Frequently asked questions
Where do most international students at Loughborough College come from?
We have around 9,000 full- and part-time students, including 250 – 300 international students mainly from China, Brunei, Hong Kong, Vietnam and the Middle East. We also welcome European students throughout the year via the `Leonardo` exchange programme. Students come mainly from Spain, France, Germany and Italy. These students study at the college for 3 months and during this time develop their English Language while undertaking work experience in a local organisation.
What activities are available at the College?
We positively encourage all our students to take part in the College Enrichment programme. It is a chance to make new friends with both local and international students and to relax after lessons. Loughborough College`s enrichment programme includes activities such as football, taekwondo, cooking, computer gaming and music. All students also have access to the shared Loughborough University and Loughborough College Students’ Union. The Union is home to over 100 leisure, cultural and sporting societies where students can make new friends and enjoy their shared interests.
How much money will I need?
The cost of living in Loughborough is very reasonable compared to many UK cities. As a general rule and to satisfy the requirements for a student visa, you will need at least £600 per month to cover accommodation, food, local travel and other day-to-day costs. Please do not travel to the UK with large amounts of cash.
Managing your money will be an important skill both whilst you are studying in the UK and afterwards. The UNIAID International Student Calculator (http://www.studentcalculator.org.uk/international/ ) gives useful tips about how to plan your spending and make sure you have enough money to complete your course.
Can I work while I am studying?
Student visitor visa holders are not permitted to work.
General (Adult) Students (Tier 4) May work part-time for up to 10 hours per week during term time and full-time in College holidays.
Students cannot accept work which clashes with their timetabled lessons.
You should be aware that working too many hours, even if allowed to do so by UKBA, may affect your final grades.
What medical care am I entitled to?
As a full-time student on a course of study of six months or more you will receive free medical care, although you may need to pay for any medicines prescribed by a doctor, dental treatment and eye-care. The International Team will help you register with a local doctor when you first arrive.
If you are coming to the UK for a course which lasts less than six months, you should arrange medical insurance in case any treatment is required. Students who plan to travel to other countries should also take out appropriate insurance.
What happens during induction?
The induction period takes place during the first few days after you have arrived. This is to make sure that you settle into your studies and that you have chosen the most suitable course. It gives you time to get to know your teachers and fellow students, discover the College’s facilities and find your way around. Most students will also take English assessments at the start of their course to see what language support is required.
You will also meet the International Team who will help you to open a bank account, register with the police, if required, find a doctor and help with any other questions you may have about Loughborough.
How do I apply for university?
All students wishing to enter a UK university for a higher education course need to apply via UCAS, the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service. Your tutor will guide you through the online application process and provide a reference. You can also find more information and search for Higher National Diploma, Foundation Degree and Bachelor degree courses throughout the UK at www.ucas.com.
Can I work after my studies?
Refer to UKBA
Where can I find more information about living in the UK?
British Council First Steps
This guide contains lots of useful information, including advice about travelling to the UK, health and safety, bank accounts and much more. First steps guide
Connect Videos
These are aimed at students who will be staying with a host family but have lots of information about British culture, which most students will find useful.
UKCISA
UKCISA (the UK Council for International Student Affairs) is a not-for-profit organisation which gives advice to international students. Their website http://www.ukcisa.org.uk/has lots of useful information sheets about immigration, medical care, working in the UK and much more.
Alternatively, if you have any other questions before or during your studies at Loughborough College, please contact the International Office.
