International Student Advice Service (ISA)
INTERNATIONAL STUDENT TRAVEL and PREPARATION Handbook
SEPTEMBER 2024
Read this handbook for essential information on applying for your Student visa, pre-arrival events, travelling to the UK as well as top tips to help you prepare to live in the UK. Understand your rights, responsibilities and where you can go for support.
SUBMITTING YOUR STUDENT VISA APPLICATION
Most international students will need to apply for a Student visa to study in the UK, but you can check the UK Visas and Immigration website for further information on the other types of visa categories that may apply to you. You will be required to provide evidence of having a valid visa that permits study as part of your enrolment at UEL.
If you are an EU, EEA national, Swiss citizen or an eligible family member with Settled or Pre-Settled status, you will not need a Student visa to study.
If you require a Student visa, you will need a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) issued by the University before making your Student visa application.
You will receive regular webinar invitations to support with the University’s Pre-CAS assessments and Student visa application process. Please visit the UK Government website for up-to-date information on the Student visa route and our Applying for your Student visa webpages which has detailed information on the documentary requirements for submitting a Student visa application from outside the UK.
Important deadlines!
We recommend you apply for your Student visa as soon as possible to give yourself enough time to prepare to travel to the UK. Our International Admissions Deadlines.
You will be required to keep the university updated with the status of your visa application via your CAS Shield Portal
Once your Student visa application is granted most students will receive a 90-day entry visa vignette in your passport and a UKVI Decision letter which will confirm the designated Post Office in the UK to collect your Biometrics Residence Permit (BRP) card. The BRP card is your visa. Please see ‘Collecting your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) Card’ section for further details and whether this applies to you.
DEPENDANTS
If you are eligible to bring dependants to the UK, here is some information regarding places in London to live with families which may be useful: Top 10 areas for families to live in London - HomeViews
It is worth noting that multi-bedroom properties are currently approximately £1,500+ per calendar month, not including utilities (bills). It is important that you create a monthly budget that you and your family can live off before you start your housing search. Please make sure that you choose a place that is affordable and that allows you to maintain a good, robust quality of life.’
Living in the UK is expensive. If you are planning to bring dependents, we recommend you have more funds that the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) amount for them and you have suitable accommodation and childcare arrangements in place before travelling to the UK.
Schooling for your children
In the UK, attendance at school is compulsory for children between 5-16. Your child can attend government primary and secondary schools in the UK if they are here in the UK as your dependants.
You will not have to pay for this but schools sometime refuse places to children if their stay in the UK is too short or they have no free places. Further guidance on schooling can be found by visiting: UKCISA - international student advice and guidance - Dependants
If your child is under 5 years old, UEL has a nursery please see details and costings: Nursery | University of East London (uel.ac.uk)
Important note:
Very few students are eligible to bring dependants to the UK. Please refer to information on our Applying for a Student dependant visa webpage for more information.
KEY EVENTS BEFORE YOUR ARRIVAL
Virtual Pre-Departure Event
The Pre-Arrival event is an exciting opportunity for you to hear directly from your school as to how to prepare for your studies ahead and everything you need to know before you set foot on campus and start your student journey here at the University of East London.
We expect the Virtual Pre-Departure event to take place online on Thursday 22nd August 2024. You will receive invitations and reminders via email closer to the event.
Please see key dates: International Admission Deadlines | University of East London (uel.ac.uk)
This event will host the following:
– Get Classroom Ready
– Psychology of Effective Studying
– What You Can Expect Your First Month on Campus
– Landing in the UK and UK Immigration
– Student Experience sessions
– Mental Wealth sessions
– A virtual booth that will allow you to speak with different departments one to one
– Travelling to the UK for international students and settling in
– Enrolment session
Online Kickstarter Programme
The UEL International team will host a 3-day online Kickstarter programme for eligible international students a few weeks prior to the start of their course. This is an opportunity for new students to virtually join us and learn about academic study and university life before arriving on campus. The sessions range from academic writing, up-skilling digital competencies, referencing, library services and many more!
The Kickstarter programme will take place Monday 9th - Wednesday 11th September 2024.
You will receive an email closer to the time with a schedule and links to sign up. Please see key dates: International Admission Deadlines | University of East London (uel.ac.uk)
This programme covers the following:
– How to set-up your UEL account
– Enrolment session
– Understanding academic integrity and approaches to learning at university
– Accessing key study tools
– On-campus accommodation
– Academic referencing and paraphrasing
– Presentation skills
TRAVELLING TO THE UK
Preparing to travel to the UK
You should check the UK Government website for the latest advice and guidance on Entering the UK: Overview
Important note: We recommend you do not book flights to the UK until you have received your visa. You are required to travel to the UK by the course start date stated on your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS).
