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Find out more about starting your studies in centre with us

In this section

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. When you join us on campus, you will benefit from a high-quality blended learning experience ensuring you get the best of both worlds: with some classes taking place face-to-face, and some activities taking place online.

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.

When you choose to join us on campus, it is important that you are able to regularly attend your face-to-face classes. It is a UK visa requirement that you attend all face-to-face classes at the International Study Centre. To help with this, please ensure you choose accommodation which is within a one hour travel time of the International Study Centre.

All students who choose to travel to the UK from a country on the UK red list can access the UK Quarantine Support Fund. More information is available here: https://www.studygroup.com/support/ukquarantinesupportfund

If you are issued a CAS to study in the UK, you can arrive on-campus in the UK at any time until the 6 April 2022.

Students under the age of 18 who are on a green or amber list country: You can travel to the UK for the start of your programme; or can start your programme online and join us on-campus at a later date; or you can study your whole programme online.

If you are under the age of 18 and are from a UK red-list country, you are able to quarantine within our Bellerbys college residences, as an alternative to using a UK Government Quarantine Hotel facility. We recommend you utilise this quarantine service for the 10 days prior to starting your course. Please refer to our guidance here: https://www.studygroup.com/study/UK-U18 which includes information about our quarantine support packages.

As some lessons will be taught online, you will need to have a PC or Mac based computer. Whilst it is possible to access and interact with most course content using a tablet or smartphone, these devices will not work for assessments. If you do not have access to equipment, please let us know so that we can support you.

Computer

While it is possible to access and interact with most course content using various tablets and smartphones, such as iPads, iPhones and Android devices, these devices will not work for assessments and therefore it is important that you have a PC or Mac based computer available for use.

PC

  • Any Microsoft Windows based PC (laptop or desktop, preferably running Windows 10)
  • Web Browser: Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge (Chromium version)
  • Webcam
  • Microphone
  • Installation of Zoom for Virtual Classroom

Mac

  • Any Apple MacOS based laptop or desktop
  • Web Browser: Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge (Chromium version)
  • Webcam
  • Microphone
  • Installation of Zoom for Virtual Classroom

Internet Connection

Internet connectivity is required for access to all coursework. Internet connectivity could be in the form of a fixed line connection, 3G/4G/5G, wi-fi or other technologies.

Minimum: 600kbps download and 600kbps upload speed

Recommended: at least 1.5Mbps download and 1.5Mbps upload speed

Zoom Restricted Countries

Zoom is used for access to virtual classroom and is therefore an important part of all courses. Zoom is unavailable or restricted in several countries, with the full list available here. While Zoom may still work from the countries listed, individuals should test Zoom using their own equipment to ensure connectivity.

You will learn through a mixture of as many live teacher-led classes as possible, as well as interactive activities and resources delivered in a virtual learning environment. Your health and safety is important and we will observe social distancing guidelines at all times.

A VLE is a virtual learning environment, the online hub for your programme. Here, you will find recorded lessons, collaboration tools, helpful materials, and more.

Assuring the safety and wellbeing of our student and staff communities, as well as providing a quality blended learning experience, is at the heart of all of our planning and decision-making. By listening to your feedback and by following guidance provided by the government, public health authorities and the University, we have put the following measures in place to help you feel confident ahead of arriving on campus:

  • Risk assessments of all our International Study Centre buildings
  • Hand sanitisers in all our International Study Centre spaces
  • Face coverings are available to you
  • Regular deep cleaning for all our buildings
  • International students over the age of 18 will have access to a COVID-19 vaccination, once they have arrived in the UK and are registered with the International Study Centre and National Health Service (NHS)

We will continue to monitor and review all the safety and wellbeing measures throughout the coming months.

While currently regulations allow us to offer a choice of study options, including joining us on campus for face-to-face teaching (usually as part of a blended learning approach which is a mixture of face-to-face and virtual teacher-led learning) we have planned for a number of scenarios should government regulations and requirements change at any stage meaning we can’t deliver courses on campus as intended.

Your experience, education, safety and welfare will always be our number one priority, and our centres already have additional health and safety measures in place, as well as experienced teachers and support staff - offering one to one support at every stage.

Should any social distancing restrictions be introduced, we would make all appropriate changes to the ISC, for example through the introduction of one-way systems and updated signage and rules in the centre. This would of, course, limit the amount of students we can accommodate for face-to-face teaching, so you may need to undertake more of you studies online during any period of social distancing. This will be clearly communicated to you by the ISC staff and our teaching and welfare teams will be there to fully support any transition of learning delivery you may have.

