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CONTACT US
Tel: +44 (0)1243 812146
Email: international@chi.ac.uk
#CHIUNI
BE SUPPORTED
BE PREPARED
BE YOU
Teaching
Excellence
Framework
chi.ac.uk International Pre-Arrival Guide 2020
Top Tip:
To make the most of this booklet, you can click on the
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Contents
Pre-Arrival
Welcome by the International Team 4
What do I do now? 6
What about tuition fees? 8
What funding is available for me? 10
Do I need a visa to come to the UK? 12
Visa and EU Settlement Scheme Information 14
The Duties of a Student on a Tier 4 Student Visa 15
Immigration Control 16
Where is the University of Chichester? 18
Campus Maps 20
Travelling 24
Arrival
Arrival 26
Orientation Programme for International and EU Students 28
What about Language Support? 29
Student Support & Wellbeing 30
Where will I live? 32
What about Money? 36
Can I work while I am a student? 38
What about health care? 42
Further information 44
What can I do in my spare time? 50
Is it easy to make friends? 54
Students' Union Welcome 56
Top tips from our international students 58
Useful contact details 60
Checklists
Check lists to help you prepare 62
2 # C H I U N I +44 (0)1243 812146 | international@chi.ac.uk | chi.ac.uk/international 3
Welcome
Dear International Student,
We are delighted that you are considering the University of Chichester as your
destination for study. We also recognise that moving to a new country and city
to study, far from home, can be a daunting process, especially if you have a lot
of questions to ask. We want your experience of studying in the UK to be an
enjoyable and rewarding one, and by answering as many of your questions as we
can in this helpful guide, we hope that we can help to make the transition to the
University of Chichester, a smooth process.
If you find that some of your questions are not answered by reading this
handbook, you are welcome to contact us directly. We will be happy to
respond to individual queries.
We look forward to welcoming you to the University of Chichester.
The International Team
Key Contact Details
Päivi Leivo and Jane Smith, International Student Advisory Service
Tel: +44 (0)1243 812146
Email: international@chi.ac.uk
www.chi.ac.uk/international
Rachel Enticknap Bickford-Smith, Head of International Recruitment and Relations
Tel: +44 (0)1243 816428
Email: global@chi.ac.uk
www.chi.ac.uk/international
Päivi Leivo Jane Smith Rachel Enticknap
Bickford-Smith
4 # C H I U N I +44 (0)1243 812146 | international@chi.ac.uk | chi.ac.uk/international 5
What do I do now?
Your next steps depend on Erasmus and International Undergraduate and postgraduate
We recommend that you give yourself as much time
as possible to make sure you receive your visa in time
what type of degree/studies Exchange Programmes degree students to travel. You must arrive for the start of your
orientation programme/induction week and not
you are coming to do at the later. For further information on visas please visit
If you are an Erasmus or international exchange I have a conditional offer – what do I
University of Chichester. student you should remain in contact with our
the visa information section on our website.
Exchange and Erasmus Team and your need to do next? Some International Applicants (non-UK/non-EU)
Please be assured that whichever category you programme coordinator at your home institution to may have a right to “Home Fees” status. To find out
belong to, the International Student Advisory make sure that everything is in place for your Having a conditional offer means that the University
about the fee status rules please visit the UKCISA
Service can help you if you have any questions arrival. requires further evidence e.g. you might be asked for
website.
about studying and living in the UK and we are your previous qualifications, proof of English
happy to provide immigration advice if you require language level or references.
EU/EEA and Swiss Applicants
a visa to come to the UK. If you have been assessed as having “Home Fees”
Postgraduate research students When we have received any requested certificates or
status and have received a conditional offer then you
(MPhil/PhD) references, your place at University of Chichester is
need to refer to any instructions mentioned in your
confirmed. You can then start to organise your
offer letter. When we have received any requested
International Short Programme accommodation.
certificates or references, your place at University of
If you are coming to the University as a postgraduate
Courses research student you should remain in contact with Chichester is confirmed.
International Applicants
our Postgraduate Support Team and your main If you have been assessed as having “International
If you are coming to the University on a short course supervisor to make sure that you are making all the Fees” status and have received a conditional offer for I have an unconditional offer – what
please remain in contact with the International necessary arrangements for your time of study. an undergraduate or postgraduate degree you will do I need to do next?
Short Programme Unit (ISPU). The staff at need to do the following to confirm your place at the
ISPU will make sure that all the arrangements are University: Having an unconditional offer means that the
made for your arrival. You must check if you need a University does not require further evidence from
visa to study in the UK and what type of visa would • Send any additional certificates/transcripts/ you to prove that you meet the entry criteria. If you
be best for your situation. references as required and stated as conditions in have not yet done so, you should formally accept
your offer letter. your place.
• Pay a deposit of £2,000 towards tuition fees.
Pre-Sessional Summer The Applicant Information Portal on our
If you need a Tier 4 (General) visa in order to study website displays all the information that is relevant to
Programme in the UK, you will also need a Confirmation of you. Enter your applicant number and date of birth
Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from us – You can and then you can view information about all
All of our Pre-Sessional English programmes are receive your CAS once you have met the conditions correspondence sent to you. Your induction
being delivered online for Summer 2020. If you wish of your offer and your status is upgraded to programme & registration timetables etc. will be
to apply for either the 5 or 10 week programme you unconditional. available on the Portal before the start of the term.
will need to contact Admissions@chi.ac.uk. If We suggest you access this portal regularly to help
you have already applied and have a place the IES The University can issue the CAS up to 3 months you prepare for your studies at the University of
team will be in contact shortly with enrolment and before your course starts. The Admissions team Chichester.
timetable information should automatically start issuing CAS’s in June/July
for eligible students but if you do not hear from us
you can contact the Admissions Department.
6 # C H I U N I +44 (0)1243 812146 | international@chi.ac.uk | chi.ac.uk/international 7
What about tuition fees?