Please contact the International Student Advice (ISA) Service (isa@uel.ac.uk) if you require further advice on travelling to the UK
Some key London airports can be seen below:
London Airports:
Gatwick Airport
Telephone: +44 (0) 344 892 0322
Website: www.gatwickairport.com
Heathrow Airport
Telephone: +44 (0)844 335 1801
Website: https://www.heathrow.com/
London City Airport
Telephone: +44 (0)20 7646 0000
Website: www.londoncityairport.com
What to bring in your main luggage
Try to bring what you need rather than everything you want. The climate in the UK is a temperate which means it does not get very cold for long in the winter or very hot for long in the summer. Although on occasion we do get snow, and it can rain frequently, so ensure you bring appropriate clothing.
What to bring in your hand luggage
Your hand luggage should contain items that you can use if your main luggage is delayed. Things to consider: Travel documents, basic toiletries, a spare change of clothing, your mobile phone and charger, first aid kit (and any prescribed medication) any valuable items.
Please check with your airline how many and what size bags you can take on the plane with you. Some airlines might also have different restrictions. Check with your airline before you travel if you’re not sure about what you can take as hand luggage. Please be aware of the restrictions on electronic devises and electrical items, food, animals or plants, medicines, chemicals, toxic substances, sports equipment, tools, knives, weapons, explosives etc.
If you do take liquids in your hand luggage:
– containers must hold no more than 100ml – containers must be in a single, transparent, resealable plastic bag, which holds no more than a litre and measures approximately 20cm x 20cm – contents must fit comfortably inside the bag so it can be sealed – the bag must not be knotted or tied at the top – you’re limited to 1 plastic bag per person
– you must show the bag at the airport security point
If you are bringing medicine containing a controlled drug into the UK, you will need to prove your medicine is prescribed to you if:
– it contains a ‘controlled drug’ – you have it on you when you’re entering the UK
This would require supporting documentation from a relevant medical professional (e.g. a letter from your doctor or a copy of your prescription).
If you are entering the UK on a Student visa, you should carry the below documents in your hand luggage:
Hand luggage checklist
Document
Passport
UKVI Decision letter (if applicable)
Copy of your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)
UKVI TB test certificate (if you were required to have one as part of your Student visa application)
Copy of qualifications listed on your CAS
ATAS certificate (if this was stated on your CAS)
Finances (copy of your bank statement / loan letter)
Evidence of where you are planning on staying
Prescribed medication and/or a letter from your doctor or a copy of your prescriptions
Tick
Border control
When you enter the UK, you will need to pass through immigration control. You should ensure the border officer stamps your passport indicating the date you enter the UK. You will need this stamp to complete your Right to Study check and collect your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP card).
Important note: Even though at this point your Student visa would have been granted, the border officer may still ask you questions about your chosen course, the university and where you will be living in the UK. It is important you are prepared to answer these questions.
If you have any significant difficulties at this time, you can call the International Student Advice and Compliance team via our student hub lines +44 (0)20 8223 4444.
Entering the UK via the eGates
If you are a national from an EU country, Australia, Canada, Iceland, Japan, Liechtenstein, New Zealand, Norway, Singapore, South Korea, Switzerland or the USA you may be able to enter the UK via the eGates for quicker entry.
If you are an EU/EEA national, you should be aware that most EU/EEA nationals are no longer able to use their identity card. It is advisable to use your passport at the UK border. For further information, please refer to the link in the paragraph above.
Important note: If entering the UK via the eGates, you must keep a copy of your boarding pass as you will need this to complete your enrolment and collect your BRP card (if applicable) as this is your proof of the date you entered the UK.
ACCOMMODATION
On campus accommodation
Guidance on UEL accommodation, including information on deadline dates, eligibility criteria, room types, and allocation policy can be found on our Accommodation webpages
All our rooms are en-suite and single occupancy, meaning you will have your own private bedroom and bathroom. Moreover, all bills are included in your rent so the prices you see on our webpages cover all utility costs.
If you would like to live in our on-campus Halls of Residence, you can make an application on our Accommodation Portal. If you are yet to do this, we encourage you to apply as soon as possible.
Tenancies for the upcoming academic year start on 14 September 2024 so that is the earliest you will be able to move into your room on campus. Further information regarding key collection and arrival will be provided after you have accepted a room offer.
