Guide for Incoming Exchange Students 2020-2021

Global Opportunities Cyfleoedd Byd-eang GUIDE FOR INCOMING EXCHANGE STUDENTS 20-2021 YOUR ARRIVAL CHECKLIST www.cardiff.ac.uk/new-students 01 YOUR ARRIVAL HELLO AND CHECKLIST WELCOME We are delighted that you have BEFORE YOU ARRIVE decided to study at Cardiff University Apply for University residences and look forward to you joining us (if you are eligible) ...... 02 soon. Book transport to Cardiff ...... 10 We know that you will have many things to arrange before Sign your residences contract ...... 04 you come to Cardiff and it is sometimes difficult to know (if you are eligible) where to start. We hope that this Guide will help you in your preparations and give you an idea of what to expect when Enrol online ...... 22 you arrive. Please note that information regarding visas has been sent separately. Plan your budget ...... 16 This Guide also contains contact details of many people Pack your suitcase and who will be able to offer you help and support throughout hand luggage ...... 08 your studies. Please feel free to contact any of them now or Prepare for your studies ...... 22 drop in and see them once you are in Cardiff - they are there to help you.

We look forward to meeting you! WHEN YOU ARRIVE Tell your family you have arrived .. 19 NEED HELP? Complete enrolment ...... 22 Get your student ID card* ...... 23 If you are uncertain about what to do, have any worries in the first few weeks of term or want advice before you Register with the police ...... 13 come to Cardiff, we will be very happy to help you. (if applicable) Open your bank account ...... 18 GLOBAL OPPORTUNITIES Register with a doctor ...... 36 ERASMUS+ Access the internet ...... 19 Email: [email protected] Attend international Tel: + induction events* ...... 14 STUDY ABROAD & INTERNATIONAL EXCHANGE Attend any induction events Email: [email protected] in your academic school* ...... 15 Tel: Induction tasks* ...... 14 Exchange students completing one semester only to obtain Council Tax Letter from home University ...... 07 BEFORE YOU ARRIVE WEBSITE

*The health and safety of our students is of the utmost importance. Therefore, the way in which some events are run this year may For full updated information you should regularly visit change due to the COVID-19 outbreak. the website: www.cardiff.ac.uk/new- students/before-you-arrive www.cardiff.ac.uk/new-students

CONTENTS

Accommodation 02 What to bring 08 Travelling to Cardiff 10 The Induction programme 14 Living Expenses 16 Communications 19 Studying at Cardiff University 22 Help and advice 27 Living in Cardiff 28 Working in the UK 33 Staying safe and healthy 35 Useful contacts 37 Map 38

The pulp used in the production of this paper is obtained from sustainably managed Scandinavian tree farms and utilises an elementary chlorine-free bleaching process. Edited by: .LPEHUOH\&ROH and Heledd George VISAS & IMMIGRATION // FOR STUDENTS FROM OUTSIDE THE EUROPEAN ECONOMIC AREA (EEA) OR SWITZERLAND www.cardiff.ac.uk/new-students 02

HOW DO I APPLY FOR UNIVERSITY RESIDENCES? You should have received an email telling you how to apply online for University Residences. If you have not yet received information please contact Global Opportunities as soon as possible: Tel: +44 (0) 29 22 518 888 or email [email protected] ACCOMMODATION

,$0$)8//<($5 (;&+$1*(678'(17 ,681,9(56,7< $&&2002'$7,21 *8$5$17(('" Yes, however you must:

6XEPLW\RXURQOLQHDSSOLFDWLRQE\ 7KXUVGD\6$XJXVW20 :+(1:,//,%( +2:'2,,1)250 5HFHLYHDFFHSWDQXQFRQGLWLRQDORIIHU $//2&$7(' 5(6,'(1&(622)$1< WRVWXG\E\Monday $XJXVW20 81,9(56,7<5(6,'(1&(6" 63(&,$/5(48,5(0(176" $FFHSW\RXURQOLQH2IIHURI5HVLGHQFH Before residences are allocated, you If you have any special accommodation ZLWKLQGD\VRI\RXUURRPEHLQJ must have firmly accepted your requirements, such as a disabilityor DOORFDWHG unconditional offer to study at Cardiff medical condition which you would like $UULYHDQGFROOHFW\RXUURRPNH\ZLWKLQ University. Your residencesapplication is taken into account in the allocation of WKHGDWHVWLPHVVSHFLILHGLQWKH$UULYDO then processed in date order according your accommodation, or of which your ,QIRUPDWLRQ to two dates. The first is the date the ResidencesManager should be made For more information see: ResidencesOffice receives confirmation aware, please note this on your online of your unconditional offer to study; the https://www.cardiff.ac.uk/new-students/ application. The ResidencesOffice willtry second is the date the Residences Office to meet your needs when allocating your when-you-arrive/moving-in/arriving receives your online residences accommodation. You should tellthem application. about your special requirementseven if they would not apply if you wereallocated ◗ +2:08&+:,// 8QGHUJUDGXDWHV (Autumn/Full a room in the accommodationyou have 81,9(56,7<5(6,'(1&(6 Year)8QLYHUVLW\ chosen. Only informationprovided at the &267" UHVLGHQFHVZLOOEHDOORFDWHGLQ-XO\ time of the application,along with written WKURXJKWR6HSWHPEHU confirmation from adoctor, will be taken Your residences fees will vary depending ◗ Undergraduates (Spring): University into account by theResidencesOffice in on the type of accommodation and residences will be allocated on a first the allocationprocess. All disability/ facilities you choose. For information come first served basis. medical informationprovided will be regarding the costs of University treated confidentially and only used in ◗ 3RVWJUDGXDWHVDOORFDWLRQZLOOEHLQ residences, please download the allocating you accommodation. -XO\WKURXJKWR6HSWHPEHU

Your allocation will be sent by email, so it The cost of your accommodation will be is important you have access to your included in your offer of residence. emails in the summer. ACCOMMODATION // www.cardiff.ac.uk/new-students 04

:+(1'2,1(('723$< )250<81,9(56,7< 5(6,'(1&(6" All feesfor residences, as well as most of the associated charges such as the Parking Permit, are payable by either:

◗ &UHGLWGHELWFDUGLQIXOOLQDGYDQFHRU RQDUULYDO ◗ 'LUHFWGHELWIURPD8.EDQNDFFRXQW SD\DEOHLQWKUHHLQVWDOPHQWVDIWHU\RX DUULYH )RUPRUHLQIRUPDWLRQDERXW RSHQLQJD8.EDQNDFFRXQWVHHSDJH 18)XUWKHUGHWDLOVRIORFDOEDQNVcan be foundRQWKH website. )RUGHWDLOVRQWKHSD\PHQW dates for UHVLGHQFHVIHHVE\GLUHFW debit for /21SOHDVHVHH: https://www.cardiff.ac.uk/new-students/ before-you-arrive/accommodation-and- :,//,+$9(0<2:1 :,//,+$9($7(/(3+21( moving-here/paying-for-your-residence 5220" ,10<5220" It is important to pay your residences No, most students have mobile phonesor Yes, you will have your own study feeson time. Late payment will mean use Skype. See page 20 for more bedroom – Cardiff University does not that you will incur an initial 5% charge. If information on buying a mobile phone and have shared rooms or dormitories. You the payment remains outstanding after staying in touch. will have to share a kitchen/living space 15 days, you will incur a further 5% with the other people in your flat or charge on the balance outstanding. house. :+$7,63529,'(',1 :+$77<3(2) 81,9(56,7<5(6,'(1&(6" 81,9(56,7< :,//,+$9(0<2:1 All rooms have: a bed with mattress, a %$7+5220" desk and chair, a bookshelf, a wardrobe $&&2002'$7,21,,6 and a waste paper bin. All residences $9$,/$%/(" Around 70% of University study have: an ironing board and iron, a bedrooms have a private bathroom dustpan and brush, a kitchen bin, a mop The Residences website contains full (called ensuite). Other rooms have and bucket a microwave, a kettle, a details of the accommodationavailable: shared toilets and washing facilities toaster, a notice-board and (usually shared between four to eight blinds/curtains. people). If a private bathroom is 3OHDVHVHHWKHIROORZLQJZHEVLWHIRUPRUH important to you, you should prioritise LQIRUPDWLRQRQZKDWWREULQJ Most of the options are self-catered (i.e. en-suite accommodationin your KWWSVZZZFDUGLIIDFXNQHZVWXGHQWV cook your own meals) where you share Residencesapplication. EHIRUH\RXDUULYHDFFRPPRGDWLRQDQG kitchen space with your flatmates. There PRYLQJKHUHZKDWWREULQJ is a part-catered option at some residences, and a fully-catered option at :,//,+$9($&&(6672 the female-only residence Aberdare Hall. +,*+63((',17(51(7,,1 0<5220" $5(7+(5(0$/(21/< Yes, all study bedrooms are equipped 25)(0$/(21/<+$//6 with network connection points and 7KH5HVLGHQFHV wireless access. The cost of all this is 2)5(6,'(1&(6" included in your residences fees. More ZHEVLWHFRQWDLQVIXOO All of our residences, like most other UK information on connecting to the network universities, are mixed. You can however will be provided in your arrivals guide. express a preference for a male or GHWDLOVRI8QLYHUVLW\ female-only flat if you wish. The only exception to this is Aberdare Hall, where DFFRPPRGDWLRQ the entire hall of residence is for female students only. ACCOMMODATION // www.cardiff.ac.uk/new-students 05

