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THE UNIVERSITY OF BIRMINGHAM
BIRMINGHAM, UK
HANDBOOK FOR ERASMUS &
INTERNATIONAL EXCHANGE PARTNERS
ACADEMIC YEAR 2005-06
2
CONTENTS
The University of Birmingham - General Information ...........................................................3
Four types of non-degree taking International Students ..........................................................4
The University of Birmingham - Academic Information ........................................................5
Choosing modules at The University of Birmingham .............................................................8
The Application Process ........................................................................................................12
Filling in the Application form ............................................................................................13
Visas and Immigration ..........................................................................................................18
The University of Birmingham - Accommodation ................................................................19
The Housing Contract ............................................................................................................22
Arrival and Orientation ..........................................................................................................24
Living Costs ...........................................................................................................................26
Insurance ................................................................................................................................27
The University of Birmingham -Student Support .................................................................29
The University of Birmingham - Useful Websites ................................................................31
Index ......................................................................................................................................32
3
The University of Birmingham - General Information
Number of students 26,000 students
60% Undergraduate, 40% Postgraduate
Number of International students 4,300 students from over 150 different countries
Address Study Abroad & Exchanges Office
International Office
The University of Birmingham
Edgbaston
Birmingham
B15 2TT
Address for courier Study Abroad & Exchanges Office, Room 115
International Office
Aston Webb C Block
The University of Birmingham
Edgbaston
Birmingham
B15 2TT
Telephone +44 121 4147696
Fax +44 121 4143850
Email [email protected]
Websites www.bham.ac.uk
www.international.bham.ac.uk/studyabr.htm
Erasmus Code UK BIRMING02
Head of Institution Professor Michael Sterling,
Vice Chancellor and Principal
Contact Persons:
Mrs Rachel Jessop, Exchanges Officer
First point of contact for all Erasmus or Exchange
partners: Incoming and Outgoing students
Mrs Hilary Steer, Study Abroad Officer
Responsible for Fee-paying Study Abroad
programme
Ms Rachel King, Manager of Exchanges Erasmus Institutional Coordinator and Manager
of Exchanges
Ms Kate Hind, Exchanges Assistant
Administration for Erasmus and Exchanges
Campuses Edgbaston Campus, Birmingham (Main campus)
http://www.location.bham.ac.uk/edgbaston.pdf
Selly Oak Campus, Birmingham (Department of
Education)
http://www.location.bham.ac.uk/sellyoak.pdf
Shakespeare Institute, Stratford-upon-Avon
http://www.shakespeare.bham.ac.uk
Directions to The University of
Birmingham
http://www.location.bham.ac.uk/directions.pdf
4
Four types of non-degree taking International Students
1. Erasmus Students – students from a university within the European Union with whom we
have a Bilateral Erasmus agreement
We have Erasmus agreements with institutions in the following countries:
• Austria (4)
• Belgium (5)
• Switzerland (3)
• Czech Republic (1)
• Germany (48)
• Denmark (1)
• Spain (35)
• France (75)
• Greece (5)
• Italy (25)
• Latvia (1)
• The Netherlands (7)
• Portugal (8)
• Poland (2)
• Sweden (2)
• Finland (7)
• Slovenia (1)
• Hungary (1)
The number of students we can accept from each institution is stated in the Bilateral Agreement.
2. International Exchange Students (including U21) – students from outside European
Union with whom we have an International Exchange agreement
We have International Exchange agreements with institutions in the following countries:
• Australia (4)
• Canada (5)
• Chile (1)
• China (3)
• Ecuador (1)
• Japan (5)
• Korea (1)
• Mexico (4)
• New Zealand (1)
• Singapore (1)
• United States of America (13)
The number of students we can accept from each institution is stated in the Exchange Agreement.
Universitas 21 (www.universitas21.com) is an international network of leading research-
intensive universities. Its purpose is to facilitate collaboration and cooperation between
the member universities and to create entrepreneurial opportunities for them on a scale
that none of them would be able to achieve operating independently or through traditional
bilateral alliances. To date one of the most successful and visible elements of the
Universitas 21 network has been a substantial increase in student mobility between the
member institutions.
3. Occasional Students – fee-paying students from Europe from a university with whom we
do not have a Bilateral Erasmus agreement.
4. Study Abroad Students – fee-paying students from outside Europe from a university with
whom we do not have an International Exchange agreement.
5
The University of Birmingham - Academic Information
Academic calendar
Autumn Term (Learning Period 1): September – December
Spring Term (Learning Period 2): January – March/April
Summer Term (Revision and Exam period): April – June
Provisional Calendar 2005-06
26 September 2005 - 9 December 2005
9 January 2006 - 24 March 2006
24 April 2006 - 16 June 2006
For future term dates, please see http://www.general.bham.ac.uk/terms.htm
University Holidays for Students
Christmas: December-January (4 weeks)
Easter: March/April (4 weeks)
Summer: July-September (12 weeks)
Public Holidays 2005-06
Boxing Day Monday 26th
December 2005
Bank Holiday Tuesday 27th
December 2005
New Years Day Monday 2nd
January 2006
Good Friday Friday 14th
April 2006
Easter Monday Monday 17th
April 2006
May Bank Holiday Monday 1st
May 2006
Spring Bank Holiday Monday 29th
May 2006
Summer Bank Holiday Monday 28th
August 2006
The best time of year to arrive in Birmingham
• Students are strongly recommended to arrive in Birmingham in September. Most courses
are year-long, beginning in September and ending in June. Students will have
significantly less courses to choose from if they arrive in January. We do not follow the
semester system that many other universities have adopted.
• Most university exams take place at the end of the academic year, during the summer
term, and it is not usually possible for the University of Birmingham to provide
alternative modes of assessment at other times of the year, except in the rare cases where
this has been specifically negotiated with the home institution.
Language of instruction
English
English Language Requirements
• Some students do not need to provide official evidence of English Language proficiency.
These include:
- native speakers of English
- students who have completed both secondary and university education in English
- Erasmus students (who are not usually required to provide an official test of English
language due to specific agreements with their institutions)
6
• Those students who do need to provide official evidence of English Language
proficiency include:
- All International Exchange students who are non-native speakers of English
- All Occasional Programme students who are non-native speakers of English
- All Study Abroad students who are non-native speakers of English
- Erasmus students who are registering for the Certificate in English Law in the School
of Law
These students must provide us with an official English Language certificate.
