CONTACT US
Tel: +44 (0)1243 812146 Email: [email protected]
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chi.ac.uk International Pre-Arrival Guide 2020 Top Tip: To make the most of this booklet, you can click on the highlighted words to be connected to more information.
Contents
Pre-Arrival Welcome by the International Team 4 What do I do now? 6 What about tuition fees? 8 What funding is available for me? 10 Do I need a visa to come to the UK? 12 Visa and EU Settlement Scheme Information 14 The Duties of a Student on a Tier 4 Student Visa 15 Immigration Control 16 Where is the University of Chichester? 18 Campus Maps 20 Travelling 24
Arrival Arrival 26 Orientation Programme for International and EU Students 28 What about Language Support? 29 Student Support & Wellbeing 30 Where will I live? 32 What about Money? 36 Can I work while I am a student? 38 What about health care? 42 Further information 44 What can I do in my spare time? 50 Is it easy to make friends? 54 Students' Union Welcome 56 Top tips from our international students 58 Useful contact details 60
Checklists Check lists to help you prepare 62
2 #CHIUNI +44 (0)1243 812146 | [email protected] | chi.ac.uk/international 3 Welcome
Dear International Student, We are delighted that you are considering the University of Chichester as your destination for study. We also recognise that moving to a new country and city to study, far from home, can be a daunting process, especially if you have a lot of questions to ask. We want your experience of studying in the UK to be an enjoyable and rewarding one, and by answering as many of your questions as we can in this helpful guide, we hope that we can help to make the transition to the University of Chichester, a smooth process. If you find that some of your questions are not answered by reading this handbook, you are welcome to contact us directly. We will be happy to respond to individual queries. We look forward to welcoming you to the University of Chichester.
The International Team
Key Contact Details Päivi Leivo and Jane Smith, International Student Advisory Service Tel: +44 (0)1243 812146 Email: [email protected] www.chi.ac.uk/international
Rachel Enticknap Bickford-Smith, Head of International Recruitment and Relations Tel: +44 (0)1243 816428 Email: [email protected] www.chi.ac.uk/international
Päivi Leivo Jane Smith Rachel Enticknap Bickford-Smith
4 #CHIUNI +44 (0)1243 812146 | [email protected] | chi.ac.uk/international 5 What do I do now?
Your next steps depend on We recommend that you give yourself as much time Erasmus and International Undergraduate and postgraduate as possible to make sure you receive your visa in time what type of degree/studies Exchange Programmes degree students to travel. You must arrive for the start of your orientation programme/induction week and not you are coming to do at the later. For further information on visas please visit If you are an Erasmus or international exchange University of Chichester. I have a conditional offer – what do I the visa information section on our website. student you should remain in contact with our Exchange and Erasmus Team and your need to do next? Some International Applicants (non-UK/non-EU) Please be assured that whichever category you programme coordinator at your home institution to may have a right to “Home Fees” status. To find out Having a conditional offer means that the University belong to, the International Student Advisory make sure that everything is in place for your about the fee status rules please visit the UKCISA requires further evidence e.g. you might be asked for Service can help you if you have any questions arrival. website. your previous qualifications, proof of English about studying and living in the UK and we are language level or references. happy to provide immigration advice if you require EU/EEA and Swiss Applicants a visa to come to the UK. If you have been assessed as having “Home Fees” Postgraduate research students When we have received any requested certificates or status and have received a conditional offer then you references, your place at University of Chichester is (MPhil/PhD) need to refer to any instructions mentioned in your confirmed. You can then start to organise your offer letter. When we have received any requested International Short Programme accommodation. If you are coming to the University as a postgraduate certificates or references, your place at University of Courses research student you should remain in contact with Chichester is confirmed. International Applicants our Postgraduate Support Team and your main If you have been assessed as having “International If you are coming to the University on a short course supervisor to make sure that you are making all the Fees” status and have received a conditional offer for I have an unconditional offer – what please remain in contact with the International necessary arrangements for your time of study. an undergraduate or postgraduate degree you will do I need to do next? Short Programme Unit (ISPU). The staff at need to do the following to confirm your place at the ISPU will make sure that all the arrangements are University: Having an unconditional offer means that the made for your arrival. You must check if you need a University does not require further evidence from visa to study in the UK and what type of visa would • Send any additional certificates/transcripts/ you to prove that you meet the entry criteria. If you be best for your situation. references as required and stated as conditions in have not yet done so, you should formally accept your offer letter. your place. • Pay a deposit of £2,000 towards tuition fees.
Pre-Sessional Summer The Applicant Information Portal on our If you need a Tier 4 (General) visa in order to study website displays all the information that is relevant to Programme in the UK, you will also need a Confirmation of you. Enter your applicant number and date of birth Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from us – You can and then you can view information about all All of our Pre-Sessional English programmes are receive your CAS once you have met the conditions correspondence sent to you. Your induction being delivered online for Summer 2020. If you wish of your offer and your status is upgraded to programme & registration timetables etc. will be to apply for either the 5 or 10 week programme you unconditional. available on the Portal before the start of the term. will need to contact [email protected]. If We suggest you access this portal regularly to help you have already applied and have a place the IES The University can issue the CAS up to 3 months you prepare for your studies at the University of team will be in contact shortly with enrolment and before your course starts. The Admissions team Chichester. timetable information should automatically start issuing CAS’s in June/July for eligible students but if you do not hear from us you can contact the Admissions Department.
6 #CHIUNI +44 (0)1243 812146 | [email protected] | chi.ac.uk/international 7 What about tuition fees?
In light of the current Covid 19 situation and the How much do I have to pay? uncertainty that surrounds it for students planning to study abroad in September 2020, we have made An overview of the fees for all of our degree courses adjustments to our refund policy. is available on our website. If you accept the offer and pay a tuition fee deposit of £2,000 to confirm your place, this deposit is normally How is my fee status assessed? non-refundable. However, please rest assured that if you are unable to take up your place at Chichester due When you apply to study at the University of to government restrictions relating to the COVID-19 Chichester the admissions team will assess your fees. pandemic your deposit will be refunded in full. You will be assessed as either an international fee payer or home/EU fee payer. You can find the assessment criteria on the UKCISA website. If you How do I pay my tuition fees? feel that you have been incorrectly assessed, please contact the International Student Advisory Before you start your studies, we will send you an Service for advice on the national fees regulations email asking you to pre-register onto your course. As and how they might apply to your case. part of this process you will be asked to tell us how
you would like to pay your tuition fees.
How do I pay my deposit? You can choose to pay your fees in 2 instalments and
a payment plan for this can be set via Chiview International fee payers must pay a £2000 deposit (student portal). In order to make a payment plan before the study offer can be made unconditional you need to have a debit/credit card. and before a CAS (for visa application) can be issued. We recommend that you pay your deposit via our You can also make payments using the online store online store or by bank transfer (BACS). or bank transfer option before or after your arrival at the university (see above table). Online Store https://store.chi.ac.uk/product-catalogue/ The first instalment is due once you have enrolled for international/deposits-and-payments your programme, and the second instalment will be due at the start of your second semester. Bank transfer Account Name: The University of Chichester Please note that we cannot accept large cash Account Number: 12175142 payments towards tuition or accommodation fees. Fee Sponsorships Who can I contact regarding my Sort Code: 40-17-16 Bank Name: HSBC UK deposit or fee payment? For more information please visit our website. If your tuition fees are being paid by your Bank Address: 94 East Street, Chichester, government, employer, or other sponsoring body, You can email our finance team if you need West Sussex PO19 1HD If you are in receipt of Student Finance England you must show a formal letter or complete our assistance with paying your fees. They can also take IBAN no: GB10 HBUK 4017 1612 1751 42 Funding (EU/EEA & UK students) for undergraduate Sponsorship Agreement form at course registration. credit and debit card payments over the phone if you Swift Code: HBUKGB4B studies your fees will be paid directly to the are unable to use the online options. Please quote your student number as the payment University. Our finance team can help you with any questions reference you may have regarding these documents.
8 #CHIUNI +44 (0)1243 812146 | [email protected] | chi.ac.uk/international 9 What funding is available for me?
