member. www.safetyandwellbeing.uts.edu.au
39 EMERGENCY CONTACT INFORMATION CONTACT EMERGENCY
40 CONTACT UTS INTERNATIONAL Tower Building (Building 1), Level 3a w: www.international.uts.edu.au e: [email protected] e: [email protected] e: [email protected] t: 9514 1796 or 9514 9914 f: 9514 1530
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UTS CRICOS PROVIDER CODE: 00099F UTS:MCU /JOB 20572 /FEBRUARY 2017 PHOTOGRAPHY: ANNA ZHU, ANDREW WORSSAM, DESTINATION NSW, ETHAN ROHLOFF, OOH SNAP PHOTOGRAPHY