Living in UK

Traveling by train

Train stations can be found all over the from the largest cities to the smallest villages. Trains that travel between cities ('Intercity' trains) usually have a buffet carriage or food and drinks trolley, depending on the length of the journey. Trains running along local routes do not always offer food or drink services, so you may wish to take your own with you.

The price of a ticket depends on the type you buy. There are many different types of tickets available, including single, same-day return and open return, which enables you to buy a ticket without having to commit to what date and time you will return on. Buying tickets in advance generally saves you money, as does specifying the date and time that you will travel. Please ensure you buy a ticket for your entire journey, as ticket inspectors impose immediate fines if your ticket is not valid.

Tickets can be bought in advance online at www.thetrainline.com or you can purchase your tickets at any train station, either on or before your date of travel. It is always worth trying to plan your travel and reserve a seat on your train journey. At peak times if you do not reserve a seat you may have to stand for all or part of your journey.

If you plan to do a lot of traveling it is worth investing in a Young Person's Railcard (YPR) which costs £20 a year and enables anyone aged between 16 and 25 (and mature full-time students of any age) to get a third off most rail fares anywhere in Britain. You will need a passport sized photograph for your application. Cards can be purchased at any railway station or you can apply online at www.youngpersons-railcard.co.uk

The network of train services in the is extensive and well used, ranging from local lines to fast intercity routes. (�Intercity� trains travel between major towns and cities.) On a very long journey, you can sometimes get a place in a �sleeper� � a compartment where you can lie down and sleep. You can even take your car on some trains, using a service called Motorail.

Fares

Fares depend on when you travel, where you go, and how far in advance you book your ticket. The most expensive fares are for last-minute bookings traveling during weekday peak hours (mainly business commuting hours). Here is an overview.

Bookings

You can book rail tickets:

Train Company Booking Lines

Arriva Trains 0870 900 0773
c2c 0845 744 4422
Central Trains 0870 609 6060
Chiltern Railways 0845 600 5165
Eurostar 0870 518 6186
First Great Western 0845 700 0125
First Great Western Link 0845 730 0700
First Scot Rail 0845 755 0033
Great North Eastern Railway 0845 722 5225
Midland Mainline 0845 712 5678
Northern 0845 600 1159
One 0845 600 7245
Silverlink Trains 0870 512 5240
Southern 0870 830 6000 (no telesales)
South West Trains 0845 600 0650
Thameslink Rail 0845 330 6333
Virgin Trains 0845 722 2333
Trains 0870 900 2320
Great Northern 0870 850 8822

Catching a coach

The network of coach services is even more extensive than the rail network, reaching many small and remote places. There are many different coach operators. Some specialise in a particular route and others serve wider areas. National Express is a major coach company that operates throughout the . (For journeys entirely within , Scottish Citylink operates in place of National Express.)

In smaller towns and villages, coaches stop by the side of the road to pick up and drop off passengers, but larger towns and cities have coach stations. In , most coaches arrive at and depart from Victoria Coach Station, which is about ten minutes' walk from railway station. You can buy tickets for your journey here and find out about the various coach services.

The London Underground

Here is a beginner�s guide to �the tube�, one of the easiest ways to get around .

Learning your lines

There are 12 different lines, each with its own name (e.g. the Piccadilly line, the Circle line). Each line is a different colour on the map of the Underground system. You can find the map in the ticket hall at each Underground station, and usually on the platforms as well. Sections of the map are also displayed in the carriages of the Underground trains.

Planning your route

Before you begin, it helps to know which line you are starting on and on which line your destination can be found. If they are on different lines, look at the map to see where the two lines cross, and note the name of the station where they meet - that is where you have to change trains. (If the two lines do not cross, keep looking until you find a third line that crosses both of the other two. Then you will need to change trains twice.)

Buying a ticket

You can buy a ticket from one of the automatic machines or from the ticket office. Either way, you need to know the name of the station you are going to. You also need to know whether you want a �single� ticket (valid just to get you to your destination) or a �return� (to get you there and back again).

Fares are based on a zone system: the more zones you travel through, the more expensive your fare is. (Some of the Underground maps show which stations are in which zones.) A single ticket for travel through all six zones currently costs £4.00.

Depending how far you are traveling and how many journeys you need to make, it may be cheaper to buy a one-day Travelcard, which gives you unlimited travel on all London Underground and bus services the day you buy it. A one-day Travelcard covering all six zones, after on weekdays, and all day on Saturdays and Sundays, currently costs £6.80.

If you plan to travel regularly on the same route it will be cheaper for you to buy a weekly or a monthly season ticket. In you can also buy an Oyster Smartcard. You can put your Travelcard and season ticket on it, add travel value (cash) to pay as you go, or have a combination of both. (See www.tfl.gov.uk/oystercard)

Entering the system

At most stations you must pass through an automatic gate. Put your ticket into the slot (to the right of the gate). When the gate opens, pass through. As you pass through, your ticket will pop up from another slot on the top.
Pull your ticket out of the slot and take it with you; you need it at the end of your journey. If you have baggage with you, you can go through a special gate where you can pass your baggage through more easily. Show your ticket to an attendant and ask him or her to let you through this gate.

Most stations have long escalators leading to and from the trains. Try to stand to the right-hand side, leaving space for people to walk past you on the left.

Changing trains

Get off at the station where the line you are on crosses the line you need. Follow the signs for the line you need, and the direction you want to go in.

Leaving the system

At most stations, you must pass through an automatic gate again to leave the station. Put your ticket in the slot as before. If you bought a return ticket or a Travelcard, your ticket will pop up for you to collect again, so that you can use it later. If you bought a single (or if you are on the return trip of your return ticket), your ticket will stay in the machine.

Taxis

Cars and motorcycles

Before driving any vehicle (car, motorbike, van etc) in the United Kingdom (England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland), you should check that you meet all of the legal requirements which apply (a) to the driver and (b) to the vehicle; and that you are aware of the correct procedures, which may be very different from your home country.

Detailed information about all aspects of driving in , and () can be found on the website of the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) atwww.dvla.gov.uk

For specific information about driving in see the Driver and Vehicle Licensing section at the Driver and Vehicle Agency website at www.dvani.gov.uk

Important Legal Requirements

Driving in the UK on your existing driving license

If you have a driving licence issued by a country which is in the European Economic Area (EEA) (The European Economic Area is composed of all the countries of the European Union (EU), namely Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Republic of Cyprus, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovenia, Slovakia, Spain, Sweden, United Kingdom PLUS Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein).If you hold a valid driving licence from one of the above countries and you are visiting the , you can drive for as long as your licence remains valid. Alternatively, you can apply at any time to exchange your licence for a British one. If you wish to continue driving in the after your EEA licence expires, a British driving licence must be obtained.

The information leaflet INF38 'Driving in Great Britain (GB) as a visitor or a new resident', explains the current rules affecting foreign driving licence holders who visit or come to live in .

