Pre-Arrival Information

We look forward to welcoming you to Bangor University International College. We want all our students to have the best possible start and for this to happen, it is essential that you follow the guidance in this guide.

Important Dates

April 2024 intake

Online Registration Opens 19th March 2024
Induction 02nd April 2024
Course Start Date 02nd April 2024

Pre-arrival Timeline

As the course start date nears, we will contact you regularly with valuable information that will help you have a great start. Please check your personal email frequently to ensure that you don’t miss out on any updates. If your contact details change during this process, please let us know so that we can stay in touch with you and provide you with the necessary support.

Before joining us, you need to complete a few tasks, such as booking your flights and accommodation. Below is a complete breakdown of all the tasks and activities that you need to complete before joining us at the International College. Additionally, you can find further guidance in the left menu of this page.

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact our team.

 

Seven weeks to go EU students with settled and pre-settled status – Apply for SFE loan

We will send an email reminder to all eligible EU students at the Conditional and Unconditional offer stage to advise that you need to apply for the SFE loan in order to have your funds approved by face-to-face registration. The processing time for loan applications is 6-8 weeks. You will need to provide proof of SLC loan application in order to be able to attend classes.

Six weeks to go Attend our pre-arrival webinar

During this webinar, we will share information regarding accommodation, registration procedures, and the items that you need to bring with you for enrolment. We are also happy to answer any questions you may have. You will receive a personal email invitation well in advance of the scheduled webinar.

Six weeks to go Book your accommodation

If you haven’t booked your accommodation yet, we will contact you to let you know about its availability and to see if you need any assistance. Please note that we are unable to book accommodation for you.

Four weeks to go Book your flight

By now, you should have received your visa. You need to make your travel arrangements so you arrive at the college on time to attend our induction events and collect your timetable and student ID card. We will contact you to request your flight details so we can prepare for your arrival.

Four weeks to go Pre-arrival emails

The College pre-arrival emails will be sent regularly until the end of the registration period. They will inform you as well as remind you that online registration is required before the face-to-face visa verification.
Three weeks to go Complete online registration

The registration portal will open, and you will receive the portal login details.

Two weeks to go Airport pick up

We will contact you to check if you would like us to arrange your airport

One week to go Self-funded students – Pay your outstanding tuition fee.

We will remind you that your remaining tuition fee will become due and will advise you on how to pay.

0 days to go Welcome to Bangor University International College!

Our friendly team will be there to help you with any information you may need!

Student Webinars

Are you joining us at the Bangor University International College?

To help you get started, we invite you to join our upcoming student webinars. During the webinars, you’ll gain essential information that will make your transition a whole lot easier. You’ll also meet the college staff, student support officers, and current students who have been in your shoes and can give you valuable guidance.

So don’t miss it! Join us and start your pathway the right way! Check out how you can join and the topics we’ll cover below.

Do you have questions?
At the end of each session, you can ask our team questions via chat.

Did you miss a webinar?
Don’t worry, you can find the recordings below. If you have any questions about topics that were not covered, please feel free to contact our team.

📌✈️ Pre-Arrival Webinar

In this webinar, the Student Experience team will guide you through all the necessary steps before arriving at the international college.

What you’ll learn:

  • Meet the Student Experience team
  • Information and updates about booking your visa
  • Booking your accommodation
  • What is registration?
  • Booking your flight
  • Bringing dependants
  • Arriving in the UK
  • And much more!

Register or watch the recording:

Date Time Link
05th March 11am GMT WATCH RECORDING

 

📌🏠 Accommodation: Your Options

In this webinar, you will learn about the available student accommodation, whether university-owned or privately owned and what you need to consider before booking your accommodation.

What you’ll learn:

  • Where you should live and why it is essential to be close to campus
  • The best websites to search for accommodation
  • The importance of booking early

Register or watch the recording:

Time Date Link
18th March 12pm GMT Click here to register

 

📌🎓 College Pre-Arrival Webinar

In this webinar, you will be introduced to the College Team for the first time and learn about the team, the services available to you, and the important tasks you need to complete.

What you’ll learn:

  • Notable dates
  • Your journey to the college
  • How to complete your online registration
  • The cost of living in the UK
  • Welcome week and induction
  • Meet other students!

Register or watch the recording:

This webinar will be repeated three times before your course start date; you can join as many times as you like and ask questions – we recommend joining at least once!

Date Time Link
12th March 9.15 am GMT Click here to register
25th March 9.25am GMT Click here to register

 

Apply for your Student Visa

To avoid any delays in receiving your student visa, it is crucial to apply for your visa as soon as you have received your Confirmation of Acceptance for Study (CAS) letter. Any delay in getting your visa may affect your ability to register for your course on time.

