2017 Overseas Pre-arrival Guide 01 02

The University welcomes students from all over the world.

The University has over 800 students from outside the UK. Students come from China, India, Pakistan, South-east Asia, Africa, North and South America and the European Union. We at the University are sure that you will nd your chosen programme of study and the university experience both challenging and rewarding. The University hopes that both will lay invaluable foundations for your development both personally and professionally. The University prides itself on the friendly and supportive atmosphere and its ability to treat you as an individual – something you only get from a small institution.

We have no doubt that moving from school, further education, home and family or the world of work to university will be both an exciting and daunting experience, involving considerable changes for many of you. We are aware that the lead up to coming to and your rst few days in the University may feel a little bewildering; this booklet has been prepared to help you settle in as quickly and smoothly as possible. We hope it is of assistance to you. 03 04

Contents

Welcome 02 Help at the university 26 Student Services About the University 03 Where to find Student Services Advisory Service Essential facts 05 University Chaplaincy Advisor for Students with Disabilities Preparing to study and live in the UK 06 Student Academic Support Assessing and understanding your costs Abertay Language Support Counselling University tuition fees 08 Living Expenses for English Language Support 28

Preparing for your journey 12 Useful information 29 Contacting the university About Abertay Checklists: 12 Climate Place of study Clothing is a modern new For your journey Shops and banks opening times university, one with a long history and has Electricity quickly become one of Scotland’s leading What is the best way to travel to 13 Cheques and Postal Orders universities, highly ranked for academic Dundee/Scotland/UK? Recorded Delivery, Registered Mail and performance and it is the talented group of Special Delivery students and academics that make Abertay Hints and Tips 14 Driving in the UK successful. Private accommodation University Scholarships 15 We place teaching and student support at What has Dundee got to offer? 32 the heart of the University, and provide a Transferring money 16 network of support services to help you Money on arrival FAQ’s 33 with all aspects of your life whilst you are at Abertay. The University has some of Opening a bank account 17 Countries from which students are from 36 the most innovative and well-designed buildings in the UK and our library and Employment 18 International Abertay Students views 38 student centre have set the standard for Overseas students universities across the UK. The facilities National Insurance number Useful organisations outside the 39 available across our close-knit city centre Part-time employment University campus are excellent and we pride British Council ourselves that we are ranked very highly in Staying on in the UK and working 20 Foreign and Commonwealth Office – for the UK for our investment in IT. Our library information on visas houses access to over 150,000 books and Registering with the police 20 journals. Our student centre is equipped Useful addresses and telephone 40 with our Aroma Cafe, campus shop, Bar Families 21 numbers One, Sports Bar, Common Room and HMC Student Services - art exhibition space. Children 21 International Student Advisor Student Recruitment Office Abertay bene ts greatly from its central Accommodation 23 Accommodation Service location, the proximity to all transport links, shopping malls and civic amenities means Medical Care 25 Travel websites 40 that our students have everything within walking distance and can take advantage of Religion 25 The Visa National list (2017) 41 the vibrant city of Dundee. 05 06

Preparation to study and live in the UK

When preparing to study and live in the UK, there will be certain procedures and information that you will need to know to make sure your transition into UK life and study is as smooth as possible. This section helps to identify what you need to know and do to undertake study in the UK.

Points Based System In order to travel to the UK as a student under the ‘General Student’ category, of Tier 4 - or extend your leave as a student if you are already here, you must pass a points-based assessment and score 40 points. You will get 40 points from:

• A place on a course with an approved education provider (i.e. Abertay University) – 30 points • Funds to cover your course fees and monthly living costs - 10 points

Applying for a student visa outside the Essential facts (Applying for Entry Clearance to study in the UK):

• Abertay offers world-leading courses in Computer • Dundee is a wonderful and scenic city in a STEP FIND OUT MORE Arts and Computer Games Technology. beautiful location at the mouth of the . 1. Your course: what is an acceptable course of www.gov.uk/tier-4-general-visa/eligibility • Abertay is ranked as the best university in • Dundee offers students excellent value for money study for a Tier 4 (General) student? Scotland for its environmental research. and a low cost of living.

• Over 60 nationalities are represented in our • In the UK top ten for lowest student debt upon 2. Money: work out what money you must For further information on how much money student community. completing University. have to cover your course fees and monthly you will require and how to calculate it, please living costs. You will receive 10 points for refer to the following link www.gov.uk/govern- • Abertay has over 5084 students, with 4476 based • The Abertay Sports Injury Clinic provides expert having the necessary funds to cover both fees ment/ publications/guidance-on-application- on our Dundee campus. rehabilitation to sports performers or members and maintenance (living expenses). for-uk-visa-as-tier- 4-student of the public, allowing them to get back to fitness • Around 66% of our students are from Scotland, in time for their next match. 3. Apply to Abertay: apply for your course www.gov.uk/tier-4-general-visa/eligibility 5% from Northern Ireland, 3% from England and of study and obtain a CAS (Certi cate of Wales, and 26% from overseas. • There is a revitalised gym that is on campus Acceptance for Study). You will receive 30 making it ideal to use in between classes. For points for your CAS. • We have a state-of-the-art library, fully networked a minimal membership you have the use of 14 for the digital age. cardiovascular stations, 15 strength stations and as much training advice as you want. 4. Supporting documentation: please make To check you have the correct documents • Over 600 personal computers are available for sure you have all supporting documentation in and proof please see the following link student use - one of the highest proportions in the • Around 66% of our students are from Scotland, 5% place prior to applying. www.gov.uk/tier-4-general- visa/docu- UK. from Northern Ireland, 3% from England and ments-you-must-provide Wales, and 26% from overseas. • Abertay has been educating Scotland’s workforce 5. Visa application form: complete your For assistance in how to complete the since 1888. application online and submit with appropriate application form and more including biometric fee and supporting documentation. information, please see the following link www.gov.uk/tier-4-general-visa/apply 07 08 Tuition fees

I have heard about biometric information, what Assessing and understanding your costs If you are an international student (i.e. you come from a country outside the is required? In order to ensure you are fully aware of the cost EU), the provisional fee level for undergraduate and postgraduate courses for As part of the visa application process you will be involved in studying and living in the UK, the the academic session2017/18 are listed below. required to provide following information should help you in your preparation of necessary funds. • Your fingerprints and, • Digital photographs How much money will I need to bring with me to STEP FIND OUT MORE the UK? Undergraduate degrees (fee per academic year) £13,500 Your visa application will not be processed until you The two most important costs are your tuition BSc (Hons) Computer Games Technology have provided the necessary biometric information. fees and living expenses. Please make sure you BSc (Hons) Computer Game Applications Development have sufficient funds for both without the need BA (Hons) Computer Arts How and where do I get my Biometrics to source employment in the UK to help towards BA (Hons) Sound and Music for Games information taken? these costs and/or recourse to public funds. Please BSc (Hons) Ethical Hacking Your biometric information will be taken at your also remember that in order to qualify for the nearest Visa Application Centre (VAC), or if your student category under Tier 4 of the Points Based country does not have a VAC, then you will be able System you must be able to show that you have All other undergraduate (Bachelors) programmes £12500 to have your biometrics taken at your local British enough funds to pay for your first year of course mission. Your fingerprints or finger scans will be fees + £9,135 for living expenses (living expenses Postgraduate degrees taken electronically; therefore there will be no ink, calculated for residing outside London). £1,015 for MSc Food and Drink Innovation £14250a liquid or chemicals used. You will also have your each month of your course up to a maximum of MSc Energy, Water and Environmental Management £14250a digital photographs taken at the same time, with the £9,135 for a course lasting nine months or more. MSc Ethical Hacking and Cyber Security £13250a whole process taking no more than 5 minutes. MProf Games Development £14250a How much are the tuition fees at Abertay? MSc Computer Games Technology £13250a Tuition fees will vary depending on the level of the Conditions for Biometrics: MSc Mental Health Nursing £13250a course you wish to apply for, and may increase from • No decoration for example Henna. MSc Counselling £12250a year to year. For full details of tuition fees for the • No cuts, bruises or other markings on your MSc Psychology £12250a academic year 2017/2018, please refer to page (7) or fingertips (before your finger scans MSc Oil & Gas Accounting and Management £12250a www.abertay.ac.uk/international/fees. are taken). MSc International Finance and Accounting £12250a • Any cuts or bruises to the face must have healed MSc International Human Resource Management £12250a or disappeared prior to having your photograph MSc International Management £12250a taken. • Digital photographs must be of your full face, no sunglasses, hats or any other head covering can Postgraduate Research degrees (per academic year) be worn (unless you wear it for cultural or PhD/MPhil/Masters by Research - subjects in Food, £14250 religious reasons but the face must not be Environment, Engineering and Science covered). PhD/MPhil/Masters by Research - subjects in Computing, £13250 Computer Games, Ethical Hacking, Nursing PhD/MPhil/Masters by Research - subjects in Counselling, £12250 Psychology, Sociology, Management

