Pre-Departure Briefing for

Australia and New ZealandInternational Relations Office 26 April 2018

Who are we?

What can we do for you?

Global Relations Office (GRO)

Agenda1. Highlights of SEP2. Preparing for SEP3. What to expect at your destination4. Settling in5. Homecoming6. Sharing by returning NUS exchange students7. Networking

STUDENT EXCHANGE PROGRAMME Stand out as a global citizen and future-ready graduate by embarking on SEP – our longest-running and largest student mobility programme – during your time at NUS!

SEP is an opportunity for students to:

Spend one or two semesters studying at a partner university

1

Earn modular credits toward their major in a new academic setting

2

Immerse themselves in a new place and culture

3

4 Enjoy tuition-fee waiver from the partner institution, and pay NUS tuition fees for the exchange semester(s)

What is SEP?

TOP REASONS FOR GOING ON SEP (as reported by students)

To experience a different culture1

Personal development2

To experience a different education system3

AFTER THEIR SEP EXPERIENCE…

Felt more capable of taking care of themselves

~99%

Felt more willing to try out new things ~99%

SATISFACTION SURVEY

AY2016/17

99% were either extremely satisfied or

satisfied with their exchange

98% would recommend SEP to other

students

PRE-DEPARTURE VIDEOhttps://share.nus.edu.sg/goabroad/Video/Pre-Departure_Video.wmv

ROAD MAPPreparing for SEP

• Set personal goals

• Find out about host destinations

• Plan itinerary

• Work out budget

After applying with your host university

• Read pre-departure guide

• Attend country briefing

While waiting for your acceptance

package

• Follow instructions in acceptance package (read carefully & meet deadlines)

• Apply for visa

• Book accommodation

• Make travel arrangements

Upon receiving your acceptance package

STUDY PLAN

• Complete the module mapping process via the NUS Student Information System (select Self Service – External Study).

• Include some spare modules in your study list in case you are unable to secure your preferred modules or when your enrolled module(s) has been cancelled.

• Should there be any changes to your study plan, seek approval from your home faculty immediately.

Preparing for SEP

PASSPORT & FLIGHT

• Ensure that passport is valid for 6 months after return date.

• Do NOT confirm flight booking until you have received the acceptance from the host university and gotten your visa.

• Arrive at least 2 weeks before study period and attend orientation programme.

Preparing for SEP

VISA Australia

• Apply for a sub-class 500 student visa at http://www.border.gov.au/Trav/Visa/Appl/Student after you are accepted by your host university and received an electronic Confirmation of Enrolment (eCoE) from your host university.

• Application fee: about AUD$560 + AUD$420 (18 & above) / AUD$140 (under 18)

• It is not recommended that you enter Australia with a tourist visa, hoping to change visa status later after arrival as your entry to Australia may be denied

• More information: http://www.border.gov.au/Trav/Visa-1/500-

• For enquiries, contact the student eVisa helpdesk at Visa.Students.Helpdesk@immi.gov.au.

Preparing for SEP

VISA New Zealand

• Apply for a student visa at https://www.immigration.govt.nz/new-zealand-visas/apply-for-a-visa/about-visa/exchange-student-visa after you have received the acceptance offer from your host university

• Check the acknowledgement page if you are required to submit your passport to the Immigration New Zealand Visa Application Centre.

• Student Visa Fee: around S$289 + VAC Service Fee: S$39

• Passport handling fee: S$32

• More information: http://www.vfsglobal.com/newzealand/singapore/Online.html

Preparing for SEP

ACCOMMODATION Things to note:

• Australian National University: On-campus accommodation is guaranteed. Apply for accommodation as soon as you have submitted your exchange application with ANU.

• Monash University: On-campus accommodation costs about AUD1,000 per month. Affordable comparing to other Australian universities. Please apply early if you are keen.

• University of Adelaide: Recommends the Urbanest Student Accommodation.

• University of Melbourne: Offers residential college housing on campus. Melbourne is located very close to the CBD, housing charges are quite steep. Refer to Melbourne website for housing options.

• University of New South Wales: Various options including catered colleges, self-catered university apartments or privately run colleges on or close to campus. Housing is not guaranteed. There are housing options in the beautiful suburbs surrounding the campus.

Preparing for SEP

ACCOMMODATION Things to note:

• University of Sydney: Offers guaranteed accommodation at Urbanest, a student accommodation complex within 15 minute walk to campus and located on the doorstep of downtown Sydney. Apply before the housing application deadline.