Residential Life will be hosting a full programme of events, activities and workshops to welcome you to UEL. Please continue to check our Accommodation Portal and our social media pages in the lead up to your arrival to book your space!
If you have any questions, please contact the team by emailing ResidentialLife@uel.ac.uk or calling 020 8223 4445. We hope to see you on campus soon!
Off campus accommodation
If you are living off campus, we recommend you find accommodation in a close proximity to the university so you can travel to classes on time. Please note, some of your classes maybe scheduled in the evenings and across multiple days. You will be required to be able to commute to attend all your classes. The costs and time to commute to campus will not be accepted as justifiable reasons for non-attendance. Therefore, please see below guidance to help you plan your living arrangements prior to arriving in the UK accordingly.
Housing can be sourced from multiple places. While searching, it is important to remember that you should go through a reputable source to find a property such as a respected website or an agency or a company who deals exclusively with student properties. Looking on Facebook and/or House Sharing platforms is also a great way to find properties which in some cases may even be cheaper, but you must be vigilant when searching and not offer anyone any money in advance of seeing the property, fully understanding the terms, and signing paperwork. It is also advisable to get someone you trust to look over your agreement before you sign it. It is of utmost important that you have a tenancy agreement. Never move into a place you are living without a signed agreement.
Here is an example of an agreement provided by the government with additional helpful pieces of information, including checklists for you to follow before moving into a property: Model agreement for a shorthold assured tenancy - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
Below you will find some other helpful resources when searching for housing:
Local Estate Agents:
You can find these by searching via Google the place you would like to live e.g. Stratford Estate Agents or using this Rightmove link - Estate Agents in Stratford | Letting Agents in Stratford (rightmove.co.uk) It is currently set to Stratford but on the right-hand side of the page – you can search for other surrounding areas.
Homestay agencies:
– HFS London Homestays - Host Family Specialists in London
– Rooms to rent in Homestays in London | Student Accommodation – www.homestayin.com
Online Estate Agents:
– Rightmove - Student Accommodation - Find Student Flats & Houses across the UK (rightmove.co.uk)
– Zoopla - Houses & flats to rent | Properties to rent in the UK - Zoopla
– OnTheMarket - Student accommodation | OnTheMarket
– Home World Management - Properties For Rent – Home World Management
– ApartmentWharf - Apartments Wharf| Premium Flats & Rooms for Rent in London | Ideal Flatshares (apartmentwharf.com)
– Savills - Savills UK | Student Accommodation
Online Housing Platforms:
– SpareRoom for flatshare, house share, flat share & rooms for rent
– Rooms to Rent in London, Flatshare London - Roomgo
– Share accommodation and flatmates in London, Greater London, UK | flatmate.com
Student Accommodation Providers:
– iQ Student Accommodation - Shoreditch, London Bridge, Highbury, Islington
– Farndale Court – Greenwich
– Essential Student Living – Lewisham
– Campus Living Villages – Greenwich
– Mezzino – Greenwich
– Fresh – Lambeth, Brixton, and Battersea
– Scape – Shoreditch, Kings Cross, Mile End, Bloomsbury, Canada Water
– Amber – Various
Tips and tricks for finding London housing while abroad:
The easiest way to find accommodation suitable for students while abroad is by applying to an alternative student accommodation complex. They will include all bills and utilities in the rental price and there is a wide range of them available in London. They can be more expensive than Private Rented Accommodation, but it may be worth it for peace of mind surrounding your housing situation. Please see some of companies in the “Where to find Housing” section, listed with the places that they provide accommodation.
Accommodation price comparison websites often have agents who can contact you to offer you one-on-one support when trying to find accommodation. They will usually contact you via WhatsApp to do this and give you personalized suggestions.
Please see a few of these websites below:
– UniAcco - Book Best Student Accommodation At Affordable Prices
– Global Student Accommodation and Housing | University Living
– Casita: Discover the best Student Accommodation options
If you are having difficulty finding accommodation, please contact any Homestay organization as they offer you a fully furnished room in someone’s home, and while you are staying there, your host can help you get to know the local area/wider London. There are options for meals to be included in the bundle, which will help with the cost of living in London. This option allows you to have a safe place to stay while you are figuring out a more permanent housing situation, although you can stay there as long as you need. Please find details of a few of these organizations in the “Where to find Housing” section - they can be contacted before your arrival to London.
