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Welcome to

2010
Coventry University

www.coventry.ac.uk/international
Contents

Welcome 02

Arriving at Coventry University 03


Before you travel – obtaining ‘entry clearance’ 03
Applying for entry clearance 04
Health checks before your arrival in the UK 06

Travelling to the UK 09
When should I arrive? 09
How do I get to the UK? 11
How to get to Coventry 12

Money Matters 13
Cost of Living 13
Opening a UK bank account 14
Transferring money 14
Insurance 16

Living in the UK 17
Map 17
Coping with culture shock 18
Visit a UK family with HOST 19
Accommodation 21
Health 23
Police Registration 24
Working in the UK 25

Support to International Students 27


International Welcome Week 31

International Induction 33
Enrolment 34
02

Welcome

As an international or EU student Coming to the UK as a student can open up a whole new


world, full of unique opportunities, memorable moments and
planning to begin your studies at life-changing experiences. It can also be a challenge trying to
Coventry you have most probably already understand how the UK education system works, learning how
been in contact with the International British people interact and communicate with each other, and
adapting to life in the UK whilst away from family, friends and
Office: maybe you have met one of our
familiar surroundings.
International Officers at an exhibition,
been in contact with our admissions The International team is made up of multi-lingual staff, many of
team about your application, or spoken whom have experience of living and studying abroad. Based in
the purpose built Student Centre, our job is to make sure that
to our welfare team for visa advice your time in Coventry is as problem free as possible. It is our
to get you to the UK. This is just the intention to support you throughout your time here - we’ll be there
beginning of our relationship with you. from picking you up at the airport, right through to graduation!

On behalf of my team I look forward to welcoming you


to Coventry!

Rob Atkinson
Director of International Development

International Student Welfare Team


Left to right: James Moran, Hazel English, Michelle Allden
Laura Wright, Kavita Cassidy.

www.coventry.ac.uk/international
03

Arriving at Coventry University

This section will help you arrange your Before you travel –
travel to the UK, whether this is just a obtaining ‘entry clearance’
case of arranging a flight or applying
for a student visa, we hope that this Visa nationals:
information will help. All non EEA nationals must apply for entry clearance before
travelling to the UK if coming for a course lasting more than 6
months. You can find more information at:
www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/studyingintheuk/adult-students

EEA, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and


Swiss nationals:
You do not need entry clearance to enter the UK to study. There
If you feel confused about anything may be a brief passport/ID check when you arrive in the UK for
security purposes.
you read in this document or are
unsure of your next steps remember Nationals of Bulgaria, Romania, Cyprus, Czech
we are here to help. You can always Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania,
Malta, Poland, Slovenia and Slovak Republic:
contact one of our International
As your country is part of the European Union you no longer need
Student Advisers at:
to apply for entry clearance to come to the UK to study. However,
you may have to register as a worker if you have a job while you
welfare.io@coventry.ac.uk are studying.
04

Applying for entry clearance Your finances:


The UKBA has specified the amount of money that you will need
If you do need a visa we understand that this can be an to show before they grant you the 10 points for this section:
intimidating prospect. Just remember that we are always here to
help with any queries that you may have about the process. We Length of course Funds needed
want to make sure that your application is successful so please
do not hesitate to contact us about your application. 9 months or less Course fees AND £600 for
each month of the course
You can apply for your visa within 3 months of your More than 9 months First year of course fees AND
intended course start date. However, you should make £5,400 to cover 9 months in
the UK
sure that you meet all of the requirements in advance to
prevent any problems arising. You should contact your
nearest British Embassy, Consulate or High Commission The UKBA will ask to see proof of the above in the
to find out how early you can submit your application, or form of bank statements, a letter from your bank or
check the UK visas website www.ukvisas.gov.uk a passbook showing amounts held on your bank
account. This account must be in your name or your
To be granted leave to enter the UK as a full time student, you parents/legal guardian’s name and funds must have
must pass a points based assessment and score 40 points to been in your account for 28 days. If using your parents/
be issued with a visa. The points are broken down legal guardians account, you need to show evidence
like this: that you are related to them and that you have
permission to use their money, e.g an original birth
• 30 points for Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) certificate
from Coventry University, which includes a valid CAS reference
number. The statement or letter should be dated no more than 28 days
• 10 points for showing that you have enough money to cover before the date of application. If you have already been studying in
the cost of your course, and your monthly living expenses in the UK on a course of more than 6 months and this course ended
the UK for up to 12 months. no more than 4 months ago you have an established presence
for studying in the UK and are only required to show £600 for 2
Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies months, totalling £1200.

(CAS)
Coventry University hold a licence that allows us to sponsor
people who want to come to the UK to study. We will issue a CAS Calculating Overseas Money:
statement with a CAS number to confirm we are sponsoring you
If you are using overseas currency, you will
to study in the UK. The CAS number provided must be used in
be expected to show (write on the document)
your visa application.
the closing balance in pounds sterling. The
How do you obtain a CAS? UKBA use the official exchange rate on the
Once you have met all of the conditions of your offer including
OANDA website, which can be found at
deposit/proof of financial sponsorship, we will confirm our Tier www.oanda.com/currency/converter
4 visa sponsorship to the UKBA through an online system. You
will then be given a CAS reference. We will issue you with a CAS
statement confirming your CAS reference so that you can use this
to make your student visa application.

NB - Obtaining a CAS is no guarentee that you will be granted a


visa, this is just one element of the procedure.

www.coventry.ac.uk/international
05

The letter must confirm if the parent(s) or legal guardian has


Visa application document checklist: custody or sole responsibility for the child. If they have sole
custody they must sign the letter. If they do not, the letter must
Here is a full list of documents that you
confirm that each parent or legal guardian agrees to the contents
will need to provide when you make your
of the letter and must be signed by each parent or legal guardian.
application at the High Commission or
Embassy in your home country:

 Passport Other types of visas


 CAS statement from Coventry University Prospective student visa:
 Proof of finances If you have not yet decided whether to accept your offer of
 Documents assessed by Coventry University studies, or need to attend an interview before your offer is made
when issuing your CAS (Academic and English unconditional, you can apply to come to the UK on a prospective
qualifications) student visa. This visa will be issued for a maximum of 6 months.
If you do decide to accept your offer during this time you can
 Your biometric details; your fingerprints and
change your visa to a full student visa while you are in the UK.
full face photos will be taken at the High
Commission or Embassy
To apply for this visa you will need to make an application to your
 Fee for application nearest British High Commission or Embassy. You can get more
information from the UK visas website: www.ukvisas.gov.uk

If you do obtain a prospective student visa please do


not hesitate to contact us so that we can meet with you
Additional documents required for under 18 when you are in the UK to discuss the courses we have
year olds: Letter of parental consent available and give you a tour of our University
and accommodation.
A 16 and 17 year old student has the legal right to live
independently in the United Kingdom, and so may make their own Student visitor visa:
arrangements for accommodation. However, he/she requires the If you are coming to the UK to study a course for less than 6
consent of his/her parent(s)/legal guardian to do this and to travel months and do not need to work whilst in the UK you should
to the United Kingdom (if they are applying from overseas). apply for this visa. This visa cannot be extended and you must
leave the UK when this visa expires. It is unlikely that this is
Students who are 16 or 17 years old and living independently the correct visa for you if you are going to apply to study an
must provide: undergraduate or postgraduate course in the UK.

