re You Hom Leave Essential Guides 2014.
Before You Leave Home.
All you need to know including immigration, health and money.
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Congratulations on your offer to study at the University of Sheffield.
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This guide gives you information about preparing to be a student at the University and the actions you need to take before you leave home.
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Step-by-step guide After you accept a conditional offer
After you accept an unconditional offer
(even if you do not know whether you will meet the conditions)
Follow the steps for a conditional offer plus:
Read the information in this booklet carefully
Ensure you have a ? CAS Statement email (if overseas fee paying student) page 10 – 11
Ensure you have a passport, valid for travel to the UK
Tuberculosis test (if necessary) page 14
Apply for ? ATAS (if necessary) page 11
Apply for visa/entry clearance page 14
Obtain exit visa from your own government (if necessary) page 8
Take out medical insurance if staying less than six months and/or to cover arrival period (if necessary) page 19
Complete any forms required by your sponsor (if necessary) page 12
Arrange to bring originals or certified copies of qualifications (graduates only)
Apply for English Language Preparatory Course or International Summer School (if appropriate) page 6
Book travel arrangements page 22
Take out insurance for possessions
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If you see this symbol it means that you must take early action if you intend to take up your offer.
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If you see this symbol it means that the term is defined in the Glossary on page 28.
Contents Preparation you can do now
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Immigration
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Money
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Your health
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If you have a disability
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Students with children of school age
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Arriving in Sheffield
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Glossary
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Dates of future academic sessions
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Terms and conditions
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Contact details
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What happens next?
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Firth Court 5
Preparation you can do now Whichever university you choose, there are skills you will need to live independently and to be successful in your studies. Studying in a new country is an exciting challenge; in this section we give some advice about maximising your chances of settling in well and being a successful student.
Academic preparation The way you are taught and assessed in the UK may be quite different from what you are used to. In addition to lectures, staff will probably expect you to discuss ideas in seminars, tutorials and group work. They will also expect you to spend a lot of time doing independent study. The following resources will help you to prepare. Prepare for Success This is an interactive online tool for international students who are getting ready to come to the UK for further or higher education. It contains learning resources which are activity-based to help you find out about different aspects of academic life in the UK and the skills needed for effective study. As well as preparing you for what to expect during your studies, the activities can also help you to improve your English language. www.prepareforsuccess.org.uk The Academic Skills Hub (TASH) These web pages are full of practical advice and guidance about studying at the University of Sheffield. www.sheffield.ac.uk/tash Mathematics and Statistics Help (MASH) A helpful resource for Maths and Statistics: www.sheffield.ac.uk/mash
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Language preparation If you have an offer conditional on English language, a preparatory course at our English Language Teaching Centre (ELTC) is well worth considering. Even if your English score meets our conditions, the ELTC Summer School can help you further improve your language skills. It also gives you an opportunity to get used to working in an English-speaking environment before studies begin. Our staff are experienced in teaching international students and can help you improve your English both before and during your studies. There are different courses you can take to improve your English before you join your University department. For more information including course types and dates, visit: www.sheffield.ac.uk/eltc or contact: Tel: +44 (0)114 222 1780 Email: eltc@sheffield.ac.uk ELTC's web pages include many language learning ideas www.sheffield.ac.uk/eltc/languagelearning Here are some other good resources for you to familiarise yourself with the range of accents and dialects and more colloquial English: BBC World Service in English – Radio, TV programmes and podcasts www.bbc.co.uk/worldservice BBC World Service – Learning English www.bbc.co.uk/worldservice/learningenglish You can also access many UK newspapers and magazines online or from the British Council and libraries.
Immigration preparation You must read this booklet and keep checking our web pages for the most up-to-date information ! The immigration authorities can change immigration requirements regularly and at short notice. Wherever you study in the UK, this information will help you prepare your immigration application. •
! The academic qualifications listed on your CAS must be translated by an official translator if they are not in English. The translation MUST include all the requirements noted on page 14.
You will need to ensure that: • The money for your studies should all be in your name for at least 28 days before you apply for your visa – your visa will be refused if your bank balance falls below the required amount even if this is only for one day. • If the money is still in your parents’ name, it must be in their account[s] – again the balance must not fall below the minimum amount required. Your birth certificate must be translated (like academic certificates) if you are using money in your parents’ name[s] or your visa will be refused. Your parents also need to provide a letter confirming they are supporting you. • The bank documents for you or your parents must not be more than 31 days old on the date you make your application or your visa will be refused. • If your visa application is refused you must tell us as the University is required to report this to the UK immigration authorities. Email: visa.refusal@sheffield.ac.uk • If ATAS (page 11) applies to your course, remember it can take a month to obtain clearance and you cannot apply for a visa until you have it. Peace Gardens, City Centre 7
Immigration ! There is a lot of information in this section but it is important that you read it carefully. The information in this booklet is accurate as of March 2014. There could be changes to rules and procedures before you apply for your visa – keep checking our website for the most up to date information. www.sheffield.ac.uk/ssid/international/ immigration The UK’s Points Based System (PBS) of immigration for students requires 40 points: 30 points will be awarded for a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) and 10 points for maintenance (living expenses), see: www.sheffield.ac.uk/ssid/international/ immigration/overseas Students on courses of more than 12 months must have sufficient funds to pay the first year’s tuition fee plus £7,380 for the first year in the UK. For more information please see page 12 Proof of Funding.
