International Pre-arrival Guide

Transcription

1 International Pre-arrival Guide June 2011

2 2 Contents Welcome to the University of Bedfordshire 3 3 Welcome to the University 4 Pre-departure checklist 5 Visa information 6 Money and living costs 7 Insurance 8 Accommodation 10 What to pack 10 Travelling to the UK 10 Passport control and going through customs 10 Arriving in the UK 11 Travelling to Luton 11 Travelling to Bedford 12 Orientation week information 13 Airport pick-up information 14 Luton campus orientation schedule 24 Luton campus map 26 Bedford campus orientation schedule 36 Bedford campus map May I take this opportunity to offer you a warm welcome to the University of Bedfordshire. We are one of the most modern universities in the United Kingdom and we have an enviable reputation for attracting students from all over the world to come and live and study with us. With more than 3,000 overseas students from more than 100 different countries, we are proud to be a truly diverse international institution. We understand that it is not always easy to find your way around in a new environment, and living and studying away from home in a foreign culture can be as challenging as it is rewarding. There s no need to worry though, as we have all the support and advice you will need to ensure you settle in quickly and really enjoy your time in Bedfordshire. We are also keen for you to feel comfortable, as well as stimulated, in your new surroundings, and this information booklet has been designed to help you prepare for arrival in the UK and make the most of your University life. Welcome to Bedfordshire I am confident that you will have an enjoyable time here. Professor Ashraf Jawaid Deputy Vice Chancellor If your question is about Contact Telephone or Admissions or visas International Admissions +44 (0) international-admissions@beds.ac.uk Direct debits or advance payments Finance +44 (0) /51/52 finance@beds.ac.uk Accommodation at the Luton campus Accommodation Office +44 (0) info@studentvillagebeds.com Accommodation at the Bedford campus Accommodation Office +44 (0) studentservices.bedford@beds.ac.uk Student support International Student Support team +44 (0) advice.international@beds.ac.uk

3 4 Before you leave home don t forget Your visa 5 Print out and keep our handy pre-departure checklist Make sure you read this guide, as well any communication you may receive from your faculty, very carefully and contact us if you have any questions If you have applied for University accommodation, make sure you have had your place confirmed and remember to bring your contract with you* Check that you have a valid, in-date passport Apply for your student visa for the period of your stay in the UK Take a photocopy of your passport (the personal details page and the visa page)* Book flights, ensure you have received your travel tickets in plenty of time and make sure your family and friends know the flight details so that they can check you have arrived safely Carry a copy of your CAS letter and all five pages of your unconditional offer letter when you travel* Make a list of the contents of your luggage (in case you need to make an insurance claim)* Weigh your baggage to avoid any excess baggage costs Check whether you need a tuberculosis certificate (see p.5, step 4) and carry any vaccination certificates with you* Ensure you have originals and copies of your birth certificate, your marriage certificate (and an authorised translation if it is not in English)* Bring proof of your home address and documents to show you have sufficient funds to support you throughout your study* Carry your travel insurance documents with you* Make sure you have at least one month s supply of any medication you are taking and a letter (in English) from your doctor explaining what they are Bring a short medical history, if possible, as this will help when you register with a doctor in the UK Bring your credit card, if you have one, as this will help with credit checks in the UK Ensure you have your money in the form of traveller s cheques and that you have enough for your first few days and weeks here* Bring your driving licence if you plan to drive during your stay in the UK * It is best to carry these items in your hand luggage Your visa As an international student you will need to obtain permission from the British Embassy and High Commission in your country before you travel to the UK. This process is known as obtaining entry clearance. We advise you to apply to the British Embassy/High Commission three months prior to the start of your studies. Please note that you must not apply for your visa nor use your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) number more than three months in advance of your studies. Your visa will be granted for up to one month before your studies begin. If you have any questions about the kind of visa you need and how to apply for it, please contact your local embassy or the University of Bedfordshire s agent in your country. For more information, check out the UK visas website: The points-based system You will need to obtain 40 points to qualify for a student visa. 30 points = providing a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) number to the UKBA which contains details of your studies with us. We will provide you with a CAS letter, sent by , containing this number 10 points = providing evidence of your finances that show you can cover maintenance costs Visa tips! Check the conditions and length of your visa to make sure they are correct Check that your visa does not say work prohibited If you think there is a mistake on your visa stamp, contact the British Embassy in your country If your visa application is refused, you can apply for an Administrative Review within 28 days of the refusal notice and your application will be looked at by another Entry Clearance Officer Guide to obtaining entry clearance Step 1 Complete the application form VAF9 PBS Migrant and PBS Appendix 8 (General) Student Download it from: Step 2 Make sure you have the CAS number for your course, which you should have received with your CAS letter (sent by ). If you have a conditional offer letter, you will need to meet the conditions before we can send you a CAS letter, and so you will have to wait to apply for entry clearance. Step 3 Provide financial statements to show you have enough money to cover tuition fees and living costs. The statement will need to be for a period of 28 days, and show that the amount needed has been in the account for all of those 28 days. The statement cannot be more than one month old. Please see p.6 for more information about the minimum amount of money you will need for tuition fees and living costs. Step 4 You may need to provide a Health Certificate with your application; check the UK visas website to see if your country is on the screening list: Step 5 You will also need to submit any other documents you used as evidence to get the CAS letter from the University of Bedfordshire. Step 6 If you are coming to study a Master s by research degree, you may need to provide an ATAS clearance certificate (if this is required it will be stated on your CAS letter). Step 7 Submit all of the above to the British Embassy/High Commission. Make sure you include your passport, a recent passport sized photograph and the fee of 99.