This helpful article offers tips to help you find accommodation: Top 10 Tips to Find an Ideal Student Accommodation Abroad - Getmyuni
What to AVOID when looking for housing
Please make sure that putting yourself and your housing needs first when looking for properties. The housing market is a business, and most landlords treat it as such, without putting their tenants needs first. The articles linked below will tell you what to look out for when searching for housing and what to check before signing a tenancy agreement.
Again, it is incredibly important to have a signed tenancy agreement before you move into your property as this is protection for you.
– Student renting guide - Zoopla – Private rental guide for students | Compare the Market – 8 things to check before signing a tenancy agreement - Save the Student
Knowing your housing rights:
It is important that you understand what rights you have when it comes to housing in the UK.
Most landlords will issue an assured shorthold tenancy which can usually be 6 months or a 1 year. Once this ends, it will automatically change into a monthly contract. This will enable you to give your one month notice with ease if you are looking to leave.
If you live in student accommodation or with a hall’s provider, you will enter a common law tenancy with a fixed term, as you will only be staying part of the calendar year.
You should only be paying rent once a month or once a week (or on a recurring schedule, e.g., every 4 weeks).
Your landlord cannot raise your rent while you are within your tenancy without your agreement.
Your landlord must also give you a minimum of one month’s notice to do this and propose it in writing.
– Student housing - Citizens Advice – UKCISA - international student advice and guidance - Housing – 10 tenancy rights every student should know - Save the Student
Citizens Advice at UEL:
You can speak to a Citizen’s Advice representative on UEL campus directly and they can help you with housing advice and/or landlord disputes. They will offer easy to understand, trustworthy advice and signpost you to any additional help you may need. Once you are an enrolled student, please speak to the Student Hub at either of our campuses to be sign-posted to these services.
Suggested areas less than 1-1.5 hours transit from campus: Please see a list of suggested areas that are less than 1.5 hours from campus around London. Your journey needs to be manageable for you to travel to and from the University, enabling you to attend lectures and events. Please make sure that you are taking into consideration both the cost of the property and the cost of travel to and from the university when deciding where to live.
Living out of London may seem beneficial for cheaper housing options, but travelling into London can be up to £20 per day, or more (even on the outskirts of London). It is not advisable for you to live out of London, even with the addition of travel lines that boast about how quickly you can travel in.
UEL is an East London university, so looking at places within East and Southeast London is most advisable; however, you must choose places that are suitable for you and your needs. Please also take into consideration the number of changes on public transport you would have to make to travel. You can live somewhere within 40 minutes of the University, but due to number of changes it could take you a lot longer, especially if certain tube lines or travel options are experiencing delays or cancellations.
– Stratford
– Custom House
– Docklands/Silvertown
– Woolwich & North Woolwich
– Barking
– East Ham
– West Ham
– Stepney
– Mile End
– Bow
– Limehouse
– Hackney
– Greenwich & North Greenwich
– Lewisham
– Thamesmead
– Eltham
– Catford
– Haggerston/Hoxton
– Wanstead
– Peckham
– Deptford
– Bermondsey
– Elephant and Castle
– Leyton
– Walthamstow
– Tottenham
– Camden
IMMIGRATION - AFTER YOUR ARRIVAL
Collecting your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) Card (if applicable)
If you require a BRP card, this is your visa. Not everyone who is issued a visa will receive a BRP card.
Will I receive a BRP card?
If you apply to come to the UK for six months or less, you will be given a visa vignette (sticker) in your passport that will cover the duration of your visa and will not be issued a BRP card.
If your visa is issued for longer than six months, you will either receive a BRP card or a digital immigration status.
The table below shows when you should expect to receive a BRP and/or a digital immigration status:
I was directed to and able to use the UK Immigration: ID Check App at the beginning of the visa application
I was not able to use the UK Immigration: ID Check App
E-visa (digital immigration status) and BRP
E-visa (digital immigration status) only
BRP card only BRP card only
*You are considered a ‘Visa national’ if you are a citizen of one of the countries listed in the Immigration Rules Appendix Visitor: Visa national list.
If you are issued with a digital immigration status, you will be able to view your immigration status online. You will also be able to generate a share code which you must provide to the University, so that we can keep up to date records and verify your immigration status in the UK. Please see how you can view and prove your immigration status on the UK Government website.
Collecting your BRP card
If you require a BRP card, and you applied for your visa outside the UK, you will need to collect your BRP card from the Post Office that should be outlined at the end of your visa application, or your UKVI Decision letter upon arrival to the UK.