Continuation Fee for Masters by Research (for the £150 additional two months)

English Language courses International English Foundation Course £7500(TBC) Intensive English for Academic Purposes Programme excluding accommodation £1100(TBC) including accommodation £1490(TBC) “Early Bird” offer (booking before June 30th) excluding £950(TBC) accommodation “Early Bird” offer (booking before June 30th) including £1340(TBC) accommodation

Tuition fees – further information a - There may be additional charges where the MSc is not completed within 18 months.

Students undertaking more than a full-time complement of modules will normally be charged for the excess modules. 09 10

• Cheques should be made payable to “University of How do I pay my tuition fees? Abertay Dundee” www.abertay.ac.uk/studying/money-fees-funding/ Living expenses for Dundee fees/ • Postal order should be made payable to With Dundee being a smaller city than that of , , “University of Abertay Dundee” Please note: All overseas students are required or England in general – the living expenses are slightly to pay a 50% non- refundable, non transferable less in comparison. • Banker’s Draft should be made payable to deposit in order to confirm their place and receive “University of Abertay Dundee”. It is not necessary to a Certificate of Acceptance for Study (CAS). use a special bank to obtain a bank draft – use your Furthermore the remaining 50% must be paid prior own bank to provide you with this service. to or on registration. Average cost of living per month: Clothing - average cost per item: All below costs are an approximate guide therefore • Credit/Debit card (e.g Visa/Mastercard/Switch/ What are the living expenses for Dundee? could be slightly more or less than stated below. Dry Cleaning £3+ Solo) by telephoning our Finance department with The table below will provide you with an this number +44 (0) 1382 308833 approximate indication to the likely costs of living in T-shirts/Underwear £3+ Dundee from your accommodation and fuel bills to Accommodation £300 - £400+ • Cash (in person only – please do not send cash by everyday living costs. Electricity/Gas £30 - £50+ Lightweight shirts/ £5+ post) sweaters We therefore recommend for courses of 12 months • Bank transfer using the following information: or less you budget for costs of £1,015 per month Food £200 Jeans/casual £10+ • Address: Royal Bank of Scotland, excluding tuition fees and for courses of 12 months trousers/skirts 3 High Street, Dundee or more, you budget for costs of £9,135 to cover Laundry £12 • Sort Code: 83-50-00 your rst year of study excluding tuition fees. Lightweight £15+ • Account Name: University of Abertay Dundee Textbooks £12 - £30 outdoors jacket • Account No: 10503800 • IBAN No: GB52RBOS83500010503800 Telephone1 £15+ Heavier sweater, £20+ • SWIFT BIC: RBOSGB2L heavier shoes Personal Hygiene £10 - £12 Items Raincoats and other £30+

Library Photocopying 5p single sided Outerwear boots £30+ 8p double sided 20p single colour Winter coat £40 and under 38p double sided Please note that you may be able to find above items 1Please note that this average cost does not include how cheaper in a supermarket than from a retail store in the much you would perhaps spend on social calls per month. city centre.

Electrical - average cost per item: Travel - average cost per item:

Small electrical £15 and under Travel by bus (in and Day saver ticket costs appliances i.e around Dundee) £3.80 or Student Saver hairdryer/kettle/iron (weekly) ticket costs £9.50. Fares correct as of April 2017. Laptop/notebook £250 upwards, second hand Travel by bus outside Megabus Travel from Dundee £2 upwards. Booking in advance will keep the cost low. 11 Social and specific items - average cost: 12

Alcohol (wine/beer) £2 - £5

Newspapers/ 30p and upwards magazines

CDs £5 and upwards

Telephone charge Available in £5, £10, cards (for use in £15 & £20 public telephones) Preparing for your journey

Restaurant meal £8 per head + Before you arrive in the UK and Abertay University, Place of Study Cinema ticket £6+ it is important that you are fully prepared for Do you have your unconditional offer letter? your journey and arrival at the university. Below Theatre ticket £10+ are some handy hints, tips and suggested Do you have sufficient funds for living documentation to help with your transition to expenses? Concert ticket £10+ university life and living in Dundee. Have you advised Abertay of your arrival Nightclub entry £5+ What documents will I need for my journey to details? the UK? Leisure centre i.e. £3.90+ • A valid passport or travel document. Do you have a contact for when you arrive at swimming/tennis Abertay or other meeting point e.g. Dundee etc. • An air ticket and any connecting travel tickets/ railway or bus station? instructions. Please note: Student discounts are offered at many local Have you planned your journey from the shops, theatres, cinemas, museums, galleries, bars/ • If Applicable vaccination certificates i.e. point of entry to your final destination? nightclubs and leisure facilities. Student dis-counts are Meningitis ‘C’ strain and Tuberculosis. Please view also available for transport (bus/train). Please ask the www.meningitis.org , Student Association for more details. www.nhs.uk/conditions/tuberculosis/ pages/ introduction.aspx For your Journey Miscellaneous - average cost: Do you have all your travel tickets? • A letter of acceptance/unconditional offer letter from Abertay. Have you obtained a letter from your doctor Insurance (Endsleigh £10.99 per month for any prescribed drugs you may need to Insurance)3 • Originals or certified copies of any degree bring with you? certificates or qualifications you have obtained. Television License £147 for colour and Have you ordered British currency and/or £49.50 for black and • Some warm clothing. traveller’s cheques for your immediate arrival white per year, can expenses? be paid monthly. • Some British currency or travellers’ cheques (can Please note: You be exchanged at a bureau de change at an airport, Have you checked whether you need must be covered bank, post office or travel agent). permission to transfer money to the UK? by a TV Licence to download or watch • Insurance documents. Have you checked whether your own BBC programmes on government has restrictions on the amount of iPlayer - live, catch • A list of what you are carrying in your luggage in money you can take out of your country? up or on demand. case you have to make a luggage claim. Have you taken out personal and medical Textbooks4 £10 - £50 per book • Any prescribed drugs you are taking plus a letter insurance? from your Doctor explaining what they are. Haircut from £6 (men) from Have you checked with your local British £25+ (women) Mission what you must declare at customs?