4 6 Money and living costs The first few days... 7 Paying your tuition fees Before you travel to the UK it is vital to ensure that you have enough money to cover living expenses and fees. You should not expect that a part-time job will cover these costs. Your unconditional offer letter will outline the total amount you need to pay in tuition fees, and all students are required to pay a minimum of 65% of their tuition fees before or at registration. It may be useful to know that if you pay the total amount before or at registration, you may be eligible to receive a substantial fee discount scholarship of between 500 and 1,500. To find out more about how to pay your fees, visit our website: fees You can pay your fees in cash (in person only), and by bankers draft, debit card, credit card (excluding American Express and Diners Club) or bank transfer. If your fees are to be paid using a parent or guardian s credit or debit card, you will need the cardholder to sign an authorisation form. Bank transfers should be sent directly to the University s bank account: Bank Name HSBC Bank Address 63 George Street, LUTON Bedfordshire, LU1 2AP, UK Sort Code Account Name University of Bedfordshire Account Number IBAN Number GB80MIDL Swift Code MIDLGB22 How much money do I need for living costs? The currency in Britain is the pound sterling ( ) and there are 100 pence (p) in 1. For visa purposes, you will be required to provide documentary evidence that you have sufficient funding for living costs as follows: If your course is less than nine months in duration, you must show you have 600 for each month of your course If you are studying on a course that is nine months or longer, you will need to show evidence that you have funds in your personal bank account to pay your tuition fees. You will also need to show that you have living costs of at least 600 per month for nine months or more, ie a minimum of 5,400. We estimate that 5,400 per year is sufficient if you are undertaking a Bachelor s degree, but if you are studying a Master s degree, around 7,200 is needed. These figures include accommodation, books, clothing, travel, food and bills, but do not include tuition fees. Luton and Bedford are both relatively low cost towns in comparison to London, despite their close proximity to the capital. There s no limit on the amount of money you can bring in to the UK from a non-eu country. However, by European Union law, if you are carrying 10,000 Euros or more (or the equivalent in any other currencies) you will be required to declare the cash to the Customs Officer. It is also wise to check if there are any regulations placed upon the amount of money you can take out of your home country. If you are staying in University accommodation, you should apply for a place and pay your rent well in advance of your arrival in the UK. Check out for more information about your options. If you are not planning on staying in University accommodation, you should bring at least 850 with you to cover your needs in the first couple of days as you secure private accommodation. It is not advisable to carry large amounts of cash. Please consider using traveller s cheques or pre-paid cards instead. Money tips! Check with your bank at home whether your current credit or debit card will allow you to withdraw money from UK cash machines (ATMs) Calling your home country on a mobile phone can be very expensive, so buy an international phone card from a newsagents instead Use your free University account to stay in touch with family and friends rather than running up a big phone bill Take time to look around any potential accommodation and do not sign a contract without having it checked by the Students Union Advice Centre, Accommodation Office or Citizens Advice centre beforehand Consider renting a room from a local family contact the International Support team for more information on homestay accommodation (see page 8 for more details) Travel insurance Before you travel to the UK it is a good idea to take out travel insurance which covers your journey and belongings. You can either do this through your travel agent or an insurance company in your home country. This will give you the peace of mind that, if you have any problems during your journey such as lost or damaged luggage, you can make a claim for compensation and recover some of the costs. If your luggage does get lost or damaged on the journey, please note that it is vital that you report it at the airport before leaving to come to Bedfordshire. We would advise you not to bring expensive items, such as valuable jewellery, with you. However, if for some reason you do need to bring items of high value, it is important that you take out extra insurance to cover the cost. After you arrive in the UK, please feel free to come and speak to one of our dedicated International Student Advisers, who will be able to help you with taking out personal possessions insurance in the UK. For more information or advice, please contact the University s Finance Office: Tel: +44 (0) /51/52 Fax: +44 (0) finance@beds.ac.uk Useful links Accommodation: Fees: fees Living costs: Currency converter: Ensure you choose accommodation close to where the majority of your classes will be held for example, if your course is taught at Bedford, it will be much more expensive to live in Luton and travel Buy second-hand text books from other students rather than brand new ones Cycle or walk to the University it's free and will help you keep fit, too!

