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2010Welcome to Coventry University
www.coventry.ac.uk/international
Contents
Welcome 02
Arriving at Coventry University 03
Before you travel – obtaining ‘entry clearance’ 03
Applying for entry clearance 04
Health checks before your arrival in the UK 06
Travelling to the UK 09
When should I arrive? 09
How do I get to the UK? 11
How to get to Coventry 12
Money Matters 13
Cost of Living 13
Opening a UK bank account 14
Transferring money 14
Insurance 16
Living in the UK 17
Map 17
Coping with culture shock 18
Visit a UK family with HOST 19
Accommodation 21
Health 23
Police Registration 24
Working in the UK 25
Support to International Students 27
International Welcome Week 31
International Induction 33
Enrolment 34
As an international or EU student planning to begin your studies at Coventry you have most probably already been in contact with the International Office: maybe you have met one of our International Officers at an exhibition, been in contact with our admissions team about your application, or spoken to our welfare team for visa advice to get you to the UK. This is just the beginning of our relationship with you.
Welcome
www.coventry.ac.uk/international
Coming to the UK as a student can open up a whole new
world, full of unique opportunities, memorable moments and
life-changing experiences. It can also be a challenge trying to
understand how the UK education system works, learning how
British people interact and communicate with each other, and
adapting to life in the UK whilst away from family, friends and
familiar surroundings.
The International team is made up of multi-lingual staff, many of
whom have experience of living and studying abroad. Based in
the purpose built Student Centre, our job is to make sure that
your time in Coventry is as problem free as possible. It is our
intention to support you throughout your time here - we’ll be there
from picking you up at the airport, right through to graduation!
On behalf of my team I look forward to welcoming you
to Coventry!
Rob Atkinson
Director of International Development
02
International Student Welfare Team
Left to right: James Moran, Hazel English, Michelle Allden
Laura Wright, Kavita Cassidy.
03
This section will help you arrange your travel to the UK, whether this is just a case of arranging a flight or applying for a student visa, we hope that this information will help.
Before you travel – obtaining ‘entry clearance’
Visa nationals:
All non EEA nationals must apply for entry clearance before
travelling to the UK if coming for a course lasting more than 6
months. You can find more information at:
www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/studyingintheuk/adult-students
EEA, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Swiss nationals:
You do not need entry clearance to enter the UK to study. There
may be a brief passport/ID check when you arrive in the UK for
security purposes.
Nationals of Bulgaria, Romania, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Poland, Slovenia and Slovak Republic:
As your country is part of the European Union you no longer need
to apply for entry clearance to come to the UK to study. However,
you may have to register as a worker if you have a job while you
are studying.
Arriving at Coventry University
If you feel confused about anything you read in this document or are unsure of your next steps remember we are here to help. You can always contact one of our International Student Advisers at:
www.coventry.ac.uk/international
Your finances:
The UKBA has specified the amount of money that you will need
to show before they grant you the 10 points for this section:
Length of course Funds needed
9 months or less Course fees AND £600 for each month of the course
More than 9 months First year of course fees AND £5,400 to cover 9 months in the UK
The UKBA will ask to see proof of the above in the form of bank statements, a letter from your bank or a passbook showing amounts held on your bank account. This account must be in your name or your parents/legal guardian’s name and funds must have been in your account for 28 days. If using your parents/legal guardians account, you need to show evidence that you are related to them and that you have permission to use their money, e.g an original birth certificate
The statement or letter should be dated no more than 28 days
before the date of application. If you have already been studying in
the UK on a course of more than 6 months and this course ended
no more than 4 months ago you have an established presence
for studying in the UK and are only required to show £600 for 2
months, totalling £1200.
Calculating Overseas Money:
If you are using overseas currency, you will
be expected to show (write on the document)
the closing balance in pounds sterling. The
UKBA use the official exchange rate on the
OANDA website, which can be found at
www.oanda.com/currency/converter
Applying for entry clearance
If you do need a visa we understand that this can be an
intimidating prospect. Just remember that we are always here to
help with any queries that you may have about the process. We
want to make sure that your application is successful so please
do not hesitate to contact us about your application.
You can apply for your visa within 3 months of your intended course start date. However, you should make sure that you meet all of the requirements in advance to prevent any problems arising. You should contact your nearest British Embassy, Consulate or High Commission to find out how early you can submit your application, or check the UK visas website www.ukvisas.gov.uk
To be granted leave to enter the UK as a full time student, you
must pass a points based assessment and score 40 points to
be issued with a visa. The points are broken down
like this:
30 points for Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) •
from Coventry University, which includes a valid CAS reference
number.
10 points for showing that you have enough money to cover •
the cost of your course, and your monthly living expenses in
the UK for up to 12 months.
Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)
Coventry University hold a licence that allows us to sponsor
people who want to come to the UK to study. We will issue a CAS
statement with a CAS number to confirm we are sponsoring you
to study in the UK. The CAS number provided must be used in
your visa application.
How do you obtain a CAS?
Once you have met all of the conditions of your offer including
deposit/proof of financial sponsorship, we will confirm our Tier
4 visa sponsorship to the UKBA through an online system. You
will then be given a CAS reference. We will issue you with a CAS
statement confirming your CAS reference so that you can use this
to make your student visa application.
NB - Obtaining a CAS is no guarentee that you will be granted a
visa, this is just one element of the procedure.
04
05
The letter must confirm if the parent(s) or legal guardian has
custody or sole responsibility for the child. If they have sole
custody they must sign the letter. If they do not, the letter must
confirm that each parent or legal guardian agrees to the contents
of the letter and must be signed by each parent or legal guardian.
Other types of visas
Prospective student visa:
If you have not yet decided whether to accept your offer of
studies, or need to attend an interview before your offer is made
unconditional, you can apply to come to the UK on a prospective
student visa. This visa will be issued for a maximum of 6 months.
If you do decide to accept your offer during this time you can
change your visa to a full student visa while you are in the UK.
To apply for this visa you will need to make an application to your
nearest British High Commission or Embassy. You can get more
information from the UK visas website: www.ukvisas.gov.uk
If you do obtain a prospective student visa please do not hesitate to contact us so that we can meet with you when you are in the UK to discuss the courses we have available and give you a tour of our University and accommodation.
Student visitor visa:
If you are coming to the UK to study a course for less than 6
months and do not need to work whilst in the UK you should
apply for this visa. This visa cannot be extended and you must
leave the UK when this visa expires. It is unlikely that this is
the correct visa for you if you are going to apply to study an
undergraduate or postgraduate course in the UK.
