• Check 'Entry Stamp' on arrivalLink opens in a new window: when you are at the Border Control, check your passport has been stamped. If you are using the 'e-Gate', make sure you keep your boarding pass - you will need this to complete enrolment.
• Visit Senate House: to collect your Student I.D. card if you’re living off campus. Also, if you need the University to sign a sponsor form, have any issues with campus accommodation, or need an ink stamp for your 'student status letter', our Student Information Centre is there to help you.
  • Note: incoming exchange students should check the guidance from the Student Mobility team.
• Get a UK phone number: most airports and supermarkets offer pre-paid SIM cards, including the Tesco in Cannon Park Centre Superstore near campus.
• Attend your Right to Study check appointment: this is mandatory for all non-UK and non-Irish students with a time-limited visa, before you can start your course.
• Enrolment Dashboard tasksLink opens in a new window: follow the instructions to register with the Health Centre, pay fees, and complete the Student Conduct online course.
• Student Admin: find out how to register for your modules, pay your fees, keep your student records up to date, and timetabling. Check your Course Handbook for information related to your academic department and studies.
• Download a Certificate of Status letter: First, check and update your Student Records OnlineLink opens in a new window with your UK address and UK phone number. You can then download this letter. This is proof of your student status and you may need it for a number of reasons - for example, to open a UK bank account, or to apply for Council Tax exemption if you live off-campus.

If you need space to reflect in the midst of a busy academic life, you can find it at the ChaplaincyLink opens in a new window.

It's a place of safety, care and encounter. The Chaplaincy is available for absolutely anyone who would appreciate peaceful spaces and the support of the Chaplains: whether you belong to a particular religion, faith or belief, none at all or if you’re asking questions. You are all welcome.

If you have a particular religion, faith, or belief, the Chaplaincy team are able to help you meet with others who share your tradition and who can offer you support and companionship on campus. They can also help you connect to groups in the wider community.

• New student IT guideLink opens in a new window: from setting up your IT account to connect to campus wifi and prepare your laptop for studying.
• Download the MyWarwick appLink opens in a new window: If you haven't managed to download it before travelling, once you have completed course registration, you will be able to download and log in to the app. It provides quick access to many useful features such as your Welcome Week Timetable (if your course starts in autumn term), other events on campus, bus timetables, your study timetable, library spaces etc.
• Other apps to download: these are commonly used by our current students and should make your life easier!
• Welcome Week:Link opens in a new window this usually takes place the week before the term start dateLink opens in a new window in the Autumn Term. If you start in-year, watch some of the recorded Welcome Talks and go on self-directed tours of campus, Coventry city centre and Leamington Spa town centre.

• Open a UK Bank Account: hopefully you have researched your options before you travelled, and you should have a pretty good idea on what to do! The bank card/ travel card you brought to campus should remain useful for the first few weeks. A digital banking card is increasingly popular, and many students have both a traditional bank account and a digital bank account. If you are unsure, make sure to read the tips from our current students.

The University prioritises safety and security for all students.

• Avoid ScamsLink opens in a new window: be aware of online scams targeting international students and know what steps to take if you fall victim to a scam. Remember:

• • Government authorities do not use phone calls to ask for payment. They usually send a letter to your home.
  • If you receive a phone call asking for money or giving threatening messages, even if they say they are calling from an Embassy and your phone displays a matching phone number, just hang up. It's most likely a scam.
  • If you received messages from a delivery company such as Royal Mail asking for payment for re-deliveryLink opens in a new window, it may be a scam.
  • If it is visa/Immigration related, hang up and if feel worried, talk to our Visa team, no matter how scared the caller may have made you feel.
    • Quite often, scammers may have some of your personal, passport or visa information and say they have some evidence of you being involved in fraudulent activity, and will cancel your visa or biometric residence permit. They may say they will transfer the call to a police station in your home country. Once your call is transferred, they may say you are the suspect of a criminal investigation. During the call, they will ask a lot of personal questions. They may ask you to verify the caller's phone number as displayed on your screen against the official website. They may ask you not to contact anyone and not to hang up. This is a scam - just hang up.
    • Read the Home Office guidanceLink opens in a new window on how to stay safe against common fraud, tricks and scams.
  • NHS treatment is free of charge if you hold a Student Visa, including a medical note or fit noteLink opens in a new window if you are ill for more than 7 days (some doctors would charge a small admin fee if you are unwell for shorter periods, for example, £30).

