international students

pre-arrival guide
Welcome to BPP Student Studying at BPP check-list Preparing Studying at BPP Study Centres Before you leave home Arriving in the UK Living in the UK Your first days at BPP Contacts and links
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Everything that you need to know in one handy guide

international students
pre-arrival guide
Welcome to BPP Student Studying at BPP check-list Preparing Studying at BPP Study Centres Before you leave home Arriving in the UK Living in the UK Your first days at BPP Contacts and links
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Welcome to BPP

Thank you for choosing to study with us in the United Kingdom

Many international students from all over the world choose to join BPP for undergraduate, postgraduate and professional studies. Our programmes in business, accounting, law, marketing, finance and health are specifically designed to boost your career. You will be part of a thriving multi-national and multi-cultural student community in one of our centres in the UK. All our study centres in London, Manchester, Leeds, Birmingham, Bristol and Abingdon are centrally located and provide state-of-the-art-facilities. Our dedicated staff in each city will help you find your feet when you arrive, but you can also prepare for your departure from home with this guide. You will find information on immigration and travelling to the UK in this brochure. In addition, you have access to our Welcome Intranet where you can find further advice on living in the UK from the day you have accepted your place at BPP. We know that going abroad is exciting, but can also be daunting at times, so we hope that the information provided in this guide will help you prepare for your stay. We are looking forward to welcoming you at BPP. Academic Year Start dates for undergraduate and postgraduate programmes are September, January and May. The academic calendar for ACCA modules is timetabled according to the ACCA exams. Details are available at www.bpp.com Timetables Timetables for your chosen study programme are available on BPPs Virtual Learning Environment around the time of registration. please see Preparing for your studies ACCA Timetable Once you have registered for your ACCA programme, your timetable will be emailed to you.

WELCOME TO BPP

international students
pre-arrival guide
Welcome to BPP Student Studying at BPP check-list Preparing Studying at BPP Study Centres Before you leave home Arriving in the UK Living in the UK Your first days at BPP Contacts and links
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Check list
Use this check-list to keep track of what you need to do. Check the tick boxes as you go along.
Immigration Request a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from International Admissions at BPP and use it to apply for a Tier 4 visa Take a photocopy of the personal details pages in your passport and your visa once it has been granted. You must keep these copies in a safe place Send a copy of your visa to BPP as soon as you have received it If you have alternative immigration permission which allows you to study in the UK, you should send a copy of this to BPP Please note, it is important that you have the correct type of immigration permission to study in the UK otherwise you may not be allowed to register on your course. Accommodation Financial Arrange accommodation either using BPPs accommodation service or by yourself Keep contact details of your accommodation in your hand luggage when you travel to the UK Check with your bank about regulations concerning transferring money to the UK Check your government restrictions on taking money out of the country Obtain travellers cheques (or credit card) & British Currency for the first weeks In case of outstanding payment to BPP: check you have the funds available to pay on arrival Travelling to the UK Buy travel tickets, travel & health insurance and carry them in your hand luggage Make a list of what you are carrying in your luggage and check the weight of your luggage against your airlines allowance Dont forget to take your valid passport (or identity card) in your hand luggage Obtain a letter of explanation from your doctor for any prescribed drugs and take the letter and the drugs with you in your hand luggage If required take certificates of health / vaccination and X-ray report with you; check with your British Embassy / High Commission Check the weather forecast and bring some warm clothing in your hand luggage Documents to bring with you Originals (or certified copies) of your qualifications, you will need to show these at registration Your document confirming your place on a course at BPP Evidence that you have enough money to accommodate yourself while studying (and pay any unpaid tuition fees) recent bank statements etc Contact details for BPP Study Centre and your accommodation details Starting your studies Complete pre-programme study / reading (depending on your course) Check BPPs Welcome Intranet (details have been sent to you when you accepted your place) for the registration day Arrive on time for your registration with the necessary documents
3 STUDENT CHECK-LIST

international students
pre-arrival guide
Welcome to BPP Student Studying at BPP check-list Preparing Studying at BPP Study Centres Before you leave home Arriving in the UK Living in the UK Your first days at BPP Contacts and links
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Studying at BPP

Preparing for your Studies

As soon as you have accepted your place at BPP we will send you an email with login information for our Welcome Intranet. Initially you will get a generic login valid for all students. You will then be issued an individual login nearer to the start of your studies. The Welcome Intranet is part of BPPs Virtual Learning Environment and gives you essential information about your course, including pre-reading suggestions. The information on the Intranet will be updated regularly, so it is important to check frequently for updates. REGISTRATION You will receive the first announcement of your registration dates and times two weeks before you are due to start your programme.

