INTERNATIONAL
Guide for offer holders UNDERgraduate International Student Information pack 2012
Contents 2 About your offer 4 Accommodation 10
College teaching dates for 2012-13 Registration week: 17-21 September 2012 Autumn term: 24 September to 14 December 2012 Spring term: 7 January to 29 March 2013 Summer term: 29 April to 7 June 2013
KCLSU Welcome Weeks Events During the first two weeks of term King’s College London Students’ Union (KCLSU) organises two weeks of daytime and evening social events open to all new students.
Fees & funding
International Students’ Meet & Greet, Welcome and Orientation
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If you will be arriving at Heathrow airport on 10, 11 or 15 September you can book online onto our Meet & Greet Service where current students will welcome you to the UK and answer any questions.
Learning & language support 24 Life at King’s 30 Contact details
At the beginning of the autumn term the Student Advice & International Student Support team at King’s hosts an annual free Welcome and Orientation Programme for students who are new to the UK. The programme includes several events to welcome you to London, and it will provide you with plenty of useful information to help you settle in and meet other new students. You will need to book a place online in advance to attend this event. See page 3 for more details.
IMPORTANT – PLEASE READ The information contained in this document is accurate at the time of printing (autumn 2011), but the detail is subject to change and the College cannot guarantee that residences, facilities or services will necessarily be available. You are advised to check the website for updates.
Congratulations... ... on being offered a place to study at King’s College London! As one of England’s oldest and most prestigious university institutions, King’s can provide you with the inspiration and support to shine academically and develop your passions and interests. Alongside some of the best students from around the globe coming to study in the heart of London, you will benefit not only from all the opportunities London has to offer, but also a world-class students’ union events schedule; from our ‘Macadam Cup’ annual sports contest to live comedy nights and gigs at London’s only nightclub named after an Archbishop – Tutu’s. This handbook aims to answer important questions on practical issues such as finance, housing, and living in London. It is packed with useful tips to help you learn more about life as a King’s student by highlighting some of the services provided.
Checklist: Key next steps Accept your offer via UCAS You can also check your myApplication admissions portal account for any updates and messages and upload any supporting documents with respect to your academic application Find out if you are entitled to any grants, loans, bursaries or scholarships Find out what support is available for students with disabilities, medical conditions and specific learning differences before you enrol. Visit www.kcl.ac.uk/disability for more information about the Disability and Dyslexia Service Think about how much money you will need for the coming year, and work out an estimated budget Research your accommodation options. See online for more information www.kcl.ac.uk/accomm
Apply online for your King’s accommodation by 30 June Use UCAS Track to keep up-to-date with the progress of your academic application Check King’s web pages for offer holders www.kcl.ac.uk/study/offerholders Make sure you have entered your passport details on myApplication if you need a visa Read the information on Visas and Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies or CAS numbers on King’s website at www.kcl.ac.uk/study/pg/international/ VisasandStudentSupport.aspx If you would like to attend English lessons before you start your course contact the English Language Centre www.kcl.ac.uk/elc From July 2012 onwards check the website for details and booking form for the International Students’ Welcome and Orientation Programme
About your offer Please read these pages carefully and refer to the following sections for detailed information on accommodation, fees and funding and other support available for International students at King’s.
Your offer of a place may be conditional or unconditional. An unconditional offer is only made if you have already satisfied the entry requirements for your programme. Conditional offers are made to candidates who have yet to complete their academic qualifications. If you hold a conditional offer, this will only be changed to unconditional when your grades have been confirmed or you have provided official documentary evidence of satisfying the conditions of your offer. This evidence should be submitted no later than 31 August 2012 (unless otherwise stated in your offer letter). If your results are not supplied to us directly by UCAS it is your responsibility to submit them to us via a message on the admissions portal. ADMISSIONS PORTAL
You can use UCAS Track to keep up-to-date with your progress and reply to any offers. However, King’s will also issue you with a username and password for the myApplication portal (https://myapplication.kcl.ac.uk/). You will be able to track the status of your academic application, see if you’ve been invited to interview, and you can view your offer details or find your username and password for applying to accommodation. You can also upload supporting documents such as English language test results. International applicants will also be able to see information relating to the UK ‘points-based’ visa system. If, at any stage of the application year, you need to contact us about your application, please do so via your myApplication page. PROGRAMME INFORMATION
Enrolled students will receive full programme information including timetables and programme handbooks at their departmental induction during enrolment week. Timetables are finalised in the summer, so accurate information on course times is not available before September, but if you have any specific queries an admissions officer may be able to provide information based on the previous year’s schedule. ONLINE ENROLMENT
Before joining us at King’s, you should enrol online. Online enrolment consists of answering a short set of questions which should take between ten and fifteen minutes to complete. You will be sent further information by email during August about this process. CAMPUS REGISTRATION
The College enrolment week and departmental induction sessions will take place between Monday 17 and Friday 21 September 2012. Please bear this in mind when making plans for summer 2012. Once you have enrolled online you will be able to access further information, including enrolment and induction timetables online.
