International Student Guide
Pre-arrival and orientation information
2
This pre-arrival and orientation guide has been produced for students who
are coming to study at Cambridge from outside the UK. It provides practical
guidance on coming to live and study in Cambridge from an international
student perspective and information on some of the University’s central support
services. Its intention is to complement other sources of guidance you are likely to
receive as part of your induction from your College and other bodies such as the
Cambridge University Students’ Union.
Accommodation
3
Council Tax
4
Travelling Around Cambridge
5
Travelling in the UK
7
Healthcare
8
Living in the UK
11
Working in the UK
12
Living in Cambridge
14
Homesickness
17
University Services
20
Immigration Requirements
25
Pre-arrival checklist
29
Cambridge Terminology
31
Other sources of Information
34
Welcome
Contents
Cover Photograph by Sir Cam
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If you are not taking accommodation in your College, the University’s
Accommodation Service will be able to help you find a suitable place to live.
Register with them via www.accommodation.cam.ac.uk and you will be sent login
and password information so that you can search their database. They will be able
to assist with two types of properties:
• University-owned or managed accommodation which is located throughout the
City. These are usually self-contained flats and houses, not rooms, both furnished
and unfurnished. They are generally available for a minimum period of one year
and can be booked prior to arriving in Cambridge.
• Private accommodation which is located throughout the City and the
surrounding villages. There are rooms available in houses shared with landlords
or with fellow students, along with whole houses and flats. We would strongly
advise you to view a property in person, or have a reliable contact view, before
agreeing to a contract with a landlord. The Accommodation Service has a
large list of temporary accommodation where you can stay whilst looking for a
suitable longer-term option.
Although properties are available online, once you have registered you are very
welcome to contact the Accommodation Service by email, or book an appointment
to visit their office for further advice and guidance. We can offer advice on tenancy
related issues and other guidance about living in Cambridge.
Temporary accommodation on arrival
You may require temporary accommodation when you first arrive in Cambridge.
A list of temporary accommodation is available via ‘Visit Cambridge’ on the front
page of the Accommodation Service website. This type of accommodation is in high
demand at the start of the academic year.
Accommodation Scams
An increasing number of accommodation to rent scams appear on the internet.
These look highly credible – some have genuine addresses with realistic photos of
a room – but regrettably the room or property is not actually available to rent, does
not belong to the advertiser and should never have been listed. The advice is not
to sign up for accommodation, especially for a room, via a website that is not the
University’s Accommodation Service, unless you are very certain that it is genuine.
You are welcome to contact the Service to check and to seek advice before you
hand over any money.
Accommodation
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Council tax is paid to the local authorities for services they provide and applies
to residential properties. Full-time students on courses of one academic year (9
months) or longer are normally exempt from having to pay council tax if they live
in University accommodation or private accommodation where everyone who lives
in the property is a full time student. If these are your circumstances, you can apply
for an exemption. If you are living within the boundaries of Cambridge City Council,
you can do this online at
www.cambridge.gov.uk/discounts-for-students-and-school-leavers
Your spouse and / or children are also exempt if they are in the UK as your visa
dependants. If your spouse and / or children are nationals of a country in the
European Economic Area, however, it is likely council tax will need to be paid for
adults 18 years old or over and not in full-time education. For further information,
visit www.cambridge.gov.uk/council-tax
Council Tax
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Cycling
Cambridge is one of the top cycling cities in the UK and cycling is the most popular
way for students to travel around. There are a number of places you can buy new or
second-hand bikes. You can also look on the noticeboards at your College or check
on cycle auction websites.
It is important to remember:
• We drive on the left-hand side of the road in the UK.
• You cannot cycle on the pavement unless it is specifically marked for dual use.
• Wear a helmet.
• You need lights on your bike as it is a legal requirement at night – white for the
front and red for the back.
• A good lock is advisable as bike theft is common.
• A bell and mudguards can be useful.
• Be respectful to others and do not cycle in pedestrian areas or on pavements,
which is illegal unless they are designated cycle paths.
Further rules for cyclist are outlined in the UK Highway Code:
www.gov.uk/rules-for-cyclists-59-to-82
If you haven’t cycled before or haven’t been on a bike for a long time, there is useful
information to get started at www.camcycle.org.uk/resources/training
Buses
Buses are another way to get around Cambridge. The University subsidises the
Universal bus service which provides a service to many University sites, including
connections between Addenbrooke’s and the city centre, Cambridge Railway
Station, West Cambridge and Eddington. Further information is outlined at
www.environment.admin.cam.ac.uk/travel/catch-bus
Taxis
Taxis can be an expensive way to get around Cambridge. There are a number of
different taxi companies in Cambridge which can be booked over the telephone.
There are also two main taxi ranks in the centre; Drummer Street (near the bus
station and Emmanuel College) and on St Andrew’s Street (near Lion Yard and
Christ’s College). There is also a taxi rank at the train station.
Travelling around Cambridge
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Driving
Students are normally not allowed to have a car or other motor vehicle whilst at the
University due to the traffic regulations of the city. If it is necessary for you to have a
vehicle, you must have a licence issued by the Motor Proctor. Further information is
available at www.proctors.cam.ac.uk/motor-proctor
Driving in Cambridge can be difficult with its high traffic volume, narrow streets and
expensive parking. You must have a valid licence and adequate insurance.
If you are from within the European Economic Area, you can drive as long as your
licence remains valid.
If you are from outside the European Economic Area, you can drive for 12 months
on your current driving licence or international driving permit. You can take a test
and obtain a British licence once you have been here 6 months and must have done
so within the 12 months to ensure you can continue to drive legally. There are some
exceptions to this depending on where your licence was issued and full information
is available at www.gov.uk/driving-nongb-licence
Walking
This is, of course, the cheapest option and as Cambridge is relatively small many
students choose to walk around the city.
Maps
An interactive map of Cambridge, showing University Colleges, Departments and
Faculties, is available at https://map.cam.ac.uk
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Travelling in the UK
Trains are usually the most convenient way to travel to other parts of Britain.
