Frequently Asked Questions

General
Where is the University of Surrey?
How old is the University of Surrey?
What is the ranking of the University of Surrey?
What is the town of Guildford like?
What is the weather like in Surrey?
What sports facilities does the University have?

Gathering more information and applying
Where can I order a copy of the latest prospectus?
What level of English do I need to study at the university?
Can I learn English at the university?
Can I take the IELTS English test at the university?
If I study at the University, where will I live?
Can I visit the University?
Can I see a virtual tour of the University?
Will representatives from the University be visiting my country? If so, when?
How can I contact students from my country who are studying at Surrey?
How do I apply for a course at the University of Surrey?
Do I need to apply to the university through an agent?
How much will it cost me to study at Surrey?

Preparing to come to Surrey
How do I apply for a student visa?
How do I book my accommodation?
I have a conditional offer but have not met the conditions, what should I do?
I have applied for a student visa but was declined, what should I do?
How do I get to the University when I arrive in the UK?
When I arrive on the University of Surrey campus where should I go?
Where should I go on the first day of my course?
Can I continue to study English when I am studying my degree?
What facilities does Surrey offer for practicing my religion?

When you are at Surrey
Where is the International Student Office at the University?
Do I need to register with the Police?
I need some information about visas, where do I go?
How do I open a bank account?
I want to travel outside the UK, where do I get a letter?
Can I work part-time when I am studying at the university?
Can I drive in the UK?

After you Graduate
Does my course qualify me to get a 1 year working visa after I graduate?
Can the university give me advise on trying to find a job?
Will the University stay in contact with me after I graduate?
How do I contact Alumni students who have graduated from Surrey and returned to my country?

General

Where is the University of Surrey? (back to top)
The University of Surrey is situated in the market town of Guildford in the county of Surrey which is in the south east of the UK. Guildford is 40 minutes by train to the south west of London. The University is also close to both Heathrow and Gatwick international airports. View the University location map.

How old is the University of Surrey? (back to top)
The University of Surrey dates back to 1894 when it was the Battersea Polytechnic and based in south west London. In 1966 it was moved to its current location in Guildford and became the University of Surrey.

What is the ranking of the University ofSurrey? (back to top)
The Guardian League Table 2006
The University of Surrey is ranked 12th out of 122 institutions. 21 subjects are in the Top 20 including 1st place positions for Tourism and Civil Engineering.

The Times – Good University Guide 2006
The University of Surrey is ranked 38th out of 109 institutions. 17 subjects in the Top 20 including a 1st place position for Food Science.

What is the town of Guildford like? (back to top)
The busy town centre of Guildford is just 10 minutes walk or a short bus ride from the university campus. Guildford has a population of around 250,000 and is one of South-East England's top shopping centres. It has an excellent nightlife, with 3 nightclubs, a nine-screen cinema and many pubs, bars and restaurants to suit every taste and budget. Guildford is on the main line train route from Portsmouth to London and close to Heathrow and Gatwick airports.

Visit the Guildford Borough website for more information about the town.
Visit our slideshow pages to see photographs of Guildford.

What is the weather like in Surrey? (back to top)
The UK has 4 distinct seasons – spring, summer, autumn and winter. The South East of the country's climate is among the warmest in the whole of the UK, with mild winters and moderate summers. Temperatures in the mid summer months of July and August average around 18°C (64°F) but can occasionally soar to 30°C (85°F) or more. In spring and autumn temperatures average 11-15°C (50-58°F) and in winter they hover just below 6°C (42°F). However the UK’s weather can be unpredictable - sometimes with sunny winter days and cloud and rain in summer! Visit the BBC Weather website to check out today’s weather in Guildford.

What sports facilities does the University have? (back to top)
The University’s sport and recreation department, UniSport, is pleased to offer full facilities for a wide variety of sports including climbing, aerobics, badminton, cricket, football, tennis, basketball and a selection of dance and martial arts. There is also a gym on campus with a broad range of fitness and weight machines.

Visit the UNISport website to find out more about the University’s sporting facilities.

The Guildford Spectrum Leisure Complex offers 4 swimming pools, a gym, ten pin bowling and an ice rink.

Gathering more information and applying

Where can I order a copy of the latest prospectus? (back to top)

Undergraduates
Order your personalised copy of the latest undergraduate prospectus.