• University of Queensland: Limited places available in their Residential Colleges. Visit UQ website for other housing options.

• University of Western Australia: Offers residential college housing but it is not guaranteed. Most international students are housing at the University Hall. Refer to UWA website for other housing options.

Preparing for SEP

ACCOMMODATION Things to note:

• University of Auckland: Various accommodation options available on and near to campus.

• University of Canterbury: It could be difficult for students coming for one semester to find private rental accommodation. UC strongly recommend that students apply for accommodation on-campus (students must apply for accommodation online by the deadline and also return all subsequent accommodation contracts by the required deadlines in order to secure the room).

• University of Otago: Renowned for its residential campus environment and exchange students coming to Otago are encouraged to apply for Uniflats. All the University Flats are located within an easy walk of the University campus

• Victoria University of Wellington: Shortage of on-campus accommodation. Please apply early even before receiving the acceptance offer from VUW. It is difficult to secure housing near the campus. Research early for housing options.

Preparing for SEP

HEALTH & INSURANCE Preparing for SEP

• Read through the coverage from the NUS Students Travel Insurance http://www.nus.edu.sg/finance/InsuranceCoverforOfficialNUSTrips.html.

• Have a comprehensive travel and health insurance coverage for the full duration of your stay abroad, including travelling.

• You may need to purchase additional health and/or travel insurance from your preferred agent.

• Bring along the emergency hotline numbers and a copy of your insurance policy.

• Report accident/loss at the earliest possible opportunity.

HEALTH & INSURANCE Preparing for SEP

Australia

• It is mandatory to purchase the Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) policy. You can purchase it through your host university. The cost is approximately AUD$353 per semester.

• OSHC cover for visits to doctor, some hospital treatment, ambulance services and selected pharmaceuticals (medicines) http://www.immi.gov.au/students/health-insurance.htm

New Zealand

• It is mandatory to purchase the Studentsafe - University insurance plan which covers health and travel insurance benefits. You can purchase it through your host university. The cost is approximately NZ$310 per semester. http://www.studentassist.co.nz/

COST OF LIVINGPreparing for SEP

• The estimated cost of living, including accommodation, food, transport and entertainment is as follows.

Australia: S$2,300 – S$4,000 per month

New Zealand: S$1,800 – S$2,200 per month

• It is important that you record your expenses to make the most out of your budget and to ensure that your budget will last until the end of your SEP.

Currency exchange rate as at 23 April 2018: AUD$1 = approx. S$1.01 NZ$1 = approx. S$0.95

CHECKLIST OF THINGS TO BRING – DOCUMENTS

Preparing for SEP

Valid passport and visa

Proof of acceptance by PU

Study plan

NUS transcripts (to facilitate module registration)

Proof of financial support

Letter confirming accommodation

Receipts of payments made (housing, admin fees, etc.)

Medical records (including vaccinations)

Insurance

Forms of identification (ISIC youth card, driving license, etc.)

Bank draft/ credit card/ cash

Confirmed flight ticket

List of emergency contacts

Please remember to make a copy of all important documents. Keep separate sets in different places. You might also like to leave a set at home, so that these documents can be easily sent to you in the event that you lose those with you.

CHECKLIST OF THINGS TO BRING – NECESSITIES

Preparing for SEP

Appropriate clothing

First-aid kit

Medication

Adaptors and chargers

Umbrella/ raincoat

Appropriate footwear

Toiletries

Hairdryer

Digital camera

Photos and souvenirs of home/ Singapore

Foodstuff

Passport photos

PACK IT RIGHT FOR YOUR FLIGHTPreparing for SEP

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LlbnnWyDalQ&feature=youtu.be

AUSTRALIAN BIOSECURITYPreparing for SEP

http://www.agriculture.gov.au/travelling/arriving-in-australia#declare-it

NEW ZEALAND BIOSECURITYPreparing for SEP

http://mpi.govt.nz/travel-and-recreation/arriving-in-new-zealand/items-to-declare/

Preparing for SEP

• Singaporeans/PRs should register themselves with Singapore MFA at https://eregister.mfa.gov.sg/eregisterportal/common/preLoginEregisterView.action.

• NS men must notify MINDEF of their trip and apply for the Exit Permit if required at www.ns.sg.

• International students should contact their country’s diplomatic missions.

DON’T FORGET TO REGISTER WITH MFA!

