Information sessions

Coming to UQ is an exciting time! You're invited to our range of information sessions and modules to help you get UQ ready and make the transition to studying in Queensland.

The sessions will give you an indication of what it will be like at UQ and your first few weeks. We'll take you through preparing to arrive in Brisbane, enrolment, orientation and how to navigate our websites.

Choose an info session

All our sessions are recorded, with both online and in-person options available. If you can't attend a session make sure to register in order to receive the recording. There will also be opportunities to ask questions in each session. Registration links and session recordings will be made available closer to Semester 1, 2025.

International student pre-departure

If you're an international student preparing to arrive in Australia, join us for our pre-departure online session. We'll cover:

  • what to expect upon arrival in Australia and airport reception
  • accommodation and university campuses
  • planning your finances and your health insurance coverage, and
  • tips on what to pack.

Register for your preferred session:

Study abroad and incoming exchange

If you're a Study Abroad or Exchange student preparing to study at UQ for one or 2 semesters, join us for an online pre-departure session.

We'll cover:

  • Finding accommodation
  • Enrolment and timetables
  • Arriving in Australia
  • Support for international students
  • Orientation and settling in

Register for your preferred session:

Finding Accommodation in Southeast Queensland

During this online workshop, Student Advisers will help answer your questions and work with you to navigate your living arrangement options before you arrive.

Areas Covered:

  • UQ Accommodation Services
  • short term and permanent accommodation
  • guidance on renting and the renting process
  • application process
  • where to go for help and advice.

Enrolling and timetabling (faculties)

These online sessions cover how to enrol in your courses, the class allocation process, and where to go to get course advice. Some of the other topics the session will cover are:

  • Starting at UQ website
  • understanding key academic terminology
  • using a program/study planner
  • understanding your Electronic Course Profile (ECP), and
  • registering and updating your class timetable.

Safety in Australia

This online workshop will provide international students with tips on keeping safe while living in Australia - on, and off, campus. The session will cover:

  • personal safety on and off campus
  • emergency services
  • where to seek support
  • water and wildlife safety, and
  • protecting yourself from scams and more

Aussie culture

This online session will give international students more information about living in Australia including:

  • Australia’s historical roots
  • Aussie slang
  • Favourite Australian foods, and
  • Some common cultural practices

Overseas Student Health Cover and medical help for international students

If you're an international student, this online session will help you understand:

  • How to access medical help and doctors in Australia
  • What to do when you get sick, and 
  • How to use Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).

Welcome to Southeast Queensland

This online session will introduce you to everything you need to know about living in Southeast Queensland. We will discuss:

  • who can help if you are having trouble with your accommodation or landlord
  • where to buy furniture
  • public transport tips and tricks
  • the best places to shop for food and other essentials
  • and much more!

International Higher Degree Research students: Compulsory information session

This session is compulsory for new international Higher Degree Research (HDR) students starting this research quarter and is a requirement of your visa. 

If you’d like to access resources from orientation, please log on to the eOrientation Blackboard site.

Supporting mental health, neurodiversity, medical conditions and disability

This online session provides information and advice on how to get support when studying. Our team will discuss:

  • student access plans
  • exam adjustments
  • ways to access assistive technology
  • and other support available and how to get it.

Budgeting and finances for students

Learn how to live more comfortably on a student budget. In this online workshop you'll find out strategies and tips on:

  • budget management
  • cheaper places to shop
  • ways to save money.

Getting started – Your first weeks at UQ

This workshop will give an overview on what students can expect in their first few weeks of university and living in Australia. Areas covered include:

  • how to access student support services
  • important Dates and Orientation overview
  • important workshops to help you get started
  • navigating student sites and online portals including Blackboard
  • ‘Your next steps’ Student Checklist.

Working and studying on a student visa

For international students intending to work part-time during their study program, this online session covers what you need to know about working legally while studying, including:

  • work limitations, including for research students
  • how to obtain a Tax File Number
  • how to look for student-friendly jobs.

An introduction to essay writing for international students

Join this workshop if you want to develop your understanding of essay writing in the Australian university context. This workshop will outline the key elements of academic essays. We will focus on what is meant by an 'argument', how to organise and support your ideas, and how to structure your writing. We will also discuss academic style and referencing techniques. 

Register for your preferred session:

Study strategies for a successful semester

Join this workshop if you want to develop some strategies for organising your time and studying effectively.  This workshop will help you to plan and structure your study to help you keep on track throughout semester. We will focus on the four key elements to start your studies off well: the study cycle; keeping up with course content; managing and planning your time; and effective techniques for learning. 

Register for your preferred session:

Managing your time and study at university

Join this workshop if you are interested in learning strategies for managing your time across competing commitments. This workshop will explore techniques that can help you to keep on top of your workload, manage your assessments, and enjoy your university experience. 

Register for your preferred session:

Managing your reading load for coursework students

Join this workshop to develop your reading strategies and understand how to approach reading for coursework. This workshop aims to help you to read more effectively by using the appropriate techniques for approaching your reading.  This is suitable for students at any level of study - first year undergrad to Master's level. 

Register for your preferred session:

Before you commence your program

If you have completed all the steps on Starting at UQ and are waiting to attend an online session, please take the time to complete these required modules. 

These modules will familiarise you with UQ's values of Creativity, Excellence, Truth, Integrity, Courage and Respect and Inclusivity. They must be completed before you commence your program.

Student support

Get the support you need in your home away from home at UQ.
All students have the same opportunity to succeed.