Funding for EU/EEA and Swiss Funding for US nationals students (FAFSA)
Funding We are recognised by the United States Government EU/EEA and Swiss nationals & family members are for the purposes of Federal Student Loans: US normally eligible to apply for UK government funding national students studying at the University of – this can be a tuition fee loan and/or student Chichester are able to obtain Federal funding for support, depending on your circumstances. their studies. See our Financial Aid section on our website for more information on the eligibility Student Finance England have confirmed that criteria and our application process. students starting their studies in England in the 2020/2021 academic year will continue to pay the same EU/UK tuition fees and remain eligible for What about scholarships? undergraduate and postgraduate loans for the duration of their degree. It is not easy to find scholarships, especially for
undergraduate study, and there is a lot of Undergraduate students may be eligible to apply competition for funds. You are advised to contact the for a UK tuition fee loan. In some cases a loan to Ministry of Education or Education Department in cover your living costs may also be available. your own country first, as they may have details of For more information and to check your eligibility scholarship opportunities for students who want to please visit Student Finance England website. study abroad. The British Council also holds
information about funding and the cost of living in the Postgraduate students who meet the criteria are UK. The UK Council for International eligible to apply for a postgraduate study loan – Student Affairs has a lot of useful information on Master’s loan or postgraduate doctoral loan. Please scholarships and budgeting on their website. check Student Finance England for more
information on these options. The University of Chichester offers scholarships for
gifted athletes. To find out more, please visit the For a full overview of the rights for EU/EEA and Gifted Athlete section of our website for the Swiss students and their family members visit the eligibility criteria. Student Finance England and UKCISA websites. If you have applied for a UK student loan, you will need to bring evidence of this when you register onto your course.
What support is available in 2021/2022? Students starting studies in 2021/2022 should check the latest information on the UKCISA website.
10 #CHIUNI +44 (0)1243 812146 | [email protected] | chi.ac.uk/international 11 Do I need a visa to come to the UK?
EU/EEA countries and Nationals from all other Switzerland countries
If you are a national from an EU/EEA country or If you have a permission to remain in the UK for Switzerland (or if you are a family member of an some reason other than being a student (e.g. EU/EEA/Swiss national), there are currently no indefinite leave to remain, dependant visa, refugee restrictions on your right to study and work in the status, work visa…) then you do not need a student UK. However, the UK’s exit from the EU on 31st visa. For details of all immigration categories please January 2020 will result in various changes after the visit the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) transition period ends on 31st December 2020. website.
Students arriving in the UK during the transition If you do not already have a permission to remain in period can apply to the EU settlement scheme in the UK, you must apply for a Student Visa to study at order to remain and access services in the UK. the University of Chichester. To help you understand If you arrive in the UK after the transition period what type of visa you require, Tier 4 or Short-term ends on 31st December 2020, you will need to apply student visa, please refer to our “Which Visa?” for a permission (visa) to enter the UK. More Flowchart on our website. information on this will be available on the UK government website.
We would recommend that you check the UK government and the UKCISA websites for the latest developments and information on the rights of the EU/EEA/Swiss nationals in the UK.
12 #CHIUNI +44 (0)1243 812146 | [email protected] | chi.ac.uk/international 13 Visa and EU settlement The duties of a student scheme information on a Tier 4 Student Visa
Students holding a Tier 4 Student Visa are Report any change of circumstance to the Visa information required by law to fulfil certain criteria and Home Office. Changes you should report Useful Websites have specific duties: are as follows: It is important that you understand UK immigration • Provide the University with a copy of your • Changes to your personal details regulations and how they may impact on you. Due to UKCISA – Student Immigration current passport and visa/Biometric Residence • Criminal convictions that you have not frequent changes to immigration rules, please our Information Permit. Every time you get a new passport or a previously told the Home Office about visa information webpages for the most up to visa you must provide copies to the University. • Changes in your contact details date information. UK Visas And Immigration – Student Without this (or proof that our CAS has been • Changes in your family members’ details, if they Visas used to apply for a visa) you will not be able to are in the UK as your dependants and You can find information on the following topics: British Council – Visa Information register on your programme. • Any other information you think the Home • Register / re-register on your programme three Office should know, • Do I need a visa? times a year. • How to apply for a Tier 4 visa? • Keep the University updated with your UK The University also has specific duties in • How to apply for a Short-term study visa? contact details. You will be able to do this via relation to students on Student Visas that • How to extend my Tier 4 visa? our student portal, Chiview they are required by law to fulfil: • What to do if my visa is refused? • Keep the University updated if you decide to • We are obliged to report to the Home Office • Latest immigration news and FAQs change your course, withdraw or suspend your any student who either does not enrol or who • How do I collect my Biometric Residence Permit studies via the appropriate University processes. misses 10 expected contacts with tutors or in (BRP)? • Study whilst you are in the UK, ensuring that class. • How do I register with the Police? you meet the progression and attendance • We also have to report any student who defers requirements for your course with no or leaves a course, or if we stop being the unauthorised absences. student’s sponsor. EU Settlement Scheme • Ensure you do not breach the conditions of If you have any questions regarding any of the your visa: above points you are welcome to contact the If you are an EU, EEA or Swiss citizen or a relevant • Do not work more hours than you should. International Student Advisory Service. family member and you are already in the UK (or will Students studying at degree level or above are be here by 31st December 2020) and you wish to allowed to work 20 h/week during term time stay in the UK after the transition period ends– you and full time during vacations. Students studying and your family members will need to apply to the at below degree level are allowed to work 10 h/ EU Settlement Scheme. The deadline for application week during term time and full time during Useful Websites is 30th June 2021. If you arrive in the UK after the vacations. transition period ends, you will need to apply for a • Make sure you register with the Police, if How to report change of circumstance visa to study in the UK (see above links for required, and update your Police Registration to the Home Office information). Certificate within 7 days of any change to your Tier 4 conditions explained circumstances. Your visa/Biometric Residence Please check our website for more information on Permit will state if this is required. Work and Tier 4 Students the settlement scheme and the application process. • Do not claim public funds. This means that you Police Registration in Sussex cannot claim certain welfare benefits and local authority housing.
14 #CHIUNI +44 (0)1243 812146 | [email protected] | chi.ac.uk/international 15 Immigration control
Next you pass through customs control. There are What happens at immigration three channels to choose from: control at the airport? Blue Blue: Arrivals from the European Union (EU) with nothing to declare. When you arrive in Britain, you will first pass through immigration control. The Immigration Officer will check your passport and your Green Green: if you have nothing to permission to enter the UK. declare (no more than the permitted duty-free or tax-free allowances). If you are from outside the EEA you should be prepared to show evidence of your studies, Red: if you have goods to declare finances and where you are going to stay. If you are Red (over the permitted duty free or tax refused entry, or given a very short period of free allowance). temporary admission, you should get help immediately from, the International Student Please check with the British Embassy if you are advisers at the University, or the Immigration not sure what goods you can bring to the UK. Advisory Service. For telephone numbers, see the Some food items may be prohibited. list at the back of this handbook.
UK airports are in a process of introducing eGates at immigration control. These can be used by citizens of Australia, Canada, Japan USA, New Zealand, Singapore and South Korea. If you are a non-visa national (e.g. USA, Japan, Canada…) and are planning to apply for a short-term student permission on arrival, please avoid eGates as you will need to speak to Border Officer to get a correct Short-term Student stamp in your passport.
16 #CHIUNI +44 (0)1243 812146 | [email protected] | chi.ac.uk/international 17 Where is the University of Chichester?
The University of Chichester is situated on the south coast of England, in the county of West Sussex. It is based on two sites, one in Bognor Regis and one in Chichester, about 7 miles (11 km) apart.
