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Pre-departure

Guide

2015 entry

Welcome to

Welcome
On behalf of all the staff here at
Newcastle University London I would
like to wish you a very warm welcome.
By studying with us not only will you
build the skills you need to succeed in
todays globalised work force, but you
will also be living in the exciting capital
city and making friends from all over
the world. You will join Newcastle
Universitys alumni network some
of whom have become well-known in
the business sphere including Andrew
Bird, CEO of Disney International;
and Keith Ludeman, former CEO of
Go-Ahead Group. We hope you enjoy
your time here.
Elizabeth Munro, Chief Operating Officer
Newcastle University London

www.facebook.com/
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NewcastleUniLDN

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Welcome

Newcastle University London

Our purpose-built campus is in the heart of Londons


financial district, known as the City of London.
You will find yourself perfectly placed for access to
the financial institutions of the City, as well as the
culturally vibrant areas of Shoreditch and Brick Lane.
A welcoming student city

London is the third most popular student city


in the world, according to the QS Best Student
Cities 2015, giving you a rich social life. You
will have the opportunity to meet students from
diverse cultures and backgrounds, and take
advantage of the wealth of cultural activities
available on your doorstep.

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Your London campus

00291_INTO_BLUE_London_AW_v18_FLAT_OL_A4_CR.pdf 1 01/05/2015 15:10:40

Your London
campus

Introduction
We are looking forward to welcoming you to the University
during the 2015-16 academic year, and we hope that your
time here is both successful and enjoyable!

Welcome Week and registration for


English for University Study and
academic pathway students
Mon 21 Sept 2015 to Fri 25 Sept 2015

English for University Study

September start
Mon 21 Sept 2015 to Fri 11 Dec 2015
January start
Wed 06 Jan 2016 to Thu 24 Mar 2016
April start
Mon 04 Apr 2016 to Fri 17 Jun 2016
July start
Mon 04 Jul 2016 to Fri 09 Sept 2016

International Foundation/Diploma/
Graduate Diploma
September start (three term)
Mon 21 Sept 2015 to Fri 11 Dec 2015
Mon 04 Jan 2016 to Fri 18 Mar 2016
Mon 04 Apr 2016 to Fri 10 Jun 2016

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How to use the guide

Through this guide, we intend to help you


make all the necessary preparations before
you depart, from booking your accommodation
to planning your arrival. We also provide
information on other things you will need to do
once you arrive, and give you a general idea of
the costs involved.

We suggest that you keep this booklet as


a source of useful information. Please
familiarise yourself with our term dates
opposite, and if you have any further
questions feel free to email us at any time:
newcastlelondon@ncl.ac.uk

September start (four term)


Mon 21 Sept 2015 to Fri 11 Dec 2015
Mon 04 Jan 2016 to Fri 18 Mar 2016
Mon 04 Apr 2016 to Fri 10 Jun 2016
Mon 13 Jun 2016 to Fri 02 Sept 2016
January start (three term)
Mon 04 Jan 2016 to Fri 18 Mar 2016
Mon 04 Apr 2016 to Fri 10 Jun 2016
Mon 13 Jun 2016 to Fri 02 Sept 2016

Welcome Week and registration


for undergraduate and postgraduate
degree students
Mon 28 Sept 2015 to Fri 02 Oct 2015

Undergraduate degrees

Autumn Term
Mon 28 Sept 2015 to Fri 18 Dec 2015
Spring Term
Mon 11 Jan 2016 to Fri 11 Mar 2016
Summer Term
Mon 11 Apr 2016 to Fri 17 Jun 2016

Central London campus.

2 Welcome Desk.

Semester dates

Semester 1
Mon 28 Sept 2015 to Fri 29 Jan 2016
Semester 2
Mon 1 Feb 2016 to Fri 17 Jun 2016

Postgraduate degrees

Mon 28 Sept 2015 to Fri 26 Sept 2016

Public holidays
2015

Summer bank holiday


Mon 31 Aug 2015
Christmas Day
Fri 25 Dec 2015
Boxing Day
Sat 26 Dec 2015
2016
New Year holiday
Fri 01 Jan 2016
Good Friday
Fri 25 Mar 2016
Easter bank holiday
Mon 28 Mar 2016
May Day holiday
Mon 02 May 2016
Spring bank holiday
Mon 30 May 2016
Summer bank holiday
Mon 29 Aug 2016
Christmas Day
Sun 25 Dec 2016
Boxing Day
Mon 26 Dec 2016

07
Important dates

06

Important dates 2015-2016

Before you depart


Below are some helpful hints and tips for before you leave home.
What should I bring?

When leaving home for a year or more, it can


be hard to decide what to pack. Its tempting
to bring everything just in case, but remember
you will have to carry your luggage, so pack
only what you need. You can always buy extra
items once you arrive, and there are plenty of
good value shops close by.
If you need more information about the best
places to shop after you arrive, you can ask at
the Welcome Desk

General

Before you set off, make sure you have noted


down the address and contact details of where
you will be staying along with the campus
address, so that you can contact us if it takes
longer than planned to travel. Make sure that
your family has these details too.
Please also bring your original documents
as specified in your offer letter, such as your
passport, visa and original transcripts, as you
will need these to register for your programme.

For your room

If you have chosen to live in one of the student


residences you do not need to bring any
bedding or towels as this is provided for you,
but we suggest that you bring some personal
items for your room that will remind you of
home and help you to settle in quickly.

