Welcome guide for international students

London

Arriving in London 17

From the airport to central London 22

From the airport to College accommodation 24

A-Z of London 26

Essential websites 33

International Students’ Welcome and Orientation The Student Advice & International Student Support team at King’s hosts an annual free Welcome and Orientation Programme for new international students at the beginning of the autumn term.

The programme includes several events to welcome you to London, and it will provide you with plenty of useful information to help you settle in and meet other new international students.

You will need to book a place online in advance in order to attend this event. See page 35 for more details.

KCLSU Welcome Weeks Events During the first two weeks of term King’s College London Students’ Union (KCLSU) organise two weeks of daytime and evening social events open to all new students. See page 37 for details.

ContentsEssentials for starting at King’s

Entry clearance 3

Accommodation 6

Fees and living costs 8

Health 14

At King’s

First few weeks 35

Calendar 38

Support services 40

Check lists

Before you leave home 43

Day of travel 44

First two weeks 45

Contacts & maps

Contact details 47

Useful maps 52

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This handbook aims to answer important questions frequently asked by international students on practical issues such as obtaining a visa, finance, housing, travel arrangements, healthcare, insurance, safety and more.

It is packed with useful tips to help you find your feet in this fabulous city and learn more about life as a King’s student by highlighting some of the services provided.

As this handbook is also intended as a reference guide for your first few weeks, please read it carefully and be sure to bring it with you to King’s.

Visit our international web pages for more information, news and useful resources: www.kcl.ac.uk/international

We look forward to welcoming you to King’s College London.

Congratulations on being offered a place to study at King’s College London.

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Entry clearance 3

Accommodation 6

Fees and living costs 8

Health 14

Essentials for starting at King’s

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The vast majority of students coming to study in the UK are required to apply for permission to enter the country before travelling. Whether or not you need to apply for entry clearance depends on where you are from and how long you plan to stay in the UK.

If you need more detailed information regarding your individual circumstances, or your application for entry clearance has been refused, you can contact Student Advice & International Student Support at King’s (see Contacts & maps).

We strongly recommend that before you apply for entry clearance (a ‘visa’) you check the more detailed advice by visiting the UK Border Agency website at www.ukvisas.gov.uk

FurTHEr INFormATIoN: www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk www.ukcisa.org.uk www.kcl.ac.uk/welfare

EEA and Swiss NationalsIf you are a national of an EEA country (the EU plus Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway) or Switzerland then you can enter the UK freely as a student with very little documentation. You are not required to apply for entry clearance, though you may still be asked to show evidence that you have been accepted onto a course of study and you will need your passport.

Non-EEA NationalsAnyone from outside the EEA who would like to come to the UK for more than six months and ALL visa nationals must apply for entry clearance before travelling. To confirm whether or not you require entry clearance, refer to the UK Border Agency website www.ukvisas.gov.uk

Students coming for courses of six months or less and those undertaking ‘distance learning’ can apply to enter the UK as a ‘Student Visitor’. If you are a visa national you must obtain prior entry clearance in this category; non-visa nationals can apply on entry to the UK if they wish (eg at the airport). You should be very clear with the immigration officer when you arrive that you intend to undertake a short course of study, and provide evidence of this and proof of sufficient funds, since studying is no longer permitted on standard Visitor visas. You should therefore check that your Leave to Enter stamp clearly states ‘Student Visitor’. You should be aware that Student Visitors are not permitted to work in the UK, or extend their stay for longer than six months. Therefore if you think you would like to work, or that you might wish to stay for longer than six months, you should apply for entry clearance as a student.

Entry clearancePlease note that this information was correct at the time of writing. However, due to the introduction of a new points based immigration system, the processes described below may have altered.

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How to apply for entry clearanceYou will need to apply to your nearest British Diplomatic Post (Embassy, Consulate-General or High Commission) that has a visa section. Some accept applications online whereas others insist on applications by post or in person, so you should check their procedure before submitting your application at www.fco.gov.uk

Under the new system (see Introduction of the Points Based System on page 5) students will need to obtain a certain number of ‘points’ in a number of categories in order to be granted entry clearance as a student. Therefore when applying for entry clearance you will need to show the Entry Clearance Officer that you meet all the requirements for a student visa. You will need to provide the following important documents:

• Your passport, two recent passport photographs and the relevant fee (currently £145 in your local currency).

• A visa letter. This will be issued by King’s as proof that you have been offered and accepted a place to study here and should include full details of your course of study, including the start and end dates. (This visa letter will begin to be replaced by an electronic ‘Confirmation of Acceptance of Studies’ from Autumn 2009).

• All the documents used to obtain your place which are mentioned in the visa letter (ie evidence of the qualifications required to secure your place at King’s).

• Evidence of your ability to meet, without working in the UK, the full costs of your course, fees, living costs and accommodation, and the costs of any dependants accompanying you. If you are on a course of less than one year you will need to show you have sufficient funds to cover your tuition fees for one year, plus £800 for each month you are in the UK, up to a maximum of nine months, plus £533 for each dependant for each month they will be with you in the UK, up to a maximum of nine months; if your course is longer than one year you will need to show evidence that you have the money to cover your first year’s fees, plus £7,200 living costs for your first year. You should check the UK Border Agency website for more detailed information on which documents are acceptable as evidence you meet the requirements.

• Graduate students coming to study certain science or mathematics-based courses will also be required to provide a clearance certificate for the Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS). Information about ATAS and a list of affected courses can be found at www.fco.gov.uk/atas

Entry clearance

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If you are required to provide an ATAS certificate then you must ensure you have obtained this before making your application for entry clearance.

• Applicants are now required to supply biometric data (fingerprints and iris scans) with their applications. Details of how to provide these can be found on the website of your local British Diplomatic Post.

• Applicants in some countries are required to undergo health screenings. Check with your local British Diplomatic Post if you are required to do this.

Introduction of the Points Based SystemThe information below was correct at the time of writing. However, due to ongoing changes to the new points based immigration system we recommend you check www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk for the most up-to-date information.

The Points Based System was introduced in February 2008 and means that people who wish to come to the UK to work or study now need to obtain ‘points’ in certain categories before they are granted a visa. Students apply to come to the UK under Tier 4 of the new system. Under this system visas are issued for a specific institution. When you are issued with your entry clearance it should say ‘King’s College London’ on the visa. If you decide to change your course or place of study you will need to obtain a new visa. Under the new system the College is required to inform the UK government if a student:

• fails to enrol on their course• stops attending their course• is absent without consent• withdraws from the course or defers their studies• changes their course or course length.

If you know you are going to be late and will miss enrolment you must contact King’s to see if it is possible to make alternative arrangements. If you decide to change your course or institution and have already applied for your visa you should seek advice from a Student Adviser.

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The Accommodation Services office is situated at the Strand Campus. Telephone calls are accepted on weekdays from 09.30 to 13.00 and 14.00 to 17.00. Calls are queued on an answering system and at busy times may be handled by a member of the College’s Student Centre.

King’s, Liberty Living and University of London intercollegiate residencesYou should have received the student accommodation booklet, My Digs. This includes information on how to submit your accommodation application online or obtain an application form. You must submit your accommodation application to the College Accommodation Services as soon as possible if you wish to be considered for a place in a College, Liberty Living or University-owned intercollegiate residence.

uNdErgrAduATE:All new international undergraduate students who are entering the College for the first time on a programme of two or more years’ duration and apply for accommodation by 30 June and who have firmly accepted the offer of an academic place at King’s for the full session will be offered a place in a College, Liberty Living or intercollegiate residence.

STudy AbroAd/ ExcHANgES:Study abroad, exchange and Socrates-Erasmus students who meet the application criteria will also normally receive an offer of accommodation.

Study abroad and exchange students entering in January 2010 must return accommodation forms by 30 November 2009.

grAduATE:A proportion of places are also offered to new international graduate students who have not lived or studied in the UK before and whose application for accommodation is received by 30 June. In the past we have been able to offer places to a number of late applicants as well, although this is not guaranteed.

Privately-let flats and housesThe supply of privately-let accommodation is greater and more varied in London than in many other parts of the country. Although Accommodation staff are not able to find private accommodation on a student’s behalf, they are available

Accommodation

Your first point of contact for advice and assistance on housing is the College Accommodation Services (www.kcl.ac.uk/accomm).

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to give help and advice on finding somewhere to live. The University of London Housing Services (see Contacts & maps for details) produces an excellent booklet for students seeking accommodation in the private sector. In addition, lists of hostels and accommodation agencies, and information on a wide range of housing issues are available. For further information visit www.studenthousing.lon.ac.uk

The University of London Housing Services are the specialists when it comes to supporting students who are looking for housing in the private sector. If you want to rent privately-let accommodation you are unlikely to secure this from abroad and you should arrange for temporary accommodation in a hotel or hostel for the first few days of your stay.

During vacations places are normally available in College residences, and further details of this are available from the Conference & Timetabling Services office (see Contacts & maps section for details).

Short-stay accommodation

budgET HoTELS ANd HoSTELSIf you need advice on budget accommodation in London before you move into King’s residences or private housing, visit http://housing.london.ac.uk/cms/short-term-housing.html (including lists of student hostels and inexpensive hotels).