Postgraduates
Order your copy of the latest postgraduate prospectus.

International Foundation Year
Order your copy of the International Foundation Year prospectus.

What level of English do I need to study at the university? (back to top)
If your first language is not English, and you have not been taught in English or studied to Alevel standard in the UK, you will need to demonstrate an acceptable minimum level* of competence through one of the following:

The University will also accept a good pass in an English language paper of certain overseas matriculation qualifications (e.g. Examen Artrium)

*Please note some courses such as Translation, Law and the MBA request a higher level of English. See course details or contact course administrator for more details.

To join the International Foundation Year you need an English Language level equivalent to IELTS 5.0 or TOEFL 500 (173 computer based test).

Full Details of the English courses offered can be found on the Centre for Language Studies pages.

Can I learn English at the university?(back to top)
You can study Academic or Business English courses to prepare for your degree at the university's Centre for Language Studies. Full-time, 21 classroom hours per week courses start in October, January, April, July, August and September, and are taught by highly qualified, experienced staff using up-to-date materials. The Centre for Language Studies offers Pre-sessional (summer) programmes, year round programmes, and Business English Programmes.

Can I take the IELTS English test at the university? (back to top)
The Centre for Language Studies is an IELTS test centre, so you can take the exam here if you need to. For more information and test dates visit our IELTS pages. Please remember to book well in advance as places fill up quickly. You can also download an IELTS Application Form .

If I study at the University, where will I live? (back to top)
The University has a considerable amount of accommodation on or very near the campus. The majority of the rooms are single study bedrooms arranged around a shared kitchen and either shared or ensuite bathroom facilities. All student rooms have a fast, free, unlimited broadband internet service and direct dial telephones.

All unaccompanied international students are normally guaranteed University accommodation for the normal duration of their course. All EU students are guaranteed accommodation for at least the first year of their course.

Our experienced Accommodation Office staff are able to provide advice and support for students looking for private housing in Guildford.

Visit our Accommodation website for more information and details of how to apply online.

Can I visit the University? (back to top)
Yes, we would be very pleased for you to come to see the University. There are various opportunities for you to visit, as follows:

Open Days
The University arranges open days for prospective students throughout the year. Our Open Days will give you an opportunity to speak to lecturers, visit Departments, view accommodation and obtain full information and advice on the application process, fees and student life. Visit our Open Day  pages for dates and full details.

Other Visits
As we understand it may be difficult for you to schedule your trip to Surrey to coincide with an Open Day, especially if you are coming from overseas, it may be possible to organise a visit to campus at another time. Please contact the International Student Office with the date and time of your proposed visit and we will try to assist you.

Virtual Tour
If you are not able to visit Surrey, why not go on a virtual tour of the University campus and Guildford town.

Can I see a virtual tour of the University? (back to top)
Yes, click here to go on a virtual tour of the University campus and Guildford town.

Will representatives from the University be visiting my country? If so, when? (back to top)
Staff of the International Student Office make regular visits to countries all around the globe to take part in exhibitions, visit institutions and interview students. To find out when the next visit is scheduled for your country, visit our country pages where you will find full details or email the International Student Office.

How can I contact students from my country who are studying at Surrey? (back to top)
There are many international societies which are run through the Students’ Union. To check if your country is presented in this way please visit the USSU website and contact the President of the society directly. If you cannot find a society that represents your country or if you do not receive a reply (perhaps the students are currently off campus on summer vacation), please contact the International Student Office who will be happy to try to put you in touch with current students.

How do I apply for a course at the University of Surrey? (back to top)
We are very pleased that you would like to apply to Surrey.

Undergraduates
Apply for Undergraduate courses at the University of Surrey.

Postgraduates
Apply for Postgraduate courses at the University of Surrey.

International Foundation Year
Apply for the International Foundation Year at the University of Surrey if you do not meet the entrance requirements for an undergraduate degree.

Do I need to apply to the university through an agent? (back to top)
We are happy to receive both direct applications and those via an agent / representative. It is not necessary to use an agent to apply to the University but if you feel you need extra help with researching universities and courses, completing your application, etc, then you can find details of the Surrey representatives in your country by visiting our country pages.

How much will it cost me to study at Surrey? (back to top)
When considering study abroad, cost is obviously an important factor. The quality of British qualifications and their international recognition mean that study in the UK is excellent value for money.