The kitchen

A kettle, toaster, cooker hob, fridge and


microwave are supplied, along with cutlery,
mugs and glasses. However, you will need
your own saucepans, plates and bowls. You
can buy a pack of these kitchen items from
your accommodation provider please enquire
upon your arrival if you are interested.
Students staying at Scape Living will need
saucepans that work on an induction hob.
Pans that work on gas and electric hobs do
not always work with induction hobs so please
ensure that you bring or buy the correct items.

International students
Clothing

The UK weather varies, so bring clothes to suit


all conditions. You can typically expect colder
weather from December to February and hotter
temperatures from June until August. Many
students find it useful to carry an umbrella as
rain can occur unexpectedly.
As well as everyday clothing you may wish
to bring some smart items for job interviews
and other formal events.

Airport baggage

If you are planning on flying to London you


should remember that most airlines allow
2023 kg of checked luggage and there
are strict size and weight restrictions now
on all hand luggage.
For an overview of items that you are allowed
to bring to the UK visit:
www.gov.uk/duty-free-goods.

Shipping items

It can be cheaper to buy items in the UK.


Students often find it is better to wait until they
have arrived to work out what they need. A
friend or family member can then send any
additional items later.
If you ship items, you must make sure you
arrive before your package does, as we cannot
store them for you. Prices can vary greatly and
it is important to make sure the company you
use is reliable. Make sure to pack carefully
and insure your belongings against damages.
Always label your luggage clearly, whether you
are carrying it or sending it separately.

Electricity

The electricity supply in the UK is 230 volts


with a frequency of 50 hertz. Ensure your
appliances are connected to a plug fitted with
a fuse of the correct rating.

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Before you depart

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All students are expected to arrive in time for


Welcome Week and should complete registration
before teaching begins. Find out about our airport
pick-up service and how to prepare for your journey.
When should I arrive?

We recommend that you plan to arrive on the


weekend before your course starts, to allow
you time to settle in, attend the Welcome Week
and register for your course. Please see the
important dates on page 7 for full details.
We do not recommend that you arrive
before Saturday 26 September 2015, as
your accommodation may not be available
before this date. If you do want to arrive early,
please contact the Admissions Office or email
newcastlelondon@ncl.ac.uk.
It is essential that you arrive before teaching
starts: on Monday 28 September 2015 for
pathway students and on Monday 05 October
2015 for degree students.

Your arrival details

All students must complete our online


pre-arrival form to let us know the date
and expected time of your arrival, so that
we know when to expect you:
www.intohigher.com/arrival-form.

International students travelling


to London

If you are travelling from outside the UK, we


recommend flying to one of Londons three
international airports, then travelling to the
campus either by using public transport or by
requesting our airport pickup service.

Student Ambassadors

If you are arriving at Heathrow or Gatwick


Airport during the weekend before Welcome
Week for the September and January intake
(see page 7 for important dates), there will be
a team of Student Ambassadors on hand to
welcome you and to assist you with getting to
your accommodation.

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Airport pickups

For international students arriving in the UK for


the first time, we can arrange for a taxi to meet
you upon arrival. A pre-arranged transfer will
offer you peace of mind and ensure that you
are met by someone who knows where you
need to go. To book a pickup, please complete
the arrival details form, at least seven days
before you arrive:
www.intohigher.com/arrival-form.

London Heathrow Airport

There are two train services that link Heathrow


Airport to London Paddington the Heathrow
Express and Heathrow Connect. The Heathrow
Express takes 15 minutes, while the journey
on the Heathrow Connect varies between 31
and 49 minutes. Tickets purchased in advance
online are often cheaper.
National Express also offers a 24-hour coach
service from Heathrow to Victoria coach station
with a journey time of 70 minutes to 1 hour 50
minutes, depending on the time of day.
www.heathrowairport.com
www.heathrowexpress.com
www.nationalexpress.com

London Gatwick Airport

The Gatwick Express is a non-stop train service


to London Victoria which takes only 30 minutes.
National Express also operates direct services
to London Victoria with a journey time of 1.5 to
2 hours, depending on the time of day.
www.gatwickairport.com
www.gatwickexpress.com
www.gatwick-airport-guide.co.uk

London Stansted Airport

There are express train services from Stansted


Airport directly to Liverpool Street Station.
The journey takes around 45 minutes.
www.stanstedairport.com
www.stanstedexpress.com

Your journey

10

Your journey
to Newcastle
University London

The campus has excellent public transport links, enabling


you to get to other parts of the city quickly and easily.
Travel discounts

Once registered on your course, you can


apply for a student Oyster card (a travel card
allowing you to use city transport) if you are 18
or older, which entitles you to 30 per cent off
adult rates.
For more information and to apply for a
student Oyster card visit: https://tfl.gov.uk/
fares-and-payments/adult-discounts-andconcessions/18-student.

By underground

Liverpool Street Station is a five-minute walk


from the campus and offers connections across
London via the Central, Circle, Hammersmith
and City, and Metropolitan Underground lines.
From the middle of September 2015, travel
will be possible on the Jubilee, Victoria and
most of the Piccadilly, Central and Northern
Underground lines all night on Fridays and
Saturdays.