Minimum English language requirements:
School IELTS
TOEFL
Paper-based test
(PBT)
Computer-based test
(CBT)
Sciences and
Engineering
6.0 with no less
than 5.5 in any
band
550 plus TWE 4.0 213 plus TWE 4.0
Business, Education,
Social Sciences,
Humanities, Historical
Studies and Health
Sciences
6.5 with no less
than 6.0 in any
band
580 plus TWE 4.0 237 plus TWE 4.0
Dentistry and Law 7.0 with no less
than 6.5 in any
band
600 plus TWE 4.0 250 plus TWE 4.0
Medicine 7.0 with no less
than 7.0 in any
band
600 plus TWE 4.0 250 plus TWE 4.0
In order to find out which school a particular department is in, please see the list of
schools on page 8.
For further information, please see
http://www.international.bham.ac.uk/english-language-reqs.htm
If the student does not hold official evidence of English Language Proficiency at the
time of their application, it is possible to send this proof through at a later date. If the
application is complete apart from this information, we will issue the student with a
‘conditional’ acceptance letter. This means that the student will be able to come to
Birmingham only if they provide the evidence of English Language Proficiency before
the start of term.
All students should note that:
• All students studying at the University of Birmingham are required to have a good
working knowledge of English before beginning their studies.
• We do not provide English Language support for beginners in English.
• Students may be required to return home if they cannot manage the academic work for
which they have registered due to their level of English.
7
Number of credits
Students registered at the University of Birmingham, including Erasmus and Exchange
Students, are expected to take a maximum of 120 credits for a full academic year or 60
credits for half the academic year.
ECTS
120 University of Birmingham credits is equivalent to 60 ECTS credits.
60 University of Birmingham credits is equivalent to 30 ECTS.
University Of Birmingham Mark Scheme
Grade Numerical Mark (%) Award/Result
A 70 or above First Class 1st
B 60 - 69 Upper Second Class 2:1
C 50 - 59 Lower Second Class 2:2
D 40 - 49 Third Class 3rd
E 39 or below Fail*
*Pass by compensation may be permitted for marks 35 – 39
Degree titles in the UK
Degrees in the UK are divided into various titles:
BA – Bachelor of Arts
BSc – Bachelor of Sciences
BPhil – Bachelor of Philosophy
BCom – Bachelor of Commerce
BMus – Bachelor of Music
LLB – Bachelor of Laws
BEng – Bachelor of Engineering
MbChB – Bachelor of Medicine
BDS – Bachelor of Dental Surgery
(Hons) – with Honours
Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Sciences are the most common.
Degrees titles are written like this:
BCom International Commerce
BA (Hons) German Studies and French Studies
BSc Psychology
You will see these terms used on UK university websites and in prospectuses and other
promotional literature.
8
Choosing modules at The University of Birmingham
The School System
• The University of Birmingham is divided up into Schools. Individual Schools can also
contain a number of departments.
• Here is a list of the Schools in the University of Birmingham:
School of Biosciences
School of Chemistry
School of Earth Sciences
School of Engineering
• School of Metallurgy and Materials
• School of Civil Engineering
• School of Chemical Engineering
• School of Electrical Engineering
• School of Manufacturing and
Mechanical Engineering
School of Humanities
• Drama and Theatre Arts
• French Studies
• Hispanic Studies
• Music
• Russian
• Shakespeare Institute
• English
• German Studies
• Italian Studies
• Philosophy
School of Mathematics
School of Physics and Astronomy
School of Public Policy
• Centre for Urban and Regional Studies
(CURS)
• Local Government Studies
• Centre for Global Ethics
• International Development
School of Sport and Exercise Sciences
Business School
• Accounting and Finance
• Commerce
School of Computer Science
School of Education
School of Geography and Environmental
Science
School of Historical Studies
• American and Canadian Studies
• History of Art Medieval History
• Centre West African Studies
• Institute of Archaeology and Antiquity
• Modern History
• Theology and Religion
School of Law
School of Psychology
School of Social Sciences
• Economics
• Political Science and International
Studies (POLSIS)
• Sociology
• Institute for Applied Social Studies
(IASS)
- Social Policy
- Social Work
• European Research Institute
- Centre for Russian and East European
Studies (CREES)
- Institute for German Studies (IGS)
9
A Home School
• Academic life in the UK is different to many other countries in that students study only
one subject at university. Erasmus and International Exchange students usually ‘belong’
to one School and will take the majority of their modules there. (In rare cases, students
belong to two Schools).
• For this reason, students should choose the majority of their modules from one
School/Department as this will help to give them a better ‘identity’ during their time at
Birmingham.
• The Study Abroad & Exchanges Office will give all students a ‘host department’ on the
basis of their module choices on their application form.
• Erasmus students must take the majority of their modules in the School/department with
which their home university has established an exchange. See
http://www.international.bham.ac.uk/exchanges/programme.htm “Special Information
for Erasmus students”.
Flexibility
• Students should bear in mind that it may not always be possible to find exactly the same
modules as those taught at their home universities.
• Module choices cannot always be guaranteed. Erasmus and International Exchange
students are not registered on a specific degree programme at Birmingham and can take
classes from a number of departments besides their home department. For this reason the
student’s programme of study will only be finalised on arrival in Birmingham.
• Module choices are provisional. Although we will make every effort to give students the
courses they have chosen, we cannot be held responsible for cancelled modules or
students not being accepted onto modules due to classes being full or students not
meeting the academic requirements.
• Departments are usually able to offer most modules to International Students, but this
depends on the student’s timetable and the number of home students already registered
in the class. We cannot be held responsible if students are not admitted into classes for
these reasons.
• Dissertation modules are not normally available for Erasmus and International Exchange
students.
• Modules with prerequisite requirements are not normally available for International
Students.
• All students will have the opportunity to register for ‘elective’ modules when they arrive
in Birmingham. These modules are run principally to give Science students the
opportunity to study some subjects outside their specific degree area. They carry a credit
value and are assessed in the same way as other modules. Erasmus and International
Exchange students will be eligible to register for these courses. Students can usually
register for these modules on arrival in September.
• The English for International Students Unit (EISU) run free academic English courses
during term time for students whose first language is not English. See
www.eisu.bham.ac.uk for details.
10
Restrictions
There are some specific departmental restrictions on which courses Erasmus and
International Exchange students can take whilst at Birmingham.
