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International Student Advice Service Travel and Preparation Handbook 2025/2026

International Student Travel and Preparation Handbook

This handbook helps you get ready for studying in the UK. It covers: How to apply for your Student visa, prearrival events, preparing to travel and live in the UK as well as learn about your rights, responsibilities and where to get support.

Student Handbook 2025/2026

Contents

Submitting your Student visa application

Receiving your Student visa outcome �� 09 Accessing your eVisa and how to prove your immigration status

Dependants 11 Kickstarter Programme

Travelling to the UK

Preparing to travel to the UK �� 13 Border control �� 15 Accommodation 16 On campus accommodation �� 16 Off campus accommodation �� 18 Helpful housing resources �� 19 Enrolment 24 Right to study check ��25 Keeping your contact details up to date ��25 Obtaining your student ID card �� 26 Requesting a student status letter ��27 Student visa responsibilities

Contents

Welcome week at UEL

Attendance recording guidelines

Life in the UK

Cost of living �� 34 Opening a UK Bank account �� 35 Registering with a Doctor (GP) �� 36 Prescriptions ��37 Dentists ��37 Driving in the UK ��37 Frauds tricks and scams ��38 Emergency contacts ��38 Working in the UK

Culture Shock

Support when you need it

International Student Advice (ISA) Service �� 43 Student Money Advice and Rights Team (SMART) �� 43 Student Wellbeing Service �� 44 Disability & Dyslexia Team �� 44 Academic Tutoring team �� 45 Chaplaincy �� 46

Submitting your Student visa application

Submitting your Student visa application Most international students will need to apply for a Student visa to study in the UK, but you can check the UK Visas and Immigration website for further information on the other types of visa categories that may apply to you. You will be required to provide evidence of having a valid visa that permits study as part of your enrolment at UEL.

Student Handbook 2025/2026

If you are an EU, EEA national, Swiss citizen or an eligible family member with Settled or Pre-Settled status, you will not need a Student visa to study. If you require a Student visa, you will need a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) issued by the university before making your Student visa application. You will receive regular webinar invitations to support with the university’s Pre-CAS assessments and Student visa application process. Please visit the UK Government website for up-to-date information on the Student visa route and our Applying for your Student visa webpages which contains detailed information on the documentary requirements for submitting a Student visa application from outside the UK. You will be required to keep the university updated on the status of your visa application via your CAS Shield Portal.

Receiving your Student visa outcome UKVI will confirm the outcome of your visa application by email and if granted, it will explain how to create your UKVI account to access your visa via UKVI’s new online immigration system, known as an eVisa. Once you receive your visa decision, please do not forget to update the university via your CAS Shield Portal.

Important deadlines! We recommend you apply for your Student visa as soon as possible to give yourself enough time to prepare to travel to the UK. Our International Admissions Deadlines.

Accessing your eVisa

Accessing your eVisa and how to prove your immigration status UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) are replacing physical documents with a digital immigration system, known as an eVisa. If your course is longer than 6 months and you applied for a Student visa, UKVI will email you with your visa decision and if successful this email will provide instructions on how to create a UKVI account (if you don’t already have one) to access your eVisa. Once you have your UKVI account, you will be able to view and prove your immigration status. If your immigration permission has been granted for 6 months or less, you will not receive an eVisa.

Important! You must be able to access your eVisa before travelling to the UK. It is also mandatory to share your immigration status to the university, so we can keep up to date records and verify your immigration status in the UK. To do this you will need to: • Generate a share code, by logging into your UKVI account • For study purposes you will need to ensure to select ‘To prove your immigration status for anything else’. • Upload your share code to CAS Shield before travelling to the UK! You can also create share codes for your employers, landlords and other third parties to prove your immigration status and conditions, such as your right to work or rent in the UK.

Student Handbook 2025/2026

Dependants If you are eligible to bring dependants to the UK, here is some information regarding places in London to live with families which may be useful: Top 10 areas for families to live in London - HomeViews It is worth noting that multi-bedroom properties are currently approximately £1,500+ per calendar month, not including utilities (bills). It is important that you create a monthly budget that you and your family can live off before you start your housing search. Please make sure that you choose a place that is affordable and that allows you to maintain a good, robust quality of life. Living in the UK is expensive. If you are planning to bring dependants, we recommend you have more funds that the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) amount for them and you have suitable accommodation and childcare arrangements in place before travelling to the UK.

Important: Very few students are eligible to bring dependants to the UK. Please refer to information on our Applying for a Student dependant visa webpage for more information.

Schooling for your children In the UK, attendance at school is compulsory for children between 5-16. Your child can attend government primary and secondary schools in the UK if they are here in the UK as your dependants.