Visa application document checklist:
Here is a full list of documents that you will need to provide when you make your application at the High Commission or Embassy in your home country:
Passport
CAS statement from Coventry University
Proof of finances
Documents assessed by Coventry University when issuing your CAS (Academic and English qualifications)
Your biometric details; your fingerprints and full face photos will be taken at the High Commission or Embassy
Fee for application
Additional documents required for under 18 year olds: Letter of parental consent
A 16 and 17 year old student has the legal right to live
independently in the United Kingdom, and so may make their own
arrangements for accommodation. However, he/she requires the
consent of his/her parent(s)/legal guardian to do this and to travel
to the United Kingdom (if they are applying from overseas).
Students who are 16 or 17 years old and living independently
must provide:
A letter from their parent(s) or legal guardian, confirming:
1. the relationship between the parent(s) or legal guardian and
the child;
2. that the parent(s) or legal guardian have given their consent
to the application;
3. that the parent(s) or legal guardian have given their consent
to the child student living independently in the United Kingdom;
4. that the parent(s) or legal guardian have given their consent
to the child student’s independent travel to the United Kingdom.
www.coventry.ac.uk/international
Health checks before your arrival in the UK
As a part of your visa application you may be asked to take part in
a medical examination. As such it may be wise to be aware of the
following information:
Tuberculosis:
If you are coming to study in the UK for more than 6 months
and you are from a country where there is a high incident of TB
infection, and you have not had a vaccination, you should have a
medical health check prior to entering the UK. You should bring a
doctor’s letter, and if required, a recent chest x-ray with you when
you travel.
Embassies in:
Bangladesh•
Ghana (which also takes applications from Burkina Faso, •
Cote d’Ivoire, Togo and Niger).
Kenya (which also takes applications from residents of •
Eritrea, Somalia, Democratic Republic of the Congo,
Rwanda, Uganda (visitor applications) and Tanzania)
Pakistan•
Sudan, and•
Thailand (which also takes applications from Cambodia and •
Laos).
are already screening applicants who are coming to the UK for
more than 6 months. If you are tested and are free from TB you
will be issued with a visa confirming the same.
Other Immunisations:
The Department of Health has recommended vaccination
against Meningitis C following outbreaks of the strain in university
students in the UK. This has resulted in a dramatic reduction
of the disease. The best time to have this vaccination is before
coming to university to allow enough time for immunity to
develop. You should approach your doctor at least two weeks,
ideally one month, before you are due to arrive. It is important
to note that this vaccination does not provide protection against
other strains of Meningitis. If you choose to have the vaccination
you should bring your vaccination certificate or card with you.
If you are unable to have this done before you arrive you will be
able to obtain the vaccination here, when you have registered
with a doctor. Any questions you have about the vaccine are best
discussed with your family doctor.
Usually by the time UK students have reached the age of
16 they will also have completed their immunisation against
diphtheria, pertussis (whooping cough), tetanus, polio, measles,
mumps, rubella and tuberculosis. It is best that you check your
immunisation status against these diseases before arrival.
06
If you have any medical notes that your doctor
considers relevant e.g. cervical screening,
relevant past or family history, you may want to
bring these with you to give to your new doctor.
This will be confidential between you and
your doctor.
07
Successful visa applications
Congratulations! If your application has been successful
you will be a given a certificate stamped in your passport giving
you permission to enter and stay in the UK. This will include
the type of stay granted (ie ‘student’), the length of stay, and
any restrictions. It should include the wording ‘Work (and any
changes) must be authorised’ this gives you permission to work
subject to the restrictions applicable for students (see section on
Working in the UK on Page 25).
You should ensure that you are given the correct entry clearance
as a ‘student’. If you are bringing family with you they should be
given clearance as ‘dependants’.
You should also ensure that you are given the correct length of
stay according to the immigration rules:
If your course is 12 months or more you should be granted 1.
12 months + 4 months on your visa.
If your course is less than 12 months but more than 6 2.
months you should be granted 12 months + 2 months on
your visa
If your course is less than 6 months but a preparatory course 3.
for further study you should be granted 6 months + 1 month
on your visa.
If your course is less than 6 months and is not in preparation 4.
for further study you should be granted 6 months + 7 days
on your visa.
If you have an offer to study at the University
and have successfully obtained your visa
congratulations! If you complete your
undergraduate or postgraduate degree in any
subject in the UK you will be entitled to apply
for a 2 year ‘Post Study Work’ visa.
This will give you a great start to your career.
For more information see page 26.
www.coventry.ac.uk/international
Unsuccessful visa applications
Do not travel to the UK if you have been refused entry clearance, as you will almost certainly not be allowed to enter.
Unfortunately after the launch of Tier 4 in April 2009 there are
no longer appeal rights against the refusal of a student visa. Any
appeal rights have been replaced by a right to ‘administrative
review’, which means that your case will be looked at by another
Entry Clearance Officer. It is unlikely that any decision will be
overturned, unless the entry clearance officer has made an
obvious error.
If you are refused and you have a CAS issued
from us, the refusal is likely to be based on your
available funds. We strongly advise that if you
decide to apply for another visa that you assess
your available funds, and ensure you have
enough, to meet the requirements of the UKBA
as set out in the table on page 4.
In the unlikely event your application is refused, please scan or fax
a copy of your written refusal notice with the reasons you think the
decision was wrong, to the International Office for the attention of
the International Student Adviser:
Email: [email protected]
Fax: +44 (0)24 7615 2175
Please ensure you have included your full name, course, applicant
number and contact details (email is preferable) so that we can
respond to you as soon as possible.
Getting further help:
If you feel you need further assistance you could approach:
A lawyer in your home country with specific knowledge of the •
UK immigration system
The British Council in your home country: •
www.britishcouncil.org
Your representative/agent•
A solicitor in the UK by looking at the Law Society website: •
www.lawsociety.org.uk/home.law, go to ‘Choosing
a solicitor’
Families
It is important to plan well ahead if you are bringing your
family with you to the UK. You need to make sure that you
have organised:
Dependant visa’s for your family members•
Accommodation for you and your family•
Nursery/school places for your children•
If you would like any advice or information about these issues
please contact an International Student Adviser by email on
08
09
When should I arrive?
When you know that you have a student visa to study at Coventry
University you need to make your travel arrangements as soon
as possible. Please aim to arrive in the UK before 1200 hours.
This will give you time to travel to Coventry, meet us and settle in
before the University offices close at 1700 hours.
If you have no choice and have to arrive in Coventry after 1700
hours we advise that you organise a stay overnight at a hotel or
guest house in Coventry. However if you have not had a chance
to do this or your arrival to the UK has been delayed please do
not worry we are here to help. You can contact university staff
after 1700 hours on: 024 7688 7688.
