International Student Guide - University of Technology Sydney
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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
internationalstudent@uts.edu.au 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
studyabroad.exchange@uts.edu.au 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
a wide range of books, including textbooks. It
IT SUPPORT CENTRE
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
5 Minute Walk
CAMPUS MAP - LEGEND
Bus Escalator
Train Bike Parking
Lights/Crossing Parking ULT I MO
Student Housing PH01 N
POWERHOUSE
Childcare MUSEUM
Accessible Route
Preferred path of travel WENTWORTH
Macarthur St
PARK
Pedestrian Walkway
Under Construction DARLING
WP01
Hackett St
HARBOUR
Wattle Ln
McKee St
Jones St
92
81
16
Kelly St
CHINATOWN
MARY ANN
CA02 91
Darling Dr
STREET PARK
Mary Ann St
15
08
Omnibus Lane
HAY
Harris St
05
TAFE TAFE
MAR
n St
Mountai
BROADWAY
KET
SHOPPING Ultimo Rd
CENTRE Thomas St
10 01 72
07 62
ABC
04B 61
Quay St
The Goods Line
CA06
Wattle St
04
ALUMNI
PAR CA03
GREEN
R AMA
TTA
RD 11 06
03
02
NE Y
VICTORIA
PARK
ST
BRO
GE
09
S YD
ADW
OR
St
AY
GE
land
Harris St
CHI
Buck
18
25
e St
PP
22
20
rombi
EN
28 Pitt St
Aberc
27
DA
Black
L
friars
St BELMORE
E
CEN PARK
TRA
L PA
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RAILWAY
CA01
Tu
SQUARE
St
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CENTRAL STATION
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Try the new UTS
UTSAPP mobile map site!
Download the new UTS mobile app site, Scan QR code or visit
wayfinding.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
international.apps@uts.edu.au 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
labs, your faculty, lecture rooms, and more.
Orientation sessions for
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.
8Starting 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
9University 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
housing.service@uts.edu.au
– 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
10Living 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.
fairtrading.nsw.gov.au
Got an Australian
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
housing.service@uts.edu.au
open a bank account.
11University 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
12Living 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
13University 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.
14Living 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
15University 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
16Living 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
jewishaustralia.com
Did you know…
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!
17University 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.
18Support 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 equity@uts.edu.au
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.
19University 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
20Support 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:
Students’ Association
CHILDCARE FACILITIES
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
21University 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
22Support 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
requirements, assessments, due
U:PASS
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
23University 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
24Support 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
25University 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
26Support 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.
27University 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.
28Support 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
you’re taxed at the correct rate and the
MEMBERSHIP CARD?
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
at UTS. You can also extend your OSHC
Useful websites
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.
29You can also read
