International and European
Student Welcome Guide 2016-2017
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The Welsh people have constantly made me feel at home while offering me to try local traditional food such as Welsh Cawl, Bara Brith (similar to fruit cake) and delicious Welsh Cakes. Their love for football and rugby is a whole other level when they’re cheering on their local team. Overall, my time in Wales has been an incredible and positive experience. If you have been hit by the travel bug, Wales should be a top country to visit!
Shaun Liew, BA Sport and Health - Canada
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Contents Welcome Introduction Academic Life Life Design English for Academic Purposes Conversation Club A sense of place Cultural Celebrations Swansea Campus Map Carmarthen Campus Map Lampeter Campus Map The First Few Weeks Culture Shock Practical Matters Emergencies & Personal Safety Seeking Help & Advice Student Services Medical Care & Wellbeing Tier 4 Visa Student Responsibilities European, Erasmus+ and Erasmus Mundus Careers Service Travelling In the UK Money Matters Useful Websites Contact Us
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Welcome to
the University of Wales Trinity Saint David
I am delighted to welcome you to the University of Wales Trinity Saint David. We have for many years been very pleased to receive international students. We will have students at the university from over 70 countries of the world, including European countries and Scandinavia and extending to China, India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Middle East, Africa, USA, Canada, South America, and many others. The presence of overseas students is very important to university life, not just from an educational perspective but also in terms of enhanced cultural and social awareness and understanding where all students, including those from the UK, benefit enormously from this interaction. In today’s truly global market place we all need the knowledge and ability to work together effectively, and the ‘internationalisation’ of relationships and environments is of benefit to all. I am very proud of our reputation of providing a caring and supportive learning environment for all of our students, and our success and reputation in this respect continues to be confirmed. I hope very much that you will reflect on your time here at the University of Wales Trinity Saint David with pride and satisfaction, and that you will speak of us well when you return home.
Professor Simon Haslett MSc, PhD, FRGS, FGS, FRSA, PFHEA Pro Vice-Chancellor (International and Enhancement)
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UWTSD Campuses
Transforming Education....
.....Transforming Lives
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Introduction The International Office has created the International and European Student Welcome Guide 2016/17 to help answer any questions you may have upon your arrival or during your studies here at UWTSD. We pride ourselves as being a caring and supportive University and our aim is to provide you with as much information as possible to help you settle in and enjoy your student experience.
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Everyday I have a walk, I breath and look, and just can’t believe how amazing Wales is! I can never get bored from its breathless views every where. Having these views reflects on their people from being nice, friendly and smiley... It just feels like ‘home’ Reham Al-Shaibani BSc Business Information Technology Yemen
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Academic Life Studying at UWTSD
You will probably notice a number of differences between UWTSD and the system of education that you know so well at home. For example, you may find a difference in the relationship between the lecturers and students here compared to your own country. On the whole, the relationship here is relaxed and informal, lecturers and other members of staff being known by their first names. The teaching and learning culture may also be different. You will be expected to use a variety of text books some of which you will need to buy, others you should borrow from the library. Your lecturers will advise you about this. You will often have to take notes in class, write extensively for assignments, use computers, analyse facts and draw your own conclusions. Sometimes you may have to carry out research on projects and work in a group. In addition to the lectures where you may be invited to participate, there will also be seminars or tutorials where you will be expected to be prepared to discuss and exchange views and ideas. If you are concerned or anxious about anything you can talk it over with your Personal Tutor or Student Services. Please refer to page 58 for contact details.
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Plagiarism Plagiarism of any written work is not acceptable and is taken very seriously (copying out of books or from any other source). It is not an easy concept to understand, however it is a topic that you need to be fully aware of. Refer to your Programme of study Handbook to find out more. You can also ask your Programme Lecturer for further information.
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Student Experience Department The Student Experience Department works in partnership with the Students’ Union to continuously improve the student experience at UWTSD. The team is based on the Swansea campus (above the Owen Library at Mount Pleasant) but we travel between the campuses regularly. We run ‘Student Experience Conventions’ on each campus every term. These are opportunities for students to raise issues or concerns they have with members of staff who can respond to them. All students are welcome at these meetings so make sure you look out for the dates being advertised around campus. The Student Experience Department also runs the Life Design project – and exciting new programme only available at UWTSD which aims to support students in making the most of their time at University and in preparing for their future careers. Visit the Life Design web pages for more information and for details of sessions you can attend.
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Lifedesign. uwtsd.ac.uk Facebook: @lifedesign UWTSD Twitter: @lifedesign UWTSD
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English for academic purposes (EAP) support Studying at UWTSD
All students are expected to have a good working knowledge of the English language. However, academic situations can present new challenges. As a result, The International office offers support in English for Academic Purposes (EAP). Classes are run on all Swansea campuses and may be available if requested in Carmarthen and Lampeter. In addition students are offered more focused one to one tuition through an appointment system. This is available both face to face and remotely. An example of areas covered includes Academic Writing Skills, Presentation and Seminar Skills, Dissertation and Thesis Writing Skills and Discipline Specific EAP Skills. For further information please contact the International office, details are on page 58.
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Conversation Club Come and join a lively group of students who meet once a week to discuss different topics, listen to guest speakers and respond, meet other student’s International, European and Home students and enjoy a sociable lunch together. There’s no better way to improve your spoken English. When & where: Swansea Campus – Swansea Business School each Thursday at 13:15 Carmarthen Campus – Cwad Café each Wednesday afternoon Lampeter Campus – 1822 Café each Friday morning
Student Support Drop-In Session Every Tuesday afternoon there will be a student support drop in session followed by a Coffee Afternoon gettogether in the Swansea School of Art with Gruff Owen our Senior Student Support Officer. For further information please contact internationaloffice@uwtsd.ac.uk
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A Sense of Place...
