Gloucestershire College International Guide 2019/20

A handy travel-sized guide to learning at GC and living in Learning That Works. Discover GC We deliver learning that works

Gloucestershire College GC is a provider of BTEC sponsor of international (GC) is one of the largest diplomas and other further students. Contents colleges of further and higher education courses Studying at GC is about and higher education to approximately 4,000 full- so much more than a 3. Discover GC in England, with three time students and 15,000 qualification. You will be 4. 10 reasons to study at Gloucestershire College large campuses across part-time students. joining a diverse, supportive 6. Student Support the Cotswolds. The first We have welcomed and close-knit community of 8. Your GC Experience choice for those who think international students and staff and students who will 9. Trips and Excursions differently, GC prepares groups from over 35 different encourage your passions, 10. Location students for life and countries for over 45 years. help you to develop your 12. Cheltenham Campus supports them with their We are accredited by the confidence and skills and next steps to university or 14. Campus British Council for the teaching create life-long memories. into employment. 16. English Language of English (EFL), a member Come and write your story, be 17. Summer School of English UK and a UKVI inspired and see for yourself. 18. Vocational courses and programmes 19. Levels explained 20. National Diplomas 22. Study Abroad Programme 24. Higher Diplomas 25. Foundation Degrees/HND Top-Ups Level 6 26. International Foundation Programme “Students are highly motivated, 28. University Progression with good behaviour, a clear 30. Teacher Training sense of purpose and a 32. Bespoke Group Courses 34. Accommodation courteous attitude to peers, 35. Visas staff and visitors.” Ofsted, 2016 36. Travel Checklist 37. How to Apply

Find out more www.gloscol.ac.uk/international

2 Gloucestershire College International Guide 2019/20 | Learning That Works. www.gloscol.ac.uk/international | Tel: +44 (0) 1242 532144 3 10 reasons Improve your English 6 language skills in small to study at classes – our small Gloucestershire international community means that you will have a College supportive study experience Develop personally and Benefit from our strong 7 professionally with 1 partnerships with hundreds our Student Development of local businesses, getting team and receive support ahead with guest lectures, from your own dedicated company visits and learning mentor and placements* employment coach Learn from industry Personalise your learning 2 experts and experience the 8 with bespoke courses. With highest quality of inspirational diploma or higher education teaching in an English courses, you will have the language centre accredited opportunity to study English by the British Council Ofsted say that… and Maths alongside your Experience our multi- We inspire students qualification, if required 3 million pound invested We prepare students for their future Discover our large facilities that are industry 9 campuses across two relevant to prepare you for We offer industry relevant facilities safe locations in the heart the workplace or university Our lecturers are passionate subject specialists of England, the beautiful Our lessons are engaging and well designed Progress to the best regency spa town of Employers value our students’ skills 4 universities in the UK. Our Cheltenham and the historic international students go on city of Gloucester to study at top Russell Group Create life-long memories universities 10 by joining excursions to top Join our multinational UK cities and attractions 5 student community – meet students from the UK and join our international “I really enjoyed making community made up of over a movie and would like to 35 different nationalities visit again – 2 weeks was not enough! I want to come back Over 45 years’ experience and make even more friends!” welcoming international students and groups Kurumi Goto - 19

*dependent upon visa restrictions

4 Gloucestershire College International Guide 2019/20 | Learning That Works. www.gloscol.ac.uk/international | Tel: +44 (0) 1242 532144 5 Student Support

We know that studying abroad can be hugely exciting, but also challenging. That is why we offer a range of support services to help you make the most out of this life-changing experience. Our team are there to help you, before you apply and after you have completed your studies.