The University is 90 minutes by train from London and one hour from Gatwick airport. Set in an area of natural beauty, the location provides opportunities for sea, sport Edinburgh and leisure activities. Glasgow Both campuses are within easy walking distance of the train stations. There is also transport between the two sites, with buses running regular intervals. The journey between the two sites takes approximately 20 minutes. Belfast
Manchester
Central London Liverpool Heathrow Airport Birmingham
M25
M3 Cardiff London
Gatwick Airport Chichester Dover Calais Southampton Brighton Southampton Airport A286 A272 Portsmouth Bognor Regis A29 A23 M27 A3
M27 A3(M) Chichester Southampton A27 Le Havre Brighton Cherbourg Portsmouth Paris Bognor Regis
18 #CHIUNI +44 (0)1243 812146 | [email protected] | chi.ac.uk/international 19 Car Park Entrance Campus maps P
Bognor Regis Campus PO21 1HR
Car Park Entrance
P D 3 2 1 P D 10 7 8 9
4 5 6
11 Upper Bognor Road
P 1 Learning Resource Centre, Support and Information Zone (SIZ) 7 Students' Union (The Hub) Parking 2 Student Support Services 8 Otters Restaurant (Dining Hall) D Disabled Parking 3 John Parry Centre 9 Barbara Smith Halls/Accommodation Reception 4 Assembly Theatre 10 Tech Park 5 The Dome 11 Bus stop 6 Music and Dance Studio (St Michaels' House)
20 #CHIUNI +44 (0)1243 812146 | [email protected] | chi.ac.uk/international 21 Campus maps Bishop Otter Campus, Chichester PO19 6PE
1 Learning Resource Centre, Support and Information Zone (SIZ) 2 Bus stop 3 Academic Building P 17 15 4 Cloisters Lawn 5 Cloisters Corridor D 6 Students’ Union Shop 13 7 Dance Studios 16 8 Theatre Studios 14 9 The ShowRoom 10 Otters Restaurant 11 11 The Chapel 12 Tudor Hale Centre for Sport 13 Sports Dome 12 14 New Hall 8 18 9 10 15 Music 16 Accommodation Office 7 17 artOne 6 P 18 Students’ Union and Zee Bar 5 3 P Parking 4 D Disabled Parking 1 2 D
Pedestrian entrance Main entrance
22 #CHIUNI +44 (0)1243 812146 | [email protected] | chi.ac.uk/international 23 Travelling
If you are buying a return travel ticket to the UK, do Travelling from Heathrow Travelling from Gatwick COACH not plan to return home before the end of exams. You may have an exam on the last day of the Airport Airport Chichester: The National Express coach takes semester or a resit exam, so check the semester about 1 hour and 20 minutes. You can get a taxi dates on our website before booking your flights. TRAIN TRAIN from Chichester train station to your final destination in the city. Chichester: you will need to take either the Chichester: There is a direct train to Chichester How do I travel to the underground (Piccadilly line and then change to from the airport. The journey takes about 1 hour. Bognor Regis: There are no direct coaches to Bognor Regis from Gatwick airport. University of Chichester? Victoria line) or Heathrow express train into You can get a taxi from Chichester train station to central London. Trains to Chichester depart from your final destination in the city. London Victoria Station and take about 1 h 30 TAXI The University of Chichester has two campuses: minutes. You can get a taxi from Chichester train Bognor Regis: There is a direct train to Bognor Do not take an airport taxi as this could cost more Bishop Otter Campus in Chichester and Bognor station to your final destination in the city. Regis from the airport. The journey is about 1 hour than £200. If you decide to take a taxi, we Regis Campus. You should make sure you know and 15 minutes long. You can get a taxi from recommend you contact a local taxi company in which campus you will based at. Bognor Regis: you will need to take either the Bognor Regis train station to your final destination advance, to avoid expensive taxis from the airport. underground (Piccadilly line and then change to in the town. Information on both campuses is available on our Victoria line) or Heathrow express train into website. central London. Trains to Bognor Regis depart from London Victoria Station and take about 2 London has two main airports – Gatwick and hours. You can get a taxi from Bognor Regis train Heathrow – both have coach and train stations. station to your final destination in the town. Gatwick has direct trains to Bognor Regis and Chichester and it is closer to the South Coast than COACH Heathrow, so if you have a choice, it will be more convenient for you to fly to Gatwick. Chichester: National Express coaches take about 3hours 30 minutes and you will probably have to Both airports have information desks, where you change coach at Gatwick Airport or Portsmouth. can ask for travel information and directions to trains and bus stops. Bognor Regis: There are no direct coaches to Bognor Regis from Heathrow airport. From If you are coming to Chichester or Bognor Regis Heathrow it is best to go to Gatwick airport by through an airport other than Heathrow and coach and then take the train from Gatwick to Gatwick please get in touch with us if you need Bognor Regis. information on how to travel to the University. TAXI Do not take an airport taxi as this could cost over £200. If you decide to take a taxi, we recommend you contact a local taxi company in advance, to avoid expensive taxis from the airport.
24 #CHIUNI +44 (0)1243 812146 | [email protected] | chi.ac.uk/international 25 Arrival
What do I do when I first arrive? What if I don’t know Useful Websites where to go? Top Tip First of all, you will want to find your It is important that you tell us your arrival accommodation, so that you can settle in. Make Applicant Portal If you are not sure where to go on your first day, details, so that we know when to expect sure that you know where to go and at what time please go to the man reception at our Learning you and can support you in case of any you can arrive, so that someone is expecting you. International Orientation 2020/2021 Resource Centre. The staff at the Support and difficulties. Please complete our
Information for Pre-sessional Information Zone (SIZ) will be able to assist International Arrivals’ form online. You can We recommend that you arrive during the arrivals’ Students 2020/2021 you. You can find the SIZ opening hours and find it on our website under Orientation weekend organised by the University and the contact details our website. information. Students’ Union in September. If you start your studies before or after the September arrivals’ weekend, you should plan to arrive on a working
day during normal office hours. You should also find out which campus you need to Pre-registration & registration go to: Bognor Regis or Bishop Otter It is a good idea to move into your accommodation (Chichester) Campus. a day or two before your programme starts, so Before you start your studies, we will send you an that you can have some rest before you attend If you are an International top-up student, email asking you to pre-register onto your course. your orientation and induction events. Our MA/MSc, PhD/MPhil or an exchange/study You will need to complete this online process accommodation team would be happy to amend abroad student and due to start your programme before we can fully register you in- person. your accommodation booking dates if you wish to at a different point of the year e.g. end of arrive a couple of days before your September, October, January or February, make Your Orientation or Induction Programme will tell accommodation contract is due to start. sure you check your offer and welcome letters for you where you need to go to register in-person information on the induction, orientation and and what documents to bring with you. You will welcome arrangements. receive your Student card at the registration event.
What happens when I arrive at You MUST bring the following documents the University? with you: • International students: Your passport, visa and Make sure you know when your Orientation, visa decision letter (if you have one) Induction or Registration Programme starts so that • EU/EEA students: EU ID card or passport you can plan your arrival. You can check your • Your original qualifications you used to obtain Induction programme details via the applicant your offer to study at Chichester (Tier 4 portal and International Orientation information students can find a list of qualification on their can be accessed on our website. CAS “evidence used to obtain offer” section on page 2) • Evidence of how you are going to pay your fees (SFE loan letter, US loan confirmation etc.)
26 #CHIUNI +44 (0)1243 812146 | [email protected] | chi.ac.uk/international 27 Orientation programme for What about language international and EU students support?
We have a special Orientation We plan to provide you opportunities to: All International students are able to enrol on our International Academic & Language support Programme for all new • Get to know other international and EU students; (IALs). • Get to know key University members of staff; International and EU students. • Learn more about the structure of the University This package of support will help you adapt to life in and your Programme; a new country, ease the transition into UK Higher This programme can take place before the subject • Learn about our dedicated support for Education, offer academic and language support (if inductions or it can be integrated into your induction international and EU students; English is not your first language) and help you programme. • Ask any questions you have about academic life as achieve your best throughout your course. well as social and everyday life at Chichester. All international and EU students should attend the Specifically, and at no extra cost, the package offers Orientation events/activities as they are designed to Check our Orientation website for more you: help you settle into your new life and studies in the information on the different Orientation events and UK. activities in 2020/2021. • Tutorial support of up to 3 hours per student per semester, to help you improve your academic English and other academic skills and to help you plan, carry out and check your coursework; • Weekly classes in English Language Studies • Additional time and the use of bilingual dictionaries in seen examinations; • A point of contact if you need advice or are not sure where to go; • On-going contact and social opportunities with other international and EU students; • Access to dedicated Moodle resources
Academic Skills Advisor In addition to IALs support, you will also be able to attend workshops on different aspects of study skills such as improving your reading, writing and exam preparation skills. This support is open to all students through our Academic Skills Advisor.