Tickets should be booked in advance and as early as possible to save money.
Tickets are generally available 12 weeks before the date of travel. There are
various online train booking sites that offer discounted tickets or you can book
direct from National Rail: www.nationalrail.co.uk
If you are aged 16-25, or a full-time student aged 26 or older, you can apply for a
discount railcard which costs £30 for one year and can save you 1/3 off most rail
fares across Britain: www.16-25railcard.co.uk/
Trains from Cambridge to London’s King’s Cross run frequently. Direct trains can
take 50 minutes to 1 hour 25 minutes depending on the route. The last train
back to Cambridge from Kings Cross is around midnight. The tube is the fastest
way to travel in London and the cheapest way is with an Oyster card, a plastic
smartcard which holds pay as you go credit, or a contactless bank card.
https://tfl.gov.uk/fares/
Coaches are a cheaper alternative to trains but usually take longer. Coaches
leave from Parkside next to Parker’s Piece. Tickets should be booked in advance.
National Express coaches run from Cambridge to all different parts of Britain:
www.nationalexpress.com If you’re a full-time student, the Young Persons
Coachcard allows you to save 1/3 on standard fares.
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The National Health Service (NHS) is the UK’s state healthcare system providing a
wide range of health care services including appointments with a doctor, hospital
treatment and dental care.
You should register with a doctor as soon as possible after your arrival in
Cambridge. Your College will give advice on this and may recommend a Doctor’s
surgery (known as General Practitioner or GP). You will need your passport and a
letter from your College as proof you are a student.
The GP will be your first point of contact for your health needs and you must be
referred to a specialist by your GP. If you are feeling unwell whilst in College, let your
College know. Most Colleges have a nurse who will be able to give you advice and
may arrange for a doctor to visit you.
EEA nationals
Non-UK European Economic Area (EEA) nationals and their family are advised to
obtain a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) before coming to the UK.
For further information visit
www.internationalstudents.cam.ac.uk/arriving/healthcare-uk
Also see the additional information on the EU Settlement Scheme on page 28.
Tier 4 students
Students on a Tier 4 student visa and coming to the UK for 6 months or longer will
have paid an immigration health surcharge as part of their visa application fee. This
entitles students to access NHS care free of charge in the same way as a permanent
UK resident. You may need to pay for dental and optical treatment as well as for
any medicine prescribed by the doctor and collected from a Pharmacy for which
there is normally a standard charge of £9 per item. If you need to have continued
medication, you may find it cheaper to get a Prescription Pre-payment Certificate:
www.gov.uk/get-a-ppc
Healthcare
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Courses less than six months
If your course is for less than six months and you are from a non-EEA country, 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 in a medical emergency and this is
limited. Some countries have a reciprocal agreement with the UK which may entitle
you to some free healthcare on the NHS even if your course is less than six months
but you should seek advice from the health authorities in your home country about
what treatment will be covered.
Long term health conditions
If you have a long term health condition, bring documentary evidence from the
doctor in your home country (in English) and provide this when you register with a
doctor in the UK. You may wish to ask for an appointment to discuss your needs.
If you are receiving on-going medical treatment or taking medication, bring
with you a Doctor’s certificate (in English) confirming the treatment and / or any
medication you are receiving. If you need ongoing medication in the UK, the GP
reception will explain how they arrange repeat prescriptions for when you are
anticipating your first supply of medication to run out. It can take up to 48 hours
to obtain a repeat prescription. Prior to travelling to the UK, it is advisable to check
with your transport provider what medications you are allowed to carry with you
and what you can take through customs.
GPs reserve the right not to prescribe certain medication and not all medication
from outside the UK is available on the NHS. Your GP will sometimes be unable
to prescribe the medication you are taking, because it is not used in the UK or
because of NHS prescribing restrictions. If you have specialised medication or
you are in any doubt, you are advised to bring a supply with you. If you are taking
medication prescribed for ADHD you must bring evidence of your diagnosis from a
specialist psychiatrist – without this GPs in the UK will not be able to issue you with
a prescription if you run out.
Private Medical Insurance
It is your decision whether you also have private healthcare insurance. You may wish
to consider this to cover the following potential health-related costs:
• Loss of fees if you are unable to complete your course;
• Costs incurred returning to your home country for treatment;
• Private medical treatment which may offer provision over and above the NHS
healthcare treatment.
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.
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Emergency Medical Care
If you require urgent emergency medical assistance and are unable to travel to
the hospital, either contact your College Porters’ Lodge if you are living in College
accommodation or dial 999 free from any phone and ask for the ambulance service.
The nearest Accident and Emergency department is at Addenbrooke’s hospital. If
you need urgent treatment, but you are well enough to travel, you can also make
your own way to the hospital’s Accident and Emergency (A&E) department, or ask a
friend to take you.
Dental Care
Once you have registered with a GP you can also register with an NHS dentist. You
can ask your College for further advice on where to register. You will have to pay for
some dental services.
Optical Care
Eye care is provided by high street opticians, of which there are many in Cambridge.
To purchase spectacles or contact lenses you will need a British eye prescription,
which you get from the optician following a sight test. Sight tests can be arranged
by contacting the optician directly. The cost of frames, lenses and contact lenses
varies.
Family and friends
Please note that family or friends visiting from abroad should take adequate health
care insurance.
Photograph by Sir Cam
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National holidays
There are eight public holidays in the UK known as ‘Bank Holidays’ when offices,
banks, and many shops will be closed and public transport will be more limited.
However, lectures and examinations still may be given on the Bank Holidays that
take place during Full Term. A full list of the UK’s national holidays is available at
www.gov.uk/bank-holidays
Safety
The British Council has produced some useful guides and webpages with advice
and support for international students: https://study-uk.britishcouncil.org/moving-
uk/support-guidance
It is advisable:
• to keep your passport (and visa) in a safe place.