Before You Arrive Welfare There will be lots that you will need Our team are there to help you with any to know before you travel to GC. Our academic, personal, emotional or medical team will help you with your application, issues that you may need to deal with. As an visa, accommodation and airport travel international student, you will have access to: arrangements. The international team, to look after any concerns such as visa renewals, medical After You Arrive concerns or other matters As an international student, you will have a A course tutor, to help with your academic special induction to make sure you know progress how to get around and how to receive A learning mentor, with timetabled one- help when you need it. This will involve the to-one individual tutorials to discuss health following: and well-being, coursework, homework Meeting your tutors and the international problems and university applications team Faith and Religion Help completing any official paperwork, GC has a multi-faith prayer room available registering with a doctor, buying a bus for all students. pass and setting up a bank account

Moving On

Our team are there to help you with your

next steps, whether that is going back home

or preparing to apply to University. “The tutors were very professional,

attentive and happy to help with anything at all times. Thank you again.”

Read more about our Safeguarding Policy: EFL Student www.gloscol.ac.uk/student-and-parent-guide/safeguarding

6 Gloucestershire College International Guide 2019/20 | Learning That Works. www.gloscol.ac.uk/international | Tel: +44 (0) 1242 532144 7 Trips Your GC Experience and Excursions Student Development We want you to get the best out of your stay and know that learning continues outside of the classroom. That is why at GC, we organise a variety of trips and excursions both for Summer School and throughout the year for international students on any course. This is to make sure you have the most exciting stay possible with us.

We are lucky to have a central location in England, as this means that we are just 1 hour away from other major cities and places of interest.

UK Excursions Some of the trips we arrange include: Bath Our Student Development team students. We issue a GC Open Badge to our Cardiff works with our students to offer Diploma/HND students, which demonstrates Liverpool to employers the skills you have learnt. You Stratford-upon-Avon new experiences, challenges and can add it to your CV or LinkedIn profile London opportunities that will develop Harry Potter Studio Tour you as a person and make you Student Development Oxford ready for the world of work or If you are looking to progress to university, Manchester our Student Development team can help with university. Alton Towers your application You will experience a brand new way of Social Activities Learning Mentors learning that helps prepare you for the future. Departmental lunches Learning Mentors are here to support you Culture celebrations throughout your journey with us. They will Christmas parties Personalise your learning help you to be safe and successful and stay Alongside your vocational qualification, and on track, working alongside your lecturer, As a GC student, you will also be a if required, you’ll study Level 2 English and to make sure you have everything you need member of the Students’ Union, which Maths. Personalise your study programme to to learn successfully. They can connect you organise social activities throughout the year reach your goals to people across the college including the for all students to enjoy. Attend the Freshers’ Learning Support and Safeguarding team Fayre or talk to one of the Student Open Badges “The people in Cheltenham are so friendly Union reps to take part. With so many opportunities at college, we and the place is so exciting. I would want to recognise the achievements of our love to visit again” Saya – International Student

8 Gloucestershire College International Guide 2019/20 | Learning That Works. www.gloscol.ac.uk/international | Tel: +44 (0) 1242 532144 9 “Gloucester is the Location 2nd friendliest city in the UK” Business Insider UK, 2017

“Cheltenham is really beautiful with lots of shops and places to visit. I love the Edinburgh architecture of the area and there are lots of parks to visit” Sofia Conte, English Language student (Italy) When you are moving somewhere new, there “The Cotswolds is is lots to discover. ranked one of the best Birmingham Whether you are looking to explore places to live in exciting festivals, historic architecture, great places to eat and drink, boutique the UK” shopping, or stunning scenery Cardiff Halifax, 2019 and countryside, Gloucestershire Oxford is a wonderful mix of old and new Bristol London British culture and provides all of the entertainment of a big city.