HoSTELShttp://housing.london.ac.uk/cms/short-term-housing/hostels.html

INTErNATIoNAL STudENTS’ HouSEwww.ish.org.uk

Offers short stays as well as longer-term accommodation. They describe themselves as ‘a convenient and central place to stay for students when they first arrive in London before they find somewhere more permanent.’ Facilities include an internet café, fitness centre and films on a Sunday.

STopovEr AT KINg’SKing’s offers summer accommodation to independent travellers and groups; visit the following webpages for details.

www.kcl.ac.uk/about/structure/admin/facser/conbro/

For contact details for accommodation enquiries see Contacts & maps section.

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BankingOnce you have enrolled at King’s you should open a UK bank account so that your grant, scholarship or living allowance can be paid into it. This will give you access to money and is safer than carrying large amounts of cash. In many cases you may be able to use ATM machines in the UK to access your bank account at home until your UK bank account is set up but you are likely to be charged a handling fee each time you make a withdrawal. There are many banks in the UK and some may send representatives to the International Students’ Welcome and Orientation (see page 35) and/or the KCLSU Welcome Fair (see page 37).

Opening an accountBefore you open a bank account you should find out if the bank makes any charges for administration. Most international students should be allowed to open a ‘basic bank account’, which will allow you to deposit money and provide you with an ATM card so that you can withdraw cash. Basic bank accounts do not normally allow you a cheque book or credit facilities. If you are here on a course which lasts less than six months you may find it very difficult to open any sort of bank account in the UK.

If you are here for at least one year you may qualify for a special student current account, which includes free services to students provided that they remain in credit, an ATM card and a cheque book. Most international students will not be given an overdraft facility or a credit card issued by a UK bank. You should contact different banks to see what sort of account they are prepared to offer you. If your grant/ living allowance is paid in your national currency it will be subject to currency fluctuations and you may receive less than expected when you convert the money into sterling. We strongly advise that you make allowances for this. When opening a bank account you will need:

• an application form from the bank you want to open your account with• proof of identity (passport or EU National Identity Card)• confirmation of your full-time registration at King’s• evidence of your current London address• evidence of your overseas address.

You may also need evidence of funds appearing on your account. Branches of all the main banks are close to our campuses. Banking hours are usually 09.00-17.00 Monday to Friday and some branches are also open on Saturday morning. If you cannot open a bank account before you arrive in the UK, it is possible for you to wire/

Fees and living costs

Planning your finances can be confusing and stressful. On the following pages we’ve highlighted some key advice and procedures to help you.

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transfer money to a branch and it will be held for you to collect. Speak to your home bank about how to do this.

Think carefully about what type of account you want and make sure that they will send you regular statements as you will require these if you need to extend your student visa. See www.kcl.ac.uk/welfare for further information.

Transferring moneyThe most straightforward way to transfer money is a bankers draft in sterling. These normally take seven to ten days to clear. Don’t bring foreign currency cheques as they generally take at least 28 days to clear and will be subject to handling and exchange rate charges. Telex is the swiftest but most expensive form of transferring money (the best is the SWIFT system but you are still likely to pay handling charges to your own and the UK bank). Western Union money transfer offices are also available throughout London.

Payment of tuition and accommodation fees

pAymENT oF TuITIoN FEESFees are payable in two equal instalments. The first instalment (50 per cent of the total amount) is due for payment by 31 October or 14 days from date of invoice if this is later. The final instalment is due for payment by 31 January or 14 days from date of invoice if later. An early settlement refund of two per cent of total fees will be forwarded to students who make full payment of their tuition fees prior to 31 October or within 14 days of the date of invoice if later.

Where a student provides a valid sponsor letter at registration from an external corporate body agreeing to pay tuition fees, the invoice will be sent direct to the sponsoring organisation and payment of the invoice is due immediately.

In the event of non-payment of part or all fees by the sponsoring organisation the outstanding amount will be invoiced to the student and be payable within 14 days.

pAymENT oF AccommodATIoN FEESIf you are offered a place in College accommodation, Accommodation Services will send you full details of arrangements for payment of all accommodation fees.

There is a damage deposit (currently £150 for single person and £215 for couple accommodation) which must be paid to the hall of residence before you arrive

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in order to secure your room. This may not be paid via the internet. For more information visit www.kcl.ac.uk/accomm

Accommodation fees will normally be itemised on an invoice provided at the start of the session or the start of the Residence Agreement, whichever is the later date; payment is usually made by three instalments, details will be provided with your accommodation offer. Different accommodation rules and fees apply for Study Abroad and Socrates-Erasmus students. If you are in any doubt, please contact Accommodation Services.

mETHodS oF pAymENT• Always quote your student number and name as the payment reference. All

payments must be made in pounds sterling and any bank charges must be paid.

• Tuition and accommodation fees may be paid by credit or debit card. Payments can be made over the internet. See www.kcl.ac.uk/feepay for details and instructions.

• Cheque/bankers draft (in £ sterling) made payable to King’s College London and forwarded to the Credit Control Office are also accepted. Please write your name and student number on the back of the cheque and state whether the payment is for tuition fees or accommodation.

• Giro (tuition fees only) can be used to pay by cash or cheque and using the giro slip at the bottom of the tuition fee invoice. Students should only use the giro slip at a Natwest branch, otherwise, the College can incur a charge of around £30.

• Bank transfers can be made into the following account. Please ensure that your bank quotes your student number and if it is for accommodation or tuition fees.

Account name: King’s College LondonBank: National Westminster Bank plc, PO Box 221, Connaught House, 65 Aldwych, London WC2B 4EJSort code: 56-00-13Account Number: 96707402Bank Swift Code: NWBKGB2LBank Routing Number: IBAN No: GB51NWBK56001396707402

• Direct debit (accommodation fees only) can be drawn on a UK clearing bank and the completed mandate must be submitted to the Credit Control department by 30 September. Details of tuition fees can be found on our website at: www.kcl.ac.uk/ug for undergraduates, www.kcl.ac.uk/graduate for graduates.

Fees and living costs

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Insurance

pErSoNAL poSSESSIoNS INSurANcEIt is advisable to take out personal insurance to cover you against loss or damage to your personal belongings whilst you are at King’s. Many insurance companies in the UK offer such policies, but you may find it useful to contact Endsleigh Insurance www.endsleigh.co.uk which has produced a policy for students in conjunction with UKCISA and which also has an office on our Strand Campus.

You may want to take out a travel insurance policy to cover your belongings for the journey to the UK; you should arrange this in your home country before you travel.

For more information and advice speak to a Student Adviser or consult this website www.moneymadeclear.fsa.gov.uk/hubs/home_insurance.html

Expenses once you arrive

cASH, crEdIT cArdS ANd ATmsWe recommend that you bring about £250 with you to cover your immediate needs. If you have one, it’s a very good idea to bring a credit or debit card with you to pay for major items.

Credit and debit cards are accepted almost everywhere in London, from restaurants and bars to shops and even some taxis. American Express and Diner’s Club are less widely used than Visa and MasterCard. Make sure you know your four digit PIN (Personal Identification Number) as you’re likely to be asked to enter it in many stores.

ATMs (cash points) are everywhere across London; they accept cards from any bank in the world that is tied into the Visa, MasterCard, Delta, Cirrus or Maestro systems. Use them for cash withdrawals, but please check before you leave home how much your bank at home will charge you to use this service (surcharges can be costly).

cHANgINg moNEyRather than carrying large amounts of cash, it’s much safer to buy travellers cheques in GBP (sterling) as they’re insured against loss or theft. They can be cashed at all the airports, most high street banks and at currency exchange stores throughout the city. Compare rates and watch for the commission that is not always mentioned. The trick is to ask how many pounds you’ll receive in total before committing – you’ll lose nothing by shopping around.

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Living expensesLondon is almost without equal when it comes to ways in which to spend your money and enjoy your free time, whatever your interests. Even better, the opportunities to get the best out of London on a limited budget are enormous. London is affordable and the best time to take advantage of all that the city has to offer is as a student.

LoNdoN For FrEE London has one of the highest concentrations of world-class cultural and leisure-time attractions in the world including twice as many museums as Paris and New York. All the main national collections are free, including the British Museum, the National Gallery, the Science Museum and the Tate Galleries. Cultural venues also run free events such as lunchtime concerts and exhibitions.

LoNdoN For LESS The capital also boasts an incredible range of theatres, cinemas and concert venues, from the National Theatre and Barbican to much smaller venues. Student discounts on tickets are available virtually everywhere, with the cheapest tickets starting from as little as £10. We recommend that you invest in a guide such as Time Out London, which will give you an overview of where to go, where to avoid and how to get the best out of the capital for less. Also remember to make the most of the King’s College London Students’ Union (KCLSU) and all of the clubs, societies and leisure facilities that it offers at reduced prices.

INSIdEr TIpS Apart from using KCLSU and student guides to London, check out the London section of the international web pages at www.kcl.ac.uk/international. There you will find advice and tips from current students on how to maximise your budget in London. We also recommend looking at the www.londonforfree.net website.

