• Check 'Entry Stamp' on arrival: 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.
• Accessing campus Wi-Fi: once on campus, you and your family can use campus Wi-Fi free of charge.
• Visit the Student Information Centre:
  • Collect your Student I.D. card if you live off campus.
  • Collect your accommodation key if you arrive on or after 23 September 2024.
  • To access other help, e.g., 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'. 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 near campus.
• Attend your Right to Study check appointment: this is mandatory for all non-UK and non-Irish students, before you can start your course. If you have been told that the University has received your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP), you can collect it at the same time.
• Enrolment Dashboard tasks: follow the instructions to register with the Health Centre, pay fees, and complete the Student Conduct online course.
• Provide your UK contact details: check and update your Student Records Online with your UK address and UK phone number - this is mandatory for student visa holders.
• Download a Certificate of Status 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.
• 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.

• New student IT guide: from setting up your IT account to prepare your laptop for studying.
• Download the MyWarwick app: 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.
• Download other useful app: useful apps that are commonly used by students when living in the UK.
• Welcome Week: this usually takes place the week before the term start date 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.

• Scams and FraudsLink opens in a new window; stay aware to online scams directed at 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, just hang up. It's most likely a scam.
  • If you received messages from a postal company such as Royal Mail asking for payment for re-delivery, it may be a scam.
  • If it is visa related, read the Home Office guidance and University guidance about common fraud, tricks and scams.
  • NHS treatment is free of charge if you hold a Student Visa, including a medical note or fit note 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).
• Community Safety TeamLink opens in a new window: is committed to safeguarding, offering round-the-clock on-campus support and assistance.
• Report and Support: is here if you ever feel unsafe, due to experiencing or witnessing harassment or other socially unacceptable behaviour.
• Stay safe advice in Chinese: Our local Police Liaison Officer and Constable Tan have prepared this presentation for our Chinese community.
• 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.

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 other days.
  • Cash is less common - a lot of shops do not accept cash (this include Warwick - we are a cashless campus)!
• Your Course Handbook: this contains a lot of important information such as who to contact in your academic department (both academic and support services), who does what in your academic 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 21 September 2023 - 1 October 2023
• Warwick Presents Calendar of events - including Global Connection Community 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 CAS - 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 Visa - including timing, costs (visa and Immigration Health Surcharge), requirements (Tuberculosis test, financial evidence etc.) and how to fill out the application form.
• Quick guides - bitesize video guides to highlight key stages of visa application from CAS to enrolment.

Good to know:

• Career Support for International Students - 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 visa - 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 GP (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 note 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 Services: 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 Services: 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 it: your course handbook will give more information about your department's policy.
• Warwick Library: is open to all and contact your Academic Support Librarian if you need subject specific support.
• UG and PG student training programmes: online and live training to help you develop your academic and related skills.
• Talk to your Personal Tutor: they can offer guidance on your academic experience and development, and signpost you to any departmental skills sessions.
• Be Well, Learn Well: 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 Community: there are dedicated support and study space for our postgraduate taught and research students.
• Join the Research Development Online MS Team: 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: 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 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.

• 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
• Off-campus Purpose-build Student Accommodation - there are many private providers for this option in Coventry and so you have many choices. Why not read the blog written by Ruixin and Shuangting, our current international students and ask any questions!
• House shareLink opens in a new window - this is when you rent a house from a private landlord with 3-4 friends.
  • Paying deposits and payment terms: 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 contract: 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 tax: if you hold a student visa, you are likely to be exempt from paying council tax during your registration period, however, you will need to apply for exemption through your local CouncilLink opens in a new window. If you are to arrive before your 'course start date', you will need to complete course registration before your accommodation contract start date to be considered for a council tax exemption.
  • Right to rent - your landlord will ask for proof of your immigration permission so that they can verify your right to rent directly with the UKVI.
  • Housing help - our Student Union Advice Centre offers free advice and support even before you arrive in the UK.

• Can't decide? See what our current student Diya says 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 Studentpad) you can request access once you accept an unconditional offer.
• Read our 'stay safe - accommodation tips' to avoid scammers.

Learn about arranging finances and insurance before you leave home.

• Knowing the cost - check the course fees and living costs in the UK. A Student visa application using standard service currently costs £490 and Immigration Health Surcharge currently costs £776 for each year of your visa (both need to be paid upfront when you apply for your visa).
• Flywire - 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 fees - 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 UK - 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).

Prepare for a seamless arrival:

• Check the transit visa requirements for any country where you are stopping on your route in order to avoid being denied boarding.
• University of Warwick airport transfer service - from London Heathrow and Birmingham Airports from Thu 19 September 2024 to Sun 22 September 2024 only. Bookings open on Mon 5 August and we'll email all offer holders with the link to book your ticket. Check out ticket prices, times and more on our Airport Transfers pageLink opens in a new window. The University of Warwick only provides an airport transfer service for students arriving during the main campus arrivals period in September, and not at any other time of year.
• Travelling to campus independently - learn about transportation options, directions, and tips for reaching our campus hassle-free.
• What to bring - discover the essentials to pack for your new adventure in the UK. Remember if you will live on campus, you'll be provided with a mattress and mattress cover, but you'll need to bring or buy your own pillow, pillowcase, duvet/blanket, duvet cover and bedsheet. Shops close early on Sundays (usually at 4pm) and so if arriving after shop opening hours, bring light bedding for the first night.
• Final preparation before your travel - documents you should carry in your hand luggage and what to be aware of when crossing the border.

Good to know:

• The British Council - created a pre-departure guide with lots of useful information in 2019-20; the general information remains relevant.

Feast, sip and celebrate with your new friends!

• Eating on campus; 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 Coventry, and food and drink recommendations in Leamington Spa,
• 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 area: 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 requirement for travelling to Europe and our top tips for travelling abroad!

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

• Interactive Campus Map 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 campus; Taxis; Buses; 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 - Stagecoach Link 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.
• Cycling; Car parks on campus; Local travel; Cycle lanes, parking spots, and local jaunts - get to know how to move locally, sustainably!
• Driving in the UK;Link opens in a new window shift gears like a Pro! All you need to know about driving licenses and driving rules in the UK!

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 windowLink 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 Matters; develop skills to manage money, save money or make money during studies!

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 window or the Student Union.
  • Why not read the blog shared by Ruixin, one of our current international students?
• 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.
• Careers information for Chinese students: this is created as part of UK government funding and available in both English and Chinese.

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

• 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.

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

• This resourceLink 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 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 300 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!

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

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.

• Reading list - if there is any course specific reading list, your academic department will inform you in their pre-arrival communication.
• Preparation is key - read the top tips from Ibrahim, our current international student.
• International Student Success - 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 recommend that you complete the course before leaving home (4 modules, 2-4 hours).
• Learn new terminologies - 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 course - is offered in the summer and can clear your offer condition and boost your academic English and study skills.

• 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)

• 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 6-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.

If you are a government-sponsored or a research student intending to bring your family to the UK:

• Visa for your family - check if you can bring your family to the UK when you study and how to apply for their visa.
• Dependant support - visit our dedicated webpage for information on employment and practical living support, family support and community integration, and health and visa support.