General information Like most countries, Britain has strict immigration regulations. If you have formally accepted a place at our University and have the correct evidence of the funds to support yourself in this country, you should be able to obtain a visa without much difficulty. You cannot register for, or start a course at any university until you have a visa that names your university, or have evidence that you have applied to change your visa to that university. European Union/EEA nationals can enter the UK without a visa, but may still have to show evidence of funding. See UK immigration authorities web pages: www.gov.uk/visas-immigration EEA Nationals, see page 12. All non-EEA/EU nationals need a visa to study in the UK for courses longer than six months. See UK immigration authorities web pages: www.gov.uk/browse/visas-immigration/ study-visas
! You cannot enter the UK as a general visitor or a researcher. You must only enter on a visa for a student or student visitor. If you enter as general visitor, student visitor, researcher, employee (apart from Tier 2 or Tier 1 Post Study Work) or dependant you cannot change to student status from within Britain. You must return to your home country for a fresh visa as a student. Visas for courses longer than six months Without a visa as a student or student visitor you cannot enter the UK to study. You won’t be able to use your Tier 4 visa more than one month before your course starts. You should check the validity dates on your visa before booking travel tickets. www.sheffield.ac.uk/ssid/international/ immigration/overseas/duration
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Visas for studying six months or less in the UK If you are studying for six months or less and are a visa national, you need to apply for a student visa before traveling to the UK – see the list of visa nationals here: www.gov.uk/check-uk-visa If you are not a visa national and you are coming to the UK for a maximum of six months, you can apply for a category of visa called ‘student visitor’. We strongly advise you to apply for this before you leave home. It is possible to get this from immigration officials at the airport/port of entry but there can be problems if you request this visa on arrival. If you already have the visa, there should be no hold up on entry. Duration of ? Tier 4 visas • For the length of visa you can expect, visit: www.sheffield.ac.uk/ssid/international/ immigration/overseas/duration • If you do not get your full entitlement, ask to speak to the entry clearance manager at the visa office. We may be able to help you sort this out after you arrive in Sheffield. • Extending your visa in the UK is expensive. At the time of print, fees are £422 for main applicants and £422 for each dependant. Make sure you check the costs in advance of making an immigration application in the UK. • If your course is 12 months or more you should be given leave until a date four months after the end of the programme of studies as stated on the CAS statement email. • If you do not have an unconditional offer for your degree course, your leave entitlement will only be for the length of any preparatory course (English or Foundation). • If you are 18 years old or older you cannot spend more than three years in the UK studying below degree level in your lifetime e.g. Foundation degree, A Levels.
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If you are studying at undergraduate and/or Masters level, you cannot spend more than five years studying in the UK with either a Tier 4 (General) student visa or student visa in your lifetime. However, there are some exceptions to this rule. For more information see: www.sheffield.ac.uk/ssid/international/ immigration/responsibilities/time-limits
If you have a student visitor visa, you cannot work part time or apply to extend your stay in the UK. University responsibilities under Tier 4 The UK Government requires colleges and universities to report students who do not register and attend. • Your visa/residence permit includes the sponsor licence number for the institution whose CAS you use in your visa application. You cannot register or study at any other institution. • You cannot register at the University of Sheffield without a student visa containing our sponsor licence number, or evidence that you have applied to extend your visa for the University of Sheffield. • To change to another university, you must make a new visa application. You must use the CAS number from the university you wish to attend. • Universities must inform the immigration authorities of students (with visas for that institution) who do not register. • If you defer entry, the University will inform the immigration authorities. You may need to apply for a new visa when you come for your new course start date. • We must inform immigration authorities if you do not attend lectures/seminars regularly.
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We must inform immigration authorities if you start a work or study placement during your studies. Students who take time off from their studies (leave of absence) or who leave the University before their course end date are expected to return to their home country. This will also be reported. You will need a new visa to re-enter the UK.
More information can be found on the UK Visa and Immigration website, see: www.gov.uk/government/organisations/ uk-visas-and-immigration and www.sheffield.ac.uk/ssid/international/ immigration
Students already in the UK You cannot stay in the UK if there are more than 28 days between your last visa ending and your new course starting. You cannot register or attend the University of Sheffield unless your visa names the University of Sheffield, or you have already made an application to extend your visa for the University. Postal and online applications are currently taking two to three months. At the time of print, fees are £422 for main applicants and £422 for each dependant. In person (face-to-face) applications will cost £822 plus £822 per family member included on the application form. The fees for partners and children aged under 18 not applying at the same time as the student, or children aged over 18 are £422 if applying by post or £822 if applying in person. Appointments for in person applications get booked up quickly. If you are currently studying elsewhere in the UK but will come to Sheffield to study, please read the information on the following website: www.sheffield.ac.uk/ssid/international/ immigration/responsibilities/student
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The University of Sheffield is working hard to ensure that Government requirements are fair to students and we comply with them, as all other universities/colleges are required to do. Applying for your Student Visa If you have a Tier 4 visa for another institution (and applied for it on or after 5 October 2009) you must apply for a new Tier 4 visa for the University of Sheffield before you can register for your course. CAS We will send you a CAS Application email that will direct you to an online CAS Application System. There you will be asked to confirm your personal information. You must check the information carefully. If the details are not correct, your visa will be refused. • Is the date of birth the same as in your passport? • Is the spelling of your name the same as in your passport? • Is the title of your previous qualification(s) the same as the English translation on your certificate(s)? When you have confirmed your details online, the University will apply to the immigration authorities for a CAS number for you. This shows that we support your application for a student visa application. When your CAS number is ready, we will send you a CAS Notification email. You will be able to view your CAS Statement online. This will include both the CAS number and the information we gave the immigration authorities in support of your CAS application. This should be the same as the information you use in your visa application.
