Policies and Procedures
You’re in! This Pre-Departure Page is your “one stop shop” for all the program-related information you will need to prepare for your program.
Check this page regularly! Information will be updated throughout the semester.
To stay on track, use the self-check at the end of each phase.
Your main point of contact is your Program Manager. You can find additional contacts such as on-site staff in the contact section.
Get to know the place you’ll be calling home for the next semester – including cultural customs, academic differences and daily life – in the “In-Country Guide”.
———– START PHASE ONE ———–
Submit Your Housing Questionnaire: in your Applicant Portal
Submit your Housing Questionnaire in your Applicant Portal
Please note, this form requires you to upload a passport-style photo for your student ID card. The photo must be an image of your entire upper-body from above your head down to your shoulders against a plain white wall. We accept photos you have taken on your smartphone, but the image must be a high-quality JPG file (at least 200 dpi). The name of the file should be your full name in the format “Last name, First name”. Photos that do not meet these requirements will not be accepted.
Please email busydney@bu.edu if you need to make any changes to these forms after you’ve submitted them. Housing assignments will be made upon arrival in Sydney. For more info, please check the Living Arrangements section of the Sydney website.
Apply to the University of Sydney: DUE OCT 10
Your provisional admittance to the BU Sydney Program is contingent on your acceptance to the University of Sydney. In early September, your Program Manager will nominate you to apply to the University of Sydney and you should receive an invitation to apply via email from the Kristin Johnson in the University of Sydney Study Abroad office.
Upon applying to the University of Sydney, you’ll indicate your elective course choices, and upon admission you’ll be eligible to apply for a student visa.
To apply, you will need a valid passport. If you do not have a passport, or if your passport is not valid for six months after the program ends, apply for one and email the program manager Megan DeBolt immediately. Expedited service is recommended.
Step 1 — Select the courses you will take at U of Sydney [Juniors ONLY]
You will automatically be enrolled in the required Australian Culture & Society course. But you will need to indicate your elective course choices (the courses you will take at the University of Sydney) on your application. Sophomore Engineering students will automatically be enrolled in their University of Sydney courses and should skip this section of the application.
Juniors should search for units of study by visiting the Sydney Courses unit of study page:
- Choose “Units of Study” from the drop-down list
- Enter your search term/keyword and click “Search”
- Click “Yes” for “Available to Study Abroad/Exchange” when the search results appear
Units of study at 1000-level through 4000-level are considered Undergraduate and units of study at 5000-level and above are considered Postgraduate. It can sometimes be tricky to find exactly the kind of units you’re looking for, so Kristin Johnson has prepared a “Unit of Study Searching Guide” to help students know which keywords/letters to use in case you want to search for other units of study. This guide explains that for example if you are interested in History, search for “HSTY” or if you’re interested in Marketing, search for “MKTG”, etc.
You must also be in contact with Carole Dutchka regarding any units of study that you wish to take to ensure that they will receive approval at BU and through the Engineering Department.
As a reminder, you will be looking for courses offered for Semester 1 (Spring). For a quick guide on the terminology used at the University of Sydney, please check out their glossary.
Step 2 — Prepare the following items:
- Notarized photocopy of the signature page of your passport. This is the page in your passport with your picture and personal details. The copy quality must be good. You can get the photocopy notarized by a notary public. The best places to find a public notary are banks, certain post offices, and some FedEx locations. Don’t forget that you will need to bring your actual passport and the photocopy with you to the notary public, as well as some money to pay for this service. You can also go to the Dean of Students Office during walk-in hours or make an appointment to get your document notarized.
- Official BU transcript. You can order one online on the Office of the University Registrar website, or obtain one in person at 881 Commonwealth Ave, second floor.
- List of preferred units of study [Juniors ONLY] – The units of study are typed directly into fields on the online application form.
Step 3 — Complete the online application form.
Kristin Johnson is the study abroad adviser at the University of Sydney, and she will email you with a link to the online application, and some helpful hints. If you have any questions about the application, feel free to email her directly: kristin.johnson@sydney.edu.au.
What’s Next?
After you’ve successfully applied to the University of Sydney, you will receive an email from Kristin Johnson with further instructions on how to accept your offer of admission. Once you’ve accepted the offer, she’ll send you an electronic “Confirmation of Enrolment” (eCoE) which is a code that will allow you to apply for a student visa. You cannot apply for a visa until you have an eCoE.
Review Flight and Arrival Information and Book Your Flight: DEC 1
Flight Information
Why should I book a spot on the group flight?
Each semester, we work with Advantage Travel to offer an optional group flight, round-trip from California (depart U.S. JAN 6th) to Sydney. Although airfare is not included in the cost of the program, all travel booked through Advantage Travel will be monitored by the travel agency on the day of departure, and they will be able to assist with any schedule changes, delays, or missed connections. The flight also allows you to travel with other students from the program. Students are not required to take the group flight.
All students, however, are required to submit a round-trip itinerary for our records using the independent flight form. If you plan to book an independent flight please keep in mind that late arrivals and early departures are not permitted.
*Please Note: Boston University Sydney does not provide transportation to the airport for the return flight from Australia to the US.
How do I reserve a seat on the group flight?
Specific booking instructions and detailed group flight itineraries will be emailed directly to students.
