International Students Prepare to arrive

Prepare to arrive

We know that moving to a new country for your studies can feel both exciting and overwhelming. To help you get started, we recommend using JCU's Pre-departure Guide for International Students, which is designed to support you every step of the way.

Important Pre-departure Arrangements

After you accept your offer to study at James Cook University (JCU), there are some important steps to complete to ensure a smooth start to your studies. Follow the checklist below:

  • Apply for Your Student Visa
    Once you receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), you must apply for your student visa. Make sure you understand your visa conditions, including any work restrictions, to plan your time in Australia effectively.
  • Organise Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
    It is mandatory for international students to have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of their studies. Details about your chosen OSHC will be included in your CoE. You must finalise your OSHC before applying for your visa.
  • Attend the Pre-departure Webinar
    Join the pre-departure webinar hosted by JCU's Student Support Team to get answers to your questions and ensure you’re fully prepared for your journey.
  • Arrange Accommodation
    Decide whether to live on-campus or off-campus and secure your accommodation as early as possible. If you plan to arrange long-term accommodation after arriving in Cairns or Townsville, book temporary accommodation for your first few nights in Australia.
  • Open a Bank Account
    Consider setting up an Australian bank account before arriving. This will give you immediate access to funds and simplify expenses during your travel and upon arrival.

Funding your studies

Studying at JCU is an investment in your future. Be prepared by understanding all costs associated with your studies, including tuition fees, health insurance, and living expenses such as groceries, utilities, transport, and entertainment.

Planning a detailed budget will help you manage your finances and enjoy your time in Australia.

Tuition fee information is available on the individual course pages. Remember to select the international tab on the course page to view the international fees.

Browse the courses here.

Incidental fees are compulsory purchases at an additional cost which are not covered by your tuition fees.

These often vary depending on your degree and can include compulsory purchase items, like uniforms or safety equipment, or course related activities like field trips.

For course-specific information, visit the detailed Incidental and Administration Fees page.

This is an Australian Government fee charged to all students at Australian universities. The funds are used to provide a range of student support services and facilities.

To find the specific rate for your period of study, and for more information, visit the Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSA Fee) page.

OSHC is health insurance to assist international students in meeting the costs of medical and hospital care that they may need while in Australia. International students must hold OSHC for the duration of their stay in Australia, as a condition of their student visa.

For specific information visit Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).

In addition to fees and overseas health cover, the day-to-day cost of living is an important consideration when preparing to study as an international student.

Living expenses can vary significantly depending on your lifestyle choices, personal preferences, and location. Townsville and Cairns are regional cities and can offer a more affordable cost of living when compared to the larger cities in Australia.

While they don’t directly list Townsville and Cairns, these handy cost of living calculators can help you build an approximate budget for the duration of your studies.

Below is an overview of common expenses to use as a general guide when you budget for your stay in Townsville or Cairns. The expenses are based on estimated 2024 prices.

Accommodation

Townsville

Location

Property Type

Average Weekly Rent (in AUD)

On-campus

Five residences offering a range of accommodation options

$220 to $535

Off-campus in Douglas

Room in Share House

$180 to $240 (incl. utilities)

1 Bedroom unit or house

$240 to $450

2 Bedroom unit or house

$320 to $480

Off-campus in other suburbs

Room in Share House

$180 to $300 (incl. utilities)

1 Bedroom unit or house

$240 to $400

2 Bedroom unit or house

$350 to $500

Cairns

Location

Property Type

Average Weekly Rent (in AUD)

On-campus

John Grey Hall

$206 to $285

Off-campus in Smithfield

Room in Share House

$150 to $240 (incl. utilities)

1 Bedroom unit or house

$350 to $480

2 Bedroom unit or house

$400 to $560

Off-campus in other suburbs

Room in Share House

$150 to $300 (incl. utilities)

1 Bedroom unit or house

$300 to $600

2 Bedroom unit or house

$330 to $480

Other Living costs (1 person household)

Expense

Average cost per week (in AUD)

Public Transport – Weekly student pass*

$10 - $20

Car related costs (incl. fuel, insurance & maintenance)

$100 - $280

Groceries / Eating out**

$50 - $200

Electricity and/or gas

$30 - $70

Phone and Internet

$20 - $50

Entertainment**

$50 - $150

*All students are eligible for a student discount sticker which can be obtained at the student centre.

**Some examples for average expenses include:

  • Coffee - $5.50
  • Fast food - $15
  • Restaurant meal - $25
  • Student movie ticket – $18
  • Weekly gym membership - $20

Arriving in Australia

Here are some final steps and resources to ensure you are ready for life at JCU:

  • Book Your Flights Early
    Plan to arrive in time for the mandatory International Student Orientation for your intake.
  • Pack Thoughtfully
    Consider your campus location and the program you’re studying when deciding what to bring. While most essentials are available in Australia, ensure you don’t leave important items behind.
  • Check Customs Requirements
    Refer to the Studying in Australia guide for information about customs regulations, including restricted items and tips for smooth border clearance.
  • Organise Your Free Arrival Transfer
    JCU provides a free pick-up service for new international students arriving in Cairns or Townsville. This service is available from the airport, bus terminal, or train station to your accommodation. Book your arrival service here.
  • Download the Sonder App This multilingual safety and wellbeing app connects you with support 24/7. Sonder can help you navigate unexpected situations and provide peace of mind that assistance is always available. Download the App here.
  • Explore Student Employment Opportunities
    If you plan to work while studying, visit JCU Careers and Employment for job listings, resume templates, and workshops designed to help you succeed.
  • Plan for Childcare and Schooling (if applicable)
    If you are bringing your family to Australia, research childcare and schooling options to ensure a smooth transition for everyone.

Need Help?

The support doesn’t stop once you arrive! At JCU, the Student Centre is here to help you navigate university life, including choosing subjects, preparing for exams, and finding your way around campus.

Explore our wide range of international student services and connect with our International Team for ongoing support.

We’re here to help you succeed!