To prepare you for your time in Melbourne and as a student at Victoria University (VU), we have listed a range of practical suggestions below.  We will also send you materials once you have accepted your offer. Read them carefully and keep a copy of all material for future reference.

Before leaving home

Being organised and prepared before you leave home will make your arrival so much easier.

Task checklist:

• Accept your offer
• Organise health insurance
• Pay your fees
• Apply for your student visa
• Book your flight and arrive in time to attend orientation
• Request airport reception
• Consider quarantine regulations when packing
• Register for Higher Education or TAFE orientation
• Watch the Life at VU video.

Arrange temporary accommodation

Victoria University International (VUI) understands how important housing and accommodation is for international students arriving in Melbourne.

We have a number of student residences conveniently located close to several VU campuses including temporary housing and home stay.

Pre-departure and cultural guides

For information about your transition to Melbourne and Victoria University, download our:

• comprehensive pre-departure guide Your Journey to VU
• Muslim Student Guide to living in Melbourne.

Copies are also available from any Victoria University International office. Read more about living in Melbourne and Australia.

Set your budget

It is a good idea to put together a budget for your time at Victoria University. Setting a good budget will ensure that you can meet your visa obligations in having access to appropriate funds.

A budget will also help you:

• determine how much money you need to bring with you
• where you can afford to live
• what you will need to buy on arrival.

To get started on a budget, use our cost of living estimates and remember to be realistic about your expenses.

Setting up a bank account

Many international banks can work with Australian banks to set up an account for you before you leave home.

If you prefer to wait until after you arrive, set up a bank account during your first six weeks in Australia. After six weeks, you will then need to supply additional forms of identification as part of the Australian Government identification guidelines. At any stage, you will need your:

• passport
• electronic Confirmation of Enrolment and
• another form of identification (such as your student ID card).

You can choose from one of Australia's four major banks (each offering services for international students) or an alternate bank of your choice.

• ANZ
• Commonwealth bank of Australia
• National Australia Bank (NAB)
• Westpac