• not to carry around large amounts of cash. You can use your bank card to pay for
things.
• in an emergency call 999 free from any phone. This connects to the police, fire
brigade or ambulance service. To report a non-emergency minor crime call 101.
Contents Insurance
If you are living in College, find out if the College has an insurance policy which
covers personal possessions. Most do not in which case, along with those in
private accommodation, you should consider taking out insurance to cover loss of
personal property. It may be cheaper to take out insurance in your home country
before travelling to the UK. Alternatively there are a number of companies in the
UK that offer specialist insurance for international students. The most well-known
for students is Endsleigh Insurance (www.endsleigh.co.uk) but it is advisable to
research into a range of offers and ensure you fully understand what is covered by
the policy.
Electricity
The voltage of mains electricity in the UK is 240v. Electrical equipment rated at
230v or 240v will function normally. Equipment rated at 220v may function, but it
is advisable to check with the manufacturer before using it in the UK. The standard
plug in the UK is a three-pin model. Do not bring any electrical items that need
mains power unless they are dual voltage 110-120/220-240v (for example, a laptop
computer). It may be advisable to buy small electrical items in the UK as this will
save you the cost of a transformer. Converters for other models used in continental
Europe and the Americas are widely available.
Living in the UK
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Television
It’s a legal requirement to obtain a TV licence to watch or record programmes as
they are being shown on TV or live on an online TV service, and to download or
watch BBC programmes on BBC iPlayer. A TV licence can be purchased online, by
telephone, or at a ‘PayPoint Outlet’ and costs £154.50 a year. For further information
and FAQs, visit www.tvlicensing.co.uk
Mobile Phones
You may wish to purchase a mobile phone in the UK. There are two main options:
• ‘Pay-as-you-go’ where you buy the phone and separately purchase ‘top-up’
credit when you need it.
• A contract where the phone is often free or considerably discounted and you
pay a monthly fee for an allocated amount of calls, texts and mobile data usage.
There are many network providers to choose from so it is advisable to undertake
some research online or visit a mobile phone shop to discuss your options.
You may be able to use your current mobile phone in the UK. Check with your
mobile phone provider before arriving if the phone will work in the UK and
whether there are any additional costs. Alternatively if your phone is ‘unlocked’
and compatible, you could buy an international or UK SIM card to use your existing
phone.
The University places restrictions on full-time students working during their studies:
Undergraduate students are expected not to work during term-time. Term dates
for undergraduate students are outlined at
www.cam.ac.uk/about-the-university/term-dates-and-calendars
Masters students are expected not to work during term-time. Students should
consult their Faculty and Department for further details regarding official vacation
dates.
Graduate research students undertaking a course of more than 12 months may
work up to a maximum of ten hours per week with the approval of both their
Supervisor and College Tutor. The work undertaken should be academic-related,
related to professional or career development, or outreach work on behalf of the
University. Students who receive funding should also check that the terms and
conditions of their funding permits them to undertake work. The academic year for
Working in the UK
13
graduate research students is continuous throughout the year (1st October - 30th
September). Students may take breaks for holidays, up to a maximum of eight
weeks a year, at times agreed with their Supervisor but such periods are not to be
used to undertake work.
In addition to the University’s restrictions, students on a Tier 4 visa must ensure
they fully understand and comply with the working conditions of their immigration
permission, including restrictions on the type of work permitted.
Detailed information is outlined at
www.internationalstudents.cam.ac.uk/tier-4-responsibilities/working-tier-4-visa
National Insurance number
Anybody who works in the UK needs a National Insurance (NI) number which is a
unique personal reference number which will be required for tax and employment
purposes. Depending on how much you earn per week, you may be required to pay
NI contributions and Income Tax.
Information is outlined at www.gov.uk/student-jobs-paying-tax
To apply for an NI number, you need to telephone the application line on 0800 141 2075,
Monday – Friday, 8am – 6pm. During the telephone call you can expect to be asked
for your personal details, such as name, date of birth, nationality and UK residential
address, as well as the date you arrived in the UK. If you have a UK visa, have this
with you when you call as you may be asked for details. For call charges and
additional information, visit www.gov.uk/apply-national-insurance-number
Following your telephone conversation, you may be asked to attend an interview or
complete a postal application. For an interview, you will be sent a letter confirming
the date, time and location and what documentation you need to bring to confirm
your identity. If asked to make a postal application, you will be sent an application
form with information on what documents you will need to send. You can usually
send photocopies but ensure you follow the instructions you are sent with the form.
The issuance of an NI number is free of charge.
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There are various websites that can help you navigate your way around Cambridge
and provide information on shopping, eating out and local events.
www.cambridgebid.co.uk - this website gives a great overview of local events,
experiences, and initiatives in the city.
Other sites such as ‘Cambridge Edition’ provide information on places to eat, visit
and stay, as well as special offers and reviews.
Religious Organisations
Most Colleges have a chapel in which Church of England (Anglican) services are
held during term. All members of the College can participate, whatever their
religious beliefs or denomination. The College Chaplain organises the religious life
of the College and should be able to help and give advice to all members of College
(regardless of their religious beliefs) if required. Great St Mary’s is the University
Church, but Cambridge has a wide variety of churches and other places of worship
including: Catholic Church (Corner of Lensfield Rd and Hills Rd), Eden Baptist
Church (Eden Street, near the Grafton Centre), Presbyterian Church (near Wolfson
College), and Cambridge Mosque (on Mawson Road). There are two synagogues
in Cambridge: The Orthodox Synagogue (Thompson’s Lane) and The Reform
Synagogue, Beth Shalom.
In addition, there are a large number of religious societies amongst the many
student societies at the University: www.cam.ac.uk/societies
Supermarkets
There is a supermarket in Cambridge City Centre located on Sidney Street (across
from Sidney Sussex College)
Living in Cambridge
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Markets
There is a market every day on Market Square selling a range of items such as food,
baked goods, coffee, homewards, vegetables, sweets, clothes, books, and music:
www.cambridge.gov.uk/markets
There is a general market from Monday to Saturday (10am-4pm) which offers
products from fruit and cheese to books and bike repairs. On Sunday, also 10am-
4pm, the same area becomes an Arts & Crafts and Local Produce Market. The traders
on a Sunday make or produce their own goods.