Accounting &
Finance
Students must enrol for a full academic year.
Chemical
Engineering
Students must enrol for a full academic year.
Commerce • Students must enrol for a full academic year (unless there is a specific
agreement).
• Students cannot take Entrepreneurial & Small Business Studies
• Accounting and Finance subjects by approval only
Computer Science • Students must enrol for a full academic year.
• In exceptional cases it may be possible to accept students for
Spring/Summer term only.
• Please see http://www.cs.bham.ac.uk/resources/studentinfo for more
information.
Centre for West
African Studies
Students cannot take the following courses: Dissertation and Focus on African
Studies I and II.
Drama • The Department will only consider students who are majoring in Drama or
Theatre Arts at their home university, who have demonstrable interest in
the subject outside the formal academic discipline and who have an
excellent academic record.
• Students who have a casual interest in this subject will not be accepted for
modules in this department.
English • Students must enrol for a full academic year (unless there is a specific
agreement).
• There are some restrictions on the number of modules a student can take.
See http://www.english.bham.ac.uk/erasmus for details.
• All students choosing modules in the Department of English must be
majoring in Literature at their home institution.
French Please see http://www.french.bham.ac.uk/erasmus
Geography Students are not allowed to take the following modules: Field Studies,
Dissertation or Restoration of Freshwater Ecosystems.
Hispanic Studies Please see http://www.hispanic.bham.ac.uk/student/socinf.htm
Italian Please see http://www.italian.bham.ac.uk/ug/eras.htm
Law • Students on the Erasmus scheme will do a specific programme called the
'Certificate of English Law' which is for a full academic year. This should
be written on the application form – there is no need to list the individual
modules. For full information please see
http://www.law.bham.ac.uk/prospectus/international/cert-english-law.htm
• If International Exchange students are interested in this programme, please
contact the Study Abroad and Exchanges Office.
• The English Language requirement for exchange and occasional students
is very stringent in the School of Law. All non-native speakers of English
(including those on the Erasmus scheme) will be required to provide
English Language certification.
• The School of Law will only accept exchange applications from students
who are majoring in Law at their home institution.
Mathematics and
Statistics
Students must enrol for a full academic year.
Medieval and
Modern History
• Students must enrol for a full academic year.
• Students can only take the following modules: Historical Outlines (A &B);
11
Historical Outlines (Modern A & B); A History of Modern Britain .
Political Science
and International
Studies
• Please see http://www.bham.ac.uk/POLSIS/undergraduate/index.htm You
will find the 'year guides' and 'module outline' sections particularly useful.
• No Spring term enrolment is possible.
Psychology • Students must enrol for a full academic year.
• Modules normally available include: Cognitive Psychology A/B/C/D;
Biological Bases A/B/C/D; Learning & Abnormal Psychology A/B;
Introduction to Psychology, Applied Psychology, Developmental
Psychology A/B; Abnormal Psychology and Individual Differences A/B.
• Third year courses (level 3 modules) are not normally available.
Social Work • Erasmus and International Exchange students cannot take part in external
social work placements, but can however attend taught courses based at
the University.
Research Projects
Some students will not want to register for the full amount of credits mentioned above if
they plan to undertake an independent research project. We will allow you to do this at
Birmingham but you must provide details of this project in the application form.
Students who wish to undertake supervised research at Birmingham may only do so with the
prior written agreement of a Birmingham tutor in the relevant department. A copy of this
confirmation must be sent with the application form.
Please note that we cannot provide supervised research or independent research projects
unless this has been specifically negotiated between the University of Birmingham and your
home institution.
Programme and Module Handbook
Module information for 2004-05 is available online at
http://www.ppd.bham.ac.uk/progmods (The structure of this information in the academic
handbook is designed for students who are taking a full degree at the University of
Birmingham and courses available this academic year may not be available in 2005-06).
• Click on ‘Programme and Module Handbook’
• Click on the relevant School (see page 8 if you are unsure which School a particular
department is in)
• Click on the relevant department (if necessary)
• Then click on 1, 2, 3 or 4 (years) beside the degree you are interested in.
English Language Modules
Non-native English speakers can also take advantage of the English Language modules,
which are run by the English for International Students Unit (EISU). These modules are
free of charge and are designed to support students in specific areas such as pronunciation,
vocabulary and grammar. More information, together with a timetable of classes, will be
provided at the start of the academic year. These are non-credit, non-compulsory classes.
See www.eisu.bham.ac.uk for more details.
12
The Application Process
for Erasmus, International Exchange and Occasional Students
1. Fill in the Exchange and Occasional Student Application form
For all Erasmus, International Exchange and Occasional Students, the Exchange and
Occasional Student Application form is available on our website at the following address:
http://www.international.bham.ac.uk/exchange%20incoming%20-application.htm
This should be printed off and completed by hand.
The Application form must be signed off by the Institutional Coordinator of the University
or accompanied by two academic references.
Please see page 13 for Application Guidelines for Students concerning how to fill in the
Exchange and Occasional Student Application form.
2. Return the Exchange and Occasional Student Application form
Deadlines:
For Autumn 2005 Entry: May 31st
2005
For Spring 2006 Entry: November 1st
2005
In many cases, department tutors will want to prepare class lists before student’s arrival at
the University. Please note that priority in the formulation of these class lists will be given
to students who submit their application form before the deadlines.
3. Acceptance of student
If the student’s application is successful, the Study Abroad & Exchanges Office will send
out an Offer letter and Welcome pack to the student. For Autumn 2005 entry, these will be
sent out over the summer. For Spring 2006 entry, these will be sent out before the Christmas
holiday.
Offer letter – this is an official document offering a place at The University of Birmingham
to the student.
Welcome pack – this contains information about The University of Birmingham, including a
Study Abroad and Exchanges Guide, information on Welcome Week map of the campus
and Housing Application form.
These documents can be sent to a University address rather than to an individual student, if
preferred.
Study Abroad Programme
Students interested in the Study Abroad programme should NOT fill in the application form
mentioned above, but should see the Study Abroad Programme website at
http://www.international.bham.ac.uk/sao-saprogramme.htm where they can download a
specific application form for the Study Abroad programme
(http://www.international.bham.ac.uk/studyabroadapp.pdf ) The above application process
does NOT apply to Study Abroad students. Any questions should be directed to
13
Filling in the Application form
Guidelines for Erasmus, International Exchange and Occasional Students
The Application form can be found at
http://www.international.bham.ac.uk/exchange%20incoming%20-application.htm
The sections below relate directly to the sections to be completed on the application form.