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Please ensure that you inform us if you change your contact details, in particular your email address, before the enrolment details are sent to you. During enrolment the College may need to verify your previous qualifications and you will need to bring original academic certificates or transcripts with you, as well as original English language examination certificates. COLLEGE REGULATIONS
It is a College regulation that a student cannot be registered on any other programme at the College or at another higher education institution at the same time. This includes interruptions and re-sits. Therefore, in order to enrol you must have completed or been officially withdrawn from all other programmes. Further information on College regulations is available on request and will be emailed to you with your enrolment information. DEFERRING YOUR OFFER
If you wish to defer your offer of a place on the programme, please contact your admissions officer via a message on the admissions portal confirming your intentions. Please note that deferment is not guaranteed. INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS’ WELCOME, ORIENTATION and meet & greet
King’s hosts an orientation programme for incoming overseas students at the beginning of the first term. The Orientation, to be held from 12-14 September 2012, offers an in-depth introduction to London life aimed at students who are new to the UK and have not lived here before. We also offer a Meet & Greet service from Heathrow airport on 10, 11 and 15 September. The booking forms will be available from July 2012 at www.kcl.ac.uk/international STUDENT VISAS
www.kcl.ac.uk/advice
ACCOMMODATION
• Applicants must refer to the information in the My accommodation brochure before completing an online accommodation application. •A pplications may only be made after firmly accepting an offer of a place to study at the College; the deadline for accommodation applications is 30 June 2012.
About your offer
The vast majority of overseas students coming to study in the UK are required to apply for Entry Clearance before travel at their nearest British Diplomatic Post (Embassy, Consulate-General or High Commission) that has a visa section. For further information regarding UK study visas please see the following web pages:
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Accommodation King’s offers a range of accommodation to suit the varied needs of students; whether you choose to apply for a College, Intercollegiate or nominated residence or live in private rented accommodation.
Residences We recognise the importance for full programme (ie those studying at the College for two or more years duration) international students of securing accommodation for your first year at university. Priority for places within each quota of either College, Intercollegiate or nominated residences is therefore given to eligible applicants who are new to higher education and whose application for accommodation is received by Accommodation Services by 30 June, prior to commencing study in September of the same year. A quota of places is allocated to Study Abroad Independent applicants as well as Study Abroad Exchange applicants from partner universities outside of the EU who submit their accommodation application before the 30 June closing date. Candidates applying from partner universities within the EU may apply although such applicants are unlikely to be considered before the start of session. ACCOMMODATION PROCEDURE
Accommodation Services produce an electronic brochure called My accommodation which can be viewed and downloaded from their website www.kcl.ac.uk/accomm. The brochure is designed to provide you with information on all of the College and University Intercollegiate residences, along with details of any nomination agreements for privately managed residences. There are details of the available facilities, accommodation charges, application process and allocations policy. General advice on seeking alternative accommodation in the private rented sector is also provided. This guide provides a summary of accommodation services and applicants should carefully read the My accommodation brochure before completing an accommodation application. Details of the undergraduate guarantee, application procedure and policy are provided within the My accommodation brochure. If you satisfy all of these criteria, you are new to higher education, your home address is outside the M25 and we receive your accommodation application by 30 June in your first year, you should expect to receive an offer of a place (not necessarily in your first year of study). You may apply for accommodation even if you have previously commenced a programme of study at higher education level within the UK although your application will have lower priority and will not be considered before the start of session in September. Please note, applications are only accepted from applicants who have firmly accepted a conditional (CF) or unconditional (UF) offer of a place on an academic programme at the College. Applicants holding King’s as their insurance offer may not submit an online application to Accommodation Services until all conditions of entry have been
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satisfied and the applicant has a confirmed place at the College; for undergraduate applicants this will usually be after publication of A-level or equivalent results. Applicants with a disability and/or special housing requirements should make early contact with the College’s Disability & Dyslexia Service and Accommodation Services to discuss any specific support needs and so that any housing requirements may be assessed. Applicants indicating special housing requirements are directed to a self-assessment personal statement form which must be completed in liaison with their GP/specialist professional support and must be returned to Accommodation Services at the time of application. Forms are available at www.kcl.ac.uk/accomm Accommodation applications for 2012-13 entry will be available to applicants via the web.
To apply online you must first accept an offer to study at King’s. You will then be sent details on how to access the online accommodation system via the myApplication portal. Make sure that you choose the appropriate application period according to your student status and year of application. Access to the online application system will only be permitted for applicants who meet the application criteria. Communication from Accommodation Services regarding acknowledgements and confirmation of offers will usually be by email to the email address notified by the applicant to the College via the UCAS application. Please therefore ensure you are checking the email address regularly throughout the summer. The accommodation system is continually reviewed; for more information on developments, please refer to www.kcl.ac.uk/accomm
King’s residences The majority of King’s residences are in central London, and most are close to King’s teaching campuses. All are within the London travel zones one and two.
We have limited accommodation for couples. International Hall has provision for families, priority for which is given to new international applicants (apply directly to International Hall). There is more information about residences on the following pages. Check www.kcl.ac.uk/accomm for up-to-date details. See map on the inside back cover for location of residences.
ACCOMMODATION
All King’s residences are non-smoking and provide CCTV, security, swipe card access and laundry facilities. A limited number of places may be available in single gender accommodation; applicants should indicate a preference on their application and check availability with Accommodation Services/Residence Office. Regrettably, availability of facilities cannot be guaranteed.
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Accommodation Accommodation Services are located within The Compass Student Centre, Strand. Open to visitors 09.00-18.00 weekdays (10.30 Weds, 17.00 Fri). Calls taken 09.30-17.00 weekdays.