For driving in , see the website of the Driver and at www.dvani.gov.uk

If you do not do this you must stop driving although you may apply to exchange your licence at any time within 5 years of becoming resident.For information on exchanging your licence for a GB For Northern Ireland, see www.dvlni.gov.uk/drivers/exchange_licence.htm
(b) If you hold a licence issued in , or the For information on driving in GB on a licence issued in Jersey, Guernsey or the Isle of Man For Northern Ireland, see www.dvlni.gov.uk/drivers/jersery_guernsey.htm
(c) If you hold a licence issued in any other countryStudents who hold a non-Community licence or an International Driving Permit may drive here for up to 12 months.

They will be able to take a test and obtain a full licence once they have been in GB for 6 months.You can drive any category of small vehicle shown on your licence for up to 12 months from the time you became resident. To ensure continuous driving entitlement a provisional GB or licence must have been obtained and a driving test passed before the 12-month period elapses.

If you obtain a provisional licence during this period, you are not subject to provisional licence conditions e.g. displaying `L' plates or being supervised by a qualified driver or being precluded from motorways. However, if you do not pass a test within the 12- month concessionary period you will not be allowed to drive as a full licence holder and provisional licence conditions will apply.

If you do not apply for a provisional licence within the first 12 months you must stop driving and obtain a British provisional licence with a view to passing a driving test. Provisional licence conditions will then apply.

Mopeds and Motocycles

Even if you have a licence for driving a car, you might still need to complete a Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) course before riding a moped or a motorcycle in the . On successful completion of the course you will get a training certificate (DL196) which is valid for two years. You will need to show your certificate to the examiner when you take your practical test.

If you have any queries about CBT phone the Driving Standards Agency on 0300 200 1122 and ask for the CBT Section or see 'Learning to Drive or Ride' at www.direct.gov.uk/en/Motoring/LearnerAndNewDrivers/LearningToDriveOrRide/index.htm
For more information on �Driving on licences from all other countries, and students on a foreign licence� see www.direct.gov.uk/en/Motoring/DriverLicensing/DrivingInGbOnAForeignLicence/DG_4022561 . See also the following DVLA leaflets:

which are available in Post Offices or from the DVLA online leaflets Note: it is a criminal offence to drive using a licence that is not valid in the . In addition, if you do so, your car insurance will be invalidated and you will be committing a further criminal offence of 'driving without valid motor insurance'.

Learning to drive in the UK

If you wish to drive a car in the but do not currently hold a valid licence to do so, you will need to apply for a provisional licence and take a driving test in order to obtain a full licence.

Driving licences are issued by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) in , and and in by the Driver and Vehicle Agency Northern Ireland.

In , those who do not hold a licence must have been studying there for at least 6 months prior to taking a driving test or applying for a full licence. For more information see www.dvlni.gov.uk/drivers/ foreign_student.htm. In the rest of the (that is, , and ), if you want to take a GB driving test you must be normally resident in . However, if you have moved to GB having recently been permanently resident in another state of the EU/EEA, you must have been normally resident in GB for 185 days in the 12 months prior to your application for a driving test and a full licence.

A provisional licence requires you to display red and white 'L'-plates (�D� plates in Wales) at the front and back of the vehicle and to be accompanied by another person in the passenger seat when you drive who (a) is over 21 years old, and (b) has passed their driving test and held a valid licence for at least 3 years.You are not allowed to drive on a motorway if you hold a provisional licence.
See www.direct.gov.uk/en/Motoring/LearnerAndNewDrivers/index.htm.
There are many driving-schools in the where you can pay for lessons with a qualified instructor. Details of instructors in your local area can be found in the Yellow Pages directory at www.yell.com or www.driving-schools.co.uk or www.thephonebook.bt.com/publisha.content/en/index.publisha .

Insurance

The law in requires all motorists to have valid insurance that provides them or anyone they permit to use the vehicle with insurance cover for the vehicle that they are driving. It is an offence to drive a vehicle on the road or in a public place without insurance, and penalties can be severe if you do not have insurance. There are 3 different types of insurance policies:

If you have a vehicle in the (see section �Buying a car in the �, below), it is your responsibility to arrange insurance cover.

If borrowing a friend�s car or other vehicle, always check that they have insurance which allows you to drive it. Some car-owners have insurance which allows anyone with a valid driving licence to use their vehicle; but many have insurance which covers the vehicle owner or certain named drivers only.

If the car you are going to drive does not belong to you, then even if there is an insurance policy in force, it may not cover you to drive unless you are a named driver or it is an 'any driver' policy. However, even 'any driver' policies may not cover learner drivers, or people driving on foreign licences.
It is the driver's responsibility to make sure that she or he is insured to drive. It is no defence to say that you believed (wrongly) that you were insured. Always check before driving.

For more information on arranging insurance for your vehicle, see the section below on �Buying a car in the'.

If hiring/renting a car, you will need to show a valid current driving licence. Insurance and road tax are normally provided by the rental company and included in the hire charge.

Before driving in the , you should check that all of these legal requirements have been met, as driving without insurance (or a valid driving licence, or road tax) is unlawful and can cause legal problems if you come to the attention of the police. Indeed, breaking the law by driving without the correct valid documents can lead to you being fined and banned from driving, and further offences can result in you being sent to prison.

On the road

In addition to having current valid road tax, insurance and driving-licence:

Further information about what you can drive and your legal obligations as a driver can be found on the DVLA website at www.dvla.gov.uk/drivers.aspx . Essential reading for anyone planning to drive in the UK is The Highway Code, both in terms of road safety and because many of its rules are in fact legal requirements. The Highway Code costs around £2.50 and can be bought from bookshops or on-line at www.tsoshop.co.uk which also contains a �Test Yourself� section.

Legal requirements

All motor vehicles in the must be registered, taxed and insured. If the car is more than 3 years old, the car must be checked and a Certificate of Roadworthiness, known as an MoT Test, obtained every year before the expiry of the last MoT, which is valid for 12 months.

Registration

If you buy a brand-new car in the , the dealer will usually arrange for the car to be registered for you. You will need to provide documentary proof of your name and address. You must make sure that the details shown on your Registration Document/Certificate are correct.

If the dealer does not register the car for you, make sure that they give you the appropriate application form so that you can apply yourself.If you are thinking of buying a used (�second-hand�) car or other vehicle in the , we strongly recommend that you read the helpful information on buying and selling a vehicle.

One of the most important aspects of buying a used vehicle is to check that it is indeed the property of the seller. Before buying a vehicle you should satisfy yourself that the seller either owns the vehicle, or is entitled to offer it for sale. Ask to see the bill of sale in the seller�s name or other evidence such as a hire purchase discharge document; and always ask for a receipt of purchase on completion of the deal.

If you are buying privately, you should view the vehicle at the address on the registration certificate V5C. You should check that the vehicle identification number (VIN) printed on the registration certificate V5C corresponds with the VIN on the vehicle (usually found on a plate in the engine compartment). If the vehicle is not registered in the seller�s name, ask why. Never purchase a vehicle unless it has a registration certificate.