In light of the current Covid 19 situation and the
How much do I have to pay? uncertainty that surrounds it for students planning to
study abroad in September 2020, we have made
An overview of the fees for all of our degree courses adjustments to our refund policy.
is available on our website.
If you accept the offer and pay a tuition fee deposit of
£2,000 to confirm your place, this deposit is normally
How is my fee status assessed? non-refundable. However, please rest assured that if
you are unable to take up your place at Chichester due
When you apply to study at the University of to government restrictions relating to the COVID-19
Chichester the admissions team will assess your fees. pandemic your deposit will be refunded in full.
You will be assessed as either an international fee
payer or home/EU fee payer. You can find the
assessment criteria on the UKCISA website. If you How do I pay my tuition fees?
feel that you have been incorrectly assessed, please
contact the International Student Advisory
Before you start your studies, we will send you an
Service for advice on the national fees regulations
email asking you to pre-register onto your course. As
and how they might apply to your case.
part of this process you will be asked to tell us how
you would like to pay your tuition fees.
How do I pay my deposit? You can choose to pay your fees in 2 instalments and
a payment plan for this can be set via Chiview
International fee payers must pay a £2000 deposit (student portal). In order to make a payment plan
before the study offer can be made unconditional you need to have a debit/credit card.
and before a CAS (for visa application) can be issued.
We recommend that you pay your deposit via our You can also make payments using the online store
online store or by bank transfer (BACS). or bank transfer option before or after your arrival at
the university (see above table).
Online Store
https://store.chi.ac.uk/product-catalogue/ The first instalment is due once you have enrolled for
international/deposits-and-payments your programme, and the second instalment will be
due at the start of your second semester.
Bank transfer
Account Name: The University of Chichester Please note that we cannot accept large cash
Account Number: 12175142 payments towards tuition or accommodation fees. Fee Sponsorships Who can I contact regarding my
Sort Code: 40-17-16
Bank Name: HSBC UK deposit or fee payment?
For more information please visit our website. If your tuition fees are being paid by your
Bank Address: 94 East Street, Chichester,
West Sussex PO19 1HD government, employer, or other sponsoring body, You can email our finance team if you need
If you are in receipt of Student Finance England you must show a formal letter or complete our
IBAN no: GB10 HBUK 4017 1612 1751 42 assistance with paying your fees. They can also take
Funding (EU/EEA & UK students) for undergraduate Sponsorship Agreement form at course registration.
Swift Code: HBUKGB4B credit and debit card payments over the phone if you
studies your fees will be paid directly to the
are unable to use the online options.
Please quote your student number as the payment University. Our finance team can help you with any questions
reference you may have regarding these documents.
8 # C H I U N I +44 (0)1243 812146 | international@chi.ac.uk | chi.ac.uk/international 9
What funding is available for me?
Funding for EU/EEA and Swiss Funding for US nationals
students (FAFSA)
Funding We are recognised by the United States Government
EU/EEA and Swiss nationals & family members are for the purposes of Federal Student Loans: US
normally eligible to apply for UK government funding national students studying at the University of
– this can be a tuition fee loan and/or student Chichester are able to obtain Federal funding for
support, depending on your circumstances. their studies. See our Financial Aid section on
our website for more information on the eligibility
Student Finance England have confirmed that criteria and our application process.
students starting their studies in England in the
2020/2021 academic year will continue to pay the
same EU/UK tuition fees and remain eligible for What about scholarships?
undergraduate and postgraduate loans for the
duration of their degree.
It is not easy to find scholarships, especially for
undergraduate study, and there is a lot of
Undergraduate students may be eligible to apply
competition for funds. You are advised to contact the
for a UK tuition fee loan. In some cases a loan to
Ministry of Education or Education Department in
cover your living costs may also be available.
your own country first, as they may have details of
For more information and to check your eligibility
scholarship opportunities for students who want to
please visit Student Finance England website.
study abroad. The British Council also holds
information about funding and the cost of living in the
Postgraduate students who meet the criteria are
UK. The UK Council for International
eligible to apply for a postgraduate study loan –
Student Affairs has a lot of useful information on
Master’s loan or postgraduate doctoral loan. Please
scholarships and budgeting on their website.
check Student Finance England for more
information on these options.
The University of Chichester offers scholarships for
gifted athletes. To find out more, please visit the
For a full overview of the rights for EU/EEA and
Gifted Athlete section of our website for the
Swiss students and their family members visit the
eligibility criteria.
Student Finance England and UKCISA
websites.
If you have applied for a UK student loan, you will
need to bring evidence of this when you register
onto your course.
What support is available in 2021/2022?
Students starting studies in 2021/2022 should check
the latest information on the UKCISA website.
10 # C H I U N I +44 (0)1243 812146 | international@chi.ac.uk | chi.ac.uk/international 11
Do I need a visa to come to the UK? EU/EEA countries and Nationals from all other Switzerland countries If you are a national from an EU/EEA country or If you have a permission to remain in the UK for Switzerland (or if you are a family member of an some reason other than being a student (e.g. EU/EEA/Swiss national), there are currently no indefinite leave to remain, dependant visa, refugee restrictions on your right to study and work in the status, work visa…) then you do not need a student UK. However, the UK’s exit from the EU on 31st visa. For details of all immigration categories please January 2020 will result in various changes after the visit the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) transition period ends on 31st December 2020. website. Students arriving in the UK during the transition If you do not already have a permission to remain in period can apply to the EU settlement scheme in the UK, you must apply for a Student Visa to study at order to remain and access services in the UK. the University of Chichester. To help you understand If you arrive in the UK after the transition period what type of visa you require, Tier 4 or Short-term ends on 31st December 2020, you will need to apply student visa, please refer to our “Which Visa?” for a permission (visa) to enter the UK. More Flowchart on our website. information on this will be available on the UK government website. We would recommend that you check the UK government and the UKCISA websites for the latest developments and information on the rights of the EU/EEA/Swiss nationals in the UK. 12 # C H I U N I +44 (0)1243 812146 | international@chi.ac.uk | chi.ac.uk/international 13
Visa and EU settlement The duties of a student
scheme information on a Tier 4 Student Visa
Students holding a Tier 4 Student Visa are Report any change of circumstance to the
Visa information required by law to fulfil certain criteria and Home Office. Changes you should report
Useful Websites have specific duties: are as follows:
It is important that you understand UK immigration • Provide the University with a copy of your • Changes to your personal details
regulations and how they may impact on you. Due to UKCISA – Student Immigration current passport and visa/Biometric Residence • Criminal convictions that you have not
frequent changes to immigration rules, please our Information Permit. Every time you get a new passport or a previously told the Home Office about
visa information webpages for the most up to visa you must provide copies to the University. • Changes in your contact details
date information. UK Visas And Immigration – Student Without this (or proof that our CAS has been • Changes in your family members’ details, if they
Visas used to apply for a visa) you will not be able to are in the UK as your dependants and
You can find information on the following topics: British Council – Visa Information register on your programme. • Any other information you think the Home
• Register / re-register on your programme three Office should know,
• Do I need a visa? times a year.