5 8 Accommodation 9 Your first few days and weeks in the UK will be much easier and more enjoyable if you have arranged your accommodation well in advance of your arrival at the University of Bedfordshire. Student Village, University of Bedfordshire A new 40m state of the art accommodation complex will be opening this in Luton, ready for the new academic year. Fitzroy Court will have 579 rooms, all with en-suite bathrooms. Both studio apartments and multibed flats are available. There will be numerous common areas on the ground floor all with WiFi internet access will see stage 2 of the project reach completion, with 279 additional rooms opening at Manor Road. All of this accommodation is within walking distance of the University. University of Bedfordshire Halls of Residence Living in University Halls can be a great way to truly experience British culture and make lifelong friends from all walks of life. At the Student Village at the Luton campus, there are a number of Halls to choose from, including the new Fitzroy Court and at the smaller Bedford campus you can pick between the new 20m Liberty Living en-suite complex and the more traditional University Halls. If you wish to stay in University accommodation, you must apply well in advance of your arrival in the UK via our websites. We regret that we are unable to place students who have not applied in advance. To find out more and view details of all the available University accommodation, visit: For Bedford campus For Luton campus Luton host families Choosing to stay with a host family will give you a great introduction to life in the UK. There are several good reasons to consider living with a host family. You will be able to perfect your English language skills as you will largely communicate with your family in English. A host family may well help you deal with feelings of homesickness or culture shock, and they will also give you an excellent insight into British customs and traditions. For a list of families or more information about this scheme, please advice.international@beds.ac.uk or call: +44 (0) Useful links To apply: Bedford campus accommodation Luton campus acccommodation For more information on University accommodation Bedford campus studentservices.bedford@beds.ac.uk Luton campus info@studentvillagebeds.com Host families advice.international@beds.ac.uk Artist s impression of new Luton accommodation complex, ready 2012 Private rented accommodation This option offers more flexibility than the previous two, but if you choose to rent in the private sector you will have to wait until you arrive in the UK and then find a place to stay. This means that you will need to be prepared to stay in a hotel or a bed and breakfast (B&B), possibly for a week, until you find a permanent place. Please be aware that this could be expensive and unfortunately the University is unable to provide emergency accommodation, as all of our rooms are usually fully booked by the start of term

6 10 When you arrive in the UK 11 The journey from your home country Setting off on the journey to your new life in the UK is an exciting, but daunting, step. This guide is designed to help make that journey pass as smoothly as possible! You should reserve a flight to a London airport. The main London airports are London Heathrow Airport and London Gatwick Airport. It will make things much more enjoyable (and affordable) for you if you book your flights well in advance. Please ensure that you are at the airport in plenty of time (usually at least two or three hours before take-off) and that you know when your flight is due to land in London. It is best, where possible, to try and arrive between 9.00am and 5.00pm, as this will ensure you have an easier journey up to Bedfordshire. We would advise you that it is really important to arrive in time for the start of Orientation Week, which is specially designed to help you settle in to life at the University. Orientation Week will start on Monday What to pack! As you may know, the weather in the UK can be quite variable and often changes quickly! Temperatures range from 30 degrees centigrade in the summer months to -5 degrees centigrade in the winter. It would be best to bring different types of clothes in preparation for all weather types and an umbrella is definitely a good idea! You can buy bulky winter clothing locally at reasonable prices, so there is no need to worry about exceeding the luggage allowance with heavy coats and jumpers! You might also like to bring your national dress, as we invite all our new international students to wear this on occasions such as the Welcome Party early on in the term. If you regularly take any medication, please bring at least one month s supply with you. Passport control and going through Customs When you arrive in the UK it is very important that you have all the necessary documents to hand, so that you can pass through passport control without any problems. Please keep the following documents in your hand luggage as you will need to show all or some of them at Immigration: Passport and a current valid visa Your unconditional offer letter/confirmation of Acceptance for Studies from the University of Bedfordshire A bank statement or similar document (your own or from your sponsor) that demonstrates you are able to cover tuition fees and living expenses Your TB health certificate and any chest x-rays if these have been required for your visa The Immigration Officer should be convinced that you intend to leave the UK at the end of your studies, so make sure you have a clear idea of your career plans after you leave the UK. Don t worry if the Immigration Officer asks you questions about your reasons for coming to the UK or the length of your course. Just answer clearly and don t be nervous. It is best to try and arrive during UK office hours (Monday Friday, 9.00am 5.00pm) so that if the Immigration Officer wants confirmation of your student status, he or she can contact us easily. Going through Customs in the UK After passport control, you should collect your luggage, and then proceed through Customs. If you are not carrying more than the permitted allowance of tax-free goods, you can pass through the green channel. If you have goods that must be declared to Customs, take the red channel. You may be asked to undergo tuberculosis (TB) screening at the airport, which is standard policy. Don t worry, just co-operate fully with the staff. You may have already taken a test in your home country and have the certificate with you. If this is the case, just show this to the Officer. We are pleased to offer an airport pick-up service from London Heathrow (on specified days). Please see page 23 for more information. Travelling to Luton Please make sure you have checked whether your course is based in Luton or based in Bedford, as the campuses are around 20 miles apart and students usually live at the campus their course is taught at, as it saves money and time spent on travelling. You can confirm where your course is taught by looking it up on our website, and checking the Location line. From London Heathrow Airport to Luton By coach the National Express coach is the most convenient way of travelling from Heathrow to Luton. It departs from the central bus station between Terminals 1, 2 and 3. You should ask for a one-way, adult ticket to Luton, which should cost around 20 By train an underground service is available from Terminals 1 3 (Terminals 4 and 5 have their own separate underground station). Take a train on the Picadilly Line to St Pancras International. From there take a First Capital Connect train to Luton, which will cost around 30 From London Gatwick Airport to Luton By train take the First Capital Connect train directly to Luton, which will cost up to 30 Travelling to Bedford From London Heathrow Airport to Bedford By train an underground service is available from Terminals 1 3 (Terminals 4 and 5 have their own separate underground station). Take a train on the Picadilly Line to St Pancras International. From there take a First Capital Connect train to Bedford From London Gatwick Airport to Bedford By train take the First Capital Connect train service direct to Bedford Useful links National Express coaches: National Express coaches disabled persons helpline: +44 (0) National Rail enquiries:

7 12 Orientation and registration for 2011 Airport pick-up 13 IT IS VERY IMPORTANT THAT YOU ATTEND OUR INDUCTION AND ORIENTATION, SO PLEASE MAKE EVERY EFFORT TO ARRIVE IN GOOD TIME. NOTE: ALL STUDENTS MUST ALSO ATTEND THEIR ACADEMIC INDUCTIONS. The Orientation week is designed to welcome and introduce new international students to the University and the Bedfordshire area. It will help you settle in to life at the University and introduce you gently to life in the UK. There will be social events where you will be able to meet University staff and students. It is essential for all new international students to attend International Orientation week, as they will need to register with the University doctor, and register with the police (if required). It is also the best time to open bank accounts. Representatives from the International Office, the faculties, the Students Union and a number of the national banks will be on hand to provide assistance and advice. On arrival at the University all international students will be given an Arrival and Orientation Card. You must attend all of the orientation events listed on the card and then get the card signed by the member of staff at orientation. On Friday 30, all Arrival and Orientation Cards must be handed in, fully completed and signed, to the International Office. Registration You will be able to register with the University from 19, the offer letter you have received from us will confirm this. Please ensure that, when you come to the University to register, you remember to bring: a) your original academic qualification certificates, and b) your current passport and valid visa. It is also necessary for you to have paid 65% of the first year's tuition fees in order to be eligible to register with the University. Airport pick-up service New international students arriving for the beginning of the new academic year in 2011 can request to be picked up free of charge at London Heathrow Airport (on specified days) and taken directly to the University of Bedfordshire in Luton or Bedford as part of our welcome to the University. Airport pick-up dates: Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday Saturday Sunday A dedicated team of welcome staff will be there to meet and greet you and take you to Luton or Bedford. It is best for all new international students to arrive by Monday 19 in time for the International Orientation programme. To help our new international students arrive safely and in time for Orientation week we are offering this free pickup service from London Heathrow Airport. From Monday 19 to Friday , there will also be a Welcome Team from the University at London Heathrow Airport (Terminals 3, 4, 5) to meet and greet you on arrival (from 9.00am until 5.00pm) and give you directions and assistance on your way to the University of Bedfordshire. If you arrive at any other time, then you will have to make your own way to Luton from the airport. Please see pages 1 0 and 11 of this guide for more information on the transport links between the airports and Luton and Bedford. If you have any queries, please us at: advice.international@beds.ac.uk There is no pick-up service from London Stansted or Luton Airports, although the airport in Luton is very close to the Luton campus of the University just a short taxi drive or bus journey away. If you wish to make a reservation, you need to fill out the reservation form online. How to reserve an airport pick-up 1. Check your time of arrival in the UK. This information will be on your airline ticket. 2. Fill out the booking form on the website at: 3. You must submit your booking at least seven days before your day of departure. 4. Flight changes/cancellations: Contact us immediately by telephone on or advice.international@beds.ac.uk Someone from the International Student Support Team will be in touch with you via to confirm your booking. If you have any problems filling in the form please us at: advice.international@beds.ac.uk