The Cultural programme for international and European students The Cultural Programme is an important part of your time at the University of Wales Trinity Saint David. The Program provides a variety of excursions to various locations in Wales and England throughout the academic year. Attendance - Excursions take place on weekends and you are accompanied by members of the International Office who provide historical and cultural information. This is a great way to get to know Wales and England in a safe and friendly environment. If you are an international or European student studying at the University of Wales Trinity Saint David and would like to attend these cultural trips, please contact the International Office. Refer to page 58 for contact details.
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These excursions vary slightly, but can include some of the following:
Pembrokeshire coast
Wales boasts some of the most spectacular coastline in Great Britain. The Pembrokeshire Coast has miles and miles of natural attractions - cliffs, beaches, caves and of course wildlife. Visitors can spot seals, puffins, wild horses and many other wild creatures in their natural habitat. This trip also includes a visit to St David’s, Britain’s smallest City! This is home to a splendid 12th Century Abbey, which was built on the ancient home and church of St. David, patron Saint of Wales.
Llansteffan Llansteffan is a small village just 8 miles from Carmarthen campus. Yet nestled on the shore of the Tywi Estuary, this village is home to Llansteffan Castle, a 12th century Norman Castle. Following a short climb up a hill, views of both the sands and countryside are breathtaking. Nearby isLaugharne, and the Dylan Thomas Boathouse. Dylan Thomas is maybe Wales’ most famous poet. He spent the last four of his short 39 years composing his poetry in the little village of Laugharne.
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Bath For two thousand years Bath has been a spa town, built around Britain’s only hot mineral springs. For centuries this natural phenomenon has attracted visitors to Bath, and led to a unique historic urban environment around the springs. The Romans were the first to realise the value of the hot mineral water. They built their religious spa of AquaeSulis around the three springs. The Roman Baths is below the modern street level and has four main features, the Sacred Spring, the Roman Temple, the Roman bath house and finds from Roman Bath. The Georgian Pump Room is on the ground level. Bath is also known for its shops and was once the home to literary figure, Jane Austin. This visit is always a favorite among international students! In addition to the cultural program the International Office organizes a number of events throughout the year, including a welcome dinner, afternoon teas, Coffee mornings, Thanksgiving Dinner and the annual St. David’s Day dinner. These are great events which bring together the faculty and International student body.
Big Pit Coal mining is an integral part of Welsh History. Big Pit was a working coalmine until it closed in 1980. Then in 1983 it became a museum of the South Wales mining industry and is now known as the National Mining Museum of Wales. The highlight of the visit is the hourlong underground tour, led by ex-miners, which takes you down in the pit cage to walk through underground roadways, air doors, stables and engine houses built by generations of mineworkers. On the surface you can explore the colliery buildings - the engine-house, the blacksmiths’ workshop and the pithead baths.
London Students spend the whole weekend exploring London: Among the many places of interest are Westminster; Buckingham Palace; Covent Garden; Trafalgar Square; Oxford Street and Knightsbridge. Students are free to plan their own activities, from sightseeing to seeing a West End Musical!
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Cultural Celebrations The International Office takes part in and hosts Cultural Celebrations throughout the Academic Year. Details will be emailed to your student email address prior to the event. Spaces are usually limited and on a first come first served basis. Minor charges may also apply at some of the events, again this will be clearly advertised prior to the event. Month
Celebration
October
Diwali
November
Thanksgiving
January/February
Chinese New Year
March
Saint David’s Day celebration dinner
May
Norwegian Constitution Day
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Swansea Campus Townhill Campus
Mount Pleasant Campus Swansea College of Art Swansea Business Campus
1 Reception Security Office Accommodation Office 2 Gwyr Hall 3 Cenydd Hall 4 Dyfed Hall 5 Gym 6 Townhill Theatre 7 Canteen 8 Islwyn Bar 9 Main Teaching Building Main Lecture Theatre 10 Library
1 Cadogan Technology Centre 2 Students’ Union International Centre 3 Reception Careers Student Services 4 24 Hour Computer Room IT Helpdesk Cafe Metro 5 Life Design Studio Owen Library 6 Registry and Finance 7 Dylan Thomas Hall 8 FACE South 9 Music Technology Centre 10 Alex Design Exchange 11 Dynevor Centre for Art, Design and Media 12 Swansea Business Campus
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Mount Pleasant Campus Swansea College of Art Swansea Business Campus
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Carmarthen Campus 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
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Main entrance Haliwell Theatre Merlin Restaurant Noakes Accommodation Accommodation Office Sports Centre Reception Registry Finance Y Llwyfan Old College IT Help Desk Students’ Union Swimming Pool Tower Accommodation Myrddin Accommodation Library Studio Student Services Non Accommodation Chapel Teaching and Learning Building TL Lecture Rooms Parry P Lecture Rooms Dafydd Rowlands DR Lecture Rooms
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Lampeter Campus 1 Canterbury Building Student Services Finance Accommodation Learning Support Faculty Office Registry Careers 2 Cliff Tucker Building Cliff Tucker Theatre Lecture Rooms 9-11 3 Saint David’s Building Main Reception Old Hall Chapel 4 Harford Building I 5 Harford Building II 6 Sheikh Khalifa Building Lecture Rooms 17-19 7 Arts Building Arts Hall Red Room Lecture Rooms 6-8 8 Confucius Institute 9 Ardulas Cottage 10 Dolwen Cottage 11 Riverside Cottage 12 Sports Hall 13 Media Centre
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Print Unit Roderic Bowen Research Centre Roland Williams Research Centre Reception Glandulas Greenacres IT & Systems Environmental Archaeology Laboratories Library IT Helpdesk Creche Burgess Hall Carl Lofmark Hall Daniel Dawson Hall Edwin Morris Hall Harold Arthur Harris Hall Hugh Walker Hall John Richards Hall I John Richards Hall II Lloyd Thomas Hall Roderic Bowen Hall Simon Evans Hall| Media Centre Portakabin Gatehouse Lodge Rhoslwyn Terrapin Students’ Union Research centre Willows The Bungalow Lloyd Thomas Dining Room & 1822 Coffee Shop Prayer Room
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Reception & Security
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UWTSD Cares Here for You
Symptoms can also include:
• Loss of appetite • Nausea • Indigestion • Constipation • Headaches • Fatigue • Insomnia • Irritability Symptoms only last a couple of days at most, depending on how quickly your body can adjust to the new time zone. Try to stay healthy, eat when you are hungry, drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol and caffeine for a couple of days and sleep when you need to.
