What is Freshers Week & Orientation?

Do you want to study abroad? Are you hoping to secure a significant scholarship or study grant? Studying overseas requires a lot of planning and preparation which can be a complex, time-consuming, and expensive undertaking. StudyOverseasNow.com are overseas education consultants that specialize in providing expert advice throughout the consultation and application process. We help students secure the best scholarships at the highest-ranked universities. Book a FREE Consultation with an experienced education & career counsellor to find out what overseas study options are available.

Freshers week is also referred to by the following names:

• O-Week

• Freshers Fair

• Orientation Week

• Welcome Week

• Frosh Week

This week takes place prior to the commencement of your studies. It’s an opportunity to meet with students, support staff, and academics where you are encouraged to take part in activities and events. Fresher’s fairs are rarely mandatory but we strongly advise all students to make an effort as this is a great opportunity to build friendships with your new classmates and lecturers.

In most instances Freshers week is for first-year students only; you will not be required to attend in subsequent years unless you are part of an organizing committee. For many students it will be their first time living away from home; therefore, building a strong network of peers to rely on provides support when required throughout the year. To get the most from student life all students are encouraged to join clubs, activities, and societies. Universities have several extra-curricular activities to select from. Activities range from chess, tennis, paragliding, football, skiing, and many more. Other societies exist to help you develop your network opportunities and bolster the soft skills required for job placements; these include, debating societies, presentation workshops, and networking clubs.

Freshers’ week allows students to familiarize themselves with their university surroundings and discover what facilities and opportunities are available. During freshers and orientation, you should complete the following items below: 

Enrol in Units & Timetabling

Most universities allow students to enrol in lectures, classes, and units during orientation. If you arrive late or fail to attend Freshers week it’s likely you won’t receive your first preference. This could result in a timetable that provides limited flexibility for part-time and requires attendance in the morning, afternoon, and evening classes throughout the week.

Tour of Campus

Students can tour the campus and discover what facilities are available. Overseas universities are often very large and span multiple campuses. Understanding the location and how to locate student support services if you encounter difficulties is important. In addition, the campus tour will identify where the library, gym, student union, accommodation, and other key areas are throughout the campus.

Student Union

A big part of university life is attending activities, events, socials, and societies. Students can sign-up for various clubs & societies during Freshers week. Some societies will have a limit on the number of students who can join; therefore, students are encouraged to arrive early to avoid disappointment. Please note, the jobs many students secure following their graduation result directly from their ability to network during their studies. Focusing purely on academics will not provide the necessary soft skills and networking opportunities required in a highly competitive job market.

Student Support &Opportunities 

The transition from your country of origin to an overseas study destination can present challenges along the way. All universities are equipped with staff whose primary job is to support students and offer advice when required. Most universities provide additional English and academic support sessions, these are often free of charge. Overseas study tours and exchange programs might exist where sign-up and prerequisite units are required. Do not miss this opportunity if available at your chosen university. If you encounter difficulties during your studies always seek advice early. If you fail a unit this can cost between $2,000 – $5,000 and will need to be repeated before course completion.

Student ID Card

During Fresher’s week, students will receive their student cards. This card will be required when accessing university facilities and taking part in activities and events throughout the campus. Try to memorize your student ID number for ease. Your student card should also entitle you to discounts when outside of the university; discounts might include, cinemas, food, clothing, and future holidays. Your student ID will only be valid for the duration of your course.

Opening Bank Account & Doctors

In some instances, students can open a bank account whilst overseas. However, for those where this is not possible at most Freshers fairs students will have the opportunity to meet representatives of banks and doctors’ surgeries where they can sign-up as a client. In both instances, money should not be required but valid identification including your passport, student visa, passport photo, and other important documents will be required.

We advise students once they complete their first year of study to actively participate in the Freshers week for newly enrolled students. Making students feel comfortable and offering help and advice in a language familiar to them will ease the transition to an unfamiliar environment.

Students should not arrive in-country earlier than the date permitted on their student visa. Depending on the study abroad destination students are permitted to arrive between 28-90 days prior to course commencement.

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I hope you found the information in our blog useful. StudyOverseasNow.com are overseas education consultants that specialize in providing expert advice throughout the consultation and application process. If you would like to study abroad and hope to secure a significant scholarship or study grant Book a FREE Consultation with an experienced education & career counsellor to find out what overseas study options are available. We look forward to helping you start your journey to a brighter future!