Studying at BPP

international students
pre-arrival guide
Welcome to BPP Student Studying at BPP check-list Preparing Studying at BPP Study Centres A B C D Before you leave home Arriving in the UK Living in the UK Your first days at BPP Contacts and links
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Studying at BPP

Your study centre

BPP has several study centres in London, Manchester, Birmingham, Bristol, Leeds and Abingdon. You will have received the address details for your study centre in your acceptance document. Please note that our Extended Degree Programmes, Extended Master Programmes and pre-sessional English courses are only available in London.
Birmingham Birmingham, Britains second largest city, has developed into an international centre which is an exciting hub of economic prosperity making it a great place to live, study and work. The BPP study centre is situated in the heart of the city centre and equipped to the highest standard. Visit Birmingham Address: BPP Birmingham, 32-34 Colmore Circus Birmingham, B4 6BN Phone+44 (0)121 237 3800 Programmes available: In-Sessional English, BSc (Hons) Business Management, BSc (Hons) Professional Accounting, MSc Management, MSc International Marketing, Academic and Career Skills, LLB (Hons), LLB (Hons) Business Law, Graduate Diploma in Law, Legal Practice Course, ACCA. Bristol As an historic port, Bristol has long been a centre of international trade which has required the support of the legal profession. Present day Bristol is a city alive with creativity and innovation, having been officially designated a Centre of Culture and a Science City as well as winning the European City of the Year Award in 2008. Located in the heart of Bristol, the BPP Law School is also close to the famous waterfront. Visit Bristol Address: BPP Bristol - Law School, Grove Avenue Queen Square, Bristol, BS1 4QY Phone: 0845 226 2422 Fax: +44 (0)161 237 9650 Programmes available: LLB (Hons), LLB (Hons) Business Law, Graduate Diploma in Law, Legal Practice Course. LEEDS Leeds is a vibrant city with a buzzing social scene and plenty to keep you entertained while you undertake your studies. At night Leeds city centre is buzzing with a wide variety of bars, pubs, clubs and restaurants. Leeds has beautiful countryside on the doorstep including the Yorkshire Dales, Yorkshire Moors National Park, Bronte Country and the Yorkshire coast. The BPP Law School and ACCA centre are both located in the city centre with easy access to transport links. Visit Leeds Addresses: BPP Leeds - Whitehall 2, Whitehall Quay, Leeds, LS1 4HR Phone: +44 (0)113 386 8250 Programmes available: BSc (Hons) Business Management with Finance, BSc (Hons) Banking and Finance, LLB (Hons), LLB (Hons) Business Law, Graduate Diploma in Law, Legal Practice Course, Bar Professional Training Course. BPP Leeds - 36 Park Row, Leeds, LS1 5JL Phone: +44 (0)845 226 2422 Programmes available: ACCA

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5 Studying at BPP

international students
pre-arrival guide
Welcome to BPP Student Studying at BPP check-list Preparing Studying at BPP Study Centres A B C D Before you leave home Arriving in the UK Living in the UK Your first days at BPP Contacts and links
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Studying at BPP

Your study centre

BPP has several study centres in London, Manchester, Birmingham, Bristol, Leeds and Abingdon. You will have received the address details for your study centre in your acceptance document. Please note that our Extended Degree Programmes, Extended Master Programmes and pre-sessional English courses are only available in London.
london London is one of the most exciting cities in the world. Diverse and dynamic, historical and multicultural, the capital is not only at the centre of British cultural and business life, it is a major player on the international business and legal stages. BPP has two law schools in London, one in Holborn, close to the Inn of Courts and one in Waterloo near to the famous London Eye. BPP Business School is situated in Londons commercial centre, near Liverpool Street Station. There are currently three accountancy training locations across London for full time ACCA students, one only minutes from Europes largest shopping centre Westfield. Visit London Transport for London
Addresses: BPP London - Business School 2 St Mary Axe London, EC3A 8BF Phone: +44 (0)207 633 4300 Programmes available: In-Sessional English, BSc (Hons) Business Management, BSc (Hons) Professional Accounting, BSc (Hons) Banking and Finance, BSc (Hons) Business Management with Psychology, MSc Management, MSc Management with Finance, MSc Management with Finance and Financial Markets, MSc Management with Project Management, MSc
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Management with Tourism & Hospitality, MSc International Marketing, Academic and Career Skills. BPP Croydon Ground Floor, Carolyn House 26 Dingwall Road, Croydon, CR0 9XF Phone: +44 (0)845 226 2422 Important: This location is considered as an outer London borough and requires reduced maintenance funds. Programmes available: ACCA

BPP London Holborn Law School 68-70 Red Lion Street, London, WC1R 4NY Phone: +44 (0)845 077 5566 Programmes available: LLM Pathways Commercial Law, Financial Regulation and Compliance, International Business Law, Comparative Commercial Law, International and Comparative Tax Law, Transnational Criminal Justice, Graduate Diploma in Law, Legal Practice Course, Bar Professional Training Course.

BPP London Waterloo 137 Stamford Street, London, SE1 9NN Phone: + 44 (0)20 7633 4300 Programmes available: Pre-Sessional English, BSc (Hons) Psychology, LLB (Hons), LLB (Hons) Business Law, LLB (Hons) Law with Psychology LLB (Hons) (GDL Conversion), Graduate Diploma in Law, Legal Practice Course.

BPP Kings Cross Study Centre, Marcello House 236-240 Pentonville Road, Kings Cross, London, N1 9JY Phone: +44 (0)20 7520 7300 Programme available: ACCA

BPP Shepherds Bush, Aldine Place 142-144 Uxbridge Road, Shepherds Bush Green London, W12 8AA Phone: +44 (0)20 8740 2211 Programme available: Pre-sessional English, In-Sessional English, International Foundation Certificates, Pre-Masters Diplomas, ACCA.