WHICH HALLS OF RESIDENCE IS NEAREST MY SCHOOL? Use the map in the back of this brochure to work out how close your accommodation will be to your School. The nearest residences is not necessarily the best and you should think about the environment you want to live in (for example Talybont has a sports centre on site and is very close to a big supermarket). If you’re not sure what building you will be studying in, contact Global Opportunities on [email protected]

7+,1*6<28·//1((',1 Spring Semester Students: You should collect 7(0325$5< your key on the first day of your <28581,9(56,7< residential period; this information will be $&&2002'$7,21,1 5(6,'(1&( in your ResidencesAgreement. More &$5',)) information about arriving at your You will need to provide your own accommodationis on page 12. If you are planning to spend some time in pillow, bedding, towels, personal Cardiff prior to the start of term you could crockery, cutlery, saucepans and other think about taking a room in a hotel, cooking utensils. You can buy all of this hostel or bed & breakfast. All types of cheaply in Cardiff, so do not bring this accommodationcan be found near the with you because your suitcase will be +2:/21*&$1,67$<,1 campus and the central city area. You too heavy to carry! See page 8 for what 81,9(56,7<5(6,'(1&(6" can find further information on to bring with you. accommodationin Cardiff from the All Cardiff University residencesallow Cardiff Visitor Centre, which provides an you to stay during term time and the accommodationbooking service. :+(1&$1,029(,172 Christmas and Easter vacations. 0<81,9(56,7< Telephone with your credit card details +44 (029 2087 3573 or email $&&2002'$7,21" [email protected] Autumn Semester and Full Year students: you will be notified closer to your arrival as to when you are Alternatively, self-catered able to move into your room. accommodationmay be available at the University. For more information You need to time your arrival so that and costs see the ResidencesOffice is open to collect your keys. Details of our office opening hours can be found in your Arrival Information at: https://www.cardiff.ac.uk/new- students/when-you-arrive/moving-in/ arriving ACCOMMODATION // www.cardiff.ac.uk/new-students 06 PRIVATE ACCOMMODATION IN CARDIFF There is plenty of accommodationin Cardiff that is let out by private landlords to students. Such accommodation consists of shared houses and flats. Occasionally you may find a room in a house that you would share with the landlord/lady.

residences, where most bills are included, /22.,1*)2535,9$7( +267)$0,/< you will find that when you rent private $&&2002'$7,21)520 25*$1,6$7,216 accommodation you may have to pay for additional things. These are likely to <285+20(&28175< If you choose a host family, you will live include: with a couple or a family sharing facilities We would not advise arranging long-term such as a living room, bathroom and rented accommodationfrom overseas. It ◗ A refundable security deposit which kitchen. Your host would provide a family is best to come to Cardiff before the start will be returned to you after you leave environment and an opportunity for you of your course and reserve a room in a the property providing that no damage to learn the language and experience a hotel, hostel or bed & breakfast whileyou has been done different culture. This accommodationis look for suitable privateaccommodation. often rented on a weekly basis, usually ◗ Water, electricity, gas, telephone and It is very difficult to finda room/house if including breakfast and sometimes internet bills you are not in Cardiff. evening meals on request. ◗ Insurance ◗ You may have to pay multiple months &$5',))678'(17 of your rent in advance if you do not /(77,1*$*(1&< have a relative or friend living in the This is the best place to start looking for UK who can act as a guarantor and private accommodation. Cardiff Student +2:08&+'2(6 who will agree to pay your rent if you Letting Agency is owned and run by have money problems and can't pay it. Cardiff University Students’ Union. This 35,9$7( letting agency is keen to keep the cost to $&&2002'$7,21&&267 students at a minimum and does not &281&,/7$; charge an agency fee. For further ,1&$5',))" Council Tax is a British property tax that The cost of private accommodationwill information about the services provided is paid to the local council for local vary depending on the location, the size by the Cardiff Student Letting Agency see servicing including rubbish collection, the and quality of the flat or house and police and fire service. If you are coming whether or not bills are included in the to Cardiff for the full academic year, you cost of rent. On average the cost of will automatically be exempt from this renting a room in a house you share with tax. others will cost around £300 a month, excluding your bills for water, gas, electricity and insurance. Unlike University ACCOMMODATION // www.cardiff.ac.uk/new-students

You may be able to stay in University summer residences while 07 you search for private accommodation see Student ,$067$<,1*,1&$5',)) 7KH\DOVRKDYHLQIRUPDWLRQWRKHOS\RX Summer Residences: ILQGDFFRPPRGDWLRQ7RFRQWDFWHPDLO )25/(667+$1 www.cardiff.ac.uk/summer [email protected] :((.6+2:'2, ,I\RXZRXOGOLNHIXUWKHUDGYLFHRQILQGLQJ %(&20((;(037)520 SULYDWHDFFRPPRGDWLRQSOHDVHemail 3$<,1*&281&,/7$;" [email protected] If you are an Erasmus+ student andyour completed this process, you will be able to exchange placement is less than 24 request a Council Tax Exemption Certificate weeks you will need to provide theCouncil via your student record. You will then need in Cardiff with a letter from yourhome '2,1((',1685$1&( to post both letters to the Council at the University, along with a Council Tax following address: )250<3(5621$/ Exemption Certificate from Cardiff University in order to become exemptfrom 3266(66,216" Cardiff Council, paying the tax. Yes, we strongly encourage students to Council Tax Office, insure personal possessions against PO Box 9000, Cardiff, The letter from your home Universitymust damage, loss or theft. If you live in include the following: CF10 3WD Cardiff University residences, you are automatically given £5000 worth of ◗ your Cardiff address ,QWHUQDWLRQDO([FKDQJHVWXGHQWVPD\QHHG personal possessions insurancecover ◗ the start date and end date of your WRSD\&RXQFLO7D[IRUSULYDWH from Endsleigh Insurance; you do not degree programme DFFRPPRGDWLRQLQ&DUGLII7KLVZLOOEHLQ have to fill in any forms for this cover - it ◗ the start date and end date of your DGGLWLRQWRDQ\UHQWDQGELOOVGXH

DO NOT BRING TOO MUCH! WHAT TO BRING

This section will give you +2:08&+021(< &$1,%5,1*0< an idea of what to pack 6+28/',%5,1*" &20387(572&$5',))" Bring enough moneyto cover your costs Yes, you can bring your laptop with youto when coming to study in for the first two weeks as you would if Cardiff University but you should checkit the UK and the items you you were going on holiday. You will can work with UK sockets. It is also probably have to buy beddingand some important to make sure that your laptop should leave behind. basic essentials at the beginning of your is insured for travel and your stay in stay, so we recommend you bring about Cardiff. £400. Do not bring large amounts of :+$77<3(2) cash, as cash can easily be lost and the &/27+(66+28/', University cannot guard it for you. %5,1*" Students dress very informally in the UK in jeans, t-shirts and jumpers. You will also want to bring a warm jumper, jacket and waterproof coat with you for the winter and wet weather. Rain showers PLEASE TRY NOT TO BRING MORE THAN TWO SUITCASES are to be expected any time of the year, so waterproof clothing and shoes are AND MAKE SURE THAT YOU CAN LIFT AND CARRY THESE essential. SUITCASES. AT SOME POINT YOU WILL HAVE TO CARRY We recommend that you do not buy too YOUR LUGGAGE WHEN YOU ARRIVE IN THE UK. many winter clothesuntil you get to Cardiff. TRAVELLING TO CARDIFF // www.cardiff.ac.uk/new-students 09 &$1,%5,1*(/(&75,&$/ 352'8&76727+(8." Please only bring small items such as hairdryers, shavers and laptops. Before you bring an electricalitem, you should make sure that it is safe to use and compatible with the UK voltage system: 220V. You might need an international voltage converter. You will also probably need a plug adapter that is British Standard compliant (BS1363). Usually, these converters and adapters are available in travel and luggageshops, electronic stores, and airports.