Documents to take with you when collecting your BRP card
1. Passport (with your 90-day visa vignette, that has been stamped at the UK border)
2. UKVI Decision letter
If you entered via the eGates - you will need to provide your boarding pass to show when you entered the UK.
If you applied for your Student visa inside the UK
If you require a BRP card, it will be posted to the address you provided on your Student visa application.
Under 18 years old
If you are under 18 years old, you will need to be accompanied by a responsible adult to collect your BRP card. To do this you must nominate someone to collect your BRP card by visiting the UK Government website
You can find more information about BRPs on the UK Government website
If you notice an error on your BRP card
If you notice an error on your BRP please contact the International Student Advice (ISA) Service at isa@uel.ac.uk who can help you get it corrected.
Important note: If your BRP expires on 31 December 2024 but you know your immigration permission should be valid for longer, this is due to a change in UKVI processes rather than being an error. UKVI have confirmed that they will publish details about how to update your BRP in early 2024. In the meantime, you do not need to take any action and your immigration status will not be affected.
You will be able to check the that your leave has been granted correctly in the following ways:
–
You may find this information in your decision letter; or – You will be able to access this information on the UK Government website
Top tip: BRP card safety
Please keep your BRP safe. If you lose your BRP card it can take up to 8 weeks to replace. You will only need your BRP card for the following:
– Completing enrolment – Registering with a doctor (General Practitioner, GP) – Opening a bank account – Proof of rent (if you are not living in UEL halls of residence) – Proof of work (if you are wanting to get a part time job)
You are not required to carry your BRP card with you when leaving your house, so keep it safe with your passport.
ENROLMENT
Guidance on enrolment can be found on our Enrolment webpages: You will receive an email from the University as soon as you are eligible to enrol
OBTAINING YOUR STUDENT ID CARD
Obtaining your Student ID Card and why it is important. Obtaining your student ID card at UEL is crucial for secure access to campus facilities and services as your university’s passport. The card allows you to borrow from the library, use printing facilities, and record on-campus class attendance. The first card is free, but you must complete your enrolment to function correctly. It is non-transferable, and misuse or non-compliance with terms and conditions can result in disciplinary actions, including card removal and potential legal proceedings.
Step by Step guide on how to gain your student ID card is available by scanning this QR code:
If you cannot register for a student ID card on the UEL Photo and Identity Verification Portal due to a technical issue, you must collect it from the Student Hub on campus. Please note that you must be fully enrolled and provide supporting paperwork proving your identity to issue your card.
Please note that your Student ID Card remains the property of UEL. It may be disabled, and your access to buildings and other facilities denied if you fail to pay tuition fees/debts to UEL or breach other University regulations.
RIGHT TO STUDY CHECK
When you arrive in the UK, the University has a statutory requirement to collect copies of your immigration documents to ensure you have the correct permission to study in the UK. You will be invited to upload evidence of your immigration permission on the Right to Study Check on UEL Direct once you have enrolled online.
The evidence you will be asked to provide will vary depending on your immigration status. You will receive further support to assist you with this process. Guidance can be found on our Right to Study webpage
STUDENT VISA RESPONSIBILITIES
If you are on Student visa you have certain responsibilities and you will be reminded and supported to navigate these throughout your studies.
Some of your responsibilities are listed below:
– Enrol before the enrolment deadline
– Provide a copy of your passport and visa documents electronically to the University when requested
– Meet the University’s attendance and engagement policy
– Ensure your contact details are always up to date on UEL Direct
– Inform the International Student Advice (ISA) Service of any errors on your BRP card so support can be provided to get it corrected
– Inform the International Compliance team if your immigration status changes during your studies
– Pay your tuition fees on time
– Work only as permitted by the conditions of your Student visa
– Study the course as outlined on your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)
– Do not access public funds
– Seek support early
Further guidance on your Student visa responsibilities can be found here: Your visa responsibilities | University of East London (uel.ac.uk)
Important Items:
Attendance:
You will be required to attend all your classes and lectures and register your attendance by swiping your UEL ID card on the card readers. Attendance is monitored as a condition of your Student visa. The university does not authorise any absence from studies during term time
Travel/ absence during term time
You should plan your trips during official vacation periods. You can find out when you are on vacation via a student status letter when you enrol. University’s Key Term Dates can be found on uel.ac.uk/study/key-term-dates
If you are required to travel for an emergency during term time you should seek advice from the International Student Advice (ISA) Service.
Need to renew a residency permit for another country?
