We're looking forward to welcoming you
Whether you are getting ready to join us on campus for the start of your programme or arriving on campus after starting your course from home, we are really looking forward to welcoming you to the International Study Centre. Here you can look forward to a safe, fun and inclusive learning experience as you build cultural experiences and create networks for your future. Enhanced health and safety measures, blended learning, and a supportive community of international students and expert staff ensure you will have the best start to your university experience.
Here to support you
From visa application through to booking accommodation, you’ll be fully supported by our dedicated team every step of the way. We’ll support you with:
- What to pack
- Planning for your arrival
- Visa
- Accommodation
- How to make the most of your time with us
Studying in Centre
The International Study Centre is open for you to begin your studies and start your journey to achieving your university and career ambitions. In order to create the safest possible learning environment, and whilst social distancing restrictions are in place, you will benefit from blended learning. You will also receive one-to-one support, giving you help and guidance every step of the way.
Keeping you safe on campus
What it's like to live and study in the UK
Moving away from home is a big step, and at first everything will be very new. New food, new culture, new people – and that’s all before you’ve even started studying. As you’re preparing to study abroad, find out some answers to our most commonly asked questions and what you’ll need to bring along with you from home.
What to pack for the UK
Although most things you need will be readily available in the UK, here are some things you might want to have when you arrive.
- Any medication you take – with prescriptions translated into English
- Essential toiletries you will need upon arrival
- A warm coat
- Travel adapters to charge your electronics when you arrive at the International Study Centre
- Some money in cash – we recommend about £50 to get you started
Leeds is a great place for shopping, so you can buy anything else you need when you’re here. You’ll be able to find clothes, home furnishings, electrical items and groceries.
Look out for fraud
Scammers may specifically target international students by pretending to be the Police, Visa issuing authorities, education agents or other regulatory bodies. It is important to be able to recognise common signs of fraudulent activity and know what to do if you come across it. The best way to protect yourself from any kind of fraud is to protect your passwords, regularly update your devices with the most up to date security software and never share your bank details or transfer money to an account you don’t recognise.
We're here to help
Make sure you tell a teacher or a member of student services team if you receive a suspicious message or phone call, or if you have any concerns about fraudulent activity. It is important that you let us know as soon as possible so that we can help to protect you and other international students in case they are targeted in the same way.
Frequently asked questions on joining us on campus
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What facilities are available on campus?
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Visit our student life pages to find out more about what to expect on campus.
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What should I do if I need support when I arrive in the UK?
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We’ll ensure that you have all the information and support you need ahead of your move to the UK. We will provide you with tailored information to prepare you for your journey; including information about what to pack, planning for your arrival, and how to make the most of your time at the International Study Centre.
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What should I do if I am in the UK and I need health advice or welfare support?
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If you show the symptoms of COVID-19 then you should follow official UK medical advice. You should also contact the International Study Centre for further information.
View the government’s advice on what to do if you are displaying symptoms of the coronavirus.
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If you are coming to the UK to study for 6 months or longer on a Student visa, you will be required to pay an immigration health surcharge as part of your visa application fee.
The immigration health surcharge will entitle students in the UK under the Student visa route to access NHS care at no additional cost in the same way as a permanent UK resident. The National Health Service (NHS) provides a wide range of health care services including:
- Registration with a GP practice (family doctor) for non-urgent appointments and health checks. You will receive information about how to register with a doctor when you arrive.
- Emergency care in local hospitals
- Referrals to specialists if and when required (waiting lists may apply depending on the urgency of the problem)
- On-going medical support and care for any long term medical conditions such as diabetes or asthma
Not all treatments are covered by the NHS. For example; non-emergency dentistry, orthodontics, routine eye tests and prescriptions for medicines need to be paid for.
If you are studying in the UK for less than 6 months on a short term study visa, you are not required to pay the health surcharge as part of your visa application and are therefore not eligible for full NHS support. In these circumstances, you are advised to take out medical insurance as you will be liable for NHS charges for the treatment you receive in the UK except for in a medical emergency. If you already have medical insurance in your home country, you may wish to check whether this can be extended to cover your stay in the UK.
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What if I need to quarantine on arrival?
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Before you travel, you should check to see if you need to quarantine when you arrive into the UK. You will not be able to leave your accommodation during quarantine so it's important that you are prepared.
If you are in Study Group managed accommodation, support will be provided by the International Study Centre, to assist you to remain in your student accommodation during your quarantine period. If you have queries, please contact your Centre for assistance.
If you are staying in privately arranged accommodation, it may not be fully equipped for your two weeks, so before you travel, you should make plans to ensure you have what you need including bedding, kitchen equipment and food. If you are unable to bring any of this with you, there are websites available where you can pre-order the items you need.
For bedding and kitchen equipment:
You can order healthy food directly from supermarkets. Make sure that you check your accommodation address on their website ensure that they deliver to your area
- Sainsbury's
- Tesco
- Morrison's
- Asda
If you cannot wait for your food delivery, and would like a takeaway, the delivery services below operate in most areas of the UK:
Finally, consider some entertainment to keep you busy, active and happy during your 14 days. You can always bring a couple of good books or consider an online streaming service for films and TV but remember to do this before you arrive as some companies do not accept non-UK bank accounts or credit cards for payment.
Staying at home for a long time can be difficult. If you are struggling, the staff at the International Study Centre will be there for you if you need any help.
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What if I start or enrol late on my course?
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All students should attend their Induction Week, whether already at the Centre, in quarantine, or virtually from another country.
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What happens during Induction Week?
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Our Induction Week programme will introduce you to your Centre, our staff, and welfare and support services. You will also receive full guidance on maintaining your health and safety whilst studying in the UK.
You will find out about your timetable, as well as important information about how we deliver your course through a mixture of classroom teaching and virtual learning, or virtual, teacher-led learning if you are starting your studies in your home country. There will also be events to help you get to know your fellow students.
If you are not required to quarantine, then some of the Induction Week activity may take place with our staff in the Centre, for example registration sessions for the Biometric Residence Permit.
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