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International Students

Preparing for exchange

Overseas semester dates

Semester start and finish dates vary between continents:

  • Australia (UTS)
    • Semester 1: February-June
    • Semester 2: August to November
  • North America
    • Semester 1: January to May
    • Semester 2: August to December
  • Asia
    • Semester 1: April to July
    • Semester 2: October to February
  • Europe (Varies)
    • Semester 1: January to June
    • Semester 2: September to January

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Costs

You will need approximately AUD$10,000 for 1 semester of exchange. The cost of exchange will depend on where you live (larger cities tend to be more expensive), your lifestyle, travel plans and whether you can obtain a scholarship or can work in your host country. Reading the student feedback reports held by Global Exchange and looking at the cost of living link on the host university web site is also essential to plan a budget.

Some countries, including the USA, require you to provide evidence that you are able to support yourself financially when you apply.

While you won't pay tuition fees at your host university, you will still pay your regular tuition fees at UTS. Your host university may require payment for other things like health insurance or a student union membership.

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Health and travel insurance

UTS provides all exchange students with comprehensive health and travel insurance, however, some partner universities may require you to take out additional compulsory insurance. You can find more information about UTS insurance by attending the compulsory pre-departure workshops where you will receive the Insurance Guide, or from the UTS Financial Services.

International Studies students continuing on exchange after In-country Study need to contact UTS Financial Services to find out if they are eligible to be covered by UTS insurance.

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Passport and Visa Information

You must have a valid passport and for some countries a student visa. Your Exchange Officer will notify you when your acceptance from the host university is received. You can then apply for a visa or residence permit if required. Visit the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (opens an external site) to learn more about visas and to find your nearest embassy or consulate.

If you are an international student you may need to be in your home country when applying for a student visa. Contact the embassy or consulate of your host country to find out more.

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Flights

Once you have a valid passport and visa (if required) you can book and pay for your flights. Try to book a flight close, but not too close, to the orientation period.

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Accommodation

To get a feel for where you'll be studying, it's a good idea to organise temporary accommodation that you can stay in for a few days before orientation.

Once the semester starts, your accommodation options will vary depending on where you're studying. Some unis provide on-campus housing in student dorms, while at others you need to find your own. The UTS partner university website and previous student feedback available at the UTS International office provides helpful advice.

Pre-departure Pack Spring 2011

The information in these documents is also provided to the students at the Spring 2011 Pre-departure workshop.