Orientation This programme is designed to give you an opportunity to meet fellow students and to be introduced to the University’s support areas. This is a great opportunity for you and we highly recommend you take the opportunity to join us.
The First Few Weeks Jet lag Jet lag is a common condition that sometimes occurs when you are flying long distances. It occurs because your body finds it difficult to adjust to a new time zone. Jet lag can disturb your sleep pattern, leaving you feeling lethargic and lacking in energy.
We also recommend you take some time to explore the university campuses and familiarise yourself with the layout of the buildings. The Refectories, Reception, Student Services, Student Union,Careers Advisers, Finance and Registry are some of the areas you may wish to know about.
Homesickness You will probably find that life here, is quite different from life at home and it will take time to adjust to the changes. Don’t despair, as things will get better for you! It is quite normal to feel uncomfortable until you begin to settle down. Some international students tell us that they feel quite homesick at first; others tell us that they feel homesick later, after the initial excitement ‘wears off’. Homesickness affects people in different ways and some get over it more quickly than others. You will soon begin to settle down and make new friends amongst other students on your course and those with whom you live.
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WE ARE HERE TO HELP
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What is Culture Shock “Culture shock” is a term used to describe the impact of moving from a familiar environment to one that is unfamiliar. It is an experience described by people who have travelled abroad to work, live or study; it can be felt to a certain extent even when abroad on holiday. It can affect anyone, including students. It includes the shock of a new environment, meeting lots of new people and learning the ways of a different environment. It also includes the shock of being separated from the important people in your life, maybe family, friends, colleagues, teachers: people you would normally talk to at times of uncertainty, people who give you support and guidance. When familiar sights, sounds, smells or tastes are no longer there you can miss them very much. If you are tired or even jet-lagged when you arrive at UWTSD small things may upset you out of all proportion to their real significance.
aspects of your own culture as well as the new culture you have entered. It will give you valuable skills that will serve you in many ways now and in the future, and which will be part of the benefit of higher education.
We are here to help you
3. Have familiar things around you such as photographs,
Though culture shock is normally a temporary phase, it is important to know there are things you and we can do to help so that some of these worrying effects can be minimised. Don’t feel “this is not going to happen to me”. Culture shock can hit you whatever your background and experience. Please be assured we are here to help you at all times. Use our Student Services, where there are professional and experienced counsellors to provide a confidential, friendly, listening ear. Also take advantage of the Cultural Programme, which is a valuable way of meeting people, making new friends and learning interesting things about our Welsh culture. It is important to stress that culture shock is entirely normal and not a sign that you have made a mistake or that you won’t manage. In fact there are very positive aspects of culture shock. The experience can be a significant learning experience, making you more aware of yourself, and
in specialist shops and larger supermarkets, ask Student Services for help on this.
Help yourself Some tips on how you can help yourself:
1. Understand that ‘culture shock’ is a normal experience. 2. Keep in touch with home, family and friends by letter, skype or emails. Set up web camera’s if possible and have daily, weekly, monthly chats to your loved ones at home. ornaments or personal memorabilia.
4. Take regular exercise, including walks around the
campuses to familiarise yourself with the landscape.
5. Find local suppliers of familiar foods. There are plenty
6. Make friends with other international students from
your own culture and others. They will understand what you are going through. Look for social activities you can do together.
7. Make friends with local and national students. Learn
about the culture in Wales and Britain. Look out for social activities on notice boards within your campus to see what is going on. There are always plenty of diverse student activities you could get involved with.
8. Be part of the Student Union and the societies they offer, or set up a new one with your friends. Societies help to bring together students who have similar or shared interests.
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9. Make links with the community
whether through your faith or hobbies. The Student Services or Student Union will be able to provide you with information on what is available.
10. Lastly... Talk to us, we have
highly qualified, experienced counsellors in Student Services who are here to help you. For further information contact internationaloffice@uwtsd.ac.uk
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Practical Matters Telephones There are public telephones on the campuses of the University, at the bus and railway stations and on the streets. If you have a pay-as-you-go mobile phone, you can ‘top-up’ your card in mobile phone shops and other stores. To call overseas dial 00, then the country code, then the number. Country codes are listed in the front of most telephone directories. International calls are cheaper at different times for different countries so contact the telephone company you use for information on this.
Post offices Post Offices offer a wide range of services. They sell postage stamps, letter-cards, air- letter forms, registered envelopes, postal orders, overseas money orders, and so on.
Television licence (TV licence) By British Law, you need a TV licence to use any television receiving equipment including a PC, laptop or mobile phone to watch or record television programmes as they are being shown on television. A TV licence can be bought and renewed on-line.
Faith You will find a variety of religious attitudes in Wales; some people have deeply held religious beliefs and others do not. Your faith will be respected as we do our best to accommodate the religious and spiritual needs of all
our students. In Swansea, for example, we have a Quiet Room in Mount Pleasant (Red Brick Building) and Ty Bryn Glas, which have been set aside for prayers or meditation by students of any religion or none. We have a chapel on the Lampeter campus and there is a Mosque in Lampeter. There is Chapel on campus in Carmarthen. As Swansea is a large city it has its own Muslim community with two mosques in St Helens Road, close to the City Centre. There is a Synagogue in Ffynone, close to Mount Pleasant, a Buddhist Centre in the Uplands and a Sikh Community Centre and Ghurdwara on the outskirts of Swansea. The nearest Hindu Temple is in Cardiff. If you would like to discuss your religious requirements or you need help in seeking the kind of religious support you require, please contact Student Services.
