Student support

International students

In addition to the Academic Learning Support and Student Services, the following services are offered to international students.

Airport pick up

Arriving in Australia will bring new challenges and experiences, therefore a free airport reception and transfer service is available for international students arriving in Australia for the first time. The friendly and supportive staff at USQ will help international students adjust from their first day and throughout their time at USQ.

If you would like to use this service, please complete the appropriate Airport Reception Request form.

Counselling

USQ is aware that many difficulties can unexpectedly arise while studying in Australia. Therefore, a fully qualified psychologist will be available to address any personal concerns international students may have while studying at USQ. Counselling services are free and meet Australian regulations regarding privacy and confidentiality.

Orientation program

Attending the USQ International Students Orientation is a must for international students to get the best possible start to their academic and social life at university. Each semester we plan a series of information sessions and fun activities to familiarise students with life at USQ and the Australian culture.

If students arrive after the commencement or completion of the International Orientation program, they should call into International Support, Student Services on the Springfield Campus. We can provide them with an orientation and activate their Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).

International Friendship Program

USQ Springfield has a number of International students on campus from various countries around the world. The USQ International Friendship Program (IFP) introduces international students to local individuals and families. It is not a home-stay program or a dating service, but rather a forum for developing awareness of and understanding between people form different cultures. The benefits of this program for international students include providing a social and cultural outlet, assistance in adjusting to life in Australia and experiencing real Aussie lifestyles and culture firsthand. The benefits to local families include introduction to a new language, being exposed to a different culture, being part of a multicultural community, contributing to the local community and developing new friendships.

For more information about the IFP, please contact Student Services on +61 7 3470 4400 or via studentservicesspringfield@usq.edu.au.

English Language Courses for Overseas Students (ELICOS)

ELICOS is an Australian program designed for students who wish to improve their English Language skills. Students choose an ELICOS course for a variety of reasons. Some students hope to:

continue on to university but need to develop their English language skills first
improve their English before going to a high school in Australia
use English for travel purposes
take a break from their studies at home.

International students seeking to enrol in ELICOS programs at Springfield are recommended to contact our preferred ELICOS supplier Union Institute of Language (UIL). UIL is based in the World Knowledge Centre in Education City, Springfield, and is adjacent to the USQ Springfield campus.

Students can also enrol for ELICOS programs at our Toowoomba campus and can obtain more information at study@usq.edu.au.