LoNdoN oFFErS morE The benefits of studying in London can extend to valuable work experience. There is a vast range of career options in the capital, and all students have access to support from the Careers Service and King’s College London Business (the enterprise and innovation company of King’s) to help them find work experience or internships in a relevant career environment. There are also countless opportunities for part-time work to earn extra money, with jobs available on and off campus. See the ‘Working’ section (page 32) for details on regulations related to working in the UK.

Fees and living costs

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LIvINg ExpENSES pEr yEArYou need to ensure that you have sufficient funds for your fees and that you have enough money for accommodation, food, travel, books and other living expenses. The estimated living expenses per year for international students are as follows:

UndergraduateSingle student £8,944 Student and partner £13,104 + £4,600 per child

GraduateSingle student £11,117 Student and partner £17,222 + £4,600 per child

1. These figures represent the approximate sums required to live in reasonable comfort in London. Provision should also be made to cover unexpected or emergency expenses.

2. See page 11 for details on expenses when you arrive in the UK.3. The cost of travel to other parts of the UK or outside the UK is not included

in the estimate, nor is the cost of travel to and from your home country.4. Undergraduate students who only live in London during the academic year

should also allow for the additional cost of yearly flights.5. Graduate students should allow for additional expenses such as thesis

presentation, travel and books.6. Students following courses which involve placements should remember

to allow extra for additional travel expenses.7. Students who bring young children may also incur costs for childcare. For more

information on bringing your family to London please contact Student Advice & International Student Support.

If you have financial problems it is important to contact a Student Adviser as soon as possible; such problems could adversely affect your studies and even your right to stay in the UK.

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Before you leave

vAccINATIoNSBefore you come to the UK you should ensure that you are up-to-date with vaccinations against tetanus, polio, tuberculosis, meningitis C and MMR (measles/mumps/rubella two doses). These vaccinations are strongly recommended, as risk of infection when coming into contact with a new group of people is raised and there have been, for example, mumps outbreaks in UK universities during the last two years. You will be asked about your immunisation status when you register with a doctor, and offered any vaccinations that you have not had. You should therefore bring copies of any vaccination certificates you have with you. If you will be returning to a malarial area, seek medical advice as your immunity may be reduced during your stay here.

mEdIcATIoNSPlease remember that not all medications are available or advised in the same way in the UK as other countries. You need to bring copies of your medical records, and an adequate supply of medication to cover any time needed for specialist assessments prior to prescribing your medication in the UK.

HEALTH INSurANcEStudents who are in the UK for full-time programmes lasting six months or more are entitled to use the National Health Service (NHS) on the same basis as UK nationals. However, students who are registered for programmes lasting less than six months are not entitled to free healthcare under the National Health Service scheme. If this applies to you, you must make sure that you obtain adequate medical insurance before you leave your home country.

Once you arriveKing’s Health Centre gives full medical services including emergency advice and care. Information about services can be found at www.kingshealth.nhs.uk

Students not registered at the College can only be seen at the Health Centre in emergencies whilst at College. You do need to be registered with the Centre to use these services. In cases of accident, emergency treatment can be obtained from the nearest hospital accident and emergency department.

Health

This section provides some useful health related tips for you to consider before you leave home and once you arrive in London.

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• The emergency telephone number for the ambulance service is 999. Students can also attend NHS walk-in clinics or get advice by phone from NHS Direct.

• Charges are made for medicines prescribed by a doctor and also for dental treatment and spectacles.

• Students who are registered for programmes less than six months long may not be entitled to free healthcare under the NHS scheme unless the country they are from has a reciprocal agreement. If this applies to you then you should make sure you have adequate medical insurance before you leave your home country.

• The European Health Insurance Card (formerly form E111) is sufficient for EEA students; you must take out private medical insurance if your home country has no reciprocal scheme with the UK. Information on entitlements can be found on the Department of Health website www.dh.gov.uk

• The Health Centre is an NHS run centre and therefore will charge a consultation fee for students not entitled to NHS care.

rEgISTErINg wITH A docTorTo be eligible for NHS care you must register with a doctor as soon as possible after you arrive in the UK. If you live within the area covered by the NHS Health Centre within the College you can register there. Alternatively you should register with a local doctor, and you will find details of local doctors by phoning NHS Direct on +44 (0)845 4647 or visit www.nhs.uk

If you are not registered with a doctor it can be extremely diffcult to obtain emergency medical treatment and may be very expensive.

mENINgITISMeningitis is a very rare but serious illness. All students moving away from home for the first time are strongly advised to be vaccinated against meningitis group C. Unfortunately it is not possible to be vaccinated against all types of meningitis. Students should make themselves aware of the symptoms of this illness and get immediate medical help if they are worried that they might have contracted it. Symptoms include high fever, headache, vomiting, dislike of bright lights, neck stiffness and rash. Leaflets will be available at the start of term.

dENTAL cArEDental treatment is not free in the UK unless you are under 19 years of age. If you are able to register with the NHS you will pay 80 per cent of the treatment cost. Dentists and other local health services can be found at www.nhs.uk

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Arriving in London 17

From the airport to central London 22

From the airport to

college accommodation 24

A-Z of London 26

Essential websites 33

London

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Immigration & passport controlProvided that you have obtained the appropriate entry clearance and have all the relevant documentation with you, immigration and passport control procedures should not present you with any problems when you arrive in the UK, however you should carry your letter from King’s and proof of your finances in case the immigration officer wants to see them. If you do encounter any difficulties or are refused entry clearance you should contact the College’s Student Advice & International Student Support service (see Contacts & maps section) or the Immigration Advisory Service (IAS) and ask to see their representatives before taking action.

Registration with the policeSome non-EU and non-Commonwealth students admitted to the UK for more than six months are required to register with the police within seven days of arrival. The stamp in your passport will tell you whether it is necessary to do this. A fee is charged for each registration certificate. To register, students living in the Greater London Authority area should go to the registration office at The Overseas Visitors Record Office, (details within the Contacts & maps section), taking the fee, your passport, proof of your address in the UK and proof of your enrolment/unconditional offer from King’s. The registration office is near Borough underground station and is open Monday to Friday 09.00-16.00. You are strongly advised to arrive in the morning, as they sometimes close early when they are very busy.

Leave to remain (extension of stay)When you arrive in the UK, you will either already have been given prior entry clearance for either the full duration of your course or a shorter period, or your passport will be stamped allowing you permission to enter for a period up to a maximum of six months. You must check when your permission to stay expires. If you need to apply for an extension of your leave to remain as a student, you should obtain a Tier 4 (General) application form from the Home Office website at www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk at least four weeks before your current leave to remain expires. You should contact Student Advice & International Student Support who can advise on how to make your application, the documents required, and they may be able to send it to the Home Office for you under the Student Batch Scheme.

Arriving in London

The following section pulls together some of the key points to help you arrive in London safe and sound.

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Travel in London

Top TIpSGet an Oyster card as soon as possible. Oyster is the cheapest way to pay for single journeys on tubes, buses, DLR and certain trains in London. You can get a card at tube stations, some newsagents or online at www.tfl.gov.uk/oyster. As a student, you should only get an Oyster card this way if you are going to use ‘pay as you go’. You will have to pay a £3 deposit when you get the card. If you will be travelling regularly, you may want to get a season ticket. Student Oyster photocards give discounts on season tickets – see page 19 for details on how to get one.

Travelcards and Oyster faresThe London Transport area is divided into six zones – you only need to buy a Travelcard for zones 1 and 2 as all King’s campuses and residences are located within these. See below for details of discounts for students.

• Single journeys are significantly cheaper if you pay for them on an Oyster card. For example, a single cash fare within zone 1 costs £4, but a single Oyster fare is only £1.60. If you use your Oyster card to pay as you go, there is a daily ‘cap’ which means you will never pay more than the equivalent day ticket price for all your journeys. If you aren’t travelling that frequently these ‘pay as you go’ Oyster fares may be your best option. For details, pick up a leaflet from Tube stations or agents, or visit www.tfl.gov.uk/oyster

• You can add new Travelcard or Bus Pass season tickets or money to ‘pay as you go’ to your Oyster card at Tube stations and Transport for London’s network of Oyster Ticket Stops. Oyster cards are read by a yellow reader at the start and end of each tube journey. Always remember to touch in and out on the card reader at tube stations and touch in when using the buses (or you pay extra).

Arriving in London

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Student Oyster photocardIf you are travelling frequently you can get a special version of the Oyster card – the Student Oyster photocard. This gives you a 30 per cent discount on Travelcard and Bus Pass season tickets (seven days or more), but does not give a discount on the Oyster ‘pay as you go’ fares.

• Travelcards are valid for unlimited travel on Tube, Docklands Light Railway (DLR) and National Rail within the zones for which you have paid for, and unlimited bus travel on most London bus services.

• Travelcards including zones 3, 4, 5 or 6 are also valid for unlimited travel on trams.

• Tickets can be bought for seven days, one month or longer periods of up to one year.