1. Programme Information
(a) Please select the programme through which you are applying to study at the University
of Birmingham:
o Erasmus Exchange Programme – This is the European exchange programme. Students
studying through this programme must be nominated by an institution, which has signed an
Erasmus agreement with the University of Birmingham. The exchanges are usually
restricted to specific academic areas.
o International Exchange Programme – This programme is for students who have been
nominated by institutions (outside the Erasmus programme) which have signed an exchange
agreement with the University of Birmingham. This includes the Universitas 21 exchange
programme. Students should check with their home universities to see if any academic
restrictions apply.
o Occasional Programme – This is the programme for European Union students who are not
eligible to apply through one of the exchange programmes. Please note that tuition fees are
payable for this programme. If you are a student from outside the European Union you
should apply through the Study Abroad Programme (email [email protected] for
more information).
o Study Abroad Programme – This is the fee-paying programme for Non-EU students who
are not eligible for the International Exchange Programme. Students interested in this
programme should NOT fill in the application form mentioned above, but should see the
Study Abroad Programme website at
http://www.international.bham.ac.uk/sao-saprogramme.htm where they can download a
specific application form for the programme
(http://www.international.bham.ac.uk/studyabroadapp.pdf )
If students have any questions about the Study Abroad programme, they should contact the
Study Abroad office on [email protected]
(b) Please write the full name of your home institution clearly.
2. Personal Information
Please ensure that this section is written clearly and in BLOCK CAPITALS as the details
provided here will be used to create your student record.
Nationality: Please note that it is your responsibility to check whether you will require a visa
for entrance to the UK. You should contact your own University of nearest British Embassy
for further advice if in doubt.
3. Address
Please ensure that this information is written clearly and in BLOCK CAPITALS as we will
need to contact you about your application. We strongly advise you to provide an email
address which you check regularly as we might need to contact you urgently. Please write
14
this very clearly. Please note that our primary method of communication with students
during the application process is by email and you should make every effort to provide us
with a fully functioning email address.
Many universities are closed at various points, particularly during the summer months, and
we cannot always reach you through your institution.
4. Academic Background
The information required in this section is about the studies you are currently undertaking at
your home university.
(a) when we ask what degree you are studying for at your home institution we would like to
know the level of study (e.g. Bachelors degree) and the name of your degree (e.g.
Bachelors in Humanities)
(b) when we ask what your main subjects/major is we would like to know the main
academic subject areas you are studying as part of your degree (e.g. if you are doing a
Bachelors degree in Humanities your majors might be English and History)
In order to check whether you have the necessary academic background for your proposed
programme of study you will need to send us the most recent information about your
academic studies to date.
Erasmus Exchange Students: You are required to send either an official copy of your
academic transcript or a list of the main courses and grades you have studied and are
currently studying at your home university. This latter option is possible if, for example, you
are having difficulty obtaining a current academic transcript from your home institution.
International Exchange and Occasional Students: You must send an official copy of your
academic transcript. Please note that you must enclose your academic history with your
application form. Application forms which do not contain this information will not be
processed.
5. Proficiency in English
The information required in this section refers to your English Language level. All students
studying at the University of Birmingham are required to have a good working knowledge
of English before commencing their studies. We do not provide English Language support
for beginners in English and students may be required to return home if, for linguistic
reasons, they cannot manage the academic work for which they have registered.
Students who do not need to provide official evidence of English Language proficiency:
• native speakers of English
• students who have completed both secondary and university education in the English
Language medium
• Erasmus students are not usually required to provide an official test of English language
due to specific agreements with their institutions
Please tick ‘no’ and then use the blank line in this section to give us some more details.
Although we do not require an official test result we do require you to give us information
about your English level. For example, let us know if you are studying English as part of
your degree and the grades you have obtained, if you have taken either an institutional or
official English Language test (please send us a copy) or if you have spent an extended
period in an English-speaking country. If you do not provide this supplementary information
about your level of English we will be unable to process your application form.
15
16
Students who do need to provide official evidence of English Language proficiency:
• All International Exchange students who are non-native speakers of English
• All Occasional Programme students who are non-native speakers of English
• Erasmus students who are registering for the Certificate in English Law in the School of
Law
You must provide us with an official English Language certificate. The minimum
requirement is TOEFL (550 written/ 217 computer based with 4.0 TWE) or IELTS (6.0).
If you do not hold official evidence of English Language proficiency at the time you make
this application it is possible to send this proof at a later date. If your application is
otherwise complete, we will be able to issue you with a ‘conditional’ acceptance letter which
means that you will be able to come to Birmingham so long as you provide proof of your
English Language level before the start of your study period.
6. Proposed Study Period at Birmingham
In this section you are required to tell us when you are planning to study at the University of
Birmingham. If you are not taking university modules but are undertaking an individual
project, it is usually possible for you to enrol at any time during the year with advance
negotiation with the receiving department. Please write your preferred enrolment dates and
the name of the tutor with whom the project has been arranged in this section.
7. Proposed Programme of Study
Before completing this section you must refer to the ‘Programme of Study’ section on the
University of Birmingham Study Abroad & Exchanges Office web-pages. This can be
located at: www.international.bham.ac.uk/exchanges/programme.htm
Here you will find a link to the official University of Birmingham Module Handbook,
instructions on how to use the handbook to make your module selections and some
additional links to department web-pages which have specific information for exchange and
occasional students.
Students registered at the University of Birmingham are expected to take a maximum of 120
credits for a full academic year. You will not be allowed to take more than 120 credits.
Full academic year (semester equivalent) 120 University of Birmingham credits (60 ECTS)
One learning period (semester equivalent) 60 University of Birmingham credits (30 ECTS)
For very popular subject areas such as English and Commerce we advise you to list some
‘reserve modules’ in the space provided on the application form. You might not want to
register for the full amount of credits if you wish to undertake an independent research
project. We will allow you to do this at the University of Birmingham but your must provide
details in this section of the application form. Please note that we cannot
provide supervised research or independent research projects unless this has been
specifically negotiated between the University of Birmingham and your home institution.