Shopping centres and places to eat
Cambridge has three major central shopping areas:
• Grand Arcade; is located at the heart of the city at St Andrew’s Street. For more
information see www.grandarcade.co.uk
• The Grafton; a short distance from Christ’s Pieces. This shopping centre contains
over 60 stores as well as food and drink outlets and a multiplex cinema.
www.graftoncentre.co.uk
• Lion Yard shopping centre comprises two floors full of shops. The centre can be
reached from Petty Cury, St Andrews Street or Market Square
www.thelionyard.co.uk
There are many more shopping and eating areas with something to suit everyone.
In particular:
• Mill Road is very popular for its cosmopolitan feel and international food shops.
Visit the community website for a virtual tour of the street and find more
information about the shops, restaurants and services.
• Newmarket Road has more supermarkets, clothes shops and a selection of
homeware stores at the Cambridge Retail Park and the Beehive Centre.
• Regent Street has a number of restaurants offering a range of international
cuisine.
Cinemas, theatres and music
Cambridge has two multiplex cinemas: “Vue”, located in The Grafton, and
“The Light Cinema” which forms part of the Cambridge Leisure centre, south of
the city centre. For foreign language films, livestream of theatre as well as general
releases you can go to the Arts Picturehouse, near Emmanuel College.
Cambridge’s main theatres are the ADC Theatre (the University’s theatre),
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Cambridge Arts Theatre and Mumford Theatre. Concerts and other performances
take place in Cambridge Junction (located next to the Leisure Centre) and the Corn
Exchange, while many pubs hold regular live music events. Yet more events can
be found at the West Road Concert Hall, housed within the University’s Faculty of
Music.
Museums
Cambridge has many museums, most of which are free to enter. Pay a visit to the
Fitzwilliam Museum or any other site listed at
www.cam.ac.uk/museums-and-collections
Punting
A famous pastime for students is punting: propelling a small flat bottomed boat
down the river Cam using a pole. It’s an excellent way to see the backs of the
Colleges and much of the town itself. Many of the river Colleges own punts but all
students can get discounted deals either from one of the punting companies or the
Colleges themselves.
Colleges
Your college will be your home away from home. As a Cambridge student you
will also have free access to all the colleges, some of which have been around for
hundreds of years. For more information on opening hours you can visit the website
of the college you are interested in: http://map.cam.ac.uk/colleges/
Photograph by Sir Cam
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The decision to study at Cambridge brings the opportunity to make new friends,
to expand your academic knowledge, and to change your existing view of the
world. But in common with any major transition, it also brings challenges. Feeling
homesick can be one of them, even if you’ve already lived abroad. It is one of the
emotional states that can be a part of what is known as culture shock.
Homesickness is a common experience for international students- and for many
British students who have left home for the first time. It can affect people in
different forms: e.g. coming in waves, or slowly building up over time. Sometimes
it seems more like a physical illness, e.g. feeling tired, unwell, or lacking in energy. It
can appear when you’re not expecting it- for example, when things have gone well.
The trigger in this case can be having no one really close or special with whom to
share the experience.
Symptoms of homesickness can include:
• Feeling down-hearted, tearful or anxious
• Feeling lost or lonely
• Longing and grief for your former life
• Being unable to stop contacting people at home or feeling withdrawn and not
wanting to engage with the current environment
• Being absent-minded, or finding it difficult to concentrate
• Feeling unwell
• Brooding on the past
Common triggers may include:
• When the ‘honeymoon period’ has worn off, i.e. Cambridge no longer seems
wonderful or exciting
• When you have doubts about your decision to study here
• When the demands of your course have become more real, and your self-
confidence is affected
• If the local culture feels confusing, unwelcoming, or just too different
• If you miss a major celebration, holiday, family reunion or important event
happening at home
• When a crisis occurs and your parents, friends or partner aren’t there to provide
help and support
• If friends leave Cambridge, or if you spend long periods of time here when
others have gone back home
Homesickness
18
There may be other causes, depending on your particular circumstances. But the
most important thing to remember is that homesickness is normal. Be patient with
yourself as you adjust. Try to accept that feeling comfortable in Cambridge will take
some time. It helps if you can encourage yourself, and if you can remember that
you are not alone in feeling this way.
Things you can do to cope with homesickness:
• Leave your room
It can be tempting to seek the security of your own space, but don’t hide in your
room for too long. Reach out to others. Invite people for a cup of tea or coffee, or
for a meal. Go into town, for a walk by the river, or see a film. Don’t be afraid to
talk about your experience of homesickness, but try to stay positive.
• Consider how much time you spend in contact with the people
back home
If you keep in touch infrequently, you’ll miss the support that you crave from the
people who are important to you. But if you rely on them too much, you may risk
becoming overly-dependent. Try to strike a reasonable balance to get the best of
both worlds, with the aim of developing a new sense of your own independence.
• Do something
Meeting up with others from your own culture can be an antidote to loneliness,
and an essential source of comfort. But it’s equally important to leave your
comfort zone from time to time. The opportunities in Cambridge are many and
varied- get involved, and get busy! Join a student society, play a sport, volunteer,
try a new type of food. Attend one of the many performances, lectures, and
events that regularly take place across the University and Colleges.
• Find a way to process your experiences
Many international students post blogs, keep journals, take photographs, or find
other mediums to help them get through times of homesickness and culture
shock. A photo journal or blog can become a way of documenting your life at
Cambridge, sharing with others what you experienced, what you’ve learned, and
how you faced up to any obstacles along the journey.
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• Get out of Cambridge
Cambridge has many riches, but it’s still a place that can feel small at times.