Personal health Prices will vary Have you weighed your bags to ensure insurance they are within your baggage allowance and is easily transportable for your ongoing 3www.endsleigh.co.uk journey?

4Textbooks can be bought second hand reasonably Pack some clothes in your hand baggage in cheaply and will also be found in the University Library case of delayed or lost luggage. 13 14 Hints and tips

Cost of Living Medical insurance This varies across the UK with many larger cities Although you may be eligible for free NHS being more expensive than other areas. For a treatment during your studies in the UK, it is breakdown of approximate living expenses in advisable to also secure medical insurance which Dundee please go to pages 8 and 9. Alternatively, would cover for any other eventualities for example you may wish to have a look at the International your policy may cover the following - lost fees if Student Calculator which will provide a general you are unable to complete your course, costs of guide to living expenses in the UK. returning home if a relative is ill, cost of returning international.studentcalculator.org you to your home country for treatment and or repatriation. Bringing cash It is advisable not to bring large amounts of cash Vaccinations with you to the UK, rather bring Travellers’ Cheques It is always advisable to make sure your or a Travellers’ Cheque card - please make sure vaccinations are up to date before traveling to that you keep these separate from your passport. another country. The most common vaccinations to If you do bring cash, only carry enough to pay for ensure are up to date for the UK are Meningitis ‘C’ overnight accommodation for 1-2 nights, food, strain and Tuberculosis. For more information please telephone calls home and any other expenses go to www.meningitis.org, www.nhs.uk/conditions/ for the first week (bus fares, stationery, social tuberculosis/pages events etc). With regard to Tuition fees, contact the University in advance to pay these directly by bank Useful documentation/items: transfer. • Valid passport/travel document

Currency limits • Travel tickets for ongoing journey If you choose to bring money worth more than 10,000 Euros (this includes other currencies) to the • Your unconditional offer letter for Abertay UK when you are arriving from a country outside the European Union, you are required to declare • Original or certified copies of any degree What is the best way to travel to this on arrive to customs officers, where you certificates or qualifications that you have been Dundee/Scotland/UK? must complete a declaration form. Secondary to awarded this, please check whether your country has any restrictions on cash that may be taken out of the • Some warm, waterproof clothing Many European flights to the UK land at London Heathrow, London country or amounts that can be transferred at any Gatwick or Birmingham International first before taking a connecting one time to the UK. • A list of what you are carrying in your luggage in flight to Edinburgh or Dundee. The duration from Heathrow, Gatwick or case you have to make a claim Birmingham International to Edinburgh or Dundee is approximately 1 Travel insurance hour and 30 minutes. It is advisable to secure travel insurance for your • A list of any prescribed drugs you are taking journey and to cover you for the first week of your including a letter from your Doctor explaining Flights to Edinburgh from Amsterdam, Frankfurt and a number of other stay in the UK. what they are European countries have flight durations of approximately 1-2 hours.

If arriving at Edinburgh airport, the Airlink 100 coach service will take you directly to the City Centre where onward travel by train or bus to Dundee can be arranged. Please note that the train or bus service to Dundee varies in price and duration but is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Travel from London to Dundee via road or rail will vary in price, times and duration.

Dundee has its own airport with direct flights from London Stansted.

To organise your transfer to Dundee, please see the travel websites at the back of this guide.

Student Helpers who will be wearing red t-shirts will be available at Dundee Bus and Train stations on Saturday 26th and Sunday 27th August between 10.00 - 16.00 to guide you to Abertay University.

For further information, please contact the Advisory Service by emailing [email protected]. 15 16 Transferring money

Bringing money to the UK can be problematic if and fax number with you in case you need to you do not plan ahead. There are a number of ways organise this type of transfer. Please note that if you of getting money into the country, but even the wish to transfer any funds to the University, make quickest method can take one or two days for the sure to make it clear what the funds are to be used transfer arrangements to be completed. for i.e. to pay for fees or accommodation etc and provide your student ID number if known. The various options open to you are listed below: • Traveller’s cheques – Travellers cheques are very • Credit Cards – Most banks in the UK will accept useful because they can be changed into sterling MasterCard, American Express, Eurocard or Visa. at a bureau de change, bank or hotel (although not These can be used to withdraw cash from cash all hotels offer this facility) enabling you to obtain dispensing machines and enable you to obtain money before you have organised a bank account. money when you first arrive and before you have opened a bank account, provided you know the PIN In the UK, there are no restrictions on the amount number (Personal Identification Number) of the of money you can bring in, however your own card. government may control the ow of funds coming into and out of your home country. Therefore please • International Money Order – This can be purchased check the following prior to departure from home prior to travel and can be exchanged • How and do you need permission to transfer for cash at a Post Office using your Passport as money to the UK? identification. The money order must be in British • Is there a limit on how much you can transfer to (Sterling) currency and can also be made payable the UK? to your UK institution if you wish, allowing you to • Are there any money regulations that you must pay for your tuition fees. Any additional expenses comply with? such as living costs should be placed on a separate money order. Money on arrival You will need approximately £200 in British • Transfer of funds5 – This is one of the quickest ways (sterling) currency on arrival in the UK. This is to University scholarships of transferring money from a bank in your country pay for transport, meals and perhaps overnight to one in the UK. You can use this method only accommodation for the first few days if needed. when you have opened a bank account in the UK. Do not carry any more than this in case it gets lost The University offers a range or Scholarships, bursaries and awards to It can be quite expensive and the transfer must be or stolen. It is a good idea to bring some travellers eligible students. Below is a list of current options. To find out if you are organised with your bank either by yourself, on the cheques with you for emergencies; they can be eligible and for more information, please log on to www.abertay.ac.uk/ phone, via fax or through your parents at home. It is cashed at an airport Bureau de Change, Post Office international/scholarships/ therefore very useful to bring your bank’s telephone or at a bank. 1. Chevening Scholarships 5 2. Fulbright Awards Please note that the university cannot act as a bank and transfer funds from another source i.e. sponsor into 3. Indonesia-UK DIKTI Scholarships cash/cheque or your personal bank account for you. 4. Scottish Saltire Scholarships 5. Takahashi & Howat Memorial Overseas Scholarship 6. TOEFL Scholarships 7. Tullow Group Scholarship Scheme 8. Global Study Awards

Other scholarships and financial support Students looking for further financial support or scholarships should contact their local British Council Office. Applicants are encouraged to apply for support from the following schemes: British Chevening Scholarship, Commonwealth Scholarships, British Marshall Scholarship, and Fulbright. For a brief overview of these schemes please contact the Student Recruitment Office at [email protected]. 17 18 Employment