At Surrey students have the benefit of:

• applied degrees at both undergraduate and postgraduate level, many of which receive professional recognition
• one-year taught Masters degrees
• three years postgraduate study for the award of PhD.

In addition, international students have the benefit of:

• free access to the National Health service if registered on courses of 6 months or more duration
• free school education for registered dependent children.

Undergraduate Study at Surrey for 2006/07
Composition Fees
(including Registration, Tuition, Examination, University and Students' Union Fees)
These vary according to the facilities required. In general the costs are:

• £10,700 for laboratory based courses
• £8,300 for non-laboratory based courses

Those courses which require very special equipment may be subject to a higher fee or a bench fee. Information regarding the exact fees of particular courses can be found at the Registry website.

Accommodation
All unaccompanied full-time students who are classified as overseas for fee purposes are offered University accommodation throughout the normal duration of a course, provided applications are made and fees paid by set dates. Fees cover the room, heating and lighting. Self-catering facilities are available as well as restaurants and snack bars on the University site. The fees vary according to the type of accommodation taken, but average £75 per week, including lighting and heating.

A room is normally allocated for two 15 week semesters, but international students may wish to remain during vacation periods. On average undergraduate students spend 38 weeks in University accommodation.

Living Costs
These vary considerably according to individual requirements and tastes, but a recommended minimum is £78 per week to cover the cost of food, books and stationery, clothing and personal effects.

A typical total cost of an unaccompanied international undergraduate student spending 38 weeks at the University of Surrey would be:

• Tuition fees etc £8,300 / £10,700
• University accommodation £2,850
• Living costs £2,964
• Total £14,114 / £16,514

We believe that this net cost compares very favourably with that of other higher education establishments in the UK and certainly those of other countries where courses are considerably longer. The cost of accommodation outside the University is over £80 per week.

Postgraduate Study at Surrey for 2006/07
Postgraduate study at Surrey is designed to provide high quality, intensive education. Although the cost of study per year may be more in the UK than in some countries, the programmes are usually of much shorter duration and so the real cost of postgraduate study in the UK is much lower.

Composition Fees
(including Registration, Tuition, Examination and University and Students' Union Membership Fees).
These vary according to the facilities required. In general the costs are:

• £10,700 for laboratory based courses
• £8,300 for non-laboratory based courses.

Those courses which require very special equipment may be subject to a higher fee or a bench fee. Information regarding the exact fees of particular courses can be found at the Registry website

Accommodation
All unaccompanied full-time students who are classified as overseas for fee purposes are offered University accommodation throughout the normal duration of a course. Fees cover the room, heating and lighting. Self-catering facilities are available as well as restaurants and snack bars on the University site. The fees vary according to the type of accommodation taken, but average £75 per week, including lighting and heating. Charges for non-University accommodation can be over £80 per week. A room is normally allocated for two 15 week semesters plus summer project time, but international students may wish to remain during vacation periods. Most postgraduate students spend a full 52 weeks in University accommodation.

Living Costs
These vary considerably according to individual requirements and tastes, but a recommended minimum is £78 per week to cover the cost of food, books and stationery, clothing and personal effects. A typical total cost of an unaccompanied international postgraduate student spending 52 weeks at the University of Surrey would be:

• Tuition fees etc £8,300 / £10,700
• University accommodation £3,900
• Living costs £4,056
• Total £16,256 / £18,656

We believe that this net cost compares very favourably with that of other higher education establishments in the UK and certainly those of other countries where courses are considerably longer. The cost of accommodation outside the University is over £80 per week.

Preparing to come to Surrey

How do I apply for a student visa? (back to top)
If you are coming to study in the UK for more than six months, and you are not an EEA national, you are required to obtain entry clearance as a student (student visa) from your nearest British Embassy, Consulate or High Commission. It is advisable to apply for entry clearance even if you are planning to study for less than six months and you should check the UK Visas website for information. This website will give you full information about the application process, downloadable application forms and will tell you where to make your application and how long this may take. Application times can vary according to where you live and the time of year, so please ensure that you apply as early as possible to avoid any delays which may affect your studies in the UK.

The start date of your visa can be deferred for up to three months if you apply early. Please see also the UKCISA Information Sheets for International students coming to the UK.