28 #CHIUNI +44 (0)1243 812146 | [email protected] | chi.ac.uk/international 29 Student Support & Wellbeing
helping with your immigration queries or dealing with Where can I get help? personal problems. Visit the International Student Support section on our website to find The Support and Information Zone (SIZ) out more. located at the Learning Resource Centres at both campuses, is your first point of contact for all your You can also contact UK Council for questions and concerns. The SIZ team will do their International Student Affairs (UKCISA) for a best to assist you or they can refer you to the correct range of advice including immigration, Brexit, fees service. and wellbeing.
Personal tutors What should I do if I have a As a student at the University, you will have your disability or an additional own personal tutor to advise you on academic learning requirement? matters relating to your course. Your tutor will be allocated to you during your first week of studies.
Student Support & Wellbeing We are committed to providing facilities and services to meet the requirements of students with a wide The Student Support & Wellbeing range of needs. Here are some examples: dyslexia, department is available to support you throughout visual and hearing impairments, mobility impairments, your studies at Chichester. Services offered include mental health issues, Asperger’s syndrome, chronic general/personal advice, support for different faiths medical conditions e.g. diabetes, epilepsy, asthma. (religion), counselling, disability support, mental health advice and general health and academic skills We strongly recommend that you contact the advice. Disability Support Team to discuss what support you might need. All personal information will be • Student Health treated as strictly confidential and will not affect the • Uinmind – Mental Health Advice Service decision about your eligibility for the course. • UTalk – Counselling Service • Student Wellbeing Adviser Team If you have a disability or any additional need for • Chaplaincy which you require support or special arrangements • Disability Support Team please let us know in advance, so that we can help • Student Money Advice you plan your time here with us.
International Student Advisers (ISAs) Päivi Leivo and Jane Smith, are part of the Student Support & Wellbeing department and are here to help international and EU students settle into life in the UK. You will meet us at the orientation event or your induction event at the beginning of your studies.
We can assist you with a range of matters including practical advice on any aspect of living in the UK to
30 #CHIUNI +44 (0)1243 812146 | [email protected] | chi.ac.uk/international 31 Where will I live?
It is essential that you feel happy have washing and toilet facilities along the corridor. Living in halls of residence during term-time can be and comfortable wherever you fun if you want to integrate with other students. Please be aware, however, that since the are living, as this will affect your accommodation is shared blocks with other students, ability to study and enjoy your it is not always quiet.
time in England. Most halls of residence are catered, which means that you have a daily credit of around £8 a day You should remember that accommodation in the (Monday to Friday) and £4 a day (Saturday and UK might be different from what you are used to and Sunday) to spend in the restaurants and cafes at both it might take a little time for you to adjust. The type campuses. Small kitchens are available for making of accommodation you are offered will depend on drinks and snacks. Bishop Otter Campus has some the length and type of course you are doing. accommodation options with self-catering (e.g. Stockbridge & Fishbourne, Havenstoke). Every room If you are coming to the university on a pre-sessional comes with internet connection and you can connect course in June or August you should see our to the University Wi-Fi (eduroam) on campus. pre-sessional accommodation information for full details on your options for the duration this Cost: approx. £118.23 – £177.17 per week. course. The contract must be signed for the full academic year. However, exchange students staying for one Halls of residence on campus semester are able to sign a contract to cover a (university accommodation) shorter period.
Check our website for more information on the Each student has a study bedroom with a single bed, differenthalls of residence options available. desk and wardrobe space. Some rooms have their own toilet/shower room (en-suite). Standard rooms
32 #CHIUNI +44 (0)1243 812146 | [email protected] | chi.ac.uk/international 33 Contact the accommodation team before your Renting privately Which option should I choose? arrival to request a pack for your room.
Private home Choosing your accommodation can be a difficult task If you are due to start your studies in January or if Living in a private home means that you live in especially if you are outside the UK. In general, we you are an exchange or study abroad student, you somebody’s home but on a more independent basis. would recommend university-owned, or private should email our accommodation team directly to This option is mainly available in the Bognor Regis home accommodation initially (when you first enquire about the application process. area with a very limited availability in Chichester. This arrive). is usually under a self-catering arrangement which means you would be given access to the kitchen to You can find more information on things to consider Electrical equipment prepare your own meals. when choosing on your accommodation option on the International Student Support section on In the UK, electrical appliances run on 240 volts, 50 Cost: approx. £80 – £110 per week without meals. our website. Topics include: UK-based guarantors, Hz AC. If you want to bring electrical equipment, right-to-rent checks, contract lengths, council tax please check to make sure that it is compatible. If you Shared housing exemptions etc. need an adapter, it is best to buy it before you leave Another option for off-campus accommodation is home, if you buy some electrical appliances once you living in a shared house with other students. If you are not certain which type of accommodation have arrived in the UK, then you will not need an We have a dedicated website that allows you to look would be best for you, please contact the adapter to run them. If you are bringing a computer for university-accredited private accommodation in Accommodation Office. They can help you and would like to make sure your equipment is Chichester and Bognor Regis. Our Private Sector choose the option most suited to your needs. compatible, please email the helpdesk. Please note Housing Officer can provide advice on housing and that any heat emitting electrical appliances such as accessing this website. You need to contact the When and how do I apply for rice cookers, hairdryers and hair straighteners should owner yourself and make your own arrangements not be used with adapters. with them. Normally, you would have to sign a 12- halls of residence month contract and will be required to provide a UK- accommodation? based guarantor. Usually, you would share the house with other students and be responsible for your own bills. However, some landlords will include the bills in If you have accepted your study offer at the the rent. University of Chichester, you will be contacted around May with information on how to apply for Top Tip: The University cannot accept any responsibility for university accommodation via the accommodation any legal contracts you enter into, so be careful portal. Check our website for more information Yumika, BA in Tourism Management, Japan before signing any agreements with private landlords on the application process. Consider of your accommodation options and seek advice if you have any queries. carefully! There is a free intersite campus As an international student you are guaranteed a bus between the two campuses, so you can Useful Websites Cost: approx. £70 – £110 per week (plus bills) for a room in the halls of residence, as long as you apply choose to live in Chichester and study in single room in a shared house. for a room by 1st August and you firmly accept your Bognor Regis or vice versa. For me it was University of Chichester study place at the University. important to be able to cook my own food, Accommodation options For advice on finding a private home or shared so I chose to live in one of the off-campus UK Council for International housing, please contact the Accommodation You will also be entitled to a free bedding pack, which (self-catered) halls of residence options in Student Affairs Office. includes pillows, a duvet, sheets, pillowcases, duvet Chichester and travel to Bognor Regis cover and towels. Campus for my lectures. Education UK
34 #CHIUNI +44 (0)1243 812146 | [email protected] | chi.ac.uk/international 35 What about money?
(ISAs). You can request this letter via the ISAs Living expenses Moodle pages once you have fully registered onto your course. In addition to the letter you will need Top Tips for managing your passport or EU identity card and your visa (if You are likely to need around £250 per week for your money: living costs (including rent and food). How much you you have one).
actually spend will depend on your needs and Apply for a NUS/TOTUM student personal lifestyle. You can find more information on It is a good idea to do some research on UK banks before committing to opening an account with one discount card to receive student discounts additional costs and living expenses on our at shops, restaurants, cinemas etc. website. of them. Some banks offer good deals while others charge high fees for international students. You Download the MyUniDAys app to find If you are a Tier 4 student, the UK Visas and should also consider how easy it is for you to visit the more student discounts. Immigration expect you to have £1,015 per month bank, what services they offer in the branch or online Walk, cycle or use the free intersite for living costs. and whether there are any monthly or overdraft campus bus U7/U8 for travel. charges you should be aware of.
