Pre arrival student information | LJMU International Study Centre

We’re looking forward to welcoming you

We will be open for you to join us for your studies* and are looking forward to welcoming you to the International Study Centre.

You can choose how you study:

Whether you are getting ready to join us on campus soon or you can’t wait to begin your studies but you have concerns about travelling to the UK, we will help you to get to where you want to be.

We are open for you to begin your studies in the centre from the start of term. In order to create the safest possible learning environment, and whilst social distancing restrictions are in place, you will benefit from a mixture of as many face-to-face interactions as possible, supported by online learning. You will also receive one-to-one support, giving you help and guidance every step of the way.

If you are unable to travel for the start of term, you can start your programme online from home with virtual teacher-led learning and join us on campus at any point during your programme. When you are ready to travel, our transition plan will ensure you have a smooth transfer to the UK and are fully integrated into face-to-face classes at the Centre with minimal disruption to your studies.

We expect and hope that you will be able to travel to the UK and study in the Centre with us soon. However, if you are unable to travel for the duration of your programme, you can complete your entire pathway programme from home via virtual, teacher-led learning. The University has confirmed that due to exceptional circumstances related to the pandemic it would recognise online-only study and assessment for progression.**

However you study, our experienced, specialist staff will be available to offer academic guidance, tutorial sessions, careers advice as well as personal and welfare support.

Students that start their programme from home will benefit from the expanded list of English tests we will accept for entry for online study, our 21 day money back*** satisfaction offer and updated visa refund policy.

*Subject to satisfactory completion of our detailed health and safety risk assessment.
**Subject to meeting the progression requirements, the University has confirmed that if you are unable to travel for the whole of your pathway programme due to exceptional circumstances related to the pandemic, it will recognise online-only study and assessment for progression.
***Provided students have an online attendance level of 80% or more

Local support information for students

Question	Answer
Is the Centre open?	Due to government guidance put in place to limit the spread of COVID-19, we closed the International Study Centre and moved to teaching online in March 2020. Although the campus is currently closed, staff are still working and providing all teaching and support services via telephone, an online learning environment (Canvas), and other communication methods. In accordance with current UK government guidelines and following consultation with Liverpool John Moores University, we have determined the Liverpool John Moores University International Study Centre (LJMU ISC) can safely open for all students to return to learning on campus with appropriate safety measures in place on 21/09/2020^. Subject to satisfactory completion of a rigorous health and safety risk assessment. ^Information is subject to change. Government guidance to prevent the spread of COVID-19 is regularly changing and therefore we will continue to review and adapt the measures that we’re putting in place to safeguard our staff and students as we plan to reopen the International Study Centre.
What facilities are available on campus?	When the Centre reopens and whilst social distancing measures are in place, at the LJMU ISC you will benefit from a mixture of as many face-to-face interactions as possible, supported by online learning. You will receive one-to-one support, giving you help and guidance every step of the way. Until the Centre reopens, all teaching and learning will continue online. Only staff carrying out essential activities and students living on site should be on campus. We are still available to support you during this time, so please do continue to contact us should you require support. Along with access to any International Study Centre facilities, students will be able to access the University facilities. For further information on access to university facilities please visit the university website.
What should I do if I need support when I arrive in the UK?	We’ll ensure that you have all the information and support you need ahead of your move to the UK. We will provide you with tailored information to prepare you for your journey; including information about what to pack, planning for your arrival, and how to make the most of your time at the Centre. If you need help with anything when you arrive, you can call the Centre's Emergency Contact number for support: LJMU ISC: +44 (0) 7825 274571
What should I do if I am in the UK and I need health advice or welfare support?	If you show the symptoms of COVID-19 then you should follow official UK medical advice. You should also contact the International Study Centre for further information. View the government’s advice on what to do if you are displaying symptoms of the coronavirus. While the centre is closed, we are still available to support you, and all essential services will still be provided.

Here to support you

From visa application through to booking accommodation, you’ll be fully supported by our dedicated team every step of the way. We’ll ensure that you have all the information and support you need ahead of starting your studies with us and planning to move to the UK. We will provide you with information to prepare you for life in the UK; including information about what to pack, planning for your arrival, and how to make the most of your time at the Centre or College.

If you are enrolled on our Prepare for Success programme, you will receive guidance on what you need to do to get ready for your departure to the UK, or to start your studies online from your home country.

For more details about our commitment to support you visit - studygroup.com/study/uk-learning

Pre-arrival information for new students

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.

What’s it like to live 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.

What's the weather like?

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.

How will I meet people and make friends?

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.

What if I can't speak English well?

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.

Will I be able to find food from my home country?

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.

What if I get homesick?

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.

New student information