International Pre-sessional Guide Sep 2013

International Student Support Office – Luton campus F100, First floor Learning Resources Centre University of Bedfordshire Park Square Luton Bedfordshire LU1 3JU Visa and Immigration Advisory Team Tel: +44 (0) 1582 489129 Tel: +44 (0 1582 743535 Tel: +44 (0) 1582 743421 Email: visaadvice@beds.ac.uk

International Student Support Team Tel: +44 (0 1582 743498 Tel: +44 (0) 1582 743145 Email: intstudent.experience@beds.ac.uk The Language Centre Room J302 Vicarage Street Luton LU1 3JU Tel: +44 (0)1582489032 Email: languagecentre@beds.ac.uk

International Pre-Sessional Guide July 2013

www.beds.ac.uk/international

Contents

2

3 4 5 6 7 8 10 11 11 12 14

Welcome to the University of Bedfordshire

3

May I take this opportunity to offer you a warm welcome to the University of Bedfordshire.

We are one of the most modern universities in the United Kingdom and we have an enviable reputation for attracting students from all over the world to come and live and study with us. With more than 4,000 overseas students from more than 100 different countries, we are proud to be a truly diverse international institution.

Welcome to the University Pre-departure checklist Your visa Money and living costs Travel insurance Accommodation Travelling to the UK Travelling to Luton

We understand that it is not always easy to find your way around in a new environment, and living and studying away from home in a foreign culture can be as challenging as it is rewarding. There’s no need to worry though, as we have all the support and advice you will need to ensure you settle in quickly and really enjoy your time in Bedfordshire.

Travelling to Bedford Orientation and registration Luton campus map

We are also keen for you to feel comfortable, as well as stimulated, in your new surroundings, and this information booklet has been designed to help you prepare for arrival in the UK and make the most of your university life.

Welcome to Bedfordshire – I am confident that you will have an enjoyable time here.

Professor Ashraf Jawaid Deputy Vice Chancellor – OBE

If your question is about…

Contact

Telephone or email

Admissions or visas

The specialist admissions team for your area

www.beds.ac.uk/internationalcontact

Direct debits or advance payments

Finance

+44 (0)1582 743807/51/52 finance@beds.ac.uk

Accommodation at the Luton campus

Accommodation Office

+44 (0)1582 743921 info@studentvillagebeds.com

Student support

International Student Support team

+44 (0)1582 743498

www.beds.ac.uk/international

www.beds.ac.uk/international

Contents

2

3 4 5 6 7 8 10 11 11 12 14

Welcome to the University of Bedfordshire

3

May I take this opportunity to offer you a warm welcome to the University of Bedfordshire.

We are one of the most modern universities in the United Kingdom and we have an enviable reputation for attracting students from all over the world to come and live and study with us. With more than 4,000 overseas students from more than 100 different countries, we are proud to be a truly diverse international institution.

Welcome to the University Pre-departure checklist Your visa Money and living costs Travel insurance Accommodation Travelling to the UK Travelling to Luton

We understand that it is not always easy to find your way around in a new environment, and living and studying away from home in a foreign culture can be as challenging as it is rewarding. There’s no need to worry though, as we have all the support and advice you will need to ensure you settle in quickly and really enjoy your time in Bedfordshire.

Travelling to Bedford Orientation and registration Luton campus map

We are also keen for you to feel comfortable, as well as stimulated, in your new surroundings, and this information booklet has been designed to help you prepare for arrival in the UK and make the most of your university life.

Welcome to Bedfordshire – I am confident that you will have an enjoyable time here.

Professor Ashraf Jawaid Deputy Vice Chancellor – OBE

If your question is about…

Contact

Telephone or email

Admissions or visas

The specialist admissions team for your area

www.beds.ac.uk/internationalcontact

Direct debits or advance payments

Finance

+44 (0)1582 743807/51/52 finance@beds.ac.uk

Accommodation at the Luton campus

Accommodation Office

+44 (0)1582 743921 info@studentvillagebeds.com

Student support

International Student Support team

+44 (0)1582 743498

www.beds.ac.uk/international

www.beds.ac.uk/international

Before you leave home don’t forget…

4

■

Print out and keep our handy pre-departure checklist

■ ■ ■ ■ ■

Make sure you read this guide, as well any communication you may receive from your faculty, very carefully and contact us if you have any questions If you have applied for University accommodation, make sure you have had your place confirmed and remember to bring your contract with you* Check that you have a valid, in-date passport Apply for your student visa for the period of your stay in the UK Take a photocopy of your passport (the personal details page and the visa page)*

■ ■ ■ ■ ■

Book flights, ensure you have received your travel tickets in plenty of time and make sure your family and friends know the flight details so that they can check you have arrived safely

■ ■

Bring proof of your home address and documents to show you have sufficient funds to support you throughout your study*

■ ■ ■ ■ ■

Carry a copy of your CAS letter when you travel*

Your visa Your visa

Guide to obtaining entry clearance

As an international student you will need to obtain permission from the British Embassy or High Commission in your country before you travel to the UK. This process is known as obtaining ‘entry clearance’. We advise you to apply to the British Embassy/High Commission three months prior to the start of your studies. Please note that you must not apply for your visa nor use your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) number more than three months in advance of your studies.