6+28/',%5,1*0<2:1 &22.,1*87(16,/6" No, do not bring cooking utensilswith you. Your case will be too heavy for you to carry! You can buy saucepans, plates and other cooking utensilsvery cheaply from supermarkets close to University residences. Please see page 4 for information about what is provided in your residencesand private accommodation.

&$1,%5,1*)22')520 6+28/',%5,1*0<2:1 &$1,%5,1*0<02%,/( +20(" %('',1*" 3+21(" Do not bring any food into the UK. There We do not advise you to bring bedding More information about mobile phones is are many food items which are illegal to with you. If you are staying in University available on page 20. If you’re not bring into the UK including all dairy, meat accommodation, you can can order a bringing a mobile phoneyou may find it and potatoes. You will find that Cardiff beddingpack from the ResidencesOffice useful to have a credit card or, if has many international food stores, and before you arrive. This contains the possible, a small amount of loose large supermarkets where you will be following: duvet and duvet cover, single change, so you can call home when you able to find many ingredients available in sheet, pillow, pillow case, hand and bath first arrive. your home country. For more information towel. on banned foods see the website Alternatively, you can buy bedding +2:&$1,&217$&7 cheaply from Cardiff Market, Tesco 27+(5678'(176 Supermarket, Primark Home or Shaws the Drapers when you arrive. %()25(,$55,9(" 6(1',1*$1'6725,1* The Erasmus+ and International Exchange <285/8**$*( Teams have set up Facebook Groups where all Unfortunately, Cardiff University is unable exchange students coming to study at Cardiff to receive any of your luggagebefore University can make friends, discuss travel your arrival in Cardiff. However, there are plans and talk about Cardiff. Click the link several companies that offer services to below to join the group: students who wish to transport excess luggage. They can arrange for your Incoming Exchange Students Facebook Group luggageto be put into storage until you arrive, when it can be delivered to you. For further details see TRAVELLING TO CARDIFF // www.cardiff.ac.uk/new-students 10

TRAVELLING TO CARDIFF Cardiff University is located in the centre of Cardiff, which is easily accessible from London airports. To make your journey to Cardiff easier we provide a free airport pick-up service in September, but if you are arriving outside of the airport pick-up service time it is easy to get to Cardiff on your own. When you arrive in Cardiff the first thing you should do is go straight to your accommodation.

:+,&+$,532576+28/' :+(16+28/',$55,9( ,$55,9($7,17+(8." ,17+(8." Most of Cardiff’s incoming students You should arrive in advance of student arrive at Heathrow Airport, which is induction and in time for in-person around 18 miles/29 km southwest of lectures, if these are being held within London. The airport is around 4 hours your academic school. (GLQEXUJK travel time from Cardiff. You can also However, please ensure that you arrive arrive at Cardiff Airport, which is only 30 on a date that complies with your visa minutes travel time from the University regulations (if applicable). %HOIDVW or Bristol Airport which is about 1 hour If you are starting later on in the Spring and 20 minutes from Cardiff University. semester (e.g. February onwards), you should check with your School for when you are expected to arrive in %LUPLQJKDP

Cardiff. /RQGRQ CARDIFF %ULVWRO

&DUGLII WR /RQGRQ PLOHVNP TRAVELLING TO CARDIFF // www.cardiff.ac.uk/new-students 11

TRAVELLING INDEPENDENTLY TO CARDIFF UNIVERSITY FROM HEATHROW BY COACH BY TRAIN BY TAXI Thecheapest way to travel to Cardiff is Train travel is more expensive than Travelling by taxi is a very expensive by National Express coach. Coaches travelling by coach and you will option and not advisable. A taxi to leave approximately every hour, with have to change trains. Take the Cardiff from Heathrow would cost fewer coaches leaving during the Heathrow Express train from around £200. This could be an option night. A single journey from Heathrow Heathrow Airport into Paddington if there were a few of you travelling to to Cardiff takes about 3 hours and 30 Station in London. Trains leave split the cost but you will not be able minutes.u Yo can buy your ticket every 15 minutes from all to have much luggage. online or the National Express terminals at Heathrow to London. Booking Office in Heathrow airport. Once at Paddington you take the train to Cardiff. On weekdays the train to Cardiff from Paddington leaves every 30 minutes. A single journey from Heathrow to Cardiff will be around £65 -£205 and the journey time is 3 hours. Tickets can be bought online at www.thetrainline.com (it’s usually cheaper in advance) or at the ticket office at the railway station in the airport. TRAVELLING TO CARDIFF // www.cardiff.ac.uk/new-students 12 TRAVELLING :+$7,), $55,9(($5/< INDEPENDENTLY BEFORE MY MOVE IN FROM CARDIFF DATE" If you are staying in University accommodation, your allocated room will AIRPORT not be available before your allocated date. So if you intend to arrive in Cardiff before A taxi from Cardiff Airport will cost around this date you will need to make your own £33 and can be hired from the Flight Link arrangements for temporary taxi office in the Arrivals Building or accommodationuntil the start of the booked in advance, telephone +44 residential period. Please be aware that if (0)1446 728500 or email you arrive on a Saturday or Sunday Global [email protected] Opportunities will not be open. The T9 busservice runs from Cardiff Airport every 30 minutes during the day :+$7,),$55,9(/$7(" Monday – Sunday. A single ticket costs£ All keys for University residencesmustbe and the journey takes 45 minutes. collected within your allocated time frame, otherwise your room may be given to $55,9,1*$7&$5',)) someone else. Please contact the ResidencesOffice if you think you are 5$,/:$<67$7,21 going to be arriving late. If you are arriving by train you will arrive Email: [email protected] atthe railway station in the centre of Cardiff.We recommend that you then take .(<&2//(&7,21)25 a taxito your accommodation. There will betaxiswaiting at a taxi rank outside 1216(37(0%(5 thestation and taxi fares to University 67$57(56 residencescost between £8 – £12 If you are not starting your course depending on where your in September, and not participating accommodationis and how much in January induction, you should collect luggageyou arecarrying. More information yourkeys on the first day that your about taxisison page 29. residencescontract starts, (see your 81(;3(&7('/$7( residencescontract or agreement). $55,9,1*$7&$5',)) $55,9$/6 %8667$7,21 If you arrive unexpectedly late in the evening or early in the morning and you If you are arriving by coachor busyou will have not been able to inform the arrive at the busstation in Sophia Gardens. You will need to take a taxi from Residences Office of your late arrival, you there to your accommodation. Call a should go directly to the Security Centre localtaxi service on +44(0)2920 333 333 next to the Psychology Tower block, YOU MAY BE ABLE TO opposite 51 Park Place (map reference BUY A DISCOUNT CARD :+$76+28/','2 :+(1 2). The Security Centre will contact your University Residence and arrange for you FOR COACH AND/OR RAIL ,$55,9( $7 7+( to have access to your accommodation. 81,9(56,7<" TRAVEL WHEN YOU ARRIVE. After making your way independently to :+(5('2,3,&.837+( MORE DETAILS ARE Cardiff you should check how to collect your keysfor your University Residence at: .(<6720<81,9(56,7< $&&2002'$7,21" ON PAGE 18 If you use the airport pick-up service service, you will be taken to your University Residence and a member of staff will be on-hand to give you your keys. For details on key collectionsee VISAS & IMMIGRATION // FOR STUDENTS FROM OUTSIDE THE EUROPEAN ECONOMIC AREA (EEA) OR SWITZERLAND www.cardiff.ac.uk/new-students 13 REGISTERING WITH THE POLICE