A letter from their parent(s) or legal guardian, confirming:


1. the relationship between the parent(s) or legal guardian and
the child;
2. that the parent(s) or legal guardian have given their consent
to the application;
3. that the parent(s) or legal guardian have given their consent
to the child student living independently in the United Kingdom;
4. that the parent(s) or legal guardian have given their consent
to the child student’s independent travel to the United Kingdom.
06

Health checks before your Other Immunisations:

arrival in the UK The Department of Health has recommended vaccination


against Meningitis C following outbreaks of the strain in university
students in the UK. This has resulted in a dramatic reduction
As a part of your visa application you may be asked to take part in
of the disease. The best time to have this vaccination is before
a medical examination. As such it may be wise to be aware of the
coming to university to allow enough time for immunity to
following information:
develop. You should approach your doctor at least two weeks,
ideally one month, before you are due to arrive. It is important
Tuberculosis: to note that this vaccination does not provide protection against
If you are coming to study in the UK for more than 6 months other strains of Meningitis. If you choose to have the vaccination
and you are from a country where there is a high incident of TB you should bring your vaccination certificate or card with you.
infection, and you have not had a vaccination, you should have a If you are unable to have this done before you arrive you will be
medical health check prior to entering the UK. You should bring a able to obtain the vaccination here, when you have registered
doctor’s letter, and if required, a recent chest x-ray with you when with a doctor. Any questions you have about the vaccine are best
you travel. discussed with your family doctor.

Embassies in: Usually by the time UK students have reached the age of
• Bangladesh 16 they will also have completed their immunisation against
• Ghana (which also takes applications from Burkina Faso, diphtheria, pertussis (whooping cough), tetanus, polio, measles,
Cote d’Ivoire, Togo and Niger). mumps, rubella and tuberculosis. It is best that you check your
• Kenya (which also takes applications from residents of immunisation status against these diseases before arrival.
Eritrea, Somalia, Democratic Republic of the Congo,
Rwanda, Uganda (visitor applications) and Tanzania)
• Pakistan
• Sudan, and
• Thailand (which also takes applications from Cambodia and
Laos).
are already screening applicants who are coming to the UK for
more than 6 months. If you are tested and are free from TB you
will be issued with a visa confirming the same.

If you have any medical notes that your doctor


considers relevant e.g. cervical screening,
relevant past or family history, you may want to
bring these with you to give to your new doctor.
This will be confidential between you and
your doctor.

www.coventry.ac.uk/international
07

Successful visa applications You should ensure that you are given the correct entry clearance
as a ‘student’. If you are bringing family with you they should be
given clearance as ‘dependants’.
Congratulations! If your application has been successful
you will be a given a certificate stamped in your passport giving
You should also ensure that you are given the correct length of
you permission to enter and stay in the UK. This will include
stay according to the immigration rules:
the type of stay granted (ie ‘student’), the length of stay, and
any restrictions. It should include the wording ‘Work (and any
1. If your course is 12 months or more you should be granted
changes) must be authorised’ this gives you permission to work
12 months + 4 months on your visa.
subject to the restrictions applicable for students (see section on
2. If your course is less than 12 months but more than 6
Working in the UK on Page 25).
months you should be granted 12 months + 2 months on
your visa
3. If your course is less than 6 months but a preparatory course
If you have an offer to study at the University for further study you should be granted 6 months + 1 month
and have successfully obtained your visa on your visa.
congratulations! If you complete your 4. If your course is less than 6 months and is not in preparation
undergraduate or postgraduate degree in any for further study you should be granted 6 months + 7 days
subject in the UK you will be entitled to apply on your visa.

for a 2 year ‘Post Study Work’ visa.


This will give you a great start to your career.
For more information see page 26.
08

Unsuccessful visa applications Families


Do not travel to the UK if you have been refused It is important to plan well ahead if you are bringing your
entry clearance, as you will almost certainly not be family with you to the UK. You need to make sure that you
allowed to enter. have organised:

Unfortunately after the launch of Tier 4 in April 2009 there are • Dependant visa’s for your family members
no longer appeal rights against the refusal of a student visa. Any • Accommodation for you and your family
appeal rights have been replaced by a right to ‘administrative • Nursery/school places for your children
review’, which means that your case will be looked at by another
Entry Clearance Officer. It is unlikely that any decision will be If you would like any advice or information about these issues
overturned, unless the entry clearance officer has made an please contact an International Student Adviser by email on
obvious error. welfare.io@coventry.ac.uk

If you are refused and you have a CAS issued


from us, the refusal is likely to be based on your
available funds. We strongly advise that if you
decide to apply for another visa that you assess
your available funds, and ensure you have
enough, to meet the requirements of the UKBA
as set out in the table on page 4.

In the unlikely event your application is refused, please scan or fax


a copy of your written refusal notice with the reasons you think the
decision was wrong, to the International Office for the attention of
the International Student Adviser:

Email: welfare.io@coventry.ac.uk
Fax: +44 (0)24 7615 2175

Please ensure you have included your full name, course, applicant
number and contact details (email is preferable) so that we can
respond to you as soon as possible.

Getting further help:


If you feel you need further assistance you could approach:

• A lawyer in your home country with specific knowledge of the


UK immigration system
• The British Council in your home country:
www.britishcouncil.org
• Your representative/agent
• A solicitor in the UK by looking at the Law Society website:
www.lawsociety.org.uk/home.law, go to ‘Choosing
a solicitor’

www.coventry.ac.uk/international
09

Travelling to the UK

When should I arrive?


When you know that you have a student visa to study at Coventry
University you need to make your travel arrangements as soon
as possible. Please aim to arrive in the UK before 1200 hours.
Glasgow Edinburgh
This will give you time to travel to Coventry, meet us and settle in M74
A1
before the University offices close at 1700 hours.