• Stay safe advice in ChineseLink opens in a new window: Our local Police Liaison Officer and Constable Tan have prepared this presentation for our Chinese community.
  • You can also download our Scam leaflet in ChineseLink opens in a new window.
• Policing in the UKLink opens in a new window; Contact the police if you encounter any suspicious activity and ensure prompt reporting of any crimes.
• Community Safety TeamLink opens in a new window: is committed to safeguarding, offering round-the-clock on-campus support and assistance.
• Report and SupportLink opens in a new window: is here if you ever feel unsafe, due to experiencing or witnessing harassment or other socially unacceptable behaviour.

Want to find out more about general British culture and what services are like in the UK?

• This resourceLink opens in a new windowLink opens in a new window covers things like British mentality, UK restaurant culture, advice on UK stores and online shopping, UK weather, national holidays in the UK and popular landmarks to visit! You can also find the same resource translated in ChineseLink opens in a new windowLink opens in a new window, and in RussianLink opens in a new windowLink opens in a new window.

• This resourceLink opens in a new windowLink opens in a new windowLink opens in a new window covers things like different services in the UK such as hairdressers, barbers, gyms and sports centres, and other beauty services. This is also available in ChineseLink opens in a new windowLink opens in a new window.
• These were created by International students for International students as part of a research project.

Here are some tips that can help you adapt to the new culture and assist you in settling in.

• Homesickness: learn a few tips to manage homesickness when you feel it.
• Survival skills: it might be your first time having to manage a budget, rent a room or cook your own meal all the time!
• Cultural transitionLink opens in a new window: hopefully the International Student Success course you completed before leaving home has prepared you, but it may still take time to adapt:
  • Weather - unpredictable. It gets dark early in the winter, changes to summer time in June.
  • Shop opening hours - On Sundays and Bank Holidays, shops generally open for shorter periods (usually 10am - 4pm) than at other times in the week.
  • Cash is less common - a lot of shops do not accept cash (this includes Warwick - we are a cashless campus!)
• Your Course Handbook: this contains a lot of important information such as who to contact in your department (both academic and support services), who does what in your department, must-knows in the first a few weeks, attendance requirements, course information, exam and assessment and academic procedures etc..

Warwick also offers various ways for students to interact with new people and indulge in different opportunities. Engaging in some of these activities will surely keep you occupied and help you develop useful skills.

• Welcome Week - if you arrive between 19 - 29 September 2024.
• Warwick Presents Calendar of events
• Student's Union EventsLink opens in a new window
• SocietiesLink opens in a new window
• Sports ClubsLink opens in a new window
• Warwick Sport
• EsportsLink opens in a new window

• Obtaining a CASLink opens in a new window - you can request a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) once you accept an unconditional offer, usually 3-4 months before your course start date. You need this for your Student visa application.
• Apply for a Student VisaLink opens in a new window - including timing, costs (visa and Immigration Health Surcharge), requirements (Tuberculosis test, financial evidence etc.) and how to fill out the application form.
• New student FAQ - covers all the visa related questions you may have before leaving home.

Good to know:

• Career Support for International StudentsLink opens in a new window - If you are on a 1-year Master's degree, your time at Warwick will be fast paced. Read our tailored advice about UK job market and what you can do up to 3 months before you arrive.
• Graduate route visaLink opens in a new window - the 2-year post study work visa (3-year for PhD graduates) if you have a Student Visa.

Here is some helpful guidance when it comes to healthcare while in University.

• Accessing HealthcareLink opens in a new window: how to use the National Health Service (NHS) in the UK.
• University Health CentreLink opens in a new window: register with the Health Centre if you live on campus, or a nearby GPLink opens in a new window (General Practitioner).

• Remember, NHS treatment is free if you hold a Student Visa, and you should never be charged for a medical note or fit noteLink opens in a new window if you are ill for more than 7 days (some GP would charge a small admin fee if you are unwell for shorter periods, for example, £30).

• Find a dentist or pharmacy, and how to access the NHSLink opens in a new window (National Health Service)
• Talk to Warwick Disability ServicesLink opens in a new window: if you have a pre-existing medical condition or a disability so that they can offer you personalised advice.