• How to apply for a Tier 4 visa? • Keep the University updated with your UK The University also has specific duties in
• How to apply for a Short-term study visa? contact details. You will be able to do this via relation to students on Student Visas that
• How to extend my Tier 4 visa? our student portal, Chiview they are required by law to fulfil:
• What to do if my visa is refused? • Keep the University updated if you decide to • We are obliged to report to the Home Office
• Latest immigration news and FAQs change your course, withdraw or suspend your any student who either does not enrol or who
• How do I collect my Biometric Residence Permit studies via the appropriate University processes. misses 10 expected contacts with tutors or in
(BRP)? • Study whilst you are in the UK, ensuring that class.
• How do I register with the Police? you meet the progression and attendance • We also have to report any student who defers
requirements for your course with no or leaves a course, or if we stop being the
unauthorised absences. student’s sponsor.
EU Settlement Scheme • Ensure you do not breach the conditions of If you have any questions regarding any of the
your visa: above points you are welcome to contact the
If you are an EU, EEA or Swiss citizen or a relevant • Do not work more hours than you should. International Student Advisory Service.
family member and you are already in the UK (or will Students studying at degree level or above are
be here by 31st December 2020) and you wish to allowed to work 20 h/week during term time
stay in the UK after the transition period ends– you and full time during vacations. Students studying
and your family members will need to apply to the
EU Settlement Scheme. The deadline for application
at below degree level are allowed to work 10 h/
week during term time and full time during
Useful Websites
is 30th June 2021. If you arrive in the UK after the vacations.
transition period ends, you will need to apply for a • Make sure you register with the Police, if How to report change of circumstance
visa to study in the UK (see above links for required, and update your Police Registration to the Home Office
information). Certificate within 7 days of any change to your Tier 4 conditions explained
circumstances. Your visa/Biometric Residence
Please check our website for more information on Permit will state if this is required. Work and Tier 4 Students
the settlement scheme and the application process. • Do not claim public funds. This means that you Police Registration in Sussex
cannot claim certain welfare benefits and local
authority housing.
14 # C H I U N I +44 (0)1243 812146 | international@chi.ac.uk | chi.ac.uk/international 15
Immigration control
Next you pass through customs control. There are
What happens at immigration three channels to choose from:
control at the airport?
Blue: Arrivals from the European
Blue Union (EU) with nothing to declare.
When you arrive in Britain, you will first pass
through immigration control. The Immigration
Officer will check your passport and your Green: if you have nothing to
Green
permission to enter the UK. declare (no more than the permitted
duty-free or tax-free allowances).
If you are from outside the EEA you should be
prepared to show evidence of your studies, Red: if you have goods to declare
finances and where you are going to stay. If you are Red (over the permitted duty free or tax
refused entry, or given a very short period of free allowance).
temporary admission, you should get help
immediately from, the International Student Please check with the British Embassy if you are
advisers at the University, or the Immigration not sure what goods you can bring to the UK.
Advisory Service. For telephone numbers, see the Some food items may be prohibited.
list at the back of this handbook.
UK airports are in a process of introducing eGates
at immigration control. These can be used by
citizens of Australia, Canada, Japan USA, New
Zealand, Singapore and South Korea. If you are a
non-visa national (e.g. USA, Japan, Canada…) and
are planning to apply for a short-term student
permission on arrival, please avoid eGates as you
will need to speak to Border Officer to get a
correct Short-term Student stamp in your
passport.
16 # C H I U N I +44 (0)1243 812146 | international@chi.ac.uk | chi.ac.uk/international 17
Where is the University
of Chichester?
The University of Chichester is situated on the south coast of England, in the county of
West Sussex. It is based on two sites, one in Bognor Regis and one in Chichester,
about 7 miles (11 km) apart.
The University is 90 minutes by train from London and one hour from Gatwick airport.
Set in an area of natural beauty, the location provides opportunities for sea, sport Edinburgh
and leisure activities.
Glasgow
Both campuses are within easy walking distance of the train stations. There is also
transport between the two sites, with buses running regular intervals. The journey
between the two sites takes approximately 20 minutes.
