What to expect during Orientation Week as an international student?

Now that you've arrived in a new country with your heavy suitcases, it’s completely normal to feel a bit overwhelmed! Rest assured, every international student has been through this and come out stronger. Your dream of pursuing education abroad will fuel you throughout your journey. While the place and people may seem different at first, everything will fall into place in due time.

The first week in your new destination is crucial—it can shape your entire experience. This is where orientation week comes into play, so don’t miss out if your university offers a curated one! Orientation week covers everything from academics to social life, and it’s the perfect opportunity to make new friends and settle in.

Before all of that, make sure your accommodations are all set. Whether you're staying in university-provided housing or off-campus, double-check that everything is confirmed, like move-in dates, access to utilities, and any documentation needed for your stay. It’ll make your transition smoother and let you focus on the exciting things ahead.

University is a whole new world compared to school. Everything from how subjects are approached to the grading system will likely be different. During orientation week, you’ll receive an in-depth briefing on your course and the various specialisations you can choose as you progress. It might feel overwhelming at first, but don’t worry! Make sure to take notes and pictures of key slides—they’ll come in handy as you familiarise yourself with the system. Pay close attention to the grading system and other important academic details, as this will be crucial down the line. Additionally, you'll be introduced to a student counsellor who will be there to guide you through the entire course. Be sure to keep in touch with them as they can share vital information that will help you clear with flying colours.

To make the most of your dream education, your health and well-being come first. During orientation week, you will be introduced to the local healthcare system and provided with important information about your health insurance, just in case you need it down the road. You will also learn about various resources and support forums designed to help you adjust to life in a new country. These services can assist with everything from language learning to offering a space to discuss any challenges you might face, or simply to spend time with others.

Additionally, your university will have a legal team to help with all the paperwork you might need for visa processing and other official documents. Be sure to stay in touch with them, as they can be incredibly helpful when you need them most.

What’s university life without a little fun? It is time to channel your inner explorer and dive into the exciting culture around you! During orientation week, you will meet people from all over the globe—talk about an international squad! You will also get the scoop on cool local spots to check out and must-see places to visit. This is your golden chance to break the ice and make some new friends. Who knows? Your new bestie—or even your future soul mate—could be sitting right next to you. Don’t hold yourself back. Volunteer in activities of your interest so that you can bring your magic to things and also learn a trick or two from your peers.

Every step you take is part of an exciting adventure that will shape not only your education but also your personal growth. So, take full advantage of everything orientation has to offer, stay open-minded, and enjoy every moment of this new chapter. Before you know it, this new place will feel like home, and you’ll be well on your way to achieving your dreams. Welcome to your journey!

Get in touch with IDP experts for all your study abroad queries!

Jayanthi Raghunathan is a communication specialist at the IDP Chennai office. She manages IELTS change and communications as part of the Digital Adoption Team. She has previously managed many global projects and has been an integral part in their successful launch. Her goal is to drive clear and effective communication to support our ongoing initiatives.