17
8. Statement of Purpose
This is an important section of the application form. It is essential that you have taken time
to consider your reasons for studying at the University of Birmingham and, as far as
possible, you have ensured that it is the right choice for you both academically and
personally. In this section you can include information about what you are doing at your
home university, how you think you will benefit from a study abroad period and any other
information which you feel may be relevant to your application. You will be expected to
write approximately 150 – 250 words.
Please note: we will not process applications if this section is not completed according to
these instructions.
9. Disability Statement
Note: You only need to complete this section if you will require special disability support
during your study period at the University of Birmingham. If you have a disability which
will affect your studies please provide us with full details so that your case can be assessed
by the University Disability Officer. If you do not have a disability which will affect your
studies please leave this section blank.
10. Student Declaration
By signing and dating this form you are confirming that the information that you have
provided is true and correct.
11. Exchange Coordinator Validation
This section is to be completed for Erasmus Exchange and International Exchange students
only. Your exchanges coordinator should complete this section to testify that you have gone
through the appropriate selection procedures. Occasional students are required to provide 2
academic reference letters instead of the exchange coordinator validation.
12. Application Checklist
This section is to help ensure that you have fully completed the application form and
provided all accompanying documentation. We will be unable to consider incomplete
applications. Please send your application form and documentation through the post
wherever possible as faxed copies are often very difficult to read.
18
Visas and Immigration
If students are not EEA nationals, they may require entry clearance (a Visa) to come to the
UK.
Immigration regulations have changed considerably over the last 12 months and
students should not make assumptions about their immigration status based on the
experience of previous students.
• Non-EEA nationals should make comprehensive enquiries as to whether or not they will
require entry clearance before coming to study in the UK and what procedures they must
undertake.
• For non-EEA nationals we would advise you to get the most current information from
www.ukvisas.gov.uk This site will advise students as to whether or not they need to
obtain entry clearance before leaving their country or whether it will be possible for
them to fulfil the immigration formalities when they enter the UK. The site will also list
the documents needed for either of these procedures.
• The Council for International Education (UKCOSA) produces a student friendly,
comprehensive guidance note called “I am coming to the UK to start my studies. What
do I need to do about immigration?” which may be downloaded from:
www.ukcosa.org.uk/images/before_leaving.pdf
• If students or their dependants are refused entry clearance, they can contact the
Immigration Advisory Service by calling Tel: 0121 616 3540 or by emailing at
[email protected]. Further information regarding this service may be found at
www.isauk.org Alternatively, students can contact the International Student Adviser:
Claire O’Leary by email at [email protected] In all correspondence students
should highlight their exchange or study abroad student status and the duration of their
study period at Birmingham.
Registering with the Police (Overseas Visitors Registration Office)
• If students have had to obtain entry clearance to enter the UK they might also be
required to register with the Police on arrival in the UK. If their entry clearance stamp
contains the words “Must register with the Police within seven days of arrival” either in
the wording on the sticker, or next to the stamp, then they are required to do so by law.
• If these words are not written, then students do not have to register with the Police.
• If student’s husband, wife or child entered the UK as their dependant, they may have a
similar stamp too.
If students are required to register with the police, they must do so within seven days of
arrival in the UK. Further information on this matter will be available in the Welcome pack,
which will be sent to students with their offer letter.
The information in this section was prepared by the International Student Advisory Service
at the University of Birmingham and was drawn from the Home Office website:
www.ukvisas.gov.uk. The information is taken as being correct at the time of writing,
however UK Immigration Regulations are subject to change. Students are advised to also
check for any changes with the nearest British Embassy or British Council Office.
19
The University of Birmingham - Accommodation
In the UK most students live away from home, although some students attend a university in
their home city and live with their families. The majority of Birmingham students live in
university accommodation or in privately rented accommodation, shared with other students.
Housing Application Form
This will be sent to students with their Offer Letter. The Housing Application form needs to
be returned to the Study Abroad & Exchanges office by May 31st
2005 for students arriving
in September 2005. This Application form is for those interested in:
i) University Accommodation
ii) Help with finding private accommodation
University Accommodation - Availability
• We are unable to guarantee a place in University Accommodation for Erasmus and
International Exchange students, unless we have specifically negotiated this with the
partner university.
• However, there is a specific allocation of rooms in University Accommodation for both
International Exchange and Erasmus students which will be allocated on a first come,
first served basis.
• If students miss the deadline for returning the Housing Application form, they are
unlikely to secure University Accommodation.
• If students return the form after the deadline, they can be put on a waiting list for
University Accommodation or will receive assistance to find accommodation in the
private sector.
University Accommodation - Types
1. Catered halls of residence
Shackleton, Chamberlain Hall, Mason Hall and Manor House
• Mostly single rooms with some double rooms.
• Residents provided with breakfast and evening meal during term-time.
• Residents share bathroom facilities and have access to communal cooking areas.
Shackleton provides has en-suite bathroom facilities for all rooms.
• Heating and lighting are included in the residence fee.
• Depending on the length of contracts, students may have to vacate their rooms over
holiday periods.
For more detailed information on Catered halls, please see
http://www.housing.bham.ac.uk/undergraduate/CATERED.HTM
2. Self-catering flats
Chamberlain Hall’s Aitken Wing, Tennis Court, Maple Bank, Elgar Court, The Beeches,
Ashcroft, Pritchatts House, The Spinney, Hunter Court, Jarratt Hall, Douper Hall,
Queen’s Hospital Close.
• Each flat offers single study bedrooms. Depending on the residence, from five to
thirteen students share a flat.
20
• In some residences (Douper Hall, Elgar Court, Jarratt Hall and Queen's Hospital
Close) students are provided with en-suite facilities, while in other residences
students share a communal bathroom.
• Students usually share kitchens and communal areas.
• All of the flats are centrally heated, furnished and equipped with fridges, freezers and
cookers. However, residents are required to provide their own bedding, crockery,
cutlery and kitchen equipment.
• Students on the Vale can sign up to the Meal Plan which offers breakfast and an
evening meal five days a week at Shackleton.
For more detailed information on Self Catering flats, please see
http://www.housing.bham.ac.uk/undergraduate/SCFLATS.HTM
University Accommodation – Cost
Approximately £71.10 - £130.40 per week for University Accommodation in 2004-05.
For further details and other frequently asked questions about university accommodation,
please see http://www.housing.bham.ac.uk/faq.htm
University Accommodation – Locations
The Vale Village
The Vale is a very pleasant greenfield site located 10 minutes walk from campus.