You will not have to pay for this but schools sometime refuse places to children if their stay in the UK is too short or they have no free places. Further guidance on schooling can be found by visiting: UKCISA – international student advice and guidance Dependants If your child is under 5 years old, UEL has a nursery please see details and costings: Nursery | University of East London (uel.ac.uk)

Kickstarter Programme

Kickstarter Programme The Kickstarter Programme is an exciting and valuable opportunity for international and home students to prepare for their upcoming studies and gain essential insights into life at the University of East London. Designed to support a smooth transition into university life, this event will ensure you feel informed, confident, and ready to begin your academic journey. This virtual event will be listed on our International Events page, so please keep an eye out for the registration link there. Invitations and reminders will be sent to you via email as the date approaches.

Event Highlights • Get Classroom Ready: Practical tips to help you start your academic journey with confidence • Making the Transition: Understanding the shift from school or work to undergraduate/postgraduate study • Student Finances: Managing your money effectively while studying • Essential Information: Guidance on visas, banking, and paying your fees • Accommodation Options: Explore both on-campus and off-campus housing • Enrolment: What you need to know to get fully enrolled and ready for Day One

Student Handbook 2025/2026

Travelling to the UK

Preparing to travel to the UK You should check the UK Government website for the latest advice and guidance on Entering the UK: Overview. Please contact the International Student Advice (ISA) service (isa@uel.ac.uk) if you require further advice on travelling to the UK.

Important We recommend you do not book flights to the UK until you have received your visa. You are required to enter the UK during the validity of your Student visa and before the last late of enrolment.

Some key London airports can be seen below: London Airports

Telephone No.

Website

Gatwick

+44 (0) 344 892 0322

www.gatwickairport.com

Heathrow

+44 (0)844 335 1801

www.heathrow.com

London City

+44 (0)20 7646 0000

www.londoncityairport.com

Travelling to the UK

What to bring in your main luggage Try to bring what you need rather than everything you want. The climate in the UK is a temperate which means it does not get very cold for long in the winter or very hot for long in the summer. Although on occasion we do get snow, and it can rain frequently, so ensure you bring appropriate clothing.

What to bring in your hand luggage Your hand luggage should contain items that you can use if your main luggage is delayed. Things to consider: Travel documents, basic toiletries, a spare change of clothing, your mobile phone and charger, first aid kit (and any prescribed medication) any valuable items. Please check with your airline how many and what size bags you can take on the plane with you. Some airlines might also have different restrictions. Check with your airline before you travel if you’re not sure about what you can take as hand luggage. Please be aware of the restrictions on electronic devises and electrical items, food, animals or plants, medicines, chemicals, toxic substances, sports equipment, tools, knives, weapons, explosives etc.

If you do take liquids in your hand luggage: • containers must hold no more than 100ml • containers must be in a single, transparent, resealable plastic bag, which holds no more than a litre and measures approximately 20cm x 20cm • contents must fit comfortably inside the bag so it can be sealed • the bag must not be knotted or tied at the top • you’re limited to 1 plastic bag per person • you must show the bag at the airport security point If you are bringing medicine containing a controlled drug into the UK, you will need to prove your medicine is prescribed to you if: • it contains a ‘controlled drug’ • you have it on you when you’re entering the UK This would require supporting documentation from a relevant medical professional (e.g. a letter from your doctor or a copy of your prescription).

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Hand luggage checklist If you are entering the UK on a Student visa, you should carry the below documents in your hand luggage: Document Passport UKVI decision email Copy of your eVisa. Bookmark UKVI View & Prove, generate share code before you travel and take a screenshot of the ‘Active’ status page Copy of your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) UKVI TB test certificate (if you were required to have one as part of your Student visa application) Copy of qualifications listed on your CAS ATAS certificate (if this was stated on your CAS) Finances (copy of your bank statement / loan letter) Evidence of where you are planning on staying Prescribed medication and/or a letter from your doctor or a copy of your prescriptions (if applicable)

Border control When you enter the UK, you will need to pass through immigration control.

Important: Even though at this point your Student visa would have been granted, the border officer may still ask you questions about your chosen course, the university and where you will be living in the UK. It is important you are prepared to answer these questions. You must keep a copy of your boarding pass as this is your proof of the date you entered the UK. You will need this to complete your enrolment!

If you have any significant difficulties at this time, you can call the university via our Student Hub +44 (0)20 8223 4444 Opening hours: Monday-Friday, 9am-4pm (excluding UK public holidays).

Entering the UK via the eGates If you are a national from an EU country, Australia, Canada, Iceland, Japan, Liechtenstein, New Zealand, Norway, Singapore, South Korea, Switzerland or the USA you may be able to enter the UK via the eGates for quicker entry. If you are an EU/EEA national, you should be aware that most EU/EEA nationals are no longer able to use their identity card. It is advisable to use your passport at the UK border.

Accommodation

On campus accommodation Guidance on UEL accommodation, including information on deadline dates, eligibility criteria, room types, and allocation policy can be found on our Accommodation webpages. All our rooms are en-suite and single occupancy, meaning you will have your own private bedroom and bathroom. Moreover, all bills are included in your rent so the prices you see on our webpages cover all utility costs.