Belfast
Manchester
Central London
Liverpool
Heathrow Airport Birmingham
M25
M3
Cardiff London
Gatwick Airport Dover
Chichester
Calais
Southampton Brighton
Southampton Airport A286 A272 Portsmouth Bognor Regis
A29 A23
M27 A3
M27 A3(M) Chichester
Southampton A27
Le Havre
Brighton Cherbourg
Portsmouth Paris
Bognor Regis
18 # C H I U N I +44 (0)1243 812146 | international@chi.ac.uk | chi.ac.uk/international 19Campus maps P
Car Park
Entrance
Bognor Regis Campus PO21 1HR
Car Park
Entrance
P D 3
2 1
P D
10
7 8
9
4 5
6
or Road
Upper Bogn
11
1 Learning Resource Centre, Support and Information Zone (SIZ) 7 Students' Union (The Hub)
P Parking
2 Student Support Services 8 Otters Restaurant (Dining Hall) D Disabled Parking
3 John Parry Centre 9 Barbara Smith Halls/Accommodation Reception
4 Assembly Theatre 10 Tech Park
5 The Dome 11 Bus stop
6 Music and Dance Studio (St Michaels' House)
20 # C H I U N I +44 (0)1243 812146 | international@chi.ac.uk | chi.ac.uk/international 21Campus maps
Bishop Otter Campus, Chichester
PO19 6PE
1 Learning Resource Centre, Support and Information Zone (SIZ)
2 Bus stop
P 3 Academic Building
17 15 4 Cloisters Lawn
5 Cloisters Corridor
D
6 Students’ Union Shop
13
7 Dance Studios
16
8 Theatre Studios
14 9 The ShowRoom
10 Otters Restaurant
11 11 The Chapel
12 Tudor Hale Centre for Sport
13 Sports Dome
12 14 New Hall
8 Music
18 9 10 15
16 Accommodation Office
7 17 artOne
6 18 Students’ Union and Zee Bar
P
5
3 P Parking
4 Disabled Parking
D
1 2
D
Pedestrian entrance
Main entrance
22 # C H I U N I +44 (0)1243 812146 | international@chi.ac.uk | chi.ac.uk/international 23Travelling
If you are buying a return travel ticket to the UK, do Travelling from Heathrow Travelling from Gatwick COACH
not plan to return home before the end of exams.
You may have an exam on the last day of the Airport Airport Chichester: The National Express coach takes
semester or a resit exam, so check the semester about 1 hour and 20 minutes. You can get a taxi
dates on our website before booking your flights. TRAIN TRAIN from Chichester train station to your final
destination in the city.
Chichester: you will need to take either the Chichester: There is a direct train to Chichester
Bognor Regis: There are no direct coaches to
How do I travel to the underground (Piccadilly line and then change to from the airport. The journey takes about 1 hour.
Victoria line) or Heathrow express train into You can get a taxi from Chichester train station to Bognor Regis from Gatwick airport.
University of Chichester?
central London. Trains to Chichester depart from your final destination in the city.
London Victoria Station and take about 1 h 30 TAXI
The University of Chichester has two campuses: minutes. You can get a taxi from Chichester train Bognor Regis: There is a direct train to Bognor Do not take an airport taxi as this could cost more
Bishop Otter Campus in Chichester and Bognor station to your final destination in the city. Regis from the airport. The journey is about 1 hour than £200. If you decide to take a taxi, we
Regis Campus. You should make sure you know and 15 minutes long. You can get a taxi from recommend you contact a local taxi company in
which campus you will based at. Bognor Regis: you will need to take either the Bognor Regis train station to your final destination advance, to avoid expensive taxis from the airport.
underground (Piccadilly line and then change to in the town.
Information on both campuses is available on our Victoria line) or Heathrow express train into
website. central London. Trains to Bognor Regis depart
from London Victoria Station and take about 2
London has two main airports – Gatwick and hours. You can get a taxi from Bognor Regis train
Heathrow – both have coach and train stations. station to your final destination in the town.
Gatwick has direct trains to Bognor Regis and
Chichester and it is closer to the South Coast than COACH
Heathrow, so if you have a choice, it will be more
convenient for you to fly to Gatwick. Chichester: National Express coaches take about
3hours 30 minutes and you will probably have to
Both airports have information desks, where you change coach at Gatwick Airport or Portsmouth.
can ask for travel information and directions to
trains and bus stops. Bognor Regis: There are no direct coaches to
Bognor Regis from Heathrow airport. From
If you are coming to Chichester or Bognor Regis Heathrow it is best to go to Gatwick airport by
through an airport other than Heathrow and coach and then take the train from Gatwick to
Gatwick please get in touch with us if you need Bognor Regis.
information on how to travel to the University.
TAXI
Do not take an airport taxi as this could cost over
£200. If you decide to take a taxi, we recommend
you contact a local taxi company in advance, to
avoid expensive taxis from the airport.
24 # C H I U N I +44 (0)1243 812146 | international@chi.ac.uk | chi.ac.uk/international 25Arrival
What do I do when I first arrive? What if I don’t know
Useful Websites where to go? Top Tip
First of all, you will want to find your
It is important that you tell us your arrival
accommodation, so that you can settle in. Make Applicant Portal
If you are not sure where to go on your first day, details, so that we know when to expect
sure that you know where to go and at what time
International Orientation 2020/2021 please go to the man reception at our Learning you and can support you in case of any
you can arrive, so that someone is expecting you.
Resource Centre. The staff at the Support and difficulties. Please complete our
Information for Pre-sessional Information Zone (SIZ) will be able to assist International Arrivals’ form online. You can
We recommend that you arrive during the arrivals’ Students 2020/2021 you. You can find the SIZ opening hours and find it on our website under Orientation
weekend organised by the University and the
contact details our website. information.
Students’ Union in September. If you start your
studies before or after the September arrivals’
weekend, you should plan to arrive on a working
day during normal office hours. You should also find out which campus you need to Pre-registration & registration
go to: Bognor Regis or Bishop Otter
It is a good idea to move into your accommodation (Chichester) Campus.
a day or two before your programme starts, so Before you start your studies, we will send you an
that you can have some rest before you attend If you are an International top-up student, email asking you to pre-register onto your course.
your orientation and induction events. Our MA/MSc, PhD/MPhil or an exchange/study You will need to complete this online process
accommodation team would be happy to amend abroad student and due to start your programme before we can fully register you in- person.
your accommodation booking dates if you wish to at a different point of the year e.g. end of
arrive a couple of days before your September, October, January or February, make Your Orientation or Induction Programme will tell
accommodation contract is due to start. sure you check your offer and welcome letters for you where you need to go to register in-person
information on the induction, orientation and and what documents to bring with you. You will
welcome arrangements. receive your Student card at the registration event.