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Studying at BPP

international students
pre-arrival guide
Welcome to BPP Student Studying at BPP check-list Preparing Studying at BPP Study Centres A B C D Before you leave home Arriving in the UK Living in the UK Your first days at BPP Contacts and links
PRINT DOWNLOAD

Studying at BPP

Your study centre

BPP has several study centres in London, Manchester, Birmingham, Bristol, Leeds and Abingdon. You will have received the address details for your study centre in your acceptance document. Please note that our Extended Degree Programmes, Extended Master Programmes and pre-sessional English courses are only available in London.
manchester Manchester is a cosmopolitan city with thriving nightlife and a bustling social scene and with a student population of over 60,000, it is well suited to students needs. It is also one of the largest legal and commercial centres in the country. BPPs study centre in Manchester is a newly renovated historic building situated in the heart of the city centre, within five-minutes walk of Oxford Road train station and main shopping areas. Visit Manchester
Address: BPP Manchester, St Jamess Building, 79 Oxford Street, Manchester, M1 6FQ Phone: +44 (0)845 678 6868 Programmes available: In-Sessional English, BSc (Hons) Business Management, BSc (Hons) Business Management with Finance, BSc (Hons) Professional Accounting, MSc Management, MSc Management with Finance, MSc Management with Finance and Financial Markets, MSc Management with Project Management, MSc Management with Tourism & Hospitality, MSc International Marketing, Academic and Career Skills, LLB (Hons) Law, LLB (Hons) Business Law, Graduate Diploma in Law, Legal Practice Course, ACCA. .
7 Studying at BPP

ABINGDON Abingdon is a market town in Oxfordshire. Being in close proximity to Oxford there are many places to go shopping or spend an evening in the very popular area of Oxford, where you can enjoy the college life. Many places run popular student nights and have special discounts and offers. Visit Oxfordshire
Address: McTimoney College of Chiropractic McTimoney House 1 Kimber Road Abingdon, OX14 1BZ Phone: +44 (0) 1235 523336 Programmes available: Higher Education Certificate in Health and Social Care, Integrated Masters in Chiropractic (MChiro).

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international students
pre-arrival guide
Welcome to BPP Student Studying at BPP check-list Preparing Studying at BPP Study Centres A B C D Before you leave home Arriving in the UK Living in the UK Your first days at BPP Contacts and links
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Studying at BPP

Travelling from the airport to our study centres

BPP Leeds The nearest major international airport to our Leeds Whitehall Quay and Leeds Park Row sites is Manchester International. You can get a train from Manchester Piccadilly train station to Leeds. It is only a short walk from Leeds train station to our Leeds Whitehall Quay and Leeds Park Row centres. bpp manchester Manchester International airport has excellent links with many countries and is a short train journey to Manchester city centre. It is only a short walk from Manchester Piccadilly train station to our Manchester St Jamess site. bpp birmingham The nearest airport to our Birmingham centre is Birmingham International. You can get a train from the airport to Birmingham Snow Hill station. BPP Birmingham is located just 500 yards from Birmingham Snow Hill station. If you get a train to Birmingham New Street station, our centre is only a 10 minute walk from here. bpp bristol The nearest major international airports to our Bristol centre are London Heathrow and Birmingham International. If you arrive at London Heathrow, you will need to get a train from London Paddington train station to Bristol Temple Meads. If you arrive at Birmingham International you will need to get a train from Birmingham New Street Station to Bristol Temple Meads. It is only a short walk from Bristol Temple Meads train station to our Bristol site. bpp abingdon The nearest airport to our Abingdon centre is London Heathrow. You can get a bus to Oxford from the airport and then transfer to a local bus to get to Abingdon. bpp london centres There are many airports in London, with the main ones being Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted and Luton. Your journey to your BPP London centre will depend on what airport your flight arrives at, and what means of transport you take for your onward journey once youre in the UK. The easiest and quickest route to central London from Heathrow, Gatwick and Stansted is to take the fast express trains to central London. If you arrive at Luton airport, take a First Capital Connect train southbound to central London. From central London you can travel to your BPP London study centre using the quick and easy underground Tubes, buses and overground trains for our Croydon centre. The nearest airport to BPP Croydon is Gatwick. If you arrive at Gatwick, take a train to East Croydon, which is a five minute walk from our centre.

Studying at BPP

international students
pre-arrival guide
Welcome to BPP Student Studying at BPP check-list Preparing Studying at BPP - Before you Arriving in Study Centres leave home the UK A B C D E F G H Living in the UK Your first days at BPP Contacts and links
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Before you leave home

Immigration It is your responsibility to apply for the correct visa in plenty of time before you travel to the UK for your studies. This brochure contains general information about the immigration process but the immigration regulations change regularly so you should check the UK border Agency website www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk for the most up-to-date information. You should also read the Tier 4 policy guidance before you make your application. The information provided in this guide is correct at the time of publication. If you are a national of an EU/EEA country or Switzerland, you do not need a visa to study in the UK. Student Visitor Visa (SVV) You may be able to apply for a student visitor visa if your course will last for less than six months or if you will be studying an English language course which will last for less than 11 months. If you enter the UK with a student visitor visa, you will not be allowed to work during your studies, apply to switch (change in the UK to another type of visa), extend your visa or bring your family with you to the UK as your dependants. To apply for a student visitor visa you will need to obtain a letter of acceptance from BPP. We will normally issue a SVV acceptance letter only to students who intend to enrol on our summer school programme. You cannot apply for a Student Visitor Visa if you are already in the UK. Tier 4 (General) Student visa To come to the UK and study, you will probably need to apply under the Points Based System for a Tier 4 (General) Student visa. If you think you might be eligible to study in the UK using a different type of visa please contact the Study Visas team by email at studyvisas@bpp.com with details. If you do not have the correct immigration permission to study at BPP, you will not be allowed to register on your course. Continues on next page