Your visa will be granted for up to one month before your studies begin.

Step 1 Complete the application form VAF9 – PBS Migrant and

If you have any questions about the kind of visa you need and how to apply for it, please contact your local embassy or the University of Bedfordshire’s agent in your country. For more information, check out the UK Border Agency website: www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/visas-immigration/studying/ adult-students/apply-outside-uk/

which you should have received with your CAS letter (sent by email).

The points-based system You will need to obtain 40 points to qualify for a student visa.

• 30 points = providing a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) number to the UKBA which contains details of your studies with us. We will provide you with a CAS letter, sent by email, containing this number

Check whether you need a tuberculosis certificate (see page 5, step 4) and carry any vaccination certificates with you* Ensure you have originals and copies of your birth certificate, your marriage certificate (and an authorised translation if it is not in English)*

Carry your travel insurance documents with you* Make sure you have at least one month’s supply of any medication you are taking and a letter (in English) from your doctor explaining what they are

PBS Appendix 8 (General) Student Download it from: www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/sitecontent/applicationforms/v isas/vaf9.pdf www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/sitecontent/applicationforms/v isas/vaf9-app81.pdf

Step 2 Make sure you have the CAS number for your course,

If you have a conditional offer letter, you will need to meet the conditions before we can send you a CAS letter, and so you will have to wait to apply for entry clearance.

Step 3 Provide financial statements to show you have enough money to cover tuition fees and living costs. The statement will need to be for a period of 28 days, and show that the amount needed has been in the account for all of those 28 days. The statement cannot be more than one month old.

Please see page 6 for more information about the minimum amount of money you will need for tuition fees and living costs.

• 10 points = providing evidence of your finances that show you can cover maintenance costs

Step 4 You may need to provide a Health Certificate with your

Visa tips

Step 5 You will also need to submit any other documents you

Make a list of the contents of your luggage (in case you need to make an insurance claim)* Weigh your baggage to avoid any excess baggage costs

5

• Check the conditions and length of your visa to make sure they are correct

application; check the UK visas website to see if your country is on the screening list: www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/policyandlaw/guidance/ecg/med/

used as evidence to get the CAS letter from the University of Bedfordshire.

• Check that your visa does not say ‘work prohibited’

Step 6 If you are coming to study a Master’s by Research

• If you think there is a mistake on your visa stamp, contact the British Embassy in your country

degree, you may need to provide an ATAS clearance certificate (if this is required it will be stated on your CAS letter).

• If your visa application is refused, you can apply for an Administrative Review within 28 days of the refusal notice and your application will be looked at by another Entry Clearance Officer

Step 7 Submit all of the above to the British Embassy/High Commission. Make sure you include your passport, a recent passport sized photograph and the fee of £255.

Bring a short medical history, if possible, as this will help when you register with a doctor in the UK Bring your credit card, if you have one, as this will help with credit checks in the UK Ensure you have your money in the form of traveller’s cheques and that you have enough for your first few days and weeks here* Bring your driving licence if you plan to drive during your stay in the UK

* It is best to carry these items in your hand luggage

www.beds.ac.uk/international

www.beds.ac.uk/international

Before you leave home don’t forget…

4

■

Print out and keep our handy pre-departure checklist

■ ■ ■ ■ ■

Make sure you read this guide, as well any communication you may receive from your faculty, very carefully and contact us if you have any questions If you have applied for University accommodation, make sure you have had your place confirmed and remember to bring your contract with you* Check that you have a valid, in-date passport Apply for your student visa for the period of your stay in the UK Take a photocopy of your passport (the personal details page and the visa page)*

■ ■ ■ ■ ■

Book flights, ensure you have received your travel tickets in plenty of time and make sure your family and friends know the flight details so that they can check you have arrived safely

■ ■

Bring proof of your home address and documents to show you have sufficient funds to support you throughout your study*

■ ■ ■ ■ ■

Carry a copy of your CAS letter when you travel*

Your visa Your visa

Guide to obtaining entry clearance

As an international student you will need to obtain permission from the British Embassy or High Commission in your country before you travel to the UK. This process is known as obtaining ‘entry clearance’. We advise you to apply to the British Embassy/High Commission three months prior to the start of your studies. Please note that you must not apply for your visa nor use your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) number more than three months in advance of your studies.

Your visa will be granted for up to one month before your studies begin.

Step 1 Complete the application form VAF9 – PBS Migrant and

If you have any questions about the kind of visa you need and how to apply for it, please contact your local embassy or the University of Bedfordshire’s agent in your country. For more information, check out the UK Border Agency website: www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/visas-immigration/studying/ adult-students/apply-outside-uk/

which you should have received with your CAS letter (sent by email).

