Support for international students in the UK

UK undergraduate and postgraduate degree courses

Many UK universities and colleges have specialist international advisers to support you throughout your UK education. They provide advice and information on almost anything; from accommodation through to extending your permission to stay in the UK.

You can also take part in an orientation or induction programme organised by your UK institution. These last from a couple of days to a week and usually include:

• a tour of the campus
• an overview of the facilities and how to use them
• explanations of the institution’s rules
• help with registering for your UK course
• an outline of teaching methods
• discussion of important aspects of life in the UK
• social events where you can meet staff and other students

English language courses in the UK

If you study a UK English language course, most schools offer a student welfare service to help you. You can get advice on accommodation, UK visas and legal requirements before you even reach the UK. On arrival, your school will also provide a meet-and-greet service and transportation.

Support continues throughout your UK course. In the unlikely event that you will need it, most schools have an emergency telephone number that you can ring 24 hours a day. English language schools also make sure that students under the age of 16 are closely supervised.

UK schools and colleges

When you study at a UK independent school or state boarding school you will be well looked after. Before you travel to the UK they will ensure you have a guardian here who is responsible for you. A representative from your school will also meet and greet you at the airport.

Your care at a UK independent school or state boarding school is usually the joint responsibility of academic staff and qualified ‘house parents’. Most schools allocate pupils to individual mentors, who take a personal interest in your welfare. Many schools have a matron and provide access to a school doctor.

Vocational courses in the UK

Your vocational course is likely to be based at a UK college of further education, although most FE colleges also offer courses in traditional academic programmes including A-levels, the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, and pre-university international foundation courses. Most colleges make welfare arrangements and have dedicated international student advisers. Their job is to work with you to understand your needs and appreciate your different culture.

Many UK further education colleges will also offer an induction or welcome programme for you. These include trips and cultural events - and are a good way to get to know the local area and other students.
 
Student services departments and the students’ union are there to help, should any problems arise. You can also talk to your tutor; all students are assigned a personal tutor who will monitor your academic progress and help with any problems.