What if I need to book a connecting flight to the departure city?
If you will be traveling from elsewhere prior to the group flight, Advantage Travel can also assist you with reserving a flight to the departure city.
What if I want to arrange my own travel?
If you prefer to travel independently from the group, you are welcome to do so. You can make a reservation completely on your own or Advantage Travel can assist you with reservations from a different airport or on different dates. You must arrive by JAN 8 (depart the US Jan 6) at 9 am and depart on JUN 25. Housing will not be provided before or after these dates, and late arrivals/early departures are not permitted. Once you have confirmed your independent travel, you must submit the independent flight form by DEC 1.
Arrival Information
Students on the group flight will be met by on-site staff upon arrival and transportation will be provided to the residence.
If you make travel arrangements independent of the group, you should try to arrive at the same time as the group flight (or prior to it), so that you can meet the group at the airport and take the group transportation.
If you will be traveling independently and will be arriving after the group flight, you will be responsible for securing your own transportation to the residence.
Instructions for commuting to the residence center by taxi and other forms of public transportation will be sent via email prior to your departure for the program. Once you have confirmed your independent travel, you must submit the independent flight form DEC 1.
*Please Note: Boston University Sydney does not provide transportation to the airport for the return flight from Australia to the US.
Submit Your Visa Application: Due OCT 23
After you have completed the University of Sydney application process and been accepted, you will receive your eCoE (electronic confirmation of enrollment).
Once you obtain your eCoE you can begin the process of applying for your visa. You will apply online for the Student Visa subclass 500 visa (Visa Example here: 500 Visa application example). You can read more about the Student subclass 500 visa, and begin your application on the Australian Department of Immigration website. Make sure that you read through the information about the eligibility requirements and application process before you actually submit your visa application.
Helpful tips for applying:
– The required documents vary by country. Refer to Step 2 in the Step by Step guide on this page to view a list of the documents you will need.
– A “certified copy” means that the document should be notarized. You can find a notary public by doing a quick search of “notary near me,” or you can visit the BU Dean of Students Office for notary services.
– You will need the Confirmation of Enrolment (eCoE) in order to apply. You will receive this after completing your online application to the University of Sydney.
– Skip any non-applicable documents, such as employment history if you haven’t worked.
– Skip Form 956A .
– You may be asked to type the OSHC start date/end date and policy number into the visa application. You can refer to the eCoE for the start & end date of the OSHC policy. Your policy number will be your 9-digit USyd student ID# immediately followed by the letters US.
– This visa can take about 4 months or longer to process, so please be sure to submit your visa application as soon as possible.
– The Genuine Temporary Entrant requirement is a brief statement to say that you are returning to your country of residence to finish your degree at home.
You can start your visa, save it and return to the application. The visa fee starts at $1,058.08 USD, though prices may vary, dependent on your citizenship and the date of application submission. You must submit your visa application no later than NOV 1. If you have questions about your application after it is lodged, you can contact:
Department of Home Affairs
Global Service Centre +612 6196 0196
In some cases, if an applicant has been previously diagnosed with tuberculosis (TB) OR has visited a country within the last 5 years that is deemed by the Australian government to be a medium- or high-risk country for TB, they may be required to undergo a medical exam. This usually involves a chest x-ray and/or medical checkup, and it can cost up to $500 USD. If you are required to complete this test, you’ll be notified AFTER you’ve submitted your application, and you will need to arrange the appointment immediately. Unfortunately, if you’re required to undergo the exam, there’s no way around this; you will not be granted a visa if you do not complete it.
Please note: This information has been prepared by Boston University Study Abroad based on the most recent information provided by the relevant immigration agency (E.G. consulate, embassy, etc.). It is each student’s responsibility to compile the necessary documents and apply for their visa based on their specific citizenship. Visas are granted by foreign governments only, Boston University does not play a role in visa issuance, nor can we influence immigration policy. While we do our best to keep instructions as up-to-date as possible, visa requirements are subject to change without our knowledge. Ultimately obtaining a visa in a timely manner, and any related costs incurred, are a student’s responsibility. Failure to acquire a visa will preclude participation in the program.
Review Academic Information & Select Courses: As soon as possible
Sophomore Engineering Program: You will be automatically enrolled in:
- CAS AN 368: Australian Culture & Society
- CAS MA 226: Differential Equations
- ENG EK 307: Electric Circuits
- ENG EK 490: Internship
You will have also elected to enroll in 1 of the following electives in your Study Abroad Application:
- ENG BE 209: Principles of Molecular Cell Biology & Biotechnology
- ENG EC 311: Introduction to Logic Design
- ENG ME 305: Mechanics of Materials
- Optional Additional elective:
- HUB SA 220: Cultures in Context: A BU HUB Study Abroad Experience
Academic Internships
Students on the Sophomore Engineering Program are required to participate in a credit-bearing internship. Internships are arranged by the University of Sydney and are typically research focused. The Engineering internship is optional for the Jr. Engineering Program.
For those that undertake an internship, you will be working with the staff at the University of Sydney for your internship placement after you are admitted to the university. You will need to submit an Australian-style CV (Résumé): Follow these Instructions & Sample.