Travelling to the UK
Manchester
Leeds
Birmingham
M6M1
M6
M42
Bristol
M5M40
M1
Oxford
CambridgeCoventry
London
EdinburghGlasgow
M6
M74
A1
Key
Motorway junctions
Ringroad junctions
Motorways
Other roads
Rail links
www.coventry.ac.uk/international
10
Students starting in SeptemberInternational Welcome WeekMonday 20th September – Friday 24th September
If you are a new student starting your course in September you
are invited to arrive by Saturday 18th September 2010 to attend
International Welcome Week which takes place from the 20th –
24th September 2010. We hope you can attend as it will be a great
opportunity for you to meet with fellow students, learn more about
the University campus and the city and settle in before term starts.
We strongly recommend students starting Masters programmes in
the Faculty of Health and Life Sciences book a place on Welcome
Week as these courses have an earlier induction date of Tuesday
21st September.
We advise that you book University accommodation for
International Welcome Week so that you are staying with all the
other new students. We will be able to assist you in getting from
your UK arrival airport to Coventry if you arrive on this day.
If you intend to arrive before the 18th September we strongly recommend that you organise to stay in a hotel or guest house for the nights prior to the 18th.
Your induction programme will be incorporated with your faculty’s
induction programme. More details can be found on page 33.
Students starting on Monday 27th September
If you are unable to attend Welcome Week you must arrive in time
for Induction Week starting 27th September 2010 as this is when
you will complete your enrolment formalities and officially join the
University. You will receive details of where you are to report to on
Monday 27th September at the end of August.
If you have booked University accommodation, you can move into
your room on either Saturday 25th or Sunday 26th September.
Your room information pack will tell you where to collect your key,
but when you arrive there will be staff to help you find your way to
your room.
If you need any assistance in the meantime the contact details for
Accommodation and Residences are:
Student Accommodation
Singer Hall
Canterbury Street
Coventry
CV1 5NR
Students starting at other times of the year:
For students who start their courses in January or February 2011,
you should arrive at the date given in your offer letter so that you
can complete the Orientation and Induction programme.
Certain courses begin at other times of the year. If this applies to
you, please ensure that you apply for University accommodation
as soon as you receive your University offer letter. If you are
successful in obtaining University accommodation, you should
report to Accommodation Services at Singer Hall.
Late Arrival:
If you are delayed and will arrive after your expected start date,
please contact us as soon as you can:
Welfare Team: [email protected]
South East Asia Team: [email protected]
Europe Team: [email protected]
Rest of the World Team: [email protected]
East Asia Team: [email protected]
South Asia Team: [email protected]
Africa/Middle East Team: [email protected]
If you have an offer of University accommodation and have paid
your £300 deposit, you must inform the Student Accommodation
Office that you will be late and ask them to reserve a room for
you ([email protected]). Or let the International Office
know so that we can contact Student Accommodation on
your behalf.
Airport Pick Ups:
We will be operating an airport pick up service
to Coventry from Heathrow or Birmingham
International Airport on Saturday 18th
September and Sunday 19th for students
attending Welcome Week. To book your place
visit the Coventry University website, go to the
online store and select International Students.
Pre-Sessional English Language Students:
Students arriving to attend Pre-Sessional English
Language courses will be contacted directly with
arrival, induction and enrolment details.Tel: +44 (0)24 7688 7304
Fax: +44 (0)24 7688 7361
Email: [email protected]
11
When you arrive at the airport you will go through certain
procedures before you can leave and travel to Coventry. You
should follow these instructions carefully (it might be useful for you
to have a copy of this document when you arrive in the UK):
If the Immigration Officer refuses you entry, you may be removed immediately or given a very short period of temporary admission. If this happens you can telephone the International Student Adviser in the International Office on +44 (0)24 7615 2152. If they are not available telephone +44 (0)24 7688 7688.
If you are unsure about what you can or cannot bring into the
UK, you should check with your local British Embassy or High
Commission before you begin your journey or the UK Customs &
Excise website (www.hmce.gov.uk - select ‘Travel Information’
and then ‘Banned and Restricted Goods’). Please note that it is
illegal to bring drugs (other than those prescribed by a doctor)
or animals into the country. The penalties for attempting to do
so are very severe.
How do I get to the UK?
If you are going to fly to the UK you can choose one of London’s
international airports, Heathrow or Gatwick. Alternatively you can
fly to Birmingham International airport, which is a 15-minute train
journey from Coventry.
The best airport to choose would be Birmingham Airport. This is because it is close to Coventry and will take less time and cost less to get to us! Most major airlines now fly to Birmingham – why not ask at the travel agency or check online for flights to Birmingham.
1
Have your passport, entry clearance document (if required) and
any necessary visa/health documents ready for inspection by an
Immigration Officer.
2
There will be two queues to go through passport control,
one for EU passport holders, one for all others.
3
If you are from a country outside the EU, when you have shown
your passport you will be asked to show proof that you have
been offered a place at Coventry University.
Show them your offer letter.
4
After passport control you can collect your luggage.
The luggage will be unloaded onto several carousel systems;
wait at the carousel that displays your flight number
and departure airport.
5
When you have retrieved your luggage you must pass through
customs. If you are from a country outside the EU you will
either have to pass through the green channel (nothing to
declare) or the red channel (goods to declare). If you are from
the EU you will pass through the blue channel as you do not
have to declare anything. The Customs Officer may ask you
to open your luggage for checking. In this situation cooperate
with the Customs Officer.
www.coventry.ac.uk/international
How to get to Coventry
Arrival Airport: Travel to Coventry by: Cost: Time to Coventry: Further details:
Birmingham Airport. The closest well served airport to Coventry. We strongly recommend arrival at this airport.
Local Bus service – ‘Number 900’
£1.70 1 hour www.travelwm.co.uk
Train from ‘Birmingham International’ station
£1.90 20 minutes on express service
www.nationalrail.co.ukTo get to the train station from the main airport terminal you should use ‘skytrain’. Ask for directions from the information desk or student helpers there during Welcome Week.
Taxi £20-30 20 minutes approx We do not recommend taking a taxi unless you arrive at an unsociable hour.
Heathrow Airport. ‘National Express’ coach service.
£29.30 2.5 hours www.nationalexpress.com
Train From £50.00 2.5 hours www.nationalrail.co.uk
Gatwick Airport. ‘National Express’ coach service.
£34 3.75 hours www.nationalexpress.com
Coventry Train station. Taxi £5-8 5 minutes
Via Central London:
We do not recommend that you try and get to Coventry via
central London especially if you have a large amount of luggage.
