First day at school: orientation and things to do

🔄 Cập nhật lần cuối: 08/10/26

The first day at school and orientation week are the first "doors" of the study abroad journey: you complete the admission procedures, receive your student card, get acquainted with the campus, meet your academic advisor and your first friends. Missing or skipping this week can cause you to delay course registration and lack required visa procedures. This article summarizes the things you need to do and the documents you need to prepare.

What is Orientation and why should you not miss it?

Orientation (also called O-Week, Welcome Week, Freshers' Week depending on the country) usually takes place one to two weeks before the semester starts. Many schools organize a separate session for international students. This is your time:

• Complete admission procedures, receive student card, email account and online learning system.
• Get guidance on academic regulations, academic integrity, and support services.
• Meet with an academic advisor, choose and register for subjects.
• Get to know friends, clubs, and Vietnamese student associations.

For F-1 students in the US, checking in with the international student office and participating in orientation is often a mandatory requirement before studying.

Before orientation: how soon?

Come at least a few days in advance to settle in, buy a SIM, and recover after the long flight. Note the entry time limit of each country: for example, F-1 students can only enter the US within 30 days before the program start date listed on the I-20, and should not arrive after this date.

Details on how to choose flight dates are in the article Choose a flight date to study abroad: How long before admission is reasonable? and page Admission schedule and time to book study abroad tickets. Where were you in the first days, who picked you up, and read the lessons? Airport pick up and accommodation for the first days.

Things to do this week orientation

The three most important life procedures are carefully guided in the article Open a bank account, buy insurance, register with a doctor.

Don't miss the session on academic integrity

The way of citing, doing group exercises, and using AI tools in assignments abroad may be much different than in Vietnam. Violations, even unintentional, can lead to serious consequences. Read more articles Studying abroad: how to study, take exams and avoid plagiarism.

Mandatory obligations for international students

Each country has its own regulations, but common ones include:

• Report address and contact information: in Australia, international students are usually required to update their address, phone number, email and emergency contact to the school within 7 days of arrival, and report any changes.
• Register your residence with local authorities in countries such as Japan, Korea, and Germany, usually within a short period of time after moving.
• Maintain full-time status, academic progress and attendance according to visa requirements.
• Maintain health insurance throughout your stay in the host country (e.g. OSHC in Australia).
• Do not work before your course starts (in Australia) and adhere to working hours limits.

Tips for integrating right from the first week

1. Participate in as many activities as possible: campus tours, club fairs, welcome parties.
2. Actively start conversations with classmates and housemates; Everyone is as confused as you.
3. Take a test route to class before the first class.
4. Save important phone numbers: school security, international office, clinic.
5. Don't just hang out with Vietnamese people: the Vietnamese student association is very helpful, but please expand your connections. See article Make friends and build a network of relationships while studying abroad.

A flight at the right time helps you get to your orientation on time without being in too much of a hurry. VeDuHoc's team of 30+ Bookers hunts for multi-carrier tickets according to the admission schedule, continues to monitor prices after you pay and refunds the difference if a better price is found, while optimizing 40–46kg checked baggage and 24/7 support throughout the journey.

Frequently asked questions

What if I arrive late or miss orientation?

Please notify the school as soon as possible. Some procedures can be made up, but in some countries (like the US), arriving after the program start date can cause problems with entry and with visa status.

Is Orientation mandatory?

Many schools require international students to attend a separate orientation session, especially the paperwork check-in section. Even if it's not required, you should participate fully.

What documents do I need to bring on the first day?

Passport, visa, admission letter/CoE/I-20/CAS, original degree and transcript, language certificate, insurance information, photo ID and residential address.

Should I work part-time in the first week?

You should prioritize stabilizing your studies and life first. Some countries do not allow working before the course begins.

Preparing carefully for orientation week will help you start confidently and smoothly. Wishing you a successful school year, and if you need flight advice, please contact VeDuHoc via hotline/Zalo 090.1800.918.

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