Jr. Engineering Program: You will automatically be enrolled in AN 368. After you are admitted to the University of Sydney, you will be contacted by their staff to discuss registering for courses. You will enroll in 3 elective courses at the University of Sydney and you should be prepared with 9 courses as options, which you will need approved by your academic advisor.
It is your responsibility to research how the courses taken abroad apply towards your overall academic requirements and progress toward your degree. Visiting students should be certain you understand how courses you take with BU Study Abroad will transfer to your home institution.
Complete the Phase 1 Self Check
Have you completed everything in Phase 1? Here is a self-check to make sure you’re on the right track. Make sure you’re keeping track of any upcoming deadlines and budgeting enough time to complete them on-time. If you missed a deadline, be sure to check in with your Program Manager and complete that task right away.
You should have completed:
- Submitted the Housing Questionnaire – in your Applicant Portal
- Applied to the University of Sydney – OCT 10
- Apply for your visa – OCT 23
- Review Flight and Arrival Information and Book Your Flight: DEC 1
———– END PHASE ONE ———–
———– START PHASE TWO ———–
Pre-Departure Meeting: DEC 7
PRE-DEPARTURE MEETING
A required pre-departure meeting for all students will take place in-person on Saturday, December 7th. Participation details, including the schedule and location, will be emailed by your Program Manager. This orientation will include important information to prepare you for your semester abroad and will also give you time and space to meet the other students studying in your program. Students who are not in the Boston area will be able to join via Zoom. A Zoom link will be shared via email prior to the pre-departure meeting to those who do not attend BU.
All students are required to participate. This meeting is intended to give you an overview of daily life, culture, health and safety, and academics on your program. You will also have the opportunity to ask your Program Manager any questions about what to expect as you prepare for your time abroad.
For those students that are unable to make the specified time, please email your Program Manager.
Please also note that this meeting is intended for participants of the program only. Due to FERPA (Family Educational Rights & Privacy Act), parents/guardians are not permitted to attend this session. We do, however, encourage you to share relevant information about the program with your parents, as we understand that they may be curious about what to expect from your experience abroad.
University of Sydney to BU Grade Conversions
CONVERSION CHART
The grades you earn from the University of Sydney will be different from the grades that you will be awarded on your BU transcript. You can view the conversion chart here.
Complete the Phase 2 Self Check
Have you completed everything in Phases 1 and 2? Here is a self-check to make sure you’re on the right track. Make sure you’re keeping track of any upcoming deadlines and budgeting enough time to complete them on-time. If you missed a deadline, be sure to check in with your Program Manager and complete that task right away.
You should have completed:
(From Phase 1)
- Submitted the Housing Questionnaire – in your Applicant Portal
- Applied to the University of Sydney – OCT 10
- Apply for your visa – OCT 23
- Review Flight and Arrival Information and Book Your Flight: DEC 1
(From Phase 2)
- Attended your Pre-departure Conference – DEC 7
———– END PHASE TWO ———–
———– START PHASE THREE ———–
Mobile Phones & Internet Access
Phones:
All students must have a local Australian mobile number throughout your time in Sydney. It is important for Sydney based staff and faculty to be able to contact you on an Australian mobile phone number. Upon arrival, affordable mobile phone options, sim cards, and contract-free pre-paid phone plans will be available for you to purchase.
If you are planning to bring a phone from home, this phone must have a sim card slot and be unlocked in order to use it with an Australian service provider. We advise against purchasing an international plan through a US service provider.
An “unlocked” phone means one that can be used overseas with ANY service provider (not just AT&T or Verizon etc.). You will need to call your phone provider and request to have your phone “unlocked” so that you can use it with an Australian sim card. If your US-based service provider is unwilling to unlock your phone as it is in contract, bring an unlocked and out of contract mobile with you instead.
Keep in mind that all calls (even calls from overseas) to an Australian mobile number are charged to the caller.
CALLING CODES:
- Australia’s country code is 61
- Dialing internationally from Australia: 0011 + country code (USA is 1) + area code + number
- Dialing a landline in NSW Australia from US: 011 + 61 + 2 + number
- Dialing a mobile phone in Australia from US: 011 + 61 + 4 + number
iPhone tip: If you have an iPhone, you can keep your American phone on airplane mode but still contact friends and family back home using iMessage or FaceTime when using WiFi.
Internet:
You will have WiFi access in the BU building. Many cafes, restaurants, and public places also have WiFi.
Packing List and Tips
Please reference BU Sydney’s “What to Bring” list.
*Kindly note that your packing will be restricted by airline regulations. If you must leave something behind, you’ll most likely be able to find it in Sydney.
Withdrawals: Deadline DEC 31
Have You Changed Your Mind?
If you are considering withdrawing from your Study Abroad program, please thoroughly review the Boston University Study Abroad Policy on Refunds. Please keep in mind that at any time after your admission to the program there may be non-recoverable costs associated with withdrawing from the program. Examples of non-recoverable costs for which you may be financially responsible may include, but are not limited to, charges related to housing, flights, academics, internships, or program-related activities.
It is important to note that the program starts on January 8 (departing the US January 6) and is more than 12 weeks long. The last day to notify our office in writing of your withdrawal prior to being responsible for a portion of the program fee is December 31. Please contact your Program Manager(mdebolt@bu.edu) and abroad@bu.edu if you decide to withdraw or have additional questions. Please note: the Study Abroad office will be closed for intersession from Friday December 20th – January 2nd, so if you decide to withdraw during this time, the request will not be processed until the first week of January 2025.