BRIAN CREAMER HOUSE (UNDERGRADUATES ONLY)
• Self-catered. • 69 single bedrooms in corridor style. Shared kitchens, toilets and bathrooms. • Zone 1 (within the Congestion Charge zone) within walking distance of the Strand and Waterloo campuses. Shared facilities include small TV lounge, wireless internet connection and cycle racks. HAMPSTEAD RESIDENCE
• Self-catered. • Corridor style with 428 single bedrooms, a number of twin rooms and two selfcontained bedsits/flats. Shared kitchens, toilets and bathrooms. • Located in zone 2. Shared facilities include TV lounges, a bar, music practice room with piano, wireless internet connection, computer room equipped with printers, study rooms and communal grounds. STAMFORD STREET APARTMENTS
• Self-catered. • Apartment style with 548 en-suite single bedrooms in 89 apartments. Two rooms suitable for couples. All rooms are equipped with fridge and wired internet. • Zone 1 (within the Congestion Charge zone), within walking distance of Waterloo, Strand and Guy’s campuses. Apartments contain a communal kitchen with TV. Other shared facilities include on-site cycle store and adjacent bar and Kinetic, the KCLSU gym (for which an additional fee is payable) available on Waterloo Campus. WOLFSON HOUSE
• Self-catered. • Accommodation for 269 students. Most single rooms are located on corridors with a small number grouped in small cluster flats. • Shared kitchens, toilets and bathrooms. • Zone 1 location (within the Congestion Charge zone) within walking distance of Guy’s and Waterloo campuses. Shared facilities include a small common room with TV and wireless internet connection. Facilities at the Guy’s Campus including bar, refectory, library and computer rooms, are within walking distance.
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GREAT DOVER STREET APARTMENTS
• Self-catered. • Apartment style with 769 en-suite single bedrooms in 113 apartments. • All rooms are equipped with a fridge and wired internet connection. • Zone 1 (within the Congestion Charge zone) within walking distance of Guy’s and Waterloo campuses. Apartments contain a communal kitchen with TV. Other shared facilities include TV lounge and social space with pool table and table tennis, cycle shed, 24 hour computer room with printers. KING’S COLLEGE HALL
• Catered • Corridor style 454 single rooms and shared accommodation suitable for couples. Shared toilets and bathrooms • Located in zone 2. Shared facilities include a bar, squash courts, snooker, music practice rooms, study room, computer room equipped with printers, TV lounge, off street parking, wireless internet connection and communal grounds. THE RECTORY
• Self-catered. • Corridor style with 24 single and two double rooms (postgraduate & mature undergraduates only). • Shared kitchens, toilets and bathrooms. • Zone 1 (within the Congestion Charge zone) within walking distance of the Strand and Waterloo campuses.
MAINTENANCE AND REDECORATION PROGRAMMES
The College keeps under review the quality and style of its accommodation. There are plans to redevelop rooms at the King’s College Hall site as well as routine redecorations in other residences. Some facilities/services may be altered during the works, any further details will be on the website.
ACCOMMODATION
Shared facilities include small TV lounge, wireless internet connection, bike shed, and communal garden. Limited off-street parking is available.
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Accommodation
NOMINATED RESIDENCES
Liberty House, St John Street. A number of rooms are available under a nomination agreement. Located in zone 1. Studios are furnished with a kitchenette with integrated fridge, microwave and hob. Bedroom furniture includes a bed, wardrobe, desk, chair and bedside cabinet. Telephone and internet connection and a flat screen television also provided. Additional nominated residences may be available, check www.kcl.ac.uk/accomm for details. UNIVERSITY OF LONDON INTERCOLLEGIATE HALLS
These accept full-time students from all the Colleges within the University of London. All of the Intercollegiate Halls accommodate primarily undergraduate students. Half of the places at International Hall are reserved for overseas postgraduate and undergraduate students. Most of the Intercollegiate Halls (excluding Lillian Penson Hall and Nutford House) are located in the Bloomsbury area. All Intercollegiate Halls are catered and have laundry facilities, TV room, music room and quiet study room. See www.halls-london.ac.uk PRIVATE STUDENT RESIDENCES
Students may also apply to a range of privately-managed residences which offer high specification accommodation at rents starting at around £200-£250 per week. Details of these halls and some independent hostels can be found on the University of London Housing Services (ULHS) website www.housing.lon.ac.uk.
Private rented sector accommodation The supply of privately-let accommodation is greater and more varied in London than in many other parts of the country and therefore there is an enormous range of properties to rent. Although our staff are unable to find private accommodation on a student’s behalf, they are able to give practical advice on looking for accommodation and aspects of budgets and tenancies. In addition to the College Accommodation Services, King’s students may use the University of London Housing Services (ULHS), which specialises in helping students find private accommodation. The ULHS has an excellent website and password access is available to prospective students. Lists of vacant properties are available throughout the year. Lists of hostels and accommodation agencies, and information on a range of housing issues are also available. The ULHS also supplies a list of students who wish to share a house or flat. Visit www.housing.lon.ac.uk for more details. Advice and information sheets are also available from Student Advice & International Student Support at www.kcl.ac.uk/advice
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PRE-COURSE ACCOMMODATION
Students who wish to look for private accommodation or have not found accommodation may book temporary accommodation during the summer vacation through the King’s Conference & Timetabling Service and come into the College’s Accommodation Services for further assistance. ACCOMMODATION FEES
Prices vary according to facilities and locations. The table on this page gives a guide, based on 2011-12 prices and accommodation style and are subject to upward revision for 2012-13; heating and lighting costs are included in the fees, as are meals where provided. Standard residence agreements are offered for a fixed period (usually 40 weeks for King’s and Liberty Living residences or 37 weeks at Intercollegiate halls).