Before you leave home

international students
pre-arrival guide
Welcome to BPP Student Studying at BPP check-list Preparing Studying at BPP - Before you Arriving in Study Centres leave home the UK A B C D E F G H Living in the UK Your first days at BPP Contacts and links
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Before you leave home

Applying for a Tier 4 (General) Student visa If you intend to apply for entry clearance as a Tier 4 (General) Student, you will need to do this in the country where you normally live. You should send your application to the visa section of your local British Embassy or High Commission. In many countries you can submit your initial application online or you can download and complete the relevant application forms: VAF9 and VAF9 Appendix 8. Full details of how to apply for entry clearance can be found online at www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/visas-immigration/ studying/adult-students/apply-outside-uk/ If you are already in the UK, and you meet the requirements to apply for a Tier 4 (General) Student visa, you will need to submit an immigration application to the UK Border Agency (UKBA). You can send your application by post or you can make an appointment to go in person to one of the UKBAs Public Enquiry Offices. You will need to download and complete the Tier 4 (General) Student application form. Full details of how to apply for leave to remain from within the UK can be found online at www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/visasimmigration/studying/adult-students/applying-inside-uk/ Please make sure that you use the most recent versions of the relevant application forms otherwise your immigration application may be rejected. Please note BPP shall decide at its discretion whether to issue a CAS to you. Students who have studied in the UK before If you have studied in the UK before BPP will assess you in terms of academic progression and the 5 year Cap. Academic Progression since July 2011 the UKBA require sponsors to confirm that the course for which they are assigning a CAS represents academic progression from the students previous studies in the UK. The UKBA expects students to progress from one NQF level to the next (so if your previous course was at NQF Level 5, they expect your next course to be at NQF Level 6 etc). Study at the same or (very rarely) at a lower level is permitted, but only in exceptional circumstances. If you think you do not meet the requirement for academic progression, or if you have any questions about it, please email studyvisas@bpp.com The 5 Year Cap - since the 6th of April 2012 the UKBA have limited the time a student can spend in the UK studying at NQF Level 6 and 7 to 5 years. All time spent under the Old rules as well as under Tier 4 counts towards the cap. There are certain exemptions for Law Professional Courses (the Graduate Diploma in Law and the Legal Practice Course) if you have completed a degree in the UK. For further information about the 5 year cap or how it will impact on you please refer to the Tier 4 Policy Guidance on the UKBA website or email studyvisas@bpp.com.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION
As a student with a Tier 4 visa you are allowed to stay in the UK provided you register on the course for which your visa was granted and continue to attend all of your classes. If you do not register on time, do not attend classes, suspend your studies or leave your course early, BPP is required to report you to the UKBA and it is likely that your visa will be cancelled. You cannot study in the UK on a Tier 4 visa as a part-time student or on an online programme.

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Before you leave home

international students
pre-arrival guide
Welcome to BPP Student Studying at BPP check-list Preparing Studying at BPP - Before you Arriving in Study Centres leave home the UK A B C D E F G H Living in the UK Your first days at BPP Contacts and links
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Before you leave home

Documents needed To apply for a Tier 4 (General) Student visa, you must have: 1. A  Confirmation of acceptance for studies (CAS) from an education provider which is listed on the UKBA Register of Tier 4 Sponsors BPP University College has been granted a Tier 4 Highly Trusted Sponsor licence by the UKBA. Our Tier 4 sponsor licence number is DF1GYYNR3. We will issue you with a CAS once you have accepted your offer and paid your deposit. Details of the CAS should be included with your Tier 4 (General) Student visa application. 2. Your finances As part of your visa application, you will need to include documents to show that you have enough money to cover your course fees for the first year and living costs for a maximum of nine months. Your CAS will include details of the money that you have already paid to BPP towards your course fees. Please ensure the CAS accurately reflects the amount paid. If there are any inconsistencies, please email studyvisas@bpp.com If you still owe some of your first years course fees, you will need to provide bank statements proving that this money is available to you. You will also need to show evidence that you have enough money to cover your living costs, or maintenance. The amount of money that you are required to show for maintenance will depend on where you will be studying (1000 per month for inner London centres and 800 per month for all other centres) and the length of your course (up to a maximum of nine months). If you are currently studying in the UK, you may be able to show a lower amount of money if you qualify for an established presence in the UK. The definition of established presence is available on the UKBA website. If you are unsure whether you qualify please studyvisas@bpp.com. The evidence you provide from your bank or financial institution must meet specific criteria. It must not be more than one month old and it must show that you have held the required amount of money for at least 28 days. The balance must not have dropped below the required amount on any day during this period. Alternatively, you can choose to use money held in a bank account by your parents however you will also need to include your birth certificate and a consent letter from your parents with your Tier 4 application. If you are using an overseas bank account which is in a currency other than UK sterling, you most provide a conversion of the closing balance on your account in / GBP. You should use the website OANDA www.oanda.com/convert/classic to provide an official conversion of the closing balance. The UKBA will check your account balance in /GBP using the OANDA website. The Tier 4 (General) Student visa application form now includes a financial declaration. By signing this declaration you are confirming the money is currently available to you and will continue to be available to you during your studies in the UK. If you do not sign this declaration, or the UKBA discover that you have made a false declaration your application will be refused. Continues on next page