Prepare your own packed lunch. You can Here is a list of the major UK banks in the local area: use the microwaves on campus to heat your What about cash? Barclays, Halifax, HSBC, Lloyds, Santander, food. Natwest, The Royal Bank of Scotland, We recommend that you have approximately £400- Nationwide Bring your own water bottle and refill it up £450 (GBP) cash on arrival to the UK. Do not carry using the water fountains on campus. more as it may get lost or stolen. It is best to open a UK bank account as soon as possible and transfer Online bank account more funds electronically at a later date.
It might be a good idea to bring any other money in It is also possible to open an online bank account Useful Websites the form of pre-paid travel cards, currency cards or with some specialist international student bank traveller’s cheques. account providers e.g. the Aspire account with Student budget planner – Planning Uni Zest. This type of bank account is fully online Your Budget whilst at University If you are planning on using a non-UK debit or credit and you will need to pay a monthly management fee. Money Advice Service – Budget card, please contact your bank in advance to make If you do not qualify for a standard bank account Planner sure you find out whether it is possible and if there because your course is less than 6 months long, this are any additional charges to be considered. type of account might be a good option for you. UKCISA – Bringing Money to the UK
British Council – Money and budgeting Student Money Advice Can I open a bank account? If you need any help with managing your money If you are in the UK for longer than 6 months, it is while studying in the UK our Money advisers are possible for you to open a bank account. Money can here to guide you. They can help you with budget then be transferred to your UK bank account from planning and money management and can explain your home country. what financial help might be available to you.
To open a bank account, you will need a letter of introduction from the International Student Advisers
36 #CHIUNI +44 (0)1243 812146 | [email protected] | chi.ac.uk/international 37 Can I work while I am a student?
If you are a dependant of a Tier 4 students who The NI number application is simple. You need to call Who can I talk to about Can I work while I am a student? studying at the University of Chichester, you are the National Insurance Number helpline once finding work in the UK? allowed to work. you are in the UK. They will ask you some questions EU/EEA + Swiss nationals and family about your personal circumstances and you will The Careers and Employability Team can help with members If you are in the UK on a short-term study visa, you either be invited to an interview or you will be asked finding work or postgraduate study, developing If you are in the UK by 31st December 2020, you will are not allowed to work, volunteer or take part in to post some documents to verify your identity. If connections and skills, going freelance or starting a not face any restrictions on your right to reside, work placements. you need any help with this the International Student business. We’ll assist with searching for jobs, work, study or access health care in the UK. In order Advisers can assist you. choosing a career, completing and sharpening an to keep these rights an application under the EU What if I am not sure if I am allowed to application form or CV. settlement scheme must be made. work? If you are not sure if you are allowed to work, please Whether you’re seeking part time work, are If you arrive in the UK after 31st December 2020, contact the International Student Advisers and we interested in volunteering or looking to brush up you will need to apply for an immigration permission can advise you. It is better to be certain of your right your skillset, our Careers and Employability team and we assume that the permission will include work to work as it is a criminal offence to work if you do have all the resources you need. Visit us at the restrictions similar Tier 4 visa holders. For more not have permission, or to work for more hours than Careers Centre in Chichester, at the Careers Desk in information on this visa route please visit the UK those authorised by the government. Bognor Regis and look out for our events on Visas and Immigration website.
campus. What is the minimum wage Tier 4 (General) visa holders Careers guidance Tier 4 students studying at degree level or above can in the UK? Professionally trained Careers Consultants can work up to 20 hours per week during term-time and discuss any aspect of your career decisions, and work full-time during vacations. The hourly rate for the minimum wage depends on with you to understand your ideas and develop your your age. You can see the regulations and current skills to help you plan for your future. Tier 4 Students on courses below degree level (e.g. minimum wage rates on the UK government Pre-Sessional course) can work up to 10 hours per website. Job hunting support week during term-time and full-time during vacations. Our south coast location makes it ideal to find work, either full or part-time and we have the connections If you have been issued a CAS for a part-time degree How do I apply for a National to help you. Our job-hunting service provides: at level RQF 7 or above, you are not allowed to Insurance Number? • Finding part-time work and placements work, volunteer or take part in work placements. • Checking and updating your CV Your National Insurance (NI) number is your own • Searching for graduate roles and schemes There are some restrictions in terms of what kind of personal account number. It is unique to you and you • Booking a Careers Guidance appointment work you can do as a Tier 4 student. Please check keep the same one all your life. It makes sure that the our website for more information on Tier 4 visa NI contributions and tax you pay are properly Whether you know exactly what you’d like to do and employment. recorded against your name. after university, or really don’t know where to start,
we are here to help you. For more information, Others, e.g. PBS dependants, ILR, Short- Every person who works in the UK is assessed for please visit the Careers and Employability term students, etc… the amount of NI they have to pay. The amount webpages. Your vignette/Biometric Residence Permit will tell depends on how much you earn. If you are an you if you are allowed to work or not. international student and you have the right to work
in the UK you will need a National Insurance number so that you can be assessed correctly.
38 #CHIUNI +44 (0)1243 812146 | [email protected] | chi.ac.uk/international 39 What about Income Tax?
Income tax is deducted from your pay by your employer. Each employee has a personal allowance which tells you how much you can earn before paying tax. If your earnings are below your personal allowance then you do not pay any tax. For more information on income tax please visit the UK government website. UKCISA also has a lot of useful information on tax and NI.
Can I work in the UK after my studies?
EU/EEA and Swiss students (and family members) who have applied for a pre-settled or settled status can continue to live and work in the UK without restrictions. If you arrive in the UK after 31st December 2020, you will need a permission to work. Information regarding this will be available on the UK Visas and Immigration website in due course.
If you are a Tier 4 student you can have a look at the following options for staying in the UK to work: • Post-study work visa option due to be introduced in 2021. • Tier 2 visa • Tier 5 youth mobility visa • Doctorate Extension Scheme (available for Useful Websites Phd students) UKCISA student blog ‘ A working There may be other immigration routes available to definition’ your depending on your circumstances. You can UKCISA – Tier 4 & work contact the International Student Advisers for more information. We can also refer you to an external Tier 4 Policy Guidance immigration adviser in the local area. For more information on working after your studies please visit Employer’s guide to right to work the UKCISA website checks Preventing illegal working
40 #CHIUNI +44 (0)1243 812146 | [email protected] | chi.ac.uk/international 41 What about health care?
with a bilateral healthcare agreement with the UK are Nurse Health Advisers entitled to free National Health Service (NHS) treatment until the transition period ends on 31st While you are studying in the UK it is very important December 2020. EU/EEA nationals must apply for to look after your health. The University has a an EHIC card before leaving home. For more student Health Centre on both campuses where you information please visit the European can access information. You can visit the Nurse Commission website. Health Advisers there if you have any health concerns. If you are an EU/EEA national (or a family member) and have applied to stay in the UK under the EU You can find the Nurse Health Advisers’ contact Settlement Scheme you will continue to have free details and other useful information on our website. access to the NHS services.
Please inform the Nurse Health Advisers if you have Do I need private medical/travel insurance? any pre-existing health problems or take regular Even if you can be treated by the NHS for most medication that you will need during your stay (for health needs, the NHS does not cover all risks. You example epilepsy or diabetes). should consider taking out a travel/medical insurance before leaving your country of residence. Additional On arrival in the UK it is important that you register insurance cover can be helpful in many situations e.g. with a doctors’ (GP) practice. The Nurse Health if you fall ill and want to transported home for Advisers can give advice and information of doctors treatment or if you want a family member to stay in and surgeries near to your UK address. the UK to look after you. For example, Endsleigh and Cover 4 Insurance offer specialist insurances for international students in the UK. Do I need medical insurance?