Gloucestershire has excellent transport links to other major places of interest. We are one hour from Oxford, Birmingham, Cheltenham Campus Bristol and Bath and two hours Gloucester Campus from London by car or train Forest of Dean Campus

10 Gloucestershire College International Guide 2019/20 | Learning That Works. Cheltenham Campus

Gloucestershire College has hair and beauty salon, student-run restaurant two campuses for international ‘Number ONE’ and the Cheltenham Fashion students to explore, one Academy. The campus has its own green in Cheltenham and one in ‘Meadow Bank’ open outdoor space, ideal for soaking up the sun on warmer days. Gloucester. GC also has another campus in the Forest of Dean. Facilities Each has its own distinctive Modern library, with iMacs Discover ‘The Festival Town’ atmosphere and subject areas Hair and beauty salon Known for its world-famous literature, science and music festivals (over 45 each taught on campus. Computing labs year), horse racing calendar, and first-class schools (not to mention the government’s intelligence centre, GCHQ), Cheltenham is also blessed with stunning Regency Multi-sports court Getting here architecture, superb shopping, bars and Michelin star restaurants, tree-lined Purpose-built construction workshops 15 minutes’ bus ride from Cheltenham promenades and plenty of parks. town centre Tinies Nursery 20 minutes’ walk from Cheltenham Spa Subsidised dining options, including; station ‘Food Central’ canteen, ‘Wicked Coffee’, ‘Restaurant Number ONE’ and ‘La Café’ Our vibrant Cheltenham campus boasts big, Bus stop with regular services to bright open spaces across three floors, with Cheltenham town centre and Gloucester plenty of areas for independent study, a lively city centre

12 Gloucestershire College International Guide 2019/20 | Learning That Works. 13 Gloucester Campus

Making a big, bold statement in blue, our buzzing Gloucester Campus commands an enviable location in the heart of the city, at the historic Gloucester Docks, set in the stunning grounds of . With a waterside location, students have a picturesque view of the docks and tall ships from their windows.

Easy to access by foot, bike or car, the Facilities campus is just a hop and a skip away Construction centre with industry-standard Discover the world of Harry Potter from the popular Gloucester Quays outlet tools and machinery Known for top quality British sport with its historic rugby stadium, Kingsholm, and shopping destination, where there are Aircraft simulation room , which starred as Hogwarts in the Harry Potter series, Gloucester plenty of trendy shops, bars, restaurants, TV, film and music recording studios is also blessed with renovated Victorian docksides – Gloucester Quays. A designer cinemas, gyms and leisure centres for you to Motor vehicle garages outlet-shopping destination, at the Quays you can enjoy plenty of trendy shops, bars, enjoy. We are also located near the historic restaurants, cinemas, gyms and leisure centres. Hair and beauty salon Gloucester Cathedral, which starred as Hogwarts in the film series Harry Potter. Dance studio Theatre Getting here Indoor sports court 15 - 20 minutes’ bus ride from GC’s ‘Food Central’ and ‘Food Central Cheltenham campus to-go’ canteens 5 minutes’ walk to Gloucester city centre

14 Gloucestershire College International Guide 2019/20 | Learning That Works. 15 Successfully running Summer English Language Summer School Schools in the Cotswolds for June-August over 30 years

Available to juniors and adults, What’s included? GC’s Summer School is an English language classes - developing experience not to miss. Dynamic, skills through a wide variety of engaging culturally enriching and fun – interactive activities in a supportive atmosphere Summer Schools at GC are all about learning English, making Afternoon activities – a number of age- appropriate options, such as cooking, new friends and experiencing sports, animation, art, film workshops, British culture. dance, drama or exam-focused courses Academic English Where better to learn and improve for those intending to take IELTS or other Helping you with aspects of everyday study Package Options your English language skills than English-language exams skills and academic needs Junior Homestay Summer School in the heart of England? GC has Evening activities - ranging from IELTS Preparation programme (individuals or groups aged a long and successful heritage junior parties or bowling, to cinema or We prepare students to develop the language, 12-17) at our Cheltenham campus of teaching English as a Foreign restaurant visits and traditional English confidence and exam technique skills to Junior Residential Summer School Language (EFL). pub games achieve IELTS success programme (individuals or groups aged With a highly experienced and well-qualified We are also a Cambridge authorised 12-17) at our Hartpury centre Usually, two excursions per week, team of year-round EFL teachers, we offer you one half-day visit locally and one full- examination centre and offer the following Junior Homestay Summer School a range of classes depending on your needs day visit (on Saturdays) with admission Cambridge examinations: PET, FCE, CAE, programme (groups aged 12-17) at our and level of English. included CPE on site in December and June (subject to Gloucester campus numbers) Student care - Safeguarding (protecting Social activities and excursions to major cities Adult Homestay Summer School Entry Requirements students from harm) and first-aid trained can be organised, so that you can have a truly programme (individuals or groups aged Full time and part time courses available staff ensure that you are well cared-for immersive British experience, even outside of 17+) at our Cheltenham campus the classroom. Minimum Elementary level of English Full-board accommodation in one of