Overseas Students www.abertay.prospects.ac.uk, but you will need to The conditions stated within your visa will tell you register first to use this service. Alternatively, try whether you are allowed to work part-time or full- local newspapers, the government job search site - time in this country. Nearly all international students www.gov.uk/jobsearch, recruitment agencies, shop are now able to work part time whilst studying. If windows or friends and other contacts. Students can your visa conditions con rm that you are restricted be successful in gaining work in local retail outlets, but not prohibited from work you will be entitled call centres, bars and restaurants and administrative to work up to a maximum of 10-20 hours per week offices. These types of opportunities are better suited during term time and up to as many as 40 hours per to a student’s timetable as hours worked can be week during vacation periods.Further information flexible. It is sometimes possible to find a job related can be sought through the Advisory Service once to your course – talk to a Careers Adviser to discuss you have arrived at Abertay, or by looking at the this in more detail. following link www.ukcisa.org.uk/Information-- Advice/Working/Can-you-work. The following websites are a good source of information for International students considering National Insurance Number working part-time: You will be required to obtain a National Insurance Number in order for your employer to correctly Abertay Careers: www.abertay.ac.uk/careers record any National Insurance Contributions. If you do not already have one contact the Jobcentre Plus Education UK (British Council): www.educationuk. once you have arrived in Dundee. See www.hmrc. org gov.uk/ni/intro/number.htm for more details. UKCISA (The UK Council for International Student Part-time employment Affairs): Many international students choose to work in the www.ukcisa.org.uk/Information--Advice/Working/ UK during their studies. Part-time employment Can-you-work can provide an opportunity to make new friends and the chance to learn more about Dundee and Directgov: its people. More importantly, it helps to improve www.gov.uk/browse/working Opening a bank account your employability; with the chance to learn and develop work-related skills. Other benefits include, Tax Advice: You may consider opening a bank account in the UK before you practice at making applications and improving your www.hmrc.gov.uk/students arrive. Banks such as HSBC (www.hsbc.com) have banks around the language skills – whilst earning extra cash of course! Tel: 0845 300 0627 (Mon-Fri 8am-8pm, Sat 8am-4pm) world where you can open foreign currency accounts. The advantage of doing this is that it is easy to make payments in advance of your A good place to start your search for a job is the National Insurance: arrival, for example, paying a deposit in order to secure a private at university’s Career Development Centre. They www.hmrc.gov.uk/ni/intro/number.htm which can involve quite a lot of money. It is also useful in obtaining can offer practical advice and guidance when Tel: 0845 600 0643 a Visa to study (should you require one), as you will be able to show searching and applying for work and frequently post your financial status in sterling, which some embassies require. A list suitable vacancies on their Facebook page www. Morethanwork website: of web sites for other UK banks can be found at the end of this guide. facebook.com/abertaycareerdevelopmentcentre International students: www.nases.org.uk and on the jobshop noticeboard next to the Career All students: www.nases.org.uk/morethanwork If you are planning on opening a bank account when you arrive at Development Centre (level 2, Bernard King Library). the University it is important that you have the following documents Local part-time jobs are also posted online at ready as this will speed up the process of opening a bank account. • Passport. • Visa (if applicable). • Letter from the University confirming your student status and address both in the UK and home country6 • If you are privately renting, you may be required to present your original lease or contract. • Money (please note you only need a minimum of £1 to open an account).

For more information please refer to www.moneyadviceservice.org.uk

6 Letters from the University con rming your address and student status are available from Support Enquiry Zone (SEZ) who are based on the ground oor of the Library. Please allow for 24 - 48hrs for your letter. During busier periods please allow letters to be delayed by more than 48hrs. 19 20

Staying on in the UK and working on the Points-based system

For more information on how you can stay on in the UK and work after you complete your studies, please refer to the following website or contact the Advisory Service at advisory@ abertay.ac.uk.

www.ukcisa.org.uk/Information--Advice/Working/Working- after-studies

Registering with the Police

Some visa nationals will have a requirement stamped in their visa/passport to register with the Police on arrival in Dundee/ Scotland/UK within 7 working days.

The following countries are those who are required to register with the Police: Afghanistan, Algeria, Argentina, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Belarus, Bolivia, Brazil, China, Columbia, Cuba, Egypt, Georgia, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan, Lebanon, Libya, Moldova, Morocco, North Korea, Oman, Palestine, Peru, Qatar, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Sudan, Syria, Tajikistan, Tunisia, Turkey, Turkmenistan, United Arab Emirates, Ukraine, Uzbekistan and Yemen, and holders of stateless documents.

What do you need to take with you? • Your Passport • Two passport sized photographs • Registration fee of £34.007

If your spouse and family accompany you whilst you are studying in the UK, they will also need to register. You must notify the police if you change your address or extend your ‘Leave to Remain’.

7 Currently £34.00 21 22

Families

There are a number of things you might like to consider before deciding whether or not to bring your family with you to the UK. Apart from the obvious increase in living expenses to cover the cost of your family living here, there are also immigration issues, which you should bear in mind. If you wish to bring your wife/husband and/or children it is usually easier to apply for their visa at the same time as your own. Please check UKVI (UK Visas and Immigration) website for current immigration information/changes prior to applying www.bia.homeoffice.gov.uk.

Children

Normally all children under the age of 18 can enter and remain in the UK for as long as their student parent has permission to stay, providing you have sufficient funds available to support and house them.

Pre-school age – There are a number of nurseries/playgroups for small children in Dundee. Childcare for this age group is expensive; so do take this into consideration.

Schooling - Children aged 5 – 16 are required by law to go to school and will be entitled to free schooling. For details of schools in the Dundee area contact Dundee City Council, Dundee House, 50 North Lindsay Street, Dundee on +44 (0)1382 434900, or alternatively log onto the website at www.dundeecity.gov.uk 23 24 Accommodation

Moving away from home to study in higher knowing that when you are staying in University bedrooms provide privacy and an area in which to anxious, but you can’t speed it up by phoning the education is an exciting time in life. There are new accommodation there is a 24 hour campus security study and relax. The contract for all residences is for office. This only slows down the process, so please friends to be made, new places to discover and the service and an on-call caretaker. the full duration of the academic session, inclusive try to be patient. They will allocate you a room based chance to develop many new interests. An important of Christmas and Easter vacations. The contract is on your age and the preferences you have made. part of the process is finding somewhere to live Abertay’s website has lots of information on 40 weeks in duration with 43 and 51 week contracts You will receive a response by email within seven and our residences office is there to help you find residences including the range of room types and available for Parker House. days of applying. suitable accommodation and to offer advice to help prices of accommodation currently available. you settle in quickly. www.abertay.ac.uk/studying/accommodation/ Co-habiting students and students with families Living in private rented flats The University has limited number of double/ Many senior students prefer to stay in private rented Students new to Dundee normally look for Residences policy premium rooms in Lyon Street which are ideal flats with friends, and the majority of students living somewhere affordable, comfortable and within When allocating accommodation the University for couples who wish to live in University away from home - in the second or later years daily travelling distance of the University. There are gives priority to first entrants and to overseas accommodation for the duration of their studies. The of their course - choose to stay in private rented a variety of different types of student residential students who are new to Dundee. Accommodation Officers are happy to give advice accommodation. Prices of flats vary and range from accommodation, either privately owned or directly on finding suitable accommodation in the private £50 upwards per person per week, depending on the leased by the University. Staying in any of the For those who do not wish to be placed in the sector or in local authority housing for students location and facilities of individual properties. www. University of Abertay’s halls of residence means University accommodation, our Residences Office planning on coming to Dundee with their families. abertay.ac.uk/studying/accommodation/ that you can look forward to living in modern, staff are happy to give information on finding Student Services have some literature available comfortable surroundings will all the facilities you accommodation within the private rented sector. How to apply for University accommodation about how to find private accommodation, you can need to make your stay enjoyable. Once a course offer becomes Unconditional Firm, also check out the www.shelter.org.uk website for Living in the University’s residential that is once a student has been offered a place top tips on how to find a good at. The University’s five self-catering residences offer a accommodation on a course, met the conditions (passed exams) wide range of high quality accommodation. The size Living in student residential accommodation is great and accepted the offer, the student’s status on the of the accommodation varies from single bedsits fun and an ideal opportunity to make friends. In University system changes and an Orientation Residences Officers to multi-occupancy flats, and it is all located within the self- catering flats, which are grouped together Pack is sent out automatically from our Registry Hilary Smith - Commercial Services Manager easy walking or travelling distance to the University. on separate sites, students have their own study department which contains details on how to apply Lorraine McLean - Residences Officer bedroom and share a communal living/kitchen for accommodation online as well as other useful Gill Hunter - Residences Officer The self-catering flats are furnished and are area. Students therefore have daily contact with information. Tel: +44 (0)1382 308059 complete with standard kitchen facilities. There the people in their own flats, and in the other flats Email: [email protected] are now a significant number of self-catering flats situated on the same site. What will happen once you apply for University available with en-suite facilities and our residences accommodation? all have internet access (either wi-fi or hard This provides the ideal environment for arranging Once the Residences Team receives your application, wired). You can have the added peace of mind of nights out and entertainment, while the single study it will be processed in turn. We know you’ll be 25 26 Help at the university How to contact Student Services Student Services There are a number of specialist services within Tel: +44 (0) 1382 308051 the University’s Student Services Directorate that provide high- quality, professional, non- Email: [email protected] judgemental, confidential counselling, information, or [email protected] advice and guidance on issues related to money, wellbeing, disability and careers.