Alcohol During your stay here you might be asked if you would like to ‘go for a drink’. This is generally an invitation to go to a pub or a bar where alcoholic drinks are available. The British law requires you to be over 18 to purchase alcohol. You may be asked to prove your age if you look under the age of 21. This is standard practice in most bars and shops. It is perfectly acceptable to go to a pub and drink non-alcoholic soft drinks which are also available.
Cash machines For your convenience, there are cash machines on campus from which you can withdraw cash from your bank account. Most Banks and some retail stores have cash machines. These machines do not charge for cash withdrawal from a UK bank account.
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Laundry If there is no washing machine in your accommodation you can take your clothes to a launderette. You can wash them in the machines yourself or you can leave them with the attendant who will wash them for you, however, this will cost more. You will need coins to operate the washing
machines and dryers and your own soap powder. Any clothes you buy in the UK will have labels attached with symbols explaining the best way to wash them. If you are not sure what they mean, ask someone.
Food Large Supermarkets like Tesco and Sainsburys will probably satisfy most of your needs. You will find they sell fresh fruit and vegetables, general groceries, meat, fish, frozen foods, ready-made meals (to heat in an oven or micro- wave), toiletries, bathroom and kitchen products, some clothes and some electrical items. Food prices in Markets are often lower than elsewhere and the food produce is local and very fresh. If you need to buy Halal meat you can find this in some of the shops in St Helens Road, Swansea where there are Asian stores. They also sell a large selection of spices and produce from all over the world including fresh fruit, vegetables and frozen fish which you might not find elsewhere. See also the leaflet, ‘Shopping for Bargains’ available in Student Services. Water from the cold taps is safe to drink, unless otherwise stated.
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Emergencies & Personal Safety Emergency services If you need an Ambulance, the Police or the Fire Service in a serious emergency use any phone and dial 999 (these calls are free). To call the emergency services from an internal phone, dial 9-999.
Safety West Wales is generally a very safe place in which to live. At the same time, however, we all need to be aware of our surroundings and make sure that we keep our eyes open for anything unusual. If you ever feel your safety is threatened, then contact the police immediately.
Fire Make sure you know the fire safety procedures for any building you are in, you will find the instructions on ‘Fire Action’ signs in all the University buildings. If you are in private accommodation ask your landlord. A good landlord will supply a fire extinguisher, a fire blanket and have smoke detectors installed in the accommodation. If a fire has been started as a result of an electrical fault, do not try to put it out with water. You can buy smoke detectors from many shops selling household goods. These require a battery and are a very good method of warning about fires in the home. If you would like any further advice, you can discuss the matter with the Health and Safety Officer or a Counsellor. In the case of a fire, you should contact the Emergency Services immediately.
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At night If you are going into town late at night, it is always wise to go with others rather than alone. It is advisable to take a taxi home rather than walk the streets late at night.
Gas and electricity Heaters and cookers normally use either gas or electricity. Both types of heater need good air circulation and should not be left on at night. Gas appliances should be checked every year for safety and this is the responsibility of the landlord. If you are living in private accommodation ask the landlord for a certificate from a Gas Safe Registered servicer to show that this has been done. Electrical apparatus in the UK uses 240 volts which may be different from your own country. If you have brought electrical equipment from home you may need to buy adapters from a shop which sells electrical goods. If you have any concerns about health and safety during your stay here speak to a Counsellor in Student Services.
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Seeking Help & Advice During your time with us you may need to ask someone for information, you may have a problem of some sort, or you may just feel a little lonely and wish to talk to someone. There are many people here who can help you.
Programme lecturers If it is an academic matter, related to your work, your Programme tutor should be the first person you approach. He or she will either help you personally or be able to refer you to someone else who can.
Student services counsellors Students may experience problems of widely differing types, ranging from practical difficulties to those of a very personal nature. Being a student can bring the complexities of coping, perhaps for the first time, on a limited budget and in new surroundings, with possible difficulties of inter-personal relationships and pre-exam tension. In an atmosphere of confidentiality and trust, the Counsellors will listen to students who wish to discuss their problems, personal, financial or educational. Without seeking to impose values, they will try to help to achieve an all-round view of problems, enabling students to make informed decisions. Information sheets on such topics as study skills, financial help for students and coping strategies, are available. International students wishing to meet British families in their homes can make arrangements through our links with HOST UK.
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International Office The International Office provides pastoral care to all international students on all campuses. You can meet our Senior International Student Support Officer and International Student Ambassadors through a variety of activities and drop-in sessions throughout the academic year. Information will be emailed to your student email account regularly with information on welfare provisions and cultural activities.
Outside sources of help Citizens’ Advice Bureau The Citizens’ Advice Bureau provide free, confidential, impartial and independent advice mainly in practical matters such as the law, housing matters, money matters, debt counselling and citizens’ rights including consumer rights and employment rights.
Samaritans This is a national organisation to help all people in trouble. They offer a free telephone help line to anyone who is depressed, despairing or have suicidal feelings. You can phone them at any time of the day or night and talk to them in confidence about how you feel. They will always listen. Refer to page 58 for contact details.
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Student Services Disabilities
Finance office
Students with disabilities are important to us and they are encouraged to inform us of a disability or health problem before they arrive so that we can ensure that any needs for support and assistance are met. Student Services staff will help students with organising support workers and providing technical equipment. They can also advise on suitable accommodation and on access issues. Special arrangements can be made for examinations and assessments if necessary. In past years a lively Disabled Students group has existed which has acted as a support group and provided useful feedback on developing facilities.
You pay your tuition fees to the finance office staff and they will help you with any questions you may have.