Minimum age of 16 our carefully selected nearby homestay General English Prices families, with breakfast, lunch vouchers/ Focusing on all areas of English: grammar, Please email [email protected] Find out packed lunch and dinner provided. vocabulary, listening, speaking, reading, writing more in our Full-board residential accommodation is and pronunciation “The tutors are really friendly, it’s like a big Summer School available in twin or single ensuite rooms Business English family and you are always supported. brochure Focusing on specific vocabulary and My English has improved a lot, I’m speaking For prices business-related concepts more fluently.” Celine – EFL Student Please email [email protected]

Further information Further information www.gloscol.ac.uk/international-students/courses/ English-as-a-foreign-language-efl www.gloscol.ac.uk/international-students/summer-school

16 Gloucestershire College International Guide 2019/20 | Learning That Works. www.gloscol.ac.uk/international | Tel: +44 (0) 1242 532144 17 Vocational courses Levels and programmes explained

It’s important to know all about your options and the opportunities that our qualifications can provide, so we’ve included this handy guide to help you understand what they’re equivalent to. Your international qualifications are assessed as part of the admissions process to compare their equivalence to the UK education system. Level 4+ Higher education (HE) courses 1 or 2-year courses. HE courses are university We offer numerous courses across a range of levels. You can use level qualifications. A HNC is equivalent to this list over the next few pages to find the one that’s right for you. the first year of a degree and a HND to the second year. To complete a full degree, you Level 2/Level 3 Diploma courses can complete your third year at another UK Level 4/Level 5 Higher Education courses university, or apply for our HND top-up course Foundation degrees (Level 6) (if it is offered in your subject area) HND top up courses (Level 6) Level 3 You can also visit our website for course Advanced courses information at www.gloscol.ac.uk 2-year courses equivalent to A Levels. They Did you know? are worth up to 168 UCAS points, which is the same as three A*s at A Level. Progress to “The teachers were so kind All international students a UK university with a Level 3 qualification, or and patient, they helped us studying a Level 2 or higher enter the workplace with everything they could. course will also receive Everyone was lovely! a programme of English Level 2 It would be so great to come language support Intermediate courses back here, it was amazing!” if required 1-year courses equivalent to GCSE grades Xavier Banages – A*-C or 4 to 9. EU students can apply to Junior Summer School Student Level 2 courses, but they are not available to overseas students requiring a Tier 4 visa

18 Gloucestershire College International Guide 2019/20 | Learning That Works. www.gloscol.ac.uk/international | Tel: +44 (0) 1242 532144 19 Hairdressing, Beauty and Holistic Therapies EU students only National Diplomas Beauty and Spa Therapy (L2) Beauty Therapy (L3) Level 2 / Level 3 Beauty Therapy with Massage (L3) (GCSE/A Level Equivalent) Hairdressing (L2) Find out Hairdressing Extended Diploma (L3) more on our Makeup Artistry (L2) website www.gloscol.ac.uk Makeup Artistry Extended Diploma (L3)