Where to find Student Services telephone or email. Level 2, the Bernard King Library. Tel: +44 (0)1382 308051 Email: [email protected] Advisory Service Medical care Religion We are here to help support you in your academic Student Academic Support and professional development by providing advice How you study is as important as what you study. which is professional, caring, student-centred and Student Academic Support is here to help you All students enrolling on an undergraduate or As a sea port, the City of Dundee has a long accessible. We provide support with funding issues, improve the way you study so you can improve your postgraduate course do not have to pay for history of welcoming visitors from overseas. alternative funding options, guidance on money grades. treatment under the National Health Service (NHS). Many faiths and cultures are represented in the management, international student support, visa This includes general medical treatment and any general population and the increasing size of the and immigration enquiries and all general welfare Here are some of the topics we can help you with: hospital or emergency treatment. All students are international student population means that the and pastoral support issues. If you are experiencing • Taking control of your own studies expected to pay for most dental treatment and eye City today is a lively and tolerant multicultural and any difficulties, or you would like advice, then please • Organising yourself and making the most of your tests including the prescription of glasses or contact multifaith community. do not hesitate to contact us by emailing advisory@ time lenses. abertay.ac.uk. • Thinking for yourself The University is a lively multi-faith and multi- • Effective reading and research skills From April 2015. Any student wishing to study in cultural institution. The Chaplaincy seeks to serve University Chaplaincy • Writing better coursework the UK for more than 6 months, will be required the whole University community in a spirit of The University has a number of honorary Chaplains • Proof-reading to apply for and pay for an Immigration Health openness, friendship and mutual respect. We who can be contacted at any time by contacting • Maths and statistics Surcharge (IHS) as part of your visa application maintain a directory of the many places of worship Student Services on 01382 308051 or email • Group work for the UK. For further information please visit in Dundee and together with contact [email protected]. • Revision and exam techniques www.gov.uk/healthcare-immigration-application/ numbers. We serve as a reference point for those overview. with particular faith needs and as a forum for Advisor for Students with Disabilities Furthermore please have a look at the following web dialogue between those of different faiths. For more information please log onto the following learning resource for international students coming IMPORTANT: You should still purchase health/ page on our website www.abertay.ac.uk/studying/ to study in the UK medical insurance in case you need to be The Chaplaincy is part of Student Services and support/ disabilities/ or alternatively you can www.prepareforsuccess.org.uk. repatriated to your home country to continue works closely with the Student Association. The hospitalisation and to be close to family. If you do Chaplaincy seeks to be a resource for the conscious not have this insurance it can cost you £5000+ to broadening and developing of the spiritual insight be airlifted home. The spouse and/or dependents of and ethical awareness of those willing to be eligible international students are also eligible for challenged by the broader implications of university NHS treatment. life.

When you arrive at the university it is important If you have any questions or require assistance to you register with a doctor as quickly as possible locate representatives of your religion either before (Directory of Doctors in the Dundee area can be or on arrival the Student Services Reception will found at the following link www.dundeecity.gov.uk, be glad to speak with you and offer all possible select the A-Z option and then ‘Doctors and Health assistance. Centres’). Student Services The University has a link with Hillbank Health Abertay University Centre who will be presenting during International Bell Street Welcome Week. Hillbank will advise you of how Dundee you can register with them and the services that DD1 1HG they offer. Hillbank also provides 1 hour each day Email: [email protected] dedicated to only seeing Abertay students, therefore Tel: +44 (0) 1382 308051 you are guaranteed to be seen very promptly if you are feeling unwell. The Health Centre is situated approximately 5-10 minutes walk from the University. For more information please log onto their website at the below address. www.hillbankhealthcentre.co.uk 27 28