If you need to travel for the purpose of renewing your residency permit, this would not be considered to be an unforeseen circumstance and you will be marked as absent for any classes/ engagement sessions you miss. It is strongly advised you plan in advance to leave the UK during official vacation ‘holiday’ period.
INTERNATIONAL ORIENTATION PROGRAMME
The exciting International Orientation Programme will take place on 18 September 2024. It is important that you attend. Invites will be sent to you directly by the Student Life department. You can also follow them on Instagram to stay connected (@uelstudentlife).
The International Orientation Programme is a range of events that will give you the chance to see the campus, have your visa related questions answered, meet other students and learn about what lies ahead at University of East London.
ATTENDANCE RECORDING GUIDELINES
Ensuring your presence at campus-based events is a simple and important task. Here is how you can efficiently record your attendance:
ID Card Usage:
– Your university-issued ID card is important. Keep it with you when you are on campus and do not share with anyone else.
– Beyond granting access to campus facilities, it allows you to record your attendance at various events throughout your student journey.
Record Attendance:
– Locate the designated room mentioned on your timetable.
– Swipe your ID card on the attendance card reader in that room.
Timing Matters:
– Ensure you swipe your card no earlier than 10 minutes before the event starts.
– For attendance to be recorded, you must swipe in on the card reader in the room stated on your timetable no earlier than 10 minutes before the start of their event and no later than 15 minutes before the end of the event. Any swipe in between counts.
Consequences of Early or Late Swiping:
– Swiping too early will result in an “absent” mark (more than 10 minutes before the start of class).
– Swiping after the first 15 minutes will mark you as “late.”
– Late marks contribute to your engagement score, so be mindful of timing.
Tutor’s Discretion:
– Keep in mind that, in certain situations, your tutor may not permit entry if you arrive late.
Monitoring and Checks:
– The Student Engagement & Retention Team will conduct checks throughout the academic year as requested by academics.
– Checks are done regularly with the aim to identify struggling students so that the University can put in place support to get them back on track. Students consistently below a required level could eventually face withdrawal from their programme.
Consequences of Circumvention:
– Circumvention is the act of recording false attendance for yourself or another student at a teaching event and is deemed a breach of the Engagement and Attendance policy. This is considered non-academic misconduct and may lead to your withdrawal from your course. If you are unable to attend your timetabled session, complete an absence form and Speak to your academic.
The Student Engagement & Retention Team is here to support you in your academic journey.
By adhering to these guidelines, you contribute to the accuracy of attendance records and demonstrate your commitment to academic engagement and success.
LIFE IN THE UK
Cost of living
Student visa rules state that you must have enough money to support your living expenses in the UK. Living expenses include your rent, bills, food, travel and other personal expenses. It is important that you do not divert this money for other purposes.
The financial requirement for your visa is an estimate of how much it will cost you to live in the UK. Your actual costs will vary depending on where you choose to live and your lifestyle choices. It is important that you make a budget plan before arriving in the UK. Look into the average cost of living in London before you arrive, so you know what to expect. The following exercise can be useful in working out whether you have enough funds in place to cover your costs -
1. Note down the amount you have to cover your living expenses
2. Subtract your essential costs (e.g. rent, food, travel)
3. Calculate your disposable income (e.g. hobbies, eating out)
Build a small emergency fund into your budget, in case you face any unexpected costs.
Opening a UK Bank account
We recommend you open a UK bank account once you arrive in the UK. You will need to provide evidence of who you are and where you live to open a UK bank account. You will need:
– A student status letter issued by the Hub
– Your passport and immigration documents
– Any other documents the bank requests
The University cannot provide you with any recommendations regarding a specific bank you should choose. Money Saving Expert and Money Helper have useful guides and information for you to compare accounts.
Registering with a Doctor (GP)
Some of you may have paid for the Immigration Heath Surcharge (IHS) as part of your visa application. This allows you to use most services on the National Health Service (NHS) in the UK for free.Registering with a doctor (also known as a General Practitioner, ‘GP’) provides you access of support for your mental and physical health. It is important to register with a doctor in the UK upon your arrival.
If you live on campus you can self-register at the Royal Docks Medical Practice
If you live off campus use the NHS Find a GP to search for a GP near your home address, then contact them and let them know you would like to register.
We recommend you register with a GP in the first month of being in the UK.
Prescriptions
If your doctor provides you with medication, they may write a prescription for you. You will need to take your prescription to a pharmacy and pay a standard charge.
Dentists
Dentists are not free and can be expensive, so hopefully you will have had a checkup before you left home. If you do need to see a dentist, when making your initial dental appointment please check the dentist will accept you as NHS patient. Please visit the NHS website for details on how to find a dentist near to where you plan to live in the UK.
