The combination of being in a different country and the beginning of university life can be challenging and even overwhelming. Homesickness and culture shock, hassles with accommodation, English language, loneliness and isolation, pressure from family at home to achieve and adjusting to what is sometimes a very different academic system are just some of the issues faced by international students. Sometimes these issues lead to problems with academic progress.
The Student Union Advocacy Service can provide independent, free and confidential advice and referral to international undergraduate and graduate students facing the above sorts of issues. Advocacy Service staff can advise on academic progress meetings, how to make a complaint, the academic misconduct process, communication with the University, harassment, and a range of other issues. If you are not satisfied with—or are unsure what to do about about—actions taken (or not taken) by the University, see the Advocacy Service for independent advice.
The University of Melbourne has a responsibility to provide support services to international students. The University must comply with 15 Standards for registered providers set out in the National Code 2007. Information about the standards can be found at the Australian Government’s Australian Education International website.
The Melbourne University Overseas Students Service is also a great source of social support and representation for international students.
The University provides support for international students and their families through International Student Services. You can also visit International Student Services with questions about visa-related matters, welfare and for general support. Their office is in the Baldwin Spencer Building at the Parkville campus. However, it is worth remembering that the Student Union Advocacy Service can give you independent advice.
International Advocacy Brochure in English, Indonesian, Mandarin and Japanese 333KB
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Posted Monday 30 January, 2012. Updated Tuesday 18 September, 2012.