What happens when I arrive at You MUST bring the following documents
the University? with you:
• International students: Your passport, visa and
Make sure you know when your Orientation, visa decision letter (if you have one)
Induction or Registration Programme starts so that • EU/EEA students: EU ID card or passport
you can plan your arrival. You can check your • Your original qualifications you used to obtain
Induction programme details via the applicant your offer to study at Chichester (Tier 4
portal and International Orientation information students can find a list of qualification on their
can be accessed on our website. CAS “evidence used to obtain offer” section on
page 2)
• Evidence of how you are going to pay your fees
(SFE loan letter, US loan confirmation etc.)
26 # C H I U N I +44 (0)1243 812146 | international@chi.ac.uk | chi.ac.uk/international 27Orientation programme for What about language
international and EU students support?
We have a special Orientation We plan to provide you opportunities to: All International students are able to enrol on our
International Academic & Language support
Programme for all new • Get to know other international and EU students; (IALs).
• Get to know key University members of staff;
International and EU students. • Learn more about the structure of the University This package of support will help you adapt to life in
and your Programme; a new country, ease the transition into UK Higher
This programme can take place before the subject • Learn about our dedicated support for Education, offer academic and language support (if
inductions or it can be integrated into your induction international and EU students; English is not your first language) and help you
programme. • Ask any questions you have about academic life as achieve your best throughout your course.
well as social and everyday life at Chichester.
All international and EU students should attend the Specifically, and at no extra cost, the package offers
Orientation events/activities as they are designed to Check our Orientation website for more you:
help you settle into your new life and studies in the information on the different Orientation events and
UK. activities in 2020/2021. • Tutorial support of up to 3 hours per student per
semester, to help you improve your academic
English and other academic skills and to help you
plan, carry out and check your coursework;
• Weekly classes in English Language Studies
• Additional time and the use of bilingual
dictionaries in seen examinations;
• A point of contact if you need advice or are not
sure where to go;
• On-going contact and social opportunities with
other international and EU students;
• Access to dedicated Moodle resources
Academic Skills Advisor
In addition to IALs support, you will also be able to
attend workshops on different aspects of study skills
such as improving your reading, writing and exam
preparation skills. This support is open to all students
through our Academic Skills Advisor.
28 # C H I U N I +44 (0)1243 812146 | international@chi.ac.uk | chi.ac.uk/international 29Student Support & Wellbeing
helping with your immigration queries or dealing with
Where can I get help? personal problems. Visit the International
Student Support section on our website to find
The Support and Information Zone (SIZ) out more.
located at the Learning Resource Centres at both
campuses, is your first point of contact for all your You can also contact UK Council for
questions and concerns. The SIZ team will do their International Student Affairs (UKCISA) for a
best to assist you or they can refer you to the correct range of advice including immigration, Brexit, fees
service. and wellbeing.
Personal tutors What should I do if I have a
As a student at the University, you will have your disability or an additional
own personal tutor to advise you on academic
matters relating to your course. Your tutor will be learning requirement?
allocated to you during your first week of studies.
Student Support & Wellbeing We are committed to providing facilities and services
to meet the requirements of students with a wide
The Student Support & Wellbeing range of needs. Here are some examples: dyslexia,
department is available to support you throughout visual and hearing impairments, mobility impairments,
your studies at Chichester. Services offered include mental health issues, Asperger’s syndrome, chronic
general/personal advice, support for different faiths medical conditions e.g. diabetes, epilepsy, asthma.
(religion), counselling, disability support, mental
health advice and general health and academic skills We strongly recommend that you contact the
advice. Disability Support Team to discuss what support
you might need. All personal information will be
• Student Health treated as strictly confidential and will not affect the
• Uinmind – Mental Health Advice Service decision about your eligibility for the course.
• UTalk – Counselling Service
• Student Wellbeing Adviser Team If you have a disability or any additional need for
• Chaplaincy which you require support or special arrangements
• Disability Support Team please let us know in advance, so that we can help
• Student Money Advice you plan your time here with us.
International Student Advisers (ISAs)
Päivi Leivo and Jane Smith, are part of the Student
Support & Wellbeing department and are here to
help international and EU students settle into life in
the UK. You will meet us at the orientation event or
your induction event at the beginning of your studies.
We can assist you with a range of matters including
practical advice on any aspect of living in the UK to
30 # C H I U N I +44 (0)1243 812146 | international@chi.ac.uk | chi.ac.uk/international 31Where will I live?
It is essential that you feel happy have washing and toilet facilities along the corridor.
Living in halls of residence during term-time can be
and comfortable wherever you fun if you want to integrate with other students.
Please be aware, however, that since the
are living, as this will affect your accommodation is shared blocks with other students,
ability to study and enjoy your it is not always quiet.
time in England. Most halls of residence are catered, which means
that you have a daily credit of around £8 a day
You should remember that accommodation in the (Monday to Friday) and £4 a day (Saturday and
UK might be different from what you are used to and Sunday) to spend in the restaurants and cafes at both
it might take a little time for you to adjust. The type campuses. Small kitchens are available for making
of accommodation you are offered will depend on drinks and snacks. Bishop Otter Campus has some
the length and type of course you are doing. accommodation options with self-catering (e.g.
Stockbridge & Fishbourne, Havenstoke). Every room
If you are coming to the university on a pre-sessional comes with internet connection and you can connect
course in June or August you should see our to the University Wi-Fi (eduroam) on campus.
pre-sessional accommodation information
for full details on your options for the duration this Cost: approx. £118.23 – £177.17 per week.
course.
The contract must be signed for the full academic
year. However, exchange students staying for one
Halls of residence on campus semester are able to sign a contract to cover a
(university accommodation) shorter period.