Driving in the UK
In London most students use public transport (train, tube and buses) to travel. Before driving any vehicle in the UK, you should check all legal requirements that apply to the vehicle and the driver.
For more information, please see Driving in Great Britain on a non-GB licence
UKCISA also has very useful information about driving in the UK.
Drink driving is illegal in the UK, you should always wear a seatbelt where one is provided and observe speed limits which are in miles per hour (MPH)
Frauds tricks and scams
If you receive an unexpected email, telephone call or letter from someone who claims to be from the Home Office, UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI), DVLA or HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC), it may be a scam.
The Home Office will never contact you to ask for money or your personal details.
Please see the guidance: fraud, tricks and scams and how to protect yourself on the UK Government website
If you are suspicious: – do not give out any personal information, or confirm that any personal information they have is correct – do not pay them any money – do not pay them using electronic vouchers
Please contact the University or the local Police should you be concerned that you have been targeted. You can report fraud and cyber crime online at www.actionfraud.police.uk or by telephone on 0300 123 2040. You can forward suspicious emails to report@phishing.gov.uk, and suspicious texts to 7726.
The Metropolitan Police have created a series of Little Guides to explain some of the most common scams and give advice on how to avoid falling victim to them.
WORKING IN THE UK
National Insurance number
Before working in the UK, you are required to obtain a National Insurance Number. You will only be able to apply for a National Insurance Number once you have arrived in the UK.
Working restrictions
If you are on a Student visa you are restricted to only working the hours stated on your Biometric Residence permit (BRP) card / digital immigration status during term time. This will be either 10 or 20 hours per week depending on your course.
If you are studying on a part time Student visa, you will not have immigration permission to work. This includes placements and paid/unpaid work.
Term time is defined by the University’s academic calendar and you can request a student status letter from the hub once you have arrived in the UK and enrolled.
If you are on a Student visa you are not allowed to:
– Be self-employed or engage in business activity
– Take employment as an entertainer
- Entertainer includes singers, comedians, dancers, actors and other performers.
- There is an exception if you are undertaking a work placement on a degree level of above course in music or drama.
– Take employment as a professional sportsperson including a sports coach
– Fill a full-time permanent vacancy
– Be a Doctor or dentist in training
You can read the Student Route Caseworker Guidance (see page 91 onwards) for information and guidance on working in the UK on your Student visa.
Once you enrol you can access all our immigration guidance for current students here: International Student Advice (ISA) and International Compliance (sharepoint.com)
Important note: A lot of international students in the UK find part-time work. It is a way to enhance your skills, practice your English and meet new people. However, it is important that you must not rely on finding a job in the UK to become a substantial part of your income. According to the Immigration Rules, you should have access to sufficient funds for your living expenses whilst you are in the UK without needing to work. It can be quite difficult to find a suitable part-time job that fits in with your university timetable. A job may help contribute to your expenses whilst you are in the UK, but it must not be your only source of income.
Income Tax
You pay income tax on your earnings. However, if your total annual income from all sources (apart from student loans, scholarships and educational grants) is not more than £12,570 (this figure is for the tax year 2023/2024), you should receive your wages without tax being deducted.
Please visit the UK Government website for further information.
CULTURE SHOCK
Culture shock is a typical process of being unfamiliar with the practices and routines of an unfamiliar environment. This experience may lead to feeling a range of emotions which can feel unsettling.
We would like to reassure all international students there is support available.
Do visit the Globally Minded website specifically designed to support international students with support regarding settling in pre arrival and when you do arrive within the UK.
Globally minded website - Browzer: Globally Minded | Arrival
The website covers a range of topics such as preparing students for life in the UK, supporting the transition, accessing health services and wellbeing issues such as making friends and academic differences.
The process of settling into the UK and engaging within your academic studies may be that you experience culture shock, which can impact on how you engage with the university.
Some strategies to support yourself trying to manage culture shock include:
1. Try to take each day at a time, hour by hour
2. Try not to compare your journey to others – your journey is personal and unique
3. Find ways to manage stress for example through exercise, mindfulness, journalling
4. Remember things always change
5. Stay connected with others
6. Try to remember something which reminds you of home
7. The University have several support resources please do reach out for help.
Most importantly do remember to look after yourself. Your wellbeing is important.
