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Frequently asked questions

What is a certified copy?

A certified copy is a copy of a document that has been endorsed and signed by an authority figure – a solicitor, lawyer, Justice of the Peace or a Notary Public – as being a true copy of the original document. The endorsement should be in the following form:

"I certify that this is a true copy of the original document"

  • The endorsement must be followed by the name and the signature of the person who endorsed it and the date.
  • A family member cannot certify a document.
  • Senior members of Medical School can certify documents. Any document certified by a senior Medical School member must include the name and position of that Medical School member, and carry the University stamp or seal.
  • Any document not properly certified will be rejected.
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What kind of visa will I need?

You are advised to contact the nearest Australian Consul. We are not permitted to advise you on visa requirements as these can differ from place to place. We recommend that you apply for your visa promptly as approval can take time. The location of Immigration Offices outside Australia can be found on the Department of Immigration and Citizenship website.

Please contact your nearest Australian Consul or check the Department of Immigration and Citizenship website if you are interested in nominations for an Occupational Trainee Visa.

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"Rights and Duties" Statements

Elective students from other institutions are unable to have the same rights and duties as students enrolled in the Sydney Medical Program. The fourth stage of our medical program is tailored to our own requirements and may not correspond with those of your own institution. While welcome to attend our lectures, participation in small group sessions is limited.

Most of your time during the elective period should be spent in ward or clinic attachments in association with Stage three students doing their Integrated Clinical Attachments. Clinically, elective students have the same rights and duties as our own students.

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Does four weeks equal a 30 day elective?

Electives are measured in weeks. A four week elective equals 28 days while a five week elective equals 35 days. Check how flexible your own University is on this ruling.

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What if I am sick during my elective and have to have time off?

Being unable to attend your clinical school for two days or more will require you to show a Doctor's certificate. Check these requirements with your own University.

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Where do I go on my first day?

An elective coordinator will contact you at least a week prior to your starting your elective and arrange the time and place that you are to meet at.

Please do not be late without prior arrangement – you may be turned away or your elective cancelled.

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What do I wear?

As a medical student you will be involved in day-to day interactions with patients, members of the public, and members of the medical staff. These interactions may involve discussion of sensitive issues and the performance of a range of clinical duties. Thus while attending the ward, clinics or general practice your dress and general appearance should be appropriate to the environment.

As a guide, a medical student must appear well groomed and professional.

  • Your official hospital ID badge must be prominently displayed at all times to ensure that your status as a student is clear.
  • Males are expected to wear a shirt and tie.
  • Females are expected to dress modestly, avoiding tops that are low-cut or bare the midriff. Short skirts are also inappropriate.
    Jeans and trainers are not acceptable items of clothing. Sandals or open toe shoes are inappropriate in clinical areas as sharp objects may pierce the foot.
  • Theatre scrubs are only worn in designated areas and are provided by the hospital.
  • If there are any special dress requirements, you will be informed by your hospital.
  • A white coat is not necessary.

Australia is a multicultural society and you should consider the sensitivity of other people.

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Can I get student concession on public transport?

Concession travel is not available to elective students. However, an International student ID card will give you access to a network of specialist student travel offices around the world and valuable savings on accommodation, tours and transportation (such as a 40% discount on full adult ordinary fares on Countrylink train or coach services). Applications forms for the ISIC are available at the STA and SRC offices in the Wentworth Building.

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Can I get a refund or postpone my elective?

The application, administrative & enrolment of clinical school elective fees are non-refundable, unless you can provide good cause for cancelling, then a refund may be considered only for the clinical elective fee.

Should you notify your nominated clinical school 6 months in advance, you may receive back 50% (no need for medical certificate).
Should you notify your nominated clinical school 3 months in advance, you may receive back 50% (must provide medical certificate).

Requests are considered on a case by case basis and require supporting documentation.

Postponing your elective may be possible and is subject to local availability determined by each clinical school.
Please note that you will need to provide evidence in support of your application where appropriate at least 3 months in advance.

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How can I find accommodation?

You might like to check our page about Studying@Sydney > Accommodation.

Some hospitals can offer limited accommodation to overseas students who stay for long periods of time and may be able to assist in organizing home-stays near the hospital.

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