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Find out more about starting your studies in centre with us

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We're looking forward to welcoming you

Whether you are getting ready to join us at the centre for the start of your programme or arriving at the centre 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.

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.

Safety principles include:

  • Wearing face coverings is encouraged around all our buildings
  • Hand sanitiser stations
  • Enhanced cleaning and sterilising measures
  • One-way systems and signage to manage the flow of people around the centre
  • Smaller class sizes to enable social distancing
  • Utilising online learning to manage number of students in the centre
  • Additional support for vulnerable students or those with special requirements

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

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 in centre

Question Answer

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.

What facilities are available in centre?

Visit our student life pages to find out more about what to expect in centre.

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

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.

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.
  • 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.

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.

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:

  • Gailarde
  • Uni Kit Out

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:

  • 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, 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.
Find out more about starting your studies or check the latest COVID-19 information.