You will have plenty of opportunities later to visit the capital,
without your luggage.
Coventry is well-served by public transport
therefore we do not recommend that you
use a taxi to get to Coventry from Heathrow
or Gatwick as this will cost about £250 from
Heathrow airport and about £350 from
Gatwick airport.
12
13
As well as booking your accommodation, you will also need to arrange your finances before you arrive at University. It is vital that you have sufficient funding in place before commencing a course of study, this will need to cover your tuition fees, accommodation, books, stationary, food and of course social costs. You will find lots of helpful advice and important information in this section so please read it carefully.
Money Matters
Preventing Hardship:
You should not travel to the UK or begin a course without making sure that you have enough money to cover all your academic fees and living expenses. It is very difficult to make arrangements for financial support after you have left your own country. You should not rely on a part-time job in the UK to pay for your tuition fees.
Cost of Living
Below is an approximate guide to the minimum amount you
should expect for living expenses in the UK.
For your stay in the UK you will need approximately £600 per
month to cover these costs but remember that this is only a
guide. These costs are for one person only and students with
children and dependants should keep this in mind when working
out a budget.
Accommodation in halls of residence
Take a look at your Student Accommodation Brochure for more details.
Private accommodation £200-£300 per month
Bills (Electric/Gas/Water) £30-£50 per month
Food/Housekeeping £150-£200 per month (if not included)
TV Licence (mandatory with TV)
£142.50 per year
Mobile/Landline phone £30 per month
Clothes/Shoes £31 per month
Leisure/Sport £21 per month
Books/Stationery £21 per month
Socialising £103 per month
Travel/Transport‘Coventry Student Faresaver Travelcard’
£195.00 for 3 terms£78.00 per term£38.00 summer special
Childcare £500 per month
Transferring Money
If you are travelling from outside the EU you will need to declare
any sums of money of 10,000 Euros (or equivalent) or more to
HM customs. If your country restricts the amount of money you
can bring out, then you will need to begin the arrangements for
transferring money several months before your course begins.
Please note that British banks will usually make
a handling charge (allow up to £20) for receiving
incoming money from overseas, so the amount
you receive may not be the same as the amount
that was sent. Also, you should allow at least
five working days for money sent from outside
the UK to be received at the University.
If money has to be received at the University on or before a
certain date in order to qualify for a discount, check how long
it will take to arrive to ensure that we will receive it on time. We
cannot extend deadlines for discounts under any circumstances.
In addition, eligibility for a discount depends on the full sum being
received at the University so please take bank charges
into account.
You can transfer money direct to the University’s bank account
for tuition fees, accommodation, and the Pre-sessional
English course.
Any transfer of money to the University
MUST be accompanied by full details of who
the money is for (name, application reference
number, course and year), and what it is
intended to pay for. Details to:
www.coventry.ac.uk/international
14
Opening a UK Bank Account
Whilst in the UK you will need to have a bank account to ensure
that your money is kept safely and so that you can transfer money
in and out, write cheques, pay bills by standing order or direct
debit and use a cash card to buy goods or take money out from
an ATM (Automated Teller Machine).
Most major banks have branches in Coventry, many of them are located on the High Street in the city centre, just a short walk from Campus.
Here are some steps you can take to make opening a bank
account in the UK easier:
Before you leave home, find out if your bank has links with •
banks in the UK or open an account with a bank that has
branches or links in the UK. If your bank has links in the UK
you may be able to use your home account in the UK rather
than having to open a brand new account.
Make sure that you have evidence of your full overseas •
address with you in the form of official letters or bank
statements (PO Box addresses are not acceptable). Also
ensure that you have full proof of your identity, your passport
or national ID card should be sufficient. You will also need
proof that you have been accepted to study at Coventry
University, so don’t forget your acceptance letter!
Start the process of opening an account as soon as you arrive •
because it can take up to four weeks for your account to be
opened fully.
Remember Visa and Mastercards are widely acceptable in the •
UK and can be used to withdraw cash from ATMs, you can
check with your bank whether you can use these cards in the
UK before you leave home.
For further information about opening a bank account The
British Bankers Association (BBA) has produced a leaflet called
‘International students: Opening a UK bank account.’ Which
can be found by clicking on ‘publications’ then ‘leaflets’ on their
website www.bba.org.uk
Bank transfers can be sent direct from your bank to Coventry
University’s bank account, details are as follows:
Coventry University
NATWEST
24 Broadgate
Coventry CV1 1ZZ
United Kingdom
Account Number: 30688159
Sort Code: 56-00-45
Swift code: NWBKGB2L
IBAN No: GB35NWBK56004530688159
To make a payment by electronic transfer:
1) At your own bank, provide details of the account number and
address given above.
2) In ‘Bank to Bank information’ section, nominate the currency;
should be sterling.
3) In ‘Payment details’ section, give your name, application
number and what the money is for. This information will be
sent to the University.
4) You may be charged for this transaction by your bank.
You will also be charged by the UK bank.
If paying for your accommodation, tuition
and living expenses in the UK by bankers
draft, please ensure you have one draft for
accommodation and tuition made payable to
‘Coventry University’ and one draft for living
expenses made payable to yourself to deposit
in your own account in the UK after arrival. Do
not bring one draft made payable to yourself for
all above the expenses as you will not be able
to cash it in the University and will therefore not
be able to enrol here.
For further information contact:
Finance Office
Email: [email protected]
Tel: +44 2476 152255
Fax: +44 2476 152276
15
www.coventry.ac.uk/international
Bringing Money to the UK
EU cash declaration rules:
A person entering an EU country (from a non-EU
country) with over 10,000 Euros (or equivalent) will need
to declare this to HM Customs upon arrival. These new
declaration rules not only cover cash but will also apply
to those carrying bankers’ drafts and cheques.
You should not encounter any problems as long as you
can justify the need to carry this much cash, you can
explain that your funds are for university payments with
proof such as your offer letter available. We recommend
that because of these new rules you would be advised
to carry a bankers draft or cheque rather than cash
upon entry to the UK.
Insurance
We strongly advise you to insure your personal belongings against
damage or loss, particularly electronic equipment. You will be able
to obtain further advice from the Students’ Union Advice Centre
when you get here.
Please remember: It may take up to four weeks before you can fully use your bank account, so it’s best to ensure that you have enough money for your personal needs for the first few weeks of term.
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You’re finally here or at least well on your way! The following information gives guidance about living in the UK. It may be a good idea to read this section before you leave your home country, so that you are more prepared. Remember as always our welfare team are here to help with any questions that you may have about living in the UK.
