University of Surrey International Study Centre

Student Support Services

The International Office

The International Office provides information and support which is uniquely relevant to international students. It currently helps over 2600 students from 130 different countries in areas such as immigration, work permits, police registration, opening bank accounts, part-time work and liaison with embassies and high commissions overseas.

We liaise closely with the Students' Union in providing a wide range of activities for all international students. There is an end-of-year lunch for all those who are staying on campus at that time and International Week, once a year, provides a chance for all students to experience and learn more about other cultures and traditions.

International Week

International Week includes an international reception and exhibition, a quiz and international disco. The highlight is an international gala where societies present stage performances depicting their regions and cultures. It is always thoroughly enjoyed by students, staff and guests of honour.

Settling in

University life will probably be your first experience of living on your own away from home. When you start you can join a programme of activities designed to introduce you to various aspects of the University and your new student life. You will meet staff and other students, take campus tours, join the Library, the Students' Union, sports clubs and societies.

Arrivals Day

On Arrivals Day you will be greeted by 'Freshers Angels' (our student helpers) who help you find your way around and provide a friendly and welcoming point of contact. This helps settle you in very quickly, as from your first day you are immersed in our friendly campus environment.

Senior Residents are appointed within our student residences, and can give you the benefit of their experience at the University to ensure you have an enjoyable time. They play an important part in generating our community atmosphere.

Your personal tutor

When you start your degree programme, the University will assign you with a personal tutor who will give you both academic and personal guidance. They will oversee your performance and progress and will be available to meet you for regular discussions.

Student Care Services

Student Care Services provides free, confidential and comprehensive support to all students. It comprises three areas:

Student Advice and Information Service

SAIS offers all students information and advice on a range of issues, including financial matters and budgeting.

Health Centre

Open throughout the year, the Health Centre has medical and nursing staff for students needing care, and promotes healthy living and well-being.

Counselling Centre

Professionally qualified counsellors are on hand to deal with a wide range of personal, cultural and emotional concerns.

Students with Disabilities

We provide a number of support services for our growing population of students with additional needs. Among these are special examination arrangements, dyslexia screening and referral for dyslexia assessments, one-to-one learning support, and help with applying for the Disabled Students' Allowance. Our services are coordinated by Additional Learning Support, and staff are happy to discuss any requirements you may have.

The Assistive Technology Centre houses workstations with specialist software for dyslexic students. There is also a document-reading scanner, a screen magnification and reading program, and a Braille embosser for our visually impaired students.

Religious and Spiritual Support

The University of Surrey is a vibrant multi-faith, multicultural community. People of every kind of spirituality, along with those who do not consider themselves 'religious' or 'spiritual', are respected.

We have a network of chaplains drawn from a range of spiritual traditions and religious communities. The chaplains are here to serve you and to help you access the support you need during your time at the University. Facilities are available on campus for quiet contemplation, worship and prayer for individuals and groups. This is primarily within our non-denominational Quiet Centre.

Student insurance

You can view information about StudyCare at: www.studygroup.biz/insurance.asp

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