Learn about the public services available to you in case of emergency

• Out of hours healthcare servicesLink opens in a new window
• When to call 999 for life-threatening emergencyLink opens in a new window

If you are seeking help with health and wellbeing, here are some useful links:

• Warwick Wellbeing Support ServicesLink opens in a new window: counselling, disability support, emotional support, classes, drop in, appointments, self-help resources
• Warwick Student’s Union Advice ServiceLink opens in a new window: personal issues, dispute with landlords, council tax issues, course related problems etc.
• NightlineLink opens in a new window: a student-run, confidential, and non-judgmental peer-to-peer support listening service
• Mental health support in the UKLink opens in a new window

• UK Educational SystemLink opens in a new window: a resource created by International students for International students as part of a research project. There is also a version translated in RussianLink opens in a new window.
• Understand what is plagiarism and how to avoid itLink opens in a new window: your course handbook will give more information about your department's policy.
• Warwick LibraryLink opens in a new window: is open to all and contact your Academic Support LibrarianLink opens in a new window if you need subject specific support.
• UG and PG student training programmesLink opens in a new window: online and live training to help you develop your academic and related skills.
• Talk to your Personal TutorLink opens in a new window: they can offer guidance on your academic experience and development, and signpost you to any departmental skills sessions.
• Be Well, Learn WellLink opens in a new window: Use this resource bank to develop your own strategy to manage your time and study, and stay motivated.

If you are a postgraduate student:

• Be part of the Postgraduate CommunityLink opens in a new window: there are dedicated support and study space for our postgraduate taught and research students.
• Join the Research Development Online MS TeamLink opens in a new window: for our research students to connect with other research students on and off campus.

The University is always there to help you out. If you have any concerns about your study, contact your academic department without any hesitation!

• English Language Support:Link opens in a new window In-sessional English classes are available if you want to elevate your academic English skills.
• Join the Language SocietyLink opens in a new window: enrich your University experience and expand your language skills while making friends and enjoying a variety of engaging activities.

Key message: unlike some other universities, Coventry and surrounding areas is lucky to have many rooms available for students. Whilst it's always a good idea to plan early, even if you are late, there is no need to panic and especially don't rush when making a decision.

Your options:

• On-campus accommodationLink opens in a new window - the vast majority of first year Undergraduate students prefer to live on campus, and we usually have a number of accommodation blocks on campus reserved for postgraduate students each year. We recommend postgraduates keep checking the booking portal for live availability if no rooms are showing, as rooms tend to be released back to the booking system if they become available.
• Planning to live off-campus? Check out our Living Off Campus Guide.

A few more words about off-campus accommodation...

There are mainly two types of off-campus accommodation:

• Off-campus Purpose-build Student Accommodation (PBSAs) -
  • There are many private providers for this option in Coventry and so you have many choices. We cannot recommend any provider, so set your budget and do your research carefully.
  • Check out the top tips from our current student, Ruixin or Nia's experience if you are on a budget.
• House shareLink opens in a new window - this is when you rent a house from a private landlord with 3-4 friends. It is also known as 'Student Homes'.
  • Don't know where to start? Check out the top tips from our current student, Shuangting.
  • Paying deposits and payment termsLink opens in a new window: if you rent from a landlord, you are usually asked to pay a deposit before arriving in the UK. You will then need to pay the first year accommodation fees upfront in full within an agreed timeframe after arrival (e.g., one month), or, provide a UK Guarantor (if paying rent monthly) - you can use private companies such as Housing Hand to act as your guarantor (for a fee).
  • Signing a contractLink opens in a new window: most student contracts are for a fixed term without a break clause - this means that once you have signed it, you will have to pay the whole rent for the fixed term even if you change your mind.
  • Council taxLink opens in a new window: if you hold a student visa, you are likely to be exempt from paying council tax during your registration period, however, you may need to apply for exemption. If you will arrive before your 'course start date', remember to complete course registration before your accommodation contract start date.
  • Right to rentLink opens in a new window - your landlord will ask for proof of your immigration permission so that they can verify your right to rent directly with the UKVI.
• Can't decide? See what our current student Diya saysLink opens in a new window and ask any questions!