8 Luton campus International student orientation and registration 19 3 October

9 16 Luton campus International student orientation and registration 19 3 October am 10.00am 10.00am 11.00am 11.00am 12.00pm 12.00pm 1.00pm 1.00pm 2.00pm 2.00pm 3.00pm 3.00pm 4.00pm 4.00pm onwards Thursday 15 AIRPORT PICK-UP SERVICE From London Heathrow Airport make reservations online at Friday 16 Saturday 17 AIRPORT PICK-UP SERVICE From London Heathrow Airport make reservations online at AIRPORT PICK-UP SERVICE make reservations online at pm 5.30pm Arrival welcome drinks Getting to know you in the Treehouse come along for an informal chat, food and drink J block, Vicarage Street Sunday 18 AIRPORT PICK-UP SERVICE make reservations online at Monday 19 to Friday 23 AIRPORT MEET & GREET SERVICE at London Heathrow Airport at Terminals 3, 4, 5 from 9.00am 5.00pm Our Welcome Team will meet you on arrival and give you directions and assistance on your way to the University of Bedfordshire Monday 19 WELCOME from the Deputy Vice Chancellor Study skills and how to succeed at the University Using our online study system, BREO UNIVERSITY REGISTRATION in the Learning Resource Centre from 1.00pm Level 1, Campus Centre Opening a bank account International Advisers available Tour of the University pm. Meet in Park Square reception 4.00pm 6.00pm Bowling at the Galaxy Enjoy a game of bowling at one of the town s largest interactive entertainment venues Tickets: 3 From International Office 6.00pm Welcome from the Treehouse Games and cultural night at the Treehouse, snacks and drink available. Free entry no tickets required WELCOME to the University from International Support Team. The University s Jobs, Placements and Internships Scheme The Student Information Desk (SiD) Tuesday 20 University computing and library facilities Introduction Cross Cultural Communication Learn about English culture UNIVERSITY REGISTRATION in the Learning Resource Centre from 9.00am 4.00pm Level 1, Campus Centre Opening a bank account Tour of the University pm. Meet in Park Square reception 6.30pm Film night in J012 by Treehouse 7.00pm Treehouse Chinese Club 1.00pm 6.00pm Afternoon trip to Milton Keynes and ice skating Tickets: 9 available from the International Office

10 18 Luton campus International student orientation and registration 19 3 October am 10.00am 10.00am 11.00am 11.00am 12.00pm 12.00pm 1.00pm 1.00pm 2.00pm 2.00pm 3.00pm 3.00pm 4.00pm 4.00pm onwards Wednesday 21 How to find jobs in the UK The University Careers and Employment Service Study skills and how to succeed at the University UNIVERSITY REGISTRATION in the Learning Resource Centre from 9.00am 4.00pm Level 1, Campus Centre Police registration: 9.00am 12.00pm on Level 1, Campus Centre Opening a bank account Tour of the University pm. Meet in Park Square reception International Advisers available Welcome to the Students Union World music, games, free food and drink Students Union Lounge, Mezzanine level, Campus Centre Thursday 22 Safety and security Practical tips on keeping safe and secure The University s Jobs, Placements and Internships Scheme UNIVERSITY REGISTRATION in the Learning Resource Centre from 9.00am 4.00pm Level 1, Campus Centre Doctors registration: 9.30am 12.00pm on Level 1, Campus Centre Opening a bank account Tour of Luton town 3.00pm 4.00pm. Meet in Park Square reception International Advisers available Ten pin bowling at the Galaxy Enjoy a game of bowling at one of the town s largest interactive entertainment venues Tickets: 3 From International Office Meet at Park Square reception Community Fair, 10.00am 4.00pm Campus Centre, ground floor come and see some of the opportunities available to international students to join in the community with volunteering or local projects Friday 23 WELCOME to the University from International Support Team Feedback Question and answer session with Deputy Vice Chancellor UNIVERSITY REGISTRATION in the Learning Resource Centre from 9.00am 4.00pm Level 1, Campus Centre Opening a bank account Tour of the University pm. Meet in Park Square reception International Advisers available New International Students party 6.00pm 9.00pm Music, games and fun Traditional British fish and chips meal provided Room A001Park Square 5 De posit refunded on the night 1.00pm 6.00pm Afternoon trip to Woburn Safari Park Drive through the deer park and see lions, elephants and many others close up in the Safari Park. Tickets available from the International Office Saturday 24 AIRPORT PICK-UP SERVICE From London Heathrow Airport make reservations online at Day trip to Bournemouth Visit the beautiful and typical English seaside resort of Bournemouth for the day enjoy the long sandy beaches and traditional seaside leisure attractions Tickets 5 available from International Office Students Union welcome barbeque from 12.00pm, Campus Centre, free entry 8.00pm Students Union welcome party The Mezzanine, Campus Centre, free entry