Accommodation costs Type of accommodation
Single room
Shared room
Location given with London postcode district, eg SE1
costs per person, per week (2011-12 prices)
costs per person (for shared rooms) or per couple, per week (2011-12 prices)
Apartments Great Dover Street SE1
£151.13
N/A
Stamford Street SE1
£151.13
Couple: £203.77
Self Catered Residences Brian Creamer House SE1
£117.25
N/A
Hampstead Residence NW3
£108.22
Shared rooms £78.82 Couple £156.59 – £184.03
£117.25
Couple £194.53
£117.25
Couple £157.15
£118.23
Couples £149.31 – £165.55
Catered Residences King’s College Hall SE5 Nominated Residences Liberty House EC1
£259.50 (Studio)
Intercollegiate halls Five in WC1, one in W1, one in W2
£154 – £227.50
Shared rooms £108.50 – £161 Couple £201.25 – £434
ACCOMMODATION
Wolfson House SE1 Rectory SE1
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Fees & funding The Student Funding Office offers confidential advice to both prospective and current students covering issues such as tuition fees, living expenses, student loans, bursaries, scholarships and more.
Tuition fees TUITION FEES FOR INTERNATIONAL UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS
Fees for overseas full-time students for the academic year 2011-12 are as follows: Classroom-based programmes £12,500 Laboratory-based (except MPharm) programmes £15,850 Overseas MPharm programmes £13,500 Clinically-based programmes £29,400 In order to determine which level your programme will be charged at, contact the relevant School of study (NB fees are subject to change for 2012-13 academic year). Self-funded students – tuition fee payment conditions
Fees will be payable in two equal instalments. The first instalment is due for payment by 31 October or 14 days from date of invoice if later. The second instalment is due for payment by 31 January or 14 days from date of invoice if later. An early settlement refund of two per cent of total fees will be forwarded to students who make full payment of their tuition fees prior to 31 October or within 14 days of the date of invoice if later. Certain programmes are excluded from this arrangement which you will be advised about. Sponsored students – tuition fee payment conditions
Where a student provides a valid sponsor letter at registration from an external corporate body agreeing to pay tuition fees, the invoice will be sent direct to the sponsoring organisation and payment of the invoice is due immediately. A student who is sponsored by a friend or relative will be regarded as responsible for their own fees.
Financial support at King’s – International students INTERNATIONAL HARDSHIP FUND – EU AND INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
The College has set aside limited funds to assist EU and international students in unexpected financial difficulty. If financial difficulties arise then you should contact the Student Advice Service, the Student Funding Office or your personal tutor to discuss your circumstances.
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Funding opportunities for international students A number of scholarships are available for international students applying to King’s. Please visit the international web pages for further information: www.kcl.ac.uk/international/yourcountry or www.kcl.ac.uk/study/ug/funding INTERNATIONAL STUDENT DISABILITY FUND
The International Student Disability Fund (ISDF) is available for International and EU students who are studying at King’s with a disability on a part-time, full-time, undergraduate, postgraduate or exchange basis. More information is available from the Disability and Dyslexia Service at www.kcl.ac.uk/disability
Living Expenses It is difficult to be exact about students’ living expenses as it depends on what you choose to do. London can be expensive but the laws of supply and demand also decree that big cities can be amongst the cheapest to live in. London is almost without equal when it comes to ways in which to spend your money and enjoy your free time, whatever your interests. Even better, the opportunities to get the best out of London on a limited budget are enormous. LIVING EXPENSES PER YEAR
You need to ensure that you have sufficient funds for your fees and that you have enough money for accommodation, food, travel, books and other living expenses (NB this is now a condition of entry for international students). Students should assume that the estimated living expenses given below represent a guide to the sum required to live in reasonable comfort in London for each of the teaching sessions mentioned. If you have dependent children, we recommend that you add a further £2,500 per child. 2012-13
2013-14
2014-15
£15,515
£16,290
£17,105
Married student
£23,780
£24,970
£26,220
FEES & FUNDING
International Student Single student
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Fees & funding
COUNCIL TAX EXEMPTION
To be eligible for council tax exemption students must be enrolled on a full-time course, which is normally defined as a course requiring attendance for at least 21 hours a week for at least 24 weeks each year. A person who is entitled to an exemption certificate has this taken into account when the council tax bill is calculated. It does not affect the liability of everyone over 18 in the property to pay council tax. In the case of a property solely occupied by full-time students who are joint tenants, they are all liable for a nil council tax bill, provided they have all sent in their exemption certificates. Where a student lives in a property with nonstudents a council tax bill will be issued; although legally full-time students cannot be held liable for any amount of council tax, non-student housemates may expect a contribution. Where a student lives with only one non-student they will receive a 25 per cent discount for the property. Once you have enrolled and require a Council Tax Exemption Certificate you should visit the Compass student centre at the Strand or Guy’s in person, where certificate requests are handled. STUDENT OYSTER PHOTOCARD SCHEME
All full-time undergraduate students aged 18 and over can apply for a Student Oyster Photocard, as long as your course lasts at least 14 weeks. Further eligibility criteria applies. With a valid Student Oyster Photocard, you can buy Travelcards and Bus Passes at 30 per cent off the equivalent adult rate on weekly and monthly Travelcards which will be valid on National Rail trains in the London area, as well as on the Tube, Docklands Light Railway, Tramlink and London bus services. For more information on eligibility and how to apply, visit www.kcl.ac.uk/funding or www.tfl.gov.uk
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WORKING IN LONDON
Students in London benefit from the wealth and variety of part-time and vacation work offered by London companies, in addition to having the advantage of earning higher rates of pay in the capital. King’s Careers Service advertises vacancies for part-time, temporary, voluntary and vacation work (see www.kcl.ac.uk/careers). A wide range of casual work is available in the Student’s Union and, through the Conference and Timetabling Services, in student residences throughout the year. New Government legislation has made it easier for international students to work part-time. More information can be found by visiting www.ukcisa.org.uk or from the Student Advice and International Student Support Service at King’s.