You may wish to make a check through the DVLA�S Vehicle Check Service (VCS) either online or by telephone. The VCS has been introduced to help reduce car crime. It is intended to deter criminals from disguising stolen cars with the identity of written off ones (that is, vehicles which have been badly damaged in an accident and which have been written off by an insurance company).
The telephone service calls are charged at 49p per minute. The telephone number is 0906 185 85 85 and the service operates Monday to Friday between and , and Saturday between and .

Buying and owning a car

If you own a car in the , you must do all of the following:

For , the number is 0845 402 4000 and the line is open Monday-Friday 0900-1700hrs ( time); and there is useful advice on buying a used vehicle

Note: if you buy a vehicle which is later identified as having been stolen, you may have no right in law to its ownership and you could lose both the vehicle and the money you paid for it. For more details, see the DVLA website (link above).

When you have bought the vehicle, you will need to register it in your name. If you wish to bring your vehicle with you from your home country, then we recommend that you read the information on www.direct.gov.uk/en/Motoring/BuyingAndSellingAVehicle/ImportingAndExportingAVehicle/index.htm

For , see the DVLNI website For more information on Vehicle Registrationor for Northern Ireland

Road Tax

You must ensure that road tax for your car is paid before you drive it. You can obtain a tax disc by completing an application form (V10) that is available from any Post Office and online at www.taxdisc.direct.gov.uk/EvlPortalApp/ .You will need to take the completed form together with the following documents to a Post Office that issues tax discs:

Insurance cover

The cost of motor insurance cover will vary according to a number of factors such as your age, how long you have been driving, where you are living, the age and value of your car and the type of car you have. Costs may vary widely between insurance companies for the same cover, so you may want to shop around.

Motoring organisations

There are a number of motoring organisations in the that offer a range of services to the motorist, including breakdown assistance and recovery, insurance and route planning. They tend to charge a membership fee and make additional charges for the particular services you may wish to buy.

You may find that NUS (National Union of Students) members get special rates from some motoring organisations. Examples of motoring organisations: www.rac.co.uk or www.theaa.com or www.greenflag.com

EEA drivers

If you have a full licence issued by an EEA country, you can use your national licence the whole time you are in the , as long as it remains valid. (If your EEA licence expires while you are in the and you want to continue to drive here, you need to get a licence.) The countries of the EEA are , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , the , , , , , , , and the .

The rules are slightly different in the following circumstances:

If you fall into either of these categories, contact the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency for advice, or read the UKCOSA Guidance Note: Driving in : a guide for international

Drivers from specified countries

This section applies to you if your driving licence is from: , , , , , , , , , , , , or . If you have a licence from one of the countries listed above, and you are in the for at least one year, you can drive small vehicles (e.g. cars, motorcycles, vans to 3.5 tonnes) for 12 months from the day you arrive in the . If you want to continue driving after the 12 month period, you must get a driving licence before the 12 months are up.

To start the process of exchanging your licence for a licence, go to any post office and pick up form D1. Fill in the form and follow the instructions on it. There is a charge for obtaining a licence; details are included on the form.

All other drivers

This section applies to you if any country other than those listed in the two sections above issued your driving licence.

Further information

Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA), Customer Enquiries (Drivers) Unit,
DVLC, SA6 7JL, telephone +44 (0)870 240 0009, fax +44 (0)1792
783071, www.dvla.gov.uk

Services for drivers

If you plan to buy your own car to use in the , consider joining one of the motoring organisations. For an annual fee, these organisations offer:

Bicycle basics

Bicycles are a great way to get around at no cost, with the added benefit of helping you to keep fit. Many cities have bicycle lanes on major roads, so that you don't have to cycle alongside other traffic.

Wearing a bicycle helmet is not compulsory in the , but you are strongly advised for your own safety and well being. Wearing reflective clothing and using lights if cycling at night is also recommended, as is using a strong bike lock. Some local authorities or police stations offer road safety courses for cyclists. Your Students' Union may be able to give you details of courses in your area.

Further information

For information about the National Cycle Network Centre, contact Sustrans, 2 Cathedral Square, College Green, Bristol BS1 5DD, telephone +44 (0)117 926 8893, fax +44 (0) 117 929 4173, www.sustrans.org

Bicycling tips

If you want to use a bicycle while you are in the , it is a good idea to take a �familiarisation� course if there is one available. The local police or the local authority sometimes offer these courses, and they can teach you how to ride a bicycle safely while you are here. Top safety tips include:

Keeping Healthy

Try to get some exercise several times a week. Most colleges and universities in the offer lots of opportunities to practice your favorite sport or learn a new one. If you do not like sports, try an exercise class, go dancing, or go for a long walk.
If you come from the tropics and arrive, as many do in the autumn , you will experience short day length and low light levels - quite different from your normal environment. The best you can do is to be aware that this is a problem. Indeed, some long-term residents of the find the low winter light levels a problem. Getting out into the daylight for exercise as much as possible will be beneficial.

Coping with minor problems:

Traveling to a new country with a different climate and different foods can cause small health upsets. You may develop minor illnesses such as coughs and colds. If you have not had these symptoms before, they may seem worrying at first, but do not be alarmed - these problems are usually easy to treat. Make an appointment to see your doctor, and remember to explain any changes in your lifestyle that might be affecting your health.
Eating the right food, and enough of it, is vital for keeping warm and healthy. If you are living in a catered hall of residence you will probably be given a balanced diet, but you should still be careful to make sure that you eat enough fresh fruit and vegetables.

If you have special dietary requirements (for example, for religious or cultural reasons) make sure the catering authorities know about them.
If you are cooking for yourself, eating healthily can be more difficult, especially if preparing your own meals is new to you. Most big towns have stores or areas where you can buy food from different parts of the world, so you may be able to find food that is familiar.
A healthy diet is one which includes elements from all the main food groups (protein, fat, carbohydrate, vitamins and minerals). You should try to eat something from each of the following groups every day:

Health Care Checklist

Checklist:

Health Care Checklist

Checklist:

Activities on campus

As a student in the , you will find a range of services and facilities at your disposal. In addition to academic facilities such as libraries and laboratories, most universities and many colleges provide recreational facilities for their students, such as inexpensive restaurants or cafes, pubs, lounges, athletics facilities, and shops where you can buy basic necessities.

Student life can be as active or as quiet as you like. There is a huge range of activities to choose from, beginning almost the moment you arrive. Many colleges and universities provide an orientation programme for new international students in the week before term begins.

This is your chance to get to know the campus, find out about essential services and meet other international students. Then, in the first week of term, many institutions stage a 'Freshers' fair': a programme of social events for new students. ('Freshers' are students in their first year of an undergraduate or a college programme.) During the fair, you will have further opportunities to meet other students at receptions and dances and you will have a chance to find out about the various clubs and societies you can join.

Student clubs and societies in the reflect a wide range of interests, and may centre around anything from a particular sport, political party or language to a specific computer game, television programme or musical group. Many colleges and universities have an international students' society which provides activities and support for students from outside the .

Shopping

Shopping facilities in the are many and varied. Here is an overview of some of the most popular shops, but there are also many good local shops that are not part of national or international chains.

Food Shopping

Shoe Shopping:

Major chains include: Clarks, Shoe Express and large department stores.