'2,1(('725(*,67(5 :,7+7+(32/,&(" If you are from one of the following countries and are issued with a visa for longer than six months you will need to See: register with the police within seven days +2:'2,5(*,67(5 of your arrival in the UK: :,7+7+(32/,&(" 3ROLFHRIILFHUVZLOOEHDWWKH8QLYHUVLW\ Afghanistan Lebanon VR\RXFDQPDNHDQDSSRLQWPHQWWR UHJLVWHUZLWKWKHPZKHQ\RXDUULYHLQ You must take the following with you to Algeria Libya &DUGLII your appointment: Argentina Moldova Armenia Morocco 7KHSROLFHPD\DOVRDUUDQJHWLPHV ◗ Your passport Azerbaijan North Korea ZKHUHVWXGHQWVFDQUHJLVWHUDW&DUGLII ◗ Two passport-sized photographs Bahrain Oman 5XPQH\3ROLFH6WDWLRQ

If you need to register with the police What’s changed What documents/evidence required: it will normally state this on your Student Route visa or on the grant University Accommodation = letter recieved from the Home Office. Residence card only Private Accommodation = tenancy Any family/dependants travelling Change of address with you will also need to register agreement, or accommodation with the police. You should check contract, or gas/electric/water bill that shows your new address your visa carefully, and if you have this requirement then you should Print out of CAS email from Cardiff normally register with the police Change of University University, or your Cardiff University within seven days of your arrival in student ID card Marriage certificate, or Divorce the UK. If you are not sure whether Change of marital status you need to register, contact certificate International Student Support. 1HZvisa granted by UKVI Biometric card and Passport Change of passport New passport

In addition to the above documentation, you will need to bring your passport and police registration certificate. THE INDUCTION PROGRAMME // www.cardiff.ac.uk/new-students 14

THE INDUCTION PROGRAMME

When you first arrive there We understand that arriving in a new At these events you should find all the will be lots of things you place is a challenging and exciting information, fun and friends you need experience for you. At Cardiff, we take to make your transition to UK life as need to do including great care to ensure your smooth carefree as possible. More details enrolling and collecting arrival and help you to settle into your about the dates and times of these new way of life in the University and events, will be emailed to you closer to your student ID card. Please local community. your arrival date. see the check list on the Please be aware that many induction Make your stay at Cardiff rewarding events and activities will be held inside front cover and make and enjoyable: come to all the virtually this year due to the COVID-19 sure you complete induction events arranged for when outbreak. you first arrive in Cardiff. everything. THE INDUCTION PROGRAMME // www.cardiff.ac.uk/new-students 15

OTHER ACTIVITIES You may also be given information about how to Throughout the year there are usually lots enrol for modules in your first of activities taking place in the Students’ term. For more information Union for all students. These activities are see More information organised just for you and are intended to https://www.cardiff.ac.uk/ give you an idea of what life at Cardiff is new-students/before-you- like. They also give you the opportunity to arrive/online-enrolment about the meet new friends and settle in before the busy first week of term. For further Please be aware that School induction events is details, see induction activities may take place virtually in January available here. 2021. Are there any events taking place in my academic school? January starters Yes, you may be required to attend an If you’re starting in January you induction meeting held in your School will be sent information about - you will be sent more information by January induction LQ'HFHPEHU. your School. You will meet your You can also email lecturers and other staff who work in *2#FDUGLIIDFXNRUYLVLW your subject area.

The health and safety of our students is of the utmost importance. Therefore, please do expect that there will be disruption to university life or limited services and activities offered during this academic year due to the COVID-19 outbreak. LIVING EXPENSES // www.cardiff.ac.uk/new-students 16

LIVING EXPENSES

(67,0$7('$9(5$*( Undergraduate Postgraduate /,9,1*(;3(16(6)25$ 10 months 12 months 6,1*/(3(5621/,9,1* Rent (inc bills) ,181,9(56,7< 5,110 598 5(6,'(1&(6 Food £ 400 785 Please note that these figures Social / leisure 000 275 represent the average cost of living in Cardiff. Students who are on a Laundry & toiletries 300 83 budget can live on less if they wish to do so. The minimum cost of living Travel 200 255 as recommended by UKVI for Mobile79OLFHQFH studying outside London is £1,023 04 387 per month. Clothes 31 294 )LJXUHVDUHEDVHGRQ920OLYLQJ FRVWV Books 90 90

Total 8,935 1,367 678'(17 ROUTE9,6$ 5HQWEDVHGRQDQHQVXLWHURRPLQ7DO\ERQW6RXWK +2/'(56 3OHDVHQRWWKDWWKHVHDUHstart-up costs only To pass the maintenance test for your Student Route visa, you will have to show you have moneyfor the cost of your 1st year tuition feesand living costs of £9,135. LIVING EXPENSES // www.cardiff.ac.uk/new-students 17 :+$7,67+(&2672) YOUR BUDGET /,9,1*,1335,9$7( Be realistic about budgeting for your time at University. It is essential that you have $&&2002'$7,21,,1 enough money for the duration of your course. You will not be able to rely on the &$5',))" money from part-time earnings to support you. The competitiveness of finding a job, the generally low rate of pay for this work, and the restricted number of hours you The costs of living in private can work mean that your part-time earnings will be insufficient to maintain an accommodationcan vary a lot depending adequate standard of living. Please be sure to check your visa regulations before on where you live. For more information see: undertaking any part-time work.

KWWSVZZZFDUGLIIDFXNQHZVWXGHQWV EHIRUH\RXDUULYHDFFRPPRGDWLRQDQG Standard Items Cost Drinks Cost PRYLQJKHUH Bread 0.47 Instant coffee (100g) 1.49 Margarine (500kg) 0.69 Tea bags (50 pack) 0.75 Basmati rice (1kg) 1.89 Cola (2 litres) 0.42 Spaghetti (500g) 0.20 Bottled Water (2 litres) 0.17 Cornflakes (500g) 0.72 Milk (1 pint) 0.49 Eggs (6 pack) 0.90 Toiletries Cost Vegetable Oil (1 litre) 1.09 All-Purpose cleaner (1 litre) 0.60 Noodles (300g) 0.59 Soap (4x 125g) 0.79 Shampoo 0.49 Washing Powder (1.6kg) 2.15 Fresh Fruit and Cost Toilet Paper (9 rolls) 1.99 Vegetables Washing-up liquid (1 litre) 0.85 Potatoes (2kg) 2.00 Disposable Razors (20 pack) 3.69 Onions (1kg) 0.57 Toothpaste 0.76 Tomatoes (1kg) 1.29 Oranges (5 pack) 0.97 Apples (5 pack) 1.49 Costs are approximate and based on Bananas (7 pack) 0.97 supermarkets close to the campus. Peas (1kg frozen) 0.76 For more information on living expenses see: Baked Beans (425g) 0.23

Meat Cost Minced Beef (800g) 2.99 Whole Chicken 3.99 Fish Fingers 1.39 Frozen Prawns 3.09 LIVING EXPENSES // www.cardiff.ac.uk/new-students 18 OPENING A BANK ACCOUNT

678'(17',6&2817&$5'6 It is not possible to open a UK bank account until you arrive in Cardiff. You will find that a lot of things, such as However, it is likely to be one of the first things that you do because this cinema tickets, clothing and travel, canbe bought at a discounted cost if you area is the safest way to keep your money. This will take you at least a week so student and have one of the following you must make sure you have enough money for your first few weeks in cards. Cardiff. Cardiff University student IDcard +2:'2,23(1$%$1. Your student ID card, which will beissued $&&2817" to you at enrolmentis very useful! In addition to giving you access toUniversity 7RRSHQD6DQWDQGHU+6%&/OR\GV76% buildings, the card may alsoentitle you to %DUFOD\VRU1DWZHVWEDQNDFFRXQW\RX discounts in shops,cinemas and PXVWWDNH\RXUSDVVSRUWDQG restaurants. Ask if theyoffer a “student GRFXPHQWDWLRQWRSURYHWKDW\RXDUH discount”. HQUROOHGRQDFRXUVHDW&DUGLII8QLYHUVLW\ WRWKHEDQNLQ&DUGLII International Students’ Identity :+$7:,//7+(%$1. Card (ISIC) 7KH EDQNV UHTXLUH DQ LQWURGXFWRU\ EDQN OHWWHU IURP WKH 8QLYHUVLW\ GHWDLOLQJ \RXU 2))(50(" This card enables you to obtaindiscounts SHUVRQDOGHWDLOVDQGFRXUVHRIVWXG\ on flights, accommodation, ITsoftware and Every bankhas different offers for internetproducts, foodanddrink. You can