By bus

Londons famous red buses are a quick,


convenient and cheap way to travel around the
city, with plenty of sightseeing opportunities
along the way.
Londons buses run throughout the night. Night
bus services cover the period between the
close of the Tube and the start of daytime bus
services. In addition, many London bus routes
run for 24 hours.
Please note that London buses are cash
free and so you will need an Oyster card or
contactless payment card to pay as you go.
For more information, visit: www.tfl.gov.uk

By taxi

There are two types of taxis in London: black


cabs and licensed taxis.
Londons official taxis, the iconic black cabs,
can be hailed in the street or at designated
ranks situated in prominent places, including
many mainline rail, tube and bus stations. They
can also be booked in advance by telephone.
Fares are metered. Many black cabs accept
payment by credit or debit card but you should
check with the driver first.
Reputable, licensed minicab companies can
offer a cheaper alternative to the black cab,
and must be booked in advance by telephone
or email. While their fares are generally
reasonable, they are not metered, and so we
recommend that you ask how much the trip will
cost when making the booking.
Other transport options

Docklands Light Railway (DLR): serves parts


of east and south-east London.

Emirates Air Line: a cable car across the

Thames between Greenwich Peninsula and


the Royal Docks.

River Bus Services on the Thames: six

different routes with destinations between


Putney and Royal Woolwich Arsenal.

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Travelling around

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Travelling
around London

Everyone arriving in the UK has to pass through


Immigration Control. The rules and conditions regarding
entry are strictly enforced by Immigration Officers, but if you
have obtained all the necessary documents in your home
country before leaving, you should not have any problems.
Who needs a visa for the UK?

If you are a national of the European Economic


Area (EEA) or of Switzerland you do not require
a visa or immigration permission to enter and
remain in the UK while you are studying. Your
passport or identity card will not be stamped
when you enter the UK as there is no formal
time limit on your stay.
Further immigration guidance for European
Economic Area Nationals is on the Home Office
website:
www.gov.uk/browse/ visas-immigration/eueea-commonwealth.
Most nationals of non-EEA countries will require
immigration permission to enter the UK.

What type of visa do I need?

The main immigration routes for study at


Newcastle University London are Tier 4
General and Short Term Study visas.
Tier 4 General is offered to students who intend to
stay in the UK for longer than six months or who
may need to extend their stay for further study.
The Short Term Study visa route is used for
study programmes of six months or less.
An 11-month route is available for students
who will be studying English language only.

Can I bring dependents with me?

Students making an application under the


Tier 4 General category can apply to bring
dependents (spouse/partner/children under 18
years of age) if your intended programme of
study is 12 months or more and is at NQF7 or
above or you are a new government-sponsored
student studying a programme of six months.
Short Term Study visa holders may be able
to bring their family members with them
under the general visitor category.
Further information can be found at:
www.ukcisa.org.uk/international-students/
preparing--planning/visas-and-immigration/
bringing-your-family.

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How do I apply for a Tier 4


General visa?

To apply for a Tier 4 General visa you must


first receive confirmation that the University will
sponsor you under this category. This is called
Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies or
CAS. You will also require appropriate financial
evidence in the form of a sponsor letter or bank
statements. The earliest you can only apply for
your Tier 4 General visa is three months before
the start date of your programme.
To apply, you should:

read the Tier 4 policy guidance

very carefully at:


www.gov.uk/government/publications/
guidance-on-application-for-uk-visas-tier4-student

go to www.gov.uk/apply-uk-visa to make
your application.

You must make sure that you apply under


the correct category.

What happens next?

If your Tier 4 application is successful, you will


be issued with an entry clearance sticker which
will be valid for 30 days. You should ensure that
you enter the UK as soon as possible within the
30-day period, as you will be required to collect
a Tier 4 Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) card
on arrival in the UK from a specified collection
point.* Under the terms of your Tier 4 visa you
should ensure that you:

collect your BRP card within 10 days of

arrival in the UK and before you register


with Newcastle University London

refer to your decision letter to determine

where you will need to go to collect your BRP


card: www.ncl.ac.uk/students/ progress/
visa/BRP/BRP

register with Newcastle University London


as soon as possible

make arrangements to register with the

police if required to do so: www.ncl.ac.uk/


students/ progress/visa/police

Depending on your country of residence,


you may be required to submit a tuberculosis
(TB) certificate as part of your application.

attend your study programme as required

As part of the application process you will be


required to attend an appointment to submit
your biometric data (have your fingerprints
and photograph taken).

do not breach the work conditions of your

You may also have to attend an appointment


for a credibility interview. This is conducted by
the Home Office to ensure you have genuine
study intentions in the UK.

do not switch to part-time study, as this

(unauthorised absences will be reported


to the Home Office)
Tier 4 visa (limits are set on the number
of hours you are permitted to work and
when. You must not be self-employed).

may not be allowed under the conditions


of your visa.

* If you Tier 4 visa is for less than 6 months,


you will need to collect a BPR card on arrival.

Visa advice

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Visa advice for


international
students

Entry clearance applications for a Short Term


Study visa are optional for nationals of some
countries, but it is advisable to apply for entry
clearance before travelling to the UK to avoid
any problems on arrival at the port of entry.

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To apply for a Short Term Study visa you will


need a letter from the relevant admissions team
at Newcastle University outlining your intended
programme of study. You should then make
your application at
www.gov.uk/study-visit-visa/app.