11

Before you leave home

international students
pre-arrival guide
Welcome to BPP Student Studying at BPP check-list Preparing Studying at BPP - Before you Arriving in Study Centres leave home the UK A B C D E F G H Living in the UK Your first days at BPP Contacts and links
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Before you leave home

3. Evidence of your qualifications Along with your application and your financial documents, you will need to include evidence of the qualifications that have been used to assess your academic ability for the course. These will be listed on your CAS. You must include the original certificates, not photocopies. 4. Evidence of your English language ability BPP University College is a Higher Education Institution in the UK with a Tier 4 Highly Trusted sponsor licence. This means that if you are studying a course at degree level or above we can chose how to assess your English language ability. You will not have to submit any further evidence of this with your Tier 4 (General) Student application. If you are studying any other course, such as the Foundation Certificate or a pre-sessional English course we will have assessed your English language ability using one of the UKBAs approved Secure English Language Tests (SELTs). Details of this will be included in your CAS and you will need to provide the original certificate as part of your Tier 4 application. 5. Low risk nationals The UK Border Agency (UKBA) has published a list of nationals who they believe are low risk if applying for immigration permission in the UK, or for entry clearance in the country of their nationality. If you are deemed to be low risk by the UKBA you do not need to include your qualifications or financial documents with your Tier 4 (General) Student visa application. However, you must have these documents available to you before submitting your Tier 4 application as the UKBA may ask for them at any time. If you do not submit the relevant documents when asked, your application will be refused. 6. Biometric information & interview You will be asked to provide biometric information (facial photograph and fingerprints) as part of your immigration application. Once you have submitted your application, you will have to go in person to your nearest visa application centre and give your biometrics. Your application will not be processed until this has been done. If you are applying for entry clearance from overseas, you may be asked to attend an interview as part of your entry clearance application. The entry clearance officer will ask you questions about the course that you are intending to study and the location, so you should make sure you know the details. If you are unable to answer basic questions without the help of an interpreter, your application will be refused. 7. Medical checks In some countries, you must also show that you have been screened for tuberculosis as part of your entry clearance application. You should check with your local visa application centre if you will need to provide evidence of this. Continues on next page

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Before you leave home

international students
pre-arrival guide
Welcome to BPP Student Studying at BPP check-list Preparing Studying at BPP - Before you Arriving in Study Centres leave home the UK A B C D E F G H Living in the UK Your first days at BPP Contacts and links
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Before you leave home

Checklist for visa application 1. Use the correct visa application form: VAF9 and Appendix 8 for entry clearance applications overseas; Tier 4 (G) for leave to remain applications in the UK. You must complete it fully. 2. Include the correct application fee, a recent passport sized photograph and your current passport or travel document. 3.  Make sure that you provide your original certificates and documents. 4. If you are using bank statements held by your parent(s) or legal guardian(s), you will also need to provide your birth certificate or a court document confirming the relationship along with a letter of consent from your parent(s) or legal guardian(s). 5.  Before you submit it, you should take photocopies of the visa application and all of the documents that you are including with it. 6. K  eep a copy of all correspondence you send and receive related to your visa application. 7. Once you have been granted entry clearance or leave to remain, you should check all of the details to make sure that they are correct. If any of the details are wrong you should ask to have them corrected. 8. Take a copy of your immigration permission and keep it somewhere safe. 9. W  hen travelling to the UK, you should carry all of your documents in your hand luggage in case you are asked to show them on arrival to the UK.

Useful Links
www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/visas-immigration/studying/ adult-students/apply-outside-uk/ www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/visas-immigration/studying/ adult-students/applying-inside-uk/ www.ukcisa.org.uk/student/immigration.php

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Before you leave home

international students
pre-arrival guide
Welcome to BPP Student Studying at BPP check-list Preparing Studying at BPP - Before you Arriving in Study Centres leave home the UK A B C D E F G H Living in the UK Your first days at BPP Contacts and links
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Before you leave home