Chamberlain Hall, Shackleton, Mason Hall, Maple Bank and Elgar Court are situated on the
Vale, with Tennis Court located on a well-landscaped site opposite.
Selly Oak Village
Manor House is approximately 4km south west of the University Campus, on the Bristol
Road and is well served by public transport. Jarratt Hall and Douper Hall are located in the
heart of Selly Oak, less than 5 minutes walk from campus.
Pritchatts Park Village
Pritchatts Park is close to Campus and within easy walking distance. Ashcroft, The Spinney
and Pritchatts House are located here.
Hunter Court
Hunter Court is located on the Pershore Road, 3km from the main University Campus, and
2.5km from the City Centre.
The Beeches
The Beeches is located on Elvetham Road, 3.5km from the main University Campus, and
1.5km from the City Centre.
Queen’s Hospital Close
Queens Hospital Close is located in the Five Ways district, close to Birmingham City Centre
and about 3.5km from the University Campus.
For locations of the above accommodation sites, please see
http://www.housing.bham.ac.uk/undergraduate/ug-accomm-map.pdf and
http://www.housing.bham.ac.uk/postgraduate/pg-accomm-map.pdf
21
University Accommodation – Allocation
• If a student is allocated a place in University Accommodation, Housing Services will
contact them by email in August.
• Students will be asked to pay a £200 deposit.
• Housing Services will post students the accommodation contract.
Students will be sent an Arrival Guide in their welcome pack, which will explain this
procedure more fully.
Private Sector Accommodation
Many students decide to share a house in Selly Oak, Harborne, Edgbaston or another
residential area close to the University. Houses are often for 4 students, but can also be for 2,
3, 5 or 6 students, depending on size. Residents will share a bathroom(s) and kitchen
facilities and are responsible for paying electricity and gas costs.
• If students are interested in private sector accommodation, they should return the
accommodation form to Housing Services, who will then send them a detailed Private
Sector Housing Brochure which will answer the questions that students will have about
living in a flat or house in the UK.
• Housing Services keep lists of private sector accommodation and information on
University-owned houses, besides providing advice on signing contracts and safety
issues.
• Approximate cost for private sector accommodation 2004-05 is £38-£52 per week.
For further information on private accommodation, please see
http://www.housing.bham.ac.uk/private.htm
Welcome Week
• Housing Services will provide assistance with finding accommodation as part of the
International Welcome Week in September. This event enables students to meet others
who are looking for private sector accommodation and to receive support from qualified
staff and current students.
For more information, please see Arrival and Orientation on page 23.
All other information on Accommodation is accessible on Housing Services’ website:
www.housing.bham.ac.uk
Temporary Accommodation
• Information on Guest Houses, Hotels and Bed and Breakfast (B&B) accommodation
will be included in the student’s Welcome Pack.
• Unless students have accommodation with friends or family, we recommend that
students arrange temporary accommodation for 2 nights when they arrive in
Birmingham, to give them time to arrange their permanent accommodation.
22
The Housing Contract
A Tenancy Agreement is Legally Binding
Once students enter into a housing contract or ‘Tenancy Agreement’ with a private landlord,
a Letting Agent or the University Housing Services, they are legally bound by the terms of
that contract or agreement. For example, if a student signs an agreement for a period of time
and then chooses to leave the property before the end of their agreement, she/he may be held
liable for the unpaid rent, until the end of the agreement.
Some precautions for students when renting a room or property:
• View the property that you are thinking of renting (this may not be possible for
University Halls of Residence, which may be arranged before arrival).
• Obtain a WRITTEN contract or agreement from the Landlord, Agent or the University
Housing Services. (Even if your landlord is friendly and helpful, it is not impolite to
insist upon a written contract. We would advise that students insist on a written
contract.)
• Be sure that the property will suit your needs for the duration of the contract.
• Read the terms and conditions of the contract and make sure that you fully understand
what you are signing.
• Understand your rights and responsibilities as a tenant and the rights and responsibilities
of the Landlord.
• Seek advice from the University Housing Services or the Advice and Representation
Centre (ARC) in the Guild of Students, BEFORE SIGNING, if you are unsure of any of
the terms or conditions, rights or responsibilities contained within your agreement.
• Keep a copy of the agreement for your reference.
Some considerations when renting a room or property:
• What type of agreement am I signing? (Assured shorthold, Periodic or Fixed Term
Tenancy).
• Is this a Joint or a Sole Tenancy? (Is there more than one person sharing the property?).
• Is the property named in the agreement the same property that I have viewed?
• How long does the agreement last? Is it too long or too short?
• How much is the rent?
• Does that include any bills (e.g. water rates)?
• Is there a deposit to pay? (It is normal to pay one month’s rent in advance as a deposit.)
• Am I renting the property or the room furnished or unfurnished? (Obtain an inventory of
the contents of the property, included in the rent).
• How and when will the landlord collect the rent?
• Do I have contact details for the Landlord? (Name and postal address). You may need to
contact your landlord regarding house repairs and maintenance.
• Are there any unusual clauses in the contract? e.g. ‘The tenant is required to maintain the
garden.’ You may wish to discuss such clauses before signing the contract.
The Advice and Representation Centre (ARC) in Birmingham University Guild of Students
(BUGS) publish a series of guidance notes called ‘Advice Direct’. They have a very useful
and informative series of leaflets on Housing, which may be downloaded from their website
at: www.bugs.bham.ac.uk/support/arc/ad.asp
23
Housing for students with families
Students with families should think very carefully about their housing requirements. If they
are intending to bring their family with them, they should contact Housing Services in
advance and ask about suitable University accommodation.
They should visit the International Office Website at : www.international.bham.ac.uk and
download the booklet entitled ‘Bringing your Family to the UK’. Alternatively they can
request a copy of the booklet to be sent to them by post by emailing
Students who will be travelling to the UK on their own and bringing their family at a later
date should guard against signing contracts or agreements for single occupancy
accommodation, unless there is a ‘Break Clause’ that allows them to break their contract,
should suitable family accommodation become available.