Escape the ‘Cambridge Bubble’ to take in some of the glorious sights within the
UK. London is less than an hour away by train, and the cities of Europe aren’t very
far either. Plan trips to break up the time, and to reward yourself when you’ve
accomplished a goal, or met an important academic deadline.
• If it doesn’t get any easier
If you continue to feel very upset and lonely, or nothing seems to make a
difference, consider talking things over in confidence with one of the counsellors
at the University Counselling Service. For more information about how to request
an appointment, go to: www.counselling.cam.ac.uk
Photograph by Sir Cam
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The University has a range of central support services for students.
International Student Office
The International Student Office provides specialist support to international
students at Cambridge. If you have any questions about the information provided
in this guide or you have a query related to coming to live and study in the UK that
has not been included, email internationalstudents@admin.cam.ac.uk. This office
also provides a visa advice service and has responsibility for ensuring institutional
student immigration compliance.
Careers Service
The Careers Service welcomes the chance to support students from all parts of
the globe as you research and plan your career in your home, or another, country.
Careers services in the UK operate differently to the ones you may be used to;
our Careers Service does not pre-select students for specific jobs, nor forward
CVs to employers, for example. The Service’s focus is on providing careers related
information and guidance - helping you identify your career interests; target
employers or postgraduate courses; make effective applications and perform well
at interviews and other selection events; and develop career planning skills which
you can continue to use after leaving Cambridge. You will have access to employers
via several major annual recruitment events, numerous employer presentations and
skills sessions all hosted in Cambridge.
The Careers Service’s website at www.careers.cam.ac.uk lists over 5,500 graduate
level vacancies and internships each year, across all employment sectors, many of
them outside the UK. You can search these using the name of a country or its main
cities. Linked from the website is GoinGlobal which allows you to source more
opportunities across the globe by country and city. We suggest you register early
on the Careers Service’s website during your time at Cambridge: many employment
opportunities and events are only offered at the beginning of the academic year.
The ‘International Students’ section of our website provides information on UK
post-graduation options, including visa information: http://www.careers.cam.ac.uk/
students/international/index.asp
To keep track of our events and other news, it’s important that you follow the
Careers Service on social media via Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Instagram – just
search ‘unicamcareers’.
University Services
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Counselling and Support
All international students are welcome to contact the University Counselling
Service, which offers confidential help and support to over 2000 students each year.
The Service is staffed by a team of professionally qualified counsellors, University
Sexual Assault and Harassment Advisors (SAHA), and Mental Health Advisors (MHA)
who are familiar with the difficulties that can be encountered by international
students, coming from a wide range of backgrounds, religions, and cultures.
Counselling can help with homesickness and adjusting to a new culture, as well
as other common student difficulties including anxiety, stress, low mood, and
academic concerns. Many personal, relationship or identity problems can be helped
through counselling, e.g. family difficulties, bereavement, issues with self-esteem
and confidence, or dealing with difficult dilemmas and decisions.
Many of our workshops can help you adjust to the Cambridge environment
and make the most of your time here: https://www.counselling.cam.ac.uk/
studentcouns/studentgroups
The Service is available throughout the year except for the Christmas closure period.
To request an appointment, please see the website www.counselling.cam.ac.uk
The Language Centre
The Language Centre provides language learning opportunities to students
throughout the University. With a resource bank encompassing books, CDs,
CDROMs, live satellite TV in 12 languages, recorded international news, a suite of
online programmes and a collection of over 1,000 films from around the world, the
Language Centre is a ‘must-see’ for all language enthusiasts at Cambridge.
The John Trim Centre houses self-study resources in over 170 languages
(including English, of course) and a dedicated Advising Team who offer one-to-
one appointments and workshops to support you in planning your studies and
developing your language learning strategies to sustain your progress. They also
offer help with selecting learning materials and run a range of workshops and study
groups to encourage collaborative learning.
We also run a very popular Conversation Exchange Scheme, which encourages
students to pair up with a native speaker of the language they are interested in so
that they can arrange to meet up to actively practise their language skills - in both
languages.
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In addition to our static resources, the Language Centre is constantly extending its
online resources, including the development by the Language Centre’s Technical
Section of high quality, interactive learning materials which are available to all
members of the University, via LC Online.
If you are looking to brush up, start or further your abilities in a foreign (i.e.
non-English) language, then check out what’s on offer by the CULP (Cambridge
University Language Programmes) team. They offer taught language courses
at various levels and for various purposes in French, German, Spanish, Italian,
Mandarin Chinese, Russian, Arabic, Japanese, Portuguese, Greek, Urdu, Persian,
Swahili, Modern Greek, Hebrew and Turkish.
The Language Centre also runs Advanced Discussion Groups in a range of
languages allowing advanced students to maintain their spoken ability. Check out
our website for details of which groups are running this term.
Academic Development and Training for International Students
Based in the Language Centre, the Academic Development and Training Section
for International Students supports all international students at the University in
all aspects of academic literacy skills. Whether you are looking to strengthen your
discipline-specific writing skills, further train and fine tune your presentation skills,
or whether you just want to develop your academic communication skills more
generally, then you will find what you are looking for on the In-Sessional Support
Programme.
The mainstay of this programme are the supervisions where you work one on one
with one of the teaching team to receive focused support and tailored training to
make you a more efficient and effective academic communicator. In addition to
this, we run 2-3 workshops per week during term on a range of different aspects
of academic literacy which you can sign up for. Everyone on the In-Sessional can
also sign up for 1.5 hours of individual vocal training as well as individual Coaching
sessions on such areas as Active Listening, Communication Skills, and Study Block &
Procrastination.
If it’s just relaxed but guided social English you are looking for, then the English
Conversation Hours may be what you are looking for. Meeting once a week during
term, the aim of these sessions is to take a different social or current affairs topic
each week and explore it in terms of language, and where appropriate, consider the
cultural connotations.
