International Students Prepare to arrive JCU Arrival Service
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JCU provides a free arrival service for new international students arriving in Cairns and Townsville at the beginning of each semester/trimester.
At James Cook University (JCU), we are dedicated to ensuring a smooth transition for our new international students arriving in Cairns and Townsville.
Our complimentary arrival service, available throughout the year, provides a stress- free arrival to JCU at the beginning of each semester and trimester. Upon arrival at the local airport, train station, or bus terminal, you will be collected and transported to your pre-arranged accommodation, whether on campus or at a private residence.
Additionally, we offer valuable information to help you easily settle into your new city. Our aim is to make your arrival as comfortable and stress-free as possible, setting you up for a successful start to your academic journey at JCU.
It is recommended to plan your arrival for the week prior to Orientation week to allow time to settle in, complete the arrival process at the JCU Student Centre, and prepare for Orientation.
The JCU team will be at Cairns & Townsville airport the Wednesday & Thursday prior to Orientation week to greet you on arrival between 8.30am & 3.30pm AEST.
Please note that we require three business days (e.g. Monday to Friday, excluding weekends) notice of your booking.
Before travelling
If you are a Townsville Campus student and your flight arrives at the Cairns International Airport, you need to make your own travel arrangements between Cairns and Townsville.
Qantas, Virgin Australia, Greyhound Australia and Queensland Rail offer transport between Cairns and Townsville.
As the services transport you to your accommodation, ensure you have arranged your temporary or permanent accommodation before booking an Arrival Service.
Students staying in one of JCU’s Halls of Residence should ensure they advise the hall of their expected arrival time once their travel arrangements are confirmed.
On arrival at JCU
Once you arrive at the Cairns or Townsville Campus you will need to check-in at JCU's Student Centre (Building A1 in Cairns and Building 134 in Townsville).
Alternative local transport services
Townsville and Cairns both have reliable taxi services.
A taxi meter is used and will determine the cost of your travel:
- Townsville airport to JCU: approximately AUD$40
- Cairns airport to the city centre: approximately AUD$30
There are taxis available which service all arrival ports in Cairns and Townsville.
- Cairns Airport shuttles: Cairns Airport Connections, Excellence Coaches
- Cairns Taxis
- Townsville Taxis
- Uber Australia
More information
For more information, contact enquiries@jcu.edu.au