Living in the UK
Coventry:
Coventry University’s modern campus covers 33 acres of ground
and is located right in the heart of the city. Coventry is the 4th
safest city in the UK* and offers great value for money. It is a
truly international city blending many cultures, communities and
lifestyles. Situated in the heart of England, it is just over an hour
away from London and 25 minutes from Birmingham City Centre
by train.
*Urban Crime Rankings 2006, compiled by the Office of National Statistics
Student Buildingcoming soon
Alan Berry
Student’sUnion
Charles Ward
George Elliot
Hillman/Humber
Priory Hall
HDTI
Design HubEnterprise Centre
Techno Centre
ICE
Sir John Laing
Sports Centre
Richard CrossmanEllen Terry
WhiteFriars
Graham Sutherland
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Maurice Foss
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Fredrick Lanchester
Student Centre
ACT UK
Futures Institute
Acua
Serious GamesInstitute
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footbridge
University building
Ringroad junction
Tourist information
Ringroad subwayaccess
principal pathwaywith wheelchair access
principal pathwaywith steps
Singer Hall
Raglan House
Trinity Point
Priory Hall
Lanchester Library
Student Centre
Alan Berry
Sports Centre
New multi-storey car park coming 2010
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www.coventry.ac.uk/international
Coping with Culture Shock:
Coming to study in a different country with a different
education system is a big challenge. At times this
can be both exciting and difficult, but hopefully it will
ultimately be a rewarding experience. Our culture is
our way of understanding our world. It is informed by
our religion, food we eat, family, political and economic
background, gender and many other factors. When we
step outside the world that we are used to, it can make
us uncomfortable and tired – we call this culture shock.
Signs of Culture Shock:
feeling upset and emotional•
feeling angry•
finding it hard to concentrate•
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Many international students experience
culture shock when they first move to the UK
and this is completely normal. In order to help
you adapt to living in the UK it is useful to have
an understanding of UK culture and your own
cultural identity.
Do not worry if you think you are experiencing culture shock. The International Student Advisers can help. Tell them how you are feeling. To help yourself, stay in touch with family and friends and try to get involved in University life, for example join a society or club or attend a social programme trip or event.
Culture Shock
Visit a UK family with HOST:
HOST is an organisation which
puts international students in
contact with British families.
With HOST you may spend
a weekend, or longer, as the
guest in a British home. The
main purpose of HOST is to
encourage friendship between different cultures by enabling
international students to experience life in Britain from a different
perspective. The families who participate in HOST are volunteers
who are interested in meeting students from different
cultural backgrounds.
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To learn more about HOST and read accounts of HOST visits
from other students please visit www.hostuk.org
In addition, you can attend our HOST social event (details of
which are to be confirmed) when a HOST representative will come
to talk about the scheme and answer your questions.
More about living in the UK – websites and further reading:
For further information about living in the UK and British
culture, please refer to the following websites:
www.ukcisa.org.uk
www.educationuk.org
www.ukstudentlife.com
www.visitcoventry.co.uk
www.visitbritain.com
www.enjoyengland.com
The following books are also very useful on UK culture
and life:
Lonely Planet: Great Britain
David Else et al. (2007)
Lonely Planet Publications
The Rough Guide to Britain 7
Robert Andrews et al. (2008)
Rough Guides Ltd
Watching the English: The Hidden Rules of
English Behaviour
Kate Fox (2008)
Hodder and Stoughton
The English: A Portrait of a People
Jeremy Paxman (2001)
Penguin Books
Notes from a Small Island
Bill Bryson (1997)
Black Swan
Thefuturelets:
‘Thefuturelets’ is the University’s very own lettings agency which
is responsible for placing students into private accommodation.
They have a variety of properties to suit everyone’s needs and
you can secure a property through them prior to your arrival if you
wish. Visit www.thefuturelets.org.uk to view properties on-line.
Alternatively you can contact the team to arrange viewings of
properties within the first few days of your arrival. You only have to
pay an administration charge of £58.75 when they place you into
accommodation.
To find out more please contact:
Tel: +44 (0)24 7679 5273
email: [email protected]
Private Accommodation
If you are not staying in University accommodation and you
choose to rent accommodation from the private sector, it can
seem quite daunting when you have just arrived in the UK. We
hope that we can give you some guidance before you arrive so
you know what to do when you get here.
In order to be able to find private accommodation before term
starts, you should aim to arrive in Coventry 1-2 weeks before
term. You can even start searching for accommodation on the
internet before you arrive in Coventry or contact ‘thefuturelets’,
but we would not recommend that you book any accommodation
before you have had a chance to see it.
University Accommodation
There is a wide variety of student accommodation in Coventry
with choice of University owned and managed halls and houses,
private halls, houses and flats.
Living in University accommodation is a great way to meet new
friends and gain a new-found independence. For most of our
students this will be their first time away from home, and we will
do our utmost to ensure that the move is as easy as possible.
Our friendly student accommodation team at Coventry University
is here to help to find the right ‘new home’ for you. Visit
www.coventry.ac.uk/accommodation and look through the
accommodation choices available and details on how to apply.
You will need to submit an on-line application form to apply for
University accommodation. You will need to have been offered
an unconditional or conditional place of study and have made
Coventry your first choice. To be able to apply online you will need
the student ID number that is shown on your academic offer letter. Student Accommodation will not process your accommodation application until all the conditions of the academic offer have been met and you have successfully obtained a relevant VISA to study in the UK. When you have obtained your VISA you MUST scan and email it to [email protected] or fax a copy to +44 (0) 24 7688 7311 so your accommodation
application can be processed. Once you have been offered
accommodation you will have 3 days to accept the offer and pay
the required £300 Advance Licence Fee.
If you do not have access to the Internet please contact
Student Accommodation:
Tel: +44 (0)24 7688 7304
Email: [email protected]
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Please remember: If you have signed a University accommodation contract or agreed to the terms and conditions on-line you cannot opt out of this contract. If you decide to leave your University accommodation you will still be bound by the contract unless you find someone else who will agree to take your room.
Pre-Sessional English Language Students:For students taking Pre-Sessional English Language courses prior to their degree programme we are able to offer a limited choice of short term University accommodation to cover the length of your English course. You need to submit an on-line application form to apply for accommodation for the 12, 8 and 4 week courses. To be able to apply on-line you will need the student ID number shown in your academic offer letter.
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www.coventry.ac.uk/international
Here is a checklist of points to remember when renting out
private accommodation:
Ensure you have documents ready.•
Landlords often require references or guarantors, often these •
will have to be UK residents. 3 months bank statements are
also often required. Bank details to set up a direct debit for
rent payment.
