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Before you travel

Intro

We can't wait for you to join us at the University of West London!

Now that you've offered and accepted a place at UWL, you can start to prepare for your move to London. How exciting! 

On this page, you can find out more about travelling to the UK, student life, our campus, enrolment and student support and more.

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Supporting you every step of the way

At every step of your student journey, from the moment you apply to your graduation and beyond, we are here to provide you with the support you need.

Once your place at UWL has been fully confirmed, our Senior International Student Experience Officer will be on hand to help you with any questions or concerns you may have – so you can get the support you seek when you need it. 

In addition, studying in the UK may seem quite different from studying in your home country. The following organisations offer support and advice, so you can learn more about the different aspects of academic life in the UK:

Student Experience Team

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Hello,  

My name is Andreea, and I am your Senior International Student Experience Officer.

I know first-hand what it is like to be an overseas student and I am passionate about making sure you have the best university experience. I want you to make the most out of your time with us and to #LoveUWL as much as I do.  

I am always very happy to guide and support you with anything you may need. You can get in touch with me at studentvisa.experience@uwl.ac.uk

Find out more about the Student Experience Team

Your student community

Getting to know UWL before your course starts

Before you embark on your student journey at the University of West London, take some time to familiarise yourself with our institution and what it has to offer. Here are some online activities you can engage in to prepare for your academic journey:

  • 'Prepare for success' course at the University of West London

    'Prepare for success' at the University of West London is a free, half-day preparation course held online that will give you all the help you need to study and succeed in the UK - before you even start your academic programme with us.

    What will you achieve? 

    By the end of the course, you will be able to:

    • Explore the way teaching and learning is organised in the UK higher education
    • Improve the language skills you need to achieve success (academic writing, reading, listening, speaking, and note-taking) 
    • Understanding assessment in higher education 
    • Demonstrate an understanding of UK academic culture and the engagement expected of you 
    • Reflect on your own contribution and how you will positively impact your UK academic life with your culture and perspectives 
    • Develop the confidence you need to feel prepared for study in the UK 
    • A PDF Certificate of Completion as evidence of your course attendance 
       

    Important note: only UWL offer holders qualify for this unique course.

    How to book

    Please contact studentvisa.experience@uwl.ac.uk for more information.

  • Attend our UWL international online meet and greet

    As you prepare for your exciting journey to the UK and the University of West London, we understand that there are numerous tasks on your to-do list. From visa applications to booking accommodation, and from setting up your UWL IT account to completing online enrolment, there's a lot to organise. 

    We know that engaging with pre-induction emails and activities and preparing for life in London and at UWL can seem overwhelming - that's why we're here to help!

    Join us for an exclusive online UWL International Meet and Greet session designed to provide you with all the essential information you need for the next steps in your student journey. Our sessions aim to equip you with the knowledge and resources necessary to ensure a smooth transition to life in the UK and at UWL.

    Key Highlights:
    • Receive expert guidance on setting up your UWL IT account, completing online enrolment, and understanding induction procedures.
    • Learn practical tips for travelling to the UK, including required documents, border control processes, interviews, and packing essentials.
    • Explore living in the UK, including cultural tips, accommodation advice, and essential services.
    • Engage in interactive discussions, participate in informative Q&A sessions, and connect with fellow international students.
    How to book

    Please contact studentvisa.experience@uwl.ac.uk for more information.

  • Read our information for new students

    We want to make sure that you have all the essential information and resources so you can start your journey with UWL on the right path. We have put together an information for new students page to help you get ready for university study. 

    These resources are here to let you start engaging in your academic skills development before you start your course. All of these resources are available throughout the year, so you can always revisit them later on. 

    What you will find
    • New student checklist: make sure you complete all the steps required to become a UWL Student.
    • Enrolment and induction information and key dates: make a note of any important dates in your academic calendar.
    • Campus services: discover the range of support services available to help you succeed academically and personally.
    • Student life: explore opportunities to get involved in clubs, societies, and community events. 
    • Useful Resources: access helpful links, FAQs, and contact information for additional assistance.

Travelling to the UK

There are a few things you should consider and do before you start your student journey and travel to the UK. 

Before you travel to the UK, you should make sure you have the right visa to enter the country, and that you are travelling within the allowed dates of your visa. You should also check the UK Government Border Control website for up to date information on regulations. The UKCISA website has further information about going through immigration control at the UK border.

Before arriving in the UK, make sure you inform the University of when you intend to arrive on campus so we can make sure there are people on hand to welcome you.