• With the 30 per cent discount the cost is currently £18 per week or £69.20 per month, for a Travelcard for zones 1 and 2.

• Bus Pass season tickets cover all zones, cost £9.60 for a weekly ticket at the student rate and are valid on most London bus services and trams.

• Student Oyster photocards are available for a fee of £5 to students aged 18 and over who are enrolled on a full-time course. Apply online at www.tfl.gov.uk/photocard

To apply online you need a digital photo and to be able to pay the administration fee using a credit or debit card. If this isn’t possible we can provide you with a paper application form. You can apply for your Student Oyster photocard as soon as you have registered and enrolled at King’s. Full details at www.tfl.gov.uk/photocard

Apply as soon as you are enrolled, as an application can take up to two weeks to process.

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Explore London

ESSENTIAL wEbSITES:www.tfl.gov.uk (all the information you need on travel)www.tfl.gov.uk/journeyplanner (details the best route for your journey)www.streetmap.co.uk (enter street name for an online map of its location)

By tube (underground): www.tfl.gov.uk/tube/maps

By bus: www.tfl.gov.uk/buses

Travel by bus is cheaper than by tube (you are more likely to get a seat and it’s a great way to familiarise yourself with the city) but journeys take a little longer. You can put your bus pass onto your Oyster card.

By train: Trains rather than the Underground serve parts of south west and south east London. Oyster cards can only be used on certain trains. Go to www.tfl.gov.uk for details.

On foot: London is made for walking. Stroll in the parks and discover the centre of town for free. You’ll find an A-Z street map indispensable. Download these riverwalks at www.southbanklondon.com/walkthisway

Driving: Please note, should you wish to drive in central London a congestion charge is applicable (£8 a day). The majority of students prefer to use public transport (as parking is also expensive and not available on campus). For information on the rules and regulations relating to driving in the UK, please read the UKCISA guidance note ‘Driving in the United Kingdom’ at www.ukcisa.org.uk/student/information_sheets.php#driving or contact Student Advice & International Student Support.

Taxis: Hail one of London’s famous black cabs in the street. Look out for the orange light that shows they’re available for hire. The other types of taxis are mini-cabs which can be hired from their local offices by requesting one in person or telephoning in advance. You can agree a price in advance or ask the driver to switch on the meter.

Mini-cabs cannot be hailed in the street. Never ever accept a lift on the street from anyone claiming to be from a mini-cab firm. This is very risky, as they are unlicensed and illegal. Transport for London has launched a service to help you get home safely. It’s a text message facility called ‘Cabwise’. When you’re out and about, just text ‘HOME’ to 60835 and the telephone numbers of your two nearest licensed minicab operators will be sent directly to your mobile phone.

Arriving in London

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Travel around the UK & the rest of Europe There is an extensive rail network covering large parts of the UK. You always get the best deals by buying tickets as far in advance as possible. You can do this at major stations such as King’s Cross, Liverpool Street or London Waterloo or online www.thetrainline.com. Get train times, route and fare information at www.nationalrail.co.uk or phone 08457 48 49 50. It is worth investing in a 16-25 Railcard (only available to those aged 16-25). This costs £20 and will entitle you to a 33 per cent discount on train travel www.16-25railcard.co.uk

See www.eurostar.com for details of trains to Continental Europe from London. Eurostar trains depart from St Pancras International Station.

pLANES:Budget flights often depart from London City, Stansted and Luton airports, as well as Heathrow and Gatwick. Check out www.easyjet.com or www.ryanair.com for their deals as well as the major carriers. www.statravel.co.uk, www.expedia.co.uk and www.lastminute.com are good for bargains. STA Travel have a branch in our Students’ Union at the Strand Campus.

coAcHES:Coaches are usually cheaper than trains and go to all parts of the UK and the rest of Europe too. Coaches leave from Victoria Coach Station on Buckingham Palace Road (about five minutes walk from Victoria rail station). Students can buy a Young Person’s Coach Card which gives a reduction of up to 30 per cent on many fares. Timetable and fare information is available on www.nationalexpress.com

ISIcMake sure that you get an International Student Identity Card (ISIC), which will entitle you to discounts on a range of goods and services all over the world. See www.isic.org for more details. The National Union of Students Extra Card (www.nusonline.co.uk) also gives you discounts.

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From Heathrow Airport www.heathrowairport.com

by uNdErgrouNd Heathrow has three Underground stations on the Piccadilly Line (dark blue): one for Terminals 1, 2 & 3 and one each at Terminal 4 and Terminal 5. Follow signs for the Underground or ask for directions.

Journey time to London is 50-60 minutes.

by TrAIN – HEATHrow ExprESS www.heathrowexpress.comThe Heathrow Express offers the fastest journey between the airport and central London.

A non-stop high speed link runs from all Heathrow terminals to Paddington Station every 15 minutes. You can book tickets online in advance (tickets are £3 cheaper). Tickets are £16.50 one way from the ticket office and machines (£19.50 on board).

Journey time is 15 minutes.

by NATIoNAL ExprESS AIrporT coAcH www.nationalexpress.comThe service runs approximately every 30 minutes and starts at the Central Bus Station at Heathrow, terminating in central London at Victoria Coach Station. One way tickets cost £4.

Journey time is approximately 45-70 minutes.

Travel into London

QuIcK TIpThe Heathrow, Gatwick and Stansted Express trains offer efficient travel into central London from these airports. An alternative and more expensive option would be by black taxi. It is not recommended to travel with private hire taxis unless booked in advance with a reputable company.

From the airport to central London

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From Gatwick Airport www.gatwickairport.com

by TrAINThe station is situated in the South Terminal.

gATwIcK ExprESS www.gatwickexpress.comNon-stop high speed link runs every 15 minutes.

Tickets are £16.90 one way from the ticket office and machines. You can book tickets online in advance.

Journey time is 30 minutes.

SouTHErN rAILwAy www.southernrailway.comServices run every 15 minutes during the day to London Victoria and every hour at night. Fares between London Victoria and Gatwick Airport are £10.90 one way, giving a saving of £6 compared to Gatwick Express. You can purchase tickets to Gatwick using the Southern WebTIS (Web Ticket Issuing System).

Journey time is 35 minutes.

FIrST cApITAL coNNEcT www.firstcapitalconnect.co.ukDirect Services run to London Bridge and King’s Cross Thameslink station. There are four daytime services an hour to central London and hourly throughout the night. Costs £7.90 for a single booked seven days in advance.

Journey time to London Bridge is around 30 minutes.

by NATIoNAL ExprESS AIrporT coAcH www.nationalexpress.comRuns to Victoria Coach Station from Terminal 2. One way ticket costs £7.30. There are 19 services per day.

Journey time is around 90 minutes.

By Eurostar www.eurostar.comEurostar trains into central London arrive at St Pancras International station.

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From Heathrow Airportwww.heathrowairport.com

To KINg’S coLLEgE HALL Either: Use the Underground from Heathrow to Waterloo Station. Take the Piccadilly Line (dark blue) eastbound and get off at Green Park. Make your way to the Jubilee Line (silver) eastbound and go to Waterloo. At Waterloo go up to the main station concourse and follow the signs for the taxi rank. A black cab to King’s College Hall will cost around £15. Or: Take the Heathrow Express to Paddington Station. Take the Underground Bakerloo Line (brown) southbound to Waterloo. At Waterloo take a black taxi cab to King’s College Hall.

To brIAN crEAmEr HouSE ANd THE rEcTory Either: Take the Heathrow Express to Paddington Station. At Paddington take a black cab from the taxi rank to your residence (about £10 depending on the traffic).Or: At Paddington, use the Underground and take the Bakerloo Line (brown) to Waterloo and walk 10 minutes to the residence.

To HAmpSTEAd rESIdENcE Either: Take the Heathrow Express to Paddington Station. At Paddington take a black cab from the taxi rank to your residence.Or: Take the National Express Airport coach to Victoria Coach Station. From Victoria Station take a black taxi cab to Hampstead Residence (about £22, depending on traffic).Or: Use the Underground – take the Piccadilly Line (dark blue) towards Rayners Lane (NOT Cockfosters) and get off at Rayners Lane. Change onto the Metropolitan Line (purple) eastbound to Finchley Road. From Finchley Road take a black cab to Hampstead Residence (about £8).

To STAmFord STrEET ApArTmENTS Either: Take the Heathrow Express to Paddington Station. Take a black taxi cab to the hall (at least £16, depending on traffic).Or: Use the Underground from Heathrow to Waterloo Station – take the Piccadilly line (dark blue) eastbound to Green Park. At Green Park change onto the Jubilee Line (silver) eastbound to Waterloo. The apartments are only about 200 metres from Waterloo Station, but if you have lots of luggage it will be easiest to take a black taxi cab to the residence.

From the airport to College accommodation

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To grEAT dovEr STrEET ApArTmENTS & woLFSoN HouSE Either: Use the Underground from Heathrow to London Bridge. Take the Piccadilly Line (dark blue) eastbound to Green Park. At Green Park change onto the Jubilee Line (silver) eastbound to London Bridge. Take a black taxi cab to the residence (around £5). Wolfson House is a five-minute walk to the station, but if you have lots of luggage you may find it easiest to take a taxi.Or: Take the Heathrow Express to Paddington, then a black taxi cab to the residence.