What are the conditions of a Short


Term Study visa?
Students in the UK with a visa for Short Term
Study may not:

take paid or unpaid employment or be selfemployed

switch to any other immigration category

whilst in the UK, or extend their stay in the


UK Students who may need to be in the UK
for longer than six months should ensure
they can meet the conditions as a Tier 4
General student.

Important information about


travelling to the UK

Students who are subject to immigration


permission should avoid entering the UK
through the Republic of Ireland. There are no
immigration controls between the UK and the
Republic of Ireland. This means that students
with entry clearance will not have their visas
activated on arrival. Students who have not
obtained entry clearance before travelling to
the UK and who arrive with visitor leave for the
Republic of Ireland only will not be allowed to
register at Newcastle University London as they
will not have the correct immigration permission
to do so.
Further information to prepare for your arrival
in the UK can be found at www.ncl.ac.uk/
students/progress/visa/applying_student_
visa/Prospective/Afteryouarrive.

What is the immigration


health charge?

From 6 April 2015, students applying for a visa


to come to the UK for more than six months will
be required to pay a health charge of 150 for
each year of their intended study at the time of
their immigration application.
The charge is based on the grant of leave
appropriate to a students stay, so students
may also be subject to partial charges for any
additional months on their visas.
The charge will also apply to the dependents
of Tier 4 applicants. See page 27 for more
information.

How can I apply for a visa


to travel in Europe?

You may wish to use your vacation period to


travel in Europe. You should first check the
immigration requirements of the country you
wish to visit to find out if you need a visa.
Most students will require a Schengen visa.
Details of how to apply for a Schengen visa
are available at: www.ncl.ac.uk/ students/
progress/visa/Travelling.

Immigration and customs

All students arriving at a UK airport must be


checked by immigration control. To ensure
smooth entry into the UK you will need to have
the following documents in your hand luggage:

your CAS statement and offer letter


all the documents you used to apply for your
visa, including your bank statement(s)

a valid passport or travel document,


and a valid visa

a completed landing card (this will be


given to you on the plane)

a health or medical certificate, including


your TB certificate, if required.

Completing your landing card

If you do not hold a UK passport, you will need


to complete a landing card. You will normally
be given a landing card to complete during
your flight but they will also be available before
passport control once you arrive in the UK.
On the landing card please list your:

flight number and city and/or country you


flew from

family and given names


birth details and gender
nationality and actual occupation
your full contact address while you are in the
UK, including the postcode

signature.
If you come from certain countries and want to
stay in the UK for more than six months, you
may be required to have a medical examination
carried out by a qualified medical inspector.

Meeting immigration staff


at the airport

When you arrive at a UK airport, you should be


prepared to answer some questions, such as:

Why are you coming to the UK?


Where and what course are you studying?
Where will you live during your studies?
Do you have a CAS from Newcastle
University London?

How are you going to fund your studies?


You may be asked to undergo a brief, routine
health check by the airport doctor, which might
include an x-ray. The health check will take
place in a separate room.
Very few students have problems at
immigration. If you do have a problem please
contact the Student Services team or phone
the emergency contact number.

To find out more

We advise that you check the following


websites regularly for up-to-date and accurate
information.
Who should apply and where to apply:
www.gov.uk/uk-border-control
UKCISA (Council for International Student
Affairs) advice for international students:
www.ukcisa.org.uk

Renewing your Tier 4 visa


in the UK

The University can assist you with any further


Tier 4 applications you might need to make
in the UK for further study at Newcastle
University London.
We can guide you through the process, but it is
essential that you begin preparations to renew
your visa as early as possible by attending a
visa workshop at least eight weeks before your
visa expires.
For further information, please ask
at the Welcome Desk or email:
newcastlelondon@ncl.ac.uk.

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Visa advice

How do I apply for a Short Term


Study visa?

Accommodation
Choosing your accommodation

You can find out more detailed information


about each accommodation option by visiting
our website: www.ncl.ac.uk/london/studentlife/accommodation.htm.
For further information, check online or
contact the London Accommodation team:
newcastlelondon@ncl.ac.uk.
We will do our best to place you into your
first choice of accommodation but we cannot
guarantee availability. The sooner you pay your
deposit, the better your chance of getting the
room you would like.

International student
accommodation guarantee

If you are an international student coming to


the University alone to study an undergraduate
or postgraduate degree we guarantee
accommodation for the first year of your
programme, provided you have accepted
our offer for a place at Newcastle University
London before 31 July and have applied
for accommodation and confirmed your
preference by 31 July of your year of entry.

Your accommodation contract

Your accommodation contract will normally


start on the Saturday before your course start
date, and will cover the duration of the first year
of your course.
All contracts include the Christmas and Easter
holiday periods. This enables you to leave your
possessions in your room during University
holiday periods.

How to pay for your


accommodation

All accommodation fees for the entire duration


of the accommodation booked must be paid
in full in pounds sterling by cheque, bankers
draft, bank transfer, credit or debit card at least
six weeks prior to the start date of your course.

Living as part of a community

For many students this may be the first time


you have lived independently as part of a
student community. You are expected to be
considerate towards your neighbours and
comply with our code of conduct. Failure to
do so may result in disciplinary action and,
in serious instances, your accommodation
contract being cancelled.
UK and international students will live in
the same accommodation blocks, and we
recommend that students take this opportunity
to socialise with those from different
backgrounds. This will give you an insight into
other cultures, which is not only personally
rewarding but also a vital asset on your CV in
todays globalised work environment.