If you have no choice and have to arrive in Coventry after 1700


M6
hours we advise that you organise a stay overnight at a hotel or
guest house in Coventry. However if you have not had a chance
Leeds
to do this or your arrival to the UK has been delayed please do
Manchester
not worry we are here to help. You can contact university staff
M1
after 1700 hours on: 024 7688 7688. M6

Birmingham M6

M42
Coventry
Cambridge
M5 M1
M40
Oxford

Bristol
London

Key

Motorway junctions

Ringroad junctions
Motorways
Other roads
Rail links
10

Students starting in September Students starting at other times of the year:


International Welcome Week For students who start their courses in January or February 2011,
Monday 20th September – Friday 24th September you should arrive at the date given in your offer letter so that you
can complete the Orientation and Induction programme.
If you are a new student starting your course in September you
are invited to arrive by Saturday 18th September 2010 to attend Certain courses begin at other times of the year. If this applies to
International Welcome Week which takes place from the 20th – you, please ensure that you apply for University accommodation
24th September 2010. We hope you can attend as it will be a great as soon as you receive your University offer letter. If you are
opportunity for you to meet with fellow students, learn more about successful in obtaining University accommodation, you should
the University campus and the city and settle in before term starts. report to Accommodation Services at Singer Hall.

We strongly recommend students starting Masters programmes in


Late Arrival:
the Faculty of Health and Life Sciences book a place on Welcome
If you are delayed and will arrive after your expected start date,
Week as these courses have an earlier induction date of Tuesday
please contact us as soon as you can:
21st September.

Welfare Team: welfare.io@coventry.ac.uk


We advise that you book University accommodation for
South East Asia Team: seasia.io@coventry.ac.uk
International Welcome Week so that you are staying with all the
Europe Team: europeanapplications.io@coventry.ac.uk
other new students. We will be able to assist you in getting from
Rest of the World Team: row.io@coventry.ac.uk
your UK arrival airport to Coventry if you arrive on this day.
East Asia Team: eastasia.io@coventry.ac.uk
South Asia Team: southasia.io@coventry.ac.uk
If you intend to arrive before the 18th September we
Africa/Middle East Team: africameast.io@coventry.ac.uk
strongly recommend that you organise to stay in a hotel
or guest house for the nights prior to the 18th.
If you have an offer of University accommodation and have paid
your £300 deposit, you must inform the Student Accommodation
Your induction programme will be incorporated with your faculty’s
Office that you will be late and ask them to reserve a room for
induction programme. More details can be found on page 33.
you (accomm.ss@coventry.ac.uk). Or let the International Office
know so that we can contact Student Accommodation on
Students starting on Monday 27th September
your behalf.
If you are unable to attend Welcome Week you must arrive in time
for Induction Week starting 27th September 2010 as this is when
you will complete your enrolment formalities and officially join the Airport Pick Ups:
University. You will receive details of where you are to report to on We will be operating an airport pick up service
Monday 27th September at the end of August.
to Coventry from Heathrow or Birmingham
International Airport on Saturday 18th
If you have booked University accommodation, you can move into
your room on either Saturday 25th or Sunday 26th September. September and Sunday 19th for students
Your room information pack will tell you where to collect your key, attending Welcome Week. To book your place
but when you arrive there will be staff to help you find your way to visit the Coventry University website, go to the
your room. online store and select International Students.

If you need any assistance in the meantime the contact details for Pre-Sessional English
Accommodation and Residences are: Language Students:
Students arriving to attend Pre-Sessional English
Student Accommodation
Language courses will be contacted directly with
Singer Hall
arrival, induction and enrolment details.
Canterbury Street Tel: +44 (0)24 7688 7304
Coventry Fax: +44 (0)24 7688 7361
CV1 5NR Email: accomm.ss@coventry.ac.uk
www.coventry.ac.uk/international
11

How do I get to the UK? When you arrive at the airport you will go through certain
procedures before you can leave and travel to Coventry. You
should follow these instructions carefully (it might be useful for you
If you are going to fly to the UK you can choose one of London’s
to have a copy of this document when you arrive in the UK):
international airports, Heathrow or Gatwick. Alternatively you can
fly to Birmingham International airport, which is a 15-minute train
journey from Coventry. 1

The best airport to choose would be Birmingham


Airport. This is because it is close to Coventry and will Have your passport, entry clearance document (if required) and
any necessary visa/health documents ready for inspection by an
take less time and cost less to get to us! Most major
Immigration Officer.
airlines now fly to Birmingham – why not ask at the
travel agency or check online for flights to Birmingham.
2

There will be two queues to go through passport control,


If the Immigration Officer refuses you entry, one for EU passport holders, one for all others.
you may be removed immediately or given a
very short period of temporary admission. If this 3
happens you can telephone the International
Student Adviser in the International Office
on +44 (0)24 7615 2152. If they are not If you are from a country outside the EU, when you have shown
available telephone +44 (0)24 7688 7688. your passport you will be asked to show proof that you have
been offered a place at Coventry University.
Show them your offer letter.

If you are unsure about what you can or cannot bring into the
4
UK, you should check with your local British Embassy or High
Commission before you begin your journey or the UK Customs &
After passport control you can collect your luggage.
Excise website (www.hmce.gov.uk - select ‘Travel Information’ The luggage will be unloaded onto several carousel systems;
and then ‘Banned and Restricted Goods’). Please note that it is wait at the carousel that displays your flight number
illegal to bring drugs (other than those prescribed by a doctor) and departure airport.
or animals into the country. The penalties for attempting to do
so are very severe. 5

When you have retrieved your luggage you must pass through
customs. If you are from a country outside the EU you will
either have to pass through the green channel (nothing to
declare) or the red channel (goods to declare). If you are from
the EU you will pass through the blue channel as you do not
have to declare anything. The Customs Officer may ask you
to open your luggage for checking. In this situation cooperate
with the Customs Officer.
12

How to get to Coventry

Arrival Airport: Travel to Coventry by: Cost: Time to Coventry: Further details:

Birmingham Airport. Local Bus service – £1.70 1 hour www.travelwm.co.uk


The closest well served airport ‘Number 900’
to Coventry. We strongly
recommend arrival at this airport.

Train from ‘Birmingham £1.90 20 minutes on www.nationalrail.co.uk


International’ station express service To get to the train station from the
main airport terminal you should use
‘skytrain’. Ask for directions from the
information desk or student helpers
there during Welcome Week.