For students staying less than 6 months Useful Websites If your course lasts less than six months, you should take out medical insurance from a reputable THE UK COUNCIL FOR company before leaving your country. Although INTERNATIONAL STUDENT emergencies will be dealt with, no other treatment is AFFAIRS (UKCISA) WEBSITE available to you unless you have insurance or can pay for the treatment yourself. NURSE HEALTH ADVISERS’ – STUDENT HEALTH WEBSITE For students staying 6 months and over UK GOVERNMENT WEBSITE – If you are applying for a visa to study in the UK for HEALTH SURCHARGE more than 6 months you will pay a health surcharge fee as part of your visa application process. The fee is UK GOVERNMENT WEBSITE – EU currently £300 per year. By paying this fee you will SETTLEMENT SCHEME – YOUR have access to the National Health Service (NHS). RIGHTS WITH PRE-SETTLED AND SETTLED STATUS Exception: Students from the EU/EEA or countries
42 #CHIUNI +44 (0)1243 812146 | [email protected] | chi.ac.uk/international 43 Further information
The most popular and the cheapest ways to Do I need to register with What about religious needs? Useful Websites communicate with family and friends is to use various the police? apps such as Whatsap, Wechat, Snapcat, Instagram, Skype, Line, Facetime, Messenger etc. whilst Sussex Police Nationality Unit – Police The University of Chichester is an international place All relevant foreign nationals are required to connected to free Wifi! Registration Information of education where you will find people of most register with Sussex Police Nationality Unit. If you faiths and also those of none. We try in many ways are unsure, you will need to check your visa which International Student Advisers – Visas to meet your particular needs in all areas of life, To find out about on campus Wifi and internet will clearly show this registration as a condition of and Immigration section including religious belief and special dietary access (and IT in general) please visit our your stay if it is required. requirements due to religious beliefs. We have a help pages. chapel of worship and also rooms for individual Police Registration is by appointment only, and prayer and meditation which are open to people of organised centrally by Sussex Police Nationality Unit. Will I get a student ID card? Which Campus will I be based at all faiths. Please get in touch with our Chaplain who Do not try to register at the local Police Station in the would be happy to hear from you if you need area where you are living. Please do not worry if you for my studies? someone to talk to or if you would like to find out All registered students receive a student ID card, can’t register within 7 days of arrival – the more about local faith communities. which can be used to prove that you are a student. department responsible for registration are very busy Knowing which campus your lectures and workshops The same ID card can be used to borrow books and realise that this may be impossible. are based at is important when planning your travel from the library, access university buildings and travel and booking your accommodation. The two How do I keep in contact with on the free U7/U8 bus service. Please note that you need to update your Police campuses are about 7 miles apart and a free intersite friends and family ? Registration Certificate every time your (U7/U8) campus bus can be used to travel between circumstances change e.g. your address changes. This the sites. If you are planning to bring your mobile phone with What is a TOTUM card? can be done at the nearest Police Station in Chichester or Bognor Regis. SUBJECT AREAS BASED ON OUR you, make sure it can be used in the UK. If you CHICHESTER (BISHOP OTTER) CAMPUS continue to use your non-UK SIM card you should In order to benefit from a range of discounts you can find out what extra charges your phone company receive as a full-time student, you should apply for a SUBJECT AREAS BASED ON OUR might make for using your data abroad. Some TOTUM card. This card can be used in various companies can charge a lot of money for shops, restaurants, cinemas etc. to get a student BOGNOR REGIS CAMPUS Top Tip: international calls and data usage. discount on products and services.
Let the International Student Advisers – Getting a UK phone contract/SIM card is simple. You Paivi Leivo and Jane Smith know that you How many students are there? can either find a phone shop in town or apply online need to register for the first time so they via any of the popular phone companies. If you have What about safety? can help you book an appointment on your The University has the high academic standards of a not lived in the UK before you might be limited in behalf. large institution, but the total number of students is terms of your options – Pay-as-you-go contract/SIM To make sure that your time in the UK is safe and small when compared with large city universities. We only contract might be the only option available to enjoyable please download the British Council’s combine excellent academic facilities with a friendly, you. Have a look at the Money Saving Expert’s Personal Safety Guide. It is rare that one of our personal approach that is only possible in smaller advice on mobile phone contracts. students experience a dangerous situation, but it may universities. be useful to have some information on what to do, You will have access to free Wifi on campus and in just in case you need it. The Personal Safety Guide is During normal academic year (September to May) the halls of residence. You will also be able to a good place to start. The International Student there are approximately 5000 students at the connect to free Wifi in various locations in Advisers will hand out more safety information University and about 3% of those are international Chichester and Bognor Regis. including important telephone numbers at the students. international orientation events and talks.
44 #CHIUNI +44 (0)1243 812146 | [email protected] | chi.ac.uk/international 45 The temperature does not often drop below zero about drinking alcohol. You can order non-alcoholic What about culture shock? degrees Celsius (32 degrees Fahrenheit), but the drinks and most pubs offer food too. Some pubs dampness can make it seem colder in the winter and organise events such as quiz nights, game nights and It is good to be prepared for you time in the UK by humid in the summer. The warmest months are June, Karaoke. researching the UK culture, customs, history, July and August and the coldest usually December, weather, food etc. beforehand. January and February. Smoking – Smoking is not allowed in places of work in the UK. You should always go outside to Britain is a diverse multicultural country with regional You might find it cheaper to buy some types of smoke and stand far from any buildings. The halls of differences. Customs and the way English is spoken clothing after you have arrived in the UK, but if you residence are all non-smoking areas and we ask can vary depending on where in the UK you will be. arrive in the colder months (October to April), make everyone to respect this. How you experience your new surroundings will sure you have a coat and a jumper with you. depend on your own background and personality as Food – British food does not have a good well as on how well you are prepared for your time international reputation, and this is one of the main abroad. The most important thing is to be open- What about British Culture? things international students are worried about. minded and to be prepared to accept that things will However, as this is a multicultural country you will be be different. Different does not mean good or bad – The UK has a diverse population so if is difficult to able to find international food and ingredients readily it is just different and getting used to different things say what is characteristically British behaviour. We available in shops, restaurants and online. The most can be exciting as well as confusing. have tried to list some “typical” British behaviour and famous British food you should definitely try during
customs here in order to give you a little insight into your stay are: traditional English breakfast; Fish & When adjusting to a new environment you may what to expect. Chips; roast dinner; and baked beans on toast. experience something called “culture shock”. This is a
normal part of an adjustment process and it has Manners – British people use please and thank you Have a look at the Great British Mag, British different stages to it. Check theUKCISA website a lot! For example, thanking a bus driver when getting Council and UKCISA websites to help prepare to read more about the stages, symptoms and how off the bus and saying sorry when someone else yourself for some aspects of British culture and to cope with the shock. Just remember that we are steps on your foot is considered normal. customs. here to support you throughout your studies.
Queuing and being on time – Queueing is You can contact the International Student Advisers What is the local area like? considered an important part of British way of life. or the Uinmind Mental Health Team if you need You will see queues in shops, banks and at bus stops support with adjusting to your new surroundings. Chichester and Bognor Regis are located in the and train stations. Queue-jumping is considered Other international students who are going through county of West Sussex on the South Coast, which is rude. If you are unsure of the rules, ask people the same experiences as you can also be a great famous for its beaches and hiking trails along the around you. It is ok to ask where the queue ends and source of support. South Downs national park. You can take part in take your place there. Being on time is also important many outdoor activities such as surfing, wind-surfing, in the UK. If you have to cancel and agreed canoeing, swimming, cycling, hiking, horse riding etc. appointment/meeting or if you are late, you should What will the weather be like? call to explain and offer apologies. This applies to You can find a high street lined with smaller shops in being late to lectures, workshops and tutorials at the Useful Websites The weather in Britain is rather unpredictable. It can the centre of both towns as well as bigger retail parks University too! rain on any day of the year, so you will need a with supermarkets (Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Lidl, Aldi, EXPERIENCE WEST SUSSEX waterproof coat, good shoes and possibly an Iceland, M&S etc.) on the outskirts. The U7 bus can Pub culture – Pubs are popular meeting places in umbrella. Of course there are also many sunny days - be used to travel to the retail park area. the UK. They are places where people go to UNIVERSITY OF CHICHESTER – Chichester is one of the sunniest places in the UK! LIVING HERE socialise, relax and have a drink. Pubs are not always
46 #CHIUNI +44 (0)1243 812146 | [email protected] | chi.ac.uk/international 47 Where can I find more about What about buses in Bognor Can I visit other European travelling in the UK? Regis and Chichester? countries?