How do I book my accommodation? (back to top)
If you are an undergraduate student, you can make an online application for accommodation as soon as you have confirmed your place on a course through UCAS and have become UF or CF.  If you are a postgraduate student, you can make an online application as soon as you formally accept your offer and send back your Postgraduate Offer Acceptance Form to the University Registry.  You should visit the Accommodation website, and follow the booking instructions.

If you can not access the website please contact the Accommodation Office for further information:

Accommodation Office
University of Surrey
Guildford
Surrey
GU2 7XH
UK
Tel: +44 (0)1483 682 461
Fax: +44 (0)1483 579 266

I have a conditional offer but have not met the conditions, what should I do? (back to top)
If you do not meet the conditions of your offer letter, please contact the Department you are applying to as soon as possible with full details of your qualifications. It is possible that you may still be accepted into the University, however this can only be decided by the Department on a case by case basis.

The contact details should be in your offer letter pack but if not contact the International Student Office by email: international@surrey.ac.uk or phone +44 (0)1483 689 467.

I have applied for a student visa but have been declined, what should I do? (back to top)
If you are refused a student visa, the entry clearance officer will give you a written notice clearly explaining the decision, which will also tell you if you have the right of appeal. If you are refused or if there is a delay in the visa process, please contact the International Student Office immediately, sending a copy of the refusal notice if possible.  We will warn your Department and may be able to offer further advice.

How do I get to the University when I arrive in the UK? (back to top)
The International Student Office organises a Meet and Greet service at Heathrow and Gatwick airports for new students arriving on the busiest days during September. Check this website for more information about this service nearer the time.

If you are arriving at another time, please go to our how to get to the University pages for full details arriving by train, bus, coach or car.

When I arrive on the University of Surrey campus where should I go? (back to top)
You will receive an introduction pack including full joining instructions well before you travel to the UK. This will tell you the start date of your course and where you should go when you arrive on campus.

If you do not receive this information, please contact the International Student Office

Where should I go on the first day of my course? (back to top)
You will receive an introduction pack including full joining instructions well before you travel to the UK. This will tell you the start date of your course and where you need to report to on the first day of the semester.

If you do not receive this information, please contact the International Student Office

Can I receive help with my English and study skills while I am studying my degree?(back to top)
Yes, you can study for up to 5 hours a week on the English Language Support Programme, which is free of charge to full-time students. Click here for more details. These courses are for students who have met their departments' English requirements and are already in the university. Subjects include Dissertation Writing and Critical Thinking.

You may find that studying at the University of Surrey is different from other studying you have done before. You will be expected to be responsible for managing your time and meeting deadlines, as well as finding, synthesising and communicating information back to others. SPLASH provides workshops, drop-in sessions, appointments and online resources that you can access to help you develop your learning and study skills.

You can also make use of the Skills Unit which offers advice on all areas of studying, including time management and referencing.

What facilities does Surrey offer for practicing my religion?(back to top)
There are facilities for practicing the majority of the world’s major religions at Surrey. The University has a network of Chaplains drawn from a range of spiritual traditions and religious communities. For more details go to the Chaplaincy webpages.

When you are at Surrey

Where is the International Student Office at the University?(back to top)
The International Student Office is situated in the Philip Marchant Building, No 13 on the campus map. If you are not on campus you can always call us (+44 (0)1483 689467), fax (+44 (0)1483 689525) or email: international@surrey.ac.uk.

Do I need to register with the Police?(back to top)
Only certain nationalities are required to register with the Police on arrival in the UK and this requirement will be stamped in your passport. If you do need to register and you are starting a course in September or October, you should make an appointment through the International Student Office appointment system once you have registered with the University.

I need some information about visas, where do I go?(back to top)
For all information about visas and any immigration matter, please come to the International Student Office, situated in the Philip Marchant Building, No 13 on the campus map. You will not need to make an appointment but please note the office hours are 9.30am – 12.30am and 2.00pm – 4.00pm each week day. Outside these hours information can be obtained from the UKCiSA whose website address is: www.ukcisa.org.uk, or they can be contacted via the Students' Advice Line +44 (0)20 7107 9922. This telephone line is open Monday-Friday 1300 - 1600 (UK time).