Counselling Abertay Language Centre aim to develop your language skills so you can What is Counselling? Your first appointment with a counsellor is intended Intensive English for Academic Purposes communicate with confidence in and out of class. Counselling is an opportunity to discuss issues to provide information which will help you in Programme that are concerning or distressing you in a safe and deciding whether to opt for ongoing sessions and The Pre-Sessional Programme runs during the The English for Study confidential environment. It is an active process in guiding allocation decisions. We aim to offer a IEAP Programme runs for six weeks during July English for Study classes and workshops are which gives you the time and encouragement to first appointment as soon as possible after you have and August, and is for students from outside the provided FREE and are held throughout the explore your concerns more fully. This can help you contacted us – hopefully within 10 working days. You United Kingdom who plan to study for a degree at academic year. to see your problem from a different perspective will be offered ongoing appointments as soon as Abertay University. It is designed to help you get the and to increase your awareness of yourself, your possible thereafter. most from your time here by preparing you for your The classes are designed to support international situation and the choices open to you. Counselling degree, as well as helping you to familiarise yourself students with coursework and to help to is not advice, but it is about working with you to If you need to speak to someone urgently we with the university and the city of Dundee. And of develop the Academic English skills you need, find the best ways of understanding and resolving also have “on the day” appointments. Please see course, you’ll meet other students! including strategies for reading university texts, the issues which have been troubling you. Coming question entitled ‘Can I be seen today?’ understanding and planning different assignments, to see a counsellor can sometimes seem like a big Although some students are required to attend using sources, avoiding plagiarism, and improving step to take, but there are times when all of us may Can I be seen today? as a condition of their offer from the university, your accuracy when writing in English. Speaking need the support of someone else for things we If you feel that you can’t wait to speak to a the Intensive English for Academic Purposes classes both develop presentation and seminar are struggling with, and it is a sign of strength to counsellor you can use one of our “on the day” programme is recommended for all international skills and provide lots of practice. In addition we recognise this. appointments. These are available every afternoon students because of the benefits it provides. The run grammar workshops, to review and extend (Monday to Friday) and can be booked by calling programme consists of 20 hours of classes a week, your knowledge of the rules of English, and How do I make an appointment? into Student Services Reception or phoning 01382 focussing on developing the four skills: pronunciation classes which allow individualised The Counselling Service is open from 9.00am 308926. exercises and practice. For students undertaking to 5.00pm, Monday to Friday throughout the Writing: including understanding and planning long assignments, particularly postgraduates, year except when the University is closed in the different assignments, using sources, avoiding dissertation writing courses are held at different Christmas vacation. Counsellors meet with students plagiarism, and improving your accuracy. points during the academic year. on an appointment only basis, and the standard length of an appointment is 50 minutes. Reading: strategies to help you to read academic Details of upcoming classes can be found on books, journal articles and internet sources more Blackboard, in the Learning Zone section, along with You can make an appointment with the Counselling effectively. Listening: strategies for both formal details of how to register for classes. We also offer a Service by telephoning 01382 308926 or by emailing settings such as lectures, and informal discussions drop-in service for individual support, including help [email protected] or by speaking to staff in and conversations. with assignments – you can find us on level 2 of the Student Services Reception. Library. Speaking: including giving presentations and taking part in seminars. For more information: Contact Liz MacDougal, Successful study in the UK also involves other skills: Senior Language & Learning Development Advisor, academic literacy, critical thinking, independent Abertay Language Centre learning, and research skills. Additionally, we [email protected] plagiarism, and improving your accuracy when writing Details of upcoming classes can be found on Blackboard, 20 29 30 in English. Speaking classes both develop presentation in the Learning Zone section, along with details of how and seminar skills and provide lots of practice. In to register for classes. We also offer a drop-in service for addition we run grammar workshops, to review and individualUseful support, information including help with assignments – extend your knowledge of the rules of English, and you can find us on level 2 of the Library. pronunciation classes which allow individualised Contacting the University [Correspondence] Clothing ForPlease more makeinformation: sure that any contact made with the During autumn [October, November] and winter [December, January and exercises and practice. For students undertaking long University either by mail or Email has your correct February] months you should make sure you bring warm and waterproof Contact Liz MacDougal,Senior Language & Learning assignments, particularly postgraduates, dissertation full name as stated in your Passport. This will clothing with you, as the weather tends to get wet and cold and you may writing courses are held at different points during the Developmentensure your Advisor, application[s] Abertay Languageis processed Centre quickly and experience snowfall. effectively. academic year. [email protected] Shopping and Banks opening times Climate Dundee has the most sunshine hours in Scotland. The weather in Dundee can sometimes be Monday - Saturday 09:00 - 17:30/18.00 unpredictable. USEFUL INFORMATION General and Clothes Thursday (later 09:00 - 19:00/19:30 Shops Contacting the University [Correspondence] However, during during the the summer summer months months it can it be can warm be and opening hours) Please make sure that any contact made with the warmsunny. Onand the sunny. whole On the the climate whole is considered the climate mild. is considered mild. January and February is the Sunday 12:00 - 17:00 University either by mail or Email has your correct full January and February is the coldest time, when the coldest time, when the temperature can be below name as stated in your Passport. This will ensure your freezingtemperature at night, can be with below occasional freezing at snow.night, with Supermarkets Open 7 days 07:00 - 20:00 (some 24 hours) application[s] is processed quickly and effectively. occasional snow. Average Monthly Daytime Temperature range: Average Monthly Daytime Temperature range: Climate Monday - Friday 09:00 - 17:00 Dundee has the most sunshine hours in Scotland. The Banks and Building Saturday 09:00 - 12:00 weather in Dundee can sometimes be unpredictable. Societies Sunday Closed

Electricity Driving in the UK In the UK, electricity works on 240 volts/ 50 cycles If you are planning on driving in the UK you must and most sockets take 13amp square pin fused make sure of a valid driving licence and must also plugs. Please make sure if you bring any electrical make sure of the following: equipment with you that it is compatible. • The vehicle has been registered and has valid road If you wish to stay in Halls of Residence, tax for that particular vehicle. conditions may apply, please refer to your student • The driver of the vehicle has insurance against risk accommodation handbook. of injury to other people and vehicles. • The vehicle has passed its Ministry of Transport Test Cheques and Postal Orders (MOT). It is advisable to send any money by post using a bank cheque or postal order. Postal Orders can be If your licence was issued in the EEA you can drive easily obtained from the local post office. For more for as long as your licence remains valid or you can information log onto www.postoffice.co.uk/postal- apply at any time to exchange it for a British one. orders. If your licence expires while you are here and you Dundee Dundee is the wish to continue driving in the UK, you must obtain Over 60 has an overallsunniest city in nationalities arepopulation of overScotland 148,260 with with a 1400 Recorded Delivery, Registered Mail and Special a British licence. student population of represented in hours of sunshine Delivery approximately 40,000. 28our student per year. If you need to send important documentation for Please note that if you have not driven in the UK Dundeecommunity. example your passport(s) to the Home Office please previously, then it is beneficial to take at least two is the sunniest city in Scotland with 1400 hours of use Special or Registered mail. By sending your driving lessons in the UK in order to familiarise sunshine per year. documents using special or registered mail, you are yourself with the UK driving system. Over automatically given a receipt (including reference 60 nationalities are code), as proof of posting, and your parcel must be For more information log onto www.ukcisa.org.uk/ represented26% of our in our student signed for on delivery. You will also be able to track International-Students/Study-work--more/Other- Dundee has an studentscommunity. are overall population from overseas and trace where your parcel is within the postal useful-information/Driving. of over 148,260 26% and EU system using the post office website and reference with a studentof our students are countries. number from your receipt. population offrom overseas and approximately EU countries. 40,000. Back to contents page 31 32

Private Accommodation If you are looking to rent private accommodation in Dundee, the cost of renting per month can range from approximately £300 per month up to approximately £800 per month depending on what size of at you are looking to rent for example a 2, 3, 4 bed or larger.

The majority of flats for rent in the Dundee area are fully furnished. This means the at already has a bed, table, sofa/chairs, washing machine, cooker and fridge etc.

Please note that you may be able to find private accommodation cheaper than the approximately stated amounts above, however you must be aware that the cost of rent will be reflected by the age/contents and style of the at and the geographical position in Dundee.