IT and Computing Level 2 courses are 1-year GCSE equivalent courses Computing (L2) allowing students to progress to Level 3 course Digital Computer Games Design and *Level 2 courses are not available to overseas students Development (L3) requiring a Tier 4 visa Computing Extended Diploma (L3) Second year pathways: Software Engineering and Development, Forensic Computing and Cyber Security, Web Level 3 courses are 2-year A-Level equivalent and App Development courses allowing students to progress to a UK Motor Vehicle university EU students only (unless student has relevant experience or qualification) Motor Vehicle (L3) Motor Vehicle Extended Diploma (L2)

Art and Design, Photography, Catering and Hospitality Sport, Public Services and Media, Music and Performing Arts Catering and Hospitality (L3) Outdoor Adventure Art and Design (L2) Food and Beverages Services (L2) Sport and Outdoor Education (L2) Art and Design Extended Diploma (L3) Sport and Outdoor Education (L3) Creative Media Production Extended Diploma (L3) Engineering Sport (L2) Graphic Design Extended Diploma (L3) Electrical and Electronic Engineering Extended Sport Extended Diploma (L3) Media (Video, Film, TV, Journalism and Radio) (L2) Diploma (L3) Music Extended Diploma (L3) Mechanical Engineering (L2) Travel and Tourism Music Technology Extended Diploma (L3) Mechanical Engineering Extended Diploma – Airline Cabin Crew (L2) Performing Arts (L2) Technical Route (L3) Travel and Tourism Extended Diploma (L3) Photography (Digital and Traditional) (L2) Mechanical Engineering Extended Diploma –

Photography (Digital and Traditional) (L3 Craft Route (L3) Entry Requirements

Minimum age 16 years old Business, Administration, Management Fashion Academy B2 level of English (or IELTS 5 if requiring a and Finance Fashion Design Extended Diploma) (L3) Tier 4 visa and English is not your first Business and Enterprise Extended Diploma (L3) language) Skills for Business (L2) A good secondary school certificate

20 Gloucestershire College International Guide 2019/20 | Learning That Works. www.gloscol.ac.uk/international | Tel: +44 (0) 1242 532144 21 Study Abroad Programme Study for 1 year or less

Are you looking for a high Study Abroad – 2 terms school experience, but not a full September or January* start qualification? Our Study Abroad *dependent on subject chosen – please programme allows students to enquire experience a Level 2 or Level 3 Available to EU students diploma study for a short period, Study a Level 2 or Level 3 diploma for 1.5 terms (approximately 30 weeks) and whilst improving their level of receive a certificate English. English Language support included Access to accommodation services and Study Abroad – 1 term international departmental excursions September or January* start *dependent on subject chosen – please Study Abroad - 1 year enquire September start Available to EU and Non-EU students September - June Study a Level 2 or Level 3 diploma for 1 Available to EU students term (approximately 13-15 weeks) and Study a Level 2 or Level 3 diploma for 1 receive a certificate year and receive a certificate English Language support included English Language support included Access to accommodation services and Receive an additional qualification in Maths international departmental excursions and English Level 2 alongside your diploma (if required) Study Abroad – 1.5 terms Access to accommodation services and September start international departmental excursions Available to Non-EU students Study a Level 2 or Level 3 diploma for Entry Requirements 1.5 terms (approximately 23 weeks) and Minimum age 16 years old receive a certificate B2 level of English English Language support included Good secondary school transcript and Access to accommodation services and certificate international departmental excursions

For prices www.gloscol.ac.uk/international-students/fees-and-payment

22 Gloucestershire College International Guide 2019/20 | Learning That Works. www.gloscol.ac.uk/international | Tel: +44 (0) 1242 532144 23 Higher Diplomas Level 4 / Level 5 University Level

Our higher education students benefit from small classes and cheaper course fees than at university