Typical opening hours: Monday to Saturday from to 5.30 or 6.00 p.m. Some shops open Sundays as well, especially in major cities and shopping centers. Many have 'late opening' on one or two days a week, staying open until about 9.00 p.m. and in provincial towns there may be an early closing day mid-week when the shops will close after lunch.

Shopping tips: Watch for major sales in January and summer

High street chemists/pharmacies

Major chains include :Boots, Superdrug

Typical opening hours: hours are as for supermarkets or department stores, but chemists' shops take turns staying open outside normal hours, to provide emergency supplies if needed.

Shopping tips

They sell medicines, contraceptives and a wide range of personal-care products such as soap, shampoo, toothpaste and toothbrushes, hair-styling products, cosmetics, perfume, shaving cream and razors, tissues, etc.

Street markets

Many towns and cities have street markets where you can buy a wide range of goods from individual stands. Markets can be a good source of fresh foods, and many offer particularly good prices for household goods, shoes and clothing. Opening hours: Variable. Some are open Monday to Friday or Monday to Saturday from about to ; others may be set up on one weekday 'market day' only; others operate on weekends or only on Sundays.

Charity shops

In every town and city there are charity shops that sell good-quality, second-hand items ranging from shoes and clothing through to books and household goods. Items for sale are always clean and serviceable and are exceptionally well priced. For instance a warm winter coat may cost as little as £5.00 and second-hand books 10p. Look for Cancer Research ; Oxfam; British Heart Foundation; and Help the Aged.

When buying from a website based in the , look for evidence that the organization is registered under the Data Protection Act. Organizations that are registered under the Act must follow strict rules about how they handle the information you give them.
Look for other evidence that the site meets independent standards of integrity and security. For example, the British Consumers' Association has established a Web Trader Code of Practice. Companies that meet the standards set out in the Code can display a special Which? icon on their sites. Other organizations have established security standards for online payments. Before placing your order, read any information you can find on the site about security and privacy issues.

When filling out the online order form, look for your web browser's security icon. On most browsers, this will appear in the bottom left corner. On newer browsers the icon is a solid gold padlock, and on older ones it is a solid key. If you don't see the icon, or if it appears as a broken image or with a solid line over it, the site may not be secure and your personal information may be vulnerable to theft. To be extra safe, buy from companies that also have retail premises - actual shops that you can visit if you have any problems.

Your rights as a consumer

A 'consumer' is someone who buys goods or services. As a consumer in the , you have the right to return any faulty goods to the shop where you bought them, and the shop must give you either a replacement or a refund. You have to take the goods back within the guarantee period after you bought them, and you usually have to provide 'proof of purchase' (that is, the sales receipt from the shop). If you think a shop has treated you unfairly, the local Office of Fair Trading can help - check the local telephone directory ( www.yell.com ) to find the one nearest to you.

Pubs and bars

Pubs and bars are an important part of social life in the . Most of them have an informal, comfortable atmosphere, and going to the pub is an easy way to get together with friends

Bars:

Bars may offer a wide range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, or they may specialize and offer mostly wines or cocktails (mixed drinks). Some also offer meals or light snacks.

Opening hours: The standard legal opening hours for pubs and bars used to be ( on Sundays). However, in 2005, a new law was passed enabling pubs and bars to apply for a 'late license' to stay open longer. While some pubs and bars did apply for such a license others decided to keep their old opening hours. Check with the pubs in your area for their opening times. Please note that not all pubs and bars will be open throughout the day. Some pubs close for a while during the day, especially in rural areas.

Age limits: The legal drinking age in the is 18. Children are not allowed inside pubs and bars, except where there is a special family room, a separate dining-room or a garden area.

Cheap rates

There are also reduced rates on Saturday and Sunday.

Libraries

Your college or university will have its own library, but the local public library can be a useful resource as well. You can:

You can walk into a public library and study or read any books without restriction, but if you want to borrow any of the materials or use the computer terminals, you will have to join. Joining is free - all you have to do is complete a form and provide proof of your address (e.g. a letter from your institution or a utility bill that displays your accommodation address).

Culture Shock

Leaving home and traveling to study in a new country can be a stressful experience. Even though it may be something you have planned and prepared for, the extent of the change and the effects it has on you may take you by surprise. If you find that you are surprised by the effects of the change, it might be helpful to realize that your experience is quite normal.
This applies whatever country you come from, and wherever you are going to study, even though some cultures are more similar than others because of geographic, historic, demographic and other connections.

"Culture shock" describes the impact of moving from a familiar culture to one which is unfamiliar. It is an experience described by people who have traveled abroad to work, live or study; it can be felt to a certain extent even when abroad on holiday. It can affect anyone, including international students. It includes the shock of a new environment, meeting lots of new people and learning the ways of a different country.

It also includes the shock of being separated from the important people in your life, maybe family, friends, colleagues, teachers: people you would normally talk to at times of uncertainty, people who give you support and guidance. When familiar sights, sounds, smells or tastes are no longer there you can miss them very much. If you are tired and jet-lagged when you arrive small things can be upsetting and out of all proportion to their real significance.

The following are some of the elements that contribute to culture shock:

Climate

Many students find that the British climate affects them a lot. You may be used to a much warmer climate, or you may just find the greyness and dampness, especially during the winter months, difficult to get used to.

Food

You may find British food strange. It may taste different, or be cooked differently, or it may seem bland or heavy compared to what you are used to. If you are in self catering accommodation and unused to cooking for yourself, you may find yourself relying on "fast" food instead of your usual diet. Try to find a supplier of familiar food, and eat plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables.

Language

Constantly listening and speaking in a foreign language is tiring. If English is not your first language, you may find that you miss your familiar language which at home would have been part of your everyday environment. Even if you are a fluent English speaker it is possible that the regional accents you discover when you arrive in the will make the language harder to understand. People may also speak quickly and you may feel embarrassed to ask them to repeat what they have said.

Dress

If you come from a warm climate, you may find it uncomfortable to wear heavy winter clothing. Not all students will find the British style of dress different but, for some, it may seem immodest, unattractive, comical or simply drab.

Social roles

Social behaviors may confuse, surprise or offend you. For example you may find people appear cold and distant or always in a hurry. This may be particularly likely in the centre of large cities. Or you may be surprised to see couples holding hands and kissing in public. You may find the relationships between men and women more formal or less formal than you are used to, as well as differences in same sex social contact and relationships

'Rules' of behavior

As well as the obvious things that hit you immediately when you arrive, such as sights, sounds, smells and tastes, every culture has unspoken rules which affect the way people treat each other. These may be less obvious but sooner or later you will probably encounter them and once again the effect may be disorientating. For example there will be differences in the ways people decide what is important, how tasks are allocated and how time is observed. The British generally have a reputation for punctuality.

In business and academic life keeping to time is important. You should always be on time for lectures, classes, and meetings with academic and administrative staff. If you are going to be late for a meeting do try to let whoever you are meeting know. Social life is a little more complicated.