The points-based system You will need to obtain 40 points to qualify for a student visa.

• 30 points = providing a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) number to the UKBA which contains details of your studies with us. We will provide you with a CAS letter, sent by email, containing this number

Check whether you need a tuberculosis certificate (see page 5, step 4) and carry any vaccination certificates with you* Ensure you have originals and copies of your birth certificate, your marriage certificate (and an authorised translation if it is not in English)*

Carry your travel insurance documents with you* Make sure you have at least one month’s supply of any medication you are taking and a letter (in English) from your doctor explaining what they are

PBS Appendix 8 (General) Student Download it from: www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/sitecontent/applicationforms/v isas/vaf9.pdf www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/sitecontent/applicationforms/v isas/vaf9-app81.pdf

Step 2 Make sure you have the CAS number for your course,

If you have a conditional offer letter, you will need to meet the conditions before we can send you a CAS letter, and so you will have to wait to apply for entry clearance.

Step 3 Provide financial statements to show you have enough money to cover tuition fees and living costs. The statement will need to be for a period of 28 days, and show that the amount needed has been in the account for all of those 28 days. The statement cannot be more than one month old.

Please see page 6 for more information about the minimum amount of money you will need for tuition fees and living costs.

• 10 points = providing evidence of your finances that show you can cover maintenance costs

Step 4 You may need to provide a Health Certificate with your

Visa tips

Step 5 You will also need to submit any other documents you

Make a list of the contents of your luggage (in case you need to make an insurance claim)* Weigh your baggage to avoid any excess baggage costs

5

• Check the conditions and length of your visa to make sure they are correct

application; check the UK visas website to see if your country is on the screening list: www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/policyandlaw/guidance/ecg/med/

used as evidence to get the CAS letter from the University of Bedfordshire.

• Check that your visa does not say ‘work prohibited’

Step 6 If you are coming to study a Master’s by Research

• If you think there is a mistake on your visa stamp, contact the British Embassy in your country

degree, you may need to provide an ATAS clearance certificate (if this is required it will be stated on your CAS letter).

• If your visa application is refused, you can apply for an Administrative Review within 28 days of the refusal notice and your application will be looked at by another Entry Clearance Officer

Step 7 Submit all of the above to the British Embassy/High Commission. Make sure you include your passport, a recent passport sized photograph and the fee of £255.

Bring a short medical history, if possible, as this will help when you register with a doctor in the UK Bring your credit card, if you have one, as this will help with credit checks in the UK Ensure you have your money in the form of traveller’s cheques and that you have enough for your first few days and weeks here* Bring your driving licence if you plan to drive during your stay in the UK

* It is best to carry these items in your hand luggage

www.beds.ac.uk/international

www.beds.ac.uk/international

6

Money and living costs

Paying your tuition fees Before you travel to the UK it is vital to ensure that you have enough money to cover living expenses and fees. You should not expect that a part-time job will cover these costs.

Your offer letter will outline the total amount you need to pay in tuition fees, and all students are required to pay a minimum of 65% of their tuition fees before or at registration.

It may be useful to know that if you pay the total amount before or at registration, you may be eligible to receive a substantial fee discount scholarship of between £600 and £1,500.

To find out more about how to pay your fees, visit our website: www.beds.ac.uk/internationalfees You can pay your fees in cash (in person only), and by bankers draft, debit card, credit card (excluding American Express and Diners Club) or bank transfer. If your fees are to be paid using a parent or guardian’s credit or debit card, you will need the cardholder to sign an authorisation form.

Bank transfers should be sent directly to the University’s bank account: Bank Name

HSBC Bank

Address

63 George Street, LUTON Bedfordshire, LU1 2AP, UK

Sort Code

40-30-32

Account Name

University of Bedfordshire

Account Number

21425374

IBAN Number

GB80MIDL40303221425374

Swift Code

MIDLGB22

For more information or advice, please contact the University’s Finance Office: Tel: +44 (0)1582 743807/51/52 Fax: +44 (0)1582 743330 Email: finance@beds.ac.uk

The first few days...

How much money do I need for living costs?

The currency in Britain is the pound sterling (£) and there are 100 pence (p) in £1.

For visa purposes, you will be required to provide documentary evidence that you have sufficient funding for living costs as follows: • If your course is less than nine months in duration, you must show you have £800 for each month of your course • If you are studying on a course that is nine months or longer, you will need to show evidence that you have funds in your personal bank account to pay your tuition fees. You will also need to show that you have living costs of at least £800 per month for nine months or more, ie a minimum of £7,200.

There is further information about the cost of living in the UK at the British council and educationuk websites: www.ukcisa.org.uk/student/living_costs.php www.educationuk.org/UK/Article/Budget-planning-in-the-UK These figures include accommodation, books, clothing, travel, food and bills, but do not include tuition fees. Luton and Bedford are both relatively low cost towns in comparison to London, despite their close proximity to the capital.

