Our aim is to make a student's time in the College both successful and enjoyable. To this end we have provided a range of services to provide advice, support and encouragement.

We realise that circumstances could arise when personal issues, financial problems or other issues can affect a student's learning experience within the College. During these occasions we will ensure that you gain speedy access to a range of internal or external specialist services.

The UK climate is similar to most Northern European countries. Summer time is a mixture of mild and warm weather, although in the winter and spring months it is generally cold so you will need to bring jumpers, a warm coat, hat and gloves. You will need an umbrella or waterproof coat in the spring.

Students will not be allowed to defer or change their course after they arrive here, unless they have a confirmation from the school prior to their arrival. All changes additional requirements should be clarified before an application is made.

IELTS is the International English Language Testing System. As part of our Admissions procedure we want to ensure you are offered a place on the right course for you. Therefore, if you are from a country where English is not the first language, you will need to demonstrate that your English reading, writing, speaking and listening skills are at an appropriate level for the course for which you wish to apply.

You must provide an IELTS certificate (minimum score of 6.0 bands) with your application. In very exceptional circumstances, other types of evidence may be considered. Please email us at info@bgschool.org.uk for further details.

If you require, the College can arrange a variety of accommodation (self-catering host family stay, fully catered host family stay, shared student accommodation, etc) and these can be arranged depending on the student's preference. Please download the accommodation request form from here and email us the completed copy, providing as much information as you can.

For further information please email us at info@bgschool.org.uk or call us on 0044- 8454210099.

We can arrange an Airport pickup for you on your arrival in the UK. Please download the airport pickup form from here and email us the completed copy – particularly your flight number and arrival time and we will arrange for you to be picked up and dropped off at your accommodation. For further information please email us at info@bgschool.org.uk or call us on 0044- 8454210099.

Free treatment, which is provided by the National Health Service, is available for all International Students studying in the UK. You must register with a GP (General Practitioner) when you arrive. There would be a small charge for any medical prescriptions recommended by the doctor. You are also entitled to Dental treatment, although there is a charge for this.

Upon your arrival in the UK, we will help you to open your own student bank account. Most banks will require proof of your student status and a letter from the College, which we will provide you.

The College is WIFI-enabled, where students can bring their laptop and use the service.

We also help you with advice on:

• National Insurance
• Council Tax
• Part-time Jobs

International students may take part time employment whist they are studying. This means that you can work for up to 20 hours a week in term time. There is no restriction on working hours in holiday periods (except limits laid down in UK employment law). However, we strongly advise you to ensure that any working hours do not affect your studies.

You will need to tell your family where you are living and make sure that you pass on your address and any telephone number. In an emergency your family may contact the Administration Office – Birmingham Graduate School and we will pass on the message, but we cannot accept general calls or fax messages for you. Our details are in this booklet so please make sure that you give them to someone before you leave home. However, we can only do so if we have your correct contact details. Please make sure that you tell us promptly if you change your address or telephone number.

Further help for international students is available on the following websites:
www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk
www.ukvisas.gov.uk
www.ukcosa.org.uk
www.educationuk.org
www.dius.gov.uk