Managing your money We recommend you start planning how you will manage your money before you start university. If you have never lived away from home or created a budget before, one of our Student Advisers will be able to help you. To a great extent, your financial situation whilst studying is determined by how well you are able to manage your money whilst studying and the lifestyle that you choose to lead. If you have a budget outlining your income and are able to control your expenses, you should be able to minimise the risk of running out of money whilst studying. This will also ensure that you leave university having accumulated the minimum of debt. For more advice and the King’s Budget Planner, see www.kcl.ac.uk/study/ug/funding/budgeting
FEES & FUNDING 13
Learning & language support Studying at university can be daunting for new students, whether you need additional support to aid your learning or help with your English language or study skills.
Learning support Studying within higher education can be demanding and many students find they need to consider how they approach a new learning environment. This can be even more difficult for those with disabilities, learning differences or other health conditions that may affect their learning and academic ability. At King’s, a number of facilities are available and accessible across the College and from the Disability & Dyslexia Service. If you think you may need some advice or information about the services the College offers in support of your time as a student then please contact us. The earlier you do so the better and if this is before you enrol then we can help have support in place before you start. THERE ARE A NUMBER OF FACILITIES AVAILABLE WITHIN THE COLLEGE INCLUDING:
• An in-house dyslexia adviser service with 1-2-1 study skills support • Assistance with access to the Disabled Students Allowance (DSA) for home students and the International Students with Disabilities Fund (ISDF) for overseas and EU students • Assessments of Need for access to funding options • Dyslexia screening and referrals to Educational Psychologists for full assessments • Information about special examination provisions or getting coursework cover notes for students with dyslexia • Changes to library loans for students with dyslexia Specialist software is also available on College computers including:
• Inspiration – mind mapping and planning software • Texthelp! Read and Write – a sophisticated spellchecker and reading software • Supernova – offers visual and hearing support • Dragon Naturally Speaking – speech recognition software on specialist machines
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Study skills & English language support The English Language Centre (ELC) works across the College and is accredited by the British Council. The 2009 inspection awarded the ELC points of excellence in six general categories, the highest score achieved across all Colleges in the University of London. The ELC provides training and support to both non-native and native English speakers. Our tutors are well-qualified and experienced and fully understand the challenges and anxieties you might face. WHAT CAN YOU STUDY AT THE ELC?
In addition to the Foundation, Pre-Master’s and Two-Year International Master’s programmes that run throughout the year, the ELC also run the following to help support King’s students in their studies. IN-SESSIONAL & STUDY SKILLS
The ELC offers in-sessional and study skills courses for all King’s students, whether you are a native or non-native English speaker. All the support is free and runs throughout the academic year. The support focuses on the language and study skills that will help you make the most of your time at King’s and achieve your potential. The series of lectures, workshops and online resources will help you develop both your academic language and key academic skills such as learning how to be a critical, independent learner and writing effectively in an academic environment.
PRE-SESSIONAL COURSES
Pre-sessional courses run throughout the summer (June-September). These full-time, intensive courses are open to all non-native speaking students who hold degree offers from King’s or other UK universities. The course prepares you for the demands of higher education by focusing on improving your language skills within an academic context, with a particular focus on improving your extended academic writing skills, developing your critical approaches to reading and developing your library-based research skills. If you have not quite met the English language requirements of your course, you may be able to attend the pre-sessional instead of re-taking an English language test. Check www.kcl.ac.uk/elc for entry requirements.
LEARNING & LANGUAGE SUPPORT
We also offer one-to-one tutorials which offer students the opportunity to have a face to face session with a Study Skills adviser who can advise you on questions relating to language, style, coherence and overall structure of work in progress.
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Life at King’s Choosing King’s means combining academic excellence with a great students’ union and a multitude of opportunities both to support your studies and your social life.