Sources of information and advice:
Housing Services
Undergraduate Accommodation Enquiries, Tel: 0121 414 6441, Email:
Postgraduate Accommodation Enquiries Tel: 0121 414 6237, Email:
Family Accommodation/Private Sector Accommodation Enquiries Tel: 0121 414 6438/7078
Postal address: Housing Services, The University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham,
B15 2TT
Advice and Representation Centre (ARC), BUGS
For an appointment with an Advisor call: 0121 251 2400, Email: [email protected]
Website: www.bugs.bham.ac.uk/support/arc
International Student Advisory Service (ISAS)
For an appointment with an Advisor call: 0121 414 2894 or Email the International Student
Advisers: Claire O’Leary at: [email protected] or Yvonne Haines
at:[email protected] (Please email your question to either Claire OR Yvonne and not
to both.)
24
Arrival and Orientation
Arrival at the University of Birmingham
• We do not arrange airport pick-ups for our Erasmus and International Exchange students
(except for those attending Welcome Week, please see below).
• Detailed travel information will be sent to the students with their offer letter in their
welcome pack. For directions to the University, please see
http://www.location.bham.ac.uk/directions.pdf
• Temporary accommodation information will also be included (see page 20).
When to arrive at The University of Birmingham
• Students should aim to arrive a few days before classes start in order to secure their
accommodation and begin to settle in. For January arrivals, please note that the
University is usually closed until January 4th
or 5th.
• If students are attending classes, they must arrive in Birmingham for the start of term
(September or January).
Welcome Week (mid-September)
• Erasmus and International Exchange Students can choose to attend the Welcome Week,
a five day residential programme to introduce students to the University.
• Prospective dates: Monday 12th
September – Friday 16th
September 2005
• The cost of the course (to be confirmed) will include transport, all activities on campus,
four night’s accommodation and breakfast and evening meals.
• The course will include free transport from Birmingham International Airport or Digbeth
Coach station, introductions to the University and the city, a campus tour, assistance
with finding accommodation, an official welcome, medical and insurance information
and social activities.
• Please note that if students wish to stay in University Accommodation during Welcome
Week, while looking for a private house or flat, they must apply to attend the full
University International Welcome Week. If students prefer, they can stay in temporary
accommodation and only attend the House Hunting Event. This is the more expensive
option.
Students will receive information about the Welcome Week in their Welcome Pack.
Application forms will need to be returned to the International Office in August 2005.
Orientation Day (October)
• All Erasmus and International Exchange Students are expected to attend the Orientation
Day that will be held early in the term in October 2005.
• The day is free of charge.
• The day will include a welcome to the University, talks on key practical and academic
topics, visits to meet host departments, campus and community tours, opportunities to
talk to current students and an evening social event.
• The exact date is to be confirmed, but details will be included in student’s Welcome
Packs.
Orientation Day (January)
• Students arriving in January 2006 will have an opportunity to attend a half-day
Orientation early in the term.
• Exact dates and further information will be available in student’s Welcome Packs.
25
Registration
Once students have arrived at the University, they need to register in order to get a
University ID card and be entered onto the University’s system. The Study Abroad and
Exchanges Office will direct students to Academic and Student Administration, where
students will receive a registration pack containing instructions on how to register online.
Students should bring a copy of their Offer Letter with them when they come to
Birmingham.
26
Living Costs
Estimated Living Costs for 2004-2005:
Expense Cost
Accommodation - University From £2,760 to £4,637 per year (including
bills, e.g. electricity, and food if catered)
Accommodation - Private Sector Average £2,600 per year + bills £750 per
year
Insurance for personal belongings
in non-University accommodation
From approx. £53
Food Average £1000 per year (For private sector
or University self-catering accommodation
students only)
Police Registration Fee £34 (For non-EEA and non-commonwealth
students)
Books/Stationery Approx £250
Local transportation Yearly bus pass: £279
Yearly bus and train pass: £390
Television and television licence £74 for a TV
£121 TV license per household
Kitchen utensils, plates etc Approx £35.00
Bedding From £27.00
Laundry Approx. £4 per load to wash and dry
Membership of a student society £3.00-£5.00 annual fee approx
Membership of University Sports Centre £35 basic membership + £30-96 for courses
and specific facilities
Personal Expenses Dependent on student’s social life
Total estimate for whole academic year
(Minimum – excluding transport to and
from home country and major leisure
activities)
£6,325
Additional Costs that may be applicable:
Visa Costs (see page 17)
If students who are not EEA nationals, require entry clearance to the UK, they will have to
pay for a residence permit which currently costs £36.00. Up-to-date information can be
found at www.ukvisas.gov.uk An extension of a UK Visa (if required) will cost £250-500
per application.
Welcome Week
Cost to be confirmed.
27
Insurance
Property Insurance
• Students must have insurance to cover the contents of their room or flat.
• Students in University Accommodation are already insured to a certain level, but this
does not cover items such as laptop computers or bicycles.
• One company specialising in low-cost insurance for students is Endsleigh
www.endsleigh.co.uk which is based on campus.
Health Insurance
Students must make sure that they are covered by appropriate health insurance while
studying in the UK. Some students will qualify for NHS treatment (see below) while others
will need to take out private health insurance.
The National Health Service (NHS)
The NHS is the UK’s state health service, which provides treatment for UK residents
through a range of healthcare services.
The following NHS treatment is free to anyone:
• Treatment in an emergency (but not follow-up treatment)
• Treatment of certain communicable diseases
• Compulsory psychiatric treatment
To qualify for any other NHS treatment, only certain students are eligible:
If a student’s course of study is for six months or more:
• The student will qualify for NHS treatment.
• Any dependants will also be entitled to NHS treatment.
• This includes free treatment in NHS hospitals.
• The student may register as a patient with a General Practitioner (GP).
If the student is an EEA national and their course of study is for less than six months:
• Students should fill out form E128 in their country of residence.
• This form entitles the holder and his or her family to full NHS treatment on the same
basis as students who are studying for six months or more.
If the student is not an EEA national and their course of study is for less than six months:
• Students and any accompanying family members, will not be entitled to free NHS
hospital treatment, except in emergencies.
• GPs may agree to treat students for free, but this will usually be limited to urgent
treatment that cannot be delayed until they return home.
• Students will have to pay for any other treatment as a private patient.
• It is therefore very important that students take out medical insurance for the duration of
their visit to the UK.
• If students do not have insurance, private treatment could prove very expensive.
28
If a student is from a country that has a reciprocal healthcare agreement with the UK:
• The UK has reciprocal health care agreements with the following countries where the
University of Birmingham has partner institutions:
Those in the European Economic Area, plus Switzerland by special arrangement.
Australia*, Channel Islands*, Hungary, Isle of Man*, New Zealand and Slovenia.