Art and Design, Photography, Media, Music and Performing Arts Entry Requirements Art and Design (Fashion) (L4/L5) High B2/C1 level of English (or IELTS 5.5 if Art and Design (Photography) (L4/L5) requiring a Tier 4 visa and English is not your Film and Moving Image (L4/L5) first language) Graphic Design (L4/L5) A level equivalent qualification Music (L4/L5) Spatial Design and Interior Design (L4/L5) BSc Film Production with Applied Technology (validated by Birmingham City University) (L6) Performing Arts (L4/L5)

Business, Administration, Management and Finance “The teachers were Business (L4/L5) incredibly supportive. Engineering I had a wonderful time visiting Electrical and Electronic Engineering (L4) Gloucestershire College”

Natsumi Kabayashi – 21 IT and Computing Digital Forensics and Cyber Security (L5) Computing (L4)

24 Gloucestershire College International Guide 2019/20 | Learning That Works. www.gloscol.ac.uk/international | Tel: +44 (0) 1242 532144 25 International Foundation Programme Guaranteed progression to a UK university

Are you looking to study at a college with excellent facilities, that will equip you with the qualifications and skills you need to progress to a UK university? Our International Foundation Programme 100% guarantees you progression to a UK university in pass rate! just 6 or 10 months.

Our IFP with a Business pathway specialises Entry Requirements in blending English language, business studies Minimum age 16 years old and university preparation to ensure that you are ready to start your course at a UK IELTS 5.0 or higher if English is not your first university. language, or a secondary English pass grade* The qualification will even guarantee you “I chose to study the International Foundation Programme progression to our two partner universities for A good secondary school leaving certificate a range of degree courses. from your home country at GC because the course equipped me with the right knowledge to apply to university and study Marketing Further information and Scholarships Management. It is a safe and friendly place to study, with www.gloscol.ac.uk/international-students/courses/international-foundation-degree good facilities and great teachers to guide you.” *if you do not have this level of English, we can offer you an English language course to improve your English before you go on to the International Foundation Programme. Contact our international team for further information Ariyan - IFP Student

26 Gloucestershire College International Guide 2019/20 | Learning That Works. www.gloscol.ac.uk/international | Tel: +44 (0) 1242 532144 27 University Progression

Katrina went on to study Pharmacy at Queen’s University Belfast and is now working as a Pharmacist in Hong Kong.

Claire (Lin Sun) went on to do a BA and MA in 1 10 Economics at Warwick University. She is now an 9 Analyst at JP Morgan. 5 11

Cali went on to the University of Essex and received a degree 4 8 in International Relations. She 3 6 worked in the international 2 7 department at the University of Essex as an International Officer whilst studying. Cali now works in Global Market Intelligence in Hong Kong.

Ariyan studied the International Foundation Programme for 10 months. He progressed to the University of Sussex to study a degree in Marketing Management.

“I felt welcomed into the Gloucestershire College Our students have been successful in securing places at top UK universities, community from the moment I arrived. I had a great including The Russell Group, all across the country. experience. The tutors are excited about their 1. Belfast (Queen’s University Belfast) 7. London (King’s College) 2. Bristol (University of West of England) 8. London (London School of Economics) research and teaching, are eager to share their knowledge 3. Cardiff (Cardiff University) 9. Manchester (University of Manchester) with students and help them to achieve on their own.” 4. Gloucestershire (University of Gloucestershire) 10. Sheffield (University of Sheffield) 5. Liverpool (University of Liverpool) 11. Warwick (University of Warwick) Busra – Graphic Design Diploma Student 6. London (Imperial College)

28 Gloucestershire College International Guide 2019/20 | Learning That Works. www.gloscol.ac.uk/international | Tel: +44 (0) 1242 532144 29 Teacher Training

The global demand for English language is ever expanding. Do you want a career in international teaching? Are you already a teacher and looking to develop new skills and share best practice?

