Arriving in Sydney

Once we have finalised your application we will send you a pre-arrival guide containing helpful information for when you arrive in Sydney. You can also download this pack from our download library.

When should I arrive?

You should aim to arrive a few days before your starting date in order to familiarise yourself with the College and local surroundings. If you need pre-arranged accommodation, our friendly student service staff can organise an affordable place for you to stay, either in homestay or in other student accommodation.

Immigration control

On arrival in Australia travellers other than Australian and New Zealand citizens need to present the following documents to Immigration for clearance – make sure you have them ready when you get off the plane:
• a valid passport
• a valid visa or authority to enter Australia (including electronic visas)
• a completed and signed Incoming Passenger Card, including health and character declaration
For more information please visit the Department of Home Affairs

Quarantine

Australia has strict quarantine laws. You must not bring any food or drink into Australia without declaring it on arrival. Make sure you find out what you can and cannot bring into Australia before you leave home. Read about it here: What can I bring to Australia

Changing money

You may need to change some money before you leave the airport. The locations of the money exchange facilities are shown on the map on the next page, marked $, near the NSW International Student Welcome Desk. If possible, wait until you reach the city centre to change your money as you will get a much better exchange rate.

How to get to Universal English College

When you arrive in Sydney you will land at the international airport, known as Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport International. Universal English College is located in the centre of the city. It will take you about 20-30 minutes to travel to our school or the city of Sydney from the airport.

If you are staying with one of our homestay families or other selected accommodation organised by us, and have requested airport transfer, our driver will greet you at the airport.

If you have not chosen airport pick-up, you can travel by train, bus, taxi, rideshare or shuttle to the city or your accommodation.

For further information on the public transport options available, please click on the relevant links below:

  • Airport Link – a 15-minute train ride to the city centre
  • Buses – Private airport shuttle buses operate to city hotels and hostels.
  • Rideshare and taxis – Rideshare pick-ups are now available at Sydney Airport.

For Opal Card and Public Transport Information, please crik here

Download UEC Pre Arrival Guide 2020

UEC