  • Documents needed for travel

    You will need to ensure you have specific documents with you before you travel. You should keep these documents in your hand luggage to make them easily accessible, and less likely to get lost.

    This includes:

    • A valid passport, with a visa or UK entry clearance (if applicable)
       
    • Your Biometric Identity Document (BID) decision letter, detailing the collection point for your BRP Card - normally at the Compliance Office at the University of West London.
       
    • All tickets for travel (airplane, ferry and/or train).
       
    • Testing and vaccination certificates, if required.
       
    • An X-ray certificate and/or a tuberculosis report, if required.
       
    • A letter of acceptance from your place of study, which is the University of West London. Keep information about the course you are studying as a paper copy not electronic - this includes your university Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) number.
       
    • Documentary evidence that you have enough money to pay your tuition fees and accommodate yourself while you are in the UK (recent bank statements, proof of scholarship or sponsor’s letter).
       
    • Originals or certified true copies of any English language and degree certificates or technical qualifications.

    We would recommend you take copies in digital and paper format of your passport and other paperwork before travelling to the UK.   

  • Tips for preparing for travel

    Arrange your accommodation and plan your transport before you arrive in the UK. 

    Ensure that you have some cash with you (GBP, British currency), in case your debit/credit card is not working. 

    • Bring enough money to cover your immediate needs on your arrival in the UK, including customs charges, taxi and rail fares, and any emergency expenses. Please do not bring in large amount of cash.​
    • Visit the UKCISA website for information on budgeting. 

    Ensure you have suitable clothing for the season that you will arrive. 

    • Make sure to check the weather when packing to move and compare it to your home country.
    • Due to the unpredictability of English weather, you may wish to bring some clothing to suit warm, cold, wet, windy, and sunny weather!

    Bring enough medication with you, if you require it, to last until you can register with a doctor in the UK.  

    • There are restrictions on what items you can take in your hand luggage and hold luggage when boarding a plane in the UK, so make sure that you comply with these rules. 
    • Visit the Government website for more information on hand luggage restrictions.

    Make sure your phone will work in the UK.

    • Some major phone providers are EE, O2, Three, and Vodafone – remember to check that your phone is unlocked and compatible with a new network.
    • You can get a free SIM card with EE, O2, or Vodafone - visit their websites to find out more.
    • UWL campus sites and accommodation provide free WiFi. Find local free WiFi hotspots via the WiFi Map Finder website.

    Join the free 'Prepare to Study and Live in the UK' online course developed by British Council, The GREAT campaign and Study UK.

    This course will help you prepare for moving to the UK and will:

    • Help you learn more about UK higher education – teaching methods, course structure, and assessment.
    • Provide tips for studying in the English Language. 
    • Give you practical Information about living in the UK.
    • Allow you to interact with other, like-minded individuals who are preparing for their UK Education.

  • Keep us informed

    Make sure you keep in regular contact with the University regarding your current circumstances, travel plans, and if your arrival at UWL will be delayed. 

    Contact the Student Visa Experience Team: 

Arriving in the UK

Welcome to the UK! Once you have settled into your new accommodation, there are a few administrative things you will need to do next. 

If you have any questions about these processes, please contact us for support: 

  • Collect your BRP Card

    You will be able to collect your BRP from the UWL Compliance Team and complete your on-campus enrolment and the Right to Study Check when you arrive at the university.

    You will receive further instructions on when and how to do this close to the induction and enrolment period.

  • Request any required student letters

    We provide the following letter types, all of which can be requested via MyRegistry on the e:Vision portal. 

    Letters that you have previously requested, together with their request date, will appear below this section and can be downloaded again from the portal at any later point.

    Please ensure that your term time address is up to date on MyRegistry before you submit any letter requests.

    Student Status letter 

    This is an official letter that the University can provide to confirm your course details and active status. It is a verified document that you can share with a range of external bodies where required.

    In order to request a Student Status Letter please log in to the e:Vision portal.

    1. Click on the MyRegistry index in the left-hand colum
    2. Under the Communications section to the right of the webpage, please select Request a Letter
    3. Then select Student Status Letter
    4. Follow the steps on the portal.

    Once requested, the letter will be sent to your listed personal email address as well as your student email as a PDF attachment.

    Council Tax Exemption Letter

    If you are a current student on a full-time course, then you could be eligible for a Council Tax Exemption letter. Please refer to the Government’s website for further information regarding Council Tax Exemption eligibility

    In order to request a Council Tax Exemption Letter please log in to the e:Vision portal.

    1. Click on the MyRegistry index in the left-hand colum
    2. Under the Communications section to the right of the webpage, please select Request a Letter
    3. Then select Council Tax Letter
    4. Follow the steps on the portal.