Complete the Phase 3 Self Check
Have you completed everything in Phases 1, 2 and 3? Here is a self-check to make sure you’re on the right track. Make sure you’re keeping track of any upcoming deadlines and budgeting enough time to complete them on-time. If you missed a deadline, be sure to check in with you Program Manager and complete that task right away.
You should have completed:
(From Phase 1)
- Submitted the Housing Questionnaire – in your Applicant Portal
- Applied to the University of Sydney – OCT 10
- Apply for your visa – OCT 23
- Review Flight and Arrival Information and Book Your Flight: DEC 1
(From Phase 2)
- Attended your Pre-departure Conference – DEC 7
(From Phase 3)
- Called your bank and credit card companies to let them know you’ll be studying abroad.
- Decided what your plan is for a mobile phone number abroad. Be sure to get it unlocked at least a week ahead of departure.
- Settled your Boston University Student Account – Billing Deadline
———– END PHASE THREE ———–
———– START CONTACT ———–
Program Contacts
As you prepare for and embark on your study abroad experience, you will be in contact with various staff members from BU Study Abroad, both in Boston and abroad. To avoid missing important information, please add “@bu.edu” to your address book. Please keep all emails in a folder for your reference as you prepare for your semester abroad. Here are the names and email addresses of some people who will be in touch with you this semester, and/or whom you may want to contact with questions.
Boston-based Staff
Megan DeBolt, Program Manager, will be your primary contact during the pre-departure process.
Sydney-based Staff
Merryn (busydney@bu.edu), Student Services Coordinator. You can contact site staff for any changes in your Internship or Housing forms or general questions about life on site in Sydney. Site Staff will be sending you pre-departure preparation emails.
To see the full Sydney staff listings, please see the BU Sydney Program Staff & Faculty page of the Sydney website.
Kristin Johnson, Senior Study Abroad Adviser, University of Sydney – Kristin will be your main University of Sydney contact. She is not a BU staff member. You may hear from her during the application process to University of Sydney, and can contact her with questions about courses, etc.
———– END CONTACT ———–
———– START CALENDAR ———–
The Spring 2025 Sydney Engineering Programs run from Jan 8 (depart U.S. on Jan 6) to June 25.
Neither late arrivals nor early departures are permitted. We urge students to not make any weekend or mid-semester break travel plans until they arrive on site and receive the finalized course and program schedule. During the semester, students must fulfill strict attendance requirements and will be very busy with classes, program activities, and assignments. If family and friends plan to visit, please schedule trips to take place before the start of on-site orientation, during a scheduled program break, or after the semester ends. The first and last weeks of the program are critical to students’ success and require your full attention. By timing visits to coincide with scheduled program breaks, you can meet attendance requirements and take full advantage of your study abroad experience.
Tentative Academic Calendar
| Group Flight Departure | Jan 6 |
| Arrive in Sydney | Jan 8 |
| Orientation | Jan 8 – Jan 12 |
| AN 368 Course Begins | Jan 14 |
| Australia Day (public holiday) | Jan 26 |
| Australia Day (Observed) | Jan 27 |
| University of Sydney Orientation | Feb 17 – Feb 21 |
| Final Exam AN 368 | Feb 21 |
| University of Sydney Classes Begin | Feb 24 |
| MA 226 Course Begins | March 5 |
| Good Friday & Easter Monday (Public Holidays) | April 18 & April 21 |
| Mid-Semester Break | April 21 – April 25 |
| Anzac Day | April 25 |
| Lectures End | May 30 |
| Exam Study Period | June 2 – June 6 |
| King’s Birthday | June 9 |
| Exam Period | June 10 – June 21 |
| Program Departure Day | June 25 |
———– END CALENDAR ———–
———– START GUIDE ———–
[--- In-Country Guide ---]
1. Get To Know Australia!
History, Geography and Politics
Welcome to Sydney! You’ve chosen to study in a city known for it’s beautiful beaches, bustling city-life and rich culture. To begin learning about Sydney and the rest of Australia, (the land “Down Unda”), check out some of the useful resources below:
- Sydney’s History – City of Sydney
- Aboriginal Culture – Aboriginal Culture in Australia
- Sydney History and POI’s
- Geography of Greater Sydney
- Geography of Australia – Australia’s Guide
- Politics – Understanding Australia
Local news, readings and culture
News
During your time in Australia it is important to keep up-to-date with the local news and events in Sydney. Listed below are some informative Australian news sources. Additionally, once you arrive in Sydney you will start receiving BU Sydney’s newsletter (The SydneySider Quay). This newsletter will be your guide to exciting events and attractions happening in Sydney.
Readings: Top Australian Novels
Culture
Australian culture is predominately Western, but generally more laid-back, open, and direct.
Although the “Aussies” speak English, you may find that you are more culturally different than you thought. Here are some cultural tips from Commisceo Global:
- Mates: Australians place a high value on loyalty and friendship.
- Multi-cultural society: Australia started with Aboriginals, then gained the British and Irish, and after WWII, there was a large migration of many more Europeans and Middle-Easterners. In the past 30 years, there has been an influx of South East Asian immigrants.