There’s no limit on the amount of money you can bring in to the UK from a non-EU country. However, by European Union law, if you are carrying 10,000 Euros or more (or the equivalent in any other currencies) you will be required to declare the cash to the Customs Officer. It is also wise to check if there are any regulations placed upon the amount of money you can take out of your home country.

Useful links Accommodation: www.beds.ac.uk/accommodation Fees: www.beds.ac.uk/internationalfees Living costs: www.mysupermarket.co.uk Currency converter: www.OANDA.com

www.beds.ac.uk/international

If you are staying in University accommodation, you should apply for a place and pay your rent well in advance of your arrival in the UK. Check out www.beds.ac.uk/accommodation for more information about your options.

If you are not planning on staying in University accommodation, you should bring at least £850 with you to cover your needs in the first couple of days as you secure private accommodation.

It is not advisable to carry large amounts of cash. Please consider using traveller’s cheques or pre-paid cards instead.

Money tips • Check with your bank at home whether your current credit or debit card will allow you to withdraw money from UK cash machines (ATMs) • Calling your home country on a mobile phone can be very expensive, so buy an international phone card from a newsagents instead

7

Travel insurance Before you travel to the UK it is a good idea to take out travel insurance which covers your journey and belongings. You can either do this through your travel agent or an insurance company in your home country. This will give you the peace of mind that, if you have any problems during your journey such as lost or damaged luggage, you can make a claim for compensation and recover some of the costs.

If your luggage does get lost or damaged on the journey, please note that it is vital that you report it at the airport before leaving to come to Bedfordshire.

We would advise you not to bring expensive items, such as valuable jewellery, with you. However, if for some reason you do need to bring items of high value, it is important that you take out extra insurance to cover the cost.

After you arrive in the UK, please feel free to come and speak to one of our dedicated International Student Advisers, who will be able to help you with taking out personal possessions insurance in the UK.

• Use your free University email account to stay in touch with family and friends rather than running up a big phone bill • Take time to look around any potential accommodation and do not sign a contract without having it checked by the Students’ Union Advice Centre, Accommodation Office or Citizens Advice centre beforehand • Consider renting a room from a local family – contact the International Support team for more information on homestay accommodation (see page 8 for more details) • Ensure you choose accommodation close to where the majority of your classes will be held – for example, if your course is taught at Bedford, it will be much more expensive to live in Luton and travel • Buy second-hand text books from other students rather than brand new ones • Cycle or walk to the University – it's free and will help you keep fit, too!

www.beds.ac.uk/international

6

Money and living costs

Paying your tuition fees Before you travel to the UK it is vital to ensure that you have enough money to cover living expenses and fees. You should not expect that a part-time job will cover these costs.

Your offer letter will outline the total amount you need to pay in tuition fees, and all students are required to pay a minimum of 65% of their tuition fees before or at registration.

It may be useful to know that if you pay the total amount before or at registration, you may be eligible to receive a substantial fee discount scholarship of between £600 and £1,500.

To find out more about how to pay your fees, visit our website: www.beds.ac.uk/internationalfees You can pay your fees in cash (in person only), and by bankers draft, debit card, credit card (excluding American Express and Diners Club) or bank transfer. If your fees are to be paid using a parent or guardian’s credit or debit card, you will need the cardholder to sign an authorisation form.

Bank transfers should be sent directly to the University’s bank account: Bank Name

HSBC Bank

Address

63 George Street, LUTON Bedfordshire, LU1 2AP, UK

Sort Code

40-30-32

Account Name

University of Bedfordshire

Account Number

21425374

IBAN Number

GB80MIDL40303221425374

Swift Code

MIDLGB22

For more information or advice, please contact the University’s Finance Office: Tel: +44 (0)1582 743807/51/52 Fax: +44 (0)1582 743330 Email: finance@beds.ac.uk

The first few days...

How much money do I need for living costs?

The currency in Britain is the pound sterling (£) and there are 100 pence (p) in £1.

For visa purposes, you will be required to provide documentary evidence that you have sufficient funding for living costs as follows: • If your course is less than nine months in duration, you must show you have £800 for each month of your course • If you are studying on a course that is nine months or longer, you will need to show evidence that you have funds in your personal bank account to pay your tuition fees. You will also need to show that you have living costs of at least £800 per month for nine months or more, ie a minimum of £7,200.

There is further information about the cost of living in the UK at the British council and educationuk websites: www.ukcisa.org.uk/student/living_costs.php www.educationuk.org/UK/Article/Budget-planning-in-the-UK These figures include accommodation, books, clothing, travel, food and bills, but do not include tuition fees. Luton and Bedford are both relatively low cost towns in comparison to London, despite their close proximity to the capital.

There’s no limit on the amount of money you can bring in to the UK from a non-EU country. However, by European Union law, if you are carrying 10,000 Euros or more (or the equivalent in any other currencies) you will be required to declare the cash to the Customs Officer. It is also wise to check if there are any regulations placed upon the amount of money you can take out of your home country.