If you would like to live in our on-campus Halls of Residence, you can make an application on our Accommodation Portal. Please note, you will not be able to move into accommodation until you have an accepted room offer.

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Why live in Halls?

For Term 2 Students

• Dedicated on-site Residential Life team: Support available seven days a week during office hours, including dedicated welfare support.

We offer accommodation for students joining in Term 2 with the following tenancy options:

• Living Learning Community programme: Free events and workshops that extend learning beyond the classroom, enhance your social and professional development, and foster a strong sense of community. • Transport Links: Free inter-campus shuttle bus travelling between the Docklands, Stratford, and USS campuses. Cyprus DLR station situated on campus. • 24/7 Security: For your safety and peace of mind. • Local Amenities: Supermarkets and shops within a 10-minute walk • On-site maintenance/cleaning teams: Responsive support for any issues that may arise.

• Term 2: 12 January 2026 – 7 June 2026 • Term 2 and Summer: 12 January 2026 – 31 August 2026 Please note that university managed accommodation is not available for May intake students. Students starting in May are advised to make arrangements for offcampus housing. Guidance and support can be found in the Off-Campus Housing section of this handbook. For more information on tenancy availability, please refer to www.uel.ac.uk/study/ accommodation. Our support doesn’t end once you’ve moved in. The Residential Life team is here throughout your time in Halls, offering guidance, a listening ear and a safe space to talk through anything you might be facing. Please continue to check our Accommodation Portal and our social media pages in the lead up to your arrival and during your time living with us. If you have any questions, please contact the team by emailing ResidentialLife@uel.ac.uk or calling 020 8223 4445. We hope to see you on campus soon!

Accommodation

Off campus accommodation If you plan to live off campus, we recommend choosing accommodation within a 90-minute commute of the university so you can travel easily and arrive on time for all your classes. Some classes maybe scheduled in the evenings and on different days. You must be able to attend every class in-person, and travel time or costs cannot be used as reasons for absence. When choosing where to live, please consider both rent and daily travel costs. Although living outside London may seem cheaper, travel into the city can cost £20 or more per day and is not recommended. As UEL is based in East London, areas in East or

Southeast London are usually the most convenient. Also think about how many transport changes are needed, as this can greatly affect your journey, especially during delays. Please use the guidance below to help plan your accommodation before arriving in the UK. There are several ways to find off-campus accommodation. However, it’s very important to use reputable sources and be vigilant during your search. Recommended options include trusted property websites, licensed letting agencies, and companies specialising in student housing. Some students also find accommodation through Facebook groups or house-sharing platforms, which can sometimes be more affordable. If you choose this route, make sure to: • Never send money in advance of viewing the property in person (or virtually through a verified viewing). • Fully understand the rental terms and conditions. • Sign a tenancy agreement before moving in. It is important that you do not move into a property without a signed tenancy agreement. • Ask someone you trust to review the agreement if possible.

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Helpful housing resources: Below you will find some other helpful resources when searching for housing:

Roomgo: Rooms to Rent in London, Flatshare London

Local Estate Agents:

flatmate.com: Share accommodation and flatmates in London, Greater London, UK

You can find these by searching via Google the place you would like to live e.g. Stratford Estate Agents or using this Rightmove link Estate Agents in Stratford | Letting Agents in Stratford (rightmove.co.uk). It is currently set to Stratford but on the right-hand side of the page – you can search for other surrounding areas. Homestay agencies: HostFamilyStay (Official UEL Homestay Partner) Online Estate Agents: Rightmove: Student Accommodation - Find Student Flats & Houses across the UK (rightmove.co.uk) Zoopla: Houses & flats to rent | Properties to rent in the UK (zoopla.co.uk) OnTheMarket: Student accommodation (www.onthemarket.com) Home World Management: Properties For Rent (homeworldmanagement.co.uk) ApartmentWharf: Apartments Wharf| Premium Flats & Rooms for Rent in London | Ideal Flatshares (apartmentwharf.com) Savills: Student Accommodation (savills.co.uk) Online Housing Platforms: Spotahome: Official UEL Housing Platform Partner SpareRoom: for flatshare, house share, flat share & rooms for rent

Student Accommodation Providers: iQ Student Accommodation: Shoreditch, London Bridge, Highbury, Islington Farndale Court: Greenwich Essential Student Living: Lewisham Campus Living Villages: Greenwich Mezzino: Greenwich Fresh: Lambeth, Brixton, and Battersea Scape: Shoreditch, Kings Cross, Mile End, Bloomsbury, Canada Water Amber: Various

Accommodation

Tips and tricks for finding London housing while abroad The easiest way to find accommodation suitable for students while abroad is by applying to an alternative student accommodation complex. They will include all bills and utilities in the rental price and there is a wide range of them available in London. They can be more expensive than private rented accommodation, but it may be worth it for peace of mind surrounding your housing situation. Accommodation price comparison websites often have agents who can contact you to offer you one-on-one support when trying to find accommodation. They will usually contact you via WhatsApp to do this and give you personalised suggestions.