Taxi £20-30 20 minutes approx We do not recommend taking a


taxi unless you arrive at an
unsociable hour.

Heathrow Airport. ‘National Express’ £29.30 2.5 hours www.nationalexpress.com


coach service.

Train From £50.00 2.5 hours www.nationalrail.co.uk

Gatwick Airport. ‘National Express’ £34 3.75 hours www.nationalexpress.com


coach service.

Coventry Train station. Taxi £5-8 5 minutes

Via Central London:


We do not recommend that you try and get to Coventry via
central London especially if you have a large amount of luggage.
You will have plenty of opportunities later to visit the capital,
without your luggage.

Coventry is well-served by public transport


therefore we do not recommend that you
use a taxi to get to Coventry from Heathrow
or Gatwick as this will cost about £250 from
Heathrow airport and about £350 from
Gatwick airport.

www.coventry.ac.uk/international
13

Money Matters

As well as booking your Cost of Living


accommodation, you will also need
Below is an approximate guide to the minimum amount you
to arrange your finances before you
should expect for living expenses in the UK.
arrive at University. It is vital that you
have sufficient funding in place before For your stay in the UK you will need approximately £600 per
commencing a course of study, this month to cover these costs but remember that this is only a
guide. These costs are for one person only and students with
will need to cover your tuition fees,
children and dependants should keep this in mind when working
accommodation, books, stationary, out a budget.
food and of course social costs. You will
find lots of helpful advice and important
Accommodation in halls Take a look at your Student
information in this section so please read of residence Accommodation Brochure for
more details.
it carefully.
Private accommodation £200-£300 per month

Bills (Electric/Gas/Water) £30-£50 per month


Preventing Hardship:
You should not travel to the UK or begin a Food/Housekeeping £150-£200 per month
course without making sure that you have (if not included)

enough money to cover all your academic TV Licence £142.50 per year
fees and living expenses. It is very difficult to (mandatory with TV)

make arrangements for financial support after Mobile/Landline phone £30 per month
you have left your own country. You should
not rely on a part-time job in the UK to pay Clothes/Shoes £31 per month
for your tuition fees.
Leisure/Sport £21 per month

Books/Stationery £21 per month

Socialising £103 per month

Travel/Transport £195.00 for 3 terms


‘Coventry Student £78.00 per term
Faresaver Travelcard’ £38.00 summer special

Childcare £500 per month


14

Opening a UK Bank Account Transferring Money


Whilst in the UK you will need to have a bank account to ensure If you are travelling from outside the EU you will need to declare
that your money is kept safely and so that you can transfer money any sums of money of 10,000 Euros (or equivalent) or more to
in and out, write cheques, pay bills by standing order or direct HM customs. If your country restricts the amount of money you
debit and use a cash card to buy goods or take money out from can bring out, then you will need to begin the arrangements for
an ATM (Automated Teller Machine). transferring money several months before your course begins.

Most major banks have branches in Coventry, many of


them are located on the High Street in the city centre,
just a short walk from Campus. Please note that British banks will usually make
a handling charge (allow up to £20) for receiving
Here are some steps you can take to make opening a bank
incoming money from overseas, so the amount
account in the UK easier:
you receive may not be the same as the amount

• Before you leave home, find out if your bank has links with that was sent. Also, you should allow at least
banks in the UK or open an account with a bank that has five working days for money sent from outside
branches or links in the UK. If your bank has links in the UK the UK to be received at the University.
you may be able to use your home account in the UK rather
than having to open a brand new account.
• Make sure that you have evidence of your full overseas
address with you in the form of official letters or bank If money has to be received at the University on or before a
statements (PO Box addresses are not acceptable). Also certain date in order to qualify for a discount, check how long
ensure that you have full proof of your identity, your passport it will take to arrive to ensure that we will receive it on time. We
or national ID card should be sufficient. You will also need cannot extend deadlines for discounts under any circumstances.
proof that you have been accepted to study at Coventry In addition, eligibility for a discount depends on the full sum being
University, so don’t forget your acceptance letter! received at the University so please take bank charges
• Start the process of opening an account as soon as you arrive into account.
because it can take up to four weeks for your account to be
opened fully. You can transfer money direct to the University’s bank account
• Remember Visa and Mastercards are widely acceptable in the for tuition fees, accommodation, and the Pre-sessional
UK and can be used to withdraw cash from ATMs, you can English course.
check with your bank whether you can use these cards in the
UK before you leave home.

For further information about opening a bank account The Any transfer of money to the University
British Bankers Association (BBA) has produced a leaflet called MUST be accompanied by full details of who
‘International students: Opening a UK bank account.’ Which
the money is for (name, application reference
can be found by clicking on ‘publications’ then ‘leaflets’ on their
number, course and year), and what it is
website www.bba.org.uk
intended to pay for. Details to:
tuition.io@coventry.ac.uk

www.coventry.ac.uk/international
15

Bank transfers can be sent direct from your bank to Coventry


University’s bank account, details are as follows:

Coventry University
NATWEST
24 Broadgate
Coventry CV1 1ZZ
United Kingdom

Account Number: 30688159


Sort Code: 56-00-45
Swift code: NWBKGB2L
IBAN No: GB35NWBK56004530688159

To make a payment by electronic transfer:


1) At your own bank, provide details of the account number and
address given above.
2) In ‘Bank to Bank information’ section, nominate the currency;
should be sterling.
3) In ‘Payment details’ section, give your name, application
number and what the money is for. This information will be
sent to the University.
4) You may be charged for this transaction by your bank.
You will also be charged by the UK bank.

If paying for your accommodation, tuition


and living expenses in the UK by bankers
draft, please ensure you have one draft for
accommodation and tuition made payable to
‘Coventry University’ and one draft for living
expenses made payable to yourself to deposit
in your own account in the UK after arrival. Do
not bring one draft made payable to yourself for
all above the expenses as you will not be able
to cash it in the University and will therefore not
be able to enrol here.