We are also continually expanding our range of online courseware, covering such
topics as What is Academic English?, Achieving Clarity, Approaches to Editing
and Discipline-specific Argumentation. These are freely available for all registered
members of the University. Three of our Pre-Arrival online modules aimed at
preparing you to hit the ground running when you get to Cambridge are also
available via the International Students website.
For more information on all the Language Centre resources and courses, check out
our website: www.langcen.cam.ac.uk
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Academic related disability support
There are hundreds of international disabled students at Cambridge. The Disability
Resource Centre (DRC) supports students with specific learning difficulties (such
as dyslexia), mental health conditions, physical and sensory impairments, Autism
spectrum conditions and long-term health conditions. It is important that you let
us know if you have a disability before you start at Cambridge, as this allows us to
assess and plan any support you may require.
DRC Disability Advisers can provide advice and guidance regarding such support
requirements. This support may include non-medical help such as mentoring, lab
assistance, or specialist study skills, as well as assistive technology and software.
There is a fund for support for international students, available through the DRC
https://www.disability.admin.cam.ac.uk/funding-students/eu-and-international-
students
The DRC service is confidential and free of charge. For more information go to www.
disability.admin.cam.ac.uk
Childcare and support for families
The University’s Childcare Office oversees the facilities and assistance offered to
University staff and students with children.
The University has three nurseries.  Two of the nurseries are open to students
offering places for children from three months to school age. West Cambridge
Nursery has 20 FTE student places and Eddington Nursery has 8 FTE student places.
The Childcare Office also provides Holiday Playscheme facilities at St Mary’s Junior
School and Chesterton Community College, which operate during the state school
holiday periods (excluding Christmas and Bank Holidays) for school-age children.
Our venue at St Mary’s Junior School is also open for some additional holiday
periods. There is a discounted rate for students.
The Childcare Information Service aims to support families of the University
community. The service offers information on family related issues including
childcare, schooling, health care, financial support and local community resources.
There is also information for student parents on college provision for families and
possible financial support available.
More information can be found here: www.childcare.admin.cam.ac.uk.
Each College has a designated Childcare Contact – a list of these can be found at:
www.childcare.admin.cam.ac.uk/college-support-student-parents/designated-
college-childcare-contacts
Eligible EU and overseas students can apply to the Central Childcare Bursary
Scheme, which awards grants to help with OFSTED-registered childcare costs
(income, expenditure and childcare costs are assessed).
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Newcomers and Visiting Scholars (NVS)
Newcomers and Visiting Scholars is a group attached to the University to help
partners and families settle into Cambridge. Information about the group’s
programme of events and activities outlined on their website at
www.nvs.admin.cam.ac.uk
Development and Alumni Relations
Support from alumni
Throughout your studies, you can access advice, information and support
from the University’s global network of alumni. Use GradLink, LinkedIn and
the Alumni Groups search facility to approach alumni and Alumni Groups for
mentoring, subject specific advice, help to find internships and more.
Pre-arrival events for freshers
Some overseas Alumni Groups will host virtual Freshers’ Events in September,
enabling new students to hear from alumni as well as current students in their
country of residence about their experiences of Cambridge. These optional events
are a great opportunity to meet other new students before the start of term.
Social and networking opportunities
For social and networking opportunities with alumni, visit the alumni events web
page or contact Alumni Groups for their events schedules. You can also invite
alumni to attend or speak at your events.
Travel and hospitality
Alumni Groups offer a wide range of hospitality and assistance to travelling
students, such as finding places to stay, giving a personal tour and meeting for
coffee. If you plan to travel as part of your course, with a student club or society, or
just for fun, find out if there is a Group in that area and contact them directly.
Contact us
To find out more about the support available to students from the alumni
network, please contact the Development and Alumni Relations office by emailing
networks@alumni.cam.ac.uk
25
The information in this section is for students who are being sponsored by the
University for a student visa.
Travelling to the UK
After making a successful visa application overseas, you will be issued a time limited
entry vignette in your passport to enable you to travel to the UK. You will need to
travel to the UK within the validity of the vignette or apply for a new vignette to
extend the date at an extra cost. Information about travelling to and entering the
UK is provided at http://www.gov.uk/uk-border-control
Arriving at the airport
UK Border Force provides the following guidance for students about arriving in the
UK and passing through immigration control:
www.gov.uk/government/publications/student-arrivals-10-top-tips
Most non-EEA nationals are required to complete a landing card on arrival and join
the queue to speak to a Border Force officer at the passport desk. Students who
are nationals of the following countries and hold a biometric passport, however,
are able to use the eGates if they are open: Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand,
Singapore South Korea and USA. You will not need to complete a landing card or
speak to Border Force. You must be entering the UK during the validity of your Tier 4
entry vignette and on the passport used in your visa application. If you are eligible
to use the eGates you should retain evidence of your flight (e.g. boarding pass) to
confirm you have entered the UK during the validity of your vignette.
Collecting your BRP in the UK
The Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) is evidence of your immigration permission
in the UK. You are required to collect your BRP after arriving in the UK. The decision
letter notifying you of your successful visa application will confirm where you
should collect your BRP. This will either be at a designated Post Office or at the
University, depending on which you selected on the visa application form. Further
information on collecting your BRP is outlined at
www.internationalstudents.cam.ac.uk/collecting-your-brp
Immigration Requirements
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Compliance responsibilities
It is important you fully understand and comply with the responsibilities of your
student visa and co-operate with the University in fulfilling its Tier 4 duties. You
should ensure you have read the University’s ‘Your responsibilities under Tier 4’ guide
at www.internationalstudents.cam.ac.uk/tier-4-responsibilities
Police Registration
Nationals from the following countries are required to register with the police and
update their details as required:
Afghanistan, Algeria, Argentina, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Belarus, Bolivia,
Brazil, China, Colombia, Cuba, Egypt, Georgia, Hong Kong, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Jordan,
Kazakhstan, Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan, Lebanon, Libya, Moldova, Morocco, North Korea,
Oman, Palestine, Peru, Qatar, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Sudan, Syria, Tajikistan, Tunisia,
Turkey, Turkmenistan, United Arab Emirates, Ukraine, Uzbekistan, Yemen, Stateless
or travelling on a non-national document (i.e. Travel Document).