For accommodation costs, please visit:


www.intohigher.com/uk/en-gb/our-centres/
newcastle-university-london/living/
accommodation.aspx.

Once registered, your accommodation provider


will provide further information such as how to
collect your keys and on rules and regulations.

4
3
2
1
1
2
3
4

Scape East Mile End.


On-site laundry facilities, Scape East Mile End.
Stratford ONE.
The Craft Building.

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Accommodation

18

Choosing the right place to live is important for all


students coming to university. In London we offer a variety
of accommodation options including residences within
easy reach of the campus, carefully selected homestay
accommodation or privately let accommodation.

Student finance
Paying your tuition fees

Your tuition fees must be paid to Newcastle


University London no later than six weeks prior
to the start date of your course. Details on how
to pay have been included in your offer letter,
but if you need further advice please email:
newcastlelondon@ncl.ac.uk.

Bursaries and scholarships

A range of bursaries and scholarships of


differing values are offered by Newcastle
University London to both undergraduate and
postgraduate students. Your year of entry
determines the bursary or scholarship scheme
you are eligible to be considered for.
For more information, visit: www.newcastle.
ac.uk/london/scholarships.htm.

Alumni discount

Newcastle University graduates may be


entitled to an Alumni Discount on fees.
Further information is available at:
www.ncl.ac.uk/undergraduate/finance/
tuitionfees/alumni-discount/
or
www.ncl.ac.uk/postgraduate/funding/search/
list/atfd.

Bringing money to the UK

If you are an international student, you should


bring enough money to live on for the first few
weeks in the UK. However, please do not bring
large amounts of cash with you.
Once you have opened a bank account in the
UK (see page 23 for more details) you can
talk to your bank about the best way to transfer
money. We advise using travellers cheques,
as they are a safer way of carrying money
when you travel.

21
Student finance

20

Our high graduate employability and low cost of living


mean a degree from Newcastle is a sound financial
investment. To help finance your studies, the
University offers a generous range of scholarships.
Typical costs in London

London is expensive in comparison to many


other world cities, so we advise students to
budget carefully.

Mobile phone costs

We recommend that international students


use an international sim card in their mobile
phones, as if they use their phone with its usual
sim they will receive a very expensive bill.
We give out free Lebara mobile sim cards to
international students during orientation week,
which are preloaded with 1 credit. Students
can then top up with credit as they go, or buy
30-day bundles from 7.95-17 including UK
minutes, data and SMS allowances. Further
instructions will come with the sim card.
For information on country calling rates please
visit: www.lebara.co.uk/students.

Academic costs

As a general guide we recommend that you


budget around 150 to cover the cost of
academic books you will need. We will be able
to provide further clarification during Welcome
Week (see page 7 for important dates).

Everyday costs
Zone 12 Day
Travel Card
Zone 12 Monthly
Travel Card
Cinema ticket
Local lunch
Weekly food shop
Social event
Ticket to Premier
League Football
Local gym
membership

9 (or 6.30 with a


student Oyster card)
117 (or 81.90 with
a student Oyster card)
913
35
45
Free28
10100
39 per month

Your first week


Keep in contact with home

Going to university is an exciting time, but


remember that your family and friends may
worry about you. Remember to contact them
and let them know you have arrived safely.
We recommend that you download useful
apps and software such as Skype, FaceTime
and WhatsApp before you arrive. These apps
will enable you to contact other users free of
charge, once you are connected to Wi-Fi.
We have installed Skype on the computers
in our study areas, and we recommend that
students take advantage of this on arrival.

Welcome Week

Welcome Week (see page 7 for important


dates) is a full orientation programme, giving
students the opportunity to settle in a week
before their course starts. It includes a
formal welcome to the University, a tour of
the teaching and learning facilities and an
introduction to your course and teachers. A
city tour is also offered to those that are new to
London, and a fun welcome party will be held
to give students the opportunity to get to know
each other prior to course commencement.
You will receive a letter with more information
about Welcome Week before you arrive in
London. Attendance is vital, but if you cannot
attend on the specified dates please
email newcastlelondon@ncl.ac.uk
at the earliest opportunity.

Registering for your course

Every student joining Newcastle University


London is also required to register for their
course during Welcome Week, to confirm that
they are a Newcastle University student. Details
on how to register will be provided in the letter,
and will involve bringing various documents to
the university campus.
If you have not paid your full tuition and
accommodation fees, you will need to do so
before you are able to register. Please see
your offer letter for further information or email:
newcastlelondon@ncl.ac.uk.

Meeting your personal tutor

A personal tutor will be assigned to students


during the first few weeks of their course,
to give them the opportunity to discuss any
academic and/or welfare issues they might
have. International Foundation students will
be required to meet with their personal tutor
on a termly basis, whereas students on other
courses have the option of meeting with
them as and when required.

Student ID card

During your first week you will be issued with


a University Smartcard. You will need this to
access the building and library facilities. It will
contain a digital photograph and brief details
including your name and card expiry date.

International students
What documentation do
I need to bring with me?