To INTErcoLLEgIATE HALLSTake the Heathrow Express to Paddington Station. Take a black taxi cab to your residence.

From Gatwick Airport

To KINg’S coLLEgE HALLTake the Gatwick Express or Southern train to Victoria Station. If you arrive late or have lots of heavy luggage, take a taxi from Victoria. It will cost approximately £20, depending on traffic.

To brIAN crEAmEr HouSE ANd THE rEcToryTake the Gatwick Express or Southern train to Victoria Station. At Victoria take a black taxi cab from the stand outside the station’s main entrance (costing around £10).

To HAmpSTEAd rESIdENcETake the Gatwick Express or train to Victoria Station. From Victoria Station, take a taxi to the residence (costing around £20), or the No 82 bus.

To STAmFord STrEET ApArTmENTSTake the Gatwick Express or Southern train to Victoria Station. At Victoria take a black taxi cab from the stand outside the main entrance, costing around £10.

To grEAT dovEr STrEET ApArTmENTS ANd woLFSoN HouSEAt Gatwick take a First Capital Connect train to London Bridge Station. Take a black taxi cab to the residence (around £4). Wolfson House is a five-minute walk to the station, but if you have lots of luggage you may find it easiest to take a taxi.

To INTErcoLLEgIATE HALLSEither: Take the Gatwick Express or Southern train to Victoria Station. At Victoria take a black taxi cab from the stand outside the station to your residence.Or: Take a First Capital Connect train to King’s Cross. At King’s Cross take a black taxi cab.

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b

A-Z of London

Council taxThis is an additional property tax for which some students used to be liable. Since 1 April 2004 most full-time students are exempt. The Compass (see Contacts & maps section) can provide you with a Council Tax Exemption Certificate, which will confirm your full-time student status. You will need to send this to the Local Authority in which you live. Spouses and dependants of international students are also exempt from payment if the terms of their leave to enter or remain in the UK prevent them from taking paid employment OR having recourse to public funds. If a non-dependent member of your family or a friend comes to

stay for an extended period, this may affect the council tax status of the property. You must notify the local authority if its assumption about your council tax exemption is wrong. For further advice on council tax issues please contact Student Advice & International Student Support.

bBars & pubsThere are bars and pubs located on almost every London street. There are venues to suit all tastes, whether you want a quiet pint, live music or comedy, bars with themes, karaoke, wine-tasting or a pub with great food. With all this choice it can be quite confusing, but there are lots of guides and websites that can help you plan a great evening out:

www.beerintheevening.com

www.london-drinking.com

www.fancyapint.com

The Students’ Union (KCLSU) operate two bars specifically for King’s students. Both offer a range of drinks and food at student friendly prices throughout the daytime and evenings. At Guy’s Campus, Guy’s Bar can be found in the basement of Boland House. At Strand Campus, the Waterfront with its spectacular views over the Thames.

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Eating outLondon offers excellent value for money and every cuisine you can imagine.

rEcommENdEd cHEAp EATS guIdE: Time Out Cheap Eats in London

oNLINE: www.visitlondon.com/attraction/eat (the value eats section is excellent)

SEArcH pLAcES To EAT IN your LocALITy: www.timeout.com/london/restaurants

SpEcIAL oFFErS AT LoNdoN’S Top rESTAurANTS: www.toptable.co.uk

DiscountsAs a student, it can cost you less to enjoy London than at any other time of your life. With around 16 per cent of the UK total student population living in London, the capital is well geared up for students.

There are subsidised on-campus facilities and services provided by KCLSU and the University of London’s students’ union (ULU) (shops, cafés, bars, gyms and clubs and societies).

TrAvEL: 30 per cent reduction on most Transport for London public transport with Student Oyster Photocard (see page 19).

cINEmA: student discounts available at most cinemas.

FASHIoN: 10-15 per cent discounts from a variety of stores.

INSurANcE: special rates through companies such as Endsleigh.

ISIc cArd: Make sure that you get an International Student Identity Card (ISIC), which will entitle you to discounts on a range of goods and services all over the world. See www.isic.org for more details.

NuS ExTrA cArd: offers discounts on things like mobiles, books, computers and electronic equipment as well as tickets, food, music and travel, www.nus.org.uk

EntertainmentLondon has over 250 museums and 1,500 libraries, including the world-renowned British Museum and British Library. On top of this, London has countless numbers of theatres, live music venues, comedy nights, art galleries, cinemas, street markets, festivals, sports arenas and nightclubs... the list is endless and incredibly diverse, plus many things are free or reduced for students!

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GymKinetic Fitness Club, found at Waterloo Campus, is run by KCLSU for King’s students and provides high quality gym facilities, a personal training service and range of classes. Students receive a substantial discount on membership fees, see www.kclsu.org/kinetic for more information.

Free LondonEnjoying art, music, clubs and entertainment in London needn’t incur a charge. London always has a great bill of free gigs, comedy nights and art galleries for you to enjoy (none of our great national collections housed in museums charge entrance fees).

FoodThe best places to buy food and snacks cheaply are from the major supermarkets.

Look out for Tesco Metro and Sainsbury’s Central stores in key locations throughout central London. Smaller grocery stores tend to be much more expensive. Ask your hall manager for the closest supermarket to your hall of residence.

TESco www.tesco.com

SAINSburyS www.sainsburys.co.uk

ASdA (wALmArT) www.asda.co.uk

morrISoNS www.morrisons.co.uk

InternetThe College provides free email accounts for all students and there are designated areas and access points to check emails and search the internet. The wireless networking service at King’s is compatible with PCs, Macs and handheld devices (PDAs). If you have a computer with a wireless network adapter, the service is available at a number of key locations

A-Z of London

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Money and budgetingFor help and advice on budgeting and managing your money, please contact Student Advice & International Student Support (see Contacts & maps section) who run budgeting sessions and can offer general advice.

You can also create an online budget using the KCLSU Student Calculator. Visit www.kslcu.org/calculator

Mobile (Cell) phonesWhen buying a mobile phone (cell phone) research the following things first; Think about the amount of money you are prepared to spend on phone calls. Look into which companies’ offer the best rates for international and UK text messaging (SMS) and call services. Companies such as TalkTalk and Orange offer competitive packages; useful websites which provide information on mobile providers and services in the UK are www.carphonewarehouse.com and www.mobiles.co.uk

You can also get helpful hints from current students or the International Students’ Welcome and Orientation.

across campuses and residences, including libraries, information service centres and lecture theatres.

If you are living in private accommodation and you own a laptop or computer and modem, you have a multitude of service providers to choose from within the UK, such as BT, Tiscali and Virgin Media.

Other options are using prepay sessions at public libraries and internet cafés (eg easynet café) for timed sessions.

SkypeAnother great way to communicate is with Skype. All you need to do is download the software which allows you to make free calls to anybody that has Skype worldwide www.skype.com

m pPart-time workSee also (Working page 32). If you decide to supplement your income with part-time work, there are generally a number of opportunities available through the Students’ Union either working in venues, student centres or in clerical positions supporting full-time staff. Recruitment takes place prior to and during the first few weeks of term. See www.kslcu.org/studentstaff for more details.

The Careers Service also has an online vacancy database with part-time work opportunities. Visit www.kcl.ac.uk/jobonline

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SafetyKeep a copy of your vital documents, for example your passport and entry clearance, in a safe place separate from the originals.

A lot of the issues about being safe in London are the same as in any other major city in the world.

Top TIpS• Don’t carry your

passport, credit cards and cash in one bag

• It isn’t necessary to carry your passport with you at all times in the UK – it is safer to leave it at home!

Safe rides at nightTake a night bus back home (check your route at www.tfl.gov.uk) or always take a licensed taxi ‘black cab’ or mini-cab. If you text HOME to 60835 from a mobile phone you will receive a text message with two numbers for licensed taxi firms in your immediate area (very useful if you are out late anywhere in London).

ShoppingShopaholics should note that London has the best shopping opportunities in the UK, with plenty of opportunities to find bargains. Do remember to avoid obvious tourist traps and look out for student discounts. As well as all the regular high street shops, London also boasts a wide range of specialist shops and markets. The Time Out Shops and Services Guide has good tips on where to shop.

• Don’t have your mobile phone or iPod too visible

• Watch out for traffic – remember we drive on the left side of the road which is opposite to most of the world

• Don’t carry large amounts of cash and be vigilant when withdrawing cash from an ATM machine

• Try not to travel alone after dark, keep to busy well lit streets and try to plan your journey before you leave home.