Accommodation in the UK It is important that you arrange accommodation before you travel to the UK. If this is not a permanent arrangement for the full period of your studies, it should be for the first few weeks of your stay at least. Once you have arrived in the UK and arranged your permanent accommodation you will need to inform the UKBA of your new contact details. You must do this by completing the Points Based System: Migrant Change of Circumstances Form which is available online at: www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/visasimmigration/studying/adult-students/changes/ Accommodation for international students Organising your accommodation from abroad can be challenging, so we have several options which will suit the requirements of international students whether you are studying with us long term or doing a short course at BPP. Halls of Residence Halls of residence are large accommodation blocks designed specifically for students. They usually contain a variety of fully furnished rooms such as en-suite (you have your own bathroom); twin (two separate single beds) and studio (selfcontained unit with all living facilities). They are a great option for international students who want all accommodation costs included in the one payment. Halls of residence are the perfect way to fully immerse yourself in the UK student experience. Halls of residence usually require students to book rooms for between 48 and 52 weeks and a discount can normally be given if the entire stay is paid for in one initial payment. London Nest & The Stay Club London Nest is a London based accommodation provider that offers brand-new, high quality rooms for short-term lets (minimum 1 week). This is an ideal option if you want to have somewhere to stay when you first arrive in London while looking for somewhere more permanent to live. The Stay Club also takes long-term bookings if you decide you want to stay. Home Stay Home Stays are by far the most popular choice amongst overseas students visiting the UK. Students choose this form of accommodation for the sake of home comforts, a family atmosphere, and a chance to practise English and generally learn about the British way of life. You are not simply renting a room, but can expect to be treated as one of the family. This is a perfect option for international students looking for comfortable, safe accommodation for a short period of time until you find something more permanent. Our recommended home stay provider, Hosts International, can also place you in a home for a longer duration if that is what you require. We offer a simple online booking system with Hosts International, and no fee is payable until arrival, making this a simple solution for short-term accommodation needs Prices for Home Stay accommodation (currently only available in London and Bristol) For Home Stay accommodation prices range for single occupancy from 120 for BB (Bed & Continental Breakfast); 160 for HB (Bed, Continental Breakfast and Evening Meal) and 130 for self-catering - Room only, student purchases own food and can use the family kitchen. For twin/double occupancy, prices range from 110 for BB, 145 for HB and 125 for self- catering. For more information on all accommodation options visit www.bppstudents.com/international-students-home-stay/ or email accommodation@bpp.com Continues on next page
14 Before you leave home

international students
pre-arrival guide
Welcome to BPP Student Studying at BPP check-list Preparing Studying at BPP - Before you Arriving in Study Centres leave home the UK A B C D E F G H Living in the UK Your first days at BPP Contacts and links
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Before you leave home

3. Evidence of your qualifications Along with your application and your financial documents, you will need to include evidence of the qualifications that have been used to assess your academic ability for the course. These will be listed on your CAS. You must include the original certificates, not photocopies. Health check You should have a health check at least four weeks before you leave for the UK. Dont leave this to the last minute, as you wont have enough time to readjust to any new medication before your journey and new lifestyle. You should get information, in English, about any medical conditions you have and about any medication that you take, so that you can give these to a UK doctor when you register. You should obtain a copy of your chest X-ray report and carry it with you when you travel to the UK. You may have to produce this at passport control; if you do not have one, you may need to have an X-ray when you arrive. Health Insurance As a student in the UK, registered for a course for longer than 6 months, you can receive medical care, including hospital treatment, from the UKs National Health Service (NHS). Much of this is free, but there are charges for prescription items, and you will normally have to pay for dental and optical treatment. All students, whether or not eligible for NHS treatment, must have insurance to pay the costs of returning home in an emergency or if you have an accident in the UK emergency repatriation. Other insurance In addition to insurance that covers some or all aspects of healthcare, you must have insurance for your journey and for your stay, including your property, while you are here. What to bring with you Clothes British weather can be changeable, so you may need warm and waterproof clothing at any time of year. Some buildings in the UK are old and difficult to heat; if you come from a hot climate, you may sometimes be cold even when inside. Bring clothes that you can wear in layers - for example, T-shirts, shirts & sweaters. Electrical appliances The UK electricity system works at 240 volts / 50 cycles; standard sockets take a three (square) pin plug. Check that any electrical equipment you want to bring can be used with this system and connected with a suitable adapter (which you can buy in the UK). Medical Records If you are receiving treatment for, or have, a long-term condition such as diabetes, bring copies of your medical records (translated if necessary) to give to a doctor / GP here. Bring contact details for your doctor in your home country.

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Before you leave home

international students
pre-arrival guide
Welcome to BPP Student Studying at BPP check-list Preparing Studying at BPP - Before you Arriving in Study Centres leave home the UK A B C D E F G H Living in the UK Your first days at BPP Contacts and links
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Before you leave home

Customs regulations If you are unsure about whether there are restrictions on items you plan to bring with you, check with your local British Embassy. If you send items by air or sea freight, complete customs declarations carefully - state what is packed and that the items are personal effects, part of your temporary move to UK as an international student. Other items Depending on your accommodation arrangements you also might have to bring or buy bed linen and other household items. Check with your accommodation provider. If you have booked homestay in London with BPP, the room is fully equipped with bed linen but not towels. Money and expenses You will probably not have a bank account in the UK before you arrive, so you should bring enough money for your initial expenses: the journey from the airport to your accommodation food and living in the first weeks other things you may want to buy, such as study materials Opening a bank account in the UK can take a few weeks. You should bring some cash, perhaps 200 - 500. You should also have easy access to more cash, depending on how soon you expect to have money transferred to a UK bank account - you could bring Travellers Cheques or a credit card / international debit card. Avoid carrying any more cash in case it gets lost or stolen. If you are planning to transfer money to the UK you should arrange this before you leave your home country. You may want to open an account with a multinational bank before coming to the UK, especially if you can use its cash machines in the UK to withdraw money from your account. If you have a bank card from home that is an international cash / debit card you can use it in the UK with your Personal Identification Number (PIN) to withdraw money from a bank or pay in shops and restaurants. Check how to use your card before you come to the UK. Information on how to open a bank account in the UK is available on BPPs Welcome Intranet.

