SGSCC International Student Info and FAQ's
Student Info & FAQs
As a small boutique college SGSCC International prides itself on providing excellent student service. From a student’s first day, when they have a thorough orientation and assessment, all staff is there to assist students in every way possible. Our student services staff can also speak a number of languages. The college participates in local events to help students feel a part of the community. In addition, the college organises social activities from time to time.
Homestay
If students want an economical way to live and participate in the Australian community and culture then SGSCC International recommends students to consider homestay. A furnished room and meals are provided. Living in an environment like this is an excellent way to practise your English. Homestay can be arranged on application with our Homestay Coordinator.
Airport Transfer
Students may be stressed arriving in a different country and culture for the first time. If a new arrival needs to be picked up and transferred to their accommodation then this can be arranged. Alternatively taxis or trains are easily accessible at the airport.
Support and guidance
Staff are always available to assist students in times of stress or pressure during your course. Students may talk to their teacher, or make an appointment at any time to see the Academic Manager for confidential information or advice on:
• Class allocations
• Subjects you have completed
• Subjects you need to undertake
• Assessments
• Results
• Coping with stress
• Attendance and overseas student health cover
• Ways of managing your time
• Assistance with the setting and achieving of your goals
• Tutorial support and assistance
SGSCC International also provides guidance with looking for accommodation and work including workshops on writing resumes and cover letter for job seeking.
Academic and welfare counselling
SGSCC International has experienced and friendly staff who are there to assist students at any time during their studies at the college.
• Academic and welfare guidance can be provided on general day to day basis.
• Should there be welfare issues that require expert advice then qualified counsellors can be accessed to provide assistance and support.
• Specialist advice on academic questions can be provided internally and through support individuals and organisations that are external to the college.
Travel and Health Insurance
It is an Australian Government condition that any student that enters Australia on a student visa must be insured by Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) even if you have you own private medical insurance. It is strongly recommended that all students arrange travel insurance (against loss, damage, theft etc.) before travelling to Australia.
For your health insurance needs while in Australia, we recommend you visit this website: www.oshcworldcare.com.au
Payment can be made through SGSCC International together with your enrolment fees.
The National Code
SGSCC International follows Australia’s laws that promote quality education and consumer protection for overseas students. These laws are known as the ESOS framework and they include the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act 2000 and the National Code 2007
http://www.aei.gov.au/regulatory-information/Education-Services-for-Overseas-Students-ESOS-Legislative-Framework/ESOS-Act/Pages/default.aspx
Visa Information
Student Visa: Should a student wish to study in Australia for more than 12 weeks they need to apply for a student visa. Whilst on a student visa that student must study in a full time course, which is a minimum of twenty hours per week. Under student visa, the maximum allowable working hours is 20 hours per week.
Tourist/Visitor Visa: If a student plans to study in Australia for 12 weeks or less they can apply for a tourist/visitor visa. Tourist/visitor visas do not allow you to undertake paid employment.
Working Holiday Visa: If you come to Australia on a working holiday visa you may study for a maximum of 17 weeks.
For further information visit www.immi.gov.au
Accommodation and Airport Pickup
To avoid disappointment students should ensure that they book their entire length of homestay required. There is a possibility that an extension will not be possible at a later date. Students should supply their confirmed flight arrival details at least 2 weeks prior to arrival. Student homestay details will be provided after their payment and flight details have been received. Airport pickup can be arranged with advance notice at least 2 weeks prior to arrival.
General Expenses
Approximate living expenses to live comfortably in Australia are estimated to be A$18,000 per annum. Airfares, visa costs, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) and tuition fees will be additional.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the climate like in Sydney?
Sydney is in the southern hemisphere: if you are from the northern hemisphere, remember that the seasons are reversed. Our hottest months are December to February, during the southern summer. In summer, the temperature can reach the high 30s on a bad day, and will occasionally drop down to 17 at night, but the summer temperatures are more typically somewhere in the twenties. In winter, the temperature can go as low as 5 degrees. Generally winter temperatures are around 15 degrees.
What type of food is available?
Sydney is a cosmopolitan city and there is a vast variety of international cuisines. Typically in a food-court you will be able to get Aussie steaks, sandwiches, fish and chips, burgers alongside Thai, Chinese, Malaysian, Lebanese, Portuguese, Italian, Indian, Nepalese, etc.
In multicultural Sydney there are shops to purchase typical provisions from your country to cook.
What food can I bring into Australia?
Be careful as Australian customs have strict laws with regards to bringing in fresh food, fruits and seeds into the country. Please check the website for details: http://www.customs.gov.au/site/page4351.asp
What will I study during lessons?
All lessons use a range of materials from a course book with extra supplementary materials in the form of worksheets and photocopies. These materials will develop your English in all skill areas including Listening, Speaking, Reading and Writing. You will also be able to improve you vocabulary and pronunciation; learn about Australian culture and history; learn Australian expressions and idioms – all the while having fun.
What are the rules for attendance?
Under Student visa requirements, you will be required to attend at least 80% of your classes during the period of your enrolment. If your attendance falls below 90%, the College will issue you with a warning letter to remind you of the importance placed on attendance requirements by the Australian government and by SGSCC International.
What if I am sick?
If you are sick for more than a day you should go and see a doctor, even if your illness does not require you to take prescription medicines. You should ask your doctor to give you a medical certificate for your absence. This may be used as evidence in case your attendance drops below 80%. If in doubt you can ask the teacher at the College or speak to the Academic Manager.
What can I do if I have a problem?
If you have a problem, you should talk to a friend or another student or any of the College staff – your teacher, or the Academic Manager. We are all here to help you with whatever matter, no matter how big or small – so just ask! If the person you talk to cannot help you, they will refer you to another person who can. If you need to talk to an independent person then you can talk to the Student Services.
What do I need to do if I move house?
Under Australian government immigration regulations for student visa holders it is a requirement that you tell the College if you have changed any of your contact details such as address or telephone number within 14 days of the change. Even so, it is very important that all students notify the College so that we always have your current details. This ensures that we can continue to care for you and to notify you of any important matters.
Can I work while on a student visa?
Yes, but you are only allowed to work up to 20 hours per week. For further information, please refer to DIAC’s website : http://www.immi.gov.au/students/_pdf/permission-to-work-students.pdf
How can I enrol?
1. Send your completed enrolment form to your SGSCC International official representative or directly to SGSCC International.
2. SGSCC International will acknowledge your application and provide an invoice and a letter of offer
3. Upon receipt of the invoice, please send full fees in Australian dollars, including all related fees, to SGSCC International’s bank account:
Bank: Commonwealth Bank of Australia
Branch: Hurstville, New South Wales
Bank, State, and Branch number (BSB): 06 2184
Account number: 00908492
Account name: St. George and Sutherland Community College
4. If you are applying for a student visa an electronic Confirmation of Enrolment (eCoE) will be issued. Take the CoE, and any additional documents, to the Australian Embassy in your country to apply for a student visa
5. For tourist and working holiday visas, upon receipt of fees, SGSCC International will complete your enrolment and send a receipt and confirmation letter.
For further information contact us on +61 2 9528 3344 or enquiries@sgscc.edu.au.