PharmaciesSearch for your nearest pharmacy at www.nhs.uk/servicedirectories

Phonecards and public telephonesA number of public telephones in the UK are coin-operated and/or card-operated. Calls will need to be paid with a credit card or listed phonecard. Phonecards are valued at different amounts ie £2, £5, £10. These can be purchased from newsagents, post offices and supermarkets. Planet Phone Card (otherwise known as international phonecard, calling cards/international calling cards) offers up to 90 per cent discount on calls, are prepaid and can be supplied directly by email and to a mobile phone by text message (SMS). www.planetphonecards.com

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A-Z of London

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TelephonescALLINg AbroAd From THE uKThere are several ways to keep in contact with friends and family while studying in the UK. Many international students recommended pay-as-you-go mobile phone packages, prepaid phone cards and public telephones.

WebsitesTop five essential websites for London:

www.timeout.com/london (things to do in London)

www.visitlondon.com (the official website for London)

www.tfl.gov.uk/journeyplanner (getting around the capital)

www.viewlondon.co.uk (the Londoner’s guide to London)

www.streetmap.co.uk or maps.google.co.uk (detailed maps of every London street)

SportFrom football, rugby, cricket and tennis, to more unusual sports with skates and kites, London is host to a wealth of sporting events and activities. www.visitlondon.com/sport

There are also a range of opportunities to play sport either competitively or just recreationally through the Students’ Union (KCLSU). You can join any of more than 50 different sports clubs. Find out more at www.kclsu.org/sport and make sure you attend the Welcome Fair (24 and 25 September, Waterloo Campus) during Welcome Weeks to meet the students running each club and join up.

T wTV licencesIn the UK you need to have a licence to view programmes on your own television. If you have a TV with you, make sure you get a licence or you may be prosecuted. Each individual room with a TV in a hall of residence requires its own licence. The halls of residence do not provide an ‘umbrella licence’ – you are responsible for getting one for your room.

If you are living in private accommodation and have a joint tenancy agreement then you must ensure there is a TV licence for your house or flat. Full details are available at www.tvlicensing.co.uk (it costs £142.50 per year). The fine for non-payment can be up to £1,000.

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a programme of longer than six months, you can expect to be given a ‘restriction’ rather than a ‘prohibition’ on working as a condition of your student visa. A ‘restriction’ allows you to work up to 20 hours per week during term-time (though some restrictions on the type of work you can do apply), to work full-time during the vacations or, and for up to four months after you have completed your course (while your student visa is still valid). Visit the Careers Service for advice on

WorkingMost EU, EEA and Swiss nationals are automatically entitled to work in the UK without restriction. However, nationals of the ‘A8’ EU Accession Countries which joined in 2004 have to register their employment with the Home Office under the Worker Registration Scheme. Romanian and Bulgarian nationals are required to apply for permission before they can start working. The details of these schemes are complicated; for further information please visit www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk and contact Student Advice & International Student Support for advice.

Many non-EEA nationals are also allowed to work during their studies. If you are coming for

A-Z of London

finding a suitable job. Remember though, in order to obtain a student visa you will need to demonstrate that you can fund the entire cost of your studies without needing to work in the UK.

If you have a ‘prohibition’ you are not allowed to work (this includes voluntary work or work experience placements). It is sometimes possible to get this prohibition lifted. For more information please contact Student Advice & International Student Support.

wWork (part-time)For information about working part-time alongside your studies, please refer to page 29.

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Essential websites

Essential websitesIn preparing to come and study at King’s, it’s important to familiarise yourself with all aspects of the College, and life in London.

As well as reading our suggestions, we recommend you visit the websites indicated throughout so you are thoroughly prepared to have the best possible experience at King’s. We’ve also put together the following essential websites which we recommend you visit.

KINg’S wEbSITES For:• International students www.kcl.ac.uk/international

• Undergraduates www.kcl.ac.uk/ug

• Graduates www.kcl.ac.uk/graduate

• Study abroad & exchange students (non EU) www.kcl.ac.uk/studyabroad

• Socrates-Erasmus students www.kcl.ac.uk/international/abroad/prospective/exchange/

• Email a current King’s student from your country or studying your subject www.kcl.ac.uk/chat

FuNdINg wEbSITES For:• King’s country specific scholarships

www.kcl.ac.uk/international/finance/scholarships

• King’s graduate specific funding www.kcl.ac.uk/gradfunding

• King’s undergraduate specific funding www.kcl.ac.uk/ug/funding

ExTErNAL wEbSITES wITH FuNdINg INFormATIoN:• Search for ‘student finance’ at www.direct.gov.uk

• Search for ‘funding your studies’ at www.britishcouncil.org

‘King’s environment, its location in the heart of London, international exchange and diversity make the experience at the college unique. The teaching arrangements combined with student seminars enable students to get the most out of their education. King’s relationship with external organisations also makes the experience inclusive.’

Valon Ahmeti Intelligence & International Security MA, Kosovo

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First few weeks 35

calendar 38

Support services 40

At King’s

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International Students’ Welcome and OrientationThe annual International Students’ Welcome and Orientation Programme is the welcome event for new international students. When you first arrive in the UK you may be unfamiliar with aspects of life and study in this country.

Orientation has been specially designed to cover key topics such as:

• adjusting to a new academic culture • dealing with culture shock • health • insurance • study skills • working • staying safe • opening a bank account • student discounts and saving money (on travel, food, books, phones, movies etc).

You will also have the chance to find out what the students’ union (www.kclsu.org) has to offer and there will also be plenty of opportunity to meet other new international students and enjoy a range of social activities.

The main Welcome and Orientation Programme for full-degree students will take place between Wednesday 16 September and Friday 18 September. Places are limited, so please apply early. For more information and an online booking form please go to www.kcl.ac.uk/international or email orientation@kcl.ac.uk

If you can’t attend the main Welcome and Orientation, we are running a number of additional specialist international orientation events. We strongly recommend that you attend an international orientation event:

• For Erasmus-Socrates students and those unable to attend the main event there will be an orientation event on 22 September 2009.

First few weeksThe first few weeks at anywhere new can seem daunting, but this chapter will give you an outline of what you can expect at King’s and hopefully ease any nerves.

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• Study Abroad and Exchange Students’ Orientation (compulsory for all students studying at King’s for one semester or a full academic year from the US or from a partner university) will be held in September 2009 and January 2010.

• International students following a graduate research course are welcome to attend specific sessions jointly organised by Student Advice & International Student Support and the Graduate School which will focus on academic issues as well as general welfare and immigration. Events will take place in October 2009 and January 2010.

• Institute of Psychiatry International Students’ Day on 28 September 2009.

For full details of the range of Welcome and Orientation events for international students, please see www.kcl.ac.uk/international or contact Student Advice & International Student Support by emailing orientation@kcl.ac.uk

College inductionIn addition to the welcome events specially provided for international students, all new students should attend an induction session with their department. Full details of introductory briefings and tours to familiarise yourself with departmental staff and subject specific resources and facilities will be sent to you by your School.

A special welcome for all research graduates is organised by the Graduate School. One event will be held in early October 2009 with an additional event being held in January 2010 for students registering later in the year. Book your place on www.kcl.ac.uk/graduate

The first few weeks

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Registration & enrolmentRegistration at the College and enrolment onto your degree programme usually takes place in the third week in September (week beginning 21 September 2009), and is the point at which you will become a student at King’s. Please note that every School Office works to different deadlines, therefore the timings could vary by up to two weeks. Details about when, where and how to register will be sent to you by your School Office approximately three to four weeks before the start of the academic session.

Some School Offices send a letter asking for students to collect their packs in person when they arrive. If you have not received anything two weeks before you are due to arrive then please contact your School Office (see Contact & maps section). Once you have registered you will be given your College identity card, which you must keep with you at all times when you are at the College. The card will enable you to use College services such as the libraries, the computing facilities and so on.

KCLSU Welcome Weeks During the first two weeks of term (following the International Students’ Welcome and Orientation) KCLSU organise a number of social events that will give you the opportunity to meet your fellow new students and get a flavour of some of the activities that are on offer to you during the rest of your time at King’s. A highlight of the Welcome Weeks is the Welcome Fair, to be held on 24 and 25 September at Waterloo Campus. The fair will showcase all the student sports clubs, societies and other activity groups available, allowing you to chat to those students already involved and find out more. Look out for information on Welcome Weeks events at www.kclsu.org during August prior to arrival.

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Calendar

THrougHouT THE yEAr

KCLSU eventsKCLSU organise a special timetable of events during the first two weeks of term (see page 37) and run other events throughout the year.

Graduate School eventsUnlocking London is a programme of events throughout the year designed especially for King’s graduates who have never previously lived in London. It offers graduates an insight into London, an opportunity to meet their counterparts in other Departments and Schools and to make new friends. See the Graduate School website for further details, www.kcl.ac.uk/graduate/school

16-18 SEpTEmbEr 2009International Students’ Welcome and Orientation (see page 35)

22 SEpTEmbEr 2009Mini-Orientation (including Erasmus students)

23 SEpTEmbEr 2009Study Abroad Orientation (fall semester)

24 SEpTEmbEr 2009Study Abroad boat trip. KCLSU Welcome Fair at Waterloo Campus

25 SEpTEmbEr 2009KCLSU Welcome Fair at Waterloo Campus

28 SEpTEmbEr 2009Institute of Psychiatry Orientation

SEpTEmbEr 2009If your visa is due to expire soon look out for our visa extension workshop.