Accommodation The Accommodation Officer is responsible for dealing with accommodation applications and allocating rooms in the Halls of Residence. Unless you have agreed otherwise with the Accommodation Officer, you will be expected to sign a legally binding contract which requires you to pay full fees and remain in Halls for the entire academic year. If you would prefer to live in private rented accommodation in the town, the Accommodation Officer will be able to provide you with lists of addresses of bedsits, flats or shared houses. If you move into private rented accommodation you will probably be asked to sign a contract, agreeing the length of time you will live there, the rent and other conditions. The contract is a legally binding document enforceable in the courts. Read it very carefully before signing and if you are unsure of anything in the contract ask the Accommodation Officer. Refer to page 58 for contact details.
Students’ union During the enrolment session you will be able to meet the officers of the Students’ Union (SU) and register for your NUS Extra Card. The SU is an organisation that is run by students for students and offers a number of services, including representation, welfare, sports, societies and entertainments. Representation is one of the key features of our Students’ Union. The SU aims to ensure that there is some form of student representation on all University committees, so that the student voice is taken into consideration whenever decisions are made. If a student encounters any academic or disciplinary issues, the SU President will represent them (at the student’s request) to the relevant parties. The SU President works full time for students and has responsibility for academic affairs, campaigns and representation, as well as union development.
Registry The staff there will enrol you on your course and help with questions relating to enrolment, registration, your visa and other practical matters concerned with your course. It is essential that you enrol on your chosen course and also inform Registry of any changes to your personal circumstances e.g. change of address, telephone number etc. If you need any letters confirming that you are enrolled as a student here and giving details of your course, then you should speak to Registry. Refer to page 58 for contact details
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Medical Care & Wellbeing Medical treatment If you study in the UK for six months or more, you will be able to use the services of the National Health Service (NHS) from the day you arrive in the UK. It is a good idea to register with a doctor as soon as you arrive in the UK. If you have questions or need advice about registering with a doctor, please contact the University Student Services. You can see a doctor free of charge, though you may have to pay a fixed cost for any medication you need. You pay for medication at the pharmacy where you receive the medication. Under the NHS, hospital treatment is also free. There are no charges for food or shared rooms. If you study for less than six months, and you come from a country which has an agreement on healthcare with the UK, you will not have to pay for healthcare services, and other aspects of living in the UK, read the British Council publication, Studying and Living in the United Kingdom, available within the Student Support Centre.
Dental treatment If you are registered with the NHS, you are entitled to the services of an NHS dentist. You should register with a dentist, otherwise you might have to wait for some time for an appointment when you need treatment. If you are registered with a dentist, you can have a course of treatment. Some dentists offer treatment under the National Health Service (NHS), but many do not. Ask the dentist whether NHS patients are accepted. NHS treatment is not free. You still have to pay 80% of the total cost. Even if you are eligible for free NHS treatment, you should take out health insurance which covers the cost of
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repatriation in case you need to be flown home because of serious illness or death. For more information on healthcare Appointments under the NHS are limited in number, and you might not be able to get an NHS appointment quickly. If you are in pain and need treatment quickly, it is likely that you will have to pay the full cost. For emergency dental treatment please refer to the NHS website and go to the dental section. This will give you instructions on how to contact a dentist in an emergency.
What is meningitis? It is a disease which can develop very rapidly. Most of the early symptoms are mild and similar to those you get with ‘flu, for example: vomiting, feeling feverish, pain in the back or joints, a headache and a stiff neck. It is advisable to have an inoculation against the meningitis C strain. This is especially important if you are living in the Halls of Residence. Your Doctor can arrange for you to be inoculated. If you are interested, or would like to discuss the matter, please ask a counsellor at Student Services for more information. If you study for less than six months, and you do not come from a country which has an agreement on healthcare with the UK, you will have to pay for a private consultation and for any medication you require. You should take out medical insurance to cover these charges.
Tuberculosis (TB) protection All new students, from countries with a high incidence of Tuberculosis (TB), (China, Japan, all African Countries and all Middle East Countries) studying at University of Wales Trinity Saint David, from September 2016, will be required to undergo compulsory screening, as part of a Public Health Wales initiative. To avoid any inconvenience to students, the screening will be conducted by Public Health Wales Staff, and will be carried out on University Premises, at Swansea Business Campus, Carmarthen Campus and Lampeter Campus during October 2016. You will be contacted by letter for your appointment. If you have any concerns please contact the international office by email internationaloffice@uwtsd.ac.uk More details on the process are available on HYPERLINK “http://www.gov.uk/ government/publications/latent-tbtesting-and-treatment-leaflet� www. gov.uk/government/publications/ latent-tb-testing-and-treatment-leaflet
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Tier 4 Visa Student Responsibilities This section applies to students who have a Tier 4 visa to study at UWTSD. As a Tier 4 student, you must ensure that you satisfy the Home Office terms and conditions of your immigration permission throughout your period of study.
Important Do’s and Don’ts
This is a legal obligation and, if you fail to comply with any of the conditions attached to your Tier 4 visa, you may be withdrawn from your programme at UWTSD. This would then require that your visa is terminated and could further result in the refusal of any future UK immigration applications that you may wish to make.
Do
If you have any concerns about your responsibilities, you can contact the Principal International Coordinator in the University’s Registry at the email address: international@ uwtsd.ac.uk or you can telephone the Main Reception on 01792 481000 and ask to speak to the Principal International Coordinator in the Registry Department .
If you have arrived in the UK after the start date of your course and have not previously notified the University of your delay, please ensure that you immediately contact your Faculty Administration Office or the Registry on your campus to ensure that your Visa has remained valid.
In this section of your International Student Welcome Guide we have provided some key information for you.
Look at the Home Office website regularly https://www. gov.uk/browse/visas-immigration/student-visas for information and updates on Visa issues relevant to your circumstances.