Useful links Accommodation: www.beds.ac.uk/accommodation Fees: www.beds.ac.uk/internationalfees Living costs: www.mysupermarket.co.uk Currency converter: www.OANDA.com

www.beds.ac.uk/international

If you are staying in University accommodation, you should apply for a place and pay your rent well in advance of your arrival in the UK. Check out www.beds.ac.uk/accommodation for more information about your options.

If you are not planning on staying in University accommodation, you should bring at least £850 with you to cover your needs in the first couple of days as you secure private accommodation.

It is not advisable to carry large amounts of cash. Please consider using traveller’s cheques or pre-paid cards instead.

Money tips • Check with your bank at home whether your current credit or debit card will allow you to withdraw money from UK cash machines (ATMs) • Calling your home country on a mobile phone can be very expensive, so buy an international phone card from a newsagents instead

7

Travel insurance Before you travel to the UK it is a good idea to take out travel insurance which covers your journey and belongings. You can either do this through your travel agent or an insurance company in your home country. This will give you the peace of mind that, if you have any problems during your journey such as lost or damaged luggage, you can make a claim for compensation and recover some of the costs.

If your luggage does get lost or damaged on the journey, please note that it is vital that you report it at the airport before leaving to come to Bedfordshire.

We would advise you not to bring expensive items, such as valuable jewellery, with you. However, if for some reason you do need to bring items of high value, it is important that you take out extra insurance to cover the cost.

After you arrive in the UK, please feel free to come and speak to one of our dedicated International Student Advisers, who will be able to help you with taking out personal possessions insurance in the UK.

• Use your free University email account to stay in touch with family and friends rather than running up a big phone bill • Take time to look around any potential accommodation and do not sign a contract without having it checked by the Students’ Union Advice Centre, Accommodation Office or Citizens Advice centre beforehand • Consider renting a room from a local family – contact the International Support team for more information on homestay accommodation (see page 8 for more details) • Ensure you choose accommodation close to where the majority of your classes will be held – for example, if your course is taught at Bedford, it will be much more expensive to live in Luton and travel • Buy second-hand text books from other students rather than brand new ones • Cycle or walk to the University – it's free and will help you keep fit, too!

www.beds.ac.uk/international

8

Accommodation

9

Picture below: Luton campus accommodation – Fitzroy Court

Your first few days and weeks in the UK will be much easier and more enjoyable if you have arranged your accommodation well in advance of your arrival at the University of Bedfordshire.

Student Village, University of Bedfordshire

Useful links To apply: Bedford campus accommodation – www.beds.ac.uk/accommodation

A new £40m state-of-the-art accommodation complex opened in September 2011 in Luton. Fitzroy Court has 579 rooms, all with en-suite bathrooms. Both studio apartments and multi-bed flats are available. There will be numerous common areas on the ground floor all with WiFi internet access.

Luton campus acccommodation – www.studentvillagebeds.com

2013 will see stage 2 of the project reach completion, with 279 additional rooms opening at Manor Road. All of this accommodation is within walking distance of the University.

Luton campus – info@studentvillagebeds.com

For more information on University accommodation email: Bedford campus – studentservices.bedford@beds.ac.uk Host families – advice.international@beds.ac.uk

University of Bedfordshire Halls of Residence Living in University Halls can be a great way to truly experience British culture and make lifelong friends from all walks of life.

At the Student Village at the Luton campus, there are a number of Halls to choose from, including the new Fitzroy Court and at the smaller Bedford campus you can pick between the new £20m Liberty Living en-suite complex and the more traditional University Halls. If you wish to stay in University accommodation, you must apply well in advance of your arrival in the UK via our websites. We regret that we are unable to place students who have not applied in advance. To find out more and view details of all the available University accommodation, visit: www.beds.ac.uk/internationalhalls

Luton host families Choosing to stay with a host family will give you a great introduction to life in the UK. There are several good reasons to consider living with a host family. You will be able to perfect your English language skills as you will largely communicate with your family in English. A host family may well help you deal with feelings of homesickness or culture shock, and they will also give you an excellent insight into British customs and traditions. For a list of families or more information about this scheme, please email: advice.international@beds.ac.uk or call: +44 (0)1582 743498.

Private rented accommodation This option offers more flexibility than the previous two, but if you choose to rent in the private sector you will have to wait until you arrive in the UK and then find a place to stay. This means that you will need to be prepared to stay in a hotel or a bed and breakfast (B&B), possibly for a week, until you find a permanent place. Please be aware that this could be expensive and unfortunately the University is unable to provide emergency accommodation, as all of our rooms are usually fully booked by the start of term.

www.beds.ac.uk/international

www.beds.ac.uk/international

8

Accommodation

9

Picture below: Luton campus accommodation – Fitzroy Court

Your first few days and weeks in the UK will be much easier and more enjoyable if you have arranged your accommodation well in advance of your arrival at the University of Bedfordshire.