Arranging to meet to see a film at means arriving at . But if you are invited to visit someone's home for dinner at , you should probably aim to arrive at about ten minutes after eight, but not later than about twenty past. When going to a student party an invitation for probably means any time from 9.30 onwards! These subtle differences can be difficult to grasp and can contribute to culture shock.

Values

Although you may first become aware of cultural differences in your physical environment, e.g. food, dress, behavior, you may also come to notice that people from other cultures may have very different views of the world from yours. Cultures are built on deeply-embedded sets of values, norms, assumptions and beliefs. It can be surprising and sometimes distressing to find that people do not share some of your most deeply held ideas, as most of us take our core values and beliefs for granted and assume they are universally held.

As far as possible, try to suspend judgment until you understand how parts of a culture fit together into a coherent whole. Try to see what people say or do in the context of their own culture's norms. This will help you to understand how other people see your behavior, as well as how to understand theirs. When you understand both cultures, you will probably find some aspects of each that you like and others that you don't.

Model of culture shock

The process of culture shock can be illustrated by a model known as the "W" curve (see diagram on the following page). This model may not relate to your experience or only partially. Sometimes the process is faster or slower. Many people go through different phases of the process of adjustment several times, so parts of the curve in the diagram may repeat themselves.

For instance, at significant times such as important family dates or festivals you may feel distressed or lonely, while at other times you feel quite settled. However, many people have reported that this model has reflected something of their experience and they have found it helpful to realize they are not the only ones to have had these feelings. The process can be broken down into 5 stages:

1. The "honeymoon" stage

When you first arrive in a new culture, differences are intriguing and you may feel excited, stimulated and curious. At this stage you are still protected by the close memory of your home culture.

2. The "distress" stagee

A little later, differences create an impact and you may feel confused, isolated or inadequate as cultural differences intrude and familiar supports (eg family or friends) are not immediately available.

3. "Re-integration" stage

Next you may reject the differences you encounter. You may feel angry or frustrated, or hostile to the new culture. At this stage you may be conscious mainly of how much you dislike it compared to home. Don't worry, as this is quite a healthy reaction. You are reconnecting with what you value about yourself and your own culture.

4."Autonomy" stage

Differences and similarities are accepted. You may feel relaxed, confident, more like an old hand as you become more familiar with situations and feel well able to cope with new situations based on your growing experience.

5"Independence" stage

Differences and similarities are valued and important. You may feel full of potential and able to trust yourself in all kinds of situations. Most situations become enjoyable and you are able to make choices according to your preferences and values. Diagram of W-Curve: Stages of adjustment experienced during orientation.

Effects of culture shock

Some of the symptoms of culture shock can be worrying themselves. For example, you may find your health is affected and you may get headaches or stomach aches or you may start worrying about your health more than previously. You may find it difficult to concentrate and as a result find it harder to focus on your course work. Other people find they become more irritable or tearful and generally their emotions seem more changeable. All of these effects can in themselves increase your anxiety.

How to help yourself

Finally...

It is important to stress that culture shock is entirely normal, usually unavoidable and not a sign that you have made a mistake or that you won't manage. In fact there are very positive aspects of culture shock. The experience can be a significant learning experience, making you more aware of aspects of your own culture as well as the new culture you have entered. It will give you valuable skills that will serve you in many ways now and in the future and which will be part of the benefit of an international education.

Resources of Culture Shock

Arrive early

If you can arrange it with your institution, it is worth arriving about a week before most other students do, so that you can settle in before things get busy. Many institutions run special induction programmes for international students (especially undergraduates) in the week before term begins.

A typical induction programme provides a tour of the college or university, an overview of its facilities and how to use them, help with registering for your academic programme, and social events where you can meet other students and staff. This can help you start to get used to your new environment. The British Council has produced an orientation video for students, Next steps, which gives practical advice on adjusting to your new environment.

Talk to a counsellor

The welcomes thousands of international students each year, so universities and colleges often employ professional counselors and international student advisers to help new students adjust. These people have special training in offering advice and support, and they understand the challenges you face. They can listen to you sympathetically, offer practical suggestions, and refer you to other professionals if necessary.

Your personal tutor and the staff in the international office or students' union of your college or university can also be helpful. Some institutions run a 'buddy' or mentoring system - students who have been in the university or college for a longer period give advice to new arrivals, and are available for help and guidance throughout the year. There will be information on schemes such as these in the induction period at the beginning of term, and the students' union or international student association will help you become involved.

Keep in touch with home

Use the telephone, faxes, e-mail and conventional mail to keep in contact with your friends and family at home (see chapter 8, Services and facilities). In larger towns or cities with large international communities, you may be able to find newspapers from your own country, or at least in your own language - your college or university may even have some in its own library. You may also be able to find newspapers and other information from your country on the internet. Depending where you are from, you may also be able to watch satellite television programmes from your country.

Spend time with other people from your country

Many international students find that it helps to make contact with people from a similar background because they understand what you are going through. Spending time with people from your country can also be a relaxing break from the 'strangeness' of the .

You can speak your own language, eat your own foods and talk about what is going on back home. However, remember that speaking your own language all the time will not help to improve your English language skills. Many colleges and universities have a variety of national/cultural societies, as well as an active international students' association - ask your students' union for details.

The students' union or international students' association may also have information about national or cultural groups outside the institution, in the town or city. Of course, it is important to strike a balance between what is familiar and the new experiences and culture available to you.

Keep healthy and active

Make an effort to exercise regularly if you are able to do so. You will feel better and if you join a sports club or society, it can also be a good way to meet people. Eat a balanced diet and find a shop that sells food from your part of the world, so that you can enjoy familiar meals when you want them.

Remember your faith

If you follow a religion and worship regularly at home, you should continue to do so while you are in the UK as this can provide a sense of stability and be a link to your life at home. Every major religion in the world is represented here, and most large cities have Muslim, Hindu, Sikh and Buddhist centers, as well as synagogues and churches of all denominations. Ask your international student adviser, chaplaincy or students' union about finding a place of worship in the local area.

Remind yourself that culture shock is normal - and temporary

How long and how much you are affected by culture shock depends on your background and your reactions. However, do remember, at first, it is natural to go through stages of rejecting all that you find - the food, the clothing, the behavior patterns, the climate, but as time goes on, it is likely that you will gradually re-evaluate all those things and find them more acceptable.

Remind yourself that culture shock is normal - and temporary

How long and how much you are affected by culture shock depends on your background and your reactions. However, do remember, at first, it is natural to go through stages of rejecting all that you find - the food, the clothing, the behavior patterns, the climate, but as time goes on, it is likely that you will gradually re-evaluate all those things and find them more acceptable.

Cultural differences

Drinking

Smoking

Many people in the smoke. However, in some ways, smoking is less acceptable here than drinking. From summer 2007, smoking in the is banned in all public indoor spaces. This includes pubs, wine bars, restaurants, nightclubs, cinemas and public transport. Smoking is already banned in all underground stations, and at certain outdoor locations such as football grounds and railway stations.