During registration, we can help you arrange


your police registration and health check
appointments, if required.
You will need the following documentation
on your first day:

passport and/or identity card


valid visa (if appropriate)
all payment receipts or fees
if not already paid

academic transcripts (original)


and certificates (original)

evidence of English proficiency (original)


course confirmation letter
up-to-date address for home country
and next of kin details

contact details for your UK residence,


including mobile telephone number.

Opening a bank account

You will need a UK bank account to receive


and make payments. Some banks allow you
to open a bank account in the UK while you
are in your home country. You should consult
individual bank websites to see which products
best meet your banking needs, or visit the
British Banking Association website for advice:
www.bba.org.uk.
We recommend Santander, as there are no
additional costs involved for students. It can
take several months to clear a personal cheque
that is drawn on a bank outside the UK.
However you will not be able
to open a UK bank account until you receive
a letter from the Home Office informing you
that you have student status.
The following are the main UK banks.
Barclays: www.barclays.com
Halifax: www.halifax.co.uk
HSBC: www.hsbc.co.uk
Lloyds: www.lloydsbank.com
NatWest: www.natwest.com
RBS: www.rbs.co.uk
Santander: www.santander.co.uk
TSB: www.tsb.co.uk
If you bring a bankers draft in pounds sterling
with you (payable to yourself) or arrange for it
to be sent, you can open a bank account after
you have registered on your course.
The following is a checklist of what is usually
required to open a UK bank account, although
requirements can vary:

your passport
proof you are a student we will issue you
with an official bank letter after registration

proof of UK address such as the


accommodation contract

proof of your home address

is also a possible requirement.

For more information, visit: www.ukcisa.org.uk

23
Your first week

22

When you first arrive at the University there is a


lot to do, so we have put together the following
information to guide you through your first few days.

Here to help
Free In-sessional English
language support

During the registration process you will


need to take the University English Language
Assessment (UELA). The purpose of the
UELA is to advise you as early as possible
of your current English language level so
you can benefit from the English support
relevant to you.
Depending on your UELA results, you may
be able to take up to 12 hours of in-sessional
classes per week. These classes help you to
improve your English and achieve your full
academic potential. They are available free
of charge to all students whose first language
is not English.
Students from countries that are highly
proficient in English will be exempt from
taking the test, as will students with high
English language test scores.
For more information, please visit:
www.ncl.ac.uk/students/insessional/uela

Registering with the police

If you are required to register with the police,


the Home Office will send you a letter to let you
know before your course begins. If required,
you must do so within seven days of arriving
in the UK. Staff at the Welcome Desk can help
you with the registration when you arrive, but
if you would like further information about this
beforehand please email newcastlelondon@
ncl.ac.uk.
To register with the police, you should take
the following with you:

your passport and visa


proof of UK address (utility bill
or accommodation contract)

proof of studies (letter confirming

you are a student at the University)

two passport-sized photos of yourself


your registration fee (currently 34).
Collect your biometric
residence permit

If you are coming to the UK to study you will


be issued with a biometric residence permit
(BRP) as part of your visa process. You must
collect your biometric residence permit within
10 days of arrival in the UK, and before you
register with Newcastle University London,
from the Post Office branch detailed in your
decision letter. You will need to bring both your
passport and decision letter to the Post Office
to collect your BRP card.
For more information, visit:
www.ncl.ac.uk/students/progress/
visa/BRP/BRP

Madonna Fieldhouse, Head of Student Services

25
Your first week

24

The Student Services team is here to help with


anything you need to settle into your new life in
London. The hub of the campus is the Welcome
Desk where you will receive a warm and friendly
welcome from the team.

We hope that your time at university is trouble free. If you


do feel unwell at any time, our Student Support team will
be able to help you access the medical help that you need.
All students

Registering with a doctor


All students should register with a local GP as
soon as possible. This is particularly important
for international students as failure to do so
may invalidate your insurance policy. Details
of how to register with the nearest GP will be
available from the Welcome Desk.
Your medical history
If you are currently receiving any medical
treatment, or have glasses or contact
lenses, we advise you to bring your current
prescriptions and a doctors report (in English),
summarising your medical history.
Medication
We suggest that you bring enough medication
to last you the first term. For international
students, it is important to bring your
medication in its original packaging, as this will
help a doctor to identify what you are taking,
and is also useful for customs officers.

Students with a disability


Newcastle University London is committed
to providing an accessible environment for
our students. Our Disability Support team
can provide you with advice and guidance
throughout your application and at all stages
of your university career.
If you have not already done so as part of your
application, we encourage you to contact us at
newcastlelondon@ncl.ac.uk so that you can
find out more about the Universitys provision
for disabled students, and we can ensure
that everything is in place in advance of your
arrival.
Safety on campus
We take your safety very seriously and if you
see anything that concerns you, please report
it to the Welcome Desk and we will ensure that
it is dealt with immediately.
Smoking
Smoking is not allowed on our campus or in
enclosed public spaces in the UK, as well as
some outdoor public spaces, such as bus
stops and train stations. You may be fined
if you smoke in these places, or anywhere
else displaying a No smoking sign. In
consideration of others, please do not smoke
directly outside the building.

27

UK/EU students

International students

National Health Service

Private health insurance

If you are a UK resident, coming to the UK as


a full-time student enrolled on a course lasting
over six months, or you are from a country
which is part of the European Union, you will
be entitled to free treatment from the National
Health Service (NHS).
Medical care is free if you are entitled to NHS
treatment, except:

prescriptions
dental treatment
eye tests, glasses and contact lenses
immunisations.
All you have to do is register with a local
General Medical Practitioner (GP) when you
arrive. A local GP will be there during Welcome
Week to help students with this, but they can
come to the Welcome Desk at any time.