Please follow this link to apply. This website will guide you through the entire process and make it easy. If you have any questions during this process, reach out to our team.

As part of your student visa application, you may be asked to attend an interview with a UKVI caseworker. For guidance, visit our guide on how to prepare for your visa interview.

Important Note for BRP Collection

Because you applied for your visa from outside the UK, you’ll have to collect your BRP, Biometric Residence Permit, once you’re in the UK. You must do this within 10 days of arriving in the UK. 

We recommend that you arrange for your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) to be delivered to the University, rather than the Post Office. To ensure delivery to the University, you must specify an Alternative Collection Location (ACL) on your visa application form. This can be done in the ‘BRP Collection Location’ section, under the Alternative Location field. Please use the following ACL code: 2HE592.

Please ensure you collect your BRP as soon as possible. You need it to complete face-to-face registration at the college and officially start your pathway course.

Additional benefits of the university collection

Convenience: You can pick up their BRP without having to travel to a separate post office. The post offices in the UK typically have a long queue – so it’s best to avoid collection here if possible.

Reduced Wait Times: The university has dedicated staff and procedures in place to streamline the BRP collection process for you.

Support Services: The university staff can provide additional support and guidance regarding immigration matters.

Book your flight

Immediately after you receive your visa, book your flight. When booking your flight, please make sure you arrive a few days before your first day of the term so you have enough time to check in to your accommodation and join your classes on time.

We will request updates on your flight details via CAS Shield, the online self-service system that you used when you submitted your CAS documents. Once you’ve booked your flight, please upload your flight ticket on CAS Shield so we can prepare for your arrival.

This page shows routes to Bangor from major UK airports, Manchester being the best option.

Airport pickup

Bangor University offers an airport pick-up service from Manchester Airport for students arriving at peak times for £45. (This is only available for September and January intake) You can book this service here: Airport Pick-up Booking Form | International Education Centre |

Book your accommodation

You’ll need to book your own accommodation, and it must be arranged before your arrival in the UK.

For accommodation, you have two options: University Halls and private accommodation.

Please keep in mind that the option you choose must be within a 40-mile radius of the university campus. You will not be able to register with us unless you provide proof of a tenancy agreement showing that you live within a 40-mile radius of the university campus. Further information is provided below.

University Halls

Bangor University offers several residence hall options, explore your options here. If you prefer to live in student halls, we recommend applying early, as places fill up quickly.

If you plan to book accommodation with the university, please ensure that you meet the following conditions:

  • you hold a Conditional or Unconditional Offer letter and you have paid your tuition fee deposit

or

  • you have been issued a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) letter.

 

To book your accommodation, follow the following steps:

  1. Select the university as your firm choice
  2. Register for the accommodation system here 

If you have any queries with this system, please contact: +44(0)1248 382667 / hallsofresidence@bangor.ac.uk 

Private accommodation

If you want to live off-campus, you can book private accommodation near the International College campus. Student Pad is the recommended site, and you can search for a wide selection of high-quality accommodations close to the University. Student Pad currently offers single student rooms in purpose-built student accommodation, as well as student flats, studio apartments, and lodgings. Please visit the Student Accommodation Housing GuideStudent Pad for more information.

 

Recommendations

It is recommended that you move into your accommodation a day or two prior to your course start date. This will allow you to be well-rested and prepared for our informative and engaging induction events.

All students in the UK on a Student Route visa MUST reside within a 40-mile radius of the university campus. Student Route visa Students who declare a term-time address outside of a 40-mile radius or who are believed to have declared an address at which they do not genuinely reside during term time will have their registration cancelled, and the University will notify UKVI of a withdrawal of Student Route sponsorship for that Student.

As mentioned above, you will not be able to register with us unless you provide proof of a tenancy agreement showing that you live within a 40-mile radius of the university campus. Please beware that we will request updates on your accommodation details via CAS Shield, the online self-service system you used to submit your CAS documents.

Online registration

Registration is a two-stage process, both are compulsory and need to be completed in the sequence outlined below:

STAGE 1 – Online Registration

Online registration is a compulsory requirement, and all students need to complete it. The details that you will provide as part of the online registration task will allow us to prepare for your arrival such as creating your Student ID card, setting up your university email address and enable your IT facilities.

Once you’ve received your CAS, you will be sent an email from Bangor University (BU) to complete your online registration, with your username, and separate email with your password. Please note that this won’t be earlier than 3 weeks before your course start date.

Once you’ve activated your BU account you will be able to enter the registration portal and complete your registration.

Please note that you will not be able to attend lessons or receive your timetable until online registration, BUIC registration & proof of address, new student induction has been completed.