At GC, we have been offering a range of (EFL) and English for Speakers of Other high quality teacher training courses for Languages (ESOL). over 30 years and as a result, have a well- Entry Requirements established global reputation. High level of English From internationally recognised qualifications such as CELTA, to bespoke courses to suit 2 A-levels (or equivalent), or suitable your individual or group needs, at GC, we experience help you achieve your goals. Bespoke Courses CELTA We have also successfully delivered bespoke CELTA is a first stage teaching course for courses, including CLIL and TKT, both in those with little or no experience of English the UK and abroad for groups of teachers, language teaching. CELTA enables you which have contributed to international state to teach English as a Foreign Language education development programmes.

For prices www.gloscol.ac.uk/international-students/fees-and-payment

30 Gloucestershire College International Guide 2019/20 | Learning That Works. www.gloscol.ac.uk/international | Tel: +44 (0) 1242 532144 31 Bespoke Group Courses What’s included?

Specialist, Business, or General English classes Optional integration classes in vocational subjects (minimum age 16) Bespoke activities and/or trips Half-board accommodation in one of our carefully selected nearby homestay families (full-board options available) 24 hour emergency contact support Free English classes for group leaders in the morning (term time only)

Our short courses provide Our short courses, mini stays and bespoke English CEF Level assessment upon arrival and end of course certificate the perfect opportunity for courses can combine English classes with your group to improve their relevant specialist educational and vocational 1 free group leader place per 15 students input, or enriching cultural and educational knowledge of English in a excursions. relaxed environment, whilst experiencing British culture, exploring England and meeting people from all over the world.

We offer various short course packages, such as integration, preparation for work and British culture, as well as bespoke short courses Optional Extras tailored to suit your requirements. We help you design your bespoke course so Full-day or half-day excursions across the UK to major cities and attractions, including London, Bristol, Birmingham, Bath and Oxford. that it’s suitable for you and your group. This could include a focus on specific subjects or Return airport transfers / Bus passes themes, such as Media, Catering, Fashion, Extra group leader place for £150 per week Art or History. Extra night accommodation: £25 per person per night

Prices Please email [email protected] Please note that students must be aged 12+ for all of our packages. Further information www.gloscol.ac.uk/international-students/short-courses

32 Gloucestershire College International Guide 2019/20 | Learning That Works. www.gloscol.ac.uk/international | Tel: +44 (0) 1242 532144 33 Accommodation Visas

GC is a UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) Tier 4 sponsor of international students.

EU/EAA citizens: Currently (August 2019), to study in the UK for a period of up to 6 for 2019/20 entry, citizens of an EU/EAA months. If your course is an English language country do not require a visa to study in the course (EFL) the short-term study visa can be UK*. issued for a period of 11 months. Visa nationals: Citizens of a “visa country” Non-visa nationals may require a short-term or “visa nationals” require a visa to study in study visa to study longer EFL courses (6 – the UK. 11 months). Non-visa nationals: A “non-visa national” is Tier 4 (General) student visa: This is for a citizen of any country that is not listed. students who are 16 or over, from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) and Check here: www.gov.uk/check-uk-visa Switzerland, and whose UK course is more Non-visa nationals may not require a visa to than 6 months. The visa is issued for a GC’s in-house Accommodation Meals and laundry are included in the visit the UK for a period of up to 6 months. particular course. Office ensures you are looked homestay fee *You can get your visa on entry and will need For a tier 4 visa you will need: after in a safe and friendly Self-catering options are available a course confirmation letter from us. Currently To have been offered a place on a course – environment during your time (August 2019), EU/EEA students can enter Residential using their ID card or passport. we issue this once your application has studying in the UK. We can also advise about residential been approved and you’ve paid the deposit accommodation close to the college for those Getting a visa can take up to six months. for your course Homestay who are over the age of 18, which is offered Before applying, you may need to pass an This is one of the most popular and common by externally managed companies. Regarding English language exam (IELTS). Proof that you can support yourself and pay for your course – this will vary depending on international student accommodation options. independent living in the UK, please refer to Depending on where you are from and how your circumstances GC will carefully select a local homestay host the website. long you are coming to study, you might need based on your needs and requirements. a Tier 4 visa if you are studying a course of Proof that your current level of English is Staying with a local British host encourages more than six months, or a short-term study within the Council of Europe Framework an enriching experience of British culture “I loved my host family – they were like my visa if your course is less than six months. Reference (CEFR) B1 Level or above and is a great way to practice your English second family! They were kind and made me Types of visa speaking skills. All homestay hosts registered delicious English food that I had never eaten To meet the eligibility requirements with GC are visited and assessed for before. It was challenging to speak with Short-term study visa: This is for visa suitability, understand their responsibilities them, but I was able to use some of the nationals, 16 years of age or over, who plan and have full background checks carried out. expressions I had learned in my English classes.” Hazuki – Short Course Student www.gloscol.ac.uk/international-students/how-to-apply/visas-coming-to-the-uk Further information www.gloscol.ac.uk/international-students/accommodation Please note: always check UK Government webpages as this information is subject to change and Email please email [email protected] Gloucestershire College is not liable for any inaccuracies