Information Commons
Your CAS Statement will also include information about your previous qualifications. You will need the originals of these documents for your visa application and translations if they are not in English already. If you have any questions or would like more information about how we will apply for a CAS number for you, please visit our CAS application web pages: www.sheffield.ac.uk/cas-application www.sheffield.ac.uk/international/ welcome/cas-application/faqs Your CAS can only be used for one visa application. If you are refused, you will need a new CAS. ATAS Non-EU/EEA students coming to the UK for some Taught Masters programmes and research areas must have ATAS clearance before applying for a student visa. Your offer letter will tell you if ATAS is required.
The areas affected are mostly medicine, science and engineering and will be identified by JACs codes. If ATAS applies to you, the information you require (JACs code and description of programme) will be included in your offer letter. Your CAS will confirm to the immigration authorities whether you need ATAS.
! ATAS applications can take at least 20 working days, usually more. Apply for ATAS clearance online as soon as possible if you need it. Without ATAS clearance you will: • Not be able to apply for a visa • Not be allowed to register for your course. For more information see the Foreign and Commonwealth Office website: www.gov.uk/academic-technologyapproval-scheme
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! Proof of funding You must have sufficient funding for tuition fees, personal living expenses (maintenance) and the maintenance of any dependants who come with you or who will join you later. The documents you use must be exactly what the UK immigration authorities require. There is no flexibility in this (see page 13). The UK Government says you must have these sums: • For courses of nine months or less: - £820 per month for the duration of your course - Full tuition fee. • For courses of more than nine months: - £7,380 to cover living costs - First year’s tuition fee. • If you are bringing dependants - As above, plus - £460 per month for each dependant (e.g. spouse, child) up to a maximum of nine months. If funds are in your name you must show: • Bank or savings statements or a letter from a financial institution. • That you have had these funds for at least 28 days. The date of the bank statement will be counted as the end of the 28 day period. This date must not be more than 31 days before the date you make your application. • Your name, account number, the date of the statement or letter and the financial institution’s name and logo. • Money must be held in a financial institution that is considered to be acceptable by the UK immigration authorities. The UK immigration authorities publish lists of financial institutions that will not be accepted in visa applications. This list can be updated at any time so check it regularly: www.gov.uk/government/publications/ immigration-rules-appendix-p
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If you have an official financial sponsor: • If you have full or part financial sponsorship from one of the following: - Your home government - The British government - The British Council - An international organisation, international company or university. • You must provide a letter from the sponsor showing: - Your name - The name and contact details of the financial sponsor - The date of the letter - The length of time that you and any dependants will be financially sponsored - The amount of money that you and any dependants have or will receive from the sponsor OR a sentence that outlines that the financial sponsor will cover all tuition fees for you and living costs for you and any dependants. • All letters must be on your sponsor’s official stationery or letter-headed paper and have the sponsor’s official stamp on it. • If you are only part financially sponsored, you will need to show that you have the remaining funds yourself. • Parents are not accepted as official “sponsors”. Parents can still provide your necessary funds. You will be considered as “Self Funded” or “Part Funded”.
If you do not have these funds or proof of an internationally recognised sponsor you will not be able to get a visa.
Deposits If you accept an offer for a taught postgraduate programme (Masters), you must pay a tuition fee deposit before we will contact you about a CAS number: www.sheffield.ac.uk/feedeposits If you pay some or all of your tuition or University accommodation fees before your visa application, we will update your CAS record to show this. This will show the Entry Clearance Officer how much you have paid towards your tuition and/or University accommodation fees. A maximum of £1,000 can be deducted from maintenance requirements if you pay for University accommodation before you apply for your visa. Money paid to private providers cannot be deducted.
Using funds from your parents or legal guardian If you do not have the money yet but your parents(s)/legal guardian(s) are willing to support you financially whilst you are a student, you can use their bank statements as evidence of funding. If they transfer the funds to your account in time, you do not need to provide other documentation listed here. You must submit all of the following with your student visa application: • A bank statement in your parents’ name; • Your birth certificate showing the names of your parent(s) OR a certificate of adoption showing your name and your parent(s) or legal guardian(s) name OR a court document stating your name and the name of your legal guardian(s); • A letter from your parent(s) or legal guardian confirming their relationship to you and that your parent(s) or legal guardian give their consent to you using these funds for the purpose of studying in the UK.
Nationals from certain countries will not normally need to present their financial documents and qualifications as part of their visa application. However, these documents can be requested by immigration officials and we recommend that you have these documents prepared. For more information see: www.sheffield.ac.uk/ssid/international/ immigration All visa applicants must sign a declaration confirming that funds are available and will continue to be available when in the UK. Other documents required • Current passport • Application Form • Use the following link to check if you are required to use the online application form or the paper application form: www.gov.uk/tier-4-general-visa See the question at the bottom of the link: Should you apply online or complete an application form on paper? If you need to use the online application form, create an account and complete the application form here: www.visa4uk.fco.gov.uk
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If you need to use the paper application form you need to submit a completed application form for entry clearance VAF9 and PBS Appendix 8 General Student self-assessment form www.gov.uk/visas-immigration - Two passport-sized photographs - The entry clearance fee in local currency - Original certificates or other proof of qualifications you have. These will be listed on your CAS in the section entitled ‘Evidence used to obtain the offer’. - Translations of any documents that are not in English. Translations All your supporting documents including bank documents, qualification transcripts and certificates must be translated into English by an official translator or translation organisation. Sworn affidavits, government translators etc. will not be accepted. The translation must include: • The translator’s credentials • Confirmation from the translator that it is an accurate translation of the original document • The date of the translation • The translator’s full name and signature • The translator’s contact details. Tuberculosis (TB) screening Students from some countries must obtain a certificate to show that they are free from infectious TB before they can obtain a visa. A list of relevant countries can be found at: www.gov.uk/government/publications/ immigration-rules-appendix-t Please bring a copy of this certificate to your registration interview. The University Health Service carries out TB screening for all students who live outside Europe, North America, Australia or New Zealand. They want to see a copy of a chest x-ray report (not the x-ray itself) in English – taken within six months prior 14
to arrival in the UK. Carry this in your hand luggage and bring it to your registration interview. Obtaining prior entry clearance/leave to enter abroad (see page 9) Contact the Entry Clearance Officer at the British Embassy, Consul or High Commission at least one month, but not more than three months, before your course start date to apply for entry clearance. (If you need ATAS, see page 11 – you must apply as early as possible.) There is a charge of £310 per person for processing applications. Application forms and information are free in all British Embassies, Consuls and High Commissions.