31 ocTobEr 2009Visa deadline! Many students will find that their current visas are due to expire on 31 October. If your visa is due to expire you must ensure that you start preparing your application for an extension at least one month before this date, and that you have enough money in your bank account for at least 28 days prior to submitting your extension application.

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‘one advantage of studying at King’s has definitely been the international atmosphere. London itself is a very cosmopolitan city and with so many nationalities represented within the student body at King’s, I have felt part of a varied and rich academic community.’

Giulia Merlo Comparative Literature MA, Italy

28 ocTobEr 2009Social event for international students with dependants.

dEcEmbEr 2009If your visa is due to expire soon look out for our visa extension workshop.

6 JANuAry 2010Study Abroad Orientation (spring semester).

31 JANuAry 2010Visa deadline! Many students will find that their current visas are due to expire on 31 January. If your visa is due to expire you must ensure that you start preparing your application for an extension at least one month before this date, and that you have enough money in your bank account for at least 28 days prior to submitting your extension application.

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STudENT AdvIcE & INTErNATIoNAL STudENT SupporT They have experience in helping students with a wide range of issues covering immigration advice, money management, legal issues and housing.

THE compASSA ‘one stop shop’ for all student enquiries with a quiet study area. Compass online – available 24 hours a day via oneSpace. Answers to FAQ’s, with the facility to send an enquiry to the Compass Team.

cArEErS SErvIcEKing’s has one of the best careers services in the UK and offers students a wide range of assistance to help them pursue their career interests both in the UK and abroad.

couNSELLINgCounsellors work within Student Services on the main campuses. Their aim is to enable students to make the most of their time at College by helping them to cope with any problems or difficulties of a personal or emotional nature.

ENgLISH LANguAgE cENTrEThe Centre offers a wide range of language and study skills courses that run both before and during your degree. Courses are open to both native and non-native speakers.

Support services

‘before applying for undergraduate study I attended the Foundation programme at the English Language centre, which was a great experience. It prepared me for studying in the united Kingdom and helped me to improve my English, as well as develop skills essential for studying. I received advice and help whenever I needed it and now I can enjoy being an undergraduate student!’

Aleksandra Wiecka European Studies BA, Poland

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AT KIN

g’S

rELIgIouS provISIoN & pASTorAL cArEThe College has had strong Anglican (Church of England) traditions since its foundation. All major world faiths are represented at King’s, and the rights and views of students of all beliefs and backgrounds are fully respected; provision is made for people to practise their faith.

EQuALITy & dIvErSITy dEpArTmENTThe College has a dedicated Equality & Diversity Department that is open to all students for information and advice on any equalities-related issue. They also provide access to the International Students with Disabilities Fund (ISDF) for equipment and services.

STudENTS wITH dISAbILITIESThe Disability Support Team, based within the Equality & Diversity Department offers disability-related information and advice.

STudENTS’ uNIoN (KcLSu)KCLSU provides a free, impartial and confidential service that compliments those provided by the College. They operate drop-in sessions or you can make an appointment in advance. Visit www.kclsu.org/advice for more information.

‘The student activity organised by KcLSu really helped me settle into life at King’s and make new friends. being involved in KcLSu made my time at King’s so enjoyable that I wanted everyone to benefit from the same experience. This motivated me to stand for election as vice president Student media and Engagement to help ensure every student has a channel to voice their opinion.’

Pete Ellender Vice President Student Media and Engagement

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before you leave home 43

day of travel 44

First two weeks 45

Check lists

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cH

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Accept your offer

understand your fee status and organise how you will pay the fees (page 9). The first payment for tuition fees and accommodation fees are paid on arrival

read up on London and how it can support your academic and personal aims (see A-Z of London section)

Find out if you are entitled to any grants, loans or scholarships

If you have a disability, look into support and funding available before you enrol (page 41)

Ensure you have completed immigration procedures. do you need a visa or entry clearance? (page 3) Is your passport valid?

Think about income and expenditure and work out an estimated budget

research your accommodation options. See online for more information www.kcl.ac.uk/accomm

Apply online for your King’s accommodation (page 6) and organise payment for the accommodation deposit

If you choose to live in private accommodation, organise accommodation for your first night in London. Look for budget hotels and hostels, privately-let flats and houses, whatever suits your budget (page 6)

book a place on the International Students’ welcome and orientation programme (early registration advised) (page 35)

check the dates for registration & enrolment

Book your flight to arrive in time for International Students’ Welcome and orientation programme

Find out your transfer routes from the airport to your halls/accommodation (page 24)

Ensure you are up-to-date with required vaccinations

If you would like to attend English lessons before you start your course contact the English Language centre (see Contacts & maps section)

Email a King’s student to see if they have any advice www.kcl.ac.uk/chat

read this Welcome Guide thoroughly!

plan the clothes you want to pack

prepare your documents for day of travel

Check list: before you leave home

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passport endorsed with your visa or entry clearance (if required). please check well in advance. pack this into your hand luggage

Your final official offer letter (not a photocopy). pack this into your hand luggage

Proof of financial support ie three months of bank statements, letters or other documents to prove that you can pay your fees for the first year of your course and your living expenses whilst you are in the uK. These must be originals or other documents proving that, not photocopies

Confirmation letter from your sponsor, if you have been awarded a scholarship (not a photocopy). pack this into your hand luggage

Cash and travellers cheques to cover your first few days and weeks in London. divide this up between your suitcase and hand luggage

passport-sized photos – you’ll need these for a variety of cards at the start of term. A batch of six will be useful

A photocopy of your passport and other legal documents but remember to keep these separate from the originals

Health insurance documents

Supply of any medication that you are taking. bring full medication details to show a doctor if necessary

copies of travel insurance policies

Address and directions to accommodation from airport and contact telephone number

This handbook!

wHAT NoT To TAKEThere are stringent security and customs regulations for international travel. These vary according to your airline and country of departure. check with your airline for details of which items you are not permitted to carry in your hand luggage.

Check list: on the day of travel – what to take

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cH

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check you have been given the correct end date on your visa

Attend International Students’ welcome and orientation

Attend registration/enrolment

Attend department induction

make sure you have registered or bought tickets for KcLSu welcome events, available at www.kclsu.org during September

Attend KCLSU Welcome Fair (find out about all the clubs and societies available)

buy a student travelcard if appropriate

Find out your timetable

Pay tuition fees (or first half installment)

Pay accommodation fees (or first installment)

register with the police (if required)

open a uK bank account

get your kcl.ac.uk email account and check it regularly

register with a doctor

Get your King’s student identification card

get your ISIc card www.isic.org

get insurance for your belongings

buy a London A-Z (every Londoner’s essential street guide)

Find your local shops and supermarket

check out the libraries and Information Service centres (IScs)

contact the English Language centre if you think you need extra language support

get involved in college activities

Ensure you attend your classes

Enjoy meeting other students from all over the world!

Check list: first two weeks

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contact details 47

useful maps 52

Contacts & maps

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School offices(for full degree undergraduate and graduate students)

ScHooL oF bIomEdIcAL & HEALTH ScIENcESStudent Admissions Office King’s college London Hodgkin building guy’s campus London SE1 1uL

Tel: +44 (0)20 7848 6511 Fax: +44 (0)20 7848 6510 Email: guysadmissions@kcl.ac.uk

dENTAL INSTITuTE

undergraduateStudent Admissions Office King’s college London Hodgkin building guy’s campus London SE1 1uL

Tel: +44 (0)20 7848 6512 Fax: +44 (0)20 7848 6510 Email: guysadmissions@kcl.ac.uk

graduateAcademic centre King’s college London 2nd floor, Henriette Raphael Building guy’s campus London SE1 1uL

Tel: +44 (0)20 7848 6705 Fax: +44 (0)20 7848 6730 Email: ian.sanderson@kcl.ac.uk

ScHooL oF mEdIcINE

undergraduateStudent Admissions Office King’s college London Hodgkin building guy’s campus London SE1 1uL

Tel: +44 (0)20 7848 6501 Fax: +44 (0)20 7848 6510 Email: guysadmissions@kcl.ac.uk

graduateAcademic centre King’s college London 2nd floor, Henriette Raphael Building guy’s campus London SE1 1uL

Tel: +44 (0)20 7848 6705 Fax: +44 (0)20 7848 6730 Email: ian.sanderson@kcl.ac.uk

FLorENcE NIgHTINgALE ScHooL oF NurSINg & mIdwIFEryKing’s college London James clerk maxwell building waterloo campus 57 waterloo road London SE1 8wA

undergraduateTel: +44 (0)20 7848 4698 Fax: +44 (0)20 7848 3680 Email: nightingale@kcl.ac.uk

graduateTel: +44(0)20 7848 3571 Fax: +44(0)20 7848 3680 Email: postgrad-nm@kcl.ac.uk

INSTITuTE oF pSycHIATryKing’s college London Education Support Team de crespigny park London SE5 8AF

Tel: +44 (0)20 7848 0335 Fax: +44 (0)20 7848 0620 Email: educationsupport@iop.kl.ac.uk