Good to know:

• If you are going to study a Foundation or Undergraduate course, you can apply for on-campus accommodation once you receive an offer (conditional or unconditional)
• If you are going to study a Postgraduate course, you can apply for on-campus accommodation once you accept an unconditional offer.
• If you wish to use the University's search portal for private housing (Warwick StudentpadLink opens in a new window) you can request access once you accept an unconditional offer.
• Read our 'stay safe - accommodation tips' Link opens in a new windowto avoid scammers.

• Reading list - if there is any course specific reading list, your academic department will inform you in their pre-arrival communication.
• International Student SuccessLink opens in a new window - is an online course helping international students adapt to living and studying in the UK, understand UK culture, succeed in British academic culture and develop wellness strategies. We highly recommend that you complete the course before leaving home (4 modules, 2-4 hours).
• Understanding British academic terms - staff at universities sometimes take it granted that you automatically know all the terminologies we use, for example, seminar, learning outcomes, modules and assessment. As you prepare to start your journey, take an afternoon to read this handy guide about what particular term means, the roles of different university staff, and information on teaching, learning and assessment practice in the UK.
• Pre-sessional English courseLink opens in a new window - is offered in the summer and can clear your offer condition and boost your academic English and study skills.

Learn about arranging finances and insurance before you leave home.

• Knowing the cost - check the course feesLink opens in a new window and living costs in the UKLink opens in a new window. Student visa application cost and Immigration Health SurchargeLink opens in a new window also need to be paid upfront when you apply for your visa.
• FlywireLink opens in a new window - use 'Flywire Open Portal' if you wish to pay your tuition fees deposit, tuition fees, or campus accommodation fees before completing course registration.
• Paying course feesLink opens in a new window - you have the option to pay in full or in 3 instalments (50% due on course start date). If you choose to pay by instalment, you will need to enter your payment details before each payment due date.
• Bring a bank card or travel card to the UKLink opens in a new window - the University does not accept cash, so remember to bring a bank card (or a travel card) to the UK (we recommend a 'contactless' card). Research your options about opening a UK bank account as early as possible.
• Basics about banking in the UKLink opens in a new window - this resource is also available translated in RussianLink opens in a new window. This was created by International students for International students as part of a research project.
• Travel Insurance - this is not mandatory but you may wish to get this for your travel and/or for your possessions once in the UK.
• Health InsuranceLink opens in a new window - this is not mandatory. If you hold a Student Visa, you will have paid the Immigration Health Surcharge and so will be entitled to free medical treatment (NHS) while studying in the UK (to the same level as a UK citizen). However, health insurance might be helpful to cover other medical related costs, or, gain quicker access to private medical care (there is often a long wait for NHS treatment, sometimes many months).

If you hold a Student Visa, your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) expires on 31 December 2024 and you will need to apply for an e-Visa.

We have collated a list of FAQs about how you can show Proof of Age when you no longer have a physical card.

1. My physical BRP is expiring on 31st December. Can I still use it as proof of age?

No, once your BRP expires, it is no longer a valid form of identification. You will need to use an alternative form of ID to prove your age when purchasing age-restricted items (such as alcohol or in some shops, energy drinks) or entering age-restricted venues (such as night clubs).

2. What can I use to prove my age instead of my BRP?

There are several valid forms of ID you can use as proof of age after your BRP expires:

• A valid Passport
• A UK Driving Licence (including a provisional driving licence)
• A PASS (Proof of Age) Card. You can apply for one through providers like Post Office PASS card, or CitizenCard.
• A TOTUM Card: this is a Student Discount card which features the PASS hologram

3. How do I apply for a PASS card?

You can apply for a PASS card online. You will need to provide:

• Proof of your identity (such as a passport or driving licence).
• A passport-style photo.
• A fee (usually £15 for standard service).

Once approved, your PASS card will be delivered, and you can use it to prove your age at any store or venue that accepts the PASS hologram.

Take a look at a blogLink opens in a new window for a deeper insight into the process.

Feast, sip and celebrate with your new friends!