For further information contact:


Finance Office
Email: tuition.io@coventry.ac.uk
Tel: +44 2476 152255
Fax: +44 2476 152276
16

Insurance
Bringing Money to the UK We strongly advise you to insure your personal belongings against
damage or loss, particularly electronic equipment. You will be able
EU cash declaration rules:
to obtain further advice from the Students’ Union Advice Centre
A person entering an EU country (from a non-EU when you get here.
country) with over 10,000 Euros (or equivalent) will need
to declare this to HM Customs upon arrival. These new
declaration rules not only cover cash but will also apply
to those carrying bankers’ drafts and cheques.
Please remember: It may take up to four
You should not encounter any problems as long as you weeks before you can fully use your bank
can justify the need to carry this much cash, you can account, so it’s best to ensure that you
explain that your funds are for university payments with have enough money for your personal
proof such as your offer letter available. We recommend needs for the first few weeks of term.
that because of these new rules you would be advised
to carry a bankers draft or cheque rather than cash
upon entry to the UK.

www.coventry.ac.uk/international
17

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18

Culture Shock

Coping with Culture Shock:


Coming to study in a different country with a different
education system is a big challenge. At times this
can be both exciting and difficult, but hopefully it will
ultimately be a rewarding experience. Our culture is
our way of understanding our world. It is informed by
our religion, food we eat, family, political and economic
background, gender and many other factors. When we
step outside the world that we are used to, it can make
us uncomfortable and tired – we call this culture shock.

Signs of Culture Shock:


• feeling upset and emotional
• feeling angry
• finding it hard to concentrate

Do not worry if you think you are experiencing culture


shock. The International Student Advisers can help.
Tell them how you are feeling. To help yourself, stay in
touch with family and friends and try to get involved
in University life, for example join a society or club or
attend a social programme trip or event.

Many international students experience


culture shock when they first move to the UK
and this is completely normal. In order to help
you adapt to living in the UK it is useful to have
an understanding of UK culture and your own
cultural identity.

www.coventry.ac.uk/international
19

Visit a UK family with HOST: To learn more about HOST and read accounts of HOST visits
from other students please visit www.hostuk.org
HOST is an organisation which
puts international students in
In addition, you can attend our HOST social event (details of
contact with British families.
which are to be confirmed) when a HOST representative will come
With HOST you may spend
to talk about the scheme and answer your questions.
a weekend, or longer, as the
guest in a British home. The
main purpose of HOST is to
encourage friendship between different cultures by enabling
international students to experience life in Britain from a different
perspective. The families who participate in HOST are volunteers
who are interested in meeting students from different
cultural backgrounds.
More about living in the UK –
websites and further reading:
For further information about living in the UK and British
culture, please refer to the following websites:
www.ukcisa.org.uk
www.educationuk.org
www.ukstudentlife.com
www.visitcoventry.co.uk
www.visitbritain.com
www.enjoyengland.com

The following books are also very useful on UK culture


and life:
Lonely Planet: Great Britain
David Else et al. (2007)
Lonely Planet Publications

The Rough Guide to Britain 7


Robert Andrews et al. (2008)
Rough Guides Ltd

Watching the English: The Hidden Rules of


English Behaviour
Kate Fox (2008)
Hodder and Stoughton

The English: A Portrait of a People


Jeremy Paxman (2001)
Penguin Books

Notes from a Small Island


Bill Bryson (1997)
Black Swan
21

University Accommodation Thefuturelets:

There is a wide variety of student accommodation in Coventry


with choice of University owned and managed halls and houses,
private halls, houses and flats.

Living in University accommodation is a great way to meet new ‘Thefuturelets’ is the University’s very own lettings agency which
friends and gain a new-found independence. For most of our is responsible for placing students into private accommodation.
students this will be their first time away from home, and we will They have a variety of properties to suit everyone’s needs and
do our utmost to ensure that the move is as easy as possible. you can secure a property through them prior to your arrival if you
Our friendly student accommodation team at Coventry University wish. Visit www.thefuturelets.org.uk to view properties on-line.
is here to help to find the right ‘new home’ for you. Visit Alternatively you can contact the team to arrange viewings of
www.coventry.ac.uk/accommodation and look through the properties within the first few days of your arrival. You only have to
accommodation choices available and details on how to apply. pay an administration charge of £58.75 when they place you into
accommodation.

Please remember: If you have signed a To find out more please contact:
University accommodation contract or agreed Tel: +44 (0)24 7679 5273
to the terms and conditions on-line email: lettings@thefuturelets.org.uk
you cannot opt out of this contract.
If you decide to leave your University
accommodation you will still be bound by the
Private Accommodation
contract unless you find someone else who
If you are not staying in University accommodation and you
will agree to take your room.
choose to rent accommodation from the private sector, it can
seem quite daunting when you have just arrived in the UK. We
hope that we can give you some guidance before you arrive so
You will need to submit an on-line application form to apply for
you know what to do when you get here.
University accommodation. You will need to have been offered
an unconditional or conditional place of study and have made
In order to be able to find private accommodation before term
Coventry your first choice. To be able to apply online you will need
starts, you should aim to arrive in Coventry 1-2 weeks before
the student ID number that is shown on your academic offer letter.
term. You can even start searching for accommodation on the
Student Accommodation will not process your accommodation
internet before you arrive in Coventry or contact ‘thefuturelets’,
application until all the conditions of the academic offer have
been met and you have successfully obtained a relevant VISA but we would not recommend that you book any accommodation
to study in the UK. When you have obtained your VISA you before you have had a chance to see it.
MUST scan and email it to accom-visa.ss@coventry.ac.uk or
fax a copy to +44 (0) 24 7688 7311 so your accommodation
Pre-Sessional English Language
application can be processed. Once you have been offered
Students:
accommodation you will have 3 days to accept the offer and pay
For students taking Pre-Sessional English Language
the required £300 Advance Licence Fee.
courses prior to their degree programme we are
able to offer a limited choice of short term University
If you do not have access to the Internet please contact
accommodation to cover the length of your English course.
Student Accommodation: You need to submit an on-line application form to apply for
Tel: +44 (0)24 7688 7304 accommodation for the 12, 8 and 4 week courses. To be
Email: accomm.ss@coventry.ac.uk able to apply on-line you will need the student ID number
shown in your academic offer letter.
22