If you have required a Tier 4 visa to travel to the UK, you will have been given a ‘vignette’ in your passport that is valid only for 30 days. Within 10 days of your arrival in the UK, you must then collect your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) from the Post Office branch that has been notified to you by UKVI. If you are unsure how to do this, please speak with International Office staff during your induction activities. If you notice any errors in the information given on your Visa or Biometric Residence Permit, please alert staff at the International Office or Registry on your campus to help you get these corrected by UK Visas and Immigration. On your enrolment, the University staff will take a photocopy of your passport and of your Visa or Biometric Residence Permit and will sign each copy to confirm that that they have seen the original version of these documents. It is essential, if you change your passport or Visa documentation at any time during your stay, that you immediately bring the new documents to the Registry team on your campus to ensure that your student record is correct and up-to date.
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If you are not staying in University accommodation, please ensure that you provide your Landlord with a copy of your Visa or Biometric Residence Permit. Make every effort to pass each stage of your course, and progress well. Please be aware that you will only be allowed to re-sit an examination twice. Inform your course tutor if you wish to discontinue your studies, defer your studies or suspend your studies, or transfer to a different course at the University. This will have an impact on your permission to stay in the UK, and you should seek advice from the Principal International Coordinator in the Registry department if you are planning to change any of the conditions of your studies. If you are unable to complete your studies within the period stated on your Visa, please contact your Faculty Administration Office or Registry on your campus to seek an extension to your Visa.
Please also look at the following websites for further information and up to date documents: UK Visas & Immigration https://www.gov.uk/browse/ visas-immigration/student-visas UKCISA – The UK Council for International Student Affairs - http://www.ukcisa.org.uk/Information--Advice/Visasand-Immigration/Tier-4-eligibility-and-requirements UKCISA ‘public funds’ - http://www.ukcisa.org.uk/ Information--Advice/Fees-and-Money/WelfareBenefits#layer-3690 UKCISA ‘Tier 4 Sponsor Licence duties’ - http:// www.ukcisa.org.uk/Information--Advice/Visas-andImmigration/Protecting-your-Tier-4-status#layer-3304
Don’t You must not stay in the UK after the date stated in your passport or Visa unless you have applied to the Home Office to extend your current Visa or to apply for a visa under a new Visa category. You must not claim Child Benefit, tax credits or any other ‘public funds’, and do not allow anyone else to make a claim for them on your behalf. If you do not know what may be included as ‘public funds’, please see the UKCISA website. For further help and information contact the Principal International Coordinator on email: international@uwtsd.ac.uk
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University’s Duties to the Home Office When you hear ‘Tier 4 sponsor’, this means your University; the University who gave you a CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance of Studies) to enable you to apply for your Tier 4 visa to study in the UK. All Tier 4 sponsors have specific duties that they must undertake, which are outlined in the Home Office’s guidance: Tier 4 of the Points Based System – Policy Guidance. The University has specific UKVI sponsor reporting duties which it must carry out for all Tier 4 students studying at the University. If any of the following circumstances should occur, the University must report it to UKVI:
• You fail to enrol within the enrolment period • You fail to attend your classes, tutorials and meetings • You transfer courses • The duration of your studies changes • You withdraw from your course or discontinue
your studies • The University has evidence that you are breaking the conditions of your Tier 4 visa
Visa Compliance Why is Compliance important? The University of Wales Trinity Saint David holds a Tier 4 Sponsor licence which allows us to sponsor international students to come to the UK to study. In order to retain the Tier 4 Sponsor Licence, you and the University have an obligation to follow the rules set out by the Home Office.
Consequences of non-compliance If you do not follow all of the conditions required by your Visa, the University will have no choice but to report this circumstance to the Home Office. This may then result in the termination of your Tier 4 Visa which wll require you to withdraw from your studies and to leave the UK. It is very important that you maintain your Tier 4 visa by understanding the responsibilities that are attached to it. If you require any advice or assistance with any aspect of your student Visa, please make an appointment with the International Office or Registry on your campus as they would be pleased to help.
We would advise you to read the information provided by UKCISA (UK Council of International Student Affairs) and the Home Office (UKVI) if you would like to know more about your Sponsor’s responsibilities.
Register with the Police If your BRP or the ‘vignette’ visa in your passport has been marked with an instruction to ‘Register with the Police’, make sure that you do this within seven days of arriving in the UK; or if you are required to collect BRP after arriving in the UK, within seven days of doing so. This issue will be covered in your induction and registration events at the University but if you require more information, please contact the International Office: internationaloffice@uwtsd.ac.uk. If you have been required to register with the Police, you must also inform them if you change your UK address or if you extend your visa. For more information, pick up a guide from Registry on ‘Police Registration’.
Working whilst you are a student in the UK You must not take any paid, unpaid or voluntary work in the UK for more that the hours stated on your visa. For Tier 4 visa-holders, this will be 20 hours during termtime with unlimited hours permitted during vacations or holidays. Please see the UKCISA website http://www. ukcisa.org.uk/Information--Advice/Working/Can-youwork for further information regarding work opportunities for your specific Visa. For most types of UK Visa that support your studies at UWTSD, you are not permitted to carry out any commercial business activities in the UK. If you have any plans for this, please seek advice from the Principal International Coordinator by email: international@uwtsd.ac.uk.