In the event restriction are introduced which means we are unable to deliver any face to face teaching for any period of time during you studies, you learning will be delivered completely online while this is the case. Delivered through a virtual learning environment, you'll remain part of an engaging international community online where you will experience different cultures and make new friends.

While we hope for no significant changes during your time with us, we have an experienced team who have dealt with these restrictions previously and will make sure you will experience the same level of exceptional, high-quality teaching regardless of whether you study virtually or face to face. Academic guidance, tutorial sessions, careers support and personal and welfare support is all available virtually from the same specialist staff. Where necessary you’ll be part of a community of students, connected through live classes, discussion groups, and online social events and activities where needed and we’ll be here to support you every step of the way.

Keeping you safe in the Centre

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.

Useful information for your arrival

The Leeds International Study Centre is located at Carnegie Stand, at the world-famous Emerald Headingley Stadium in the Headingley area of Leeds.

You can easily get to the Leeds International Study Centre by bus, taxi or an Uber car.

United Kingdom consists of England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. People from all around the world, of all cultures, beliefs and religions live here. The UK has a vibrant and cosmopolitan feel that will make you feel welcome.

Leeds is the third largest city in the UK, located in Yorkshire. It is surrounded by the Yorkshire Dales and three other national parks. The city has excellent transport links to York, Manchester, Liverpool and London.

The weather in the UK changes often, so it is a good idea to pack a coat to bring with you. During the summer months in most parts of the country the temperatures reach 20 degrees and in the winter they usually don't drop below 0 degrees Celsius.

You can buy food from around the world in one of many shops and supermarkets located in Leeds. Cafes and restaurants around the city serve Chinese, Italian, Indian and Mexican food, so you will be able to try something new or eat food that reminds you of home.

The Leeds International Study Centre organises fun events for students, so that you can meet your new teachers and make new friends with your classmates. As a student at the Leeds International Study Centre you can also get involved with sports, societies and groups at Leeds Beckett University.

Learning a new language can take some time, so try not to worry. You can help others understand you more easily by speaking clearly and slowly. You can also repeat what you have said. If you don’t understand someone, you can politely ask them to repeat what they have said.

Most students feel homesick sometimes – this is a natural way to feel when you are living away from home. There are many things you can that will help you feel less homesick, such as keeping in regular touch with family and friends over Skype and talking to other students at the Leeds International Study Centre who will be feeling the same way as you.

You can always talk to tutors and staff at the Leeds International Study Centre. They are friendly, understanding and the best people to speak to if you have any issues or concerns, whether it is about your studies or something more personal. They will also be able to advise you where you can get further help and advice.

Whether you start online or in the centre, you’ll benefit from an Induction Week to help you settle in and make friends.

Frequently asked questions on joining us on campus

Question Answer

What facilities are available on campus?

Visit our student life pages to find out more about what to expect on campus.

What should I do if I need support when I arrive in the UK?

Once you confirm your place we will send you a link to our Welcome Hub which will have all the information you need ahead of your move to the UK, including information about what to pack, planning for your arrival, emergency contact numbers, and how to make the most of your time at the International Study Centre.

Can I arrange a taxi from the airport

We can arrange a pick-up from the airport. Once you have confirmed your place, you will receive a link to our Welcome Hub and your Pre-Registration form. You need to provide your details and can request a transfer via the form and book directly online. Visit fees to find out about the cost of a transfer.*

We recommend that you take a pre-booked taxi and avoid public transport, particularly if you need to quarantine. See safer travel guidance for passengers.

*if you are from a red list country and are required to quarantine in a managed quarantine hotel, your quarantine package includes transport to your quarantine hotel. Once your quarantine period is over, we will help you to book a taxi to the Centre/your accommodation.

What should I do if I am in the UK and I need health advice or welfare support?

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.

What should I do if I am in the UK and need medical care?

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. Once you have registered with a GP you will be eligible for the Covid-19 vaccination programme.
  • 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.

I'm travelling from a country on the UK's red-list. What support is there for me?

All students who choose to travel to the UK from a country on the UK red list can access the UK Quarantine Support Fund. More information is available here: https://www.studygroup.com/support/ukquarantinesupportfund

What if I need to quarantine on arrival?

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. You should make plans to ensure you have what you need including bedding, kitchen equipment and food. You can pre-order the items you need.

For bedding and kitchen equipment:

You can order 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:

  • Just Eat
  • Deliveroo

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.

What if I start or enrol late on my course?

All students should attend their Induction Week, whether already at the Centre or in quarantine.

What happens during Induction Week?

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 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.

How can I guard against fraud?

From time to time, 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.

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.