How do I open a bank account? (back to top)
There is no restriction on the amount of money that you can bring into the UK, nor on its form (cash, traveller's cheques, banker's drafts or letters of credit). However, you should not carry large amounts of cash on you in the UK, to avoid the attention of pickpockets. Instead you should bring sufficient travellers' cheques to cover any initial expenditure. Although it is advisable to bring a small amount of cash (sterling) with you when you first arrive, you should not have any problems changing money in the UK. There are exchange facilities at airports and major railway stations, and banks and building societies will also change currency (usually at lower commission rates). You can pay for your tuition fees from your own country by bank transfer or once in the UK by travellers’ cheque, banker’s draft or cheque made out to the “University of Surrey” or credit card and you can pay for your accommodation by credit card or by direct debit once you have set up a bank account, so you will not need large amounts of cash.

If possible, you should open an account with a multi-national bank in your home country before you leave for the UK. This should then enable you to use that bank's ATMs in the UK, but please check with the bank first. It is also a good idea to obtain a credit card from home as a contingency.

It is advisable to open a bank account in Guildford as soon as you have registered at the University in order to help manage your finances. You will need your passport and a “bank” letter from the Registry confirming that you have enrolled and identifying your address in the UK. Please allow several days for a letter to be produced, particularly at the beginning of the semester and other busy times of the year.

The University of Surrey has a branch on The NatWest Bank on campus and all the major British banks and building societies have branches in Guildford. A basic bank account is easier to open than any other type of account but you should discuss the options open to you with the bank. You can change money on campus at the NatWest Bank and at the Post Office and there are three ATM machines on campus.

Full information about bank accounts for international students in the UK can be found in the British Bankers’ Association leaflet

I want to travel outside the UK, where do I get a letter? (back to top)
If you wish to visit other countries, perhaps for a holiday or to attend a conference, you may need to apply for a visa. For example, visitors to countries in the European Union require a Schengen visa and full details can be found on the embassy’s website of the country concerned. Students will require a letter to verify their student status and this is available from the International Student Office. Please note that most embassies require you to make an appointment and the waiting time for such appointments can be quite long at busy times such as Christmas and Easter. So ensure that you book well in advance of your visit and give the International Student Office time to prepare the letter before your appointment.

Can I work part-time when I am studying at the university? (back to top)
You may work part-time whilst studying in the UK providing you have a valid student visa with conditions that allow you to work. Take a look at your visa and make sure it reads “Work (and any charges) must be authorised” or “Able to work as authorised by The Secretary of State”. You are not allowed to work in the UK if your visa stamp/sticker reads “Work prohibited’” or “No work or recourse to public funds”.

The regulations governing part-time work are up to 20 hours per week during term time and any number of hours in the vacation periods. The University, however, recommends that students limit part-time work to between 10 and 12 hours per week in order not to affect their studies. You are not allowed to engage in business, self-employment or provide services as a professional sportsperson or entertainer, nor pursue a career by filling a permanent full-time vacancy.

If you have a husband or wife who is currently in the UK with you on a dependant’s visa, and your visa is for 12 months or more, they will be allowed to work any number of hours, providing they do not have a prohibition on their visa.

It is very important that you do not break these rules as this can lead to serious consequences including immediate removal from the UK. Please contact the International Student Office if you are in any doubt about any of the regulations. Full information can also be found in the UKCiSA leaflet “Working during your studies”

For information on part-time jobs available on and around campus, you can email jobshop@surrey.ac.uk or pop into the Careers Service next to the International Student Office, or call into Kelly Services’ office in the Students' Union..

Can I drive in the UK? (back to top)
It is important that you are aware of the legal requirements and correct procedures when considering driving in the UK.

If you are coming into the UK for more than 12 months, you may drive on your valid foreign licence or international driving permit for a period of 12 months from the date you first arrive to start your degree. After this time, you must obtain a provisional licence (you can do this after you have been resident in the UK for six months), pass the theory test and take the practical driving test. Whilst in possession of a provisional British license, you must abide by the rules that apply until you have passed both parts of the driving test. These include displaying red and white “L” plates on the front and back of the car, being accompanied at all times by a passenger who is over 21, who has passed their driving test and has had a valid licence for at least three years, and you are not allowed to drive on motorways. 