This helpful article offers tips to help you find accommodation: Top 10 Tips to Find an Ideal Student Accommodation Abroad - Getmyuni What to AVOID when looking for housing Please make sure that putting yourself and your housing needs first when looking for properties. The housing market is a business, and most landlords treat it as such, without putting their tenants needs first. The articles linked below will tell you what to look out for when searching for housing and what to check before signing a tenancy agreement. Again, it is incredibly important to have a signed tenancy agreement before you move into your property as this is protection for you. • Student renting guide - Zoopla • Private rental guide for students | Compare the Market

Please see a few of these websites below: • UniAcco: Book Best Student Accommodation At Affordable Prices • University Living: Global Student Accommodation and Housing | • Casita: Discover the best Student Accommodation options

If you are having difficulty finding accommodation, please contact any homestay organisation as they offer you a fully furnished room in someone’s home, and while you are staying there, your host can help you get to know the local area/wider London. There are options for meals to be included in the bundle, which will help with the cost of living in London. This option allows you to have a safe place to stay while you are figuring out a more permanent housing situation, although you can stay there as long as you need.

• 8 things to check before signing a tenancy agreement - Save the Student

Student Handbook 2025/2026

Accommodation

Knowing your housing rights It is important that you understand what rights you have when it comes to housing in the UK. Most landlords will issue an assured shorthold tenancy which can usually be 6 months or a 1 year. Once this ends, it will automatically change into a monthly contract. This will enable you to give your one month notice with ease if you are looking to leave. If you live in student accommodation or with a hall’s provider, you will enter a common law tenancy with a fixed term, as you will only be staying part of the calendar year. You should only be paying rent once a month or once a week (or on a recurring schedule, e.g., every 4 weeks). Your landlord cannot raise your rent while you are within your tenancy without your agreement. Your landlord must also give you a minimum of one month’s notice to do this and propose it in writing.

• Student housing - Citizens Advice • UKCISA - international student advice and guidance - Housing tips for international students • 10 tenancy rights every student should know - Save the Student Citizens Advice at UEL You can speak to a Citizen’s Advice representative on UEL campus directly and they can help you with housing advice and/ or landlord disputes. They will offer easy to understand, trustworthy advice and signpost you to any additional help you may need. Once you are an enrolled student, please speak to the Student Hub at either of our campuses to be sign-posted to these services.

Enrolment

Enrolment Guidance on enrolment can be found on our Enrolment webpages. You will receive an email from the University as soon as you are eligible to enrol.

Student Handbook 2025/2026

Right to study check When you arrive in the UK, the University has a statutory requirement to collect copies of your immigration documents to ensure you have the correct permission to study in the UK. You will be invited to upload evidence of your immigration permission on the Right to Study Check on UEL Direct once you have enrolled online. The evidence you will be asked to provide will vary depending on your immigration status. You will receive further support to assist you with this process. Guidance can be found on our Right to Study webpage.

Keeping your contact details up to date Help us stay in touch! It is important we have the correct contact details for you whilst you are studying with us, in case we need to reach you and to ensure you are meeting your visa requirements. During enrolment you will need to provide your UK contact details, this will include your UK phone number, current UK address, email address, and emergency contact (Next of Kin). If you do not have a UK number yet, there is no need to worry. You can request one during enrolment, and we will provide you with a UK SIM card along with instructions on how to update your contact details. It is important to keep your contact details updated throughout your time at UEL. You can do this easily once you have enrolled on UEL Direct. You should use the term-time address section for your UK contact details.

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Enrolment

Obtaining your student ID card Obtaining your student ID card at UEL is crucial for secure access to campus facilities and services as your university’s passport. The card allows you to borrow from the library, use printing facilities, and record oncampus class attendance. The first card is free, but you must complete your enrolment to function correctly. It is non-transferable, and misuse or non-compliance with terms and conditions can result in disciplinary actions, including card removal and potential legal proceedings.

Register ID card You can register with the ID card Portal. Please only use the most recent personal email address that you have provided to UEL. If you cannot register for a student ID card on the UEL Photo and Identity Verification Portal due to a technical issue, you must collect it from the Student Hub on campus. Please note that you must be fully enrolled and provide supporting paperwork proving your identity to issue your card.

Please note. Your Student ID Card remains the property of UEL. It may be disabled, and your access to buildings and other facilities denied if you fail to pay tuition fees/debts to UEL or breach other University regulations.

Student Handbook 2025/2026

Requesting a student status letter A student status letter is issued by the Student Hub. Student status letters can be requested via the Student portal - MyPortal Please note that we can only issue a status letter to you at the beginning of the term. To find your term dates, please refer to the academic calendar.

To receive your letter, please ensure the following steps are completed: • You must have completed your enrolment, including the Right to Study check. The Right to Study check is required for all students at UEL who are subject to immigration control, i.e. students without a British or Irish passport. More information can be found in the section above. • You do not have any outstanding fees. • Your address must be correctly updated. For students on a Student visa, this includes listing your home address as your overseas address and your term- time address as your UK address. It is important to understand that it is your responsibility to keep this information up to date via UEL Direct.