You may want to visit other parts of the UK whilst There is a comprehensive network of buses running With Paris only three hours from London by train being a student at Chichester. Both, Chichester and within the local area and also connecting to other and many European destinations within easy reach, Bognor Regis, have a train station with regular direct towns and cities, such as Brighton and Portsmouth. you may want to combine your time at the University trains to places such as Portsmouth & Southsea, Bus timetables are available online via the with a visit to another European country. Southampton, Brighton and London. You can Stagecoach website. connect from these locations to visit places further We recommend that you check whether you need a afield! There is a free intersite campus bus U7/U8 which visa for the country you would like to visit. Many runs between Chichester and Bognor Regis between European countries have joined together to form the To help you save on the cost of train journeys, you Monday and Friday. Students can use the non- Schengen area for which you only need to obtain one can purchase a 16-15 railcard which will give you university bus service in the evenings and at visa, rather than one for each of the participating 1/3 off all your rail tickets. Students over the age of weekends for a discounted student price. For more countries. Visit our visas and immigration 25 can also apply for this card as long as they are on a information, please visit the Students’ Union website to find out more about Schengen visa and full-time course of at least 20 weeks in length. Please website. how to apply for it. You can also find a lot of useful note that you will have to pay an application fee of information on these websites: UKCISA and the about £30 for a 12-month card. However, if you are European Commission. going to use the rail service a lot, it is worth paying What about driving in the UK? the fee and getting the discount card. Visit the National Rail website for information train times If you already hold a driving licence, you may be and tickets. allowed to drive in the UK. You have to make sure that you have a valid licence, road tax and insurance. The National Express Coaches, Mega busses Check if you can use your driving licence to drive in and Flix bus can also be used to travel within the the UK by using this online tool. Read more about UK and to destinations in other European countries. driving in the UK on the UKCISA website.
What about taxis in the local area?
If you are returning home late at night, it is advisable to book a taxi. Local taxis are reasonably priced. A journey within the town is likely to cost £8-£10. Travelling to a next town may cost around £20. If you share a taxi, you can divide the price between the number of passengers. You can find a taxi office outside both Chichester and Bognor Regis train stations.
48 #CHIUNI +44 (0)1243 812146 | [email protected] | chi.ac.uk/international 49 What can I do in my spare time?
We encourage all students to get
involved in cultural, social and Top Tip: Sam, BA (Hons) Media Studies with sports activities, both on and off International English, Estonia
campus. This will help you mix If you can't find exactly what you're looking
for then you can start your own society.
with other students and start Get in touch with the Students’ Union and
they can help you with this. making friends.
Are there sports and exercise The Students’ Union
facilities on campus? The Students' Union (SU) organises various events and activities on campus. Both campuses have The Tudor Hale Sports Centre based at our an SU bar and a social area, where students can relax Bishop Otter Campus is open to all university during the date and take part in various events and students regardless of their campus base or what parties in the evenings. Joining the SU societies is a they study. The centre has a gym, climbing walls, great way to help you settle into UK University life laboratories, tennis and badminton courts as well as and it is a good way to meet like-minded people. football and rugby pitches. Check the centre’s website for membership prices and opening times. Freshers’ Week is organised the SU at the beginning of every academic year. This is a week of activities Students based at Bognor Regis Campus can join a and events for first year students an it runs alongside local gym, Arun Leisure Centre, which is about your academic Induction week. The SU have lots of 10 min walk from the campus. The leisure centre has activities planned for every day of the week including a gym, fitness classes and a swimming pool and it a Freshers’ Fair which everyone should attend! You offers a discounted student membership for can get lots of useful information and freebies e.g. University of Chichester students. food, samples, discount vouchers etc. at this event. Check the Freshers’ Fair/Week information on the SU website. We’d recommend that you check What else is on at the University? these two interesting schemes organised by the SU - the SU Language Café and the SU Buddy Our excellent Dance, Music, Theatre and Musical Scheme. Theatre departments organise lots of of student-lead productions on campus. Some events are free and some offer student discounts. Make sure you don’t miss out on these great opportunities and keep checking the latest events and activities which are listed here: Showcase online brochure.
You can also find a lot of university-based activities and events advertised on our Chilife website.
50 #CHIUNI +44 (0)1243 812146 | [email protected] | chi.ac.uk/international 51
What about local leisure facilities Coach trips to UK destinations and activities in town? We offer a coach trips to places of interest that are Here are some ideas for things to do in Chichester open to all students. The trip destinations include and Bognor Regis. Bath, Oxford, Cambridge, Windsor and Stonehenge. • Local libraries – Bognor Regis town library & Look out for our planned events on the Chichester Central Library are good places International Students’ Facebook Group or to find out about different local activities and Chilife. clubs. • Tourist Information Centres: Chichester – The Novium Museum & Bognor Regis – The Can I organise to visit a
Regis Centre UK family? • Theatres: The Alexandra Theatre in Bognor Regis and the Chichester Festival Theatre • The New Park Centre – An independent If you would like to see more of Britain you can cinema and activities/classes in Chichester apply to spend a weekend with a British family via • The Picture Dome – Bognor Regis based HostUK. This is a voluntary cinema with affordable student discount tickets! organisation which provides • Aspire Sussex – Information on adult education homestay weekends for courses and other services in Chichester and international students in a wide Bognor Regis. range of interesting locations. • Chichester Gate Leisure Park – Cineworld, Ten The hosts are all volunteers who want to provide pin bowling, Air Arena (trampolining), restaurants international students with an insight into life in etc. Britain and students can share their culture with the hosts. By helping students far from home feel welcome in the UK, HostUK contributes to What about weekends? international friendship and goodwill.
You will normally not have any classes at the weekend, so you are free to make your own arrangements to visit local attractions, spend time Top Tip: with friends or event travel around the UK. The Learning Resource Centres (LRCs) on both Sam, BA (Hons) Media Studies with campuses are open at weekends and late at night. International English, Estonia Costa Coffee Cafes in the LRCs are also open during Make sure to always take part in the term-time. international events! The friends I made then I am still close to today. The international events will also give you a prime opportunity to relax, see the local areas and visit some on the UK’s most popular tourist destinations.
52 #CHIUNI +44 (0)1243 812146 | [email protected] | chi.ac.uk/international 53 Is it easy to make friends?
Wherever you choose to study, it will take some effort on your part to integrate with other students.
But you will find that, you are open to others, they Top Tips: will also respond to you and you will soon make Marta, BA in Music Performance and Acting friends. for Film, Lithuania. Students’ Union International Student Officer 2019/2020 The University has a relatively small student If English is not your first language speaking population, so you will find a warm and welcoming to native English speakers can feel scary at community. This can make it easier to mix with other first. My advice is this: don't be afraid to students, as you will be in smaller classes where speak English. Try not to be put off because everyone knows each other. of your accent or if you don’t know how to
pronounce something. It is okay to make We encourage you to join in the on-and off-campus mistakes and not understand everything at activities available at the university and in the local the beginning. We’ve all been there. People communities. Here are some suggestions: are kind and with time things will be easier. • Attend the International orientation You will be mixing with students and staff activities and events we have planned for you. from all around the UK and the world, so As well as getting a lot of useful information and you will find that there are so many practical advice, attending these events will help different accents and dialects of English. you get to know other international students, who can be a great source of support during your studies in the UK. • Join the official Facebook groups set up by the Students’ Union (SU) and the University to find out about useful information and connect with other students before you arrive. Check the SU website for all the FB groups available in Useful Social Media 2020/2021; • Try to join as many of the social events run by the Websites SU as you can; • Join clubs, sports teams, orchestras, drama and Connect with the University’s official social dance clubs; media channels to keep up to date with our • Work for the University as a student latest news! ambassador; • Volunteer with the SU, University or the local Facebook: @universityofchichester community. Instagram: @universityofchichester • Join the Chiuni International Students’ Facebook group, run by the International Snapchat: @chiuni student Advisers and the SU International Officer. This will help you get to know other international Twitter: @chiuni students and keep up to date with events, YouTube: University of Chichester activities and volunteering and work opportunities for international students.
