International College

We're looking forward to welcoming you

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

Here to support you

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

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

Studying in College

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

What do I need to study online?

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

Computer

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

PC

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

Mac

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

Internet Connection

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

Minimum: 600kbps download and 600kbps upload speed

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

Zoom Restricted Countries

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

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

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

Keeping you safe on campus

Essential pre-arrival tasks

Before you arrive at the University of Sheffield International College, you need to complete all the tasks in our pre-arrival checklist. Contact us with any questions.

If you applied directly through us, your Student Enrolment Advisor can answer any questions you have about arriving in Sheffield. They can offer advice on living in the UK and support you with organising airport transfers on arrival to the UK. We will also provide you with pre-arrival reading and preparation materials so you are fully prepared for your study abroad adventure.

Pre-arrival checklist

Visit our fees page to find out how to confirm your offer to study at the International College. You will then be issued with your Confirmation of Acceptance of Studies (CAS).

You will need a visa to study at the International College. Find out more about visas and how to apply. 

Make sure you have organised where you’re going to live before you arrive. Our accommodation team can help you – find out more about accommodation options.

When you have your visa you can book your flights. Make sure you check the term dates and arrive in time for the start of your course. The closest international airport to Sheffield is Manchester.

Before you leave home, it is important that you register for the University Health Service so you can receive medical treatment if you become ill. We will send you further details before you arrive. 

You should aim to arrive at your accommodation up to two days before the start of term.

It is essential that all international students have health, medical and personal insurance. Find out more about StudyCare Insurance Plus.

What to pack

You should bring the following documents with you:

  • passport and visa
  • UKVI Decision Letter
  • Confirmation of Acceptance for Study letter (CAS)
  • International College offer letter
  • accommodation documents
  • academic qualification certificates 
  • sponsor letter (if you are being sponsored)
  • four passport-sized photographs
  • insurance documents (unless you are covered by StudyCare Insurance Plus)
  • medical certificates and vaccination records
  • copy of your arrivals/transfer confirmation letter
  • guardianship letter (if you are under 18).

You should bring:

  • prescriptions for any medication along with translations into English
  • essential toiletries for the first few days – everything else can be purchased when you arrive.

Bring essential clothing for all weather conditions, including a warm coat. There is no dress code at the International Study Centre, so bring comfortable clothes like jeans, t-shirts and jumpers. Sheffield has plenty of shops where you can buy any other clothing you need.

It can be useful to bring the following personal items:   

  • a small amount of British money in case you need cash 
  • travel adaptor 
  • laptop (if possible) or you could buy one in Sheffield when you arrive
  • something to remind you of home.

Britain is home to residents from around the world, giving it a vibrant, cosmopolitan feel. You’ll soon be able to adapt to a whole variety of situations, from understanding British etiquette and slang to cooking your own food and going out with your new friends. 

It won’t take you long to make friends, but whilst you settle in, we will organise events designed to help you meet your classmates and build new friendships. There are also many societies you can join to meet people with similar interests to you. 

The UK is a multicultural country and you will find local shops will sell most things you will need. If you can’t find what you’re looking for locally, some of the larger supermarkets stock a wider range of international products. There are also restaurants serving cuisine from around the world so if you’re looking for a something to remind you of home you’ll be able to find just what you want.

What will your first week be like? 

Whether you start online or on campus, you’ll benefit from an Induction Week to help you settle in and make friends. 

Look out for fraud

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

We're here to help

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

Frequently asked questions on joining us on campus

Question Answer

What facilities are available on campus?

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

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

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

If you need help with anything when you arrive, you can call the International College’s Emergency Contact number for support: +44 (0) 7467 955 175

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

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

View the government’s advice on what to do if you are displaying symptoms of the coronavirus.

While the campus is closed, we are still available to support you, and all essential services will still be provided.

What if I need to quarantine on arrival?

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

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

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

For bedding and kitchen equipment:

  • Gailarde
  • Uni Kit Out

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

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

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

  • Just Eat
  • Deliveroo

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

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

What if I start or enrol late on my course?

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

What happens during Induction Week?

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

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

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