Student visa responsibilities

Student visa responsibilities If you are on Student visa you have certain responsibilities and you will be reminded and supported to navigate these throughout your studies.

Student Handbook 2025/2026

Some of your responsibilities are listed below: • Enrol before the enrolment deadline • Provide a copy of your passport and visa documents electronically to the University when requested • Meet the University’s attendance and engagement policy • Ensure your contact details are always up to date on UEL Direct • Inform the International Student Advice (ISA) Service of any errors on your eVisa so support can be provided to get it corrected

• Inform the Immigration Compliance team if your immigration status changes during your studies • Pay your tuition fees on time • Work only as permitted by the conditions of your Student visa • Study the course as outlined on your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) • Do not access public funds • Seek support early Further guidance on your Student visa responsibilities can be found here: Your visa responsibilities

Important items Attendance: You will be required to attend all your classes and lectures and register your attendance by swiping your Student ID card on the card readers. Attendance is monitored as a condition of your Student visa. The university does not authorise any absence from studies during term time Travel/ absence during term time You should plan your trips during official vacation periods. You can find out when you are on vacation via a student status letter when you enrol. University’s Key Term Dates can be found on uel.ac.uk/study/key-termdates. If you are required to travel for an emergency during term time you should seek advice from the International Student Advice (ISA) Service. Need to renew a residency permit for another country? If you need to travel for the purpose of renewing your residency permit, this would not be considered to be an unforeseen circumstance and you will be marked as absent for any classes/ engagement sessions you miss. It is strongly advised you plan in advance to leave the UK during official vacation ‘holiday’ period

Welcome week at UEL

Welcome week at UEL Welcome Week is your official start at UEL – a chance to settle in, meet people, explore campus, and begin building your university community before teaching starts. Welcome takes place several times a year to give all new students a warm introduction to UEL. The next Welcome Fests will be held on 19 January 2026 and 26 May 2026.

Course Orientations will take place during the week of 19 January and 25 May, respectively. In the lead-up to Welcome Week, there may also be opportunities to join optional activities to meet peers and connect before arriving. Details will be shared with you closer to the time.

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• Receive your programme handbook • Learn about modules, assessments, digital tools, and academic expectations All international students are expected to attend their Welcome activities. Attendance at Welcome Fest and Course Orientations will be monitored and recorded.

• Get your timetable, submission deadlines, and key contact points for support

Check your course pre-arrival page and email for your specific orientation schedule. Extended Welcome

Key Welcome Week Events There are two major events you must attend: Welcome Fest – Key dates | University of East London

After Welcome Week, you can enjoy a monthlong series of activities, workshops, and resources designed to help you settle in, meet others, and explore UEL at your own pace. Invitations to register for events will be sent to you via email. Make sure to look out for your Student Newsletter which will appear in your student email inbox.

Course Orientations Orientation activities take place in the same week following Welcome Fest

International Student Experience Programme

Welcome Fest A vibrant event held at Docklands Campus, for all students, to help you start your UEL journey with confidence and connection. Welcome Sessions • Get an introduction to life at UEL and the support available to you • Hear from key teams and services that will help you settle in, find your way, and make the most of your time here • Learn about practical essentials for getting started smoothly

Welcome Fair • Explore clubs, societies, and support services • Build your network and engage with community partners • Enjoy games, workshops, free food, giveaways, and prizes

Course Orientations Your introduction to your course and academic school: • Meet your Course Leader and teaching team • Connect with classmates

The International Student Experience Programme (ISEP) is designed to help you make the most of your time at UEL - academically, personally, and socially. Through the Global Café series, you can join interactive sessions co-created with students, where we explore topics that matter most to you — from navigating university life and Student visa conditions, to wellbeing, culture, and adjusting to life in the UK. Alongside ISEP, you can take part in a range of cultural activities and trips that celebrate the UK’s diversity and help you connect with fellow students from the UK and around the world. Whether you’re looking for practical advice, meaningful discussions, or new friendships, UEL offers a welcoming community where your voice shapes the experience. Don’t forget to follow the Student Life team on Instagram (@uelstudentlife) to stay connected and up to date.

Attendance recording guidelines

If you are studying an Undergraduate or Postgraduate (taught) course: Ensuring your presence at timetabled teaching events is both simple and important. Please remember that engaging with online resources linked to a campus-based event does not replace attending in person. Here is how you can efficiently record your attendance: ID Card Usage: • Your university-issued ID card is important. Keep it with you when you are on campus and do not share with anyone else. • Beyond granting access to campus facilities, it allows you to record your attendance at various events throughout your student journey. Record Attendance: • Locate the designated room mentioned on your timetable. • Swipe your ID card on the attendance card reader in that room.