Check our website for more information on the
Each student has a study bedroom with a single bed, different halls of residence options available.
desk and wardrobe space. Some rooms have their
own toilet/shower room (en-suite). Standard rooms
32 # C H I U N I +44 (0)1243 812146 | international@chi.ac.uk | chi.ac.uk/international 33Contact the accommodation team before your
Renting privately Which option should I choose? arrival to request a pack for your room.
Private home Choosing your accommodation can be a difficult task If you are due to start your studies in January or if
Living in a private home means that you live in especially if you are outside the UK. In general, we you are an exchange or study abroad student, you
somebody’s home but on a more independent basis. would recommend university-owned, or private should email our accommodation team directly to
This option is mainly available in the Bognor Regis home accommodation initially (when you first enquire about the application process.
area with a very limited availability in Chichester. This arrive).
is usually under a self-catering arrangement which
means you would be given access to the kitchen to You can find more information on things to consider Electrical equipment
prepare your own meals. when choosing on your accommodation option on
the International Student Support section on In the UK, electrical appliances run on 240 volts, 50
Cost: approx. £80 – £110 per week without meals. our website. Topics include: UK-based guarantors, Hz AC. If you want to bring electrical equipment,
right-to-rent checks, contract lengths, council tax please check to make sure that it is compatible. If you
Shared housing exemptions etc. need an adapter, it is best to buy it before you leave
Another option for off-campus accommodation is home, if you buy some electrical appliances once you
living in a shared house with other students. If you are not certain which type of accommodation have arrived in the UK, then you will not need an
We have a dedicated website that allows you to look would be best for you, please contact the adapter to run them. If you are bringing a computer
for university-accredited private accommodation in Accommodation Office. They can help you and would like to make sure your equipment is
Chichester and Bognor Regis. Our Private Sector choose the option most suited to your needs. compatible, please email the helpdesk. Please note
Housing Officer can provide advice on housing and that any heat emitting electrical appliances such as
accessing this website. You need to contact the rice cookers, hairdryers and hair straighteners should
owner yourself and make your own arrangements When and how do I apply for
not be used with adapters.
with them. Normally, you would have to sign a 12- halls of residence
month contract and will be required to provide a UK-
accommodation?
based guarantor. Usually, you would share the house
with other students and be responsible for your own
bills. However, some landlords will include the bills in If you have accepted your study offer at the
the rent. University of Chichester, you will be contacted
around May with information on how to apply for Top Tip:
The University cannot accept any responsibility for university accommodation via the accommodation
any legal contracts you enter into, so be careful portal. Check our website for more information Yumika, BA in Tourism Management, Japan
before signing any agreements with private landlords on the application process. Consider of your accommodation options
and seek advice if you have any queries. carefully! There is a free intersite campus
As an international student you are guaranteed a bus between the two campuses, so you can Useful Websites
Cost: approx. £70 – £110 per week (plus bills) for a room in the halls of residence, as long as you apply choose to live in Chichester and study in
single room in a shared house. for a room by 1st August and you firmly accept your Bognor Regis or vice versa. For me it was University of Chichester
study place at the University. important to be able to cook my own food, Accommodation options
For advice on finding a private home or shared so I chose to live in one of the off-campus
You will also be entitled to a free bedding pack, which UK Council for International
housing, please contact the Accommodation (self-catered) halls of residence options in
includes pillows, a duvet, sheets, pillowcases, duvet Student Affairs
Office. Chichester and travel to Bognor Regis
cover and towels. Campus for my lectures. Education UK
34 # C H I U N I +44 (0)1243 812146 | international@chi.ac.uk | chi.ac.uk/international 35What about money?
(ISAs). You can request this letter via the ISAs
Living expenses Moodle pages once you have fully registered onto
your course. In addition to the letter you will need Top Tips for managing
You are likely to need around £250 per week for your passport or EU identity card and your visa (if
you have one).
your money:
living costs (including rent and food). How much you
actually spend will depend on your needs and Apply for a NUS/TOTUM student
personal lifestyle. You can find more information on It is a good idea to do some research on UK banks
before committing to opening an account with one discount card to receive student discounts
additional costs and living expenses on our at shops, restaurants, cinemas etc.
website. of them. Some banks offer good deals while others
charge high fees for international students. You Download the MyUniDAys app to find
If you are a Tier 4 student, the UK Visas and should also consider how easy it is for you to visit the more student discounts.
Immigration expect you to have £1,015 per month bank, what services they offer in the branch or online
and whether there are any monthly or overdraft Walk, cycle or use the free intersite
for living costs.
charges you should be aware of. campus bus U7/U8 for travel.
Prepare your own packed lunch. You can
Here is a list of the major UK banks in the local area:
What about cash? use the microwaves on campus to heat your
Barclays, Halifax, HSBC, Lloyds, Santander,
food.
Natwest, The Royal Bank of Scotland,
We recommend that you have approximately £400- Nationwide Bring your own water bottle and refill it up
£450 (GBP) cash on arrival to the UK. Do not carry using the water fountains on campus.
more as it may get lost or stolen. It is best to open a
UK bank account as soon as possible and transfer
more funds electronically at a later date.
Online bank account
It might be a good idea to bring any other money in It is also possible to open an online bank account Useful Websites
the form of pre-paid travel cards, currency cards or with some specialist international student bank
traveller’s cheques. account providers e.g. the Aspire account with Student budget planner – Planning
Uni Zest. This type of bank account is fully online Your Budget whilst at University
If you are planning on using a non-UK debit or credit and you will need to pay a monthly management fee.
If you do not qualify for a standard bank account Money Advice Service – Budget
card, please contact your bank in advance to make
because your course is less than 6 months long, this Planner
sure you find out whether it is possible and if there
are any additional charges to be considered. type of account might be a good option for you. UKCISA – Bringing Money to the UK
British Council – Money and budgeting
Student Money Advice
Can I open a bank account?
