The Australian University Survival Guide

The only complete resource for overseas students studying in Australia.
All the information you need to get the most out of your Australian university experience.

Pop quiz!

Take this little quiz for fun! (answers are below the questions in white text, highlight them with your mouse for the answer.)

How much do textbooks cost for students in Australia?
Normally there are four subjects per semester.
Each subject has one textbook.
Each textbook can cost between $100 - $190
So it could cost you $400 - $760 per semester!
That's between $2,400 - $4,560 for a simple three year batchelor degree!

How should you address your lecturer or tutor?
Typically you should call them by their first name, unless you are in a formal situation.

Are lectures compulsory in Australia?
In a word, no. It is technically possible to get a degree without attending a single lecture, although you should attend lectures.

How can you use the above information to maximise your grades at uni?
Sorry! You'll have to buy the book for this answer!

Content

The guide contains the handbook, which includes:

Information on Australia, everyday Australians and Australian students:

Insight into the minds of Australians and Australian students
Work ethic of Australian students
Guide on Australian English including informal language and slang
Censorship in Australia
Environment and climate

Information on Australian universities:

University etiquette
Information about semester lengths and timing
Information on enrolment, textbooks, student associations, etc.
Pros and cons of university accommodation

Healthy living in Australia:

Food and meals
Information and practical advice on alcohol and drug use
Rules about smoking and the Australian perception of smoking
Advice on how to keep safe on the streets
Dealing with the sun
Health cover for international students

An honest look at touchy subjects that universities and governments don’t mention:

Australian’s attitude towards religion and tolerance
Sexuality and current perceptions in Australia
Racism in Australia
Loopholes you can take advantage of to get more marks
Tips to deal with the bureaucracies within universities.
Dealing with academics

How to avoid awkward situations:

Cultural taboos (things you should not talk about)
Standards of grooming and hygiene
Acceptable clothing in specific situations

Practical advice on living:

Basic driving rules and driver’s license information
Helpful information about public transport
Workplace rights
Information and advice on getting VISAs, permanent residency or citizenship
How mobile phone and internet plans work
How to find a suitable place to live and the processes of applying for tenancy
How to get a bank account and control your finances

Tips on how to improve your marks:

What lecturers and tutors are looking for in a student
Tips to give you a head start in tutorial enrolments
Information about graduate study including how to choose the right supervisor
What makes a good presentation in Australia

Help on socialising and making friends:

What Australians are looking for in a friend
Tips on choosing an Australian name
Advice on how to network
How to introduce yourself, acceptable levels of physical contact, etc

and more...

PLUS an audiobook of the entire guide, spoken by one of the authors in an Australian accent to help with correct pronunciation.

PLUS a bonus CD of 17 podcasts covering other topics like:

Sharehouse arrangements
Job interviews
Appropriate volumes of voice for certain situations
Up to date political issues
and more.

Your course costs tens of thousands of dollars, your textbooks will be hundreds of dollars every semester, this unique advantage sill set you apart.

E-pack including e-book and downloadable mp3s:
$59.95 AUD or

100% refund if not satisfied