COMMUNICATIONS INTERNET AND &$1,*(7,17(51(7 (0$,/ $&&(66,10<5220" You will be given a Cardiff University email Yes. If you are staying in University address when you enrol. You will be able residences you will be able to connect EMAIL to access your own personal email tothe university Wi-Fi network. account (Gmail, Hotmail etc.), but you will Wireless internet is available across the be expected to access your Cardiff University campus and in University University email account regularly to Residences. You can find out more about 6(77,1*83$1 ensure you keep up-to-date with how to access the service on the intranet ,17(51(7&211(&7,21 important University communications. after you have enrolled and have received your University login details. These details ,135,9$7( will also allow you to access any $&&2002'$7,21 networked computer on campus. If you decide to live in private accommodation or University-owned PCs and study spaces are available in student house, you will need to find libraries and study spaces across the affordable broadband access along with campus. Some of these are accessible TV and phone services. For more 24/7. information on how to set up these services see: Please note that some Library Services may be unavailable or disrupted due to COVID-19 restrictions. COMMUNICATIONS // www.cardiff.ac.uk/new-students 20 MOBILE PHONES

All students use mobile phones for staying in touch with family and friends. For information about the cost of UK mobile phones and network companies see: www.uswitch.com/mobiles/networ ks

&$1,86(0<02%,/( 3+21(,17+(8." You will need to ensure your mobile phoneis GSM compatible to use in the UK. You can then use a UK SIM card to connect to the phonenetwork, this may be much cheaper than using your SIM card from home. To use a UK SIM card you may need to ‘unlock’ your phone. Speak to your mobile carrier before travelling to the UK and they should be able to unlock your phonefor you.

&2175$&76)25 3$<$6<28*202%,/(6 &+($3:$<6)25 02%,/(6 Pay-as-you-go (PAYG) is the no-contract, .((3,1*,1 728&+ no credit check, no-commitment and no- If you choose a contract the phonewill monthly bills way of getting a mobile There are several cheap ways for be cheaper or free but make sure you phone. The biggest advantage of this is contactingyour family overseas. check the monthly payment and call that it is impossible to run up a huge These include international calling charges before signing. There will be a phonebill as you can only make calls cards and online services such as compulsory monthly charge and most once you have already paid for them. Skype, WhatsAppand FaceTime. contracts commit you to a 24 month However, you will pay more to buy the agreement. To buy a contract mobile initial phoneand calls can be more phoneyou will need a “proof of expensive than on contract mobile enrolment” letter stating that you are a phones. ( Cardiff University student and giving your U ROAMING term-time address. You can obtain this You can buy PAYG phones from most “proof of enrolment” from SIMS: shops without needing a “proof of Following the end of the transition www.sims.cf.ac.uk enrolmentletter” from the University. period, EU Roaming may no longer be available for students coming to the UK after 1st January 2021. :+(5(&$1,%8<$ 02%,/( 3+21(" Please ensure that you contact your phone provider before travelling and To compare the costs of different UK turn off data roaming to avoid any mobile phones and network companies additional charges. see:

Carphone Warehouse are one of the largest independent stores selling mobile phones, but you can also buy a phone from supermarkets or mobile phone shops. It is a good idea to shop around. COMMUNICATIONS // www.cardiff.ac.uk/new-students 21

RECEIVING AND SENDING POST HOME

6(1',1*/(77(56$1' '(/,9(5<2)3$5&(/672 3$5&(/6 <28581,9(56,7< REMEMBER If you need to send a lightweight letter $&&2002'$7,21 within the UK then you can simply stick a You can collect letters and parcels from TO LET FRIENDS postage stamp to the envelope and put it Royal Mail from the reception at your in any postbox. If you are unsure of how University residence. However, AND FAMILY KNOW much the postage should be then take residencesstaff are unable to sign for your letter to a PostOffice for them to and accept parcels and deliveries on weigh it and advise how much it will cost YOU HAVE ARRIVED your behalf from private delivery to send. Parcels should always be taken companies. In special circumstances, to a PostOffice for weighing and Residencesstaff will accept a parcel SAFELY dispatching. If you are sending a parcel from a private delivery company on your overseas you will need to complete a behalf, if you make prior arrangements customs form, available in the Post with your ResidencesManager. Office. There is now a PostOffice within the Students Union that you can use. STUDYING AT CARDIFF UNIVERSITY // www.cardiff.ac.uk/new-students 22

STUDYING AT CARDIFF UNIVERSITY

:+(1&$1,(152/" We recommend you enrol online before ENROLMENT arriving in Cardiff to avoid: ForErasmus+ students, you will be sent ◗ delays in your student ID card being an email from Cardiff University telling To become a student of Cardiff issued University and gain access to the library you when and how to enrol online ◗ and computing facilities, you will need approximately three weeks before the delays in being able to access University computing facilities to enrol online. For Erasmus+ students, start of your course. You will use your it is preferable that you enrol online username and password which you ◗ delays at School enrolment should have received already and be before you arrive to Cardiff. To enrol asked your student number and your ◗ delays in obtaining your bank letter online you will need to confirm some date of birth. If you have any problems which you will need to open a UK bank personal details and confirm your with online enrolment, please contact the account course details. If you are a fee paying enrolment team by email: study abroad student, you will also need Once you have completed online to pay your tuition feesto be able to enrolment you will be shown details of your course and the core modules which form enrol online. For International Exchange and Study Abroad students, you will be sent part of the course that you are registered instructions on how to enrol prior to your for on the “Confirmation of Student International Exchange and arrival Enrolment” screen. You may wish to print Study Abroad Students this out for your records and to show that you have completed online enrolment (a You will be sent instructions on how to +2:'2,(152/21/,1(" copy will be emailed to your Cardiff enrol prior to your arrival. Upon arrival in THIS SECTION IS ONLY FORERASMUS University email address). After online Cardiff you will also receive online STUDENTS. enrolment, you need to complete your enrolment support from the Study To complete online enrolmentgo to: School enrolment and attend School Abroad team. Details of the support https://sims.cf.ac.uk/ induction activities when you arrive in available will be sent to you via email. Cardiff. To find out where and when these You will be guided through a series of web are, see the School Enrolment Information pages, which will enable you to check web page for your School, your year and information held by the University about course: you, and update information where required. STUDYING AT CARDIFF UNIVERSITY // www.cardiff.ac.uk/new-students

WHAT CAN I DO TO PREPARE FOR STUDYING IN 23 CARDIFF? There is a free pre-arrival interactive website for incoming your visa application to collect your BRP students that provides examples &$5',))81,9(56,7< from the University. This year, due to 678'(17,'&$5' COVID-19, UKVI are going to send your of what it is like to study at a BRP card directly through the post to you You must obtain your student ID cardafter www.prepareforsuccess.org.ukUK university you have enrolled. All students are so you do not need to collect it in person. required to carry their student ID cardon You will receive an email from the campus and your identity card will also International Student Support team when allow you to use the Students’ Union, your BRP is ready to be delivered. More sports facilities, libraries and IT rooms. The information about this can be found here: way in which you collect your Student ID https://www.cardiff.ac.uk/new-students/ card will be different this year. More before-you-arrive/international-students/ They may also refer you to one of the other information will be provided to you prior to visas-and-immigration/collecting-your- University advice staff if they feel you would your arrival. biometric-residence-permit-brp benefit from speaking to a specialist. Your personal tutor should arrange to see you at least three timeseach year, but you can also IF TRAVELLING WITH A VISA arrange ameeting with them. In order to comply with the UK ACADEMIC Government's immigration rules, you +2:&$1,$55$1*(726(( mustbring your passport, visa and any SUPPORT visadocumentation with you when you pick 0