If you need any help with managing your money
If you are in the UK for longer than 6 months, it is while studying in the UK our Money advisers are
possible for you to open a bank account. Money can here to guide you. They can help you with budget
then be transferred to your UK bank account from planning and money management and can explain
your home country. what financial help might be available to you.
To open a bank account, you will need a letter of
introduction from the International Student Advisers
36 # C H I U N I +44 (0)1243 812146 | international@chi.ac.uk | chi.ac.uk/international 37Can I work while I am a student?
If you are a dependant of a Tier 4 students who The NI number application is simple. You need to call
Who can I talk to about Can I work while I am a student? studying at the University of Chichester, you are the National Insurance Number helpline once
finding work in the UK? allowed to work. you are in the UK. They will ask you some questions
EU/EEA + Swiss nationals and family about your personal circumstances and you will
The Careers and Employability Team can help with members If you are in the UK on a short-term study visa, you either be invited to an interview or you will be asked
finding work or postgraduate study, developing If you are in the UK by 31st December 2020, you will are not allowed to work, volunteer or take part in to post some documents to verify your identity. If
connections and skills, going freelance or starting a not face any restrictions on your right to reside, work placements. you need any help with this the International Student
business. We’ll assist with searching for jobs, work, study or access health care in the UK. In order Advisers can assist you.
choosing a career, completing and sharpening an to keep these rights an application under the EU What if I am not sure if I am allowed to
application form or CV. settlement scheme must be made. work?
If you are not sure if you are allowed to work, please
Whether you’re seeking part time work, are If you arrive in the UK after 31st December 2020, contact the International Student Advisers and we
interested in volunteering or looking to brush up you will need to apply for an immigration permission can advise you. It is better to be certain of your right
your skillset, our Careers and Employability team and we assume that the permission will include work to work as it is a criminal offence to work if you do
have all the resources you need. Visit us at the restrictions similar Tier 4 visa holders. For more not have permission, or to work for more hours than
Careers Centre in Chichester, at the Careers Desk in information on this visa route please visit the UK those authorised by the government.
Bognor Regis and look out for our events on Visas and Immigration website.
campus.
What is the minimum wage
Tier 4 (General) visa holders
Careers guidance Tier 4 students studying at degree level or above can in the UK?
Professionally trained Careers Consultants can work up to 20 hours per week during term-time and
discuss any aspect of your career decisions, and work full-time during vacations. The hourly rate for the minimum wage depends on
with you to understand your ideas and develop your your age. You can see the regulations and current
skills to help you plan for your future. Tier 4 Students on courses below degree level (e.g. minimum wage rates on the UK government
Pre-Sessional course) can work up to 10 hours per website.
Job hunting support week during term-time and full-time during vacations.
Our south coast location makes it ideal to find work,
either full or part-time and we have the connections If you have been issued a CAS for a part-time degree How do I apply for a National
to help you. Our job-hunting service provides: at level RQF 7 or above, you are not allowed to Insurance Number?
• Finding part-time work and placements work, volunteer or take part in work placements.
• Checking and updating your CV
Your National Insurance (NI) number is your own
• Searching for graduate roles and schemes There are some restrictions in terms of what kind of
personal account number. It is unique to you and you
• Booking a Careers Guidance appointment work you can do as a Tier 4 student. Please check
keep the same one all your life. It makes sure that the
our website for more information on Tier 4 visa
NI contributions and tax you pay are properly
Whether you know exactly what you’d like to do and employment.
recorded against your name.
after university, or really don’t know where to start,
we are here to help you. For more information, Others, e.g. PBS dependants, ILR, Short-
Every person who works in the UK is assessed for
please visit the Careers and Employability term students, etc…
the amount of NI they have to pay. The amount
webpages. Your vignette/Biometric Residence Permit will tell
depends on how much you earn. If you are an
you if you are allowed to work or not.
international student and you have the right to work
in the UK you will need a National Insurance number
so that you can be assessed correctly.
38 # C H I U N I +44 (0)1243 812146 | international@chi.ac.uk | chi.ac.uk/international 39What about Income Tax?
Income tax is deducted from your pay by your
employer. Each employee has a personal allowance
which tells you how much you can earn before paying
tax. If your earnings are below your personal
allowance then you do not pay any tax. For more
information on income tax please visit the UK
government website. UKCISA also has a lot of
useful information on tax and NI.
Can I work in the UK after
my studies?
EU/EEA and Swiss students (and family members)
who have applied for a pre-settled or settled status
can continue to live and work in the UK without
restrictions. If you arrive in the UK after 31st
December 2020, you will need a permission to work.
Information regarding this will be available on the UK
Visas and Immigration website in due course.
If you are a Tier 4 student you can have a look at the
following options for staying in the UK to work:
• Post-study work visa option due to be
introduced in 2021.
• Tier 2 visa
• Tier 5 youth mobility visa
• Doctorate Extension Scheme (available for Useful Websites
Phd students)
UKCISA student blog ‘ A working
There may be other immigration routes available to definition’
your depending on your circumstances. You can
UKCISA – Tier 4 & work
contact the International Student Advisers for more
information. We can also refer you to an external Tier 4 Policy Guidance
immigration adviser in the local area. For more
information on working after your studies please visit Employer’s guide to right to work
the UKCISA website checks
Preventing illegal working
40 # C H I U N I +44 (0)1243 812146 | international@chi.ac.uk | chi.ac.uk/international 41What about health care?
with a bilateral healthcare agreement with the UK are
Nurse Health Advisers entitled to free National Health Service (NHS)
treatment until the transition period ends on 31st
While you are studying in the UK it is very important December 2020. EU/EEA nationals must apply for
to look after your health. The University has a an EHIC card before leaving home. For more
student Health Centre on both campuses where you information please visit the European
can access information. You can visit the Nurse Commission website.