You must book an appointment in advance and information on the how to do this is
outlined at www.internationalstudents.cam.ac.uk/police-registration
To register with the police, you will need your passport, two passport photographs,
your BRP, the decision letter notifying you of your successful visa application. There
is a charge of £34 which can be paid in cash. You will also need to complete a form.
If you have previously studied in the UK but are new to Cambridge you will need to
update the police with your new details at Parkside Police Station. You do not need
to make an appointment. You need to take your passport, Certificate of Registration
and BRP (if received).
Once you have registered you will need to inform the police of the following
changes in your circumstances within 7 days: change of address, change place of
study, if you renew your passport, extend your Tier 4 visa, get married or if any other
details on your Police Registration Certificate change.
Telephone Scams
Whilst not common, you should be aware of telephone scams in the UK that target
individuals with a visa pretending to be from a legitimate organisation such as
the UK Home Office or HM Revenue and Customs. During the telephone call the
fraudster demands a payment, usually calling it a fine for a non-existent problem
with, for example, an immigration issue. The caller may appear genuine and
convincing because they have some limited information about you. If you receive
such a call, do not give any personal information and do not make any payments.
Report the incident to the University’s International Student Office.
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Travelling in Europe
Depending on your nationality, you may need to apply for a visa prior to travelling
to mainland Europe. For guidance on the visa process and requirements, visit
the website of the Visa Application Centre in the UK of the relevant country (e.g.
French Visa Application Centre in the UK). The Visa Application Centre website
usually provides an email address if you have any queries. Be cautious of obtaining
information online about the visa application requirements from an unofficial
source.
If you do require a visa and wish to travel to more than one European country,
you should consider applying for a Schengen visa which allows you to visit the
following countries on one visa: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark,
Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania,
Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malta, The Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal,
Slovakia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland.
If you plan to visit one country, you should apply to the Embassy or Consulate in
the UK for that particular country. If you are planning to visit several countries, you
should apply to the Embassy or Consulate for the country in which you plan to
spend the most time. If you will be spending equal time in multiple countries, you
should apply to the Embassy or Consulate for the country that will be your port of
entry.
The visa application requirements vary depending on the embassy where you
apply for the Schengen visa. Most applications will require you to submit your
passport, recent photograph(s), your UK visa, evidence of funds, a letter from
your College confirming your student status, evidence of travel insurance, travel
plans and application fee. Please note that some countries will require you to have
between three to six months remaining on your UK student visa. The earliest you
can apply for a Schengen visa is 3 months before you travel, but you should make
your application in good time.
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Apply for an EHIC
A European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) gives you the right to access state-provided
healthcare during a temporary stay in another country in the European Economic
Area or Switzerland. As a Tier 4 student you are eligible to apply for an EHIC. To apply
for an EHIC as a non-EEA national, you need to complete an application form: www.
nhs.uk/NHSEngland/Healthcareabroad/EHIC/Documents/EHIC-application-form.pdf
Send the completed application to NHS Business Services Authority, European Health
Insurance Card EHIC applications, Bridge House, 152 Pilgrim Street, Newcastle upon
Tyne, NE1 6SN.
Please note that as a non-EEA national, it is not possible to apply for an EHIC online.
Information about what is and isn’t covered by an EHIC is available at
www.nhs.uk/nhsengland/healthcareabroad/ehic/pages/about-the-ehic.aspx
EU Settlement Scheme
The information in this section is for students who have EU, EEA or Swiss citizenship
and are moving to the UK to start their studies prior to 31 December 2020.
The UK left the European Union at the end of January 2020 and entered a transition
period until 31 December 2020. The UK Government has confirmed its commitment
to protect the rights of EEA and Swiss citizens, and their family members, residing
in the UK prior to this date. During this transition period, free movement continues.
The EU Settlement Scheme will enable EEA and Swiss nationals to continue living
in the UK longer-term with the same access to work, study, benefits and public
services including the NHS.
Further information and guidance on how to apply for the EU Settlement Scheme
is outlined at www.internationalstudents.cam.ac.uk/eu-settlement-scheme. New
students should apply after arriving in the UK. The deadline to make an application
under the scheme is 30 June 2021.
29
Health
EEA nationals: Obtain a European Health Insurance Card
If you receive on-going medical treatment and / or medication, obtain a letter
from the doctor in your home country (in English) with the details as it may be
useful for your new doctor. Check whether you can take your medication on
your flight and through customs.
Finances
Consider how much money to bring to the UK (and whether your home country
restricts the amount of cash that can be taken out of the country) and / or
whether to use Travelers Cheques. You should request money in £5, £10 and £20
notes as £50 may not be accepted for smaller payments.
Ensure you have sufficient money in cash / credit card to cover your expenses
until you have opened a bank account.
Establish whether your current bankcard, if applicable, can be used in the UK
and whether your bank can provide any advice about transferring money to the
UK.
Transportation
Plan your onward journey to Cambridge.
Consider baggage restrictions on your flight.
Check any restrictions on goods that can be brought into the UK:
www.gov.uk/duty-free-goods/banned-and-restricted-goods
Consider travel insurance.
Check current requirements for entering the UK:
https://www.gov.uk/uk-border-control
Pre-arrival checklist
30
Preparing to study
Review course handbooks
Review College information packs
Look at the online orientation and induction information:
www.internationalstudents.cam.ac.uk/arriving/pre-arrival-information
Living in the UK
Consider whether you need an adaptor for any electrical equipment you intend
on bringing to the UK.
Consider the UK Climate: www.metoffice.gov.uk/climate
Bring passport photos – you’ll need them for various things in the first weeks.
Immigration
Check the details of your entry vignette and decision letter.
Ensure you enter the UK within the validity of your entry vignette.