Timing Matters: • For attendance to be recorded, you must swipe in on the card reader in the room stated on your timetable no earlier than 10 minutes before the start of their event and before the end of the event. Any swipe in between counts. Consequences of Early or Late Swiping: • Swiping too early will result in an “absent” mark (more than 10 minutes before the start of class). • Swiping after the first 15 minutes will mark you as “late.” Tutor’s Discretion: • Keep in mind that, in certain situations, your tutor may not permit entry if you arrive late.

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Monitoring and Checks: • The Student Engagement & Retention Team monitors attendance levels throughout the academic year using ID card swipe data and in consultation with academic staff. • Attendance monitoring helps identify students who may be facing challenges engaging with their studies, allowing the university to offer support and help get them back on track. Students with prolonged non-attendance or consistently low attendance may face withdrawal from their programme. Consequences of Circumvention: • Circumvention involves creating false attendance data - for example, tapping in without attending, or attending briefly and leaving early. This breaches the Attendance and Engagement policy and is treated as non-academic misconduct.

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• If you are unable to attend your timetabled session, please complete an absence form and speak with your academic. While this does not authorise the absence, it enables us to connect you with appropriate support if needed. • Spontaneous checks for circumvention will take place, and your ID may be checked. Please carry your ID card with you at all times. The Student Engagement & Retention Team is here to support you throughout your academic journey. By following these guidelines, you help ensure accurate attendance records and show your commitment to your academic engagement and success. If you are studying a PhD: Inductions, supervision meetings, annual monitoring reviews and transfer from MPhil to PhD meetings are considered compulsory teaching sessions in-person. Postgraduate research students are required to formerly record their supervision meetings within PhD Manager.

Life in the UK

Cost of living Student visa rules state that you must have enough money to support your living expenses in the UK. Living expenses include your rent, bills, food, travel and other personal expenses. It is important that you do not divert this money for other purposes.

Student Handbook 2025/2026

The financial requirement for your visa is an estimate of how much it will cost you to live in the UK. Your actual costs will vary depending on where you choose to live and your lifestyle choices. It is important that you make a budget plan before arriving in the UK. Look into the average cost of living in London before you arrive, so you know what to expect. The following exercise can be useful in working out whether you have enough funds in place to cover your costs: 1. Note down the amount you have to cover your living expenses 2. Subtract your essential costs (e.g. rent, food, travel) 3. Calculate your disposable income (e.g. hobbies, eating out) Build a small emergency fund into your budget, in case you face any unexpected costs.

Opening a UK Bank account We recommend you open a UK bank account once you arrive in the UK. You will need to provide evidence of who you are and where you live to open a UK bank account. You will need: • A student status letter issued by the Hub. Student status letters can be requested via the Student portal - MyPortal • Your passport and immigration documents • Any other documents the bank requests The University cannot provide you with any recommendations regarding a specific bank you should choose. Money Saving Expert and Money Helper have useful guides and information for you to compare accounts.

Life in the UK

Registering with a Doctor (GP)

Some of you may have paid for the Immigration Heath Surcharge (IHS) as part of your visa application. This allows you to use most services on the National Health Service (NHS) in the UK for free. Registering with a doctor (also known as a General Practitioner, ‘GP’) provides you access of support for your mental and physical health. It is important to register with a doctor in the UK upon your arrival. If you live on campus you can self-register at the Royal Docks Medical Practice. If you live off campus use the NHS Find a GP to search for a GP near your home address, then contact them and let them know you would like to register. We recommend you register with a GP in the first month of being in the UK.

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Prescriptions

Dentists

If your doctor provides you with medication, they may write a prescription for you. You will need to take your prescription to a pharmacy and pay a standard charge.

Dentists are not free and can be expensive, so hopefully you will have had a check-up before you left home. If you do need to see a dentist, when making your initial dental appointment please check the dentist will accept you as NHS patient. Please visit the NHS website for details on how to find a dentist near to where you plan to live in the UK.

The pharmacy also provide healthcare services such as advice on a range of common health problems and medicines that can help.

Driving in the UK In London most students use public transport (train, tube and buses) to travel. Before driving any vehicle in the UK, you should check all legal requirements that apply to the vehicle and the driver. For more information, please see Driving in Great Britain on a non-GB licence UKCISA also has very useful information about driving in the UK. Driving whilst under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal in the UK, is illegal in the UK, you should always wear a seatbelt where one is provided and observe speed limits which are in miles per hour (MPH).

Life in the UK

Frauds tricks and scams If you receive an unexpected email, telephone call or letter from someone who claims to be from the Home Office, UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI), DVLA or HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC), it may be a scam. The Home Office will never contact you to ask for money or your personal details. Please see the guidance: fraud, tricks and scams and how to protect yourself on the UK Government website.

Emergency contacts It is important to know how to access help in different types of emergencies whilst in the UK. Non-life-threatening situations: For problems that need attention but are not immediate Examples: • minor illness or injury • emotional or mental health concerns • suspicious behaviour or safety concerns

If you are suspicious:

• non-emergency police queries

• do not give out any personal information, or confirm that any personal information they have is correct

Who to contact:

• do not pay them any money

NHS 111 (non-emergency medical advice): Call 111 or use their online service: 111.nhs.uk.