Full travel, medical and health insurance is


mandatory for all international students. Unless
proof of suitable insurance is provided during
the application process, Uniplan Insurance will
automatically be added to your course fees.

Personal safety

The UK is a safe place in which to study and


live. For practical tips on how to keep safe
during your studies, please visit:
www.britishcouncil.org/eumd-immigration.
htm.
We also have lockers where students can store
their belongings while on campus please
ask at the Welcome Desk when you arrive for
further details.

Health services

26

Health services
in the UK

Studying at a University is very different from school,


and if you are an international student you may also
find certain ways of studying, as well as the way we
deliver our teaching, different to your own country.
Lectures

In lectures, University academic staff present


information to a large number of students. You
are expected to take your own notes during a
lecture, even if notes are also provided. You
may also be directed to use online learning
resources connected to the topic of the lecture.
The lecture will often introduce you to a certain
topic that might then be discussed in more
detail in a seminar.
You will be given a list of books at the
beginning of the semester and you are
expected to do extra reading on certain
topics. In addition to attending and
participating in lectures, private study is
considered a very important part of the
learning process at Newcastle University
London as it allows for the development
of independent thoughts and ideas.

Seminars

A seminar involves a much smaller number of


students and gives you the chance to discuss
a previous lecture or specific topic. You are
expected to participate in the discussion and
attend every seminar. Preparation and reading
beforehand are essential. You may disagree
with the opinions of other students or even
the staff and discuss the reasons why; this
is expected and encouraged. What you say
should be informed by reading and having
critically considered the topic.

Tutorials

You will also have one-to-one tutorials with your


Personal Tutor about general academic matters
as well as personal/welfare issues if you need
to discuss these.

Group work

We encourage our students to work in groups


to solve problems, develop presentations or
complete projects. This will help you to develop
your social and team skills, which are important
qualities to many employers.
It is therefore very important that you try your
hardest to contribute fully to the work of the
group you are in. Do not sit back and let others
do all the work just because you are shy about
speaking or expressing your ideas. Some
of your group work will be assessed, so it is
important that you participate fully.

29

Private study

Studying at a UK university will encourage


you to be an independent and active learner.
As well as the formal hours of your timetable,
you will be expected to devote a lot of time
to reading, researching, revising and making
notes on your own, and you must be selfdisciplined enough to devote a large part
of your time to this, particularly if you are a
postgraduate student.

Assessments

At Newcastle University London, each taught


degree programme is divided into a series of
modules. Each module has its own assessment
method, which can take the form of exams,
essays, dissertations, presentations or group
work.
There are three main University examination
periods each academic year:

Semester One examinations (January)


Semester Two examinations (May/June)
re-sit examinations (August).

Plagiarism

The word plagiarise means to copy work


from another person or source without
acknowledging or referencing it. Newcastle
University London takes this very seriously
and if a student is guilty of plagiarism they can
expect to be disciplined. For example, it is not
acceptable to copy content from the Internet or
printed publications into a piece of academic
work. Rules on this may be different in your
home country so if you have any questions
please ask on arrival.

Monitored attendance

Good attendance is key to academic success.


Newcastle University London expects students
to attend all academic sessions. Student
attendance is monitored carefully and where
attendance is not satisfactory, we have an
absence procedure.
Newcastle University London has an
additional obligation to report to UK Visas
and Immigration any changes that may affect
the terms of an international students visa,
including absence from the programme.

Studying at Newcastle University London

28

Studying at
Newcastle
University London

Social life
Students Union

International Students House

Information about how to get involved and


activities on offer will be provided during
Welcome Week.

If you choose to become a member you can


enjoy a large variety of events, activities,
sports and hobbies in a safe, friendly and fun
environment. Most of the activities are free as
part of your membership, while a small fee is
charged for some.

Students at Newcastle University London are


members of Newcastle University Students
Union (NUSU), whose job it is to make sure
that you have a great time while studying
here. The Students Union is run by students,
for students, and provides social activities as
well as advice and support. We also represent
students on their concerns and problems,
meaning that you truly have a voice on all
matters that affect you.

Sport

In London, you are never far from world-class


sports facilities. Host of the London 2012
Olympic and Paralympic Games, the city is
home to the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park,
which recently reopened to the public and is
only three underground stops from the campus.
For more information, visit:
www.queenelizabetholympicpark.co.uk
Within walking distance of the campus are a
number of private gyms, offering access to
training facilities for a monthly charge. Students
will usually qualify for a discount. Please ask at
the Welcome Desk for details on arrival.

International Students House (ISH) is a unique


social, cultural and recreational centre in the
heart of London the ideal place to meet and
make friends. ISH welcomes students from all
over the world, including local students from
the UK, which helps to make it a truly multicultural environment.

For more information, visit:


www.ish.org.uk

Multifaith provision

London is a cosmopolitan city, which caters to


all the major religions of the world. The Student
Services team can provide you with information
on places of worship close to the campus.

31
Social life

30

London attracts people to live, work and study from


all over the world. Theres always something going
on to get you out and about and enjoying student life!