Make photocopies of your passport and visa.
Carry a print out of your CAS email in your hand-luggage as well as any other
documents you used for your visa application.
Collect your BRP promptly on arrival in the UK.
Register with the police if required.
31
Cambridge terminology
It’s likely you will hear words at Cambridge you are unfamiliar with. You will soon
become accustomed to this terminology and start using it yourself. Here we have
explained some of the more frequently used words.
Bedder – bedmaker. Role varies by College but this is the person who may empty
your wastepaper bin every few days. At some Colleges, your bedder will vacuum,
change your sheets and clean your bathroom every week.
Black tie – a dress code of formal wear such as a dinner jacket (tuxedo) with
trousers, white shirt and black bow-tie or an evening formal dress / cocktail dress.
Bop – a disco at College, normally organised by your student association (see JCR
/ MCR).
Bumps – rowing races between College boat clubs that take place in June along
the River Cam.
Buttery – a cafeteria or canteen in College or on University premises
Colleges – There are thirty-one Colleges and these are an integral part of student
life at Cambridge. Many students live in their Colleges and undergraduates will
receive much of their teaching outside of lectures at College. Your College is also
responsible for your pastoral care.
DoS – As an undergraduate, your Director of Studies co-ordinates your individual/
group teaching at Cambridge, supporting and monitoring your academic progress
throughout your course. Your DoS is your first port of call for general advice about
your studies.
Gyp room – small kitchen in College which typically contains basic kitchen
facilities, e.g. a kettle
Gown – academical dress which is worn on formal occasions, and with a hood at
graduation.
JCR – Junior Combination Room. Adopted in many Colleges as the term for the
group of undergraduate student representatives – like a student union for College
matters.
32
Leave to work away – the approval required for research students who intend
to spend a period of time carrying out their studies away from Cambridge.
May Ball – held in Colleges, these are all night parties, normally starting at 9pm
and continuing to 5 or 6am. Tickets are bought in advance with food, drink and
entertainment included. Formal evening dress is worn.
May Week – Confusingly in June, this is the week at the end of the
undergraduate academic year, starting as Tripos exams finish. To celebrate, many
events are organised across the University, including rowing races, garden parties
and May Balls.
Matriculation - matriculation marks the formal admission of a student to
membership of the University. This involves signing a formal declaration agreeing to
abide by the Statutes and Ordinances of the University and College.
MCR – Middle Combination Room. Adopted in many Colleges as the term for
the group of graduate student representatives – like a student union for College
matters.
NatSci – short for Natural Sciences. Most commonly used to refer to those
studying Natural Sciences at undergraduate level, “I’m a NatSci”.
Paper – an individual undergraduate module or unit.
Pigeon hole – a mailbox. Also known as ‘pidge’.
Porters – precise role varies by College but they tend to be able to answer most
questions, or point you in the direction of someone who can. They will often be
your first port of call for College-related help. Normally found in the Plodge (see
below).
Plodge – the Porters’ Lodge
Senior Tutor – the College officer who has overall responsibility for academic,
welfare and disciplinary matters. Oversees the work of College Tutors.
Society – a club or organisation for a particular purpose or activity.
Squash – a welcome event introducing students to a club, society or organisation.
Registered University of Cambridge Clubs and Societies are listed at
www.societies.cam.ac.uk/
33
Swap – when groups of students from one College, or society, attend a meal
with a group from another College or society. Often take place at Formal Hall as an
opportunity to sample the experience at another College.
Terms - there are three Cambridge terms: Michaelmas Term (October-December),
Lent Term (January-March/April), Easter Term (April-June for undergraduates, April-
September for graduates).
Tutor – every student has a tutor at their College. Tutors look after student welfare
and are available for confidential advice.
Tripos – the course and examinations taken by undergraduate students e.g. the
Historical Tripos.
Undergraduate Supervision – for undergraduates this is more personal
tuition, organised by your College (DoS). These are small group or individual
teaching sessions for which you’ll normally need to do some preparatory work
which is submitted in advance. No formal assessment takes place in supervisions,
although regular reports are given to you by your supervisors.
Viva – an oral examination, most common for graduate research students but
sometimes taken by undergraduates after written exams.
What is Formal Hall?
Answered by a current international student:
Formal Hall is one of the most enjoyable and unique aspects of being a student
at Cambridge. It is basically a formal dinner with members of your college
community. It is usually a three course meal, and some colleges provide cheese
and wine. Each college runs their formal halls slightly differently, so you should
check with someone from your College in advance about the dress code (some
colleges require you to wear a suit/dress and a gown), arrival time, how to book a
ticket and whether you need to bring drinks.
The dinner usually starts when the Fellows of the College enter and sit at the high
table. Usually you will stand as the Fellows enter and while someone says a Latin
grace. Many colleges have rules of etiquette that prohibit leaving your seat while
the Fellows are seated and using your mobile phone. Ordinarily, at the end of the
meal a gong will sound, another grace is said and the Fellows leave the hall. You
can usually register to bring some guests with you if you have visitors or would
like to take friends from other colleges. As each College’s formal hall is different,
some students try to attend formal halls at many different colleges while they are
in Cambridge.
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Other Sources of Information
UKCISA
The UK Council for International Student Affairs, known as UKCISA, provides advice
and information to international students studying in the UK: www.ukcisa.org.uk
British Council
The British Council is an organisation specialising in international education and
cultural opportunities. They have some useful information on their website about
living and studying in the UK as an international student:
https://study-uk.britishcouncil.org/living
Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information in this guide
at the time of going to print. However, this information is subject to change and
the University accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. Students are
advised to refer to the various web-links provided throughout the guide for the
most up-to-date information.
35
Photograph by James Appleton
Printed by:
The Reprographics Centre
The Old Schools, Trinity Lane, Cambridge CB2 1TN
Email: reprographics.enquiries@admin.cam.ac.uk
Web: www.em.admin.cam.ac.uk/reprographics