• do not pay them using electronic vouchers

Local Police (non-emergency line): Call 101

Please contact the University or the local police should you be concerned that you have been targeted. You can report fraud and cyber crime online at www.actionfraud.police.uk or by telephone on 0300 123 2040. You can forward suspicious emails to report@phishing.gov.uk, and suspicious texts to 7726. The Metropolitan Police have created a series of Little Guides to explain some of the most common scams and give advice on how to avoid falling victim to them.

Life-threatening situation: If you or someone is in immediate danger or needs urgent medical attention, please call 999 immediately. You will be asked whether you require • Police • Ambulance • Fire Service

Working in the UK

National Insurance number Before working in the UK, you are required to obtain a National Insurance Number. You will only be able to apply for a National Insurance Number once you have arrived in the UK. Minimum Wage

It’s designed to make sure workers get a fair, basic level of pay for their work, and the rates are set by the UK government and reviewed every year. The rates can be found here: National Minimum Wage and National Living Wage rates - GOV.UK

The minimum wage is the lowest amount of pay that employers are legally required to give workers per hour of work.

Before travelling to the UK you may want to read more about the living costs for students via this link: Student living costs in the UK 2025 - Save the Student

In the UK, it’s called either: the National Minimum Wage (NMW) — for workers under 21 or apprentices, and the National Living Wage (NLW) — for workers aged 21 and over.

If something does not feel right or if you think you are being underpaid or treated unfairly while working you can get free and confidential advice from Citizens Advice.

Student Handbook 2025/2026

Working restrictions If you are studying on a full-time Student visa you are restricted to only working the hours stated on your digital immigration status (eVisa) during term-time. This should be 20 hours per week depending on your course and as outlined your eVisa. If you believe your working conditions on your eVisa is incorrect, please contact the International Student Advice (ISA) Service (isa@uel.ac.uk). Term-time is defined by the university’s academic calendar, and you can request a student status letter from the hub once you have arrived in the UK and enrolled. For the purposes of working in the UK on a Student visa, if you are studying a full-time PhD course you are considered to always be in term-term. If you are on a full-time Student visa you are not allowed to: • Be self-employed or engage in business activity • Take employment as an entertainer

- Entertainer includes singers, comedians, dancers, actors and other performers. - There is an exception if you are undertaking a work placement on a degree level of above course in music or drama. • Take employment as a professional sportsperson including a sports coach • Fill a full-time permanent vacancy • Be a Doctor or dentist in training If you are studying on a part-time Student visa, you will not have immigration permission to work. This includes placements and paid/unpaid work. Further information and guidance on working in the UK on your Student visa can be found by visiting: UKCISA. Once you enrol you can access all our immigration guidance for current students here: International Student Advice (ISA) and Immigration Compliance (sharepoint.com)

Important A lot of international students in the UK find part-time work.It is a way to enhance your skills, practice your English and meet new people. However, it is important that you must not rely on finding a job in the UK to become a substantial part of your income. According to the Immigration Rules, you should have access to sufficient funds for your living expenses whilst you are in the UK without needing to work. It can be quite difficult to find a suitable part-time job that fits in with your university timetable. A job may help contribute to your expenses whilst you are in the UK, but it must not be your only source of income.

Income Tax You pay income tax on your earnings. However, if your total annual income from all sources (apart from student loans, scholarships and educational grants) is not more than £12,570 (this figure is for the tax

year 2025/2026), you should receive your wages without tax being deducted. Please visit the UK Government website for further information.

Culture Shock

Culture Shock Culture shock is a typical process of being unfamiliar with the practices and routines of an unfamiliar environment. This experience may lead to feeling a range of emotions which can feel unsettling. We would like to reassure all international students there is support available. The process of settling into the UK and engaging within your academic studies may be that you experience culture shock, which can impact on how you engage with the university.

Some strategies to support yourself trying to manage culture shock include: • Try to take each day at a time, hour by hour • Try not to compare your journey to others – your journey is personal and unique • Find ways to manage stress for example through exercise, mindfulness, journalling • Remember things always change • Stay connected with others • Try to remember something which reminds you of home • The University have several support resources please do reach out for help. Most importantly do remember to look after yourself. Your wellbeing is important.

Student Handbook 2025/2026

Support when you need it International Student Advice (ISA) Service Our International Student Advice (ISA) Service are professionally trained to provide specific immigration advice and the service is regulated by the Immigration Advice Authority (IAA), (formerly known as OISC). If you need any advice, support or guidance on your Student visa application, understanding your Student visa responsibilities or preparing to travel to the UK please contact isa@uel.ac.uk or use the message box in your CAS shield account. Once you have travelled to the UK and enrolled you will gain access to further immigration advice and support for current enrolled students, as well as access to our daily telephone service, our monthly newsletters and our workshops. Please visit once enrolled: International Student Advice (ISA) and Immigration Compliance (sharepoint.com)

Student Money Advice and Rights Team (SMART) We appreciate that finance is one of the key considerations when applying to university. Our Student Money Advice & Rights Team (SMART) is on hand to give you advice, information and guidance on managing your finances. The team operate a number of bursary funds that can help with unexpected expenses. SMART offer a daily telephone advice service as well as weekly appointments specifically for international students. Please visit once enrolled: Student Money Advice & Rights Team (SMART) (sharepoint.com).