Academic life ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE
• Academics are international leaders in their field. • King’s students have access to some of the most exciting, cutting-edge research in the world. • Located in the heart of the cultural capital, with a wealth of research facilities and academic societies, such as the British Library and Royal Society, on your doorstep. • Connected to the corridors of power, London’s knowledge capital and host to three of the world’s greatest teaching hospitals. • Awarded ‘confidence’ (the highest ranking) in the soundness of the management of our academic services and quality of learning opportunities by the Quality Assurance Agency 2009 award. ACADEMIC CULTURE
One of the key features of higher education in the UK, and particularly at King’s, is that you will have direct contact with academic members of staff within your department. You are likely to have large group lectures, but you will also have smaller group seminars, practical sessions and tutorials. You may also see members of staff individually on occasions. Students are expected to actively participate in small group sessions and engage in discussions, rather than simply listen. The academic culture is also relatively informal. Staff members will tell you how they wish to be addressed, but in many cases you will be on first name terms with them. Staff are also there to support and guide you through your programme, but you should bear in mind that you are responsible for your own learning. Time outside of lectures is your own but the understanding is that you will be spending a considerable amount of your time studying. Staff will not tell you to do this; it is something that is expected of you. STUDY RESOURCES
Libraries are located at all the main sites of the College and they provide IT and software support, helpdesks and online enquiry services, photocopying, scanning, lending and reference services, document delivery, individual and group study facilities, access to print and electronic information resources. Opening hours vary between campuses and between term time and vacation periods. www.kcl.ac.uk/library
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ACCESS TO COMPUTERS
Computers are provided at all sites and provide access to a wide range of software, including Microsoft Office, statistical packages, web browsers and subject-specific learning resources. Rooms have printing, data storage and remote access facilities and some computer rooms are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. In addition, wireless internet is available across all of our campuses. EMAIL
You should receive your King’s email username and password at enrolment. It is important that you use your King’s email because it is the principal means of communication between staff and students www.kcl.ac.uk/it INFORMATION RESOURCES
Library Services provides access to a huge multidisciplinary, multi-campus information resource base including over one million books, thousands of print and electronic journals, archives and special collections of historical significance. A number of bibliographic and full text databases are available to enable you to find useful research and information to support your study. The extensive portfolio of remotely accessible electronic resources also includes international library catalogues, internet resource discovery tools, subject gateways, data sets, multimedia resources and e-books. Students also have access to the wealth of specialist libraries, archives and collections in and around London. LIAISON AND SUBJECT SUPPORT
A dedicated subject specialist is available to support your information needs and to ensure that resources are relevant and of a high quality. They can offer advice on a wide range of issues, including information resources and training opportunities. TRAINING
SUPPORT SERVICES
In addition to study resources, at King’s you will enjoy a comprehensive range of facilities and services to help support your studies and make the most of your time at the College. These include: Student Advice & International Student Support (helping students with a wide range of issues covering immigration advice, money
LIFE AT KING’S
Developing an awareness of relevant information tools, software and services, and learning how to access and exploit these resources effectively, is essential for effective study. Library Services provides important training timetabled into your induction programme. Please make the most of this opportunity to improve your information skills.
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Life at King’s
management, legal issues and housing); The Compass (a ‘one stop shop’ for all student enquiries with a quiet study area); Careers Service; counselling; religious provision & pastoral care; Disability & Dyslexia Service (providing information and advice about the support systems available to disabled students); fitness, health and sport; personal tutors and support for mature students. You can find more information on all of these services on our website.
Social life KCLSU – KING’S COLLEGE LONDON STUDENTS’ UNION
KCLSU is here to support you during your time at King’s by organising social, sporting and cultural activities where you can make new friends. We also offer opportunities for you to develop transferable skills that will increase your employability when you graduate, and ensure there are ways for you to voice your opinion on the issues that affect you most. We are also here to provide you with independent support and advice whenever you need it. Because we are a student-led organisation, we put what students want at the centre of everything we do. When you enrol at King’s you’ll automatically become a member of KCLSU, which means you can take advantage of all the fantastic services we offer. WELCOME
To help you settle in, get to know your fellow students and get a flavour of some of the activities available to you at King’s, KCLSU organises a programme of activities for new and returning students called ‘Welcome’ at the start of the academic year. THINGS TO DO IN YOUR SPARE TIME
Whether you’ve been doing it for years or you just feel like trying something new, there are an enormous variety of sports clubs, societies, volunteering opportunities and campaigning groups where you can get involved. You’re spoilt for choice, but if there’s something you feel is missing, we can also help you get your own student activity group up and running. SPORTS
The KCLSU Sport & Fitness team provide you with some fantastic opportunities to participate in sport and all things physical whilst studying at King’s. Whether for fun, to improve your fitness, make lasting friendships or to take part in serious competitions, regionally or nationally, we certainly have something for you with over 50 sports clubs to choose from as well as a diverse programme of recreational
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opportunities to keep you fit and active. The Kinetic Fitness Club offers you some great facilities and machines, with a range of classes, nutritional advice, lifestyle analysis and a personal training service all at student friendly prices. ACTIVITY GROUPS
KCLSU is proud to have a diverse range of exciting Activity Groups and joining is the best way to meet those who will share your eccentricities and help you harness your talents! There are over 180 Groups on offer, from cultural and religious groups to those interested in musical theatre and dance and others dealing with world issues or comedy – there is no limit to the number you can join and the experiences you can have. So for a full list of the Activity Groups available, details of their upcoming events and to get in contact with members go to www.kclsu.org/groups VOLUNTEERING AND SKILLS
There are over 50 volunteering groups and student led volunteering projects here at KCLSU, along with various other volunteering opportunities within Kings, the local community across London and even overseas. KCLSU also supports all of our volunteers to develop and evidence their employability skills, helping each student to get the most out of their time whilst at King’s. STUDENT MEDIA
Roar is the King’s student newspaper, produced monthly by a student editorial team. There are a variety of opportunities open to students – from photography, writing, layout and design, so it’s easy to find a role that best suits your talents. King’s also has its own radio station KCL Radio. WORK OPPORTUNITIES
PLACES TO GO
KCLSU has some amazing places to get together with new friends in a safe, secure and friendly environment. Our two bars, the Waterfront (Strand Campus) and Guy’s Bar (Boland House, Guy’s Campus) serve a range of food and drinks all day, making them ideal places to relax and enjoy yourself. Our late night venue Tutu’s Nightclub (named after alumnus Desmond Tutu) hosts a range of different live music gigs
LIFE AT KING’S
KCLSU employs over 300 students to staff our venues so there’s also an opportunity for you to earn some extra money whilst at King’s. We can work around your academic schedule and have a range of opportunities available. Keep an eye out for work opportunities run by the College too.