! In some countries online applications are possible. Interviews are usually required where online applications are not possible. Interviews may also be conducted before a visa is granted: • There may be a long waiting list for interview appointments. • Book the appointment even before examination results are known. • Take all original documents and any certified translations to the interview. Postgraduate students must get a visa as soon as possible if they wish to live in University accommodation, see www.sheffield.ac.uk/accommodation Immigration regulations and procedures are subject to change. All information in this section should be checked with the British Embassy/High Commission near the time of departure. Up to date information can also be found on the UK visas website: www.ukvisas.gov.uk
Employment Part-time work Non-EU/EEA students on a foundation course or a degree course are allowed to seek part-time work for up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time in vacations. The University recommends that no student works more than 15 hours per week. If you are on a course that is below degree level (with the exception of a foundation course) you will be allowed to work up to ten hours per week during term-time and full-time in vacations. Full-time work You are not allowed to work full-time except in University vacations. Vacations can vary according to level of study. Do not come to the UK depending on paid employment. You cannot rely on potential earnings in the UK to satisfy the maintenance requirements for your visa application. Non-EEA students on courses of six months or less should refer to page 9. If you hold a Tier 4 student visa you can only undertake a work placement if it is an integral and assessed part of your course. Spouse and children If you are studying for a postgraduate course for 12 months or longer you can bring dependants. Different rules apply to government-sponsored students. For more information visit: www.sheffield.ac.uk/ssid/international/ immigration/overseas/dependants Your spouse, civil partner, unmarried or same sex partner can join you as your dependant if you have sufficient money and if you will both be 18 or above when you arrive in the UK.
Your children (under 18) can join you as a dependant if you have sufficient money. Both parents must be residents in the UK unless you are the sole surviving parent and/or have sole responsibility for the child’s upbringing. Children must be under 18, unmarried and must not be a civil partner, leading an independent life and must not have formed an independent family unit. Accommodation must be booked before dependants’ visas can be issued. Dependants have the right to work in the UK. You can get help with preparing your family’s entry clearance application from the Students’ Union’s Student Advice Centre, see: www.sheffield.ac.uk/union/studentadvice-centre/immigration
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Problems entering the UK Refusal If you are refused a visa to the UK, you need to inform the University by sending an email to visa.refusal@sheffield.ac.uk and send us a copy of the refusal letter. We cannot issue a new CAS until we have seen your refusal letter. There is no right of appeal if an application is refused. Applicants can request an Administrative Review where the Entry Clearance Manager will check if the required 40 points have been met or not. Please make contact with us before requesting a review. Immigration advisers in Student Support and Guidance are legally permitted to act as your representatives in study-related immigration matters, if you choose to nominate them. If you have been refused, do not travel to the UK. 16
Interview appointments You should book an appointment with the Embassy/High Commission as soon as you know you will be coming to Sheffield. Remember you cannot apply for a Tier 4 student visa more than three months before your course start date. If you have any questions about applying for your student visa you can contact Student Support and Guidance. Please do this directly, as emailing any other University contacts about immigration questions may delay the process for you. Tel: +44 (0)114 222 1267 Fax: +44 (0)114 222 1304 Email: international.students@sheffield.ac.uk
Money
University financial requirements
Budgeting and cost of living
If you are on a taught postgraduate course (e.g. MSc, MA) you need to pay a deposit of £1,000 when you accept your offer – CAS statements can only be provided after payment of this deposit. Some students on other courses may also be required to pay a deposit when they accept their offer – we will let you know if this affects you.
As stated on page 12, you must have at least this much money to study and live in Sheffield: • £820 per month. • Your tuition fees. • £460 per month for each dependant (spouse or child). Life is more expensive at the beginning of the course. Many items (warm clothing, books, items for room etc.) are needed almost immediately on arrival. Maintenance International students need to guarantee that they have the money as detailed above. Useful budget planners: • www.sheffield.ac.uk/moneyplanner • www.studentcalculator.org.uk/ international Important rules Do not rely on finding paid employment while studying in Britain. Although most students are allowed to work part time, it is not always easy to find employment. International students are not allowed ‘recourse to public funds’ (i.e. most welfare benefits). Sponsors, scholarships and grants will not be found after arrival in the UK. If you cannot pay fees promptly, you may have to leave the University. (Remember, the University must report all students who are not attending.) Further details are available on our web pages: www.sheffield.ac.uk/welcome/money
The University of Sheffield requires you to confirm the following information online. We will email you to tell you when you can do this, by completing the online Financial Declaration: • How your academic fees will be paid • That you have funds to cover living expenses for yourself and any dependants for the full duration of your course. You must confirm this to us (and non-EEA students must also confirm this for visa officers) before you come to the University. If you are sponsored by an external agency (e.g. an Embassy) you must provide a letter, from your sponsor, to the University. This can be scanned and uploaded and you will be advised, by email, when and how to do this. If you plan to apply to an organisation for sponsorship or assistance in paying your fees, you must do so in good time before you come to the UK (or apply for a visa). Do not make arrangements to come to the University or apply for a visa until you are sure that you have funds of your own, or confirmed sponsorship to pay your fees and living costs, on time, for the full duration of your course.