The health and safety of our students is of the utmost importance. Therefore, please be aware that there may be some changes to the way that you will be taught at Cardiff University this year due to the COVID-19 outbreak. Assessments may also be completed virtually. Your School can provide further information about this. STUDYING AT CARDIFF UNIVERSITY // www.cardiff.ac.uk/new-students 25 Taught postgraduate courses also include a print and online. Most libraries have group mix of assessments, but students are study and quiet rooms, as well as social normally required to carry out a large and individual spaces. They stock multiple research project in the summer. You may copies of recommended text books and also be required to sit exams in January have long opening hours, including evening and May/June. and weekends. Your student ID card is also your library card, so you can borrow books The amount of assessment you are from any of Cardiff University’s libraries as required to do may vary depending on what soon as you have obtained your student ID your home University need. If you are card. Simply take the books you would like unsure about whether you are required to to borrow to one of the staffed service complete all the assessment set by Cardiff desks or self-issue points in the library, University, please ask your home University together with your student ID card. You can and discuss with your academic school in have 15 items on loan from University Cardiff. ADDITIONAL libraries at one time. You can easily locate resources for your :+$7'27+(*5$'(667 FACILITIES FOR assignments, check your library borrowing, $1'5'0($1 renew loan periods and reserve items using POSTGRADUATE the online library catalogue (and mobile )25$66,*10(176" app). Early in your course, you will be given These are classesof degree. The highest an introduction to library and IT facilities. grade is a 1st which is roughly equivalent STUDENTS Friendly staff will be available to give help to an ‘A’ grade or over 70%. This is and advice; printed and web-based guides followedby 2:1 (B or ranging between are available on a range of topics; and you 60% and69%), 2:2 (C or between 50% 3267*5$'8$7(678'< can also attend workshops and seminars to and 59%)and 3rd (Pass or under 49%). A help you to make effective use of resources 2:1 isconsidered a good grade and a 1st 63$&( and facilities. isusually very difficult to obtain. Cardiff University has dedicated study facilities for postgraduate taught and You can access LibrarySearch, the library research students on both Cathays and catalogue, online at: 25*$1,6,1*<285 Heath campuses. 678',(6 In the UK students often work 3267*5$'8$7(62&,$/ If you click on ‘hints and tips’ you will find independently, studying on their own for information on how to search. long periods of time. To get the greatest $&7,9,7,(6 benefit from your course you need to The Students’ Unionand its Postgraduate For more details of the books, journals and organise your time carefully, as simply Association offers a dedicated programmeof electronic resources available see attending lectures will not be enough for social activities for postgraduatesduring the you to gain a good mark. At the start of year, see your course you should know how much work you are expected to do and the %8<,1*&2856(%22.6 important dates for completing it. Undergraduate and taught postgraduate If your course booksare in high demand students are given a School Course you may find that you have to wait to use Handbook which will outline what is COURSE BOOKS them and you may only be able to borrow expected of you. It will give information on: them for a short time. You will therefore ◗ The course content probably need to buy important course :+(5(&$1,*(7$ booksand you should budget for this. ◗ How the course is going to be taught, Essential course booksare likely to be e.g.. by lectures, seminars, group work 5($',1*/,67%()25(, available in Blackwells bookshop located etc. 67$570<&2856(" in Cardiff University Students’ Union. You ◗ How you will be assessed, e.g. by You should contact your School to obtain may also be able to buy the bookson examination and/or written work and any available reading lists prior to arriving your reading list before you arrive in what proportion of your overall mark a at Cardiff. Cardiff. For more information email piece of work or examination or visit: represents ◗ +2::,//,*(70< When the assessments will take place &2856(%%22.6"* It is often a good idea to wait until you and what marks you need to obtain to are in Cardiff before buying course books. pass the course The libraries are conveniently located You may be able to share books with close to the academic schools, and offer friends, and you won’t have to carry them a wide range of information resources in from overseas.

*Some library services may be disrupted due to COVID-19. You can find further information about the changes here: https://www.cardiff.ac.uk/libraries/ services-and-support/library-services-available-during-the-coronavirus-covid-19-pandemic HELP AND ADVICE // www.cardiff.ac.uk/new-students 26

FOR EVERY KIND OF PROBLEM THERE ARE TRAINED PEOPLE AT HAND TO OFFER HELP. HELP AND ADVICE Sometimes people run into difficulties and need a little extra support. For every kind of problem there are trained people at hand to offer help. Every student at Cardiff University is also allocated a personal tutor to help you with any academic problems you may have (for information about academic support see page 23). STUDENT SUPPORT ,17(51$7,21$/678'(17 &2816(//,1*6(59,&( 6833257 The CounsellingService provides help AND WELLBEING International Student Supportis with more personal problems that may dedicated to the welfare of international arise while you are a student at Cardiff. The Student Support and Wellbeing students. Browse through their website This service provides a confidential safe Service is a dedicated facility to help to see the many aspects of being an space where counsellors will work with students with any problems or questions. you to help you to explore your situation or Their website is international student in the UK that they can help with, including: difficulty in private without judging you. ◗ Immigration advice and assistance Counsellors are very used to dealing with with visa extensions a wide range of personal and emotional Within Student Support and Wellbeing ◗ Employment Regulations difficulties. Counsellors also provide ◗ you will find the following services: Financial Advice several free workshops, which help students adjust to living in the UK and build friendships. The service has a well- ◗ Daily life in the UK developed email counsellingservice and a STUDENT CONNECT To contact International Student Support range of online self help tools. For further Our Student Connect service is your first email: information please contact: point of contact if you need any support while you are studying at Cardiff University. Further information on how you can use HELP BEFORE YOU ARRIVE this service can be found here: If you need help before you arrive, https://intranet.cardiff.ac.uk/students/ the Global Opportunities team can health-and-wellbeing/how-to-get-in-touch- provide assistance and answer any for-support-using-student-connect questions, email: [email protected] HELP AND ADVICE // www.cardiff.ac.uk/new-students 27

of your placement for further information To contact Student Advice email ',6$%,/,7<$1''<6/(;,$ about how you are able to apply for this [email protected]. 6(59,&( additional funding. The Disabilityand Dyslexia Service provides information, advice, guidance and a range of services to support disabled students. The Disabilityand EXTRA SUPPORT 7+(,17(51$7,21$/ Dyslexia team can assist disabled 2)),&(5,17+( students, which includes students with FOR YOU medical conditions, physical and sensory 678'(176·81,21 The International Officer is a student impairments, physical and mobility elected each year to campaign on behalf impairments, mental health difficulties :+(5(&$1,*2,),-867 of students from outside the UK on and specific learning difficulties, on issues such as fees, equality and matters relating to: :$1772&+$7" employment rights. They work closely ◗ Accommodation If you ever feel alone and would like to with staff in the Student Advice team, the ◗ Applications for disability funding speak to someone or would simply like Vice President Societies and Volunteering information on anything from cinema times Officer to make you feel welcome, safe ◗ Screening and assessment for to exam dates you can contact one of our and happy during your time in Cardiff dyslexia and other specific learning student-led services. Each service has a University. difficulties specific purpose and provides support for Email: ◗ Study skills tuition students with wellbeing needs. Further ◗ Access to support workers information can be found here: The International Officer is also a part of https://www.cardiffstudents.com/advice/ the International Students’ Association, ◗ Access to and training on assistive studentledservices/ which you can join while you’re at technology University. Find out more here: To contact the Disability and Dyslexia Service email 678'(17$'9,&( Student Advice is a free, confidential, If you are an Erasmus+ student and have impartial, and independent service run by a disability, you are able to apply for the Students’ Union, providing advice and funding from the European Commission information, advocacy, and representation to cover the additional costs you will incur to Cardiff University students. You can get whilst in Cardiff as a result of your general advice and information on issues disability. Please do contact the Erasmus+ such as academic, consumer, employment, team on [email protected] well in health services, housing, money matters, advance. student finance, welfare matters, and much more. LIVING IN CARDIFF // www.cardiff.ac.uk/new-students 28

LIVING IN CARDIFF Cardiff is an excellent city in which to live and study. As the capital of Wales, it has a large choice of social and leisure activities available and caters for all tastes. It is developing constantly and the number of facilities and amenities increases all the time. Known as one of the greenest cities in the UK, the city has more than 330 parks, gardens and peaceful spots. It is renowned for being vibrant and friendly and easy to get around. From Cardiff it is easy to explore the beautiful countryside of South Wales and Southern England. London is only two hours away by train. HOW WILL I FEEL WHEN I FIRST ARRIVE?

When moving to a new city it can be disorientation, irritability, increased like will help keep your spirits high and difficult to adjust to the new way of life vulnerability and reduced confidence. enable you to be more tolerant of your and adapt to a new culture. You are Culture shock can affect anyone and is environment. likely to experience a whole range of a very normal reaction for incoming emotions. Some of these feelings will be students as they adjust to a new These feelings will pass and you will surprising, confusing, frustrating and can environment. The best way to deal with settle into student life. However, if you make you feel anxious. This is known as culture shock is to try and understand do feel that you are unable to cope, ask “culture shock” and almost everyone the different situation you are in and for help from the Counselling Service who studies, lives and works abroad will how it makes you feel. In this way, you with the Student Support Centre or experience this to some degree. can work out how best to respond to the Student Advice within the Students' Differences in climate, food, dress, difference and so reduce your anxiety. Union (see page 26). They will behaviour and language can all Focusing on things you like in the new understand the problems you may be contribute to feelings of loneliness, culture rather than the things you do not having and will listen sympathetically. LIVING IN CARDIFF // www.cardiff.ac.uk/new-students 29 HOW DO I GET AROUND CARDIFF?