- Direct communication: Aussies tend to be more direct with their communication, so don’t be offended by this style of communication at your internship!
- Aussie Modesty: Australians value authenticity and humbleness, and they tend not to draw attention to their academic/professional achievements.
Food & Dining
Dining at Home
The neighborhood grocery stores offer a wide variety to suit every taste. Woolworths, located on the lower ground level of the Central Park Mall, is the closest grocery store to the BU Sydney building in Chippendale. Woolies (as the locals call it) is a modern grocery store complete with a bakeshop, fresh produce section, as well as a wide range of prepared foods.
Coles, located on the ground level of the Broadway Shopping Centre, is another great option for grocery shopping. Just a ten-minute walk away, Coles features everything from fresh produce and meat, to greeting cards and cleaning supplies. Arguably larger than Woolies, Coles has a wider variety of products offered.
You will receive a neighborhood tour during on-site orientation that will provide you with a thorough understanding of your food shopping options!
Dining Out
With fresh fruit and vegetables available year-round, plentiful seafood, and hundreds of hip, inexpensive restaurants, Sydney’s restaurants will please even the fussiest eaters. Cafés and restaurants along Glebe Point Road are a favorite with Sydney Uni students. Newtown is a short bus ride away and is another popular destination for lunch or dinner. Whether you are in the mood for Vietnamese, African, Korean, or Indian food, you are certain to find a Newtown restaurant to suit your budget. Darling Harbour restaurants attract a largely tourist crowd and are a short walk away. With its mix of Italian, Japanese, Malaysian, and seafood restaurants, Darling Harbour is another good option for dinner. Grab a seat at any of the dozens of outdoor cafés and settle in for some serious people watching.
Housing
Accommodations
Most BU Sydney students are housed in the accommodation located alongside the classroom/administrative office facilities. Room information and keys will be made available when you arrive in Australia. Each student will be housed in a 3-4 bedroom suite with each student having their own bedroom in addition to the shared bathrooms, kitchen, and living areas. Bed linens, a pillow, and a towel are provided for each student. Beach towels are not included.
Please note that housing is not available with Boston University either before the program begins, or after the program ends. If you plan to extend your stay in Sydney then you will need to arrange your own accommodation.
For photos of the residence please click here. For more information on the living arrangements please refer to the BU Sydney website here.
*Junior Engineering and Business students should consult the Program Manager to inquire about housing assignments.
Room Assignments
The Sydney Program attracts students who are eager to participate in a cultural experience and acquire work experience in their chosen fields of study. In keeping with this mission, the site houses students from several different disciplines and colleges. Whether you are majoring in theatre arts, politics, or business, you should expect to share your room with individuals from diverse academic specialties and backgrounds. With storage space at a premium, you will need to think creatively about storing your belongings. The Sydney Program does not have adequate space to store luggage for students who travel either before the start or after the program ends. Information about area self-storage services is available upon request from the Sydney Office.
Linen
Bed linen includes a bottom sheet, a mattress protector, a pillow and pillowcase, a European-style comforter with cover commonly referred to as a doona. You are responsible for laundering your own bedding. Bath and kitchen towels are supplied; beach towels are not.
Electricity
Mastering the nuances of Australian electricity is just one of the skills you will learn during your semester in Sydney. Electricity in Australia is 240 volts, which is more than twice the voltage used in the US. For more information on electricity, please visit the BU Sydney website.
Residential Policies
Students on the Boston University’s Sydney Program are subject to BU policies, procedures, and codes of conduct as well as any local ordinances and laws.
- Students are prohibited from engaging in conduct in or about the residence facility, which poses a threat to the health or safety of persons or property, which interferes with the rights and well-being of others, or which violates any provision of the Code of Student Responsibilities or any other rule/regulation of the University or any other applicable law.
- The University reserves the right to dismiss any student from the program for failure to maintain a satisfactory academic record, for unacceptable personal behavior, or for other reasons of health, safety, or welfare of the University community.
- BU Sydney Study Abroad housing does not permit overnight guests.
Room Condition, Cleanliness, and Maintenance
Shortly after check-in, you will receive an inventory of room furnishings known as a Room Condition Report or RCR. Prepared by the Residential and Property Manager, the RCR documents the condition of your room and furnishings, and any pre-existing damage. The RCR is an important document for it is the primary reference when assessing damage charges upon completion of the program. Please review the room inventory, note any items that the Residential and Property Manager may have missed, sign and date the form, and return it to them.
If maintenance or repairs are required in your room, please contact the Residential and Property Manager. All students are required to leave their accommodation clean and in good condition at the conclusion of their stay. Damages to University furnishings or property should be reported so that any repair and/or replacement costs can be settled before you leave. Fines will be imposed for any rooms left in poor condition. Failure to comply with any of the check-out procedures may result in additional charges or withholding of final grades.
Guest Policy
The BU Sydney Program runs a strict guest policy for the comfort and safety of all residents. A foundation of this guest policy is that guests are only permitted with the consent of a resident’s roommate(s). A curfew will apply between the hours of 10:00pm and 8:00am whereby no overnight guest is allowed in BU facilities. Students are responsible for the conduct of their visitors. This policy applies to all family, friends, and relatives who visit you during your stay; they must respect and comply with all rules and regulations when in and about program housing. Any breach of this policy by a guest or visitor shall be deemed a breach by the resident. Penalties for violation of the guest policy will require disciplinary action, including referring the matter to judicial affairs and expulsion from the program. If friends or relatives plan to visit at any point during your stay, please arrange for them to stay at a hotel or hostel and book reservations well in advance. Sydney accommodations range from five-star, luxury hotels to inexpensive hostels catering to students and backpackers. A listing of area accommodations is available upon request from the Sydney Office.
