International student arrival pilot plan

Study NSW and its travel partner FCM provide detailed information about the Pilot Plan on their websites. We ask that you please review their information, along with the FAQs on this page and the information that has been provided in your Expression of Interest email.

During the pilot stage, numbers are limited. We understand University of Newcastle allocation to be around eight students per flight initially.

Given numbers allowed by the initial program (a total of 250 for all NSW universities per flight) are quite small, the University of Newcastle will prioritise the return of continuing international students who need to complete physical components of their studies, including internship placements, to progress or graduate, as well as those students who are close to completion.

Unfortunately, the pilot is only currently accepting students who began their studies onshore. We understand you may be disappointed that you cannot participate in the pilot. The University will continue to provide online classes and support for those who are unable to commence or resume their studies this year in NSW, while working with government partners to find ways for more international students to return to NSW in due course. More information on the pilot can be found on the Study NSW website.

From 1 December 2021, fully vaccinated international students can return to Sydney and NSW without the need to apply for a travel exemption or stay in quarantine, in line with the Australian Government announcement of 22 November 2021. More information is available on the Study NSW website.

All costs associated with travel will be borne by returning students. Specific details about the exact costs involved will be communicated directly to students but you can find indicative pricing on the FCM website.

You are responsible for finding accommodation in Newcastle, but the University can help. More information on the options that are available to you can be found here.

The FCM Travel website provides information on the next steps of the pilot. If you are selected to participate in the pilot, you will receive an outcome via your student email address.

Please read the Terms and Conditions here.

If you have any further questions, please email them to international-arrivals@newcastle.edu.au

The global pandemic has had an undeniable impact on our students. The University is committed to doing everything we can to support you and there is a range of support services, resources and events available to support you while you study from overseas, including:

• Wellbeing resources - Taking care of your mental health is a critical skill that will help you navigate your way through life – both as a student and beyond.
• Learning resources - Whether you’re struggling with your workload, don’t fully understand the content, or just think your marks could improve but aren’t sure how, there are a range of online resources and programs available.
• Library resources - The Library has a range of eResources and online tools to assist with studying off campus.
• Peer mentors - Our peer mentors are not only for new students. They are also available to connect with all students through our Peer Mentoring app. You get to choose the student mentor who's right for you based on their personal bios, including information about what program they're studying. Once you match with a mentor you can connect via instant chat or in-app catch-ups.