You'll still be allowed to 'light up' (slang for smoking) outdoors, in the home, or places considered to be 'homes', such as hotels, unless otherwise signposted (e.g. a sign stating No smoking in hotel bars or restaurant areas).

If you are found to be in breach of no-smoking regulations, you could be fined £50. If in doubt, check for signage or ask someone in authority.

Sexual relationships

In the , sexual relationships are generally a matter of personal choice, and many students at colleges and universities will choose to have sexual relationships. If you come from another culture, this approach may be very different from what you are used to. You are free to choose your own behavior according to your own beliefs, so do not feel pressured.

The legal age of consent for heterosexual and homosexual men and women in the is 16 (17 in ). In large cities you can find clubs, pubs and other meeting places for lesbians and gay men. Individual attitudes toward homosexuality vary widely - some people accept it easily and others may not. Many lesbians and gay men choose to be discreet; others are more open about their sexuality. Before you begin any kind of sexual relationship, make sure you understand how to avoid sexually transmitted diseases

Life and culture

At home in your own country, there are lots of customs, habits and social rules that you probably don't think about because you are so used to them These vary from culture to culture and that is one of the things that makes being in another country so interesting and thought-provoking.

You'll notice differences in the way people dress, greet each other, practice religion, eat, behave in different situations, express their opinions, and even how they treat animals or have expectations of punctuality. It is a good idea to prepare yourself for any cultural differences by reading as much as you can about the before you leave. Try to think about what you'll need to tell others about your own cultural needs too.

Religion

If you follow a religion and worship regularly at home, then you can continue to do so in the . Every major world religion is represented and most cities have Muslim, Hindu, Sikh and Buddhist centers, as well as synagogues and churches of all denominations. Keeping routine with your faith will provide you with a link to your life at home but can also enable you to develop new friendships quickly.

The religious festivals celebrated in the reflect its multi-faith culture.

Christian, Muslim, Hindu, Jewish, Sikh, Buddhist festivals and holidays are all celebrated.

Food

The food you can buy in the reflects the many ethnic influences in British society. Most supermarkets sell ingredients from , , the and , as well as food from many other parts of the world. The British are increasingly healthy eaters and there is a very wide range of organic produce available in shops and supermarkets.
You'll still find the famous English breakfast and Fish and Chips, but you'll also see a very diverse range of meals and menus while you're in the . Families in the often eat a traditional "Sunday roast" on Sundays, but those same families are likely to enjoy new types of meals, anything from Italian pizza to Singapore Noodles.

The British tend to eat three meals a day: breakfast, lunch (this is often quite a small meal) and then an evening meal (often called dinner or supper). Tea is still the traditional British hot drink and is usually taken with milk several times a day.

As in most other European countries, it is acceptable in the to drink alcohol in moderate amounts, and pubs and wine bars form an established part of British social life. All pubs and bars sell non-alcoholic drinks too, so you don't have to drink to enjoy yourself! People also meet to drink tea and coffee, and you'll find a vast range of different coffee shops in every town or city.

While in the it is likely that you will be invited for a meal with friends. It is a good idea to make sure you tell them in advance about the food or drink you cannot consume because of your religion, health or ethical stance. International students tell us how they love to share their own cookery with people from the and other countries and this is also a great way to make new friends.

Making friends

Being a student in the is not just coursework or doing research but relaxing and having some fun too. Students can get discounts on so many cultural experiences and attractions, and wherever you study you'll find places to enjoy with friends or by yourself…concerts, walks in the country, museums, cinemas, up-to-the-minute sports facilities, galleries, cafes and castles, gardens, shops and coastline.

institutions pride themselves on providing great social opportunities for their students, with different societies and groups for a massive range of interests. International students from all over the world tell us about how easily they make new friends from all over the world. Making friends in the will really help you to improve your English too.

Events and celebrations

Aside from all the main religious festivals and holidays in the calendar, there are many traditional festivities that are enjoyed during the year. These include Bonfire Night on 5tth November when you can attend organized firework and bonfire displays. Bonfire Night celebrates the failure of the 1605 attempt by Guy Fawkes to blow up the Houses of Parliament.

Then there is Burns Night - usually held on 25 January - which celebrates the life and works of the Scottish writer Robert Burns and people get together to eat a Burns Supper. In you can join in the tradition of the Eisteddfod, a Welsh celebration of music, literature and performance. Aside from the National Eisteddfod, there are many other Eisteddfodau held across including an International Eisteddfod and the Urdd (or Youth) Eisteddfod. This is one of 's largest and most vibrant youth arts festivals.

Relaxation and inspiration

Coming to the to study is also about finding inspiration and excitement outside your coursework as well as discovering new activities and ways to relax. You can really be yourself by keeping up with your own interests or discovering new ones. The has an amazing cultural scene which will be all around you wherever you choose to study.

The is a really cool place for music of all types. Whether you just listen or dance you'll find pop, rock or classical, folk, jazz or opera, and all sorts of world music. From small clubs, independent cafes and bars to international scale concert halls, rock festivals or gigs, you can listen and dance to lots of live music. Many independent artists and bands play at university or college venues.

Apart from a wealth of clubs and societies on campus or in local communities, you can visit traditional museums, contemporary art spaces and galleries, with collections and exhibitions from all over the world. Sculpture, painting, video and photography are widely available to see in the . The also has an incredibly vibrant theatre and performing arts heritage, maintaining both traditional plays and musicals but encouraging new and alternative productions too.

For something a bit more energetic, the offers an incredible and beautiful landscape for walking, climbing, cycling, mountain-biking and running. The mountains of and , the rolling hills of and , the and the moors, as well as the coastline of all these parts of the will be all around you. Your university, college or school will be able to help you find out about local countryside activities and events.

Many institutions have good state-of-the-art sports facilities, but you can also use local or private leisure centers to keep fit and healthy. As a student in the , there are many opportunities to attend or participate in organized sports activities, or to get involved in charitable events like sponsored walks and runs. You might even try to join the London Marathon!

As a student, you are likely to have the opportunity to join all sorts of activities that can help you settle in, express yourself, relax and have some fun. Debating societies, choirs, drama groups, sailing, volunteering, business societies and meditational it's up to you.

After all that exercise, perhaps you just want to watch a film. The has cinemas in almost every town and city, showing feature films from all over the world. There are also many film festivals in British cities, focusing on themes in film, specific directors or animation, for example.

Personal safety in UK

The is generally a safe place to live. Nevertheless, as in any country, there can be problems in certain areas, so you should take some simple, sensible precautions. Here are ten tips for a safe stay.

1. Make a note of all your credit card and bank card numbers and take a photocopy of your passport, particularly the pages that contain your passport number, photograph and any relevant visa stamps. Keep this in a safe place in your accommodation.

1. Never carry large amounts of cash. Be careful of your handbag, purse or wallet when you are in crowded places, especially airports, stations and crowded streets.

2. If your credit cards, bank cards or passport are stolen, report the theft to the police immediately, and notify your bank. You will need to tell them those numbers that you wrote down in tip 1. You will also need a crime number from the police for any insurance claim or to get a replacement passport.