Health Advisers there if you have any health
concerns. If you are an EU/EEA national (or a family member)
and have applied to stay in the UK under the EU
You can find the Nurse Health Advisers’ contact Settlement Scheme you will continue to have free
details and other useful information on our website. access to the NHS services.
Please inform the Nurse Health Advisers if you have Do I need private medical/travel insurance?
any pre-existing health problems or take regular Even if you can be treated by the NHS for most
medication that you will need during your stay (for health needs, the NHS does not cover all risks. You
example epilepsy or diabetes). should consider taking out a travel/medical insurance
before leaving your country of residence. Additional
On arrival in the UK it is important that you register insurance cover can be helpful in many situations e.g.
with a doctors’ (GP) practice. The Nurse Health if you fall ill and want to transported home for
Advisers can give advice and information of doctors treatment or if you want a family member to stay in
and surgeries near to your UK address. the UK to look after you. For example, Endsleigh
and Cover 4 Insurance offer specialist insurances
for international students in the UK.
Do I need medical insurance?
For students staying less than 6 months Useful Websites
If your course lasts less than six months, you should
take out medical insurance from a reputable THE UK COUNCIL FOR
company before leaving your country. Although INTERNATIONAL STUDENT
emergencies will be dealt with, no other treatment is AFFAIRS (UKCISA) WEBSITE
available to you unless you have insurance or can pay
for the treatment yourself. NURSE HEALTH ADVISERS’ –
STUDENT HEALTH WEBSITE
For students staying 6 months and over UK GOVERNMENT WEBSITE –
If you are applying for a visa to study in the UK for HEALTH SURCHARGE
more than 6 months you will pay a health surcharge
fee as part of your visa application process. The fee is UK GOVERNMENT WEBSITE – EU
currently £300 per year. By paying this fee you will SETTLEMENT SCHEME – YOUR
have access to the National Health Service (NHS). RIGHTS WITH PRE-SETTLED AND
SETTLED STATUS
Exception: Students from the EU/EEA or countries
42 # C H I U N I +44 (0)1243 812146 | international@chi.ac.uk | chi.ac.uk/international 43Further information
The most popular and the cheapest ways to
Do I need to register with What about religious needs?
the police?
Useful Websites communicate with family and friends is to use various
apps such as Whatsap, Wechat, Snapcat, Instagram,
The University of Chichester is an international place Skype, Line, Facetime, Messenger etc. whilst
Sussex Police Nationality Unit – Police connected to free Wifi!
All relevant foreign nationals are required to of education where you will find people of most
Registration Information
register with Sussex Police Nationality Unit. If you faiths and also those of none. We try in many ways
are unsure, you will need to check your visa which International Student Advisers – Visas to meet your particular needs in all areas of life, To find out about on campus Wifi and internet
will clearly show this registration as a condition of and Immigration section including religious belief and special dietary access (and IT in general) please visit our
your stay if it is required. requirements due to religious beliefs. We have a help pages.
chapel of worship and also rooms for individual
Police Registration is by appointment only, and prayer and meditation which are open to people of
organised centrally by Sussex Police Nationality Unit. all faiths. Please get in touch with our Chaplain who Will I get a student ID card?
Do not try to register at the local Police Station in the Which Campus will I be based at
would be happy to hear from you if you need
area where you are living. Please do not worry if you for my studies? someone to talk to or if you would like to find out All registered students receive a student ID card,
can’t register within 7 days of arrival – the more about local faith communities. which can be used to prove that you are a student.
department responsible for registration are very busy Knowing which campus your lectures and workshops The same ID card can be used to borrow books
and realise that this may be impossible. are based at is important when planning your travel from the library, access university buildings and travel
and booking your accommodation. The two How do I keep in contact with on the free U7/U8 bus service.
Please note that you need to update your Police campuses are about 7 miles apart and a free intersite
friends and family ?
Registration Certificate every time your (U7/U8) campus bus can be used to travel between
circumstances change e.g. your address changes. This the sites.
If you are planning to bring your mobile phone with What is a TOTUM card?
can be done at the nearest Police Station in
Chichester or Bognor Regis. SUBJECT AREAS BASED ON OUR you, make sure it can be used in the UK. If you
CHICHESTER (BISHOP OTTER) CAMPUS continue to use your non-UK SIM card you should In order to benefit from a range of discounts you can
find out what extra charges your phone company receive as a full-time student, you should apply for a
SUBJECT AREAS BASED ON OUR might make for using your data abroad. Some TOTUM card. This card can be used in various
companies can charge a lot of money for shops, restaurants, cinemas etc. to get a student
Top Tip: BOGNOR REGIS CAMPUS
international calls and data usage. discount on products and services.
Let the International Student Advisers –
Getting a UK phone contract/SIM card is simple. You
Paivi Leivo and Jane Smith know that you How many students are there? can either find a phone shop in town or apply online
need to register for the first time so they What about safety?
via any of the popular phone companies. If you have
can help you book an appointment on your The University has the high academic standards of a not lived in the UK before you might be limited in
behalf. large institution, but the total number of students is To make sure that your time in the UK is safe and
terms of your options – Pay-as-you-go contract/SIM
small when compared with large city universities. We only contract might be the only option available to enjoyable please download the British Council’s
combine excellent academic facilities with a friendly, you. Have a look at the Money Saving Expert’s Personal Safety Guide. It is rare that one of our
personal approach that is only possible in smaller advice on mobile phone contracts. students experience a dangerous situation, but it may
universities. be useful to have some information on what to do,
You will have access to free Wifi on campus and in just in case you need it. The Personal Safety Guide is
During normal academic year (September to May) the halls of residence. You will also be able to a good place to start. The International Student
there are approximately 5000 students at the connect to free Wifi in various locations in Advisers will hand out more safety information
University and about 3% of those are international Chichester and Bognor Regis. including important telephone numbers at the
students. international orientation events and talks.
44 # C H I U N I +44 (0)1243 812146 | international@chi.ac.uk | chi.ac.uk/international 45You can also read