11 20 Luton campus International student orientation and registration 19 3 October am 10.00am 10.00am 11.00am 11.00am 12.00pm 12.00pm 1.00pm 1.00pm 2.00pm 2.00pm 3.00pm 3.00pm 4.00pm 4.00pm onwards Sunday 25 Students Union welcome barbeque from 12.00pm, Campus Centre, free entry 5.00pm Buffet and welcome service Central Baptist Church AIRPORT PICK-UP SERVICE From London Heathrow Airport make reservations online at pm Students Union welcome party The Mezzanine, Campus Centre, free entry Monday 26 to Friday 30 AIRPORT MEET & GREET SERVICE at London Heathrow Airport at Terminals 3, 4, 5 from 9.00am 5.00pm Our Welcome Team will meet you on arrival and give you directions and assistance on your way to the University of Bedfordshire All International students must also attend the ACADEMIC INDUCTION for their course ACADEMIC INDUCTIONS will be taking place this week There will also be STUDY SKILLS CLASSES planned during the first few weeks of term time which may be COMPULSORY for international students Monday 26 WELCOME to the University from International Student Support Team. Check room at International Office Students Union pre-nightclub drinks 7.00pm 11.00pm The Mezzanine, free entry DOCTORS REGISTRATION: 9.00am 12.00pm on Level 1, Campus Centre Tuesday 27 Students Union Wii, board games and poker 7.00pm 11.00pm The Mezzanine, free entry (with a fee for poker) 7.00pm Treehouse Chinese Club Wednesday 28 POLICE REGISTRATION: 10.00am 1.00pm on Level 1, Campus Centre English afternoon tea (free for all international students) Putteridge Bury 3.00pm Tickets available from International Office Short presentation on visiting an English family for a weekend free of charge from HOST UK organisation this is a cultural experience held especially for international students. A traditional afternoon tea will be provided with cucumber sandwiches, and scones with cream and jam. Meet at 2.30pm in front of Park Square for coach to Putteridge Bury Students Union pre-nightclub drinks 7.00pm 11.00pm The Mezzanine, free entry 7.30pm Coffee House open-mic music and dance evening at Treehouse

12 22 Luton campus International student orientation and registration 19 3 October am 10.00am 10.00am 11.00am 11.00am 12.00pm 12.00pm 1.00pm 1.00pm 2.00pm 2.00pm 3.00pm 3.00pm 4.00pm 4.00pm onwards Thursday 29 DOCTORS REGISTRATION: 9.00am 12.00pm on Level 1, Campus Centre WELCOME to international students at Fitzroy Court accommodation free food and drink Meet at Reception, Fitzroy Court Students Union comedy lounge 7.00pm 11.00pm The Mezzanine, 4 entry Friday 30 Students Union Freshers Fayre, Carnival Arts Centre one of the biggest events of the year and your chance to find out about all the sports clubs, societies, student run services which the Students Union has to offer. All of this will be under one roof, so it s the best way to find out about how you can get involved. If that s not enough to convince you, lots of local and national companies will be there, and there are always many free items to collect! Students Union live lounge 7.00pm 11.00pm The Mezzanine, 4 entry Saturday 1 October Tour of Bedfordshire and the Chiltern Hills Drive through Woburn Deer Park, picnic in Bedford riverside gardens and walk up the Chiltern Hills see the countryside, villages, towns and history of the county of Bedfordshire. Tickets available from International Office. International Students welcome party 7.00pm 11.00pm This is a fantastic evening of wining, dining and dancing. Tickets available from International Office Only students registered since February 2010 are eligible Sunday 2 October Monday 3 October CLASSES BEGIN 5.30pm Freshers welcome service at St. Mary s Church, with cake and coffee Quiz night at the Students Union 7.00pm 11.00pm The Mezzanine level, Campus Centre, free entry NOTES: Tickets for all events will be available from the International Office on Level 1 of the Library (Learning Resource Centre Room Locations is on level 1 of the new Campus Centre. Room A001 is in the main building at Park Square, on Park Street, The Treehouse is on the ground floor of block H (the Business School) on Vicarage Street. The Students Union is on the Mezzanine level of the new Campus Centre building, in the middle of Park Square and Vicarage Street Police registration If you need to register with the police it will be stated on your Visa / Passport Doctor s registration You must bring the following with you: 1. Records of vaccinations / meningitis vaccinations 2. Details of current medication / any allergies Tour of Luton Town Centre One hour guided walk of Luton town centre, seeing the shopping centre, post office, police station, student health centre, railway station and Luton Council offices. For more information about our calendar of social events for the whole academic year, in addition to information on studying at the University of Bedfordshire and living in the UK, please see the international support webpage at: support To see your academic timetables for academic year 2011/12, see the following webpage:

13 24 Luton campus map 25

14 Bedford campus International student orientation and registration 19 3 October

15 28 Bedford campus International student orientation and registration 19 3 October am 10.00am 10.00am 11.00am 11.00am 12.00pm 12.00pm 1.00pm 1.00pm 2.00pm 2.00pm 3.00pm 3.00pm 4.00pm 4.00pm onwards Thursday 15 Friday 16 AIRPORT PICK-UP SERVICE make reservations online at Arrival welcome drinks 10.00am 6.00pm Getting to know you in the SeedBeds Centre, S0.02a come along for an informal chat, food and drink AIRPORT PICK-UP SERVICE make reservations online at Arrival welcome drinks 10.00am 6.00pm Getting to know you in the SeedBeds Centre, S0.02a come along for an informal chat, food and drink Saturday 17 Sunday 18 AIRPORT PICK-UP SERVICE make reservations online at AIRPORT PICK-UP SERVICE make reservations online at Introduction to local places of worship for students of all faiths (please see contact details at the end of this programme) Arrival welcome drinks Getting to know you in SeedBeds S0.02a come along for an informal chat, food and drink Arrival welcome drinks Getting to know you in SeedBeds S0.02a come along for an informal chat, food and drink Monday 19 to Friday 23 AIRPORT MEET & GREET SERVICE at London Heathrow Airport at Terminals 3, 4, 5 between 9.00am 5.00pm Our Welcome Team will meet you on arrival and give you directions and assistance on your way to the University of Bedfordshire Monday 19 Pre-registration: identity, immigration and qualification check (passport and visa); orientation programme handout; and International Student Guide handout Room P0.32 P0.33 UNIVERSITY REGISTRATION in room P0.32 P0.33 from 2.00pm 4.00pm Tour of the university campus 3.00pm 4.00pm Meet at the International Office reception (Room P0.39), Bedford campus Chai Café SeedBeds S0.02a 5.30pm Games and Cultural Night at the SeedBeds Centre, food and drink available. Free Entry no tickets required Tuesday 20 Pre-registration: identity, immigration and qualification check (passport and visa); orientation programme handout; and International Student Guide handout Room P0.32 P0.33 WELCOME from the Dean of Faculty of Education Sport and Tourism. Room P1.40 The Student Information Desk (SiD) Room P1.40 Using our online study system BREO Room P1.40 UNIVERSITY REGISTRATION in room P0.32 P0.33 from 2.00pm 4.00pm Tour of Bedford town 2.00pm 3.00pm Meet at the International Office reception (Room P0.39), Bedford campus Tour of the university campus 3.00pm 4.00pm. Meet at the International Office reception (Room P0.39), Bedford campus WELCOME to the University from International Support Team. Room P1.40 Student support CAAS, counselling and the chaplaincy. Room P1.40 Safety and security Room P1.40

16 30 Bedford campus International student orientation and registration 19 3 October am 10.00am 10.00am 11.00am 11.00am 12.00pm 12.00pm 1.00pm 1.00pm 2.00pm 2.00pm 3.00pm 3.00pm 4.00pm 4.00pm onwards Wednesday 21 Pre-registration: identity, immigration and qualification check (passport and visa); orientation programme handout; and International Student Guide handout Room P0.32 P0.33 UNIVERSITY REGISTRATION in room P0.32 P0.33 from 2.00pm 4.00pm Tour of the university campus 3.00pm 4.00pm. Meet at the International Office reception (Room P0.39), Bedford campus University computing and library facilities Introduction The Learning Resource Centre The Silent Faces of Bedford an alternative town tour. Cost pm leave from university bus stop (to be confirmed) Tickets available from the SeedBeds Centre Thursday 22 Pre-registration: identity, immigration and qualification check (passport and visa); orientation programme handout; and International Student Guide handout Room P0.32 P0.33 WELCOME to the University from International Support Team. Room P1.40 Study skills support Room P1.40 Cross Cultural Communication Learn about English Culture. Room P1.40 UNIVERSITY REGISTRATION in room P0.32 P0.33 from 2.00pm 4.00pm Tour of Bedford town 2.00pm 3.00pm Meet at the International Office reception (Room P0.39), Bedford campus Tour of the university campus 3.00pm 4.00pm. Meet at the International Office reception (Room P0.39), Bedford campus 5.30pm SeedBeds Film night in the SeedBeds Centre S0.02a Food and drink Free no tickets required How to succeed in your studies 1.00pm 5.00pm Room P1.40 Friday 23 Pre-registration: identity, immigration and qualification check (passport and visa); orientation programme handout; and International Student Guide handout Room P0.32 P0.33 How to find Jobs in the UK The University Careers Service Room P1.40 UNIVERSITY REGISTRATION in room P0.32 P0.33 from 2.00pm 4.00pm Tour of the university campus 3.00pm 4.00pm. Meet at the International Office reception (Room P0.39), Bedford campus New international students party 6.00pm 9.00pm. Music, Games and Fun Fish and Chips meal provided Room A001 Park Square Luton campus 5 deposit refunded on the night Please contact the International Office, Bedford Campus room P0.39 if you wish to join this event Saturday 24 AIRPORT PICK-UP SERVICE make reservations online at Day trip to Bournemouth Visit the beautiful and typical English seaside resort of Bournemouth for the day enjoy the long sandy beaches and traditional seaside leisure attractions Tickets available from International Office Students Union welcome barbeque 12.00pm 5.00pm, Courtyard and the Coffee Hub. Free entry 8.00pm Students Union welcome party The Coffee Hub. Free entry. Chillout space The SeedBeds Centre S0.02a