Student Village, University of Bedfordshire

Useful links To apply: Bedford campus accommodation – www.beds.ac.uk/accommodation

A new £40m state-of-the-art accommodation complex opened in September 2011 in Luton. Fitzroy Court has 579 rooms, all with en-suite bathrooms. Both studio apartments and multi-bed flats are available. There will be numerous common areas on the ground floor all with WiFi internet access.

Luton campus acccommodation – www.studentvillagebeds.com

2013 will see stage 2 of the project reach completion, with 279 additional rooms opening at Manor Road. All of this accommodation is within walking distance of the University.

Luton campus – info@studentvillagebeds.com

For more information on University accommodation email: Bedford campus – studentservices.bedford@beds.ac.uk Host families – advice.international@beds.ac.uk

University of Bedfordshire Halls of Residence Living in University Halls can be a great way to truly experience British culture and make lifelong friends from all walks of life.

At the Student Village at the Luton campus, there are a number of Halls to choose from, including the new Fitzroy Court and at the smaller Bedford campus you can pick between the new £20m Liberty Living en-suite complex and the more traditional University Halls. If you wish to stay in University accommodation, you must apply well in advance of your arrival in the UK via our websites. We regret that we are unable to place students who have not applied in advance. To find out more and view details of all the available University accommodation, visit: www.beds.ac.uk/internationalhalls

Luton host families Choosing to stay with a host family will give you a great introduction to life in the UK. There are several good reasons to consider living with a host family. You will be able to perfect your English language skills as you will largely communicate with your family in English. A host family may well help you deal with feelings of homesickness or culture shock, and they will also give you an excellent insight into British customs and traditions. For a list of families or more information about this scheme, please email: advice.international@beds.ac.uk or call: +44 (0)1582 743498.

Private rented accommodation This option offers more flexibility than the previous two, but if you choose to rent in the private sector you will have to wait until you arrive in the UK and then find a place to stay. This means that you will need to be prepared to stay in a hotel or a bed and breakfast (B&B), possibly for a week, until you find a permanent place. Please be aware that this could be expensive and unfortunately the University is unable to provide emergency accommodation, as all of our rooms are usually fully booked by the start of term.

www.beds.ac.uk/international

www.beds.ac.uk/international

10

Travelling to the UK

11

The journey from your home country

Passport control and going through Customs

Setting off on the journey to your new life in the UK is an exciting, but daunting, step. This guide is designed to help make that journey pass as smoothly as possible!

When you arrive in the UK it is very important that you have all the necessary documents to hand, so that you can pass through passport control without any problems.

You should reserve a flight to a London airport. The main London airports are London Heathrow Airport and London Gatwick Airport.

It will make things much more enjoyable (and affordable) for you if you book your flights well in advance. Please ensure that you are at the airport in plenty of time (usually at least two or three hours before take-off) and that you know when your flight is due to land in London. It is best, where possible, to try and arrive between 9.00am and 5.00pm, as this will ensure you have an easier journey up to Bedfordshire.

It is compulsory to arrive in time for the start of Orientation Week, which is specially designed to help you settle in to life at the University.

What to pack

Please keep the following documents in your hand luggage as you will need to show all or some of them at Immigration: • Passport and a current valid visa • Your unconditional offer letter/Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies from the University of Bedfordshire • A bank statement or similar document (your own or from your sponsor) that demonstrates you are able to cover tuition fees and living expenses • Your TB health certificate and any chest x-rays if these have been required for your visa The Immigration Officer should be convinced that you intend to leave the UK at the end of your studies, so make sure you have a clear idea of your career plans after you leave the UK.

As you may know, the weather in the UK can be quite variable and often changes quickly! Temperatures range from 30 degrees centigrade in the summer months to -5 degrees centigrade in the winter. It would be best to bring different types of clothes in preparation for all weather types and an umbrella is definitely a good idea! You can buy bulky winter clothing locally at reasonable prices, so there is no need to worry about exceeding the luggage allowance with heavy coats and jumpers!

Don’t worry if the Immigration Officer asks you questions about your reasons for coming to the UK or the length of your course.

Just answer clearly and don’t be nervous. It is best to try and arrive during UK office hours (Monday – Friday, 9.00am – 5.00pm) so that if the Immigration Officer wants confirmation of your student status, he or she can contact us easily.

You might also like to bring your national dress, as we invite all our new international students to wear this on occasions such as the Welcome Party early on in the term.

After passport control, you should collect your luggage, and then proceed through Customs. If you are not carrying more than the permitted allowance of tax-free goods, you can pass through the green channel. If you have goods that must be declared to Customs, take the red channel.

If you regularly take any medication, please bring at least one month’s supply with you.

www.beds.ac.uk/international

Travelling to Luton Please make sure you have checked whether your course is based in Luton or based in Bedford, as the campuses are around 20 miles apart and students usually live at the campus their course is taught at, as it saves money and time spent on travelling.