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Life at King’s
and club nights and offers an unrivalled view of London’s skyline from its location overlooking the River Thames. In addition to this the Lobby has been developed as a new space in the Macadam Building (Strand Campus) for students to relax, study and interact in, along with a new skills development area, the Bridge, which works in partnership with the Careers Service to provide students with opportunities to enhance and develop their employability skills. To find out more, just pop into one of our Student Centres across the campuses: at Guy’s (in the Spit), Strand (in the Lobby) or Waterloo (in the FWB library). Come in and speak to one of our staff, or find out more information online at www.kclsu.org
The London Advantage London is a multi-faceted city, full of opportunities for you as a student to make the most of the capital. London is a global hub for cultural, business, political, media, legal and sporting events, all of which attract the best from around the world. King’s has connections to all walks of London life and as a student here you will benefit from these links through your programme and through various opportunities to take part in events and hear our renowned guest speakers. EXPERIENCE LONDON
London life is full, colourful and varied. There is a wealth of cultural and academic resources on your doorstep, many of which are free to use. These include worldfamous museums such as the V&A and Natural History Museums, libraries such as the British Library, theatres both West End and independent, and galleries including the Tate Modern, Tate Britain and National Gallery. London is also well known for its specialised collections and many important historical societies. On a sunny day, discover one of London’s many parks, such as Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens and Regent’s Park. These often play host to major music events, including the Wireless Festival and Hard Rock Calling in Hyde Park. London also offers a wealth of shopping opportunities: visit the shopping hub of Regents and Oxford Street; lose yourself in Camden or Greenwich Market; and explore the vibrant Brick Lane and Spitalfields. There are many guides available (both in print and online) to all that London has to offer, and weekly magazines such as Time Out to keep you up-to-date with what is happening.
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AFFORDABLE LONDON
London may be known as one of the most expensive cities in the world but with around 16 per cent of the total UK student population living in London, the capital is well geared up for students and their budgets. This means that students can enjoy a host of discounts and reductions on a wealth of facilities and services. Student discounts can be found in many of Oxford Street’s major retail outlets and you will find an ever growing selection of shops, cafés, bars and restaurants all offering discounted rates. In the capital, getting around is cheaper than you might think with a 30 percent discount on Transport for London (TFL) services with a Student Oyster Photocard meaning you can jump on and off tubes and buses without the worry of breaking the bank. Alternatively, some of London’s famous sights are best seen on foot and many of the city’s main attractions are within easy walking distance of each other. With King’s being London’s most central university, even on campus; you are never far away from the sights and excitement of the city. The London calendar is packed with a great mix of events with activities to suit everyone. Many of these are free, so whether it is taking in the fireworks spectacular at new year, running in the Virgin London Marathon, dancing in the Notting Hill Carnival, tasting the culinary delights of the “Taste of Spain” festival on Regent Street or catching a movie at the BFI Film Festival, you are sure to find something to keep you entertained. London also benefits from some of the world’s best second-hand bookshops, one of which you can find hiding under Waterloo Bridge, right on the doorstep of King’s Waterloo Campus. If you are looking for something a little more serious, why not drop into the Old Bailey public gallery and watch the court proceedings or while away some time picnicking in one of the capital’s many outdoor spaces. London is sure to deliver a great student experience whatever your interests, your budget or the weather.
We look forward to welcoming you to King’s. LIFE AT KING’S 21
Contact details
Key contacts For resources for offer holders, including this guide in electronic format, visit www.kcl.ac.uk/study/offerholders
ACCOMMODATION Accommodation Services King’s College London Macadam Building Surrey Street London WC2R 2NS Tel +44 (0)20 7848 2759 Fax +44 (0)20 7848 2724 www.kcl.ac.uk/accomm University of London Housing Services 4th floor, ULU Building Malet Street London WC1E 7HY Tel +44 (0)20 7862 8880 Fax +44 (0)20 7862 8084 housing@lon.ac.uk www.housing.lon.ac.uk
CAREERS King’s Careers Service careers@kcl.ac.uk www.kcl.ac.uk/careers
THE COMPASS The Compass team can help with general queries for offer holders relating to the following: • Fees & Funding • General accommodation information • General course information
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• Student Services at King’s • Open days • Online enrolment Tel +44 (0)20 7848 7070 thecompass@kcl.ac.uk www.kcl.ac.uk/thecompass
DISABILITY & DYSLEXIA SERVICE For information, advice and guidance on support available for students with disabilities, medical conditions and specific learning differences. Room 7.36 James Clerk Maxwell Building 57 Waterloo Road London SE1 8WA Tel +44 (0)20 7848 3398 disability@kcl.ac.uk www.kcl.ac.uk/disability
ENGLISH LANGUAGE CENTRE For information on study skills and language support for all students English Language Centre King’s College London 26-29 Drury Lane London WC2B 5RL Tel +44 (0)20 7848 1600 Fax +44 (0)20 7848 1601 elc@kcl.ac.uk www.kcl.ac.uk/elc
FEES Finance (Credit Control) Office King’s College London 6.20 James Clerk Maxwell Building Waterloo Campus 57 Waterloo Road London SE1 8WA Tel +44 (0)20 7848 3290/3372 credit.control@kcl.ac.uk Tuition fee status For tuition fee status contact the relevant admissions office, or find advice at:
UKCISA 9–17 St Albans Place London N 1 0NX Tel +44 (0)20 7107 9922 www.ukcisa.org.uk
FUNDING For advice on living expenses, US Federal Loans and hardship funds
INTERNATIONAL VISITS & EVENTS For general information on studying at King’s contact The Compass. For information about visits to your country and other events see details below.
