Your Frequently Asked Questions
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Our Frequently Asked Questions are here to answer any questions you might have about studying at Greenwich. Choose a category to find the help you need.
Course Questions
What time should I arrive at the College on my first day?
What will I do on my first day at Greenwich English College?
Will I have access to computers?
Do I need to buy extra textbooks?
How much will my English improve?
Can I take a holiday during my studies?
Living in Australia Questions
Do I need to have Health Cover/Insurance?
Can't find what you're looking for? Ask us a question.
What time should I arrive at the College on my first day?
Day students should arrive at 8.30am and evening students should arrive at 4:00pm on Monday.
Please remember to check your email inbox for more details about your orientation day the week before your course starts. Please also remember to bring the following:
- Passport
- Pen and notebook
- Water
What will I do on my first day at Greenwich College?
Registration and Orientation sessions are generally held on Fridays during which students will receive important information and will be given their English books and class allocation if they have already taken their English Placement Test. Students who haven't done their English Placement Test will have to take the test first in order to receive their class allocation and books. The first day of class is then the following Monday. At some campuses, the registration and orientation sessions are held on Mondays following the same procedures.
Will I have access to computers?
Do I need to buy extra textbooks?
All textbooks are included in your “Materials Fees”, so you will not need to pay for any more books throughout your course.
How much will my English improve?
This varies for every student. On average, students studying English courses at Greenwich College move from one level to the next in approximately 8-10 weeks. If you work hard and speak only English while you are here, you should improve quickly. It is always best to talk to your teacher about your progression.
Can I take a holiday during my studies?
Holiday leave will only be granted under special circumstances. You must submit a written request to be approved by the College management.
Who will help me if I have a problem?
Everyone at Greenwich College wants your time at the College and in Australia to be a memorable learning experience so we are here to help. Our Student Advisors are always available and can offer counselling in your own language.
Are there extra classes I can study?
Yes, we offer Speaking Club Monday to Thursday from 3.10pm to 4pm. On Thursdays, if you have grammar questions, you can go to HELP CLUB and get extra support. We also offer elective classes for day students on Fridays and you can choose to study a variety of courses or go out on an excursion and explore the city you live in with your classmates and a teacher.
Do I need to have Health Cover/Insurance?
It is a Student Visa condition that you have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay in Australia. OSHC will contribute towards medical and hospital expenses that you may incur.
Greenwich can arrange your OSHC with Medibank International for you at the time of application. Please note this on your enrolment form.
Can I work in Australia while I study?
International students in Australia on a Student visa (with work rights) can work up to 24 hours per week. Those on a Working Holiday visa are permitted to work full-time whilst in Australia. Find out more about work rights at the Department of Immigration.
I need help finding a job.
Join Career Hub! This Friday elective is offered on the first Friday of every month and is designed to get you ready to enter the Australian job market. You can also join Professional Speaking Club every Thursday from 3.10pm to 4pm. This free class focuses on spoken English in the workplace.