17 32 Bedford campus International student orientation and registration 19 3 October am 10.00am 10.00am 11.00am 11.00am 12.00pm 12.00pm 1.00pm 1.00pm 2.00pm 2.00pm 3.00pm 3.00pm 4.00pm 4.00pm onwards Sunday 25 AIRPORT PICK-UP SERVICE make reservations online at Introduction to local places of worship for students of all faiths (please see contact details at the end of this programme) Students Union welcome barbeque 12.00pm 5.00pm, Courtyard and the Coffee Hub. Free entry. 8.00pm Students Union welcome party The Coffee Hub. Free entry. Chillout space The SeedBeds Centre S0.02a Monday 26 to Friday 30 All International students must also attend the ACADEMIC INDUCTION for their course ACADEMIC INDUCTIONS will be taking place this week There will also be STUDY SKILLS CLASSES planned during the first few weeks of term time which may be COMPULSORY for international students Monday 26 Doctors registration in the Coffee Hub 5.30pm Chai Café SeedBeds Games and cultural night at the SeedBeds Centre, food and drink available. Free entry no tickets required. 7.00pm Students Union pre-venue party The Coffee Hub. Warm up for a big night out! No cost but 5 entry to venue Tuesday 27 Doctors registration in the Coffee Hub 4.00pm 5.00pm late registration for MSc Faculty of Education, Sport and Tourism students 7.00pm 11.00pm Students Union The Comedy Lounge The Coffee Hub. Live comedy acts Wednesday 28 Students Union Freshers Fayre one of the biggest events of the year and your chance to find out about all the sports clubs, societies, student run services which the Students Union has to offer. All of this will be under one roof, so it s the best way to find out about how you can get involved. If that s not enough to convince you, lots of local and national companies will be there, and there are always many free items to collect! 10.00am 4.00pm sports field, Bedford campus Doctors registration in the Coffee Hub Police registration 10.00am 1.00pm on Level 1, Campus Centre Luton campus Please contact the International Office, Bedford campus room P0.39 if you wish to register with the police at Luton Campus on this day English afternoon tea (free for all international students) Putteridge Bury 3.00pm Tickets available from International Office, Room P0.39 Bedford campus Short presentation on visiting an English family for a weekend free of charge from HOST UK organisation this is a UNIQUE cultural experience especially for international students. A traditional afternoon tea will be provided with cucumber sandwiches, and scones with cream and jam. 7.00pm Students Union pre-venue party The Coffee Hub. Warm up for a big night out! No cost but 5 entry to venue

18 34 Bedford campus International student orientation and registration 19 3 October am 10.00am 10.00am 11.00am 11.00am 12.00pm 12.00pm 1.00pm 1.00pm 2.00pm 2.00pm 3.00pm 3.00pm 4.00pm 4.00pm 6.00pm 4.00pm onwards Thursday 29 Doctors registration in the Coffee Hub 9.00am 12.00pm Late registration for BA (Hons) Business Management students 5.30pm SeedBeds Film night in the SeedBeds Centre S0.02a Food and drink. Free no tickets required 7.00pm 11.00pm Students Union games night The Coffee Hub Poker, Wii, pool, board games Free entry (Poker 5 buy in) Friday 30 Saturday 1 October Sunday 2 October Monday 3 October 3.00pm Visit to the Mayor s Parlour Learn about the history of Bedford (to be confirmed). Tickets available from the SeedBeds Centre S0.02a Tour of Bedfordshire and the Chiltern Hills Drive through Woburn Deer Park, picnic in Bedford riverside gardens and walk up the Chiltern Hills see the countryside, villages, towns and history of the county of Bedfordshire. Tickets available from International Office Introduction to local places of worship for students of all faiths. Please see contact details at the end of this programme. 2.00pm Walking visit to Danish Camp Meet at the SeedBeds Centre S0.02a for pre walk lunch and drinks at 1.00pm. Area of natural beauty, site of an ancient Viking settlement, café, boat hire CLASSES BEGIN 7.00pm 11.00pm Students Union karaoke The Coffee Hub. Free entry. 9.00pm 2.00am Students Union Freshers Ball Corn Exchange of Bedford Ticket price pm 9.00pm Students Union quiz night The Coffee Hub. Free entry. 7.00pm Students Union pre-venue party The Coffee Hub. Warm up for a big night out! No cost but 5 entry to venue NOTES: Tickets for all events will be available from the International Office at room P0.39 Bedford Campus, transport will also be available for groups of student wish to join the events in Luton. Police registration If you need to register with the Police it will be stated on your Visa / Passport Doctor s registration You must bring the following with you: 1. Records of vaccinations/meningitis vaccinations 2. Details of current medication/any allergies Tour of Bedford town centre One hour guided walk of Bedford town centre, seeing the supermarkets, the shopping centre, post office, police station, railway station and council offices For more information about our calendar of social events for the whole academic year, in addition to information on studying at the University of Bedfordshire and living in the UK, please see the international support webpage at: support To see your academic timetables for academic year 2011/12, see the following webpage:

19 36 Bedford campus map 37

20 International Student Support Office Luton F100, First floor Learning Resources Centre University of Bedfordshire Park Square Luton Bedfordshire LU1 3JU Tel: +44 (0) Fax: +44 (0) International Student Support Office Bedford P0.39, P block Polhill Avenue Bedford MK41 9EA advice.international@beds.ac.uk Tel: +44 (0) Tom Rouvray Senior International Student Adviser Tel: +44 (0) Nurun Khatun International Student Adviser Tel: +44 (0) Syeda Sultana International Student Adviser Tel: +44 (0) Sumana Vejjajiva International Student Adviser (Bedford campus) Tel: +44 (0)