    Once requested, the letter will be sent to your listed personal email address as well as your student email as a PDF attachment.

    Bank Letter

    You will need a Bank Letter to open a UK bank account. You will need a UK bank account to pay your tuition fees, pay bills and receive wages from employers if you are eligible to work.

    In order to request a University Bank Letter, please log in to the e:Vision portal.

    1. Click on the MyRegistry index in the left-hand colum
    2. Under the Communications section to the right of the webpage, please select Request a Letter
    3. Then select Request a Bank Letter (you need the Bank Name, Address and Post Code)
    4. Follow the steps on the portal.

    Once requested, the letter will be sent to your student email as a PDF attachment.

  • Get a UK phone number

    If your phone is unlocked, then you can use a UK SIM card straight away. If your phone is locked, you will need to contact your service provider to get it unlocked before you can use it in the UK. 

    You can get a free SIM card with EE, O2, or Vodafone - visit their websites to find out more.

  • Set up a UK bank account

    You will need a UK bank account to pay your tuition fees, pay bills and receive wages from employers if you are eligible to work.

    You will need:

    • Passport with valid student visa + BRP card in original format
    • a University Letter – this can be accessed via My Registry under the Communications section
    • any additional documents required by the bank during your application process that are not listed above

    In order to request a University Bank Letter, please log in to the e:Vision portal.

    1. Click on the MyRegistry index in the left-hand colum
    2. Under the Communications section to the right of the webpage, please select Request a Letter
    3. Then select Request a Bank Letter (you need the Bank Name, Address and Post Code)
    4. Follow the steps on the portal.

    Once requested, the letter will be sent to your student email as a PDF attachment.

    Please ensure that your term time address is up to date on MyRegistry before you submit any letter requests.

    If you have any further queries about student letter requests, please contact studentletters@uwl.ac.uk.

    Examples of Student Bank Accounts you can open:

  • Register with a GP (doctor)

    If you are eligible to do so, we recommend that you register with your local GP soon after you arrive in the UK. You have to register with a GP in order to receive and NHS number, which you need to access non-emergency hospital treatment.

    As a student visa holder, you have access to NHS services, including general practitioners (GPs), clinics and hospital appointments. The NHS does not cover prescriptions, dental appointments and vision check-ups and will, therefore, still come at a cost. You will need proof of address, your passport, student ID and usually a UK phone number to register with a GP.

    Find your local GP on the NHS website.

  • Get ready to study at UWL

    Engage with your studies and attend your classes – there are specific requirements for students on UK visas and you need to be aware of and comply with these.

    Enjoy your UWL student life and if you need help, just ask. As a student at UWL, you are automatically a member of the International Students House. This membership allows you to make use of their facilities in central London as well as their travel clubs etc.

    Use our Student Hub for confidential help, support & guidance on different topics, such as study support, careers, or immigration. 

    Get involved in the many curricular and extracurricular activities that we organise for you via our open days and events page.

    You can join many UWLSU societies as a student, such as the International Students Society, Gaming Society, and UWL Book Club. Joining a society is a great way to meet people with similar interests or develop new skills!

It is very important to keep your personal details private at all times. Do not reveal details that could easily identify you, such as your name, date of birth, address, or financial details.

If you are in any doubt about an email or call that you have received, and you want to check if it is genuine, please contact the UWL IT Service Desk for advice:

Further information

  • Information for new students

    Everything you need to know ahead of your arrival at UWL including when you will get your joining instructions, enrolment and induction, logging into our IT systems and getting your student ID.

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  • IT Support

    For technical support, email ITServices@uwl.ac.uk or call 0300 111 4895 (2222 from a university phone).

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  • Semester and term dates

    Find our Autumn, Spring, and Summer term dates for undergraduate and postgraduate courses including course level variations, end of semester breaks and assessment / dissertation hand in dates.

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  • Support for students

    Whether it is practical, personal or study support that you need, help is available and easily accessible. Find out more about all the support we have on offer for students at the University of West London.

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  • Our campus and sites

    Find out more about our campus, sites and how to get here.

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  • Student life

    Applying for a university course is a big step and an important decision. Find out more about university life including accommodation, our campus, travel, facilities and exploring the area.

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  • Explore London

    Studying at our West London Campus means you have central London right on your doorstep. Make the most out of studying and living in this great capital city.

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  • UWLSU: our Students' Union

    Our Students' Union ensures your voice is heard.

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  • Our academic schools & colleges

    Learn more about our academic schools and colleges.

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Get in touch