You may choose to rent a room in a house with other students, or


rent a small flat with one bedroom. There are also options to lodge Think very carefully before you give a
within a family home or rent a bedsit (a single room with sleeping, landlord or an agent any money!
living and cooking facilities). The price of the accommodation that
you choose depends on the size and location of the property.
If you have decided to rent in the private sector it is best to
ensure that you get a chance to look around properties that
If you do not have University accommodation,
you are interested in before you sign any tenancy agreement.
please ensure that you arrive in plenty of time
We recommend that you take a look at a few properties before
to find somewhere to live in the private sector.
you choose.
You will need to book a room in a hotel or
guest house whilst you are looking.
Coventry City Council operates a Landlord Accreditation Scheme.
This is to ensure that properties meet a standard set by Coventry
Here is a checklist of points to remember when renting out City Council. We recommend that you chose to rent a property
private accommodation: that adheres to this scheme. For more information about the
Landlord Accreditation scheme call +44 (0)24 7683 1812.
• Ensure you have documents ready.
• Landlords often require references or guarantors, often these We highly recommend that you take a look at
will have to be UK residents. 3 months bank statements are ‘Saferstudents’ guidelines. They provide a ‘Housing
also often required. Bank details to set up a direct debit for security checklist’ at:
rent payment. www.safer-students.co.uk
• Make sure you have enough money to cover the deposit. The
deposit amount is usually one month’s rent, remember that in You can use this to make sure the property that you choose is
addition you will usually be asked to pay for the first month’s safe and secure.
rent, at the same time. So your first payment will be 2 months’
rent altogether. Your deposit will be held to cover the landlord Remember that if you ever have any queries about
against any damage to the property whilst you are resident. private accommodation you can contact either Coventry
Your landlord must protect your deposit by putting it into an University Students Union or the International Office for
authorised tenancy deposit scheme. Make sure you ask your further assistance.
landlord about this. If you are not sure contact the Students’
Union Advice Centre (SUAC).
• Check your tenancy agreement. Make sure you understand
the document before you sign it. If in doubt you can check
the document with an adviser at the Students Union or the
International Office. This is very important because a housing
contract is a legal document. You will be held liable for the rent
even if you decide later that you do not want to live there.
• Check the length of your agreement. Most tenancy
agreements last 6 months. You must check your agreement
to ensure that you do not sign for more than the length of
your course.
• Check your inventory. Often an ‘inventory’ or list of items in the
accommodation is provided. You should make sure that you
inform the landlord if anything on the list is not included when
you arrive. If you do not inform your landlord of missing items
you may be liable to cover the cost of its replacement at the
end of your stay.

www.coventry.ac.uk/international
23

Council Tax Health


Council Tax is a government tax that pays for local services such We know that it can be a very busy time for you when you first
as rubbish collection, police, and the fire brigade. You will not arrive in the UK but don’t forget to look after yourself and your
have to pay Council Tax if you live in an exempt dwelling such as health. Here’s a brief guide that we hope will help:
University Halls of residence or a dwelling that is occupied only by
full-time students. The National Health Service, or NHS as it’s more commonly
known, is the UK state health service. The NHS provides medical
However, if you share a dwelling with non-full-time students, the treatment and services for UK residents. Some services are free
household will be liable for Council Tax. As soon as your course whilst there are others that you will have to pay for.
ends you become liable to pay council tax.
If your course lasts for six months or more you, and your
For further guidance please see the UKCISA guidance note dependants, up to 16 years of age or 19 if in full time education,
‘Council tax and international students’ which can be found at: are entitled to government funded medical treatment on the same
www.ukcisa.org.uk (click on ‘Advice for International Students’ basis as UK residents. This includes free emergency treatment
then ‘Complete List of Information Sheets’ then look under and free consultation with a Doctor. You will pay a subsidised
‘Financial Support’). amount for medical prescriptions (£7.20 in March 2010), dental
treatment and opticians. Dental treatment can be quite expensive
so you should ensure that you are treated as an NHS patient.

EEA nationals:
If you are a European Economic Area national studying in the UK
for less than six months, you and your family should fill out form
E128 in your country of residence, or bring your European Health
insurance card with you to the UK. This form entitles you and your
family to full NHS treatment on the same basis as students who
are studying for more than six months.

Please remember: It is important that you


register with a doctor as soon as you arrive
in the UK. You will have an opportunity to
register at our campus Medical Centre on
your arrival.

The NHS direct website (www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk) is an excellent


resource to locate doctors, dentists, opticians and pharmacists in
the UK. The site also offers a self help guide to suggest what to
do if you do become unwell. The NHS direct helpline (0845 46 47)
offers a 24 hrs health advice line. While in the UK the number for
all emergency services is 999 or 112.
24

Police Registration
You may receive a stamp in your passport requiring you to
To register you will need:
‘Register with the Police within 7 days of arrival’. There is no
police registration office in Coventry. The nearest office is in  Your passport
Birmingham. It is a legal requirement that you register if you are  The fee – £34 cash (March 2010). A one off
told to do so. Failure to register is a criminal offence and could payment (unless you lose your certificate)
lead to prosecution so please be aware that it is a very important
 The appropriate registration form
matter. Any family members who have the requirement to register
(available from the International Office)
stamped in their passport must also personally register with the
police. The International Office can give you directions to enable  Two recent colour passport sized photographs
you to get there yourself.  Proof of UK address

 Proof that you are a student


If there are more than 50 students needing to register with the
(offer or enrolment letter)
Police, the International Office can arrange for West Midlands
Police to come to the campus to register students. Further details
will be given at enrolment.

www.coventry.ac.uk/international
25

Working in the UK Countries who joined the EU May 2004:


Nationals from the following new member states:
Students who needed entry clearance: Poland, Lithuania, Estonia, Latvia, Slovenia,
Slovakia, Hungary and the Czech Republic:
If you had to obtain entry clearance before you arrived in the UK
your visa stamp will include the words ‘work (and any changes) In order to work you need to register with the Home Office under
must be authorised’, this means you can work up to 20 hours the new ‘Worker Registration Scheme’. You can obtain further
per week during term-time and full-time during your vacation details of this scheme from the following link:
period. You can not be self-employed, work as a sports person www.ind.homeoffice.gov.uk/workingintheuk/eea/wrs
or entertainer, or pursue a career by taking a permanent full-time
vacancy. You may take up a ‘sandwich’ (work) placement if it is a For more information on the work rules for international students
requirement of your course. you can find a guidance note called ‘Working in the UK during
your studies’ on the UKCISA website: www.ukcisa.org.uk or the
If you are coming to the UK on a Tier 4 (General) visa to study a Home Office website: www.ind.homeoffice.gov.uk
course below degee level and it is not a Foundation degree, the
maximum you can work during term time is for 10 hours per week. Finding part-time work in the UK:

EEA, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and


Swiss nationals:
You are free to work in the UK without having to request
permission. But please remember that your studies should come
first! Try not to work too many hours so that you can concentrate Coventry University’s ‘thefutureworks’ based at the Students
on your course! Union provides all students with help finding work. For part-time
work you can also find advertisements in local newspapers such
Countries who joined the EU January 2007: as The Coventry Evening Telegraph and The Coventry Citizen and

Nationals of Romania and Bulgaria: at the Job Centre which is close to campus in the city centre.