SUPPORT WHEN YOU NEED IT
International Student Advice (ISA) Service
Our International Student Advice (ISA) Service are professionally trained to provide specific immigration advice and the service is regulated by the Office of Immigration Services Commissioner (OISC). If you need any advice, support or guidance on your Student visa application, understanding your Student visa responsibilities or preparing to travel to the UK please contact isa@uel.ac.uk or use the message box in your CAS shield account.
Once you have travelled to the UK and enrolled you will gain access to further immigration advice and support for current enrolled students, as well as access to daily appointment sessions, workshops and monthly newsletters. Please visit once enrolled: International Student Advice (ISA) and International Compliance (sharepoint.com)
Student Money Advice and Rights Team (SMART)
We appreciate that finance is one of the key considerations when applying to university. Our Student Money Advice & Rights Team (SMART) is on hand to give you advice, information and guidance on managing your finances. The team operate a number of bursary funds that can help with unexpected expenses. SMART offer a daily telephone advice service as well as weekly appointments specifically for international students. Please visit once enrolled: Student Money Advice & Rights Team (SMART) (sharepoint.com).
Student Wellbeing Service
The Student Wellbeing Service would like to encourage all students to try to keep their minds healthy whilst studying at the University of East London. We understand that this can differ from student to student. Keeping your mind healthy is just as important as keeping your physical body healthy.
The Student Wellbeing Service is a dedicated service who can advise on a range of emotional and wellbeing issues and offer psychological support. We recognise moving to the UK may have an impact on your wellbeing and would like to reassure you we are here to provide mental health support if needed.
We offer a safe and confidential space to be able to explore issues that may be affecting your student life or ability to engage in your academic studies. The Wellbeing service also offer Counselling, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Stress management support, Sports Dock mental health scheme and self-help resources.
We currently deliver the International student social wellbeing group offered once a month. This group was created to address the needs of international students such as isolation, promoting independent living skills and enhancing overall wellbeing. The group aims to promote social connections through engagement in a range of meaningful activities such as preparing healthy smoothies, gardening, Art and crafts and much more.
Please visit once enrolled: Student Wellbeing Service (sharepoint.com)
Disability & Dyslexia Team
If you have a disability, long -term health condition or a specific learning difference (SpLD) such as dyslexia, dyspraxia or ADHD then please contact us. We are here to ensure students are not disadvantaged whilst they are studying here at UEL.
We can put in place support arrangements for assessments, using the library or reasonable adjustments for your teaching and learning for the duration of your course. To access this support, you will need to provide medical evidence: a letter or report from a qualified medical professional or assessor. You will need to provide an official translated copy of your evidence if the original is not in English. Please send a copy of your medical evidence to ddac@uel.ac.uk and we will contact you to arrange a registration appointment with our team.
You can also book an appointment with our team via the Student Hub on 020 8223 4444
Academic Tutors
There are many new skills required to transfer your subject knowledge into a good written form for essays and reports. The Academic Tutors are here to work with you on the writing and maths skills that you will need to achieve success in your assignments.
There are academic writing self-help guides and resources to work through in your own time. These will enable you to develop your competency in topics such as grammar and punctuation, referencing and reading and note-taking.
We also offer appointments, in-person and online, where one of our team will be happy to look at your work and offer advice and answer any questions you may have about your academic writing or maths.
You can also submit your assignments to our MyFeedback service, where our team will help you identify areas for development on grammar, structure and referencing (including plagiarism).
You will be able to access all our resources and support, once you are enrolled as a UEL student. Here are the relevant links:
Link to English and Academic writing resources.
Link to drop-in sessions and appointments
Link to MyFeedback
Link to more information about the team and what we offer
Chaplaincy
The Multi-Faith Chaplaincy at UEL is a place for students of all faiths and none. We understand the importance of faith and spirituality, particularly when navigating a new and unfamiliar environment. We are here to help you to explore and celebrate your faith or belief during your time at UEL.
We can help connect you to a local faith community, provide specific religious support and guidance, or just provide a confidential, safe, non-judgemental space for you to talk about anything that is of importance to you (whether faith-related or not). We have regular drop-in sessions at the Faith and Reflection Centre or you can book directly some time for a one-to-one conversation with a Chaplain.
For further information, once you are enrolled, please visit our page here: Chaplaincy (sharepoint.com) or contact the Chaplaincy Manager, Revd Dr James Grenfell - chaplaincy@uel.ac.uk
Once you enrol you will gain access to all the support services within the University to assist you on your journey. Please see details of further support services Student Support | University of East London (uel.ac.uk) and career guidance Career Zone | University of East London (uel.ac.uk)