Smoking
All program facilities and residences are smoke-free. Smoking is strictly prohibited in student rooms, classrooms, offices, and all common areas. The use of non-tobacco products (e.g., clove and herbal cigarettes) is also prohibited. Vaping is not allowed within the BU Sydney Residence.
Securing Your Room
Each student is encouraged to review their family's personal property insurance coverage. Boston University or any of its officers, agents or representatives shall not be liable directly or indirectly for loss and/or damage to personal property by fire, theft, or other cause. Specialized student insurance can also be purchased through various agents if household insurance does not provide adequate coverage. Please note that computers should be insured for their full value and include coverage for peripherals like external disc drives. Common sense, more than anything else, will prevent theft and enhance personal safety. By exercising care and good judgments, you can protect your belongings from theft. Some helpful reminders include:
- Do not keep large amounts of cash in your room or on your person.
- Lock your room door every time you leave the room.
- Do not attach your key to a tag or ID that includes your address.
Consideration for Roommates
A roommate or friend should know how to reach you at all times. If you will be away from your residence overnight, be sure to inform your roommate so that he or she will not worry. Likewise, if you plan to travel outside of Sydney share your itinerary with your roommate(s) and ensure that they have a contact number where you can be reached. Furthermore, be sure to notify the Residential and Properties Manager by email. Someone should know where to reach you at all times. Although students in the Sydney Program are drawn from a variety of colleges and universities from across the US, all share a common goal to have a successful semester abroad. Little annoyances can mushroom into big problems if they are not addressed promptly. You are expected to keep lines of communication open with your roommate(s). Some tips to help you get along include:
- Keep a good attitude and remember that you are not in Sydney for the housing.
- Don’t be compelled to be best mates with your roommate. Your roommate may have a different lifestyle than yours and may have different expectations for their semester abroad.
- Academic matters take priority in the room.
- Do not borrow anything or eat your roommates’ food without permission.
- Try to be neat and confine your belongings to your "territory."
- Discuss any problems as they arise.
- Seek advice from the program staff if you cannot resolve problems on your own.
Dress
When packing for your semester in Australia, keep in mind that the seasons are reversed in the Southern Hemisphere. A detailed guide of what to bring with you can be found on the BU Sydney website here.
Pack lightly
Closet space in your Sydney room is limited so try to be economical when choosing what to bring. If you over pack and exceed your airline’s luggage weight restrictions, you may be charged additional fees. Some students recommend that you leave half of your suitcase empty for souvenirs and items purchased over the semester. During your orientation you will be led on a tour of the local area which will include the closest shopping mall where you'll be able to purchase additional items you may not have brought with you.
Skin Protection
As you will discover, the sun is more intense in the Southern Hemisphere. Australia has the highest incidence of skin cancer worldwide and, ironically, is also a leader in treating the disease. The Australian Cancer Society’s "Slip, Slop, Slap" campaign warns Aussies to slip on a hat, slop on sunscreen, and slap on a pair of sunglasses whenever venturing outdoors. Even if you are someone who normally does not sunburn easily, you should wear SPF15 protection all the time. If you are fair-skinned, be sure to slop on a coat of SPF30, especially in the early evening hours when the sun continues to burn hot. The Australians beat the heat by wearing large brim hats. Follow their example and wear a hat whenever you are in the sun. Also, remember to reapply sunblock, especially if you are outdoors or on the beach for the entire day (i.e. surf camp).
Helpful Language Tips, Phrases and Greetings
G’day mate!: Hello!
Arvo: Afternoon
How ya going?: How are you?
Ta: Thank you
Barbie: BBQ
Heaps: A lot
Good onya: Well done!
Exy: expensive
2. Student Life
Facilities
Library
The Boston University Sydney Academic Centre offers a variety of library resources to support your studies in Australia. The library’s materials, in general, focus on the Australian context of individual topics and will be very helpful for your studies in Sydney. For more information, please visit the Library page of the BU Sydney website.
Textbooks
You will not be required to purchase textbooks or school materials prior to your arrival. The Boston University Sydney Program uses the Blackboard system for readings and resources for each of its courses. You will need to know your BU Login Name and Kerberos Password to access these. Whatever you need for class (notepads, pens, etc.), you can find in Sydney!
Internships
The internship placement and interview process will be explained in great detail during on-site orientation in Sydney. To help the placement process along, be sure to reference the Internship Form section on the Phase 1: First Things First tab of this webpage. The Internship Form contains the below internship agreement and will be the Internship Team’s first point of reference as the placement process begins. Be sure to complete it on time, carefully, and thoughtfully.
Internship Agreement
The BU Sydney Internship Advisors devote a great deal of time and energy into identifying and cultivating suitable internship placements, maintaining close relationships with internship supervisors, and matching students to placements in a careful and considered manner. Because the efforts that will be made to place you are significant and because important alliances can be damaged when expectations are not met, it is important that you understand and accept your responsibilities as a student participating in a BU Sydney Internship Program.