AUSTRALIAWhat to Expect at Your Destination

University of Western Australia

University of Adelaide

Monash UniversityUniversity of Melbourne

La Trobe University

University of Queensland

University of SydneyUNSW

Australian National University

AUSTRALIA

• A diverse nation with multicultural population

• Friendly, laid-back nature, excellent education system and high standard of living

• Attractive study destination• Vibrant cities with lots of festivals and

events• Generally a safe place to live and study• Academic Calendar:

Semester 1: Mid February to Late JuneSemester 2: Mid July to Mid November

What to Expect at Your Destination

NEW ZEALANDWhat to Expect at Your Destination

University of Wellington

University of Auckland

University of Canterbury

University of Otago

NEW ZEALAND

• Consists of 2 major land masses – North and South Island. Approx. two third of the population lives in the North Island.

• Auckland is the largest city and the most ethically diverse.

• Spectacular landscapes from vast mountain ranges, steaming volcanoes to sweeping coastlines.

• Generally a safe place to live and study• Academic Calendar:

Semester 1: Mid February to Late JuneSemester 2: Mid July to Mid November

What to Expect at Your Destination

AUSSIE’S ACADEMIC CULTUREWhat to Expect at Your Destination

• Less schedule class time• Emphasize on learning independently and continuing your study outside classes• Less individualised attention and direction from lecturers • Active discussion in tutorial classes • It is important to voice your own opinion and to be able to support your opinions

with facts and references• An argumentative, not descriptive, style of writing in essays and exams• Fewer assessments but they will have heavier weighting• http://www.international.uwa.edu.au/students/intstudents/academic-matters• http://www.mobility.unimelb.edu.au/inbound/study/academic-culture.html

WEATHER (WINTER)What to Expect at Your Destination

• Climate varies greatly within Australia and New Zealand. There are four seasons across most of the country and a wet and dry season in the north for Australia.

• Winter (June to August)• Usually cold and relatively wet• Day temperature range from 6 to 18 degree Celsius• Night temperature may drop near to 0 degree Celsius in

certain areas• Air will be dry – put on lots of moisturiser.• Have a good coat with you; the weather can change

rapidly • You may experience gloominess because you are not

used to the short days and cold weather.• Bring thick waterproof coats, warm jumpers, jeans/warm

trousers, scarves, gloves, warm waterproof shoes, umbrella etc.

WEATHER (SPRING)What to Expect at Your Destination

• Spring (September to November)• Mild and usually wet• Average temperature range is 10 to 22 degree Celsius• This is usually the wettest season of the year• Bring jacket, light jumpers, t-shirts, light casual trousers and

jeans, water proof shoes and umbrella

• Daylight Saving Time• Australia – starts on the first Sunday in October and ends on

the first Sunday in April when all clocks are put forward one hour. The states and territories that participate in daylight saving are Tasmania, Victoria, the ACT (Australian Capital Territory), New South Wales and South Australia (excluding Queensland).

• New Zealand – starts on the last Sunday in September and ends on the first Sunday in April the following year when all clocks are put forward one hour (2am becomes 3am).

WEATHER (SUMMER)What to Expect at Your Destination

• Summer (December to February)• Sun is very harsh in Australia, put on lots of

sunblock, even on a cloudy day as you can get burned quickly.

• The UV rays in also very strong in New Zealand.• Get a water resistant SPF30+ (or higher)

sunscreen.• Bring along a hat and a pair of sunglasses• Sun rises early and sets late

LIFESTYLEWhat to Expect at Your Destination

• Australians are quite casual and informal (i.e. most students refer to their lecturers and tutors by their first names)

• Australians expect everyone to be treated equally. It is common to thank shop assistants and other service staff when they assist you.

• It is important to be on time in Australia — it is polite to call if you are going to be late for an appointment.

• Smoking is not permitted in restaurants, bars, nightclubs or many other public covered areas.

• Littering is prohibited, as is drinking alcohol in a public place.

• If you're not sure of something, or need an explanation, don't be afraid to ask. Most Australians will be happy to help you if you're unsure of something.

LIFESTYLEWhat to Expect at Your Destination

• The standard casual greetings in Australia is “Hi how are you” and Hi how are you going”. However, it doesn’t represent actual questions that need constructive answers..

• The cost of food and transportation is higher comparing to Singapore. Learn to cook as eating out can be costly. Get concession card for travelling on public transport.

• Alcohol is served in many social occasions. Do not be pressured into drinking. Know your limit!

• In Australia, coffee isn’t fuel for work – it’s a way of life. You can find nice coffee from almost any café!