Yellow Registration Certificate (BR1 Form)


For more information please ask at the International Office
You will need to apply for permission to work in the UK while you
for further advice once you have settled into the city and
are studying. To do this you need to complete a form that must
the University. Visit the website for more information:
be sent to the Home Office. You will then be granted permission
www.thefutureworks.org.uk
to work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time
during the vacation period. You will also be able to take up a work
placement if you are on a sandwich course. To find out more Can my spouse/civil partner work or study?
about how you need to register please go to: If your spouse/Civil partner is here as your dependant they can
www.ind.homeoffice.gov.uk/workingintheuk/eea/ study full-time OR part-time unlike you. They will be subject to the
bulgariaromania same fee assessment rules as you.

Provided you have been given permission to remain in the UK


Please Remember: Although part-time work for at least 12 months your dependant spouse will be allowed to
can assist you with living costs, you cannot work. You should ensure that they do not receive any restrictions
depend on these earnings to pay your tuition (a ‘prohibition’) on employment in their passport stamp.
fees. Furthermore you will not be able to
obtain a student visa by basing your income
on work that you do in the UK.
26

Working after your Studies: The Welfare team at the International Office can give you more
advice about the Post Study Work scheme when you arrive in the
All International graduates are able to apply for 2 years further
UK. You will also have an opportunity to meet with a member of
leave to stay in the UK to work. This scheme is called the
our careers team who can give you more information about how
‘Post-Study Work’ scheme and will benefit you greatly. If you
and where to find work in the UK.
successfully complete your course of study in the UK you will then
have the opportunity to use your skills, gain experience and earn
In the meantime you can find out more about the scheme by
money at a company or organisation in the UK.
going to the Home Office website and finding the Post-Study
Work scheme page under:
This 2 year period is your chance to make an impression at your
www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/workingintheuk/tier1/poststudy
company. Before the end of the 2 years you will be able to ask the
company whether they would like to keep you on under the UK
If you have any queries please contact our International Student
Work Permit scheme.
Advisers at: welfare.io@coventry.ac.uk

www.coventry.ac.uk/international
27

Support to International Students

The International Welfare team, They help international students with:


located in the student centre helps over • UK visas and immigration
100 international students a week. • Police registration
• Advice working in the UK during and after studies
The welfare team is based in the International Office located in • Social programme and trips
the Student Centre, open throughout the year from Monday to • Tuition fees payment plans
Friday. The normal office hours are 9:00am-4:30pm except on • Referral to other support services within the University
Wednesdays when the Centre is open 11:00pm-4:30pm. We • And any other problems that you may have
are devoted solely to international students and have met many
students with problems or questions similar to yours.
International Office social programme:
Throughout your time at Coventry the welfare team is here to The International Office offers a very popular social programme.
help you. Whether you just want to chat, have questions about These activities are a great way to meet new people and a cost
employment regulations, accommodation, immigration, finance effective way to see other parts of the UK.
or travel, we are here to help.
While you are in the UK most of your time will be taken up with
studying, however, it is important not to become isolated in your
bedroom with your books! The aim is to take you to parts of the
country that are of interest or show British culture.

You’ll be able to find out more about these trips when you arrive
through our free “trips” booklet or through the student portal
(an online community for students).
28

Kavita Cassidy
Head of International Student Support Contact us:
“I lead the Welfare Team at the International Email: welfare.io@coventry.ac.uk
Office and have worked in the team since Visit us: We are based in the Student Centre
January 2006. I manage the team to ensure
that we work together to assist international
students before their arrival, during their
studies and after they graduate.
I previously worked as an immigration solicitor. My experience
of working in the welfare team and meeting international
students for the last 3 ½ years, has given me a wealth of
knowledge about what an international student needs to have
an exceptional experience of life in the UK during their time at
Coventry University.”

James Moran
International Student Adviser
“I have a background in immigration law
and joined the welfare team at the end of
September 2009. Within my role I help
international students with any problems
they may have in regard to visas, finance
and many other areas. I studied History and
Chinese Studies at the Universities of Nottingham and Sheffield
and am able to speak a bit of Mandarin Chinese. Since I started
at Coventry I have met many international students from as far
apart as China and Bulgaria and have very much enjoyed the
experience so far!”

Laura Wright
International Student Co-ordinator
“I joined the welfare team as the International
Student Co-ordinator in September 2009,
just in time for the September enrolment.
Since this time I have learnt a lot about
Coventry University and its international
students. My job is very varied, which I
really enjoy. I organise the social programme for our international
students which includes day trips to cities around the UK and
wednesday trips to places which are closer to Coventry. In
the next term we will be visiting Edinburgh, Oxford and Alton
Towers to name just a few. Please see the trips booklet for more
information. I also see students about welfare needs relating to
post-study work applications, visa extensions, general queries
and tier 4 visa compliance. I hope that you make the most of your
time in the UK and I hope to see you on one of the trips!”

www.coventry.ac.uk/international
29

As well as the International Office you will be supported by a Support for international students at the
range of expert services at the University. Below is an outline of Lanchester Library:
just a few of these services and how to contact them:
The Library offers a rolling programme of three sessions to
international students: a library induction, an introduction to the
Careers & Enterprise Service:
library catalogue and an introduction to electronic resources.
The Careers Service has a team of advisers who are available In addition, one-to-one support is available via the relevant
to help all students on a wide range of issues. These issues subject librarian or the librarian with responsibility for international
include: Choosing the right course and understanding the career students. Students arriving to study English before their degree
implications of your choice, understanding the local job market are offered similar support. For more information go to
and strategies for getting a part time job, finding a short term www.coventry.ac.uk/cu/library
or ‘sandwich’ year placement, deciding which careers might
suit you and be available to you and developing an action plan,
understanding the national and international graduate jobs market
and what employers are looking for, developing a high quality CV,
completing application forms and preparing for interviews.

Contact:
Tel: +44 (0)24 7615 2030
Email: careers.ss@coventry.ac.uk
30

The Centre for Academic Writing:


The Centre for Academic Writing (CAW) offers workshops, one-to-
one tutorials, and a range of useful resources to support student
writers. Call in to CAW when you arrive at Coventry, or visit us
virtually at www.coventry.ac.uk/caw. Once at Coventry, you
can also download materials or book a session at CAW via the
student Portal. We promote strategies for enhancing your writing
by offering you new techniques for researching, planning, and
revising your academic texts.