34 Gloucestershire College International Guide 2019/20 | Learning That Works. www.gloscol.ac.uk/international | Tel: +44 (0) 1242 532144 35 Travel Checklist

How to Apply Ready to study at GC? Check Applying to Gloucestershire College is easy and simple. out our handy travel checklist to Our dedicated International make sure you have everything team will help you every Contact us you will need to start your step of the way. Email [email protected] adventure or fill out our online enquiry form and a member of the team will get back to you as soon as possible.

Valid passport Small umbrella Entry Requirements Step 2. Depending on your chosen We welcome students from all over the world subject, you might be required to have a Visa Toiletries for our courses. Please see the individual Skype interview with the course leader. If we Cash (UK pound) Stationary (pens, pencils, notebooks) course pages for specific entry requirements. are happy with your application, we’ll send you a course offer. This may be conditional Debit or credit card (make sure to Journal/diary If you are not from a country where English depending on your forthcoming exam results, notify your bank before you leave) Every-day clothes is the predominantly spoken language, you or unconditional. Prescription medication(s) if you take any will also need to meet the required English Smart clothes Step 3. We’ll require a deposit and carry Copies of your course offer letters language standards for study, which is a out the necessary checks for proof of funding. Pyjamas minimum IELTS 5.0 for diploma courses and We will then send you a letter of acceptance Travel plug adapter 5.5 for higher education courses. Warm jumpers/hoodies to support your visa application (if applicable). Headphones Scarf/hat/gloves How to Apply Step 4. You should aim to have made Laptop and charger all the necessary applications two months Step 1. You can apply for your course via Mobile phone Warm coat before your course is due to start. This our online application form, which you can will allow us time to respond, arrange your Light waterproof jacket send to [email protected], along Mobile charger accommodation (if required), for your visa with a copy of your passport and current Camera Comfortable footwear application to go through (if required) and for qualifications. you to make travel arrangements. USB cable Smart footwear Useful Links www.gloscol.ac.uk/international-students/how-to-apply Don’t forget that you will receive more information about moving to the UK in your www.gov.uk/government/organisations/uk-visas-and-immigration Pre-arrival Guide www.ukcisa.org.uk

36 Gloucestershire College International Guide 2019/20 | Learning That Works. www.gloscol.ac.uk/international | Tel: +44 (0) 1242 532144 37 Notes

38 Gloucestershire College International Guide 2019/20 | Learning That Works. www.gloscol.ac.uk/international-students/ | Tel: +44 (0) 345 155 2020 Gloucestershire College International Princess Elizabeth Way, Cheltenham GL51 7SJ www.gloscol.ac.uk/international Tel: +44 (0) 1242 532144