Online registration link 

STAGE 2 – Document Checks (Face to face)

Once the online registration is complete, you will need to complete document checks after you have completed BUIC registration and New Student Introduction meeting. You will then be directed by the college to the University Academic Engagement Team, you will need a wrist from the college before you attend your appointment.

To note: Do not send these documents to the email, but please have them ready for checking at your face-to-face appointment time.

You will need: current, valid and in date passport and relevant immigration document (e.g. stamped entry visa, current visa or BRP), original versions of your qualification certificates and proof of address.

You must attend in order to have your full registration finalised and to officially become a university student. Without full registration status you will be classed as non-arrival, and this will have an impact on your visa.

Please note that you will not be able to register with us unless you provide proof of tenancy agreement showing that you live within 1 hour commute of the university.

Late arrivals

We are committed to providing you with the best possible student experience. To help you settle into your studies and make friends, we will organise informative introductions and orientation events. We strongly advise that you attend all these events and lectures from day one to achieve the best possible academic outcome. Therefore, we suggest that you arrive at the College no later than the course start date as stated in your offer letter and Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)

If you believe you will arrive in the UK after the course start date, it’s essential that you inform us. Please send an email to the College team at bicstudents@bangor.ac.uk with the date you expect to arrive and the reason for the delay. This will ensure that you are fully registered and receive induction once you arrive.

Useful contact information

Visa: Pathways@oxfordinternational.com

Accommodation: hallsofresidence@bangor.ac.uk

Online registration: registration@bangor.ac.uk

Tuition fee payments: creditcontrol@oxfordinternational.com

Forgotten password / technical issues: click here, or email helpdesk@bangor.ac.uk

College team: bicstudents@bangor.ac.uk

Student Checklist

You can collect your BRP from the Post Office located in WH Smith on the High Street in Bangor.
Post Office
264 High St
Bangor
LL57 1PB
Tel: 01248 370734

If you have selected this option, please note you are required to inform the University Immigration Team.

Please take your BRP, Passport, Qualifications and your Bangor University Student ID number to your ID Check appointment.
You will also be required to complete your Introduction meeting and receive a wristband from the college. If you are not sure, please come and speak with the college Admin Team in BUIC reception.

If you have selected this option, you need to complete your BUIC registration, Online registration and Introduction meeting. You will then be issued a wristband and directed to the Main Arts Building where you can complete your ID check and collect your BRP card.  Please ensure you take your passport, qualifications and proof of address (original documentation).  Failure to do this will delay you becoming fully registered.

If you are not sure, please come and speak with the college Admin Team in BUIC reception.

Once you have collected your BRP card and completed your ID check you will be given a wristband by the Immigration Team at the Main Arts Building and directed to the Library Services to collect your Student ID card.  Your Student ID card is used to access University services/buildings and to claim student discounts.

Your timetable will be sent to both your personal email and your Bangor University email once you have completed your Introduction with the college.

A welcome meeting will be held during the first week of term where meet and greet events will be scheduled for current/new students, tutors, and members of staff.  The schedule will be confirmed at the Introduction Meeting.

You will need your Bangor University email and My Bangor login password to access Eduroam (University network).
If you are experiencing difficulties, please call BUIC reception or alternatively email IT Support at helpdesk@bangor.ac.uk.

Free SIM cards are available from the International Student Support Office (Rathbone, College Rd, LL57 2DG).

Mobile Phones at Bangor University 

You will receive your teaching timetable via your Bangor University email once you have completed your Introduction Meeting at BUIC.

The team at BUIC will assist with registering with a local Doctor where you are living.  When registering you will need original copies of your BRP Card, Passport and Student ID. Find out more below.

Health Services

You will need your Certificate of Registration to open a Bank Account. You may also need your Passport and Student ID. Find out more below.

Opening a UK Bank Account

If you intend to work part-time during your studies, we advise you to apply for National Insurance –  this is a unique personal reference number which will be required for tax and employment purposes. The application takes a maximum of 4 weeks for approval. The NI number comes through the post and it is important that you provide your correct address details to ensure that you don’t lose it.

You can apply for a National Insurance number online below.

You can work in the UK for a maximum of 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during vacations.
You must ensure that you comply with the work restrictions that apply to you, as it is a criminal offence to breach any immigration conditions.

Apply for a National Insurance number

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BUIC 
Laura McKenzie
Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)

Claire Hall
Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead (DDSL)

Hannah Craven
Safeguarding and Welfare Support Officer

Hamidreza Bagheri
Disability Lead

Catrin Roberts
First Aider

Lauren Farrant
First Aider

Bangor University
International Student Support Office 

Welfare, Counselling Service, Safeguarding, Disability, Money Support, Accommodation.
Email at internationalenquiries@bangor.ac.uk or
wellbeingservices@bangor.ac.uk.