• Please note that this list changes, as new arrangements are agreed, or existing
agreements end.
• If the student is a national of one of these countries (or a resident regardless of
nationality, of any of the countries marked *), they will be eligible for some NHS
treatment even if their course lasts less than six months.
• Reciprocal health care agreements generally cover hospital treatment, but do not always
cover treatment of an existing condition.
• Students should seek advice from the health authorities in their home country about what
treatment will be covered before they travel.
• Students may still need to take out limited medical insurance.
If a student is entitled to free NHS treatment, they will be able to do the following free of
charge:
• Consulting a GP and other GP services (e.g. visiting a clinic)
• Treatment in a hospital (both emergency and non-emergency)
Students may still need to pay for:
• Medicines prescribed by your GP
• Some GP services (e.g. vaccinations for travel, getting a sickness certificate)
• Dental treatment
• Optical treatment
• Prescription medicines
Students may be able to claim for help towards health costs on the grounds of low income.
Your immigration status will not be affected if you claim and receive any help with health
costs.
Dental treatment
• Students are advised to have their teeth checked by their own dentist before coming to
the UK, as some treatment may be cheaper in the home country.
• There is a charge for all dental treatment in the UK, although students can claim for help
towards costs.
Optical treatment
• Students are advised to have their eyes checked by their own opticians before coming to
the UK, as again, this may be cheaper in the home country.
• Opticians who usually operate from high street shops provide eye care and always
charge. Again, students can apply for help with the cost of glasses or contact lenses.
Further information on healthcare and applying for financial help will be available in the
Arrival Guide, sent out to students with their Offer Letter.
29
The University of Birmingham -Student Support
Study Abroad and Exchanges Office (International Office)
• The first point of contact for all non-degree seeking students.
• Where student’s applications have been processed and where records are kept.
• The staff in this office will hold the most information about all non-degree seeking
students, and will also be happy to advise students on where to go in the University to
access specific advice and information.
Study Abroad or Exchanges Departmental Tutor
• Each student will have been allocated a ‘host department’ during their time at
Birmingham: usually the department where the student has chosen to take the majority
of their courses or the department with which their university has specifically signed an
exchange agreement.
• In each department there is a designated ‘Study Abroad and Exchanges Tutor’ who will
be the main point of contact regarding all academic issues, including finalising the
student’s programme of study.
International Study Advisory Service – ISAS (International Office)
• This service is dedicated to providing advice and support to international students during
their studies at Birmingham.
• There are 3 International Student Advisers who can provide advice on the following:
immigration rules and their impact on students; health care entitlements; employment
rules for non-EEA students; council tax; financial problems.
• ISAS also runs the Welcome Week, organises a number of social activities throughout
the year and runs ‘Interlink’, an email service which keeps international students
informed about activities and new legislation which may affect them.
• ISAS publishes a termly newsletter to which all students are welcome to contribute.
Advice and Representation Centre (ARC) – Guild of Students
• The ARC is designed to provide free advice and information to all students at the
University on all aspects of student life.
• There is a ‘help desk’ run by fully trained Student Advice Volunteers who can provide
general information and supply maps, timetables, city guides and recommendations for
things to do in Birmingham.
• There are 3 Professional Advisors who can provide one-to-one advice on the following
issues: Immigration; Finance; Housing; Academic questions.
The Student Support and Counselling Service
This service provides professional support and counselling to all students.
Student Mentor Scheme
• If a student is a resident in University accommodation, they are assigned a student
mentor.
• Mentors are students, both undergraduates and postgraduates from the UK and abroad,
who live in University residences and help their fellow students to cope with any
problems they might experience.
30
31
The University of Birmingham - Useful Websites
Study Abroad and Exchanges http://www.international.bham.ac.uk/studyabr.htm
(under development)
Contact Details of Study Abroad and Exchanges Office
http://www.international.bham.ac.uk/sao-contact.htm
International Office http://www.international.bham.ac.uk/
Academic Information
Courses and module descriptions http://www.ppd.bham.ac.uk/progmods
University Term Dates http://www.general.bham.ac.uk/terms.htm
Housing Services http://www.housing.bham.ac.uk/
English for International Students Unit (EISU) http://www.eisu.bham.ac.uk/
Information Services http://www.is.bham.ac.uk/menu/index.htm
Student Life
Birmingham University Guild of Students (Student Union) http://www.bugs.bham.ac.uk/
Advice and Representation Centre (ARC) www.bugs.bham.ac.uk/support/arc
Student Groups http://www.bugs.bham.ac.uk/getinvolved/studentgroups.asp
University of Birmingham Sports Centre http://www.sport.bham.ac.uk/
Sports Clubs and Teams http://www.student.bham.ac.uk/sport.htm
University Chaplaincy http://www.bham.ac.uk/chaplaincy
The city of Birmingham http://www.birmingham.org.uk http://www.birmingham.gov.uk
Health and Safety
Personal Health and Safety Information http://www.sscs.bham.ac.uk/phsi/
Student Support Services http://www.student.bham.ac.uk/support.htm
University Medical Practice http://www.theump.co.uk/
University Dental Practice http://www.udp.org.uk/
For any other questions, please contact the Study Abroad and Exchanges Office on
32
Index
Academic Calendar 0
Accommodation 0
Accommodation, Locations 0
Accommodation, Private Sector 0
Accommodation, Temporary 0
Accommodation, University 0
Address 0
Address for courier 0
Application Form 0
Application Process 0
Arrival 0
Calendar 0
Campuses 0
Contact Persons 0
Courses, Choosing 0
Courses, Restrictions 0
Credits 0
Dental Treatment 0
Directions 0
ECTS 0
Email 0
English Language Modules 0
English Language Requirements 0
Erasmus Code 0
Erasmus Students 0
Families, Housing for 0
Fax 0
Holidays 0
Housing Contract 0
Immigration 0
Insurance 0
nternational Exchange Students 0
Living Costs 0
Mark Scheme 0
Medical Treatment 0
Modules, Choosing 0
Modules, Restrictions 0
Occasional Students 0
Optical Treatment 0
Orientation 0
Police Registration 0
Programme and Module Handbook 0
Registration 0
Research Projects 0
Students with families, Housing for 0
Study Abroad Students 0
Support for Students 0
Telephone 0
Universitas 21 0
Visas 0
Websites 0
Welcome Week 0
33