Cardiff is a small city so you will find that you will be able to walk or cycle to most places. The Students’ Union, student residences and city centre are within a short walk of one another. There is also a regular bus service around the city. Details of timetables and fares can be obtained from the Cardiff Bus website

Taxis can be a good way to get around if you have lots to carry. They are quite expensive but less if you share a taxi with your friends and split the cost. Taxi companies in Cardiff include:

◗ Capital Taxis - 029 20 777 777 ◗ Dragon Taxis - 029 20 333 333 :,//,%($%/(72'5,9( 3/$11,1*7275$9(/72 ◗ Premier Taxis - 029 20 555 555 ,17+(8." (8523('85,1*7+( If you hold a valid drivinglicence or international drivingpermit from your 81,9(56,7<9$&$7,216" $'9,&($%2877$;,6 home country you can drive a car for up If you are coming to study with us from to 12 months in the UK, if you are from a outside Europe and want to travel to _1 designated country. After 12 months you certain countries in the European must obtain a UK drivinglicence andpass Economic Area you may need to apply for Always take a taxi that is registered with a drivingtest to be able to continueto a Schengen visa. These visas are valid Cardiff City Council. Their licence is drive legally. Before you drive in the UK for three months and the International yellow and should be displayed at the the car or motorbike must be registered, Student SupportTeam can help you apply back of the taxi. The taxi driver should taxed, insured and MOT’d. An ‘M.O.T.’ isa (see page 35). Please make sure that you also have their licence with their test which must be carried out by a photograph displayed in the taxi. start planning for this visa at least two certified garage; they test that your car is months before your holidays, as the safe to drive. If your car fails its MOT test application process can take a long time. _2 then you need to pay for work to be done Always find out the price of the journey on your car so that it will pass the test. For more information about Schengen before you get in the taxi. You must have insuranceand tax on the visas contact vehicle, as drivingin the UK withoutthese is illegal. For more detailedinformation _3 about drivingin the UK see Always pay for the journey when you have reached your destination, never at TO FIND OUT the start of the journey. MORE ABOUT THE CITY AND INFORMATION ABOUT _4 FESTIVALS AND EVENTS ON For more information about driving Always sit in the back of the taxi behind in the UK after Brexit, please visit IN CARDIFF, VISIT THE the driver. the UK Government's website. TOURIST INFORMATION WEBSITE WWW.VISITCARDIFF.COM LIVING IN CARDIFF // www.cardiff.ac.uk/new-students 30 SHOPPING

Cardiff has one of the best UK shopping experiences outside of London. The city centre offers a huge variety of shopping with a range of indoor, outdoor, old, modern, high street and designer shopping. Shops are usually open 09:00 - 17:30 Monday to Saturday, although many supermarkets are open from 08:00 -22:00 and larger supermarkets may be open 24 hours. Most supermarkets are open also on Sundays from 10:00 - 16:00. Many large stores as well as small newsagents and grocery shops are also open for a shorter time on Sundays.

)22'66+233,1* Cardiff has a large covered market in the central shoppingarea. You can buy almost anything in the market. It is an excellent source of cheap fish, meat, fruit and vegetables. You can also buy cheap crockery and cooking utensilsthere. RELIGION AND FAITH

683(50$5.(76 In the UK there is freedom to follow any religion and any faith. The largest faith You will find that supermarkets are some community is Christian and there are good relationships between the major religions.The of the best places to stock up on vibrant international community at the University offers great opportunities formeeting provisions, as there is likely to be one near people of your own and other religions. where you are staying. Lidl supermarket is located near the University on Maindy Road, but the largest supermarkets are :+(5(&$1,),1'27+(56:+26+$5(0<5(/,*,21" located some distance from the city centre, including Tesco, which is next to There are various religious societies within the Students’ Unionrepresenting different the Talybont Residence. Many students faiths which you can think about joining, including the Islamic, Jewish and Christian order their groceries online and have them societies. Details of these can be found at delivered to their University residence. You must be at home when your groceries are delivered because you need to sign for the University Chaplaincy delivery. You will need to give the The Chaplaincy is a place of friendship, hospitality, reflection, prayer, support and supermarket company your mobile dialogue, offering opportunities for you to engage socially and to explore faith and telephone number, so that they can ring spirituality. More information can be found on our website: you when they arrive

,17(51$7,21$/)22' Prayer Rooms 6725(6 There are quiet rooms on both the Cathays and Heath Park campuses for individual prayer and reflection, meditation, contemplation or just quiet time. There is also aquiet There is a wide range of specialist room available every day during term-time on 3rd floor of the Students’ Unionin The international foodstores in the city where Lounge. you will be able to find most of the foods you are used to eating at home. These Places of worshipfor all major religions and faiths can be found around the city. The include shops that sell Halal, American, Chaplaincy has information about all the churches, synagogues, temples and other European and Asian foods and many other places of worship around Cardiff. food products from around the world. More For more information, please email information about the different international foodstores will be availablein your welcome packs when you arrivein Cardiff. It is also a good idea to join an international society and learn where other students shop. LIVING IN CARDIFF // www.cardiff.ac.uk/new-students 31 SOCIAL LIFE

7+(678'(176·81,21 When you enrol at Cardiff University you automatically become a member of the Students’ Union. As a student-led, independent part of the university, the Students’ Unionrepresents students and provides a diverse and inclusive range of activities and services that enrich student life. These include entertainment, advice, training, skills development, volunteering opportunities, employment and other services that help you make friends and develop yourself during your time at University.

The Students’ Unionsupports over 200 student societiesand 60 sports clubs that boast more than 10,000 members. The Students’ Unionis also the recognised voice of students at Cardiff University, joining students in campaigning about the issues important to them. society at any time throughout the year The Students’ Unionbuilding is located in online *,9(,7$*2 the heart of campus offering cafes, study Give it a Go is a fun calendar of amazing space, a pub, a night club, live music activities giving you try-before-you-buy venues and a range of shops and services. opportunities for our societies and sports For students studying at the Heath ,17(51$7,21$/62&,(7,(6 clubs, the chance to learn a new campus, you can access services at the language, develop skills, volunteer, go on There are many International Societies Students’ Unionin the IV Lounge. day and weekend trips and so much which reflect the multiculturalenvironment more. Their aim is to get you to try things of Cardiff University such asthe you’ve never tried before, meet new The Students' Union opening times can International Students' Association.These people, and have an absolutely amazing be found here: societies are ideal for combattingculture time while you are in Cardiff. For more https://www.cardiffstudents.com/ shock, as wherever in the worldyou have information see: about-cusu/covid-19/opening-hours/ travelled from, you are sure tofind other students who share a commonbond. 678'(1762&,(7,(6 Similarly, there are lots of religious societies that provide new students with 678'(170(',$ Societies are groups of students who the chance to worshipand express their share common interests, beliefs or religious beliefs. Dedicated teams of students produce a values. Within the Union, there are over weekly newspaper called Gair Rhydd, a 200 student-led societies. These range '(3$570(17$/62&,(7,(6 monthly lifestyle magazine called from cultural and international groups to Quench, a radio station called Xpress, political, ideological and performance Most courses at University have a and an online TV station called CUTV. groups. They provide the opportunity to corresponding society. Whether youstudy The students involved are from a diverse try something new, almost every week. Business or Medicine, Engineeringor Law, range of backgrounds, studying They offer a huge range of activities, from you will find a society in whichyou can everything from physics to philosophy, going on trips and holidays, making meet fellow course-mates.Joining a and as long as you’ve got passion and music, volunteering your time and energy course society gives you theopportunity to enthusiasm, you’ll be welcomed aboard. for a worthy charity, to celebrating a make new friends who areinterested in To find out more visit: national day or religious event and more. the same area of study asyou, and also Becoming involved in a society is an the opportunity to shareideas and provide excellent way to make friends, discover helpful advice.Whatever course you study, new interests and add to your CV. you can joinany course society, so if you have aninterest outside your degree, During the first week of term there will be joining onecan allow you to explore new a Societies Fair in the Students’ Union, subjects. which is an ideal opportunity to find out more about the societies and join those which interest you. But if you miss this don’t worry, you can join a LIVING IN CARDIFF // www.cardiff.ac.uk/new-students 32

