Getting prepared

With not long to go now until you join us, what do you need to know and do to make sure you get the best start at Federation?

1. Most important - remember orientation

We will update this page with next Semester's Orientation dates as soon as they are confirmed.

Partner locations (ATMC/MIT/IIBIT etc.): You will be contacted separately with all the information you need.

Orientation could be several months away, so what do you need to know in the meantime? Some of these tips are not applicable to those of you starting your course from your home country, but we hope that you'll be able to come and join us soon!

2. Familiarise yourself with Uni IT systems

The good news is that you only have to remember one single log-in, which gets you access to all IT systems. Find out your default initial log-in here, then change your password as soon as possible.

Next, try out your new log in and get used to the different systems you'll be using through your course - things you may be familiar with, like email, and others that you might not, such as Moodle (our learning management system). Find out how to access everything in our handy guide to Uni IT systems.

If some of your classes will be held online (and in 2021 that's very likely), we also have a complete guide to studying online.

Finally, we are even offering a live technology bootcamp for anyone who needs some more support with Uni IT - watch this space for session details.

The following steps will be most useful once International Students are able to come into the country, however it always pays to be well-prepared, and if you're already onshore but relocating this could still be relevant.

3. Open a bank account

Already live in Australia? You may already have one, but check to see if your bank offers any special student accounts.

From overseas. Most Australian banks allow you to do this online from your home country - this is so useful to ensure you have access to cash as soon as you arrive, and don't need to bring heaps of currency with you. Major banks in Australia include: Commonwealth, ANZ, NAB, Bendigo Bank and Westpac

4. Start to pack

Most airlines have a pretty strict baggage allowance, so make sure you know what yours is (and stick to it) to avoid delays and embarrassment at the airport! Think about what you'll need to bring for the time of year (Victoria is cold from May - September). Take a look at our suggested packing list (pdf, 181kb) to guide you on what to bring (and what not to bring).

If you're already in Australia but moving location your car probably also has a baggage allowance so make sure you check the boot space and suspension...

5. Organise your travel from the airport

Whether you're coming from interstate or overseas, plan your travel carefully. Each of our campuses is served by an airport shuttle bus, but only at certain times of the day so don't get caught out by arriving at midnight.

Shuttle bus timetables
Ballarat
Berwick

Getting to campus from the airport
Mt Helen
Berwick

Ordinarily, new International students living on-campus are offered a free airport transfer for arrivals near the start of orientation, but due to COVID19 restrictions on International arrivals this is paused until further notice.

Questions about getting organised?

Please contact International student advisory: isa@federation.edu.au