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Financial assistance The University welcomes international students, and we only have a limited number of University scholarships and bursaries available to students. We are unable to offer financial help (including fee reductions) to any student except those who receive written confirmation of the award of a University scholarship or bursary prior to arrival in the UK. If you have been offered such a scholarship or bursary, you can confirm this when you complete the online Financial Declaration. Further information on these scholarships is available here: www.sheffield.ac.uk/international/money/ scholarships EU students If you intend to apply to a bank for a Career Development Loan, you must have a decision on the application before you attend Registration. If you have no decision when you attend Registration, you must pay your fee as a self-funded student. A partial refund will be made if you obtain a loan later.
Tuition fees Home or Overseas? Home and Overseas fees are charged at a different rate by all British universities. Your fee status depends largely on: • Where you have lived in the three years immediately before the start of your course of study (regardless of your nationality) AND your immigration status – if you need a visa, you do not qualify for home fees. The rules on fee status are complex for certain categories of students. For more details see: www.sheffield.ac.uk/ssid/fees/status or www.ukcisa.org.uk
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Not certain about fee status? Contact Admissions for advice before coming to Sheffield. A ruling from another university will not be considered by the University of Sheffield. When must fees be paid? No less than 25% of your fee must be paid in advance or at the start of each year of study. Discounts are available for payment in full for some students. Detailed information about fees and the available payment plans can be found here: www.sheffield.ac.uk/registration/tuitionfees What are the fees in 2014-2015? Fees are in your CAS information and can be found here: www.sheffield.ac.uk/ssid/fees All fees are quoted in pounds sterling. For students on courses of more than one year, tuition fees are payable each year and increase each year: an annual increase of between 5% and 8% should be expected and budgeted for. If in any doubt about the amount of the fee to be paid, Email: studentfees@sheffield.ac.uk
Your health University Health Service The University Health Service is a National Health Service (NHS) General Practice focused on student health. The University strongly recommends that you register with the University Health Service. To do this you need to register online and have a registration interview when you arrive.
Immunisations before you come All universities in the UK require students to be immunised before coming to the UK. You must be immunised against: • Tuberculosis – students from outside Europe, North America, Australia or New Zealand should be immunised against Tuberculosis, see page 14. • Tetanus and Polio • Students aged 24 and under – Meningitis C and MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) • Students coming to study Medicine, Dentistry, Nursing and Speech Science – Hepatitis B immunisation in their home country, at least three months BEFORE coming to the UK. Antigen levels will be measured for Hepatitis B, MMR (measles, mumps (parotitis) & rubella) before you commence your course, by the Sheffield Occupational Health Unit. If you have a health record with details of your immunisations, bring this to your University Health Service interview.
Health insurance Medical insurance is needed for travel outside the UK. Students coming for courses of six months or more are currently eligible for treatment under the NHS. Medical insurance is not necessary. If you will be
University Health Service
here for less than six months, you may not be entitled to free NHS treatment so arrange medical insurance before you arrive, see: www.sheffield.ac.uk/health
Families Your dependants are currently eligible to the same health care you receive. If you are planning to register your dependants with the NHS please check our website: www.sheffield.ac.uk/health Please bring all your children’s health and immunisation records. Visit the following web sites about health care in the UK and details of local NHS services: www.sheffield.ac.uk/health www.newbornphysical.screening.nhs.uk There may be changes to the entitlements of international students to NHS services. Check our webpages for the most up to date information. www.sheffield.ac.uk/ssid/international/ living/health 19
If you have a disability The University of Sheffield welcomes disabled students and is committed to effectively meeting any additional academic support requirements they may have. Further information on the types of support available to disabled students is provided in the University publication Information for Disabled and Dyslexic Students, which can be downloaded here www.sheffield.ac.uk/disability The Disability and Dyslexia Support Service (DDSS) is responsible for coordinating and overseeing the support of students with disabilities. When necessary, the service liaises with academic departments and other University support services (the University Counselling Service, for example) on behalf of individual students. For the purposes of the service, the term ‘disability’ refers to any impairment that has lasted or is likely to last for more than 12 months and which has (or is likely to have) a significant and sustained impact upon an individual’s ability to access and perform upon an academic course. Any student with an impairment which falls within this definition is eligible for support, and individuals with a wide variety of respective disabilities – from Specific Learning Difficulties and sensory impairments to medical conditions and mental health difficulties – can access the service. If you have a disability please contact both the DDSS and your academic department well in advance of your arrival at the University. Planning can be undertaken to ensure that you are given appropriate advice regarding the support, equipment and facilities available to you here.
