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Before You Leave

We understand that there is so much to organise before you leave for the UK. These are our top tips to help you get ready.

Bring Important Documents

  • A valid passport and student visa
  • At least four passport-sized photographs (these are often required for various cards, such as student railcards, and for police registration). They must be standard UK passport size, with white or pale background, and include your whole head and shoulders. Photographs can be obtained in the UK but may be more expensive than in your home country
  • Your unconditional offer letter & completed acceptance form
  • Your CAS Statement
  • Certified originals of your academic transcripts
  • Original English language qualification
  • Personal identification (e.g. driver's licence, birth certificate, etc.)
  • Any medical prescriptions/certificates/history/reports
  • Full details and evidence of your accommodation in the UK (we require students to live within 20 miles)
  • Evidence of funds: a letter confirming personal or family resources, or confirmation of your sponsorship
  • Contact numbers for any family/friends in the UK
  • Contact details of family/friends in the event of an emergency
  • If you are under 18, your guardian's details. The guardian must be over 25, resident in the UK and appointed by your parent.

What to Pack

Clothes

Students dress casually in the UK, mostly wearing jeans and trainers to lectures. Medium weight clothing such as sweatshirts are appropriate throughout the year, but t-shirts are more useful for the summer. For winter, you will need a waterproof coat/jacket, warmer clothing and footwear.

Personal Items

Bring some personal items (basic toiletries such as toothbrush, soap, towel, etc.) so that you do not need to go shopping as soon as you arrive. We also suggest bringing glasses, contact lenses, current prescriptions and medication. However, make sure these items will clear customs first.

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