Enjoy panoramic views


across London from either
the London Eye or the Shard.

Watch a live concert - the O2,


Wembley Stadium and Hyde Park are
popular venues for big name artists.

See a West End show


- many of which offer
student discounts!

33
London

32

on:
d
n
o
L of the
one s most y
d
worl lar stud s
popustination
de

Visit more than 1,000 museums


and galleries in London, many
of which are free.

Go for a run or relax in


one of Londons 3,000
parks and open spaces.
See a football, rugby, tennis or cricket
match at world-famous venues, or take
advantage of the facilities at the Queen
Elizabeth Olympic Park, just three
Underground stops from campus.

Take a walk along the River Thames and see many of


the capitals top tourist attractions including the Tower
of London and Tower Bridge, St Pauls Cathedral, and
Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament.
Experience the very best of world
cuisine, from Chinatown and
Brick Lane to market stalls and
the latest pop-up restaurants.

A premiere shopping destination: Westfield


Shopping Centre in Stratford and the flagship stores
of Oxford Street are less than 15 minutes away,
while the eclectic Spitalfields Market is also nearby.

All students

Newcastle University London


+44 207 059 4400
The Welcome Desk is open Monday to Friday
from 8.00am to 9.00pm.

There are a number of arrangements you


will need to have in place before you arrive.

It is advisable to keep copies of the following


documents in a safe place, and send an email
of scanned copies to yourself so that you can
access them in an emergency:

Preparing to become a student:


one to three months before
you come to London
If you are a non-European student, have you

passport
entry clearance documents
confirmation of place letter and CAS number
accommodation contract
vaccination certificates.

received your CAS number so that you can


apply for your student visa?

Do you know what the fees are


for your course?

How much money you will need


for general living costs?

Have you booked an airport pickup?

If not, do you know how to get to your


accommodation?

Do you have a disability, and if so, have

you contacted the Student Services team


for advice?

Preparing for living in the UK


Have you booked your accommodation
and paid your deposit?

Have you reviewed and accepted


your accommodation contract?
Have you packed some warm clothes?
Have you packed an adaptor plug so you
can use your electrical items in the UK?
(UK plugs are 3 pin, not 2 pin.)

Do you have all your original qualifications


and certificates and certified translations
into English?

Health

Have you obtained a tuberculosis (TB)


certificate? Check www.ukvisas.gov.uk
to see if this is required.

Do you have a short medical history that


will help when you register with a doctor
in the UK?

Have you had a check-up at your dentist?


This is advisable as dental treatment in
the UK can be expensive.

Preparing your finances


Have you checked whether you need

permission to transfer money to the UK?

Emergency number (24-hour)


+44 7850 930 394

Out of office hours for emergency use only.

Emergency services: police,


fire brigade or ambulance service
999

If you are unfortunate enough to experience


crime you should report it to the police and
University.

Addison Lee taxi service


+44 844 800 6677

National Health Service


www.nhs.uk

NHS Hotline for non-urgent


medical issues: 111

Have you obtained a letter from your doctor

Have you checked whether your own


government has restrictions on the amount
of money you can take out of your country?

If you are a European student have you got

Have you investigated whether you can

Preparing to travel
Do you have a valid passport?
Have you obtained any necessary student

Do you have a bank letter or reference

British Council

Do you wish or need to apply for a credit

www.britishcouncil.org

Have you bought your travel tickets

Have you arranged travel and personal

Do you have extra photos of yourself (we

Have you ordered British currency for


your immediate arrival expenses?
(We suggest a maximum of 600800.)

UK weather information

Do you have appropriate currency for any

International Student Calculator?

for any prescribed drugs you may need to


bring with you?

your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)?

visa/entry clearance for study in the UK?


and travel insurance?

suggest you bring at least four)

Have you made all the necessary


arrangements for any family, if they
are travelling with you?
Do you know how many bags and the

weight of baggage allowed by your airline?


This is worth checking as the policy varies
between airlines. Please remember you can
buy things here in the UK too; you dont
have to bring everything you own with you!
Put labels on your luggage with your name
and address in your home country and the
address of your accommodation in London.

open a bank account at home that you


can use in the UK?
from your home bank?

card (if you dont already have one)?


insurance?

small purchases, such as snacks during


airport changes (for example, Euros for
Amsterdam Airport)?

International students

UK Visas and Immigration


www.gov.uk/visas-immigration
www.educationuk.org

UKCISA advice for international


students
www.ukcisa.org.uk/student
www.bbc.co.uk/weather

www.studentcalculator.org.uk/international

Keep in touch
www.twitter.com/NewcastleUniLDN
www.facebook.com/NewcastleUniLondon
www.instagram.com/NewcastleUniLDN

35
International student

34

International
student checklist

Key contact details

st informati
on
late
e
h
t

do

Fo
r

Cheicnke
Onl
ww

.ncl.ac.uk

/l

on

For more information

T: 020 7059 4400


E: newcastlelondon@ncl.ac.uk

www.twitter.com/NewcastleUniLDN
www.facebook.com/NewcastleUniLondon

Through innovative partnerships with leading universities,


we expand opportunities for higher education, ensuring success
and transforming the lives of our students and staff.
Newcastle University London, August 2015. All content published in this document is believed accurate
at time of publication. INTO reserves the right to alter details of all aspects of its operation without notice.

NUL_STUDENT GUIDE_3373

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