General Info
As an International Student at Community Revival, you’ll be starting an exciting journey!
If you’re a little worried … don’t be! Community Revival is here to help!
General Information
A great place to find out general information is the British Council’s ‘Preparing to Live in the UK‘ page.
Visas/Immigration
All student visitors to the United Kingdom must have a valid passport. You may also need a visa, (there are different types) so please check the exact requirements before you travel (you can ask your Agent or the British High Commission, British Embassy and/or British Consulate in your home country).
You will have to provide appropriate documentation to support your visa application – again, you will need to confirm exact requirements. Community Revival will send you an Offer Letter to support your application after you have applied to enroll with us.
Money
The currency in the UK is the pound (£). It’s a good idea to bring cash for the first few days. You can also transfer money to a UK bank account before your arrival.
You can bring money into the UK in the form of cash or travelers’/bankers’ cheques. Make sure you don’t exceed the limit or you could pay a fine. Check the latest information here: https://www.hmrc.gov.uk/customs/arriving/declaring-cash.htm.
Setting up a UK Bank Account
The best way to do this is to ask your bank in your own country if they can open an account in the UK for you. In most cases, you will be able to use your own debit/credit card in the UK to make purchases and withdraw cash in UK shops and ATMs – but again, find out about charges and fees before you travel.
Community Revival can provide you with a letter to help you open a bank account in the UK if you so wish.
Health & Travel Insurance
It is a good idea have insurance to cover your luggage during travel, your journey (in case of delays, etc.), your personal property and also to cover any medical expenses. You should arrange insurance before you travel.
When You Arrive at the Airport
When you arrive at the airport you will need to have the following documents available to show the Immigration Officer:
- your passport
- your entry clearance or student visa (this may be inside your passport)
- your visa support letter or unconditional admission letter (if applicable)
- evidence of funds for your course fees and living expenses (bank statements, sponsor’s letter, etc.)
- a medical certificate (if relevant)
After you collect your luggage, follow the signs to the arrival area. In the arrival area someone from Community Revival will be waiting for you, holding a sign. We will take you to your accommodation where you can settle in. We will inform you when you can visit Community Revival.
Arriving at Community Revival
Please report to Reception with your passport so that we can issue your ID badge (please wear this at all times whilst on the premises).
On the first day of your course you will be given a tour of the college and told about what to do in an emergency as well as other important policies and procedures. We will conduct a placement test to make sure you join the most appropriate class.
Travelling in and around Manchester
Manchester has a fantastic tram system (the Metrolink) as well as a good bus network in addition to hackney ‘black’ taxis, Uber, local trains and bicycles for hire. If you can, try to walk!
First Aid Medical Emergencies
Community Revival has trained First Aid to help you with any incidents whilst on the premises, You can also register with a local doctor’s surgery (GP practice). Emergency help is available by ‘phoning 999 at any time.
Places of Worship
Manchester has people from all faiths and none. There are places of worship for all religions and we can help you find a suitable place of worship, and if you want to pray (or have a moment for self-reflection) whilst on Community Revival premises, ask a member of staff to assist you.