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Jessop West
Funding The DDSS has funding available to help meet the cost of any academic support which international and EU students require as a result of their disabilities. There is no funding for any costs relating to personal care or recreational support which a disabled student requires as a result of his/her impairment. Information for Disabled and Dyslexic Students is available at: www.sheffield.ac.uk/disability and in print on request. Tel: +44 (0)114 222 1303 Fax: +44 (0)114 222 1373 Email: disability.Info@sheffield.ac.uk
Students with children of school age Under UK law children must be in fulltime education from the beginning of the school term following their 5th birthday. Children are allowed to start school in the first class, which is called “Reception”, in the September after their 4th birthday. Parents may also defer the admission of 5-year-old children into Reception until the January or April of the school year, depending on their date of birth. Applications for school places can be made online, through the Sheffield City Council web link below, or in person at Howden House in Sheffield city centre. It is important to be aware that the academic year for schools, and school holidays, do not correspond exactly with
the dates of the University’s semesters and vacations. The school year runs from early September to late July and there are one-week breaks in the middle of the three terms as well as longer holidays at Christmas and Easter. You can find information about the dates of school holidays and how to apply for a school place from Sheffield City Council: www.sheffield.gov.uk/education In the UK, parents do not have the automatic right to take their children out of school during term time. For more information on the UK law with regard to the education of children and school attendance, see: www.gov.uk/school-attendance-absence/ overview www.sheffield.ac.uk/ssid/international/ living/parents
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Arriving in Sheffield September arrivals New students must be in Sheffield by Sunday 21 September 2014 at the latest. We recommend that you catch a connecting flight to Manchester International Airport as it is easier to get to Sheffield. Before you book flights, consider that although London is just over 2 hours by train, the airports are not in the centre of London and it can take time to travel across the city. The journey from London to Sheffield can cost up to £100 by train. (If your programme of study starts after the main arrival period [October 2014–August 2015], see page 27).
Meet and Greet Scheme at Manchester International Airport Sunday 14 – Sunday 21 September 2014 What is it? Our Meet and Greet service is a private bus service from Manchester International Airport to the University campus. You must pre-book and pre-pay for this service. If you do not book in advance, we cannot guarantee there will be a seat for you on the bus. The service is designed to welcome and help international students who are new to the UK and to ease your journey from the airport to Sheffield. Manchester International Airport is well connected with rail services to Sheffield and the cost of the journey is likely to be less than our Meet and Greet service. You can choose to travel to Sheffield independently if you wish. However, we offer a convenient service and you will be travelling with other students and our friendly assistants.
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Students’ Union
Sheffield assistants Meet and Greet assistants will be in airport arrivals halls at times booked by applicants from 14–21 September inclusive. Please note that delays in flight arrival times may result in a wait of approximately 2–3 hours for the next bus. They will be holding or standing next to blue University of Sheffield posters and wearing navy blue T-shirts or sweat shirts with University of Sheffield printed on them. Buses operate between 8.00am and 6.00pm only. For arrivals outside these dates and times see Independent travel from airports to Sheffield on page 24.
If no students have booked, no buses will run. The Meet and Greet Service does not arrange accommodation for you. You should make arrangements for your accommodation in Sheffield prior to arriving. For further details see www.sheffield.ac.uk/ssid/international/ before/meet-greet
Cost Your contribution to this service at Manchester International Airport is a pre-paid cost of £20 for advance bookings and £25 for any others. For bookings which are not pre-paid we will tell you about the payment procedure on arrival at Manchester.
We will also have assistants at Sheffield train station to help you between 9.00am and 5.00pm if you are arriving in Sheffield by train. They will be able to direct you to taxi, trams or buses for your journey to your accommodation. There is no charge for this but please book onto the Meet and Greet Service, selecting the train option so we know when to expect you.
The University Meet and Greet service provides transport from the airport to campus with assistants to help and accompany you. The cost of a National Express coach from Manchester Airport to Sheffield would be £10.30, the train up to £26 (single) and a taxi £70–£75 (prices correct at time of print).
Booking Online booking can be made until Tuesday 26 August 2014. Your email confirmation of the booking is the confirmation of your place. Bookings cannot be made after this date and late applications will not be processed. No Meet and Greet email confirmation? Students at the airport (during the main arrival period) without a Meet and Greet online booking email might possibly find a representative there. Assistants are not there all the time (if no arrivals are expected at that time, there may be no representative there). If you have not pre-booked we cannot guarantee to be able to provide transport but will try to do so if possible. If no seat is available on the bus you will be guided to a train or taxi. You will need funds for this. Any onward travel – i.e. from Accommodation and Commercial Services/ Students’ Union will be by taxi, payable by the student – about £5–£7 in most cases.
What do I need to do? • Accept a place at the University of Sheffield. • Make travel arrangements. Bookings for the Meet and Greet service can be made from mid-June 2014. Complete the pre-payment form on the following web page: onlineshop.shef.ac.uk Enter Meet in the search box and click the read more link before 26 August 2014. An email will automatically be sent to you via the online booking system. Luggage All luggage must be clearly labelled with your name and Sheffield address written in European alphabet. Any lost luggage should be reported immediately to the airline on arrival. If you send luggage unaccompanied or as freight, you will be responsible for collecting this at another time. We do not provide a portering service. You must be able to carry/move your own luggage within the airport, onto the bus and into your accommodation. Please do not bring more than you are able to carry yourself.