The University holds no responsibility for the representation of private accommodation in Dundee nor can the University recommend or endorse any individual landlord or company when What has Dundee got to offer making your decision in choosing private accommodation. Dundee City Council has a landlord accreditation scheme to help you identify responsible landlords and approved landlords can be identified by London’s Trafalgar Sq has Nelson on his column, two universities, Islamic & Arabic Centre and a the logo below. For more information go to www.dundeecity.gov. Edinburgh’s Princes St has its monument to Sir college: , Abertay University, uk/housing/landlordaccreditation/. Walter Scott and Belfast has a statue of Queen Al-Maktoum Institute of Islamic & Arabic studies and Victoria outside City Hall. Dundee’s City Sq, on Dundee & Angus College which means over 40,000 For more information on how much accommodation costs, types the other hand, is graced - rather endearingly - by students study in the city each year. of accommodation, how to find the right accommodation for the bronze figure of Desperate Dan. Familiar to you and student reviews, please refer to the following link www. accommodationforstudents.com/Dundee.asp. generations of British school children, Dan is one of Within the last 20 years the software/gaming the best-loved cartoon characters from the children’s production industry in the city has grown comic the Dandy, published by Dundee firm DC dramatically and Dundee is now responsible for Thomson since 1937. 10% of Britain’s digital entertainment industry with an annual turnover of £100 million. Many popular Dundee enjoys perhaps the nest location of any gaming titles were produced in part or whole in Scottish city, spreading along the northern shore Dundee including Lemmings and Grand Theft Auto. of the Firth of Tay, and boasts tourist attractions of national importance in Discovery Point and Verdant Geographically, Dundee is in a prime position Works museum. Add in the attractive seaside town in Scotland. 90% of Scotland’s population lives of Broughty Ferry and the Dundonians themselves within 90 minutes of the city. Many people choose - among the friendliest, most welcoming and most to live in Dundee and commute elsewhere due entertaining people you’ll meet . . . to the relatively low cost of living compared to Glasgow, Edinburgh or Aberdeen. Dundee has a The waterfront around Discovery Point is currently population of approximately 148,260 and a travel to undergoing a massive redevelopment, preparing work population of 300,000 within 30 minutes and the ground for a branch of London’s Victoria & Albert 600,000 within 60 minutes drive. Museum (scheduled to open in 2017). Positioned on the shore of the river Tay and As Scotland’s fourth largest city (after Glasgow, surrounded by hills, the weather in Dundee is Edinburgh and Aberdeen), Dundee grew greatly unpredictable but on the whole mild. Dundee is in through the industries of Jute, Jam and Journalism, fact the sunniest city statistically in Scotland with a ectionately referred to as “The 3 J’s”. Dundee is 1400 hours of sunshine per year. very proud of its industrial heritage and many of the mill buildings repurposed into residential and Dundee has many student friendly areas and commercial properties. You will be able to see the is bustling with social areas and entertainment remnants of the Jute industry in the many public facilities. With theatres, nightclubs, exhibition buildings and parks which were gifted to the city spaces, cinemas, a science centre, restaurants, and its people by the mill owners. Contemporary a bowling alley, gyms, swimming pools and an Dundee can be labelled as “Three S’”; Science, observatory to name a few, you are spoilt for choice Schools and Software. The city is home to ground and never bored! breaking research regarding cancer drugs and treatments for HIV/ AIDS. Scientists have voted For more information log onto Dundee’s information Dundee University one of the world’s most attractive portal www.dundee.com. workplaces in an international poll. The city has 33 34 • Do I need an adapter for using the electricity with my hairdryer/notebook etc? Yes. You will need an adapter for using electricity. You will need to bring a square 3 pin fused adapter plug with you. You should be aware that some appliances will not work in the UK, as they do not have the ability to cope with 240 volts.

• Should I change some money in my home country or will there be a possibility at Edinburgh airport? It is advisable to bring some sterling £ with you. However there is a Bureau de Change in Edinburgh airport where you will be able to exchange traveller’s cheques or money.

• Where can I go shopping just after my arrival to get some food? There are a variety of large supermarkets and • Do I need private health insurance or is the • NHS wigs and fabric supports smaller specialist food stores available in Dundee: treatment under the National Health Service • Sight tests, glasses and contact lenses enough for Overseas students? • Travel to receive NHS treatment under the care of • Alnoor Halal Food Store All international students in full time education in a consultant 202 Blackness Road, Dundee, DD1 5PL Scotland are eligible for NHS (National Health Service) treatment, whatever the length of studies In order to be eligible for help or exemption, you • Bismallah Halal Food Store from the first day of arrival in Scotland. This also must complete an HC1 form, which is available 122a Hilltown, Dundee, DD3 7BG applies to their dependants, i.e. their spouse and from your local doctor’s surgery (GP) or post children under 16 years of age. It is still advisable office. You can download an HC1 form from • Zamzam Halal to take out private health care insurance in case the following webpage: www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/ 65 Perth Road, Dundee, DD1 4HY you need to be repatriated to your country to HealthCosts/1128.aspx continue hospitalisation. • Health Food Shop • Is the Scottish accent difficult to understand 95 Commercial Street, Dundee, DD1 2AF From April 2015. Any student wishing to study in and will I have any language problems in the the UK for more than 6 months, will be required lectures? • Lidl Supermarket West Marketgait to apply for and pay for an Immigration Health The Scottish accent is regional and therefore can Surcharge (IHS) as part of your visa application for be stronger in some areas. To accustom you to • Matthews Chinese Market the UK. For further information please visit www. the Scottish accent try viewing Abertay TV at Gellatly Street, Dundee, DD1 3DY gov.uk/healthcare-immigration-application/ www.youtube.com/user/abertayTV. Abertay TV overview will not only allow you to familiarise yourself with • Continental Food Store the Scottish accent, but allow you to view some 146 Hilltown, Dundee, DD3 7BJ • Do I need any specific vaccinations? of the University and students who are and who Tuberculosis and Meningitis‘C’strain are common have previously attended. You may also wish • Tesco Supermarket Riverside Drive (open 24hrs) worldwide and so it is important to make sure to log into BBC Radio Scotland www..co.uk/ Kingsway and the Murraygate (2 minutes from you are vaccinated against both before you scotland/radioscotland. It will normally take a the university) arrive in the UK. The UK has a national programme couple of weeks for your ear to become attuned to of vaccination against these two diseases. Up the accent. • The Guzzling Gourmet to date medical advice suggests that all students 127 Nethergate, Dundee, DD1 4DP should ensure they are vaccinated as students are If you have the required English language designated as a ‘high risk’ group for these proficiency, you shouldn’t have any difficulties in • Polish Deli diseases. lectures. 140 Cotton Road, Dundee, DD3 7BR

• Should I take lots of medicine with me or isn’t • Do I need warm clothes in September/ • Russian Food Store (Slavyanski) it that expensive in Scotland? October or is it OK if a package with winter 236 Blackness Road, Dundee, DD2 1RG Please only bring prescribed medicine including a clothes is sent on later? doctor’s letter explaining what each medicine During the months of September and October the • Bazar Food Store is with you. For all other medicines, they can be weather begins to turn colder and wetter and Victoria Road, Dundee purchased quite cheaply at a pharmacy. therefore it is recommended that you bring suitable clothes with you, however you can have • Shop Africana • Can I get assistance with health costs? heavier weight clothing sent on to you before 262 Hilltown Yes. As a student you may be eligible for full or November. part exemption towards the cost of the following: • Wing Fung Cash and Carry • NHS Dental treatment 45-47 Trades Lane 35 36 Countries which students are from • Is it safe to drink the water? • Does the University have a swimming pool? Yes, in the UK it is safe to drink water from the tap. No, unfortunately the University does not have a Austria Indonesia Palestine swimming pool; however there is a fully equipped • How can I improve my English? gymnasium for your use. The nearest swimming Bahrain Iran Poland When you start your degree course you will be pool is an approximate 5-minute walk from the able to enrol on free English study classes, which University campus and as a student you will also Bangladesh Ireland Portugal will help with your coursework and understanding receive a discount on all leisure activities at all Belgium Israel Romania during lectures. leisure centres in Dundee. For more information on sports available at the University log onto Bulgaria Italy Rwanda The University also has a Student Academic www.sport.abertay.ac.uk. Canada Japan Saudi Arabia Support centre where they offer sessions on essay writing, presentation skills, exam techniques and • What societies and clubs does the University China Singapore much more. offer? Cyprus Kuwait Slovakia The University offers a range of societies and For further information on English Study classes clubs from football, basketball and skydiving to Czech Republic Latvia South Korea please log onto www.abertay.ac.uk/courses/ poker (card game), to rock music and much more. ug/english or alternatively if you require further There is also an International Student Society Denmark Libya Spain information on our Student Academic Support (ISS). The ISS is run by international students Estonia Lithuania Sweden centre please log onto www.abertay.ac.uk/ for international students. The society’s aim is studying/support/academic. to organise the social side of University life, for Finland Luxembourg Switzerland example organising day trips to Edinburgh Castle France Malawi Taiwan • Should I bring my IELTS/TOEFL certificate with and Loch Ness while organising regular cultural, me? social and sports events. Guiana Malaysia Thailand Yes. Please make sure you bring your certificates with you, as you will be required to provide The International Student Society is your Gambia Malta Trinidad & Tobago evidence of your English language proficiency. opportunity to have your say in the social side of Germany Mauritius Turkey University life and it’s a great opportunity for you This does not apply to EU Articulation Scheme to meet students from all corners of the world. Ghana Nepal United States of America students. For those students their home university For more information log onto the Abertay Greece Netherlands Venezuela must sign their EU Articulation Scheme Student Union Association website at Application Form to confirm ability in the English www.uadsa.com. Hong Kong Niger Vietnam language. EU Articulation Scheme students do not Hungary Nigeria Zambia need to send or bring other proof of proficiency. • How can I prepare myself for Academic Life in the UK? Iceland Norway • Should I insure my belongings and if so how There are various ways in which you can prepare do I do this? yourself for life in the UK and there may be India Pakistan Yes, you should insure all your personal various aspects of living in the UK which concern belongings when you arrive in the UK. For you. The following website has been created in more information on how to insure your personal order to give you an insight into what it is like to belongings log onto www.endsleigh.co.uk. study in the UK. www.prepareforsuccess.org.uk 37 38