- I understand that internships are dependent on the opportunities available at the time of the placement as well as on my previous experience and qualifications.
- I understand that Boston University Study Abroad cannot guarantee my first choice internship, but every effort will be made to find me a placement within the track that I was admitted to. A number of factors may be in play at any given time that may be cause for some compromise. I will endeavor to be flexible, realistic, respectful, and open-minded throughout the placement process.
- I understand that the goal is always to find the best internship experience, not the biggest corporate name. In order for my internship advisor to find a placement that will be a good fit for me, I must be able to articulate what kind of organization and work functions I would most like to pursue. I understand that due to the nature of the program, I will not be able to “shop” for a placement or interview at multiple sites.
- I understand that all BU Sydney internships are unpaid and that receiving compensation would violate the terms of my Australian visa.
- I understand that Sydney is a large city and that I will need to spend time each day commuting to my internship. I will be responsible for paying for my own transportation costs, which may amount to as much as $50AUD per week.
- I understand that by participating in this program, I am an emissary of Boston University and the United States, and that I must conduct myself in a professional manner at all times. I am expected to demonstrate courtesy, punctuality, initiative, cooperative attitude, proper grooming habits, honesty, and a willingness to learn.
- I understand that 100% attendance is expected at my internship. In the event that I need to miss my internship due to illness, I will inform both my BU advisor and internship site immediately. I will also provide my BU advisor with a doctor’s certificate. Under no circumstances will I request time off or a variation to my schedule without first conferring with my BU advisor. Tardiness and absences will be noted on an evaluation form completed by the site, and may have a negative impact on my grade.
- I understand that despite best efforts, my internship might not exactly meet my expectations. My acceptance of the offer of an internship constitutes a commitment on my part to persevere through difficult periods. There may be tasks that I find unpalatable or boring, or days where there is too little or too much work to do. The emphasis should always be on how I can best assist the organization, and not on how much fun or stimulation the organization is providing me. The primary aim of the internship is to put me into an environment where I can have a rewarding cultural experience, contribute to an organization, meet Australians, and have some personal or professional successes.
**Students on the Engineering programs have a different internship process, working with the University of Sydney for placements. Engineering students will not use the internship agreement with BU Sydney.
Academic Culture
Students on the Sydney Internship, Sydney Film Festival & Internship, Sydney Travel Writing & Internship, Sydney Study Abroad, and Sydney Wheelock Education Programs will only be taking courses with other students from the program, thus maintaining a US-American-style classroom culture.
Students on the Sydney STEM/Engineering Programs and Business Internship Program will be taking courses at the University of Sydney with local students and other international students. Courses will be conducted following the Australian classroom structure
3. Money Matters
Banking and Currency
For advice on managing your money while in Sydney, visit the Money Matters tab of the BU Sydney website.
Cash for Departure
If you travel to New Zealand, Fiji, and other South Pacific destinations during your stay, you will be required to pay a departure tax before you board your return flight. Although the departure fees vary, you should expect to pay roughly US$25. The departure tax for Australia is included in your round-trip ticket.
Tipping
Australia is not a tipping-culture, like the US, though tipping for good service is becoming increasingly popular. Many restaurants and pubs will have a tip jar, though it is not obligatory to put anything in. It is much more popular in tourist destinations/neighborhoods in Australia to tip.
Australia On a Budget
It is possible to study in Sydney without “breaking the bank.” With going to such a beautiful, outdoorsy location, you’ll be able to find many activities to keep you busy without spending much. Check out Lonely Planet’s 24 Fantastic Free Things To Do In Sydney.
4. Traveling
Local Transportation
Sydney has a great public transportation network of buses, ferries, and trains. The Boston University Sydney Academic Center is a short walk from Railway Square and Central Railway Station. From Railway Square and the Central Railway Station you will have no problem exploring your way through Sydney and its many wonderful neighborhoods. For more information on local transportation, click here. Local transportation will also be discussed in detail at on-site orientation.
Personal Travel
During your time in Sydney, you are encouraged to explore the surrounding areas, both in and around Sydney as well as internationally. The Beyond Sydney page of the BU Sydney website will give you a better idea of some of the great options for personal travel in Australia and beyond.
Kindly note that personal travel must not interfere with classes or your internship.
The BU Sydney staff can offer lots of great travel recommendations and the office contains free information pamphlets you are welcome to enjoy as well.
5. Staying Healthy
What To Do If You Get Sick
If you fall ill during your time in Sydney, no need to fear! Information about insurance, doctors, emergency medical care, and local pharmacies will be covered in detail during on-site orientation. All students participating in a BU Sydney program are automatically enrolled in comprehensive health coverage provided by GeoBlue. In addition to GeoBlue, students can also access health and security risk management services through International SOS (ISOS). ISOS and GeoBlue have a relationship whereby ISOS can assist students in locating required health services which GeoBlue will cover expenses for. In the occurrence of a medical emergency in Sydney, students should call emergency services on 000, and if travelling overseas during their program then ISOS should be contacted. For more information, please reference the following section of the BU Sydney website.
The BU Sydney staff is a wonderful resource for all things health-related.
Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle
It is very possible to maintain a healthy lifestyle while in Sydney. Students on a BU Sydney program are offered a discounted gym membership at Sydney Uni Sport & Fitness. Just a short walk away, Sydney Uni Sport & Fitness offers you an amazing range of facilities. For those interested, sign-ups will take place during on-site orientation. For more information, please visit their website.
Additionally, since you have a full kitchen, you will have the opportunity to go grocery shopping and make healthy meals. Many students on the program like to cook together. This could be a great opportunity to try out Australian recipes!
Health and Culture
Australians tend to be quite active, so this could be an opportunity to learn a new sport and embrace the adventurous lifestyle! Some popular sports and activities in Australia:
- Rugby
- Surfing
- Hiking
- Snorkeling
- Camping
- Sandboarding
6. Staying Safe
Local Embassy
Keeping Yourself Safe In Sydney
- Police, Ambulance, Fire Brigade in Australia: 000
- Royal Prince Alfred Hospital (closest hospital to BUSAC): 02 9515 6111
- BU Sydney Office Number (daytime): 02 8396 7300
- Residential & Properties Manager: 0425 277 942 (after hours)
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Academic Policies for Students Directly Enrolling in Courses at a Foreign University
As a student who will be directly enrolled in one or more courses at a foreign university, you are subject to a set of specific policies that apply to your classes, credits, and grades on this program. You are expected to be familiar with these policies before going abroad. Please read the academic policies below and make sure you understand them fully. You may download a copy of these policies here. Contact your Program Manager if you have any questions.
ACADEMIC POLICIES FOR STUDENTS DIRECTLY ENROLLING IN COURSES AT A FOREIGN UNIVERSITY
You will be enrolled in a course or courses at a university whose policies, teaching methods, and grading systems will differ from Boston University’s. Please read the policies outlined below very carefully and refer to your program-specific informational materials, which may include additional policies that modify or supplement the below.
- Full-time status. You are required to maintain full-time student status, equivalent to 12 or more BU credits per semester, while abroad. You may need to take more than 12 credits at your host university in order to earn the equivalent of 12 BU credits. Some foreign universities require that you take more than 12 BU credits in order to meet their requirements for full-time status.
- BU degree progress. You are responsible for verifying with your department in advance how the classes you take abroad will apply towards your major or minor degree requirements. An Academic Worksheet is available to you for this purpose.
- Auditing classes. You are not permitted to audit classes while studying abroad.
- Registering for final exams. Some universities abroad require students to register in advance for their final exams. It is your responsibility to know whether you need to register for your final exam, and to do so by the deadline. At some universities abroad, failure to register for or take a final exam results in a failing grade for that course. Although some universities abroad allow their matriculated students more than one opportunity to sit for final exams, BU Study Abroad program participants will sit the final exam only once.
- Grading Conversion and Credit Transfer. It is a student’s responsibility to understand the grading system and grade conversion scale for their host university courses. Some courses offered abroad may carry fewer than four credits.
- Grades and transcripts. Boston University cannot edit, modify or changein any way the final grades that are issued by your host institution and indicated on your host university transcript. Any questions regarding your grades should be directed to your host university faculty. All grades assigned to you by the host institution will be recorded on your BU transcript and all grades earned abroad will be factored into your GPA. You cannot opt to omit courses taken abroad and/or grades earned abroad from your BU transcript.
- Pass/Fail. No credit will be given to courses taken Pass/Fail.
- Withdrawals. If you withdraw from one of your classes abroad and a ‘W’ appears on your host university transcript, that ‘W’ will also appear on your BU transcript. However, a grade of ‘W’ will not be recorded on your transcript retroactively and post-program.
- Incompletes and Failing Grades. No grades of ‘Incomplete’ will be given; all coursework must be completed with your host institution, including the completion of all final exams before the end date of your program. You will also receive an ‘F’ on your BU transcript for any class that is ‘Incomplete’ on your host institution transcript. A failing grade earned in a class taken abroad will appear on your transcript as an ‘F’ and will count towards your GPA. In keeping with BU academic policy, you will not earn academic credit for incomplete or failed courses even though the grades appear on your transcript and impact your GPA.
Boston University Study Abroad reserves the right to rescind admission to or continuation in any program if an applicant’s academic or disciplinary record is not satisfactory. Boston University students placed on expulsion, academic suspension, or residence separation are not eligible to participate for the duration of the sanction. Deferred separation status will be reviewed on a case by case basis. Non-Boston University students are expected to verify their eligibility to study abroad with their home institution. In addition, your Boston University student account must be in good standing. University policy requires the withholding of educational services, including participation in a BU Study Abroad program from any student whose financial obligations to the university are due and/or unpaid. In completing your online pre-departure forms, there are a number of terms and conditions that you have agreed to by your electronic signature. In addition, some policies are stated on our website and linked below. We suggest that you review the following with your family, parent/guardian or other interested party: All students should thoroughly review the Boston University Study Abroad Policy on Refunds. This policy applies to all students and should be thoughtfully read when considering a withdrawal from a program. If you have questions, please contact our office. All students should review the Boston University Study Abroad Privacy Notice.The Fine Print: Policies and Procedures
Academic, Disciplinary and Financial Standing
Students’ Responsibilities While Abroad
Policy on Refunds
Privacy Notice
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