Make sure you have enough money to cover the deposit. The •
deposit amount is usually one month’s rent, remember that in
addition you will usually be asked to pay for the first month’s
rent, at the same time. So your first payment will be 2 months’
rent altogether. Your deposit will be held to cover the landlord
against any damage to the property whilst you are resident.
Your landlord must protect your deposit by putting it into an
authorised tenancy deposit scheme. Make sure you ask your
landlord about this. If you are not sure contact the Students’
Union Advice Centre (SUAC).
Check your tenancy agreement. Make sure you understand •
the document before you sign it. If in doubt you can check
the document with an adviser at the Students Union or the
International Office. This is very important because a housing
contract is a legal document. You will be held liable for the rent
even if you decide later that you do not want to live there.
Check the length of your agreement. Most tenancy •
agreements last 6 months. You must check your agreement
to ensure that you do not sign for more than the length of
your course.
Check your inventory. Often an ‘inventory’ or list of items in the •
accommodation is provided. You should make sure that you
inform the landlord if anything on the list is not included when
you arrive. If you do not inform your landlord of missing items
you may be liable to cover the cost of its replacement at the
end of your stay.
If you have decided to rent in the private sector it is best to
ensure that you get a chance to look around properties that
you are interested in before you sign any tenancy agreement.
We recommend that you take a look at a few properties before
you choose.
Coventry City Council operates a Landlord Accreditation Scheme.
This is to ensure that properties meet a standard set by Coventry
City Council. We recommend that you chose to rent a property
that adheres to this scheme. For more information about the
Landlord Accreditation scheme call +44 (0)24 7683 1812.
We highly recommend that you take a look at ‘Saferstudents’ guidelines. They provide a ‘Housing security checklist’ at: www.safer-students.co.uk
You can use this to make sure the property that you choose is
safe and secure.
Remember that if you ever have any queries about private accommodation you can contact either Coventry University Students Union or the International Office for further assistance.
Think very carefully before you give a
landlord or an agent any money!
You may choose to rent a room in a house with other students, or
rent a small flat with one bedroom. There are also options to lodge
within a family home or rent a bedsit (a single room with sleeping,
living and cooking facilities). The price of the accommodation that
you choose depends on the size and location of the property.
If you do not have University accommodation, please ensure that you arrive in plenty of time to find somewhere to live in the private sector. You will need to book a room in a hotel or guest house whilst you are looking.
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Council Tax
Council Tax is a government tax that pays for local services such
as rubbish collection, police, and the fire brigade. You will not
have to pay Council Tax if you live in an exempt dwelling such as
University Halls of residence or a dwelling that is occupied only by
full-time students.
However, if you share a dwelling with non-full-time students, the
household will be liable for Council Tax. As soon as your course
ends you become liable to pay council tax.
For further guidance please see the UKCISA guidance note
‘Council tax and international students’ which can be found at:
www.ukcisa.org.uk (click on ‘Advice for International Students’
then ‘Complete List of Information Sheets’ then look under
‘Financial Support’).
Health
We know that it can be a very busy time for you when you first
arrive in the UK but don’t forget to look after yourself and your
health. Here’s a brief guide that we hope will help:
The National Health Service, or NHS as it’s more commonly
known, is the UK state health service. The NHS provides medical
treatment and services for UK residents. Some services are free
whilst there are others that you will have to pay for.
If your course lasts for six months or more you, and your
dependants, up to 16 years of age or 19 if in full time education,
are entitled to government funded medical treatment on the same
basis as UK residents. This includes free emergency treatment
and free consultation with a Doctor. You will pay a subsidised
amount for medical prescriptions (£7.20 in March 2010), dental
treatment and opticians. Dental treatment can be quite expensive
so you should ensure that you are treated as an NHS patient.
EEA nationals:
If you are a European Economic Area national studying in the UK
for less than six months, you and your family should fill out form
E128 in your country of residence, or bring your European Health
insurance card with you to the UK. This form entitles you and your
family to full NHS treatment on the same basis as students who
are studying for more than six months.
Please remember: It is important that you register with a doctor as soon as you arrive in the UK. You will have an opportunity to register at our campus Medical Centre on your arrival.
The NHS direct website (www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk) is an excellent
resource to locate doctors, dentists, opticians and pharmacists in
the UK. The site also offers a self help guide to suggest what to
do if you do become unwell. The NHS direct helpline (0845 46 47)
offers a 24 hrs health advice line. While in the UK the number for
all emergency services is 999 or 112.
www.coventry.ac.uk/international
Police Registration
You may receive a stamp in your passport requiring you to
‘Register with the Police within 7 days of arrival’. There is no
police registration office in Coventry. The nearest office is in
Birmingham. It is a legal requirement that you register if you are
told to do so. Failure to register is a criminal offence and could
lead to prosecution so please be aware that it is a very important
matter. Any family members who have the requirement to register
stamped in their passport must also personally register with the
police. The International Office can give you directions to enable
you to get there yourself.
If there are more than 50 students needing to register with the
Police, the International Office can arrange for West Midlands
Police to come to the campus to register students. Further details
will be given at enrolment.
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To register you will need:
Your passport
The fee – £34 cash (March 2010). A one off
payment (unless you lose your certificate)
The appropriate registration form
(available from the International Office)
Two recent colour passport sized photographs
Proof of UK address
Proof that you are a student
(offer or enrolment letter)
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Countries who joined the EU May 2004:Nationals from the following new member states: Poland, Lithuania, Estonia, Latvia, Slovenia, Slovakia, Hungary and the Czech Republic:
In order to work you need to register with the Home Office under
the new ‘Worker Registration Scheme’. You can obtain further
details of this scheme from the following link:
www.ind.homeoffice.gov.uk/workingintheuk/eea/wrs
For more information on the work rules for international students
you can find a guidance note called ‘Working in the UK during
your studies’ on the UKCISA website: www.ukcisa.org.uk or the
Home Office website: www.ind.homeoffice.gov.uk
Finding part-time work in the UK:
Coventry University’s ‘thefutureworks’ based at the Students
Union provides all students with help finding work. For part-time
work you can also find advertisements in local newspapers such
as The Coventry Evening Telegraph and The Coventry Citizen and
at the Job Centre which is close to campus in the city centre.
For more information please ask at the International Office
for further advice once you have settled into the city and
the University. Visit the website for more information:
www.thefutureworks.org.uk
Can my spouse/civil partner work or study?
If your spouse/Civil partner is here as your dependant they can
study full-time OR part-time unlike you. They will be subject to the
same fee assessment rules as you.
Provided you have been given permission to remain in the UK
for at least 12 months your dependant spouse will be allowed to
work. You should ensure that they do not receive any restrictions
(a ‘prohibition’) on employment in their passport stamp.