• Eating on campus;Link opens in a new window SU Food & DrinkLink opens in a new window; from quick bites to sit-down meals, experience the flavours of Warwick. Find your community paradise in our epic on-campus restaurants, bars and cafes! Hit the link to look for plenty of places on campus.
• Craving a Taste of Home? Explore local eateries offering global flavours: whether you're missing the rich spices of Indian curries, the comforting taste of Chinese dumplings, the vibrant zest of Mexican tacos, or the aromatic goodness of Turkish kebabs, Coventry and Leamington Spa have an array of international restaurants to satisfy your home-food cravings. Just search on google to check out more. Read about our current students' favourite places to eat in CoventryLink opens in a new window.
• Warwick Arts CentreLink opens in a new window; creativity lives here! Dive into a world of art, music, and theatre. Find tickets for various shows, movies and performances at the UK's one of the largest arts centres.
• Explore the local areaLink opens in a new window: such as Coventry, Birmingham, Kenilworth, Leamington Spa and Stratford.
• UK cultural attractions;Link opens in a new window channel your inner tourist: discover the UK’s glittering cultural crown jewels!
• Travelling outside of the UK: explore the visa requirementLink opens in a new window for travelling to Europe and our top tips for travelling abroadLink opens in a new window!

Basics about shopping in the UK:

• This resourceLink opens in a new window can help you develop a basic understanding of shopping options for groceries, food delivery, kitchen and homeware, medicine and cosmetics, clothing and stationary in the UK. You can also find the same resource translated in ChineseLink opens in a new window. It was created by International students for International students as part of a research project.

You'll find a diverse range of stores catering to your shopping needs on campus, for example:

• Eat Drink Shop;Link opens in a new window From groceries to pharmacies, these resources provide comprehensive information on shopping options.
• Package Receiving and Collection ServicesLink opens in a new window
• Cannon Park Shopping CentreLink opens in a new window; Explore numerous shops located in this nearby shopping centre for your convenience.
• Cost of living in Coventry;Link opens in a new window Get a detailed insight into the cost of living in Coventry.

Money saving tips:

• UNiDAYSLink opens in a new window; Sign up for UNiDAYS to access exclusive student discounts on top brands for clothing, tech, and more.
• Money MattersLink opens in a new window; develop skills to manage money, save money or make money during studies!

Navigate like a local! Your complete guide to getting around campus and beyond.

• Interactive Campus MapLink opens in a new window never get lost again! Discover the campus with our interactive map at your fingertips. Need to view accessible routes around campus? Head to the campus map and hit the "directions" arrow, then toggle "Step-Free" and the map will calculate a step-free route to wherever you need to go.
• Travelling to and from campusLink opens in a new window; TaxisLink opens in a new window; BusesLink opens in a new window; seize your day, seize your ride! From taxis to buses, we’ve mapped out your quickest routes if you are living outside campus in Coventry, Leamington Spa or Birmingham.
• Student Bus Pass - National ExpressLink opens in a new window (for regular services to Coventry and less frequent services to Kenilworth and Leamington);
• Student Bus Pass - StagecoachLink opens in a new window(for regular services to Leamington). Don't forget to get a Student Bus Pass to save money! It's important to make sure you buy a pass from provider covering the route you wish to use.
• CyclingLink opens in a new window; Car parks on campusLink opens in a new window; Local TravelLink opens in a new window Link opens in a new windowCycle lanes, parking spots, and local jaunts - get to know how to move locally, sustainably!
• Driving in the UK; Link opens in a new windowshift gears like a Pro! All you need to know about driving licenses and driving rules in the UK!

MyWarwick: is the information hub for current students. Check out resources to enhance your learning experience, explore life at Warwick, discover academic, emergency and wellbeing support, and see how you can provide feedback to help the University do even better!

• Student Admin: find out how to register for your modules, pay your fees, keep your student records up to date, and timetabling.
• Academic Support
• Emergency support
• Wellbeing Support
• Support for Doctoral research students

We offer visa support throughout your studies until 6 months after your graduation.

• Knowledge Centre: this contains information relevant both during studies and as you prepare to graduate.
• BRP expire on 31/12/2024? Find guidance on how to apply for an e-Visa.
• Can't find your BRP card? Don't panic, read the step-by-step guidance and seek support if you are unsure.
• Changes in your circumstances? We offer comprehensive support for any changes, e.g., course change, resit exam, extension, withdrawal etc., including a link to a specific request forms.

