Support for international students | UniSC | University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia

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Support for international students

Studying in Australia

Whether you've recently arrived in Australia to start studying or you've been here for a while, starting uni can be a big adjustment for anyone, particularly if you're away from your family, friends and home culture.

We want to make sure all of our international students feel supported to succeed in their studies and make their time studying in Australia a memorable experience. From pre-arrival and Orientation activities to personal and learning support and referrals to other services, we have you covered.

As well as being able to access the range of free support services on offer to all students, such as learning support and career and employability services, there are some services and activities specifically for international students to help you succeed at UniSC.

Be sure to view important information about changing your enrolment, academic progress and Student visa via while you are studying.

Facebook groups

You can join your campus Facebook group to connect with other students at your campus, ask questions and help others find answers, share your experiences and stay up-to-date with what's happening on campus.

Student Guild services, student clubs and events

The Student Guild provides free, independent support and social services to students such as a food bank and community kitchen, advocacy and welfare services, subsidised haircuts and free legal referrals. They also run social events where you can meet other students 

You can also explore the student clubs and societies – you might find a club related to your program or some may be related to your degree or a social club.

Staying healthy and looking after yourself

Staying healthy and looking after yourself

Student Wellbeing provides many resources and fact sheets that cover a range of topics including adjusting to a new culture, self-care, managing distress and much more that you may find useful.

All students can also access free and confidential counselling. Find out how to book an appointment and common areas that students seek help with.

English language support

Students who have difficulty with written or spoken English can get practical help from our team of Learning Advisers who can help international and resident non-English speaking background students achieve academic success.

Safety and respect at UniSC

UniSC is committed to the safety of all students, staff and visitors. To ensure all students have a safe space to learn, be respected, and have an enjoyable university experience, Respect at UniSC  is an online module designed to create a shared understanding of what it means to be a respectful member of the UniSC community.

It is recommended that you download the SafeZone App – you can use this when you are on campus to seek immediate assistance, first aid support or an escort.

If you have any questions about your safety on campus or you would like to report a concern, you can contact SafeUniSC on 07 5456 3864 or book an appointment online to speak with a specialised staff member.

If you require immediate security support, you can contact the 24/7 number on 07 5430 1168.

Student representatives and feedback

We value student feedback and your student representatives can support and advise you on student matters. Ensure you use each opportunity to have your say to make your student experience a great one.

Other resources (non-UniSC)

Study Sunshine Coast

Study Sunshine Coast is focused on attracting students to study, live, work and play on the beautiful Sunshine Coast as well as improving the student experience while here.

Study Sunshine Coast develops and delivers a variety of free workshops, events and services students can get involved in.

View more information about Study Sunshine Coast and the Study Sunshine Coast Student Hub.

Food Services Program

Study Sunshine Coast, in conjunction with the USC Student Guild, offers a community food services program. To find out more visit the Student Guild at USC Sunshine Coast campus or email ManagerStudentGuild@usc.edu.au.

QLD Student Hub

The Queensland Student Hub is a state-wide online support service for international students. They offer appointments with a Student Support Officer, live chat, and resources about finding a job, accommodation, finances and wellbeing while living in Queensland, Australia.

International Student Health Hub

The International Student Health Hub has been co-designed with international students to provide easily accessible information on sexual health and reproductive services.

Health and wellbeing
  • You can access a range of student wellbeing resources and fact sheets that you can access anytime.
  • Smiling Mind is a free mindfulness meditation app developed by psychologists and educators to help people balance their lives by looking after their mental health, and manage the pressure, stress, and challenges of daily life.
  • ReachOut has a dedicated section on its website that aims to help people find mobile apps and tools to help you look after your health and wellbeing. Apps are reviewed both by professionals and users. You can take a short quiz to receive recommendations for apps that could be helpful to you.
Academic and learning

Academic and learning support to help you develop your academic skills:

Talk to the Careers and Employability team about study pathways, program changes, future careers, job applications and resumes. Access online and recorded workshops, self-guided resources, or book a zoom consultation via Student Hub.

Library and research services and resources are available from any location, including guidance to search for and use library and information resources to support your study.

Successful Learning Strategies provides advice and support to enhance your learning, improve your skills and get the most out of your studies

Technology Support for assistance to access UniSC networks and troubleshoot problems with logins, passwords, and access to UniSC systems.

Staying connected

You can also stay connected with your UniSC peers via our Campus Facebook Groups. Join your usual campus group to start or join the discussion with other students.

Search FAQs – If you are offshore, the time difference can make it tricky to connect with our Student Central team. If you have a question, search our online knowledge base for answers to commonly asked questions.

Studying outside Australia (offshore)

If you are currently enrolled in a program and you are not located in Australia, you are studying offshore.

As you continue your studies with USC outside of Australia, we want to make sure you’re aware of the support and services you have access to to help you succeed in your studies and make your time at USC a memorable one.

If you're not sure who you can reach out to, please speak to a Student Success Adviser. They can assist with any further questions or concerns you may have about your study. Book an online Zoom appointment via Student Hub.

Female student studying with books and laptop