Check whether you qualify for a grant or scholarship!

In many cases you will qualify for a grant or scholarship.
Find out about this by reading through the grant and scholarship information on our website or by asking your local goverment, using an online grant finder or inquiring at your university/college to find the best option for you.

Think about vaccinations!

You do not need any special vaccinations for Australia or New Zealand.
Still, it could be useful to get vaccinations: they will give you extra protection that offers you the freedom to visit other countries, especially in Asia, during or after your internship. It is best to just ask your doctor about the right vaccinations for your travel plans.

Think about your luggage!

You probably already know that the maximum weight allowance for your baggage is 20 kg. Make sure you stick to this!
Excess baggage costs a lot of money and you can get very nice clothes Down Under. They are often even cheaper than they are at home! Also consider taking a backpack instead of a suitcase. When you start travelling around, you will immediately realize the advantages of this! Of course you can also buy a backpack once you are at your destination.

Use plenty of sun cream!

Lovely, that sunshine in Sydney or Auckland, but do be careful!
At that side of the world, a lot of UV radiation gets through the very thin ozone layer, which is not without risk. Perhaps you will realizea quickly that the sun seems to be 'stronger' Down Under. So, use plenty of sun cream of at least Factor 30 and consider wearing a stylish hat.

Be careful when washing your clothes!

Washing machines in Australia and New Zealand tend to be quite rough on your clothes. The so-called "top loaders" are fine for your casual clothing, but you better wash that expensive dress or that fancy shirt by hand! Think also of investing in proper washing powder to get spots out of your clothes.

Plan your activities!

Kiwis and Aussies are well-known for their love of sports. Both Australia and New Zealand lend themselves perfectly to all kinds of (outdoor) activities. Adrenalin junkies go bungee jumping, skydiving or rafting. If you feel that this is a bit over the top, you can opt for mountain biking or abseiling or any of the many other sportive activities available.
Apart from popular sports there are of course plenty of other things you can get involved in. Once you booked your airline tickets, start looking for thrilling and memorable ways to spend your time here. In that way you will make the most of your experience Down Under!
When planning your activities, consider the time available, your budget and of course your interests. Most importantly, just note down some personal "must-do's" and "must-see's" but stay flexible. Once you are Down Under, you will meet plenty of people and get further ideas on what to see and to do!

Not right but left!

Everyone knows that people drive on the left Down Under. Still, this frequently leads to accidents among tourists. So, keep checking the traffic!
Another important difference: traffic lights will change to green for cars turning off and crossing pedestrians at the same time. Be careful!
When thinking of renting a car, be assured that all the important functions such as brakes, accelerator and gears are exactly the same as you are used to. You just sit on the right side, which means changing gears with the left hand instead of the right one. After a few kilometers, you should be used to it - just keep in mind to stay on the left side of the road!

Be aware of (credit) card limitations!

In Australia and New Zealand, you can only use your bank card in a cash dispenser (ATM), so you cannot use it in shops or restaurants.
You should therefore always make sure that you have enough cash or a credit card, or you should open a local bank account. Such an account comes with a bank card which you can use everywhere. It would also mean that you will not have to worry about card limits any more.

Be careful with insect bites!

You may well come across strange insects while you are travelling. Be careful with them! Your body may not respond to a simple mosquito bite here in the same way as it does at home. If in doubt, always consult a doctor!
When travelling on the West Coast of the South Island of New Zealand, never ever scratch bites. Instead, use a cream to stop the itching and the bites will disappear quickly without any traces.

Surf sensible!

Of course you have to be careful while doing water sports. But, when we talk about surfing sensibly we refer to something else.
In Australia and New Zealand the internet becomes increasingly slow once you have exceeded the download limit. All our accommodations do, of course, have maximum internet packages. Unfortunately, they are still inferior to the facilities we are used to. As a result, internet is fine fur research and communication but avoid downloading or streaming movies or large music files as this takes not only very long but exceeds the limits quickly. So, use the internet sensibly.

Get a part-time job!

Because of your status as an international student in Australia or New Zealand, you are allowed to apply for a work visa in combination with your student visa. This extension of your visa allows you to work part-time during the semester (up to 20 hours per week). International students often find work in hospitality, retail, marketing and administration, just have a look around or ask at your local career centre or international office. On average, you can expect to earn between €6,- and €12,- per hour depending on your age and the type of work. When working on sundays or public holidays, you can expect to earn a little more per hour. In order to work, you need a bank account and tax file number called IRD number in New Zealand and TFN number in Australia. This is not only a great opportunity to earn some extra money but also a great way to gain practical experience and learn more about your host country.
Feel free to contact us with any questions!

Discover Oceania!

Fiji, Bali or Tasmania. Names of exotic places that might still sound unfamiliar... Not for much longer! When you are in Australia or New Zealand, the most outlandish-sounding destinations will suddenly be quite close. Make the most of this, as you might not be on the other side of the world very often!

Speak as the locals do!

The English used in the countries Down Under differs considerably from what you are used to. We would not immediately address one another as "honey", "my love" or "mate". But "Aussies" and "Kiwis" do! Broaden your English and get to know some of the sometimes very funny expressions.

Get an international driving licence!

It is very helpful to apply for an international driving licence in your home country. Just ask at your local city council where you need to go to obtain it. Together with your national driving licence, you are allowed to drive in Australia and New Zealand with your own or a rented car.