Next steps for offer holders

Welcome programme

At the start of the Autumn and Spring terms we run a fun and informative Welcome Programme to introduce students to key contacts, college life and London. This Welcome Programme is mandatory for all Study Abroad students, so please ensure you arrive at least the day before the Welcome Programme starts (this is listed in your offer letter as your first day) .

In the Autumn term, this takes place within the context of the University-wide Welcome week, a week filled with events and activities to get new comers integrated with all that UAL has to offer.

For Summer Study Abroad students, we deliver an online Welcome session the week before the start of your course.

Online registration

All students must complete online registration before beginning their course at UAL. Eligible students will receive an online registration request approximately four weeks before the course start date.

Online Registration guidance (PDF 303KB)

Pre-arrival

Around one week before your arrival, you will receive detailed information about your first week at UAL. This will include the Welcome programme timetable, campus locations, enrolment appointment, and other key guidance to help you prepare for your course.

All Welcome programme sessions are mandatory, and students are expected to arrive in time to participate fully.

Enrolment

Enrolment will take place during your first week. You are required to attend your allocated in-person enrolment appointment, which will be confirmed approximately one week before your course begins. You will need to bring your physical passport and any relevant travel documents, e.g. your boarding pass.

What to bring for your studies at UAL

Travel documents - To enter the UK you will need your valid Passport and Official communications from UAL (acceptance letter, short-term student visa letter) – keep this with you at all times.

Luggage - We advise you to pack lightly when first coming to the UK. After accounting for overweight luggage costs or postage costs to ship items, it is generally cheaper to buy items here.

Clothing - As London temperatures can vary, layered clothing is the best way to remain adaptable. Bring a selection of winter and summer clothes, as well as informal and formal attire. But pack lightly as there are numerous affordable and exciting shops in the fashion capital!

Personal Belongings - Most items, such as bedding, towels or cooking utensils, can be bought cheaply when you arrive in London.

Computers - While all of the University‘s sites have computing facilities, many students bring a laptop with them for use in their accommodation or off site.

Money - You will need some cash with you when you first arrive as it can take up to 5 weeks to set up a bank account. Please note that students on a Short-Term Student Visa are not eligible to open UK bank accounts. For more adivce on money and banking read our living in London page.

Getting to London

Depending on where you are coming from you may be flying to one of the following airports in London:

• Heathrow Airport
• Gatwick Airport
• Stansted Airport
• London Luton Airport
• London City Airport

Or if you are coming by train, you may be arriving to the Eurostar terminal at St Pancras International station.

Short Course discount

As a Study Abroad student, you will be able to claim a 10% discount on UAL Short Courses during your time at the University.

These specialist courses take place in the evenings, at weekends and during vacation periods, and are a great opportunity to learn a new skill or develop a particular interest.

The Study Abroad team will tell you how to claim the discount when you arrive in London.

Postgraduate course discount

As a Study Abroad student you are eligible for a 20% discount on your tuition fees when starting a masters or postgraduate course at UAL.

Academic terminology

University language in the UK could be different to the terminology you are used to in your home country or institution. Below we have compiled a series of words that can cause confusion at times and therefore are worth checking out.

If you are interested in learning  more about the differences between the UK university system and the rest of the world please go to our Academic Differences page.