Contact details

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cENTrE For ArTS & ScIENcES AdmISSIoNSKing’s college London Strand campus London wc2r 2LS

ScHooL oF ArTS & HumANITIES

undergraduateTel: +44 (0)20 7848 2350/2374 Email: hums-admissions@kcl.ac.uk

graduateTel: +44 (0)20 7848 2765/1592 Email: hums-admissions@kcl.ac.uk

ScHooL oF LAw

undergraduateTel: +44 (0)20 7848 2503 Email: enq.uglaw@kcl.ac.uk

graduateTel: +44 (0)20 7848 2097 Email: enq.pglaw@kcl.ac.uk

ScHooL oF pHySIcAL ScIENcES & ENgINEErINg

undergraduateTel: +44 (0)20 7848 2271 Email: pse-ugadmissions@kcl.ac.uk

graduateTel: +44 (0)20 7848 2574/2555 Email: pse-pgadmissions@kcl.ac.uk

ScHooL oF SocIAL ScIENcE & pubLIc poLIcy

undergraduateTel: +44 (0)20 7848 1403 Email: sspp-ugadmissions@kcl.ac.uk

graduateTel: +44 (0)20 7848 1977/1434 Email: sspp-graduateadmissions@kcl.ac.uk

ArTS & ScIENcES ASSESSmENT ANd rEcordS cENTrEKing’s college London Strand campus London wc2r 2LS

Other key contacts

INTErNATIoNAL mArKETINg TEAmKing’s college London James clerk maxwell building 57 waterloo road London SE1 8wA

Tel: +44 (0)20 7848 3388 Fax: +44 (0)20 7848 4261 Email: international@kcl.ac.uk www.kcl.ac.uk/international

THE compASSmacadam building Strand campus Surrey Street London wc2r 2NS

Tel: + 44 (0)20 7848 7070 Fax: +44 (0)20 7848 7071 Email: thecompass@kcl.ac.uk www.kcl.ac.uk/thecompass

For general international student enquiries

cArEErS SErvIcEKing’s college London James clerk maxwell building 57 waterloo road London SE1 8wA

Tel: +44 (0)20 7848 4053 Fax: +44 (0)20 7848 4054 Email: careers@kcl.ac.uk www.kcl.ac.uk/careers

Contact details

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KINg’S coLLEgE LoNdoN STudENTS’ uNIoN (KcLSu)macadam building Surrey Street London wc2r 2NS

020 7848 1588 enquiries@kclsu.org www.kclsu.org

crEdIT coNTroL oFFIcE(Fee payment)

King’s college London room 6.20, James clerk maxwell building 57 waterloo road London SE1 8wA

Tel: +44 (0)20 848 3290/3372 Email: credit.control@kcl.ac.uk www.kcl.ac.uk/finance

STudy AbroAd oFFIcErTel: +44 (0)20 7848 6579 Email: studyabroad@kcl.ac.uk www.kcl.ac.uk/studyabroad

For incoming Study Abroad and Exchange students

STudENT FuNdINg oFFIcE KINg’S coLLEgE LoNdoNroom 1.19, Franklin-wilkins building 150 Stamford Street London SE1 9NH

Tel: +44 (0)20 7848 4362/4363/4471/4472 Fax: +44 (0)20 7848 4366 Email: funding@kcl.ac.uk www.kcl.ac.uk/funding

AccommodATIoN

King’s Accommodation ServicesKing’s college London Strand campus Strand, London wc2r 2LS

Tel: +44 (0)20 7848 2759 Fax: +44 (0)20 7848 2724 www.kcl.ac.uk/accomm

King’s conference & Timetabling ServicesKing’s college London 3rd floor, Strand Bridge House Strand campus 138-142 Strand London wc2r 1HH

Tel: +44 (0)20 7848 1700 Fax: +44 (0)20 7848 1717 Email: stopover@kcl.ac.uk www.kcl.ac.uk/kcvb

For vacation accommodation

university of London Housing Servicesprivate Housing unit 4th floor ULU Building malet Street London wc1E 7Hy

Tel: +44 (0)20 7862 8880 Fax: +44 (0)20 7862 8084 Email: housing@lon.ac.uk www.housing.lon.ac.uk

ENgLISH LANguAgE cENTrE King’s college London 26-29 drury Lane London wc2b 5rL

Tel: +44 (0)20 7848 1600 Fax: +44 (0)20 7848 1601 Email: elc@kcl.ac.uk www.kcl.ac.uk/elc

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KINg’S STudENT AdvIcE & INTErNATIoNAL STudENT SupporT

Strand campusLaura bracking, Student Adviser The counselling, welfare & Health centre 3rd Floor macadam building Strand London wc2r 2LS

Tel: +44 (0)20 7848 2530 Fax: +44 (0)20 7848 2754 Email: welfare@kcl.ac.uk www.kcl.ac.uk/welfare

waterloo campusLiz Holdsworth, Student Adviser polly mackwood, International Student Adviser gF001/1A, Franklin-wilkins building waterloo bridge wing 150 Stamford Street London SE1 9NN

Tel: +44 (0)20 7848 4028/4026 Fax: +44 (0)20 7848 4030 Email: welfare@kcl.ac.uk www.kcl.ac.uk/welfare

guy’s campuspaul cornell, Senior Student Adviser gretta gavin, Student Adviser room g.05, ground Floor Henriette raphael building St Thomas’ Street London SE1 1uL

Tel: +44 (0)20 7848 6858/6860 Fax: +44 (0)20 7848 6859 Email: welfare@kcl.ac.uk www.kcl.ac.uk/welfare

denmark Hill campusbecky cooper, Student Adviser Education Support Team w2.04 main building Institute of psychiatry London SE5 8AF

Tel: +44 (0)20 7848 0237 Fax: +44 (0)20 7848 6859 Email: welfare@kcl.ac.uk www.kcl.ac.uk/welfare

EQuALITy & dIvErSITy dEpArTmENTKing’s college London room 7.36, James clerk maxwell building 57 waterloo road London SE1 8wA

Tel: +44 (0)20 7848 3398 Fax: +44 (0)20 7848 3490 Email: equality@kcl.ac.uk www.kcl.ac.uk/equal-opps

THE oFFIcE oF THE dEANKing’s college London King’s building Strand London wc2r 2LS

Tel: +44 (0)20 7848 2333 Fax: +44 (0)20 7848 2344 Email: dean@kcl.ac.uk

ImmIgrATIoN & govErNmENT dEpArTmENTS

uK visasForeign & Commonwealth Office King charles Street London Sw1A 2AH

Tel: +44 (0)20 7008 8438 www.ukvisas.gov.uk

For general information on visas.

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Joint council for the welfare of Immigrants (JcwI)115 old Street London Ec1v 9rT

Tel: +44 (0)20 7251 8708 Email: info@jcwi.org.uk www.jcwi.org.uk

For advice on immigration and nationality problems.

Immigration Advisory Service (IAS)3rd Floor, county House 190 great dover Street London SE1 4yb

Tel: +44 (0)20 7967 1200 or +44 (0)20 7378 9191 outside office hours www.iasuk.org

For urgent advice if you are refused entry into the UK on arrival at a port of entry.

Home Office Public Enquiry OfficeInitial consideration unit (border & Immigration Agency) Lunar House, 40 wellesley road croydon cr9 2by

Tel: +44 (0)870 606 7766 www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk

For an application form please call +44 (0)870 241 0645 or download from the Border & Immigration Agency website.

Overseas Visitors Records Office (metropolitan police)ground Floor, brandon House 180 borough High Street London SE1 1LH

Tel: +44 (0)20 7230 1208/1286

Registration with the police is required for some international students.

gENErAL AdvIcE & INFormATIoN

The british councilTel: +44 (0)161 957 7755 Email: general.enquiries@britishcouncil.org www.britishcouncil.org

uKcISA: uK council for International Student Affairs9-17 St Albans place Islington London N1 0Nx

Tel: +44 (0)20 7288 4330 Student Advice Line: +44 (0)20 7107 9922 www.ukcisa.org.uk

Offers information and advice to all international students.

International Students House (ISH)229 great portland Street London w1w 5pN

Tel: +44 (0)20 7631 8300 www.ish.org.uk

Provides accommodation and a social club for UK and international students and has nursery facilities for residents’ children.

ThiS Welcome Guide iS AvAilABle in AlTernATive formATS

contact the marketing department, King’s college London, tel 020 7848 3997

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1 Lord’s cricket ground

2 university of London union

3 university Library

4 british museum

5 barbican centre

6 St paul’s cathedral

7 Tower of London & Tower bridge

8 covent garden

9 marble Arch

10 National gallery & Trafalgar Square

11 South bank complex

12 buckingham palace

13 Lambeth walk

14 museums

15 Tate modern

16 Houses of parliament

17 westminster Abbey

18 Tate gallery

19 royal courts of Justice

20 London Eye

Useful maps

London T

ransport Underground M

ap

www.kcl.ac.uk

Main College addressKing’s College LondonStrandLondon WC2R 2LSUnited KingdomTel +44 (0)20 7836 5454