FAQ’s - International Students
Q1: I cannot arrive for the first day of orientation; can I start later?
A1: While this may sometimes be unavoidable due to flight or visa issues, we strongly recommend you arrive in time to receive important information and timetables. You may not be allowed to start after the first week of official course commencement.
Q2: Arrival at the airport – do you have someone who greets students or provides some form of transport?
A2: Challenger TAFE does not provide a pick-up service however, Education & Training International uses a private provider who may be able to assist you with airport pick-ups. Click on the Education & Training International link to find out about more. If you are a home-stay student, please contact your home-stay provider.
Q3: Is Halal food available on the campus?
A3: Please see our information booklet regarding halal and kosher foods.
Q4: What facilities are available to students? Sports clubs/ communities?
A4: There are facilities available upon request. Please speak with one of our friendly International Student Support Officers (ISSO) for further details.
Q5: What do I do if I need first aid or need to see a doctor?
A5: There is a first aid room on most campus locations. Please speak to your lecturer if you feel that you need first aid assistance. For more serious matters, you may see a doctor located in a location convenient to you. You may be required to pay full medical fees on your visit (normally around AUD$60.00). Ensure you receive a receipt from the medical practice as you will have to lodge a claim form with your Overseas Student Health Provider (e.g. Medibank or World Care Assist). You will likely be covered for part of the consultation and be out of pocket for a minimal amount. For more information, speak to an International Student Support Officer (ISSO). If you are unsure where to seek medical assistance, see an ISSO who can refer you to some medical practice/clinics in your area.
Q6: What happens if I am sick / ill / in hospital for 1 to 2 weeks – can I catch up on my course work?
A6: As an International Student, you are bound to adhere to your Student Visa conditions. Medical certificates must be presented to the International Office for any absences. If you plan to be absent for longer periods, please see one of our International Student Support Officers (ISSO).
Q7: How can I find places of worship?
A7: Churches can be found by visiting: http://members.iinet.net.au/~pcd/download-the-directory.php
Mosques can be found by visiting: http://www.afic.com.au
There are also prayer rooms available at a few of our campus locations. Please speak to one of our International Student Support Officers (ISSO) to find out more.
Q8: Travel concession cards for students
A8: As a full-time student, you are eligible to use Perth's public transport system (trains, buses, ferries) by paying a concessional fee. This means that you will be eligible for a student discount each time you use the public transport service. In order to obtain a concession, you will need to apply for a "Smartrider concession card". The Smartrider application form must be stamped by the bookshop cashier.
Q9: Deferring
A9: Please see the ISSO regarding this.
Q10: Am I allowed to change colleges once I arrive in Perth?
A10: Although this is not recommended, it may be possible depending on several factors. Please speak to one of our International Student Support Officers (ISSO) for further advice.
Q11: Can you point me to some useful websites for International Students?
A11: Useful for finding accommodation and cheap goods: http://perth.gumtree.com.au
Useful for cheap cars and other goods: http://www.quokka.com.au
Q12: Where can I find specialty shops? For example, Asian supermarkets, Halal products, etc?
A12: There are many supermarkets in Perth, Fremantle and surrounding suburbs. Please see the ISSO for directions.
Q13: Can you give me some tips for cheaper living food, discounts, back of shopper dockets?
A13: Please talk to your International Student Mentors, other students or drop into the ISSO. We will be happy to give you some tips on "living on a student's budget" in Perth!
Q14: Who can I contact if I am homesick or experience anxiety or depression emotions?
A14: Please see the ISSO as soon possible, as we have professional counsellors available. Our staff will ensure confidentiality in all cases. It may also help to talk with your International Student Mentors or drop into the International Student Office. Remember, the International Student Support Officers are here to help you succeed while you are with us at Challenger TAFE!
Q15: Who do I speak to if I have a problem with or can’t understand the lecturer
A15: Please come to the ISSO and we will help to resolve any issues or problems you may have.
Q16: Do you have people to help with study?
A16: Yes! We provide Study Support free of charge various days and times of the week. For further details, please visit the Study Support link.
Q17: Do you have facilities for disabled access?
A17: Yes we do. Please talk to the ISSO for further information.
Q18: Where do I go to if I lose my timetable?
