Checklist

There are many things to consider when you start a course as an international student. In addition to the normal things to consider when beginning a course at university, international students must also think about all the logistical aspects of moving to another country. 

Here is a checklist of all the things to think about before and after you arrive at the university. 

Before you travel

Download the Beacon App 

Beacon is your go-to digital coach. You can use it to access all of the university systems, and you can also ask questions about anything you need to know about life at the UK or at the University. 

Log in to your student email account 

Whilst you are a student, your student email address is your primary account for all university-related emails. The university will only contact you at this email, and you will start receiving emails at this address once you receive your invitation to complete your online enrolment. This email account uses two-factor authentication, which means you will need to set up a phone number to access your account.

Complete “Start at Staffs” on Blackboard 

You'll soon have access to the ‘Start at Staffs’ learning package which is designed to give you a head start in preparing for university. It isn’t compulsory, but we recommend you look through as it’s filled with lots of useful information, from connecting to Wi-Fi and applications you will be using, to preparing for your first assignment, and also includes information on support teams who can help you make the most of your university experience.

Complete the mandatory modules on the International Orientation Portal 

In addition to Start at Staffs on Blackboard, International students have their own portal to help them understand their life in the UK as an international student. This portal includes important information about your visa responsibilities, the NHS and more. The invitation to register will be sent to your student email address.

If you have not received the invitation, contact student-support@staffs.ac.uk.

Complete Online enrolment 

You will need to complete your online enrolment before you can get access to the various systems you will need as a student. You should do this well in advance so you can begin familiarising yourself with different systems and get access to your timetable. 

Make sure you understand your visa responsibilities 

It is vital that you understand your Student Visa responsibilities and particularly your working conditions whilst in the UK. Before you travel, you should ensure you have linked your eVisa to your UKVI account and can generate a share code to prove your immigration status.

If you are not on a Student Visa, ensure you understand your responsibilities as a Visitor.

Arrange your accommodation 

Make sure you have arranged your accommodation and know when you will be able to move in. Some accommodation providers will want you to enrol as a student before you can collect your keys. If this is the case, make sure you have temporary accommodation (such as a hotel, Airbnb or staying with family) arranged until you can move in. 

Some landlords will ask for a guarantor. If you are struggling to provide a guarantor, the Students’ Union does offer this service. You can learn more about YourGuarantor.

After you arrive

Book and Attend your English assessment 

If you are here on a Student Visa, and your country of origin is one that requires proof of English proficiency as part of the visa application, you will need to attend an English assessment before you complete your face-to-face enrolment. 

Complete your Face-to-face enrolment 

Everyone with a non-UK nationality must attend a face-to-face enrolment in person to complete their registration at the university. You may not be invited to attend until you have already completed your online enrolment, English assessment and completed your compulsory modules on the International Portal, so be sure to complete these first and avoid unnecessary delays. 

Please bear in mind that face-to-face enrolment works with an appointment system. You should not come to campus without an appointment and expect to enrol. Please wait until you have been sent a link to book an appointment. 

Register with a GP (general practitioner) 

You must register with a local doctor so you can seek healthcare when you need it. If you are attending your course at the Stoke campus, you can do this when you register as a student on the NHS website. If you are studying at a different campus or would like to register with a doctor nearer to your accommodation, you can find a GP on the NHS website. 

Read more about Healthcare in the UK.

Open a bank account 

You may find that it is more convenient to open a UK bank account than to continue to use your overseas account. Banks will not generally allow you to open an account until you have completed your enrolment. When choosing a bank, look for one that offers bank accounts specifically for students. 

Once you enrol, you will be able to generate a bank letter using the Beacon App.

Read more about Banking and Finance

Take part in welcome activities 

There are many welcome activities going on during Welcome Week. Be sure to check out the What’s On page for more information. 

Contact Home 

You will, no doubt, have people back home who are thinking about you. Be sure to check in with your family and friends and let them know you have arrived safely and are ready for your new adventure!