• Read about the Australian English Phrases you need to befriend Aussies http://www.fluentu.com/english/blog/australian-english/

LIFESTYLEWhat to Expect at Your Destination

• New Zealanders are generally casual and relaxed, and dress informally on most occasions, including when going to a café or shopping.

• Many New Zealanders have a quite direct and frank way of speaking.

• Appointments are made in advance to see professional people (i.e. to see a doctor or lecturer)

• New Zealanders can be passionate about sports particularly ruby. Playing sports is a great way to make friends.

• New Zealand is not a dangerous country but it is prone to earthquakes and you are likely to feel a few minor tremors each year.

• Both Maori and English are official languages, with English as the main language spoken.

LIFESTYLEWhat to Expect at Your Destination

• New Zealanders often get together in pubs, bars or cafes rather than restaurants, which can be costly. It is acceptable NOT to drink alcohol when socialising.

• At dinner parties it is customary for guests to bring a bottle of wine. It is also common, but not obligatory, to ask "Is there anything I can bring?" Often, the hosts will decline the offer, but sometimes they will suggest that you bring pre-dinner snacks, a salad, a dessert or perhaps after-dinner mints.

• Sometimes guests will be asked to ‘bring a plate’. This is a local phrase that means ‘bring some food’. It is best to ask what sort of food is expected since this will vary depending on the event.

• If someone says "We’re having a ‘do’, and hope you can come", this means you are invited to a party! Please ask if you are expected to bring anything.

• Safety should be the priority in all that you do.

• Assess the risk of what you are about to do and try to minimise and even avoid unnecessary risk.

• If confronted, give up your valuables and do not resist as your safety is the most important.

• Ask locals about any dangerous areas or locations that should be avoided.

SAFETYWhat to Expect at Your Destination

• Read about the water safety advice for Australia at www.royallifesaving.com.au and beach-related safety at www.sls.com.au.

• Always swim between the red and yellow flags at the beach. Lifeguards patrol this area, making it the safest area for swimmers, where you will avoid dangers like rips, undercurrent, rocks, reefs, jellyfish and other hazards.

SAFETY - AUSTRALIAWhat to Expect at Your Destination

• Some heavily populated parts of New Zealand are in areas of very high seismic activity. In 2010 and 2011, several large earthquakes and aftershocks occurred in the Canterbury (Christchurch) region and resulted in widespread damage to infrastructure, injuries, and deaths. Read about preparation for earthquakes and other natural disasters is available at http://www.prepare.co.nz/Disaster-Information/Earthquake

• Many tourists come to New Zealand to participate in extreme adventure sports, such as bungee jumping, sky diving, hiking, rappelling, climbing, motorcycling, and kayaking. Very often, injuries and even death result from participating in such activities. You should use caution and common sense when engaging in adventure sports. Never participate in these sports alone, always carry identification, and let someone else know where you are at all times.

SAFETY – NEW ZEALANDWhat to Expect at Your Destination

SAFETYWhat to Expect at Your Destination

Source: https://www.sgsecure.sg/resources/Documents/Run%20Hide%20Tell%20English%2026%20January%202017.pdf

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT…What to Expect at Your Destination

• Climate and time difference

• Exchange rate and cost of living

• Regional map and local transportation

• Local data/mobile plan

• Cultural similarities and differences

• Health and safety

• Meet and greet (airport pick up) service

• Living and studying at host university

• Expectation and academic assessment at host university

• Activities for exchange students at host university

Remember to register with your host university if you require an airport pick up service!

USEFUL RESOURCESWhat to Expect at Your Destination

• Partner university specific information:http://www.nus.edu.sg/iro/prog/sep/partner-universities.html

• Partner University application instructions and university information:https://share.nus.edu.sg/ng/Partner%20Univerisity%20SEP%20application%20material%20for%20s/Forms/AllItems.aspx

• Read seniors’ reports of host university:https://share.nus.edu.sg/ng/SEP%20Report/Forms/AllItems.aspx

• On being prepared while overseas:https://www.mfa.gov.sg/content/dam/mfa/images/Consular%20Information/for_singapore_citizens/advice_for_singaporeans_going_overseas/Travel%20Notice%20Booklet/2012/MFA%20Booklet%20English.pdf

MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR SEMESTER

Settling In

• Don’t just stick to Singaporeans! Make an effort to meet different people and be open-minded about differences.

• Even while having fun, make sure you are aware of any important academic dates and not miss any deadlines!

• Take note of your exam dates. If your semester overseas overlaps with the new NUS semester, start making arrangements for early exam or alternative assessments. If neither is possible, apply for an extension of your leave of absence from NUS.