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Before you leave home

international students
pre-arrival guide
Welcome to BPP Student Studying at BPP check-list Preparing Studying at BPP Study Centres Before you leave home Arriving in the UK Living in the UK Your first days at BPP Contacts and links
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Arriving in the uk
Immigration When you arrive in the UK, you must show your passport and entry clearance (visa) to the UKBA Border Force Officer. There usually are two channels through Passport Control: for EU / EEA & Swiss nationals for non-EEA nationals EU / EEA & Swiss nationals No visa required, just your valid passport or travel document Non-EEA nationals You will need: your passport and student visa a health / medical certificate (if required) your completed landing card A Border Force Officer will check that your documents are valid. You may be asked some questions about your course and place where you will be studying to check that you meet the student immigration rules. You must be able to answer these questions in English. You may also be asked to have a brief health check by the airport doctor, which might include an X-ray. The Border Force Officer will then stamp your entry clearance certificate with a date of entry. If you are required to register with the police, then you must do this within 7 days of your date of entry. More information on registering with the police is available on arrival and on BPPs Welcome Intranet. Important: If you are asked by the Border Force Officer for an address in the UK, give the address of where you are staying NOT the address of the BPP study centre. Finding your luggage If you arrive by air, you can collect your baggage after immigration control. You may have to look for the correct collection area / zone. Customs There are different exits: the green channel if you have Nothing to Declare, the red channel if you have Goods to Declare or the blue channel if you arrive from an airport in the EEA and have already cleared your luggage through customs. Go through the red channel if you have more than the permitted duty-free allowances or any prohibited goods. If you are unsure about what you can bring into the UK, check before you travel. Even if you choose the green channel, Customs Officer(s) may check your luggage. After you have passed through customs, you can leave the airport and travel on.

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Arriving in the uk

international students
pre-arrival guide
Welcome to BPP Student Studying at BPP check-list Preparing Studying at BPP Study Centres Before you leave home Arriving in the UK Living in the UK A B C Your first days at BPP Contacts and links
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living in the uk
Living and studying in a new country is sometimes confusing, exciting, stressful, but very rewarding. It is normal to find things that are strange and adapting to the unfamiliar takes time. BPP is always there to assist you during your time in the UK. The information on the following pages will help you to understand a little about life in the UK. We wish you an enjoyable stay and look forward to helping you throughout your adventure!
Looking after yourself and your valuables Although the UK is generally a safe country, you need to be careful with your personal possessions, especially those of value. Thieves are always looking for the opportunity to steal. You must insure your property (see check list and Before you leave home). You should always take sensible precautions especially at night and in some areas. Avoid leaving luggage, bags or briefcases in waiting rooms, on railway platforms or on luggage racks. Be careful with valuables like cameras, Mp3 players, mobile phone and computers. You should always keep a copy of your passport, visa and Police Registration Certificate in case they are lost or stolen. If the worst happens, always tell the police first. Climate The UK has a pleasant climate, with few extremes, and the weather here is famously changeable. However, some students find that the weather here affects them a lot. You may be used to a warmer climate, or you may find the colder and more humid weather difficult to get used to. Be aware of the weather and the affect it may be having on your life in the UK and dress in accordance to your needs. Food You may find British food different to what you are used too. The UK has a diverse range of restaurants to sample and enjoy. There are local markets, which cater for different styles of cooking available in most major cities to get a taste of home. You will not have to rely on fast food! Healthcare If your course of study is longer than six months, you are entitled to free National Health Service treatment in the same way as UK citizens. You can use public hospitals and doctors surgeries free of charge once you inform them that you are registered with us. Continues on next page

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living in the uk

international students
pre-arrival guide
Welcome to BPP Student Studying at BPP check-list Preparing Studying at BPP Study Centres Before you leave home Arriving in the UK Living in the UK A B C Your first days at BPP Contacts and links
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Living in the uk
Language Listening to and speaking in a foreign language can be tiring. If English is not your first language, you may miss your familiar language. Even if you are a fluent English speaker, it is possible that UK accents will make the language harder to understand. People may speak quickly, and you may feel embarrassed to ask them to repeat what they have said. In general you can count on the English being very friendly and patient, so do not hesitate to ask twice. Adjusting to your new environment Adjusting to the unfamiliar is exciting, difficult and changes your perspective. You may encounter differences in climate, dress, food, language, social roles, values and study compared with what you are used too. This is entirely normal! Make sure that you allow yourself plenty of time to take in your new experience and cope with the change. Rules of Behaviour In addition to obvious differences sights, sounds, smells and tastes, every culture has unspoken rules which affect the way people treat each other. These differences may be less obvious and you will probably notice them later. You may find social relationships more formal or less formal than you are used to, and you may notice big differences in social contact and relationships between men and women compared with home. Punctuality The British have a reputation for punctuality. In business and academic life keeping to time is important. You should always be punctual for classes and meetings. If you are going to be late, try to let someone know. Values and Beliefs You will notice that people from other cultures have very different views of the world from yours. The UK is a tolerant society which allows individuals to practice their religion and express their views openly. Smoking The number of people in the UK who smoke has declined in recent years, and there is an increasing emphasis on health, so you may find that smoking is less common than in your home country. Smoking is illegal in public buildings and in many public spaces, and many people do not allow it in their home. You can also not smoke inside bars or clubs. Alcohol and drugs For adults aged 18 and over alcohol is legal in the UK, and many people enjoy it as part of their social life; others choose not to. You should live according to your own standards and should not feel pressured to adopt those of others. You should only drink quantities that allow you to remain safe. Drugs are illegal in the UK, and you should ensure that you stay clear of any illegal substances, not only for your own safety but also to not endanger your stay in the UK. Continues on next page