Please Remember: Although part-time work can assist you with living costs, you cannot depend on these earnings to pay your tuition fees. Furthermore you will not be able to obtain a student visa by basing your income on work that you do in the UK.
Working in the UK
Students who needed entry clearance:
If you had to obtain entry clearance before you arrived in the UK
your visa stamp will include the words ‘work (and any changes)
must be authorised’, this means you can work up to 20 hours
per week during term-time and full-time during your vacation
period. You can not be self-employed, work as a sports person
or entertainer, or pursue a career by taking a permanent full-time
vacancy. You may take up a ‘sandwich’ (work) placement if it is a
requirement of your course.
If you are coming to the UK on a Tier 4 (General) visa to study a
course below degee level and it is not a Foundation degree, the
maximum you can work during term time is for 10 hours per week.
EEA, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Swiss nationals:
You are free to work in the UK without having to request
permission. But please remember that your studies should come
first! Try not to work too many hours so that you can concentrate
on your course!
Countries who joined the EU January 2007:Nationals of Romania and Bulgaria: Yellow Registration Certificate (BR1 Form)
You will need to apply for permission to work in the UK while you
are studying. To do this you need to complete a form that must
be sent to the Home Office. You will then be granted permission
to work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time
during the vacation period. You will also be able to take up a work
placement if you are on a sandwich course. To find out more
about how you need to register please go to:
www.ind.homeoffice.gov.uk/workingintheuk/eea/
bulgariaromania
www.coventry.ac.uk/international
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Working after your Studies:
All International graduates are able to apply for 2 years further
leave to stay in the UK to work. This scheme is called the
‘Post-Study Work’ scheme and will benefit you greatly. If you
successfully complete your course of study in the UK you will then
have the opportunity to use your skills, gain experience and earn
money at a company or organisation in the UK.
This 2 year period is your chance to make an impression at your
company. Before the end of the 2 years you will be able to ask the
company whether they would like to keep you on under the UK
Work Permit scheme.
The Welfare team at the International Office can give you more
advice about the Post Study Work scheme when you arrive in the
UK. You will also have an opportunity to meet with a member of
our careers team who can give you more information about how
and where to find work in the UK.
In the meantime you can find out more about the scheme by
going to the Home Office website and finding the Post-Study
Work scheme page under:
www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/workingintheuk/tier1/poststudy
If you have any queries please contact our International Student
Advisers at: [email protected]
Support to International Students
The International Welfare team, located in the student centre helps over 100 international students a week.
The welfare team is based in the International Office located in
the Student Centre, open throughout the year from Monday to
Friday. The normal office hours are 9:00am-4:30pm except on
Wednesdays when the Centre is open 11:00pm-4:30pm. We
are devoted solely to international students and have met many
students with problems or questions similar to yours.
Throughout your time at Coventry the welfare team is here to
help you. Whether you just want to chat, have questions about
employment regulations, accommodation, immigration, finance
or travel, we are here to help.
They help international students with:
• UKvisasandimmigration
• Policeregistration
• AdviceworkingintheUKduringandafterstudies
• Socialprogrammeandtrips
• Tuitionfeespaymentplans
• ReferraltoothersupportserviceswithintheUniversity
• Andanyotherproblemsthatyoumayhave
International Office social programme:
The International Office offers a very popular social programme.
These activities are a great way to meet new people and a cost
effective way to see other parts of the UK.
While you are in the UK most of your time will be taken up with
studying, however, it is important not to become isolated in your
bedroom with your books! The aim is to take you to parts of the
country that are of interest or show British culture.
You’ll be able to find out more about these trips when you arrive
through our free “trips” booklet or through the student portal
(an online community for students).
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www.coventry.ac.uk/international
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Kavita CassidyHead of International Student Support“I lead the Welfare Team at the International Office and have worked in the team since January 2006. I manage the team to ensure that we work together to assist international students before their arrival, during their studies and after they graduate.
I previously worked as an immigration solicitor. My experience of working in the welfare team and meeting international students for the last 3 ½ years, has given me a wealth of knowledge about what an international student needs to have an exceptional experience of life in the UK during their time at Coventry University.”
James MoranInternational Student Adviser“I have a background in immigration law and joined the welfare team at the end of September 2009. Within my role I help international students with any problems they may have in regard to visas, finance and many other areas. I studied History and
Chinese Studies at the Universities of Nottingham and Sheffield and am able to speak a bit of Mandarin Chinese. Since I started at Coventry I have met many international students from as far apart as China and Bulgaria and have very much enjoyed the experience so far!”
Laura WrightInternational Student Co-ordinator“I joined the welfare team as the International Student Co-ordinator in September 2009, just in time for the September enrolment. Since this time I have learnt a lot about Coventry University and its international students. My job is very varied, which I
really enjoy. I organise the social programme for our international students which includes day trips to cities around the UK and wednesday trips to places which are closer to Coventry. In the next term we will be visiting Edinburgh, Oxford and Alton Towers to name just a few. Please see the trips booklet for more information. I also see students about welfare needs relating to post-study work applications, visa extensions, general queries and tier 4 visa compliance. I hope that you make the most of your time in the UK and I hope to see you on one of the trips!”
Contact us:Email: [email protected] us: We are based in the Student Centre
As well as the International Office you will be supported by a
range of expert services at the University. Below is an outline of
just a few of these services and how to contact them:
Careers & Enterprise Service:
The Careers Service has a team of advisers who are available
to help all students on a wide range of issues. These issues
include: Choosing the right course and understanding the career
implications of your choice, understanding the local job market
and strategies for getting a part time job, finding a short term
or ‘sandwich’ year placement, deciding which careers might
suit you and be available to you and developing an action plan,
understanding the national and international graduate jobs market
and what employers are looking for, developing a high quality CV,
completing application forms and preparing for interviews.
Contact:
Tel: +44 (0)24 7615 2030
Email: [email protected]
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Support for international students at the Lanchester Library:
The Library offers a rolling programme of three sessions to
international students: a library induction, an introduction to the
library catalogue and an introduction to electronic resources.
In addition, one-to-one support is available via the relevant
subject librarian or the librarian with responsibility for international
students. Students arriving to study English before their degree
are offered similar support. For more information go to
www.coventry.ac.uk/cu/library
www.coventry.ac.uk/international
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The Centre for Academic Writing:
The Centre for Academic Writing (CAW) offers workshops, one-to-
one tutorials, and a range of useful resources to support student
writers. Call in to CAW when you arrive at Coventry, or visit us
virtually at www.coventry.ac.uk/caw. Once at Coventry, you
can also download materials or book a session at CAW via the
student Portal. We promote strategies for enhancing your writing
by offering you new techniques for researching, planning, and
revising your academic texts.