The Counselling Service:


Counselling is an opportunity to work with someone professionally
trained who will help you explore the thoughts, feelings and
behaviours that are causing you difficulties. No matter how small
or big you think the problem is you may share your burden with a
counsellor who will help you move forward. For more information
please go to: www.coventry.ac.uk/counselling

The Spirituality and Faith Centre:


It is a space for social gathering, hospitality and quiet reflection
serviced by a team of chaplains from a variety of chaplains from a
variety of faiths and traditions. For more information please go to:
www.coventry.ac.uk/cu/health/spirituality

Welfare and Disability Support:


Coventry University welcomes students with disabilities. Our
disability office is based in Priory Halls of Residence and has
a team of 12 staff with various specialisms including Mental
Health, Dyslexia and Physical and Sensory Disabilities. For more
information email dissoff.ss@coventry.ac.uk

www.coventry.ac.uk/international
31

International Welcome Week - £160


Orientation Programme, 20th – 24th September 2010
The first few days and weeks in a new place can be an exciting International Welcome Week costs £160 and includes:
period of adjustment. It is important to get yourself off to a good
start. The International Office runs a 5 day residential orientation • Six nights accommodation (Saturday – Thursday nights
inclusive) in Priory Hall
programme called International Welcome Week. This is the best
• Breakfast from Sunday to Friday
way to adjust to your new life at Coventry University. The student • Evening meals from Monday to Thursday
feedback from previous Welcome Week programmes shows • A complimentary bedding pack consisting of a pillow,
that students enjoyed the week immensely and they would single duvet and bed sheet, which you may keep after
recommend it to their friends. Welcome Week
• Enrolment and collection of ID cards
• Day trip to Birmingham
There is a mix of information, social events opportunities for you
• All sports and social events during the week
to get to know other international students, the University and City • All presentations, workshops and tours
before the UK students arrive. For example, you will also be able
to register with the doctor and have an introduction to the library. Places for Welcome Week are limited and they will be allocated on
There will be talks from departments such as the Students’ Union a first-come, first served basis.
and Student Services, to give you an insight into University life
and how to make the most of your time here. Equally as important There is no temporary University accommodation available before
are the numerous social events at which you will be able to meet Saturday 18th September so you should avoid arriving before that
many other new international students. There are events during date. If however, your arrival before that date is unavoidable, then
the day, such as the City Quiz, 5-a-side football competitions you should contact the Coventry Tourist Information Centre on
and day trips. In addition, on each night throughout International Tel: 0044 (0)24 7622 7264/7266. They provide a free service to
Welcome Week there will be activities such as, the Barn Dance, book rooms.
Karaoke and the ever popular International Party.
To book your place you need to visit our website and book online.
All these events are a great way to learn about the University, find
your way around Coventry and make new friends. The new UK Your application must be received by Friday 27th August 2010.
students do not arrive until the following week, so for the duration Any questions, please email welcome.io@coventry.ac.uk
on International Welcome Week you will have exclusive use of all
of Coventry University’s facilities.
32

Airport pick up service from


Heathrow and Birmingham
Coventry University offers airport pick up services from Heathrow
and Birmingham International Airports for international students
on the weekend of Saturday 25th September and Sunday 26th
September. Coaches collect newly arrived students and their
luggage, from the airports and transport them to the University.
Staff and student helpers will be at the Meeting Point to greet
students on arrival – look out for their Coventry University student
ambassador t-shirts and the Coventry University banner.

For details of costs and how to book please visit the Coventry
University website, go to the online store and select international
students.

Please note that for students who are taking part in International
Welcome Week the cost of the airport pick up is included in the
overall Welcome Week cost.

Students starting in September


To reserve a place please fill in your full flight details online. Online
bookings will be available from Summer 2010.

www.coventry.ac.uk/international
33

International Induction

Exact details for the induction period Induction


are still to be confirmed but are likely
to consist of airport pick-ups, social The majority of new students will be arriving over the weekend of
Saturday 25th and Sunday 26th September. Information desks
events, tours of the city and campus will be manned by second and third year students who will be
and information and accommodation easily identifiable by their brightly coloured t-shirts. You will find
talks and fairs. information about the services the University has to offer and
about the local attractions, shops and entertainment on offer in
Coventry.

To help you get your bearings, we will be running campus tours


which last approx 30 minutes. You will need to sign up at one of
the information desks.
Student feedback:

In my view Welcome Week was a key


Pre-Sessional English
moment for starting the term at Coventry
Language Students:
Uni, since it was a great opportunity for me
For students arriving to attend Pre-Sessional
to meet loads of news students who were in
English Language courses you will be
the same situation as me (which is good if you contacted directly with arrival, induction
are looking for housemates). In the same way and enrolment details.
if you do not know anything about life in this
marvellous city or about Coventry University,
it is a very good way to catch up.

Welcome Week will enable the international


students to get familiar not only with the
environment but will also help them to meet
people from different countries & of different
origins. This get-together will boost the morale
of the international students & the feeling of
self- confidence is generated.

[Staff are] Friendly and kind, they keep


smiling…and made people feel warm when
they saw them.
34

If your course does not start on 27th September 2010 your


induction programme will vary. You will be sent details of when
Enrolment
and where you need to report separately.
This year overseas enrolment will be a combination of manual
and online enrolment. Further details will be sent to you by email
A comprehensive Induction is provided for all new students,
nearer the time. It is therefore imperative that you have given
international and UK. It gives you the opportunity to get settled
us an email address and that it is correct and working.
in and familiarise yourself with the campus, your School and
your course before our existing students return and term begins
Please note that at enrolment manual checks by International
properly. If your course starts in September you will attend a
Office staff will be made on your passport, visa, original
week-long programme beginning on Monday 27th September
qualifications and whether 66% or full fees have been paid.
2010. On the first day you will meet your course tutor and be
given a timetable for the week. Make sure you attend all the
activities on your timetable and to get the best out of the week
Please note: It is very important that you
and ensure you receive all of the necessary information. You
pay 66% of your fees before you enrol.
will also be given your Student Diary which will be full of useful
You will not be enrolled until 66% of your
information about the University to help you throughout your
full fee amount has been paid.
time here.

February Orientation and


Induction Programme:
Our induction for January/February 2011 has not yet been
fully planned. However do not worry! You will be sent further
information about your arrival in the UK closer to the time.

www.coventry.ac.uk/international
International Office
Coventry University
Priory Street
Coventry
CV1 5FB, United Kingdom

Telephone: +44 (0) 24 7615 2152


Fax: +44 (0) 24 7615 2175
Website: www.coventry.ac.uk/international

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