• Activate the email account given by your host university to receive important notices and announcements.

• Check both host university and NUS email frequently.

• Always stay in touch with your family and friends back home.

• If a problem arises, try to resolve it. However, if you are unable to, ask for help.

MITIGATING CULTURE SHOCKSettling In

• Recognise feelings of surprise, disorientation, confusion, etc. is normal and okay

1. Honeymoon phase

2. Negotiation phase

3. Adaption phase

• Talk to friends or a counselor

• Keep in regular contact with friends and family back home

• Join university and community activities

EXPECTED CONDUCTSettling In

• Respect others and behave respectably too.

• You are representing yourself, your school and your country.

• Obey laws and regulations of host country, host university, Singapore and NUS.

• Read rules and regulations at host university and ensure that you do not violate them. (e.g. rules on plagiarism and cheating)

• Do not be pressured into anything. Just because everyone is doing it, doesn’t make it right. Be comfortable being your own person.

Anti-drugs campaign by Singapore’s Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB)

Hotline for Central Narcotics Bureau: 1800-325-6666 | Website: www.cnb.gov.sg

USEFUL CONTACTSSettling In

• Make your own list of emergency contacts

1. Embassies/ High Commissions: www.mfa.gov.sg

2. Local emergencies numbers

3. Credit card and bank telephone numbers

4. Insurance hotlines

5. NUS Emergency contact: +65 6874 1616 (24 hours)

6. Confidential matters (e.g. harassment), write to IROConfidential@nus.edu.sg

USEFUL CONTACTS - AUSTRALIA

Settling In

• High Commission of Republic of Singapore, Australia

Address: 17 Forster Crescent, Yarralumla, ACT 2600, Australia

Phone: +61 (2) 6271 2000

Emergency: +61 414733944

Fax: +61 (2) 6273 9823 / +65 (2) 6273 8165

Email: CitizenService_CBR@mfa.gov.sg; singhc_cbr@sfa.gov.sg

• Public Emergency Service

For emergency assistance, call 000 and you will be connected immediately to the police, fire orambulance service.

• Ministry of Foreign Affairs Duty Office (24 hours)Tel: +65 6379 8800 / +65 6379 8855Email: mfa_duty_officer@mfa.gov.sg

USEFUL CONTACTS – NEW ZEALAND

Settling In

• High Commission of Singapore in Wellington, New Zealand

Address: 17 Kabul Street, Khandallah, Wellington 6035, New Zealand

Phone: +64 (4) 470 0850

Fax: +64 (4) 479 4066

Email: singhc_wlg@mfa.gov.sg

• Public Emergency ServiceFor emergency assistance, call 111 and you will be connected immediately to the police, fire or ambulance service.

• Ministry of Foreign Affairs Duty Office (24 hours)Tel: +65 6379 8800 / +65 6379 8855Email: mfa_duty_officer@mfa.gov.sg

BEFORE LEAVING YOUR HOST UNIVERSITY

Homecoming

• Say your goodbyes and ‘thank you’s

• Complete ex-matriculation process at host university

• Make sure your room is in a presentable state before leaving

• Follow NUS’ deadlines for CORS module bidding and application for on-campus housing

• Prepare and submit your SEP report

THINGS TO WHEN YOU RETURNHomecoming

1. Submit your SEP report

2. Join the Welcome Back Session (briefing on re-entry and network with other returning students)

3. Complete the SEP Evaluation Survey

4. Join the Peer Advising Programme

Advising Programme seeks to build a community of Peer Advisors (PAs) consisting of students who have been on SEP and are keen to contribute.

Link up with our Peer Advising Leaders (PALs) to find out more:

peeradvising@nus.edu.sg http://tinyurl.com/peeradvisingNUS

http://www.nus.edu.sg/iro/sep/pals/pals.html @NUSPeerAdvisors

5. Help out at SEP outreach activities and help your juniors prepare for their SEP journey ahead

TAKE PART IN THE

Be a SEP Ambassador for Singapore and NUS!

SESSION ONE

Date : 15 May 2018

Time : 2.30pm – 4pm

Venue : Global LoungeShaw Foundation Alumni House, L1

SESSION TWO

Date : 5 July 2018

Time : 2.30pm – 4pm

Venue : Global LoungeShaw Foundation Alumni House, L1

W E L C O M E T O Y O U R

B IG ADVENTURE!THE WORLD IS YOUR OYSTER – GO OUT THERE AND OWN IT!