The Counselling Service:
Counselling is an opportunity to work with someone professionally
trained who will help you explore the thoughts, feelings and
behaviours that are causing you difficulties. No matter how small
or big you think the problem is you may share your burden with a
counsellor who will help you move forward. For more information
please go to: www.coventry.ac.uk/counselling
The Spirituality and Faith Centre:
It is a space for social gathering, hospitality and quiet reflection
serviced by a team of chaplains from a variety of chaplains from a
variety of faiths and traditions. For more information please go to:
www.coventry.ac.uk/cu/health/spirituality
Welfare and Disability Support:
Coventry University welcomes students with disabilities. Our
disability office is based in Priory Halls of Residence and has
a team of 12 staff with various specialisms including Mental
Health, Dyslexia and Physical and Sensory Disabilities. For more
information email [email protected]
International Welcome Week - £160Orientation Programme, 20th – 24th September 2010The first few days and weeks in a new place can be an exciting
period of adjustment. It is important to get yourself off to a good
start. The International Office runs a 5 day residential orientation
programme called International Welcome Week. This is the best
way to adjust to your new life at Coventry University. The student
feedback from previous Welcome Week programmes shows
that students enjoyed the week immensely and they would
recommend it to their friends.
There is a mix of information, social events opportunities for you
to get to know other international students, the University and City
before the UK students arrive. For example, you will also be able
to register with the doctor and have an introduction to the library.
There will be talks from departments such as the Students’ Union
and Student Services, to give you an insight into University life
and how to make the most of your time here. Equally as important
are the numerous social events at which you will be able to meet
many other new international students. There are events during
the day, such as the City Quiz, 5-a-side football competitions
and day trips. In addition, on each night throughout International
Welcome Week there will be activities such as, the Barn Dance,
Karaoke and the ever popular International Party.
All these events are a great way to learn about the University, find
your way around Coventry and make new friends. The new UK
students do not arrive until the following week, so for the duration
on International Welcome Week you will have exclusive use of all
of Coventry University’s facilities.
International Welcome Week costs £160 and includes:
Six nights accommodation (Saturday – Thursday nights •inclusive) in Priory HallBreakfast from Sunday to Friday•Evening meals from Monday to Thursday•A complimentary bedding pack consisting of a pillow, •single duvet and bed sheet, which you may keep after Welcome WeekEnrolment and collection of ID cards•Day trip to Birmingham•All sports and social events during the week•All presentations, workshops and tours•
Places for Welcome Week are limited and they will be allocated on a first-come, first served basis.
There is no temporary University accommodation available before
Saturday 18th September so you should avoid arriving before that
date. If however, your arrival before that date is unavoidable, then
you should contact the Coventry Tourist Information Centre on
Tel: 0044 (0)24 7622 7264/7266. They provide a free service to
book rooms.
To book your place you need to visit our website and book online.
Your application must be received by Friday 27th August 2010.
Any questions, please email [email protected]
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www.coventry.ac.uk/international
Airport pick up service from Heathrow and Birmingham
Coventry University offers airport pick up services from Heathrow
and Birmingham International Airports for international students
on the weekend of Saturday 25th September and Sunday 26th
September. Coaches collect newly arrived students and their
luggage, from the airports and transport them to the University.
Staff and student helpers will be at the Meeting Point to greet
students on arrival – look out for their Coventry University student
ambassador t-shirts and the Coventry University banner.
For details of costs and how to book please visit the Coventry
University website, go to the online store and select international
students.
Please note that for students who are taking part in International
Welcome Week the cost of the airport pick up is included in the
overall Welcome Week cost.
Students starting in September
To reserve a place please fill in your full flight details online. Online
bookings will be available from Summer 2010.
Exact details for the induction period are still to be confirmed but are likely to consist of airport pick-ups, social events, tours of the city and campus and information and accommodation talks and fairs.
Student feedback:
In my view Welcome Week was a key
moment for starting the term at Coventry
Uni, since it was a great opportunity for me
to meet loads of news students who were in
the same situation as me (which is good if you
are looking for housemates). In the same way
if you do not know anything about life in this
marvellous city or about Coventry University,
it is a very good way to catch up.
Welcome Week will enable the international
students to get familiar not only with the
environment but will also help them to meet
people from different countries & of different
origins. This get-together will boost the morale
of the international students & the feeling of
self- confidence is generated.
[Staff are] Friendly and kind, they keep
smiling…and made people feel warm when
they saw them.
International Induction
Induction
The majority of new students will be arriving over the weekend of
Saturday 25th and Sunday 26th September. Information desks
will be manned by second and third year students who will be
easily identifiable by their brightly coloured t-shirts. You will find
information about the services the University has to offer and
about the local attractions, shops and entertainment on offer in
Coventry.
To help you get your bearings, we will be running campus tours
which last approx 30 minutes. You will need to sign up at one of
the information desks.
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Pre-Sessional English Language Students:
For students arriving to attend Pre-Sessional English Language courses you will be contacted directly with arrival, induction and enrolment details.
If your course does not start on 27th September 2010 your
induction programme will vary. You will be sent details of when
and where you need to report separately.
A comprehensive Induction is provided for all new students,
international and UK. It gives you the opportunity to get settled
in and familiarise yourself with the campus, your School and
your course before our existing students return and term begins
properly. If your course starts in September you will attend a
week-long programme beginning on Monday 27th September
2010. On the first day you will meet your course tutor and be
given a timetable for the week. Make sure you attend all the
activities on your timetable and to get the best out of the week
and ensure you receive all of the necessary information. You
will also be given your Student Diary which will be full of useful
information about the University to help you throughout your
time here.
February Orientation and Induction Programme:
Our induction for January/February 2011 has not yet been
fully planned. However do not worry! You will be sent further
information about your arrival in the UK closer to the time.
Enrolment
This year overseas enrolment will be a combination of manual
and online enrolment. Further details will be sent to you by email
nearer the time. It is therefore imperative that you have given
us an email address and that it is correct and working.
Please note that at enrolment manual checks by International
Office staff will be made on your passport, visa, original
qualifications and whether 66% or full fees have been paid.
Please note: It is very important that you pay 66% of your fees before you enrol. You will not be enrolled until 66% of your full fee amount has been paid.
www.coventry.ac.uk/international
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International OfficeCoventry UniversityPriory StreetCoventryCV1 5FB, United Kingdom
Telephone: +44 (0) 24 7615 2152
Fax: +44 (0) 24 7615 2175
Website: www.coventry.ac.uk/international