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Help in the airport If you are at the airport, have a Meet and Greet online booking email confirmation but cannot see the University of Sheffield assistants, go to the nearest airport information desk. Ask the information desk staff to “page” or call University of Sheffield staff in both terminals. If you’ve arrived in a different terminal than you expected or booked, don’t worry. Stay in the terminal where you are and report to the Information Desk. Our assistants will find you. Delayed or missed flights If you are booked on the Meet and Greet scheme but cannot arrive at the time/ date entered on your Meet and Greet online booking email confirmation please telephone to let us know. If you don’t, we can’t be there to meet you. Do not rely on email for this; it may not be read before your arrival. You need to speak to a member of staff to make such changes Tel: +44 (0)114 222 1296. Cancellations Cancellations must be received by email or fax to Student Support and Guidance, Student Service Department. Email: meet-greet@sheffield.ac.uk Fax: +44 (0) 114 222 1304, before 26 August 2014. If you do not cancel your booking by 26 August 2014 you will not receive a refund. Problems relating to arrival – 14–21 September Call Student Services Tel: +44 (0)114 222 1296 from outside UK or; 0114 222 1296 from within UK but outside Sheffield. Have a pen ready, as you may be given a second number to call. This number will be staffed from 7.00am – midnight, British Summer Time. All other queries about the Meet and Greet Scheme should be made to Student Services: Email: meet-greet@sheffield.ac.uk Tel: +44 (0)114 222 1269 24
Independent travel from airports to Sheffield Details about travel to Sheffield at other times and from other airports will be sent in Essential Guide To University Life, see: www.sheffield.ac.uk/newstudents/ before-you-arrive/travel/airport
Orientation Week for new international students Monday 15 – Saturday 20 September 2014 We highly recommend you to join this programme. It gives you a chance to find your way around before the crowds arrive. There is a lot to find out about on arrival; the University and the services provided, the city of Sheffield and life in Britain. We know that students who participate in our Orientation Week find it easier to settle into life in Sheffield, make more friends and are less likely to be homesick during the first few weeks. For further details see: www.sheffield.ac.uk/ssid/international/ before/orientation Orientation Week helps with early adjustment and facilitates speedy academic orientation. Orientation Week facilitates: • Finding your way around the campus. • Finding your way into and around the City Centre on public transport – and back again! • Talks on UK culture, homesickness and culture shock. • Meeting key members of staff. • A range of social activities, including trips to the cinema, night clubs, walks, games etc. • Meeting people with whom you can go to Intro Week activities. At the end of Orientation Week, there will be a Welcome Reception where you will have the opportunity to meet key University staff and to celebrate your
arrival at the University of Sheffield. Dress code will be smart and we particularly enjoy seeing our students in national dress. When? Orientation Week runs between Monday 15 September to Saturday 20 September. It is not compulsory but we do highly recommend that you attend for at least some of the programme. Once the full programme is available it will be published on: www.sheffield.ac.uk/ssid/international/ before/orientation You can choose to attend as many of the events and activities as you wish. Where? If you require University accommodation for Orientation Week further details about how to book will be available on our web pages from July 2014. (Participants only – there are no rooms for friends and relations.) If you wish, you can arrange your own accommodation in local hotels or in private sector housing. You will move out of University temporary accommodation into your permanent accommodation on the morning of Friday 19 September.
University accommodation for the programme will be flats with kitchen and en-suite facilities. You will have your own room and the flats will be mixed sex. Do I have to pay any extra? Lunch, additional refreshments and any minor optional expenses are paid for by participants during the orientation programme. Some evening events will have small additional costs. Booking Applications can be made from mid-June 2014. Complete your application through the University’s online shop: onlineshop.shef.ac.uk Please enter Orientation Week 2014 in the search box and click the ‘Read More’ link as this contains detailed information about the programme and your booking. The closing date for applications is Sunday 31 August 2014. When the University receives your completed online booking, you will receive an email confirmation. Please book onto the programme even if you are arranging your own accommodation as this will help us with planning. There will be options on the online shop to book with or without accommodation. 25
If you make a booking for accommodation and find at a later date that you cannot attend, you must cancel your place in writing (see below). This will enable us to offer your room to someone else. Acknowledgement of all applications will be sent. If no acknowledgement is received, contact the office again. Email: orientation@sheffield.ac.uk Tel: +44 (0)114 222 1269 or Fax: +44 (0)114 222 1304 Cancellations Cancellations must be received by email or fax to Student Support and Guidance, Student Services Department, Email: orientation@sheffield.ac.uk Fax: +44 (0)114 222 1304, before 9 September 2014. You will then be provided with a cancellation number to enable you to receive a refund for the accommodation. If you do not cancel your booking by 9 September 2014 you will not receive a refund. Can parents/relatives attend? We are unable to provide accommodation for family and friends. A list of local hotels and guest houses is available from Accommodation and Commercial Services. Please refer to web pages: www.sheffield.ac.uk/accommodation/ temporary_accommodation Contacting home Telephone home on arrival to let them know you have arrived safely. Unfortunately you cannot receive calls on the University accommodation main telephone.
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What to bring Since accommodation is only temporary for this programme it is advisable not to unpack main/large pieces of luggage. Try to bring a smaller bag with the items necessary for the period of Orientation Week. If this is not possible, pack such items on top of the suitcase so that they are easily accessible without unpacking everything. Here are a few ideas of what to bring: • Comfortable shoes for walking. • A warm jacket/coat. • Slippers or house shoes. • Casual clothes for daytime. The weather could be very cool or warm. Bring clothes that will be comfortable for either. • Smart clothes for the formal dinner and other evening entertainment. (Traditional or regional dress would be very welcome and appropriate.) • An umbrella – just in case! • Night clothes. • A towel. • Wash kit, toiletries, cosmetics etc. • Electrical adapter for any electric items. • This booklet, and the other Essential Guides. • Pens and pencils etc. What if I plan to arrive early? Contact For queries regarding this programme contact: Student Support and Guidance, Student Services Department: Tel: +44 (0)114 222 1269 Fax: +44 (0)114 222 1304 Email: orientation@sheffield.ac.uk
Students arriving October 2014 – August 2015 Who arrives at these times? Most students start their studies in September/October. Some students can start at other times of the year. Joining a taught course (undergraduate, diploma or taught Masters) late is usually very difficult or impossible. Please contact the academic department for advice. Who to inform? If you will arrive after the start of the Autumn semester or at other times of the year you must inform the following of your planned arrival date: • Admissions Service. • Academic Department. • Accommodation and Commercial Services (where University accommodation is booked)
Spring semester orientation We encourage students entering the University at the beginning of semester 2 (Spring semester) to attend the mid-year orientation programme, 5 February – 7 February 2015. The programme is nonresidential and is open to any student who wishes to attend and can find and pay for accommodation for these dates. Accommodation may be in private guest houses/small hotels for at least the first two days. It is possible that University accommodation might be available to students who are attending. Applicants will be notified of availability and cost nearer the time. Participants are responsible for the cost of their own accommodation. Do not arrive at term-time accommodation prior to 9 February unless an early booking has been confirmed. For further details Email: orientation@sheffield.ac.uk Meet and Greet There is no Meet and Greet programme in the Spring semester. Follow the instructions which will be sent in ‘Essential Guide To University Life’. Insurance for possessions is strongly recommended for your journey and your first few days in Sheffield.