Your pre-sessional may be delivered at the Luton campus even if your degree course will be taught at the Bedford campus. We will advise you in advance on how to book accommodation at different locations.

You can confirm where your course is taught by looking it up on our website, www.beds.ac.uk/courses and checking the ‘Location’ line.

From London Heathrow Airport to Luton • By coach – the National Express coach is the most convenient way of travelling from Heathrow to Luton. It departs from the central bus station between Terminals 1, 2 and 3. You should ask for a one-way, adult ticket to Luton, which should cost around £20 • By train – an underground service is available from Terminals 1 – 3 (Terminals 4 and 5 have their own separate underground station). Take a train on the Picadilly Line to St Pancras International. From there take a First Capital Connect train to Luton, which will cost around £30

From London Gatwick Airport to Luton • By train – take the First Capital Connect train directly to Luton, which will cost up to £30

Travelling to Bedford From London Heathrow Airport to Bedford • By train – an underground service is available from Terminals 1– 3 (Terminals 4 and 5 have their own separate underground station). Take a train on the Picadilly Line to St Pancras International. From there take a First Capital Connect train

Useful links National Express coaches: www.nationalexpress.com National Express coaches disabled persons helpline: +44 (0)871 7818179 National Rail enquiries: www.firstcapitalconnect.co.uk

Going through Customs in the UK

You may be asked to undergo tuberculosis (TB) screening at the airport, which is standard policy. Don’t worry, just co-operate fully with the staff. You may have already taken a test in your home country and have the certificate with you. If this is the case, just show this to the Officer.

www.beds.ac.uk/international

10

Travelling to the UK

11

The journey from your home country

Passport control and going through Customs

Setting off on the journey to your new life in the UK is an exciting, but daunting, step. This guide is designed to help make that journey pass as smoothly as possible!

When you arrive in the UK it is very important that you have all the necessary documents to hand, so that you can pass through passport control without any problems.

You should reserve a flight to a London airport. The main London airports are London Heathrow Airport and London Gatwick Airport.

It will make things much more enjoyable (and affordable) for you if you book your flights well in advance. Please ensure that you are at the airport in plenty of time (usually at least two or three hours before take-off) and that you know when your flight is due to land in London. It is best, where possible, to try and arrive between 9.00am and 5.00pm, as this will ensure you have an easier journey up to Bedfordshire.

It is compulsory to arrive in time for the start of Orientation Week, which is specially designed to help you settle in to life at the University.

What to pack

Please keep the following documents in your hand luggage as you will need to show all or some of them at Immigration: • Passport and a current valid visa • Your unconditional offer letter/Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies from the University of Bedfordshire • A bank statement or similar document (your own or from your sponsor) that demonstrates you are able to cover tuition fees and living expenses • Your TB health certificate and any chest x-rays if these have been required for your visa The Immigration Officer should be convinced that you intend to leave the UK at the end of your studies, so make sure you have a clear idea of your career plans after you leave the UK.

As you may know, the weather in the UK can be quite variable and often changes quickly! Temperatures range from 30 degrees centigrade in the summer months to -5 degrees centigrade in the winter. It would be best to bring different types of clothes in preparation for all weather types and an umbrella is definitely a good idea! You can buy bulky winter clothing locally at reasonable prices, so there is no need to worry about exceeding the luggage allowance with heavy coats and jumpers!

Don’t worry if the Immigration Officer asks you questions about your reasons for coming to the UK or the length of your course.

Just answer clearly and don’t be nervous. It is best to try and arrive during UK office hours (Monday – Friday, 9.00am – 5.00pm) so that if the Immigration Officer wants confirmation of your student status, he or she can contact us easily.

You might also like to bring your national dress, as we invite all our new international students to wear this on occasions such as the Welcome Party early on in the term.

After passport control, you should collect your luggage, and then proceed through Customs. If you are not carrying more than the permitted allowance of tax-free goods, you can pass through the green channel. If you have goods that must be declared to Customs, take the red channel.

If you regularly take any medication, please bring at least one month’s supply with you.

www.beds.ac.uk/international

Travelling to Luton Please make sure you have checked whether your course is based in Luton or based in Bedford, as the campuses are around 20 miles apart and students usually live at the campus their course is taught at, as it saves money and time spent on travelling.

Your pre-sessional may be delivered at the Luton campus even if your degree course will be taught at the Bedford campus. We will advise you in advance on how to book accommodation at different locations.

You can confirm where your course is taught by looking it up on our website, www.beds.ac.uk/courses and checking the ‘Location’ line.