1. Be vigilant when withdrawing cash from an ATM machine; make sure no one is looking over your shoulder at your PIN number.

1. Female students in particular should avoid dark and lonely streets and subways If you are out at night by yourself, try to keep to busy, well-lit areas. Be cautious about speaking to strangers at night. Ideally you should pre-book a taxi to take you home at night. Be wary of accepting lifts from strangers, however friendly.

1. If anyone does threaten you and demand your money or other valuables, do not resist - give up your money and valuables. Then report the incident to the police as soon as possible.

1. Mobile phone theft is increasing in the . Be very vigilant when using your phone in public. It is possible to security mark the battery and phone with your postcode and street number. Contact Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111 to register your phone

1. If you own or hire a car, never leave it unlocked. In addition, either fit an alarm to the car, or use an extra lock that can be fitted to the steering wheel or gear stick. These locks are not expensive, and you can find them at car accessory shops.

1. Do not leave anything valuable in the car. If you do have to leave anything in the car, put it in the boot, out of sight.

1. Traffic in cities is heavy and drivers can be impatient, so be careful when crossing roads on foot and remember that vehicles drive on the left in the so they will be coming towards you from the right. Use a pedestrian crossing if there is one, and look both ways before you cross.

1. Remember that drugs such as cannabis, cocaine and heroin are illegal in the . Drug sellers and dealers face particularly severe penalties. Avoid getting involved.

1. If you need to call the police for help in an emergency, dial 999 and ask for the police service. The call is free from any telephone - you do not need coins or a phone card. This number is for emergencies only. If you need to contact your local police station at any other time, you should dial the number than can be found in the local telephone directory.

Banking basics

Tips on opening a bank account:

Managing your money

It is worth making a little effort to keep your financial affairs in good shape. Keep your money under control, and you can concentrate on the real business of studying and living in the . Here are two tips for managing your finances.

1. Make full use of banking facilities Once you have opened a bank account, you can ask the bank's financial advisers to help you decide how to manage your money. You can use your bank account (or other account) to pay your regular bills such as electricity, gas and telephone by direct debit or by standing order, on a regular basis.

The financial advisers can help you to organize a budget account to pay regular bills or help you to deal with any periods when you might need an overdraft facility. If you have a financial sponsor, make sure you find out from them exactly when the money will become available to you and how much there will be.

You can also use cheques to pay for goods and services. You may also find that you can use a cash card linked to an account that you have in your own country to draw money from your home account while you are in the . Cards carrying signs such as Cirrus or Maestro may have this facility. Ask your home bank about this before you leave, in order to ensure that you bring the right cards with you.

1. Deal with financial problems promptly Monitor your account in the carefully and make sure you do not overdraw - or, if you have arranged an overdraft, make sure you do not go over the amount you agreed with the bank. If you do run into any money problems, take the initiative and sort them out quickly - do not risk going into debt or falling behind with your rent. Problems may arise, for example, if there is a sudden change in the political situation in your country, if there are unexpected delays in transferring your money, or if your personal circumstances change (e.g. your accommodation arrangements, your marital status).

In these situations, do not be tempted to borrow money. Instead, get advice from a reliable source. Start by meeting with the student counsellor at your college or university. He or she can tell you what to do about paying your tuition fees, and whether there are any college funds or charitable trusts that might be able to help you. If you are building up debts on credit cards or rent arrears, debt counseling may be available at your institution or at a local Citizens Advice Bureau. If the problems are caused by political situations or changes in foreign exchange, ask your Embassy or High Commission for advice.

Insurance

Help with legal matters

The police

Reminder: obey the local laws

Living expenses

The British Council estimates that, not including course fees, the average student needs around £650 a month (£750 a month in London and the south east of England) to cover accommodation, food, clothes and basic needs.
How much or how little you spend outside this is entirely up to you, but make sure you have a good understanding of the costs you are likely to incur and always try to live within your means. If you are allowed to work, a part-time job can be a good way to ensure you have extra spending money for leisure activities and socializing.

Council tax

Council tax is a payment set by local authorities in , and to pay for local services such as rubbish collection, police and the fire brigade. It is based on the value of the house or flat in which you live. University halls of residence and dwellings occupied only by students or by a student's dependent family are usually exempt, but if you live in any other accommodation, such as a shared house or flat in which not all of the residents are students, it is likely that, as a student, you will have to pay at least some council tax.

Your institution may be asked to provide a council tax certificate in order to exempt you from any bills. You may not be exempt from the tax if your course lasts less that one academic year or involves less than 21 hours of study a week. Check out the guidance note on Council tax and international students at www.ukcosa.org.uk.

Staying on to work in the UK

If you do not want to leave the just yet, you might be able to arrange to stay on and work for a while. Working in the can provide you with good experience of real work situations, build your knowledge of industry practice, and lead to future contacts and work opportunities in your own country. There are three possibilities:

1. If you are an EEA national, you can stay and work freely in the .

1. Until now, it has not been easy for a majority of non-EEA students to get permission to stay on in the after their studies for work (apart from training for a professional or specialist qualification or work experience before returning home). This is changing and there are now a number of schemes that may be of relevance such as the 'Fresh Talent: Working in Scotland Scheme' and the 'Science and Engineering Graduate Scheme' (SEGS). For further information about these and other schemes see the UKCOSA Guidance Note 'Working in the after your studies' on www.ukcosa.org.uk and check the Home Office website www.workingintheuk.gov.uk

1. If you are a doctor, dentist or nurse, special arrangements have always applied to your professions, and these will continue.

If you want to stay in the you must make your application before your current permission to be here as a student runs out and usually after you have graduated.

Finding an employer

Return Home

In the months before your course finishes, as well as being busy with your examinations, thesis or dissertation, you will also be thinking about what to do next. Like many students, you might be looking forward to going back to your home country, to your family, friends and colleagues, and to the culture that you know best. Alternatively, you might be planning to do another course of study or to stay in the for work. See our information on Working in the UK after your studies.

These are the big questions, but there are also many practical issues to think about. With all of this, it is important to understand that this is a difficult and stressful time for you. This Information Sheet hopes to help you through this difficult period; and to prepare you for returning to your home culture.

•Going Home

If you are returning to your home country, you should start making the arrangements as early as possible. Remember that in your last months in the UK examinations or finishing other work will take up a large part of your time, so planning for your departure should begin early.

Here are some practical things to think about:

Travel

To get the cheapest tickets, you have to book early, at least several weeks in advance. You can often find very cheap tickets on the Internet, on the websites of either travel companies or the airlines themselves. Shop around and compare for the best price.

Sending your belongings home

If you have been in the for a long time, you probably have more things now that you could carry on a plane or other form of transport. Check with the travel agent or airline about weight or size limits for luggage. Paying for excess luggage on the plane can be very expensive. Sending it by ship or by rail is often cheaper but be careful to choose a company which has a good reputation and is reliable.

Ask friends or your student adviser for suggestions; or consult the British Association of Removers. Check if the price includes insurance to cover any loss or breakages. If you have items you do not need or do not want to take home, such as furniture, textbooks, a computer or stereo, you could sell these to other students, or in the local newspaper; or give them to a local charity shop. (You can find a list of charity shops in the local telephone directory).