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Top 10 Tips to comply with your visa 1. Check your University email account at least once a day! - The University will contact you via your student email account with information on important matters so make sure you check your email on a regular basis. 2. Update your contact details by providing the University with your latest UK contact details – address, telephone number and email address. If you change any of these after enrolling you must inform Registry immediately so that your records are kept up-to-date. 3. Know the conditions of your visa such as your working rights. The time limits available to you should be stated on your visa documents but if you are not sure, ask the Principal International Coordinator at International@uwtsd. ac.uk before taking up any employment oportunities. 4. Bring any new immigration documents to the Registry Department. If you receive a new visa or passport during your studies you must take it to the Registry department as the University is required to keep copies of all passports and visas for Tier 4 students. 5. Attend 100% of your classes on your timetable and sign the register (or scan your Student ID card on to a Card Reader device) at each session. If you have to be absent for a session, don’t forget to inform your School in advance and, whenever possible, give them evidence of why you cannot attend.
for Authorised Absence. You should make your request through your Faculty Administration Office and wait for their approval before you buy any travel tickets. 8. Enrol on your programme at the start of each academic year. You will also be asked to attend two further reregistration points later in the year. This is part of the University’s attendance monitoring processes and it is a requirement that you attend. At these sessions, you will be asked to bring your visa and passport, and to confirm that your UK contact details are up to date. 9. Attend all meeting requests. If you are invited to a meeting by the School, or the Tier 4 compliance team, or any other University department it is very important that you attend the meeting. If you cannot attend the meeting then you need to inform the person you are meeting so that this can be rearranged. 10. If you require an extension to your visa, for example where the duration of your current visa does not cover the full-period of your course. You can make an application for a visa extension up to 3 months before your current visa expires. Please contact the Registry team on your campus for advice on how to do this.
6. You should use the same signature when you sign your name on each register. 7. You should avoid travelling during term-time but, if you feel this is necessary, you must apply in advance
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European, Erasmus+ and Erasmus Mundus Students UWTSD is a popular choice for students across Europe. Along with a large number of students from outside of the EU you will be part of a lively, friendly and cosmopolitan international community. We have links with universities across Europe that cover a variety of courses. Whether you are here for a full year or a few months, you will benefit from excellent learning resources, support services and a wide range of events and activities in which you can participate. We hope that the International and European Student Welcome Guide will give you some useful information about what it is like studying at UWTSD and living in Wales. We wish to reassure you that following the UK vote to leave the EU, there will be no immediate changes to your immigration status or fees and you will continue to receive your loans and grants until you finish your course. Should you have any concerns or wish to speak with a member of staff we have a team of people with whom you can discuss a wide range of matters. Please refer to page 58 for contact details.
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Careers Service The Careers Service is available to all students and graduates of the University of Wales Trinity Saint David. From the day you arrive, and throughout your studies and beyond, our professionally qualified Careers Advisers are here all year round to support you in making informed decisions about your next steps and in maximising your potential and employability. Our Careers Advisers are able to assist you with all aspects of career planning:
• Choosing a career • Job-seeking strategies • Application procedures and CVs • Interview techniques • Work experience • Course changes • Further study options
UWTSD
WAS RANKED
#2 out of 46 institutions FOR ‘Careers & Employability Service’
in the Global International Student Barometer and Student Barometer, Autumn Wave 2015.
We also post information about local and national job vacancies, careers-related events and various career paths on our facebook page (University of Wales Trinity Saint David Careers Service) and on Twitter (@ uwtsdcareers). The Careers Service is located centrally on each campus:
• Carmarthen - Canolfan Myddfai, behind the Students’ Union • Lampeter - Canterbury building, next to the LRC (Library) • Swansea - Mount Pleasant campus, just off the Main Reception Our opening hours are:
• Monday to Thursday 9.00am–5.00pm • Friday 9.00am–4.30pm
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Hours of work International students, studying a Bachelor’s, Master’s or PhD will be allowed to work part-time (up to 20 hours per week) during term time and full-time during vacations, you will not have to seek approval from the Home Office before you commence employment. (Note: Postgraduate students are not permitted to work full- time during the summer vacation if they have not completed their- writingup or dissertation or any aspect of their course study). Please refer to your visa for details. International students studying a Foundation Level or Higher National Diploma (HND) may usually take a job for a maximum of 10 hours a week during term time and with no restrictions on hours during vacations. However, it is important to check restrictions on your visa very carefully.
Obtaining a national insurance number After you have received an offer for any part time job in the UK, you will need to apply to the Benefits Agency for a National Insurance Number. You will be asked a number of questions. You can ask for an interpreter if you wish. You will then be given an appointment to attend an interview at the local Job Centre Plus offices. Jobcentre Plus will arrange an Evidence of Identity (EOI) interview for you or send you a postal application. They will confirm the date, time and location of your interview. They will also tell you what information and documentation is required to support your application.
Other useful organisations UKCISA The Council for International Education is a very useful organisation for International Students. They are able to give advice on a range of issues, in particular, immigration matters, fees, student support and other issues. They are usually able to answer queries when you have failed to obtain an answer elsewhere. They have an ‘Advice Line’ for international students, their families or friends.
UK Visas and Immigration UK Visas is under the joint management of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and the Immigration and Nationality Directorate of the Home Office.
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Travelling in the UK Coaches There is a regular and reliable service to London, Heathrow airport, Gatwick airport and Stansted airport. The journey to London takes approximately four hours. You can find out more information about the coach services, timetables and fares from the enquiry office.
Eurostar Eurostar trains run from Waterloo Station in London, via the Channel Tunnel, to other European destinations such as Paris, Lille, Brussels. It can connect you to over 100 places in Europe. Find out more information
Trains There is a train station in Swansea and Carmarthen and a bus service between Lampeter and Carmarthen. The train travels to most other parts of the UK. There is an hourly train service to London, Paddington. The journey takes approximately three hours. Students can often obtain special cheap fares but you must ask about this some time before you want to travel. There is an enquiry office at the train station where you can ask for timetables and seek help and advice about travel.
Taxis These are more expensive than the buses but can be useful late at night or if you are in a hurry and travelling within a short distance to the University. You may also find them cheaper if you are travelling in a group and there are several people to share the cost.
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Driving a car To drive a car in the United Kingdom you need a licence. An international licence obtained in your own country will cover you for the first year of your stay. If you leave the country and then return, your international licence will be automatically renewed but if you stay in the UK different rules apply depending on your country of origin. Some people can be automatically issued with a UK driving licence but others have to take a driving test. Information leaflet D100 will give you details and you can obtain this from Post Offices. Any car you drive must have a Road Fund licence disc displayed on the windscreen. You must also be properly insured. More information is available in Student Services. It is illegal to drive a car in the UK without proper driving license insurance and without a Road Fund licence. The Road Fund licence can only be obtained on production of a current MOT Certificate certifying that the car is safe to drive. Ask for more information from Student Services if you are unsure about this.
