Pre-Arrival Guide

Pre-Arrival Guide for International Students

Prepare for success at AIHM with everything you need to know before you land in Australia.

Arriving in a new country is a big step—and we’re here to help you make a confident, informed start to your studies in Perth. This guide outlines everything you should know and prepare before you leave home, from confirming your visa to understanding local life and what to bring.

As a CRICOS-registered provider, AIHM is committed to ensuring that international students are well-informed, supported, and ready for academic and cultural success. The better prepared you are, the smoother your transition will be.

Whether it’s your first time overseas or you’ve studied abroad before, this page is designed to help you navigate key areas like travel, accommodation, finances, healthcare, and cultural adjustment. You’ll also find key links and contact information should you need help along the way.

Visa Ready? We’ll Help You Prepare

We guide you on CoE requirements, health cover, and student visa essentials.

Plan Life Before Class Starts

From airport to what to pack—we help you arrive ready, not rushed.

What to Do Before You Arrive

✈️ 1. Accept Your Offer & Confirm Enrolment

Sign and return your Letter of Offer and Student Agreement.
Pay the deposit outlined in your invoice.
Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for your student visa.

📄 2. Apply for Your Student Visa (Subclass 500)

Use your CoE to apply through the Australian Government visa portal.
You’ll need to show sufficient funds, OSHC (health cover), and English proficiency.

🛡 3. Organise Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)

Required for the full duration of your stay in Australia.
You can arrange it yourself or ask AIHM to assist during enrolment.

🧳 4. Prepare for Travel

Book your flights early.
Pack essentials, including original documents, clothing, prescription medications, and adaptors.
Check Australia’s customs and quarantine laws for restricted items.

🏠 5. Arrange Accommodation

Choose from homestay, student apartments, or shared housing.
AIHM can connect you with local accommodation services if needed.

💳 6. Understand Finances

Open an Australian bank account upon arrival.
Carry AUD$1,500–$2,500 for initial expenses (bond, food, transport).
Budget for weekly costs (~AUD$400–$600/week depending on lifestyle).

📱 7. Stay Connected

Have a working international phone or buy an Australian SIM on arrival.
Set up email access and keep important contact details handy:
- AIHM Support: support@aihm.au
- Reception: Available on arrival for local help

Download Our Full Pre-Arrival Checklist (PDF)

📥 Pre-Arrival Checklist for International Students (PDF)