Gain experience and career support:

• Career support for international students: read tailored advice about job application timeline, visa pathways, part time work during studies, and essential information about working in the UK.
• Part time work: discover local vacancies from organisations/ employers such as UnitempsLink opens in a new windowLink opens in a new window or the Student Union 
• Sign up to MyAdvantage: to search for vacancy, browse job fairs and book appointments for career guidance and help with job application.
• Warwick Volunteers: give back, skill up! Volunteering opportunities to make your CV dazzle.

Visa information:

• What kind of work you can do during studies: help you understand the 'work condition' of your Student Visa
• Working during studies: provides guidance on what a Student Visa holder needs to know when engaging with work whilst studying
• Understand your post-study work visa options for different career choices: explore the various options in relation to your career plan

• Warwick Presents: is a portal for all student events on campus - check out the event calendar of exciting cultural celebrations such as the Day of the Dead, Lunar New Year and Holi.
• Global Connection Community: offers in-person socials and an informal online community where all Warwick students can come together to mix with others from different backgrounds through simple activities, games, or conversations.
• Explore opportunities: at Warwick you’ll find yourself learning skills - and enjoying experiences - that will open your eyes to new opportunities, enabling you to develop a global perspective and build upon your employability.

• Warwick SportLink opens in a new window: Our very own Sports and Wellness Hub offers amazing facilities for you to keep active.
  • Student membershipLink opens in a new window: there are a few options and you can choose a membership package that works for you, including Sport Club Pass.
  • 'Rock up and PlayLink opens in a new window': you can play lots of different sports (football, other ball games, racquets and bat such as badminton, and swim) for free.
  • 'Move+Link opens in a new window': is a free app based scheme where you can run, swim, walk and cycle to earn points and rewards.
  • Events and free taster daysLink opens in a new window: look out for other free or discounted opportunities to keep active!

• Cost of living support: with practical information on managing a budget and food and drink offers
• Check if you can apply for Hardship, emergency funding or loan (the list below is available to international students):
  • Research Student Hardship Support Fund: for research students who experience unforeseen exceptional circumstances.
  • International Student Emergency Fund: if you have unexpected short-term emergency, which causes difficulty in meeting essential living costs
  • Emergency Loan for up to £250: if you face immediate and short term financial difficulties and unable to meet essential living costs such as food and travel.
  • International Student Childcare Fund: if you are experiencing unforeseen financial hardship, have pre-school-age children (<5 year old) and need to use an approved childcare facility to study
  • Remember, Student Funding Support team offers in person drop-in (Monday - Friday, 10am - 3 pm) - visit the Wellbeing Support Service reception (Senate House) and ask to speak with a member of the team.
  • It's always worth checking with your academic department in case they have any additional hardship support for international students.

Are you approaching the last term of your studies? Then it's time to navigate your next steps: Preparing for Life after Studies (warwick.ac.uk)

Campus is buzzing with so many students, all that is left is for you to join the fun!

• This resourceLink opens in a new windowLink opens in a new window is a good starting point to help you learn more about different types of student societies like academic societies, sport societies, cultural societies and creative societies. There are also translated versions of this resource in ChineseLink opens in a new windowLink opens in a new window, and in RussianLink opens in a new window.
  • This resource was created by International students for International students as part of a research project, we hope you find these resources helpful!

Did you know that Warwick's Student Union has over 250 societies that cover a large range of student interests?

• Student Union SocietiesLink opens in a new window; you can find out more about the different societies that Warwick's SU has to offer, and how to get involved!

• Obtain a 'Certificate of good conduct' - so that it will be easier if you decide to volunteer whilst at Warwick.
• Enrolment - from 4-6 weeks before your course start date, you will be invited to complete enrolment. This includes:
  • Set up your IT account (super important) - watch this 8-minute video demo..
  • Upload your photo - we need it to print the student ID card for you
  • Complete course registration online - you can do it as soon as you receive your Student Visa, before you travel to the UK
• Book a Right to Study check appointment - this is mandatory for all non-UK and non-Irish students with a time-limited visa, and you must attend your appointment once you arrive on campus, before you can start your course.
• Obtain a UK phone number - you may be able to get a UK SIM card even before you travel. Remember, you need a UK phone number to open a UK bank account.