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Money Matters If you need to change money when you arrive in the UK, you can change traveller’s cheques at any bank or exchange bureau. To open a bank account in the UK, you will need a letter from UWTSD to confirm that you are a student and to confirm your local address. Many banks will also ask you for a utility bill (a gas or electricity bill) which shows your address. Clearly, you may not be able to provide this and you will need to explain the situation to the bank. The bank may also wish to see your passport or identity card, and in some cases may ask for a letter from your bank in your home country. The bank or building society will help you to decide which type of account is the best for you. Some may offer special facilities for students. The bank will advise you on arrangements for accounts, cheque books and cash cards. In some cases, banks may prefer to offer you only a cash card with your account. The arrangements available to you may also depend on the length of your stay in the UK. In order to open a student bank account, some banks will accept your unconditional offer letter, providing it states your address in your home country. Before you leave your home country ask your bank if it has a special relationship with a bank in the UK as this might help you to set up an account in the UK. Most banks and building societies are open from 0930 to 1630. Some are also open on Saturday mornings. The main banks and building societies are: Santander, Barclays, Halifax, HSBC, Lloyds TSB, Nationwide, RBS and Natwest.
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Transfer of currency Do not attempt to transfer money from one currency to another without first consulting your bank. If you have any problems with banking ask to see the Bank’s Student Adviser or your Account Adviser.
Insurance We recommend that you insure your belongings while you are here. The Student Union can advise you on insurance. It is advisable to get a few quotes before you decide because the costs vary. Refer to page 58 for Student Finance contact details.
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Useful websites
Other useful websites
Further Advice Citizens Advice Bureaux www.citizensadvice.org.uk
British Council www.britishcouncil.org
Emergency Services All Emergency Services Dial 999 Eurostar www.eurostar.com Job Centre Plus www.gov.uk/contact-jobcentre-plus
British Library www.bl.uk British Tourist Authority www.visitbritain.com Embassies In UK www.gov.uk/government/publications/foreign-embassiesin-the-uk
National Insurance Number www.gov.uk/apply-national-insurance-number
Endsleigh Insurance www.endsleigh.co.uk/Student/Pages/student-insurance. aspx
National Express Bus Company www.nationalexpress.com
Equality & Humanities Commission www.equalityhumanrights.com
NHS Direct www.nhs.uk
Foreign And Commonwealth Office www.gov.uk/government/organisations/foreigncommonwealth-office
Samaritans www.samaritans.org.uk Taxis www.taxinumber.com/taxis/swansea Trains www.nationalrail.co.uk
Home Office (Visas) www.gov.uk/government/organisations/home-office Immigration Advisory Service www.iasuk.org/home.aspx Interactive Map Of The UK www.bing.com/maps International Students House www.ish.org.uk
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London Tourist Board www.visitlondon.com National Union Of Students www.nus.org.uk Network Rail www.networkrail.co.uk News, Current Affairs, Sport & Arts www.bbc.co.uk Television License (TV License) www.tvlicensing.co.uk UK Student Life www.ukstudentlife.com UKCISA: Council For International Ed www.ukcisa.org.uk Visit Wales www.visitwales.com Weather www.metoffice.gov.uk Worldwide Newspapers www.onlinenewspapers.com
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Contact Us Department
Carmarthen
Lampeter
Swansea
Accommodation
Jean Thomas Tel: 01267 676819 Email: jean.thomas@uwtsd. ac.uk
Ann Harris Tel: 01570 424995 Email: a.harris@uwtsd.ac.uk
Jonathan Bradley Tel: 01792 482082 Email: jonathan.bradley@ uwtsd.ac.uk
Career Advisers
Mark Thomas Tel: 01267 676829 Email: mark.thomas@uwtsd. ac.uk
Jane Bellis Tel: 01570 424973 Email: j.bellis@uwtsd.ac.uk
Jane Bellis Tel: 01570 424973 Email: j.bellis@uwtsd.ac.uk
Counselling Service Services for Disabled Students
Helen Davies Tel: 01267 676822 Email: h.e.davies@uwtsd. ac.uk
Nerys Williams Tel: 01570 424960 Email: nerys.williams@ uwtsd.ac.uk
Dominic Williams Tel: 01792 481195 Email: dominic.williams@ uwtsd.ac.uk
Student Finance
Delyth Lewis Tel: 01267 676947 E-mail: d.lewis@uwtsd. ac.uk
Lynda Lloyd-Davies Tel: 01570 424722 E-mail: l.lloyd-davies@ uwtsd.ac.uk
Sharon Alexander Tel: 01792 481123 E-mail: sharon.alexander@ uwtsd.ac.uk
Student Services
Tel: 01267 676830 Email: studentservices@ uwtsd.ac.uk
Tel: 01570 424876 Email: student.support@ uwtsd.ac.uk
Tel: 01792 481206 Email: student.services@ uwtsd.ac.uk
Student Union
Tel: 01267 237794
Tel: 01570 422619
Tel: 01792 655400
Department: All Campuses EAP – English for Academic Purposes Email: Internationaloffice@uwtsd.ac.uk
Registry Email: registryadmissions@uwtsd.ac.uk
EU Enquiries Email: anna.hopkins@uwtsd.ac.uk
Senior International Student Support Officer Email: g.owen@uwtsd.ac.uk
International Office Email: internationaloffice@uwtsd.ac.uk
Student Union Email: union@tsd.ac.uk
Life Design Email: lifedesign@uwtsd.ac.uk
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International Office internationaloffice@uwtsd.ac.uk +44 1792 481000 Twitter www.twitter.com/studyinwales Facebook www.facebook.com/UWTSDinternationaloffice Instagram uwtsdinternationaloffice