SPORTS AND SPORTS CLUBS*

Getting involved with a sports club is a During your first week at Cardiff you can great way to make friends while at visit the Sports Clubs Freshers’ Fair where +,*+3(5)250$1&( University. All levels of sport are catered you can find out what clubs exist, meet 63257352*5$00( for and you will be made to feel welcome members of those clubs and join any The Cardiff University SportHigh at any of the sports clubs, whatever your clubs you would like to become involved Performance Support Programme is standard. with. Membership fees range from £5 to open to all undergraduate and £100. For further information on each of postgraduate students at Cardiff The Athletic Union currently supports the clubs or details on how to get involved University. To be eligible you must have around 60 sports clubs ranging from see at least represented your country at recreational to competitive sports and junior or senior standard or be competes against other British Universities recognised by your governing body as in BUCS (British Universities and College having outstanding potential. The main Sport) competitions. All sports teams are aim of the programme is to support run by students for students, and details 632576)$&,/,7,(6 young, talented sportsmen and women of all sports clubs and how to join can be through their time in Higher Education at The University has a range of gyms, found online Cardiff University. For more information fitness classesand sports facilities if you go to are looking to keep fit and healthy or play casually with friends without joining or email a sports club. The Sports TrainingVillage The Intra Mural Games (IMG) is the name Clare Daley at [email protected] at Talybont Residences has a wide range of the University’s recreational sports of facilities including; a gym, a league. The IMG gives you the chance to physiotherapy clinic and two large sports play sports on a more informal basis with halls. Away from the city centre, the groups of friends or other students from University also has a 33 acre site of high your School. If you love playing sport but quality football, rugby, lacrosse and *Please be aware that don’t have time to commit to busy training American football pitches. These playing schedules or just want to keep active with fields were used as one of the official there may be disruption to a weekly kick around then the IMG is for football training venue during the London you. sports and social events 2012 Olympic Games. due to the COVID-19 For more information on all the sports outbreak facilities see: WHAT IS THE NATIONAL HEALTH SERVICE (NHS) // www.cardiff.ac.uk/new-students 33

STAYING SAFE AND HEALTHY

:+$7,67+(1$7,21$/ DO I NEED MEDICAL +($/7+6(59,&( 1+6 " INSURANCE? The NHS is the UK’s state health service, which provides treatment on a wide Courses of more than six months range of health care services. If you are If your course at Cardiff University is for entitled to NHS treatment, the following six months or more, then it is likely that services will be free of charge: you will be required to pay an immigration health surcharge as part of your visa ◗ Medicine you require on prescription – application fee. The immigration health this is free in Wales (but not throughout surcharge qualifies students for free NHS Students coming to the UK) care on the same basis as anyone who is the UK from the EU ◗ Consulting a doctor/General Practitioner ordinarily resident in the UK (GP) and most other GP services (e.g. Please be aware that as of 1st visiting a doctors’ surgery/clinic) Courses of less than six months ◗ January 2021, the way you Treatment in a hospital (both emergency If your course at Cardiff University is for access healthcare in the UK and non-emergency treatment) less than six months, you are not entitled will change and you will be to free NHS care. Although, you will be required to purchase medical

To find a list of NHS registered dentists (these are considerably cheaper than private dentists) see INDEX // USEFUL CONTACTS www.cardiff.ac.uk/new-students 35

GLOBAL STUDENT CONNECT FINANCE OFFICE USEFUL Tel:+ OPPORTUNITIES Tel: +44 (0) 29 2087 9262 Email: Email: [email protected] Erasmus+ [email protected] CONTACTS 7HO

Email: [email protected] INFORMATION SERVICES (IT) Study Abroad and International Tel:+44 (0) 29 2251 1111 Exchange INTERNATIONAL Email: [email protected] Tel: STUDENT SUPPORT

Email: [email protected] Tel: Email: [email protected] RESIDENCES OFFICE SECURITY CENTRE Tel: +44 (0) 29 2087 4849 Email: [email protected] Tel:+44 (0) 29 2087 4444 Email: [email protected] ENROLMENT TEAM Tel: +44 (0) 29 2087 6211 ENGLISHLANGUAGE Email: [email protected] SUPPORT Tel: +44 (0) 29 2087 6587 Email: [email protected] MAP 4 University and City Centre

University Buildings Halls of Residence Shopping Area P Car Parks P&R Cardiff West Park & Ride Bus Stop P&R Cardiff East Park & Ride Bus Stop Cycle/Footpath

Cathays Park Campus (* indicates main site) Libraries Additional Information

Aberconway Building D5 30 Earth and Ocean Sciences E4 1 Law and Politics E4*, E4 4*, 8 Sports Aberconway Building D5 30 All Nations Centre C8 101 15 Architecture E4 6 Eastgate House G3 22 Main Building E4 1 tFitness and E4 Arts and Social Sciences E4 26 City Hall E3 108 1, 2 21 18 Conditioning Centre Biosciences E4 Engineering G3 Mathematics F4 2 Coach Station E1 116 tSports Fields Map 2 (over page) Biomedical Sciences E4 Business English, Communication E5 27 McKenzie House G3 23 107 tSports Training Village C6 34 Law Courts E3 tAberconway Building D5 30 and Philosophy 8 Brian Cooke Dental Map 5 (over page) Modern Languages E4 tStudio 49 E4 11 Motorpoint Arena F2 117 tJulian Hodge Building D5 29 Estates G3 23 * 6 Music & University Concert Hall E4, E4 24, 25 20 Bute and Architecture E4 104 tPostgraduate Teaching D5 28 Student Recruitment F3 Welsh Government Ofﬁces E4 Eye Clinic E5 31 Optometry and Vision Sciences E5 31 Centre Student Support Centre E4 11 Health Library Map 5 (over page) Hospital Finance G3 23 18 6 Part-time Courses for Adults F4 Students’ Union E4 14 Law E4 26 Bute Building E4 20 University Hospital D9 100 Friary House F3 Pharmacy and E4 5 Careers and Employability E4 11 Temple of Peace E4 12 25 Geography and Planning E3 7 Pharmaceutical Sciences Music E4 Attractions Centre for Professional E4 4 Tower Building E4 3 Glamorgan Building E3 7 Physics and Astronomy G3 21 Science E4 1 Cardiff Castle E3 111 Legal Studies Trevithick Building G3 21 Global Opportunities Centre E4 11 Strategic Planning & F3 20 18 National Museum E3 109 Chaplaincy E4 10 Doctoral Academy F3 20 Senghennydd F4 Graduate Centre E4 14 Governance St. David’s Hall F2 112 Chemistry E4*, E4 1*, 9 Welsh E5 27 Trevithick Building G3 21 Hadyn Ellis Building E5 32 Purchasing G3 23 Communications F3 20 Sport Park Place Surgery F4 16 Psychology E4*, E4 3*, 9 and Marketing Residences Athletic Stadium Map 2 119 Healthcare Sciences G3 22 Queen’s Buildings G3 21 Computer Science G3 21 Cardiff Blues RFC E2 113 History, Archaeology E5 27 Redwood Building E4 5 Aberconway Hall D5 58 Senghennydd Court F3 63 and Informatics Cardiff City FC Map 2 118 and Religion 23 60 62 Cardiff University Brain D5 33 Registry G3 Aberdare Hall D4 Senghennydd Hall F4 23 Cardiff RFC E2 114 Research Imaging Centre Human Resources G3 Research, Innovation and G3 23 Cartwright Court F6 57 Talybont Court C6 55 Cardiff Tennis Club E3 110 (CUBRIC) International Ofﬁce F3 20 Enterprises Services Colum Hall D5 59 Talybont Gate B7 52 105 Day Care Centre F4 16 IT Services F4 16 Security Centre E4 2 Gordon Hall F4 64 Talybont North B7 53 Sophia Gardens C4 102 Deri House F3 19 John Percival Building E5 27 Sir Martin Evans Building E4 2 Hodge Hall E5 61 Talybont South C6 54 Maindy Pool C6 * * 115 Development and F3 19 Journalism, Media and Culture E1 13 Social Sciences E3 , E4 , F4 7 , 11, 17 Liberty House D8 50 University Hall and G8 51 Principality Stadium E2 Alumni Relations Julian Hodge Building D5 29 Southgate House C6 34 Roy Jenkins Hall E6 56 Conference Centre Welsh Institute of Sport D4 106 GUIDE FOR INCOMING EXCHANGE STUDENTS

GLOBAL OPPORTUNITIES 51A PARK PLACE CARDIFF CF10 3AT WALES UK Erasmus+ Tel:

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