International Study Centre

Joining us on campus

We're looking forward to welcoming you

Whether you are getting ready to join us on campus for the start of your programme or arriving on campus after starting your course from home, we are really looking forward to welcoming you to the International Study Centre. Here you can look forward to a safe, fun and inclusive learning experience as you build cultural experiences and create networks for your future. Enhanced health and safety measures, blended learning, and a supportive community of international students and expert staff ensure you will have the best start to your university experience.

Here to support you

From visa application through to booking accommodation, you’ll be fully supported by our dedicated team every step of the way. We’ll support you with:

  • What to pack
  • Planning for your arrival
  • Visa
  • Accommodation
  • How to make the most of your time with us

Studying in Centre

The International Study Centre is open for you to begin your studies and start your journey to achieving your university and career ambitions. In order to create the safest possible learning environment, and whilst social distancing restrictions are in place, you will benefit from blended learning. You will also receive one-to-one support, giving you help and guidance every step of the way.

As some lessons will be taught online, you will need to have a PC or Mac based computer. Whilst it is possible to access and interact with most course content using a tablet or smartphone, these devices will not work for assessments. If you do not have access to equipment, please let us know so that we can support you.

Computer

While it is possible to access and interact with most course content using various tablets and smartphones, such as iPads, iPhones and Android devices, these devices will not work for assessments and therefore it is important that you have a PC or Mac based computer available for use.

PC

  • Any Microsoft Windows based PC (laptop or desktop, preferably running Windows 10)
  • Web Browser: Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge (Chromium version)
  • Webcam
  • Microphone
  • Installation of Zoom for Virtual Classroom

Mac

  • Any Apple MacOS based laptop or desktop
  • Web Browser: Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge (Chromium version)
  • Webcam
  • Microphone
  • Installation of Zoom for Virtual Classroom

Internet Connection

Internet connectivity is required for access to all coursework. Internet connectivity could be in the form of a fixed line connection, 3G/4G/5G, wi-fi or other technologies.

Minimum: 600kbps download and 600kbps upload speed

Recommended: at least 1.5Mbps download and 1.5Mbps upload speed

Zoom Restricted Countries

Zoom is used for access to virtual classroom and is therefore an important part of all courses. Zoom is unavailable or restricted in several countries, with the full list available here. While Zoom may still work from the countries listed, individuals should test Zoom using their own equipment to ensure connectivity.

You will learn through a mixture of as many live teacher-led classes as possible, as well as interactive activities and resources delivered in a virtual learning environment. Your health and safety is important and we will observe social distancing guidelines at all times.

A VLE is a virtual learning environment, the online hub for your programme. Here, you will find recorded lessons, collaboration tools, helpful materials, and more.

  • Wearing face coverings is encouraged around all our buildings
  • Hand sanitiser stations
  • Enhanced cleaning and sterilising measures
  • One-way systems and signage to manage the flow of people around campus
  • Smaller class sizes to enable social distancing
  • Utilising online learning to manage number of students on campus
  • Additional support for vulnerable students or those with special requirements

Keeping you safe on campus

Pre-arrival information

Download and complete your pre-arrival form to make sure your arrival is as smooth as possible.

You can also visit Education UK, which is the British Council’s official website for international students. The website aims to:

  • Show international students what a UK education offers
  • Offer practical advice to help international students prepare for and enjoy their UK experience

If you have any questions then contact us, or your local agent will be happy to help you plan for your arrival in the UK.

Study Buddies share their experiences

See below what our resident Study Buddies have to say about arriving at the International Study Centre, and hear the advice they have to give to all new students.

Five things to do before you arrive

Before starting your programme with us, there are five things you need to do.

Most non-European Economic Area (EEA) nationals require a visa to study in the UK. Our Admissions Centre can advise you on this and issue the necessary documents, or you can find out if you need a UK visa on the UK Government website.

If you asked for accommodation when you applied, our Accommodation Team will be in touch. For those of you arranging your own accommodation, you need to let us know where you will be staying, before you arrive.

When booking your travel, make sure you arrive before your first day, so you don’t miss our valuable induction programme. Accommodation with the International Study Centre is usually available two days before the start of term.

Before term starts we’ll email you and ask you to complete an online form. You will need to fill in your travel information and your visa details.

It is essential all international students have the protection of personal insurance while studying in the UK. You can take out our StudyCare cover, or arrange your own.

Look out for fraud

Scammers may specifically target international students by pretending to be the Police, Visa issuing authorities, education agents or other regulatory bodies. It is important to be able to recognise common signs of fraudulent activity and know what to do if you come across it. The best way to protect yourself from any kind of fraud is to protect your passwords, regularly update your devices with the most up to date security software and never share your bank details or transfer money to an account you don’t recognise.

We're here to help

Make sure you tell a teacher or a member of student services team if you receive a suspicious message or phone call, or if you have any concerns about fraudulent activity. It is important that you let us know as soon as possible so that we can help to protect you and other international students in case they are targeted in the same way.

Student visa

Students walking through Kingston

To study in the UK you will need a visa. Read about how to get a visa, when you should apply for one and how to prepare for a credibility interview.