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Glossary ? Definition of terms used Entry Clearance, Visa, Residence Permit or Leave to Enter. The type of visa issued by an entry clearance officer in an embassy, consulate or high commission outside the UK. This is permission to enter and stay in the UK. Stamps The immigration officer at the port of entry will put a date stamp in the passport to show you entered the country. CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) This is the number issued by the University to say that you meet our requirements. You must check this information carefully and make sure that: • Everything is correct • Your name is exactly the same as on your passport • Your qualifications are exactly as listed If there are any errors, you might not get a visa. ATAS (Academic Technology Approval Scheme) This is a Government scheme designed to ensure that people applying for postgraduate study in certain sensitive subjects do not acquire knowledge that could be used in weapons of mass destruction programmes. You must find out if you need an ATAS certificate before applying for a student visa or extension. Dependant Dependants are children under 18 years of age, or your husband, wife, civil partner, or unmarried or same-sex partner. Tier 4 This is the part of the UK points-based immigration system that relates to migrants wishing to study in the UK. 28
Sheffield Winter Garden
Dates of future academic sessions 2014– 2015 Autumn Semester 22–27 September 2014: Intro Week 29 September 2014 – 20 December 2014 19 January 2015 – 7 February 2015 2014–2015 Spring Semester 5–7 February 2015: Semester 2 Orientation 9 February 2015 – 21 March 2015 13 April 2015 – 13 June 2015 2015-2016 Autumn Semester 21-26 September 2015: Intro Week 28 September 2015 – 19 December 2015 18 January 2016 – 6 February 2016 2015-2016 Spring Semester 4-6 February 2016: Semester 2 Orientation 8 February 2016 – 19 March 2016 11 April 2016 – 11 June 2016
Terms and Conditions of Offers Full details can be found on the University’s web pages. For undergraduate students: www.sheffield.ac.uk/undergraduate/ policies/terms For postgraduate students: www.sheffield.ac.uk/postgraduate/info/terms 29
Contact details If you need further information on any of the points covered in this publication please email, telephone or fax the appropriate department. In any correspondence, please state your UCAS or Graduate Application Number (or name of special programme), your full name and the course and/or department to which you have applied. Accommodation and Commercial Services Tel: +44 (0)114 222 4488 Email: accommodationoffice@sheffield.ac.uk www.sheffield.ac.uk/accommodation Admissions Service – Applicant Information Desk Tel: +44 (0)114 222 8030 Email: shefapply@sheffield.ac.uk www.sheffield.ac.uk/aid International Student Support/Student Immigration Advice/ Student Support and Guidance Tel: +44 (0)114 222 1269 /1267 Fax: +44 (0)114 222 1304 Email: international.students@sheffield.ac.uk www.sheffield.ac.uk/ssid/international Immigration Advice (family visits and working after studies), Student Advice Centre, Students’ Union Tel: +44 (0)114 222 8660 Fax: +44 (0)114 222 8616 Email: advice@sheffield.ac.uk www.sheffield.ac.uk/union/student-advice-centre CAS Enquiries Email: pbsapply@sheffield.ac.uk www.sheffield.ac.uk/international/welcome/cas-application Other information Student Services Information Desk (known as SSiD): www.sheffield.ac.uk/ssid Find answers to the most commonly asked questions at: ask.sheffield.ac.uk Main switchboard telephone: +44 (0)114 222 2000 (9am – 6pm UK time)
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What happens next? This is one of four Essential Guides we send to you before you start your course at Sheffield:
Living In You Before g InLeave SheffieHome ffieldrYou Living Leave Essential Guides 2014.
Living In Sheffield.
All you need to know about our city and accommodation.
Essential Guides 2014.
Before You Leave Home.
All you need to know including immigration, health and money.
Make sure the email address that you provide is one you check regularly, so we have a way of contacting you.
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stration versity Life Registrati University tion Regis Life Unive Essential Guides 2014.
Essential Guides 2014.
Living Registration. All you need to know to register In Sheffield. in September and October.
University Living In Sheffield. Life.
All you need to know about our city and accommodation.
All you need to know about our city and getting arriving accommodation. started.
Each guide gives you specific information you need to know before you start your studies. The Essential Guide to Registration and the Essential Guide to University Life will be sent from July, when you have accepted and met any outstanding conditions of your offer.
Get connected www.sheffield.ac.uk/contact/social-media
Useful websites www.sheffield.ac.uk/accommodation www.sheffield.ac.uk/union www.sheffield.ac.uk/ssid/international 31
Befor Leave You L This publication is available in different formats. To request an alternative format telephone +44 (0)114 222 1303
Copyright Š The University of Sheffield 2014 0332Mktg All paper used in this publication is from renewable and sustainable forests. 1 Information correct at time of print.