A18: Please talk with your lecturer first. If you feel you need further help, please see the ISSO.
Q19: Can you help with finding accommodation?
A19: We do not have on-campus accommodation but we can provide a referral service. Our Student Services Officers endeavours to update this accommodation list weekly. Also please click on the following link for Gumtree.
Q20: What am I covered for with my health cover?
A20: For details about this, please visit your provider’s web site:
* OSHC Worldcare: www.oshcworldcare.com.au
* Medibank: www.medibank.com.au
Q21: Are there any other fees I have to pay at the college? For example; excursions, etc?
A21: Some courses have resource fees attached to your tuition costs. This information is written on your Confirmation of Enrolment.
Q22: Why do I have to pay Resource Fees?
A22: Resource fees are additional to your tuition fees. The resource fee covers materials purchased by Challenger TAFE to be consumed or transformed by you in the course of instruction. The resource fee also covers internet charges and other services utilised by you in the course of instruction. Note; any equipment that will be retained by you as your own personal property must be purchased separately by you.
Q23: Are there any facilities at the campus where I can heat up my food or fridges for my lunch/drinks?
A23: The International Office has computers with internet access, sofas, a refrigerator, microwave oven as well as coffee and tea making facilities in several campus locations. Please speak to one of our ISSO's to find out more.
Q24: Who do I speak to about my fees and payments?
A24: For any questions about this, you must speak with Education & Training International (ETI)
Q25: Who do I speak to if I am having problems paying my fees?
A25: If you are experiencing difficulties in paying your course fees, you must speak with a Student Services Staff member at Education & Training International (ETI) as soon as possible to ensure that you do not breach your student visa conditions. Failure to pay your tuition fees by the due date may be reported to the Department of Immigration and Citizenship and your student visa may be revoked.
Q26: Do I have to do the whole semester if I want to change courses?
A26: Yes. This is a condition as stipulated by ETI. Please consult them for further information.
Q27: Can I drive in Australia with my licence?
A27: Yes, you may drive in Australia as long as you have a valid foreign driving licence for up to 12 months. You must however, have a valid Australian licence after that period to continue driving in the country. Please visit the Department for Planning and Infrastructure for further licensing information.
Q28: Can I get insurance in Australia for my possessions? For example; car or house insurance?
A28: Yes. You can do a "Google search" or visit some of the following web sites for further information:
Q29: How safe is Perth? How safe is Australia?
A29: Perth is a beautiful city but like any other city in the world, you must ensure that you are smart about personal safety. Please speak to one of our International Student Support Officers (ISSO) to find out more about the "Australian lifestyle", culture and slang.
Here are some useful Perth links to acquaint you with Perth:
Q30: What happens if something of mine is stolen at the campus? For example; books, calculator, ipod etc?
A30: Lost and found properties are normally held at the Course Information Counter at the main entrance of each campus. You can also seek assistance from the International Student Office if you wish to lodge a police report.
Q31: What happens if I have to fly home for an emergency?
A31: Please see an International Student Support Officer (ISSO) before you leave or immediately upon your return.
Q32: How can I join community groups / religious groups, etc?
A32: Please talk to our Mentors, other students or drop into the International Student Office.
Q33: Special events on during the year? For example; "Skyworks", etc
A33: Please talk to our Mentors, other students or drop into the International Student Office.
Q34: Can I study and work in Australia at the same time?
A34: Yes, you can apply for permission to work once you have commenced your studies with us. However, you are only allowed to work a maximum of 20 hours per week during school term. Please speak to one of our International Student Support Officers (ISSO) to find out more. Note: that you should not depend on part-time /casual work to fund your tuition fees. Part-time/casual work should only supplement your leisure requirements.
Q35: Can someone help me look for part-time work?
A35: Yes. We have a job service at Challenger TAFE called "CareerConnect" where specialised staff will be able to assist you. Please speak to one of our International Student Support Officers (ISSO) to find out more.
Useful Links
Gumtree - Useful information on buying and selling good and services
Department for Planning and infrastructure - Information on obtaining an Australian driving licence
Education & Training International - For all fees enquiries
The West Australian Newspaper
Department of Immigration and Citizenship - For all student visa, working enquiries