International Abertay

Student views • “Cultural preparations prior to arrival in the UK Really want to know why previous and current – get info about Scotland, Dundee and Abertay Abertay students chose to come to Abertay – want (there are even some quite good articles about it to know their top tips and handy hints of living and on Wikipedia) and on the way of living in Scotland studying in Dundee, then read on. before you arrive.”

Top Tips and Handy Hints: • “Don’t rush to get accommodation prior to arrival, • “A good way to meet Scottish students is to join it is easy to find one here all kinds of comfort, all sports and cultural societies.” kinds of budget and don’t be shy on the arrival: it’s an occasion to make good friends” • “I found my English Language skills improved by living with students not from my home country and • “EU students are eligible for SAAS (Students my outlook on life also improved.” Awards Agency for Scotland) funding to pay for tuition fees – only available in Scotland.” • “Practical preparation prior to arrival in the UK, check with your home bank to see if they have a • “Lots of international students at Abertay – can connection with a UK bank. If they do, it is much meet and learn about other cultures.” easier to set up a bank account in the UK from home before you actually arrive.” • “Studying in another country makes your experience in any branch of life bigger, better and • “Remember personal insurance.” more useful in further life.”

• “If you have never been away from home, ask • “A very good trip is visit Edinburgh Castle, Whisky family about everyday things such as cooking, distillery and the Isle of Skye.” cleaning, laundry, ironing and managing a budget.” 39 40

Useful addresses and telephone numbers

Student Services Student Recruitment Office Abertay University Student Services Abertay University Level 2, Library Bell Street Bell Street Dundee DD1 1HG Dundee DD1 1HG T: +44(0) 1382 308080 F: +44(0) 1382 308081 T: +44(0) 1382 308051 E: [email protected] W: www.abertay.ac.uk F: +44(0) 1382 308122 E: [email protected] Residences Office W: www.abertay.ac.uk Abertay University Bell Street The Advisory Service Dundee DD1 1HG Abertay University Student Services T: +44(0) 1382 308059 Level 2, Library F: +44(0) 1382 308118 Bell Street E: [email protected] Dundee DD1 1HG W: www.abertay.ac.uk T: +44(0) 1382 308051 F: +44(0) 1382 308122 E: [email protected] W: www.abertay.ac.uk/ Useful organisations

Outside the University UK Banks Citizens Advice Bureau Dundee Bank of Scotland Dundee Central Library www.bankofscotland.co.uk Travel websites Level 4 Wellgate Centre Dundee DD1 1DB Clydesdale Bank T: +44(0) 1382 307494 www.clydesdalebank.co.uk Edinburgh Airport [Getting into the City Centre from Airport] W: www.dundeecab.org www.edinburghairport.com Santander Immigration Advisory Service (IAS) www.santander.co.uk Glasgow Airport 115 Bath Street www.glasgowairport.com Glasgow G2 2SZ Royal Bank of Scotland T: +44(0) 141 248 2956 www.rbs.co.uk Virgin Trains F: +44(0) 141 221 5388 www.virgintrains.co.uk Telephone advice line: +44(0) 141 222 4888 Nat West Bank Email: [email protected] www.natwest.com East Coast Trains W: www.iaservices.org www.eastcoast.co.uk Halifax Bank British Council www.halifax.co.uk Scotrail Trains W: www.britishcouncil.org.uk www.scotrail.co.uk HSBC Foreign and Commonwealth Office www.hsbc.com Train line timetable – for information on visas W: www.fco.gov.uk www.thetrainline.com

United Kingdom Council for International Student CityLinking Coach service Affairs (UKCISA) www.citylink.co.uk 9 – 17 St Albans Place London N1 0NX Megasbus (Very cheap bus fares, can only be booked online) T: +44(0) 020 7107 9922 W: www.ukcisa.org.uk www.megabus.com

Dundee City Council Travel Line Scotland www.travelinescotland.com Dundee DD1 3RZ T: +44(0) 1382 434000 For Cheaper flights to the UK and Europe W: www.dundeecity.gov.uk www.skyscanner.net 41 42

The visa national list 2017

• Afghanistan • Gambia • Peru • Albania • Georgia • Philippines • Algeria • Ghana • Qatar • Angola • Guinea • Russia • Armenia • Guinea-Bissau • Rwanda • Azerbaijan • Guyana • Sao Tome e Principe • Bahrain • Haiti • Saudi Arabia • Bangladesh • India • Senegal • Belarus • Indonesia • Serbia • Benin • Iran • Sierra Leone • Bhutan • Iraq • • Bolivia • Ivory Coast • Sri Lanka • Bosnia-Herzegovina • Jamaica • Sudan • Burkina Faso • Jordan • Surinam • Burma • Kazakhstan • Swaziland • Burundi • Kenya • Syria • Cambodia • Korea (North) • Taiwan • Cameroon • Kuwait • Tajikistan • Cape Verde • Kyrgyzstan • Tanzania • Central African • Lesotho • Thailand Republic • Liberia • Togo • Chad • Libya • Tunisia • People’s Republic of • Macedonia • Turkey China • Madagascar • Turkmenistan • Colombia • Malawi • Uganda • Comoros • Mali • Ukraine • Congo • Mauritania • United Arab Emirates • Cuba • Moldova • Uzbekistan • Democratic Republic • Mongolia • Venezuela • Dominican Republic • Morocco • Vietnam • Ecuador • Mozambique • Yemen • Egypt • Nepal • Zambia • Equatorial Guinea • Niger • Zimbabwe • Eritrea • Nigeria • The territories formerly • Ethiopia • Oman comprising the socialist • Fiji • Pakistan • Federal Republic of • Gabon Yugoslavia abertay.ac.uk Student Services Abertay University | Bell Street | Dundee | Scotland | DD1 1HG

T: +44 (0)1382 308051 @AbertayAdvisory F: +44 (0)1382 308118 E: [email protected] Abertay Advisory

Switchboard: +44 (0)1382 308000 Abertay Advisory Abertay University is an operating name of the University of Abertay Dundee, a charity registered in Scotland No: SC016040.