From London Heathrow Airport to Luton • By coach – the National Express coach is the most convenient way of travelling from Heathrow to Luton. It departs from the central bus station between Terminals 1, 2 and 3. You should ask for a one-way, adult ticket to Luton, which should cost around £20 • By train – an underground service is available from Terminals 1 – 3 (Terminals 4 and 5 have their own separate underground station). Take a train on the Picadilly Line to St Pancras International. From there take a First Capital Connect train to Luton, which will cost around £30

From London Gatwick Airport to Luton • By train – take the First Capital Connect train directly to Luton, which will cost up to £30

Travelling to Bedford From London Heathrow Airport to Bedford • By train – an underground service is available from Terminals 1– 3 (Terminals 4 and 5 have their own separate underground station). Take a train on the Picadilly Line to St Pancras International. From there take a First Capital Connect train

Useful links National Express coaches: www.nationalexpress.com National Express coaches disabled persons helpline: +44 (0)871 7818179 National Rail enquiries: www.firstcapitalconnect.co.uk

Going through Customs in the UK

You may be asked to undergo tuberculosis (TB) screening at the airport, which is standard policy. Don’t worry, just co-operate fully with the staff. You may have already taken a test in your home country and have the certificate with you. If this is the case, just show this to the Officer.

www.beds.ac.uk/international

12

Registration and Orientation - Pre-sessional students

IT IS IMPORTANT YOU ARRIVE IN TIME TO START YOUR STUDIES ON DAY ONE. THE START DATE OF YOUR COURSE IS ON YOUR OFFER LETTER.

Registration On day one, you will register and receive your ID card. You will need to bring with you: a) Your original academic and English qualification certificates b) Your current passport and valid visa It is also necessary for you to have paid 65% of the first year’s tuition fees (pre-sessional and degree course) in order to be eligible to register with the University.

13

Orientation The first day is designed to welcome new international students to the University. You will receive an introduction to the University and your course from the Director of the International Office.

You will receive an orientation session where you will learn about practical matters such as visa rules, employment and where to find things.

The Department of Language and Communication will tell you about the academic aspects of the pre-sessional English course and there will also be a test lasting one hour to check your level of English. You will then be placed in a class appropriate to your level. On day two you will receive your course timetable and begin your pre-sessional classes.

You will be expected to arrive at 9am on day one. You will be advised on the location.

www.beds.ac.uk/international

www.beds.ac.uk/international

12

Registration and Orientation - Pre-sessional students

IT IS IMPORTANT YOU ARRIVE IN TIME TO START YOUR STUDIES ON DAY ONE. THE START DATE OF YOUR COURSE IS ON YOUR OFFER LETTER.

Registration On day one, you will register and receive your ID card. You will need to bring with you: a) Your original academic and English qualification certificates b) Your current passport and valid visa It is also necessary for you to have paid 65% of the first year’s tuition fees (pre-sessional and degree course) in order to be eligible to register with the University.

13

Orientation The first day is designed to welcome new international students to the University. You will receive an introduction to the University and your course from the Director of the International Office.

You will receive an orientation session where you will learn about practical matters such as visa rules, employment and where to find things.

The Department of Language and Communication will tell you about the academic aspects of the pre-sessional English course and there will also be a test lasting one hour to check your level of English. You will then be placed in a class appropriate to your level. On day two you will receive your course timetable and begin your pre-sessional classes.

You will be expected to arrive at 9am on day one. You will be advised on the location.

www.beds.ac.uk/international

www.beds.ac.uk/international

14

Luton campus map

15

Campus Centre Recruitment Services, Careers, Restaurant, SID and Students’ Union

S

i

Park Square A and B Block

D

StudentInformationDesk

Park Square C, D and E Blocks

Fairview House Admissions (UK) Finance

Business School H and J Block

Main Reception the Language Centre J Block

Centre d CPD PG an Centre d CPD PG an

Tree House Fitzroy Court Accommodation complex

www.beds.ac.uk/international

Postgraduate and Continuing Development Centre (now open)

Learning Resources Centre (LRC) and International Office

www.beds.ac.uk/international

14

Luton campus map

15

Campus Centre Recruitment Services, Careers, Restaurant, SID and Students’ Union

S

i

Park Square A and B Block

D

StudentInformationDesk

Park Square C, D and E Blocks

Fairview House Admissions (UK) Finance

Business School H and J Block

Main Reception the Language Centre J Block

Centre d CPD PG an Centre d CPD PG an

Tree House Fitzroy Court Accommodation complex

www.beds.ac.uk/international

Postgraduate and Continuing Development Centre (now open)

Learning Resources Centre (LRC) and International Office

www.beds.ac.uk/international

International Student Support Office – Luton campus F100, First floor Learning Resources Centre University of Bedfordshire Park Square Luton Bedfordshire LU1 3JU Visa and Immigration Advisory Team Tel: +44 (0) 1582 489129 Tel: +44 (0 1582 743535 Tel: +44 (0) 1582 743421 Email: visaadvice@beds.ac.uk

International Student Support Team Tel: +44 (0 1582 743498 Tel: +44 (0) 1582 743145 Email: intstudent.experience@beds.ac.uk The Language Centre Room J302 Vicarage Street Luton LU1 3JU Tel: +44 (0)1582489032 Email: languagecentre@beds.ac.uk

International Pre-Sessional Guide July 2013

www.beds.ac.uk/international