Income Tax refunds

If you have been working in the and paying income tax, you may be entitled to have some of that tax refunded to you. Contact Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs for details on how to claim an income tax or national insurance refund.

Value Added Tax (VAT) refunds

If you have recently (within 3 months of your departure date) bought items in the UK which you will take back to your home-country outside the European Economic Area (EEA), you might be able to claim back some of the Value Added Tax (VAT). To use the VAT Refund Scheme, you will normally have to buy the goods from a shop that operates the scheme. You can find more information about VAT refunds from Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs.

Notification of your departure

You will need to tell various people and offices when you intend to leave your address: for example your academic department, accommodation-provider, employer (if you have one), doctor, bank, and so on. There are more details about this in the 'Pre-departure checklist' at the end of this Information Sheet. It is best to contact each office at least a month before you leave to find out about deadlines and what you need to do.

Check if there is a specific period of notice for your accommodation and find out how you can get your deposit back before you leave, or you will be charged rent even after you have left.

Pay all bills and overdrafts before you leave the . Remember that banks have agreements with banks in many other countries, which could enable them to collect debts from your home bank. Also, your institution may refuse to give you your degree or other academic qualification until you pay any money you still owe for your tuition fees, accommodation, or library fines.

Notification of your forwarding address

Career considerations

To help you in your professional life back in your home country, it can be very helpful to have references from the . At least a month before you leave, contact a few people who can comment on your abilities and your work (such as an academic supervisor or employer) and ask them for a written reference.
You might also want to buy or subscribe to specialist publications that you cannot find at home, or to join a professional organization to help you keep your knowledge up-to-date.

Your institution's Careers Service may be able to help you research potential employers in your home country (or elsewhere) and to subscribe to websites which will email job vacancies to you.

Reverse Culture Shock

Family relationships and friends

One student said: Here I have grown used to my privacy and independence. I know when I return home I will lose these. My parents realize what I am going through, but they are not sympathetic.

You might feel that you have changed a lot while you have been away from home. You may now have very different ideas and attitudes compared to when you left home. However, your family and friends may expect you to be just the same as you were when you left, and they may find it difficult to get used to the 'new you'. For example, perhaps you now think about the roles of men and women in life in a way that is different from what your friends or family think.

Perhaps while you were away you enjoyed a lot of freedom in matters of food, how time is organized and leisure activities, and this might be very different from attitudes at home. You might also find that young members of your family do not really remember you or may seem jealous that you have been away.
Of course, your family and friends have also changed in the time that you have been away: you may be shocked by how much older your parents seem; and friends may have got married, or had children. All these changes can cause tensions at home and make it more difficult for you to re-adjust quickly.

Work

Another student said: Sometimes people at home don't appreciate your achievements... When I got back I really had problems at work. Nobody wanted to accept the ideas I had learned.

If you are returning to your previous job or employer, you might find that, while you were away, you have lost touch with important information or developments At first, you may feel unable to contribute in meetings and conversations. In addition, your colleagues may be jealous or hostile, because you had an opportunity that was denied to them.

They may be suspicious of your new skills and knowledge; and may think that the changes in the type of clothes you wear, the way you behave or the way you speak mean that you think you are better than them. Perhaps they will have unrealistic expectations of what you can achieve. In the beginning, you may not have much chance to use the skills that you worked so hard to develop during your study, because of lack of equipment or funding. You may also feel frustrated by different ways of working or procedures.

Economic and political conditions

You may find that your country has experienced economic problems and that it is difficult to buy things that you could find very easily in the . You may have to go without some of the conveniences you got used to in the . However, if your country's economy has become very successful, you may find that familiar environments are now very different and that there are now new procedures and regulations.
A different government may be in power and there may also be new political groups, so you may feel out of touch with politics.

Customs and ideas

Keeping in touch

When you have returned to your own country, it can help to talk to others who have returned home after living in another culture. Your institution might have an Alumni (graduates) Association in your country, which may organize activities and provide services of interest and help to you. Be sure to check before you leave the . Even if there is no Alumni Association, the Alumni Office may be able to give you the names of former students who live near your home and who would be willing to meet you.

The office of the British Council in your country may also be able to tell you about local alumni, and may have facilities that will enable you to keep in touch with developments in the . In conclusion, bear in mind that when you return to your home country after a long absence, there can be difficulties to begin with and it can take time to re-adapt. Be aware of reverse culture shock, but do not worry about it. Concentrate on enjoying the positive aspects of being back home, such as being with friends and family, and re-discovering your own country.

Your course is almost over - what happens next? You are probably happy about going back home, but also sorry that your experience is coming to an end. Find out how to prolong your stay in the , maintain your links once you leave, carry your experience into your new life back home, and take advantage of opportunities to return to the in the future.

Preparing to leave

When it is time to return home, you will find that leaving the will take almost as much planning and organization as your arrival did. You will have to arrange to get yourself and your belongings back home and to formally end all the day-to-day business relationships you set up when you first arrived.

Saying your goodbyes

Packing and shipping

Staying connected

Your alumni association

British Council

Coming back

Your time studying in the could be just the start of a rewarding relationship. In an international business world and jobs market, your future career success is likely to be strongly affected by your international knowledge, vision and contacts. As a world centre for finance, multinational companies and global, trend-setting creative and media industries, the is your passage to the world stage. Here are a few examples of the many opportunities to further develop your career by coming back to the.

Executive development

Multinational and large-scale organizations expect their staff to undergo regular training and development to constantly update and improve their skills and personal qualities. Executive development programmes - intense training courses in practical subjects such as leadership, team-building, presentation skills and strategy-making - are offered by more than 100 business schools in the , and usually last between one day and four weeks. These programmes are mostly funded by employers and may be delivered either face-to-face at business schools or within companies, or through distance learning.

British Overseas Industrial Placement (BOND) Scheme

The BOND Scheme is a UK Trade and Investment initiative, which provides companies with low-cost introductions to potential business partners in leading developing international markets. High-quality professionals, selected through the network of British Council offices overseas, are assigned to companies for work attachments for up to 12 months' duration. The flexibility of the scheme ensures that it can be tailored to suit most business needs.

IAESTE Exchange Programme

This scheme has been running for more than 50 years, setting up training placements for international science and engineering students. IAESTE training placements are available in industrial and commercial organizations, research institutes, local government bodies, state enterprises, consultancies, laboratories and academic institutions. Placements are usually for eight to 12 weeks in the summer months, although longer-term placements are sometimes available.

Scottish Networks International (SNI)

Scottish Networks International aims to enhance the educational experience of carefully selected international postgraduate students who have chosen to study in by developing contacts with companies and organizations in , which can be continued abroad.

SNI organizes a flexible programme of business networking events and seminars,one-to-one company meetings, and cultural and social excursions. SNI can facilitate work-experience placements with companies or organizations in for some Associates at the end of their studies. Being part of SNI gives Associates membership of the International Business Network which has over 900 alumni in 89 countries around the world.