Admissions support

Staff member giving advice to a student

Our free support service helps you through every stage of the application, offering visa, accommodation and arrivals help in a variety of languages.

Student life

Students at the Kingston University, London - International Study Centre walking together through Kingston upon Thames

Discover more about what it means to be a student in this beautiful and historic town. Situated close to London, students in Kingston get the best of both worlds by enjoying a safe place to live, as well as easy access to the country's capital.

Look out for fraud

Scammers may specifically target international students by pretending to be the Police, Visa issuing authorities, education agents or other regulatory bodies. It is important to be able to recognise common signs of fraudulent activity and know what to do if you come across it. The best way to protect yourself from any kind of fraud is to protect your passwords, regularly update your devices with the most up to date security software and never share your bank details or transfer money to an account you don’t recognise.

We're here to help

Make sure you tell a teacher or a member of student services team if you receive a suspicious message or phone call, or if you have any concerns about fraudulent activity. It is important that you let us know as soon as possible so that we can help to protect you and other international students in case they are targeted in the same way.

Frequently asked questions on joining us on campus

Question Answer

What facilities are available on campus?

Visit our student life pages to find out more about what to expect on campus.

What should I do if I need support when I arrive in the UK?

We’ll ensure that you have all the information and support you need ahead of your move to the UK. We will provide you with tailored information to prepare you for your journey; including information about what to pack, planning for your arrival, and how to make the most of your time at the International Study Centre.

What should I do if I am in the UK and I need health advice or welfare support?

If you show the symptoms of COVID-19 then you should follow official UK medical advice. You should also contact the International Study Centre for further information.

View the government’s advice on what to do if you are displaying symptoms of the coronavirus.
What should I do if I am in the UK and need medical care?

If you are coming to the UK to study for 6 months or longer on a Student visa, you will be required to pay an immigration health surcharge as part of your visa application fee.

The immigration health surcharge will entitle students in the UK under the Student visa route to access NHS care at no additional cost in the same way as a permanent UK resident. The National Health Service (NHS) provides a wide range of health care services including:

  • Registration with a GP practice (family doctor) for non-urgent appointments and health checks. You will receive information about how to register with a doctor when you arrive.
  • Emergency care in local hospitals
  • Referrals to specialists if and when required (waiting lists may apply depending on the urgency of the problem)
  • On-going medical support and care for any long term medical conditions such as diabetes or asthma

Not all treatments are covered by the NHS. For example; non-emergency dentistry, orthodontics, routine eye tests and prescriptions for medicines need to be paid for.

If you are studying in the UK for less than 6 months on a short term study visa, you are not required to pay the health surcharge as part of your visa application and are therefore not eligible for full NHS support. In these circumstances, you are advised to take out medical insurance as you will be liable for NHS charges for the treatment you receive in the UK except for in a medical emergency. If you already have medical insurance in your home country, you may wish to check whether this can be extended to cover your stay in the UK.

What if I need to quarantine on arrival?

Before you travel, you should check to see if you need to quarantine when you arrive into the UK. You will not be able to leave your accommodation during quarantine so it's important that you are prepared.

If you are in Study Group managed accommodation, support will be provided by the International Study Centre, to assist you to remain in your student accommodation during your quarantine period. If you have queries, please contact your Centre for assistance.

If you are staying in privately arranged accommodation, it may not be fully equipped for your two weeks, so before you travel, you should make plans to ensure you have what you need including bedding, kitchen equipment and food. If you are unable to bring any of this with you, there are websites available where you can pre-order the items you need.

For bedding and kitchen equipment:

  • Gailarde
  • Uni Kit Out

You can order healthy food directly from supermarkets. Make sure that you check your accommodation address on their website ensure that they deliver to your area

  • Sainsbury's
  • Tesco
  • Morrison's
  • Asda

If you cannot wait for your food delivery, and would like a takeaway, the delivery services below operate in most areas of the UK:

  • Just Eat
  • Deliveroo

Finally, consider some entertainment to keep you busy, active and happy during your 14 days. You can always bring a couple of good books or consider an online streaming service for films and TV but remember to do this before you arrive as some companies do not accept non-UK bank accounts or credit cards for payment.

Staying at home for a long time can be difficult. If you are struggling, the staff at the International Study Centre will be there for you if you need any help.

What if I start or enrol late on my course?

All students should attend their Induction Week, whether already at the Centre, in quarantine, or virtually from another country.

What happens during Induction Week?

Our Induction Week programme will introduce you to your Centre, our staff, and welfare and support services. You will also receive full guidance on maintaining your health and safety whilst studying in the UK.

You will find out about your timetable, as well as important information about how we deliver your course through a mixture of classroom teaching and virtual learning, or virtual, teacher-led learning if you are starting your studies in your home country. There will also be events to help you get to know your fellow students.

If you are not required to quarantine, then some of the Induction Week activity may take place with our staff in the Centre, for example registration sessions for the Biometric Residence Permit.
Find out more about starting your studies or check the latest COVID-19 information.