54 #CHIUNI +44 (0)1243 812146 | [email protected] | chi.ac.uk/international 55 Students' Union Welcome
The Students’ Union is more than a bar! It supports over 25 sports cubs and 20 more than 20 societies.
The great thing about these is that you can join any of them. Joining a club or a society is a great way to find new friends with similar interest. The SU bars and shops are also great places for students to find part-time employment. More information on the SU and what is on offer visit the SU website.
Meet the Students’ Union President and International Officer
Moyin Ekundayo, Amy Deng, International Students’ Union Officer 2020/2021 President 2019/2020 & I have been elected to 2020/2021 represent international The University of Chichester students’ views at the Students’ Union is here to Students’ Union and will be make sure that your time here working to improve is the best it can be - in fact; international students’ it’s our mission and vision to help ALL students have experience during the academic year 2020/2021. As the BEST time they can whilst at the University of an international student myself I know how exciting Chichester, and to build, with the University, the best and challenging it can be to start a new life in a student community in the UK. foreign country. I will be here to welcome you in Our overall aim is to have a positive impact on the September, but if you have any questions in the lives of all our students. Please if you see me around meantime, please get in touch with us - myself of feel free to chat with me. You can also contact me Marta, the current SU International Officer, with any before you are in the UK by emailing me questions or feedback you may have. You can find [email protected] our contact details on the SU website.
56 #CHIUNI +44 (0)1243 812146 | [email protected] | chi.ac.uk/international 57 Top tips from our international students
Top Tips: Top Tips: Marta, BA in Music Yumika, BA in Performance and Tourism Acting for Film, Management, Japan Lithuania. Students’ If I could give Union International myself advice on Student Officer how to prepare for 2019/2020 life at Chichester, I You will be coming to the sunniest place in would tell myself to find out more about the UK, so you don’t have to be prepared the UK and the local area in advance. for too much rain! Although the weather Knowing where to shop for food and can be miserable in January and February, how the local transport works were Top Tips: so be prepared and bring an umbrella/ things that I struggled with during my waterproof coat. first week here. Eventually things Sam, BA (Hons) Media Studies with International English, Estonia. started to make sense. Students Union International Officer 2016/2017 & 2017/2018 My tip for new students is to have an open University provides great accommodation if you're looking for convenience and a mind, accept social invitations from your My top tip is to ask for help! People guarantee of meeting new people. If, however, you are keen to keep the costs of fellow students and local people you get to around here are really kind and prepared accommodation lower, there are great Facebook groups by students where they know. Embrace your time in the UK by not to help. Another tip is to bring your advertise out student accommodation rooms for great prices and near the university. Alternatively, you limiting your experience to just staying on favourite food/ingredients from home. It can also search for apartments or rooms around in Chichester or Bognor. If you are in your second or campus. Chichester, Bognor Regis and the is not always easy to find food you are third year you can speak to the accommodation team about the university’s guarantor scheme. south coast of England are great places to used to using and having them with you explore. What I enjoy most about life here can make a big difference when you are Chichester is a small university and this is means that you as a student will always be able to have one-to- is the diversity and the freedom to be missing something familiar from home. It one appointments with your tutor and trust me when I say USE THEM! I wish I had started seeing my myself. Be brave, ask for help when you is also nice to share your country’s tutor before I reached my final year. They are there for a reason and will be able to help you with any need it and enjoy your time at Chichester. culture and cuisine with others. issues regarding to your studies.
58 #CHIUNI +44 (0)1243 812146 | [email protected] | chi.ac.uk/international 59 Useful contact details
Your time in the UK can truly Support and Information Zone (SIZ) Opening Times are available on the above website. be a happy and rewarding Please note that the SIZ may have restricted opening times during August and early September. experience. Contact We encourage you to plan ahead to make sure that Telephone: (01243) 816222 you are well prepared. We also want to assure you (International: +44 1243 816222) of our help and support throughout your time at Email: [email protected] the University, so that you do not have to cope www.chi.ac.uk/about-us/who-we-are/ with any problems on your own. professional-services/support-and- information-zone
Feedback? Student Support & Wellbeing International Student Advisory Service - We appreciate your suggestions to help us improve Päivi Leivo and Jane Smith this pre-arrival handbook. If you would like to Bognor Regis Campus (address see above) make any comments, please e-mail us. Tel: +44 1243 812146) Email: [email protected] University of Chichester www.chi.ac.uk/international- www.chi.ac.uk students/international-student-support
www.chi.ac.uk/international Admissions Chichester Bishop Otter Campus Email: [email protected] University of Chichester, Bishop Otter Campus, Applicant information portal College Lane, Chichester, West Sussex PO19 6PE UK Accommodation Office Bishop Otter Campus (address see above) Bognor Regis Campus Tel: +44 1243 816069) University of Chichester, Bognor Regis Campus, www.chi.ac.uk/student-life/accommodation Upper Bognor Road, Bognor Regis, West Sussex PO21 1HR UK UK Emergency telephone number: 999 (Police, Ambulance and Fire Brigade)
Acknowledgements: the University is grateful to University of Chichester Emergency UKCISA for their advice and information. This telephone number: 01243 816363 handbook is intended for personal use. The information is given in good faith and has been carefully checked. However, the University of Chichester accepts no legal responsibility for its accuracy. It is meant for guidance only and cannot cover every eventuality. For individual queries please contact the International Student Advisory Service.
60 #CHIUNI +44 (0)1243 812146 | [email protected] | chi.ac.uk/international 61 Checklist to help you prepare 3
Checklist before leaving home Checklist for your journey Checklist for your arrival
Enough money for course fees and living Make sure you carry in your hand luggage: Contact your family and friends at home, Register with a local GP (doctor). expenses. so they know you have arrived safely. A valid passport (with a visa if required). Open a UK bank account. Request a A current passport that is not due to expire If you do not know where to go, look for letter from the International Student (be out of date) while you are away. Your travel documents. Support and Information Zone (SIZ) in the Advisers to help you with this. Learning Resource Centre (LRC) and ask A Visa for the UK, if necessary An acceptance letter from the University. for advice. Check your University email and Moodle (VLE) pages regularly – this is where you Health and/or travel insurance Proof of financial means (if required). Arrive at least one day before your will find information about your course, orientation/induction programme is due classes, appointments, lecture notes etc. Somewhere to live in the UK. Make sure you Insurance Documents (travel, possessions to take place. If you are not sure of the Check our help pages for more know how and when to get here (contact the and/or health insurance). correct date of your programme, please information. Accommodation Office if you need help). contact us. Details of where you will be living. Attend the Students’ Union Freshers’ Inform the University of your arrival date Make sure you attend the orientation/ week activities! and flight details. Complete the arrival form: Details of how to travel to Bognor induction programme that has been www.chi.ac.uk/international Regis/Chichester. arranged for you. If you are unable to or email your details to: arrive in time, you need to contact us. [email protected] Your UK address and telephone number. Make sure you also inform the Make sure you attend your registration accommodation team or your host £400-£450 in British currency, Prepaid session and bring your ID, visa (if family/landlord. card, Travellers’ cheques (in Pounds applicable) and your original certificates Sterling) or a credit card. with you to this session. You will need to Travel plans of how to get from the airport to pre-register online before-hand! your accommodation in Bognor Regis or Toothbrush and a change of clothes in Chichester your hand luggage (in case your bags go Tier 4 students: Collect your Biometric missing). Residence Permit (BRP) within 10 days of arrival. We organise a trip to Portsmouth A list of what you are carrying in your as part of the orientation event(s) to help main luggage (in case your bags go missing you collect your BRP. and you have to make an insurance claim). Tier 4 students: Contact the International Any prescription drugs or medicine you Student Advisers regarding your Police are taking. Registration appointment if you need to register.
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