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living in the uk

international students
pre-arrival guide
Welcome to BPP Student Studying at BPP check-list Preparing Studying at BPP Study Centres Before you leave home Arriving in the UK Living in the UK A B C Your first days at BPP Contacts and links
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Living in the uk
Travelling out of the UK Before travelling, check the visa requirements of countries you intend to visit. You should also take BPP documents, confirming your studies and attendance, to show when you re-enter the UK. If you need a letter confirming your student status to include with your visa application to another country during your studies, contact studentrecords@bpp.com Maintaining your immigration status Once you are in the UK as an international student with a Tier 4 visa, it is important that you do everything to protect your immigration status. This includes:  Register with the police within 7 days of arriving in the UK, if you are required to do so. It will clearly state on the visa in your passport or on the Biometric Residence Permit that you have received if you are required to do so. The following will be written, Police Registration within 7 days of arrival or Register at once with the Police.  Register on your course at BPP by the required date (if for any reason you will not be able to register on time, you should contact the International Office internationaladmissions@bpp.com immediately) Please note BPP is required to notify the UKBA if you fail to enrol by the latest enrolment date as stated on your CAS. This may result in your leave being curtailed.  Attend all of your classes. BPP is required to notify the UKBA of any students who do not maintain their attendance.  If you are ill and unable to attend class, you should let your tutor know as soon as possible and provide them with a medical certificate when you return to your studies.  If you make any changes to your marital status, name, address, course, location of study, tell the UKBA and the police if you have a Police Registration Certificate. If  you think you need to interrupt your studies, you should speak to one of BPPs international student advisers BEFORE you stop attending. They will advise you what you must do.  Do not work more hours in any week than you are allowed to, as stated on your visa. This will be a maximum of 10 or 20 hours depending on the level of the programme that you are studying. You can work full-time during the vacation periods.  Do not stay in the UK beyond the end date on your visa or entry clearance, unless you have been granted further immigration permission or have submitted an application to the UKBA before this date. Extending your visa If you enter the UK as a student, you can apply to extend your visa under Tier 4 for further studies if you meet the requirements. You will probably not need to do this until you are coming to the end of your original studies, however you should start the process in plenty of time so that you can arrange to have the finances required and gather the necessary documents for your application. BPPs International Student Advisers will be able to help you with the application process. Working during your studies Do not work more hours in a week than you are allowed to, as stated on your visa. This will be a maximum of 10 or 20 hours depending on the level of the programme that you are studying. You can work full-time during vacation periods. Travelling out of the UK You may want to take the opportunity to visit other countries in Europe during your holidays. Before travelling, check the visa requirements of countries you intend to visit. You should take recent BPP documents, confirming you are a registered student to show when you re-enter the UK. BPPs Student Advice Team will be able to help you understand what documents you need and provide the necessary letter.

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living in the uk

international students
pre-arrival guide
Welcome to BPP Student Studying at BPP check-list Preparing Studying at BPP Study Centres Before you leave home Arriving in the UK Living in the UK Your first days at BPP Contacts and links
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Your first days at BPP

Details about your course start date and study centre location are stated on your Confirmation of Acceptance for A studies (CAS) document. In addition, we will email you with access details for the Welcome Intranet. The exact date and time of your registration will be confirmed two weeks before you are due to start. At registration your documentation will be checked and you will have your photograph taken for your student ID. You must bring your current passport, plus evidence of your UK immigration permission (valid entry clearance certificate contained in your passport or a Biometrics Residence Permit, if you have one) with you as well as all your original documents. If you have submitted an immigration application to the UKBA and are still waiting for a decision, you should bring photocopies of your previous entry clearance or BRP along with evidence that you have sent your application to the UKBA; proof of postage or a confirmation letter from the UKBA. Please note, without these documents, BPP will not be able to register you on the course. After your registration you will have an induction / welcome talk by your course tutor or the programme leader.

important information
As an international student with a Tier 4 student visa you are subject to UKBA immigration control. This means we are required to report you to the UKBA if you do not register on time and so it is important that you keep us informed of any delays. If your visa is delayed, or if there is any reason why you will not be able to arrive in the UK and register on this date, you should contact the International Office immediately.

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your first day at bpp

international students
pre-arrival guide
Welcome to BPP Student Studying at BPP check-list Preparing Studying at BPP Study Centres Before you leave home Arriving in the UK Living in the UK Your first days at BPP Contacts and links
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Contact
If you have any further questions that havent been covered in this guide, or would like to talk to BPP, email internationalstudents@bpp.com or call +44 (0) 207 430 7065 Head Office BPP House, Aldine Place 142-144 Uxbridge Road London W12 8AA, UK Tel: +44 (0)20 8740 2222 Fax: +44 (0)20 8740 1111 Useful links from other organisations British Embassies & High Commissions www.fco.gov.uk - select UK Embassies worldwide UK Visa Information www.ukvisas.gov.uk www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/visas-immigration/studying The British Council www.britishcouncil.org UK Council FOR International Student Affairs www.ukcisa.org.uk VisitBritain (official UK travel guide) www.visitbritain.com National Rail Enquiries www.nationalrail.co.uk National Express (long-distance buses) www.nationalexpress.com International Student Travel Confederation (ISTC) www.aboutistc.org International Student Calculator www.international.studentcalculator.org.uk

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contact