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Support when you need it

Student Wellbeing Service The Student Wellbeing Service would like to encourage all students to try to keep their minds healthy whilst studying at the University of East London. We understand that this can differ from student to student. Keeping your mind healthy is just as important as keeping your physical body healthy. The Student Wellbeing Service is a dedicated service who can advise on a range of emotional and wellbeing issues and offer psychological support. We recognise moving to the UK may have an impact on your wellbeing and would like to reassure you we are here to provide mental health support if needed. We offer a safe and confidential space to be able to explore issues that may be affecting your student life or ability to engage in your studies.

This could be due to anxiety, low mood, stress, bereavement or relationship issues (This list is not exhaustive). The Wellbeing service offer a range of interventions such as Counselling, Cognitive Behavioural therapy, Coaching, Stress management, Dialectical Behaviour therapy informed sessions, Sports Dock mental health scheme and more. We currently deliver a monthly international student social wellbeing group. This group was created with the support of international students with the aim to overcome loneliness, promote independent living skills and enhance overall wellbeing. The group aims to promote social connections through engagement in a range of meaningful activities such as preparing healthy smoothies, gardening, art and crafts and much more. Please visit once enrolled: Student Wellbeing Service (sharepoint.com)

Disability & Dyslexia Team If you have a disability, long-term health condition or a specific learning difference (SpLD) such as dyslexia, dyspraxia or ADHD then please contact us. We are here to ensure students are not disadvantaged whilst they are studying here at UEL.

We can put in place support arrangements for assessments, using the library or reasonable adjustments for your teaching and learning for the duration of your course. To access this support, you will need to provide medical evidence: a letter or report from a qualified medical professional or assessor. If possible, please provide us with an officially translated copy of your evidence if not in English. Please send a copy of your medical evidence to ddac@uel.ac.uk and we will contact you to arrange a registration appointment with our team. You can also book an appointment with our team via the Student Hub on +44 (0)20 8223 4444.

Student Handbook 2025/2026

Academic Tutoring team There are many new skills required to transfer your subject knowledge into a good written form for essays and reports. The Academic Tutors are here to work with you on the writing and maths skills that you will need to achieve success in your assignments. There are academic writing self-help guides and resources to work through in your own time. These will enable you to develop your competency in topics such as grammar and punctuation, referencing and reading and note-taking. We also offer appointments, in-person and online, where one of our team will be happy to look at your work and offer advice and answer any questions you may have about your academic writing or maths. You can also submit your assignments to our MyFeedback service, where our team will help you identify areas for development on grammar, structure and referencing (including plagiarism). You will be able to access all our resources and support, once you are enrolled as a UEL student. Please visit this link once enrolled for more information about the team and what we offer: Academic Tutoring

Support when you need it

Chaplaincy The Chaplaincy team at UEL is made up of authorised faith leaders from Christian, Hindu, Jewish, Muslim, and Buddhist traditions. Our Chaplaincy is a place for students of all faiths and none. We understand the importance of faith and spirituality, particularly when navigating a new and unfamiliar environment. We are here to help you to explore and celebrate your faith or belief during your time at UEL. We can help connect you to a local faith community, provide specific religious support and guidance, or just provide a confidential, safe, non-judgemental space for you to talk about anything that is of importance to you (whether faith-related or not). We have regular drop-in sessions at the Faith and Reflection Centre or you can book directly some time for a one-to-one conversation with a Chaplain. For further information, once you are enrolled, please visit our page here: Chaplaincy (sharepoint.com) or contact the Chaplaincy Manager, Revd Dr James Grenfell - chaplaincy@uel.ac.uk. Once you enrol you will gain access to all the support services within the University to assist you on your journey. Please see details of further support services Student Support | University of East London (uel.ac.uk) and career guidance Career Zone | University of East London (uel.ac.uk)

Useful links

Visa and Immigration Advice www.uel.ac.uk/international/visa-immigration-advice Contact Us: www.uel.ac.uk/about/contact-us MyPortal: myportal.uel.ac.uk

Third-Party Website Disclaimer

This handbook contains links to third-party websites provided in good faith for your convenience and additional information. However, the University of East London (UEL) does not approve, endorse, or make any representations regarding the accuracy, reliability, or content of any external sites. UEL accepts no responsibility or liability for the content, or privacy practices of third-party websites, nor for any loss, or other consequences that may arise from your access to or use of them. Access to external links is entirely at your own discretion and risk.