International Study Centre

New student information

Find out everything you need to know about living and studying in the UK

Prepare for success

If you are a new student joining us at the International Study Centre, you may have some questions about what it's like to study in the UK.

There are lots of ways we help you to prepare to study with us – one of them is inviting you to our free virtual learning course designed to give you a head start in the UK education system. Here, we’ll help you to plan your personal learning outcomes, introduce you to the culture, and become more confident with the academic structures and study skills you'll need in the future.

To get started, confirm your place with us by paying your confirmation fee and the first £6000 of your tuition fees. You’ll then receive an email inviting you to join us online with over 100 hours virtual preparation content. You will benefit from:

  • Valuable support in preparation for starting your pathway
  • The confidence to become an independent and effective learner
  • A welcoming international community with social meet-ups of fellow students
  • A safe space to practice your English and meet your classmates and teachers
  • Access to high-quality academic and English language materials
  • Personalised feedback from your tutors right at the start of your education journey

Pre-arrival information for new students 

To help you plan your journey, we’ve put together a useful guide with information on what to do once you have confirmed your place, what to pack and much more.

Download your pre-arrival guide.

Arriving in September? Please check back here a few weeks before you arrive to download your induction materials.

We can book you a taxi transfer from the airport. Please complete the arrivals form and return it to us.

If you have any other questions, please contact us or your local representative.

Study Buddies share advice about studying in the UK

Living in the UK

Life in the UK may be different from what you are used to. We’ve listed some frequently asked questions, together with answers that we hope you’ll find useful. If you have any other questions then contact us or your local agent who will be happy to help you plan for your arrival in the UK.

United Kingdom consists of England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. People from all around the world, of all cultures, beliefs and religions live here. The UK has a vibrant and cosmopolitan feel that will make you feel welcome. See educationuk.org to find out more about life in the UK.

The weather in the UK changes often, but it is not extremely hot or cold. It could rain and be sunny all in one single afternoon. It is a good idea to pack a coat to bring with you. During the summer, in some parts of the country temperatures may reach 20 degrees and in the winter they do not often drop below 0 degrees Celsius.

To help you settle in, we will organise fun events where you can meet your new teachers and classmates. You can also get involved with sports, societies and groups at LJMU, or go along to fun student events taking place on campus.

Learning a new language can take some time, so try not to worry if you don't know how to speak and write well in English at first. You can help others understand you more easily by speaking clearly and slowly, and repeating yourself when necessary. If you don’t understand someone, you can politely ask them to repeat what they have said. Over time you will become confident and comfortable with speaking, writing and reading in English. You may also start to understand different accents, slang words and phrases.

Liverpool has shops and supermarkets that sell international food, so you will be able to buy what you’re looking for. There are also many restaurants that serve food from around the world, so you’ll be able to find something to remind you of home.

Moving to a different country to study is exciting, but sometimes students also feel a little nervous as they prepare to leave their home. It is normal to feel this way, and we will do everything we can to help you settle in to living in Liverpool and the UK. The teachers and staff at the International Study Centre are always here for you if you need to speak to someone.

We’ll get you to where you want to be – Read our latest guidance for current students, or find out more about online learning.