Follow @KingsGlobal on Twitter for our international news and visits to your country
STUDENT ADVICE & INTERNATIONAL STUDENT SUPPORT See also Student Advice and English Language Centre For advice about immigration, finances, welfare benefits & legal matters Tel +44 (0)20 7848 6858 thecompass@kcl.ac.uk www.kcl.ac.uk/advice Follow @KingsAdvice on Twitter
STUDENTS’ UNION KCLSU Macadam Building Surrey Street London WC2R 2NS Tel +44 (0)20 7848 1588 enquiries@kclsu.org www.kclsu.org Follow @KCLSU on Twitter Offices also at Guy’s and Waterloo campuses University of London Union (ULU) Tel +44 (0)20 7664 2000 general@ulu.co.uk www.ulu.co.uk National Union of Students (NUS) Tel +44 (0)20 7272 8900 www.nus.org.uk
CONTACTS & MAPS
Student Funding Office King’s College London G.31 James Clerk Maxwell Building Waterloo Campus 57 Waterloo Road London SE1 8WA Tel +44 (0)20 7848 4362/4471/4472 funding@kcl.ac.uk www.kcl.ac.uk/funding
International Marketing Team Tel +44 (0)20 7848 3388 international@kcl.ac.uk www.kcl.ac.uk/international
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Contact details
General Advice & Information for International Students Immigration & Government departments UK Visas Foreign & Commonwealth Office King Charles Street London SW1A 2AH Tel +44 (0)20 7008 8438 www.ukvisas.gov.uk For general information on visas. Joint Council for the Welfare of Immigrants (JCWI) 115 Old Street London EC1V 9RT Tel +44 (0)20 7251 8708 info@jcwi.org.uk www.jcwi.org.uk For advice on immigration and nationality problems. Home Office Public Enquiry Office Initial Consideration Unit (Border & Immigration Agency) Lunar House, 40 Wellesley Road Croydon CR9 2BY Tel +44 (0)870 606 7766 www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk For an application form please call +44 (0)870 241 0645 or download from the Border & Immigration Agency website.
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Overseas Visitors Records Office (Metropolitan Police) Ground Floor, Brandon House 180 Borough High Street London SE1 1LH Tel +44 (0)20 7230 1208/1286 Registration with the police is required for some international students.
General advice & information The British Council Tel +44 (0)161 957 7755 general.enquiries@britishcouncil.org www.britishcouncil.org Follow @BritishCouncil on Twitter UKCISA UK Council for International Student Affairs 9-17 St Albans Place Islington London N1 0NX Tel +44 (0)20 7288 4330 Student Advice Line +44 (0)20 7107 9922 www.ukcisa.org.uk Offers information and advice to all international students.
HAMPSTEAD HEATH
hampstead campus ISLINGTON
HAMPSTEAD PRIMROSE HILL
Intercollegiate Halls VICTORIA PARK
REGENT’S PARK
BLOOMSBURY
Great Dover St Apartments CITY
WEST END
HOLLAND PARK
KENSINGTON GARDENS
Wolfson House
HYDE PARK GREEN PARK
ST JAMES’S PARK
WESTMINSTER
Stamford St Apartments OVAL
BATTERSEA PARK
The Rectory
CHELSEA
Brian Creamer House
DENMARK HILL CLAPHAM COMMON
RUSKIN PARK
WANDSWORTH BROCKWELL PARK
1 Lord’s Cricket Ground
8 Covent Garden
15 Tate Modern
2 University of London Union
9 Marble Arch
16 Houses of Parliament
3 University Library
10 National Gallery & Trafalgar Square
17 Westminster Abbey
4 British Museum 5 Barbican Centre
11 South Bank Complex
19 Royal Courts of Justice
6 St Paul’s Cathedral
12 Buckingham Palace
20 London Eye
7 Tower of London & Tower Bridge
13 Lambeth Walk 14 Museums
18 Tate Gallery
PECKHAM RYE COMMON
King’s College Hall
This document is available in alternative formats. Contact the Marketing Department, King’s College London, tel + 44(0)20 7848 3997.
www.kcl.ac.uk King’s is ranked in the top 30 universities worldwide* and based in the heart of London. With nine Schools and six Medical Research Council centres, King’s offers world-class teaching and research. Our extensive range of subjects includes humanities, law, medicine, psychiatry, dentistry, nursing, mathematics, natural, biomedical, social and management sciences. *QS World University Rankings, 2011
Main College address King’s College London Strand London WC2R 2LS United Kingdom Tel +44 (0)20 7836 5454 www.kcl.ac.uk/study/offerholders