If you are considering buying a car during your studies, you must ensure that the vehicle is registered and that you have the registration documents. The car must be taxed and insured and if it is more than 3 years old, it must be checked for road-worthiness and have an MOT certificate.  This must be obtained every year and which is valid for 12 months. Road tax is available from the Post Office and the tax disc must be displayed at all times. You must be fully insured and the certificate of insurance, MOT certificate and car registration document are all required in order to obtain the tax disc. Motor insurance is available from many companies and the costs depends on various things, such as the age of the car and age of the driver, so do shop around to find the most suitable deal.

Full details of all the rules and regulations regarding driving in the UK can be found on the DVLA website and also http://www.direct.gov.uk/Motoring/fs/en

After you Graduate

Can I stay in the UK after I graduate? (back to top)

If you complete your studies at the University and your student visa is still valid, you can stay in the UK and work full time for up to four months. After that time, even if your student visa is still valid, you should leave the UK or extend your leave to remain in the UK in one of the following ways:

Education: you may want to continue your studies by applying for another course of a higher level or in a different area of interest – for example a Masters or PhD degree. 

Employment: if you wish to work or gain some work experience after completing your course you may qualify to apply under one of the following schemes:

The International Graduates Scheme (IGS) to be replaced by Post Study Work

International (non-EEA) students who successfully complete a Bachelors degree, Masters degree, PhD or PG certificate/diploma in any subject at a recognised UK higher or further education institution is currently entitled to apply to stay on to work in the UK for up to one year.

There are no restrictions on the type of work you can do during the 12 months.  You will need to apply for IGS within 12 months of completing your course and you can either make the application from within the UK if you still hold a current valid student visa, or from your home country through the British Embassy or High Commission.  Upon completion of your one year’s work experience it is possible to switch into employment or self-employment categories (see below) provided you meet the specific requirements.

UK immigration is currently undergoing major changes.  IGS will become Post Study Work under Tier 1 of the new regulations and will be extended to two years. This is due to be introduced later in the summer 2008 and these pages will be updated to show these changes as they are announced. Full details of the new changes will also be posted on the UK Border Agency website.

Tier 1 General (formerly known as Highly Skilled Migrant Programme)

This scheme is directed at highly skilled graduates who wish to look for work or self employment in the UK. You do not need to have a specific job offer in order to apply. It is based on a points system and, in order to gain enough points to qualify, students may need to include evidence of earnings from work experience gained prior to coming to the UK, so you will need to ensure that you have copies of all the relevant documentation before you leave your country. Leave to remain will be granted for an initial period of three years after which you can make an extension application, using the same points system, for a further two years.

Tier 2 General (formerly known as Work Permit)

If you are fortunate to be offered a job upon completion of your studies, the company will become your sponsor which will allow you to apply for leave to remain as a skilled migrant. Leave to remain will be granted for an initial period of three years after which you can make an extension application for a further two years.

With the last two schemes, you can apply for indefinite leave to remain (ILR) after five years, provided all appropriate conditions have been met and again full details of the new regulations will be found on the UK Border Agency website.

Can the university give me advise on trying to find a job? (back to top)
Graduates of the University of Surrey are the most employable of any university in the country and the University is consistently at the top of the employment league tables. The Careers Service offers help and advice to both undergraduate and postgraduate students during and after their studies in looking for employment. They have a well-stocked library and can help with CV writing and all aspects of the recruitment process as well as providing information on career choices, further study and simply taking some time out. They also work with employers to help them identify the graduates best suited to their needs.

Will the University stay in contact with me after I graduate? (back to top)
All former students of the University of Surrey are considered members of our international network of alumni. By registering with the Alumni Society and keeping us up-dated with any change to your contact details and circumstances you will be sent regular information about the University and any events and reunions that might be happening on campus and in your country. We can also help you stay in contact with former friends and colleagues.

How do I contact Alumni students who have graduated from Surrey and returned to my country? (back to top)
Through the Alumni Society international students can keep in contact with former friends in your country. The Alumni Society encourages past students to form regional groups and there are currently 12 in operation. These groups offer a good source of networking, advice, social events and friendship with fellow Surrey alumni or new students interested to find out more about the University. The British Council offices in your country also encourage UK alumni to keep in touch up return from the UK and you may well find other Surrey alumni at events and reunions that are organised through their groups.

If you can’t find an answer to your question please email the International Student Office. Alternatively, please call on +44 (0)1483 689 467