Call BU Campus Security at 01248 382 795 or for Emergency Police/Ambulance/Fire call at 999.

Bangor University International College 
Oswald’s Building,
Victoria Drive,
Bangor,
North Wales,
LL57 2EN
Tel No: +44 (0)1248 383785
Alternatively, Whatsapp our Student Experience Officer (Sara) at +44 (0)7442183673
Email: bicstudents@bangor.ac.uk

For help and advice contact Sara Ogwen Jones at BUIC reception. She will be able to assist with CV preparation and advise with application forms.

  • General student support & enquiries
  • Registration support, ID checks, BRP collection and student ID badges
  • Finding accommodation
  • Fee payment & financial support
  • GP registration
  • Accessing IT Services Mybangor and VLE
  • Safeguarding & Wellbeing services
  • Disability lead support: Hamid Bagheri
  • Weekly student support drop-in sessions: Hannah Craven
  • Programme Lead support: Tom Ledbury, Owain Llewellyn & Hamid Bagheri
  • Academic support meeting
  • Signpost students to International Support Services
  • SU Clubs and Society sign-ups and events/trips: Bob Kamal
  • In-house termly social activities & events
  • Host transition meeting for progressing students and Q&A session
  • Tutors host transitional activities in progressing school (final term)
  • Employability services and events: Tirion Roberts
  • Host Academic Integrity Meetings and exam support
  • Provide additional language support classes
  • Intro to Library Services
  • First Aid

You will be assigned a personal tutor who will provide you with support throughout your learning journey. Reach out for:

  • Personal problems
  • Financial issues
  • Health or GP registration
  • Accommodation
  • Academic support (module support)
  • Family
  • Direct to university well-being and support services or College Safeguarding Team.
  • Signposting to employability services and events
  • Checking student profiles
  • Support accessing IT services, VLE & Mybangor

Our team of sabbatical officers is available to provide assistance with the following:

  • Support the student voice within the University
  • Host student events & campaigns
  • Organise Clubs & Societies (over 100 and is free to join)
  • Invite students & host Student Council & Student Forums
  • Recruit students to become Course Reps
  • Join voluntary student-led projects.

Students Union – Undeb have 12 different networks that students can get involved with. Within these networks, students can get involved with campaigns, events and training opportunities. There are 15 Network Leader positions, these paid positions that run the networks as well as organising events and campaigns with the support of the Students’ Union- Undeb.

  • Airport pick-up service (Sept & Jan intake only)
  • International Student Support – Rathbone Building
  • Student support and wellbeing services
  • Welfare services
  • Counselling services
  • Disability services
  • Employability/volunteering services and events
  • Sessions on finding work, visas, study tips
  • One-to-one, in-person or online appointments to support any issues students may have
  • Immigration and Visa Support/Advice
  • Social events to allow students to get to know one another and the surrounding area
  • Money support -Financial and hardship funds
  • Accommodation support halls /private

FAQs

3 weeks prior to course start date.

Email Helpdesk (IT Services) helpdesk@bangor.ac.uk or visit at the Main Arts IT Helpdesk (Back of Library)

You can collect your ID card from the university Main Arts Library after you have completed

  • Online registration
  • BUIC registration & Introduction meeting
  • ID check

You can collect your BRP card from the university Main Arts after you have completed:

  • Online registration
  • BUIC registration & Introduction meeting
  • ID check

You are expected to be on campus for the start date of your course, you will need to be there at least 1 week before to complete registration and collect your ID card, settle into accommodation and attend induction events.

You will need your confirmation of registration letter from the University . You can get this from your Mybangor account in the Request Centre. You are shown how to retrieve this in your new student introduction meeting.

You will also need:

  • Your CAS
  • Passport
  • Proof address in UK

 

Once induction is completed it is emailed to the student.

Click here to see the nearest GP to the university, students need to fill out a new patient form.

For the travel:

  • A current passport
  • A Student Visa (if required)
  • Permission to Travel Letter (if applicable)
  • Acceptance Letter (CAS)
  • Evidence of financial support
  • Medical records for pre-existing conditions & details of vaccinations Any medication you are currently taking
  • Travel insurance
  • Cash or travellers’ cheques for everyday expenses, before your bank account is set up (the university is contactless and does not accept cash payments)

For your studies:

  • A suitable laptop or computer for study that can connect to Wi-Fi
  • A mobile phone with a number you can easily be contacted on
  • A smart phone so you can download the Student Portal App