Living in the UK
Essential information for international students moving to the UK to study at UWS.
Welcome to UWS
Click below for a welcome message to our international students from UWS Vice-Principal Jonathan Powles
International Student Support Welcome Guide
Useful information to help you settle into your new surroundings at UWS.
Download the 2022-23 International Student Welcome Guide (PDF)To find out further information about how to open a bank account and register with a GP (doctor) please watch the short video below.
Choosing Where to Live
While renting privately may seem a cheaper option, the monthly rent won't include any household bills. Take a look at our university accommodation and our private rental guide to decide what is best for you.
Creating Confidence - British Council
Guide created by the British Council to make sure that your time studying in the UK is safe and enjoyable
Download (PDF)First Steps - British Council
A pre-departure guide created by the British Council for international students coming to study in the UK.
Download (PDF)International Student Advisers
UWS’s team of International Student Advisers (ISAs) are authorised by the Office of the Immigration Services Commissioner (OISC) to provide Level 1 immigration advice to our international students.
ISAs can advise on matters such as:
- Applying for a student visa including eligibility and financial requirements
- Protecting Tier 4 / Student visa status
- Bringing dependents to the UK
- Working during your studies
- Working after your studies including the Doctorate Extension Scheme (DES) and the Start Up visa.
As well as providing advice and guidance, the team also organise workshops and multicultural events such as Celebrate Culture and International Student Day. Please have a look at one of our events:
UK Council for International Student Affairs
The UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) is the UK's national advisory body serving the interests of international students and those who work with them.
The UKCISA website provides comprehensive advice for international students studying and living in the UK.
For urgent enquiries, they also operate a telephone advice line for international students: 0207 788 9214.
Discover Scotland
The International Student Support Team normally organise a number of trips around Scotland. These are an opportunity for students to see more of Scotland, learn about Scottish culture and meet new friends. The trips take place throughout the year and are open to all students. Unfortunately these are currently postponed due to the pandemic and they will resume once government guidelines allow this.
Previous trips have included Edinburgh Castle, Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle, St. Andrews and the Kelpies. Tickets can be bought through the UWS online store. For further information on these trips contact internationaladvice@uws.ac.uk
Visit the Online Store
Highland Games
St Andrews - Castle Stairs
St Andrews - Castle
St Andrews - Harbour
Puffer - Vital Spark
Last updated: 07/09/2022