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New Students

Life as an International Student

We're here to help you to make the most of your time at Queen Mary!

Life as an International Student

Welcome!

We are delighted to welcome you to Queen Mary! 

Ariel shot of Mile End campus

Accommodation

Students enjoying a walk along the canal at Mile EndOne of the most striking things about Queen Mary is our Mile End campus. It’s the largest self-contained student campus in central London, and only 15 minutes by tube from Oxford Street, Covent Garden and the rest of the West End.

It’s very unusual for a London university – in fact, we’re the only college in the University of London who can offer students a central campus containing cafes, a bar, restaurants, accommodation, a gym, a student shop, a cashpoint and laundrette.

students playing volleyball

You have all the advantages of living in the capital city as well as being part of a sociable and safe student village. There’s 24-hour security on campus and all student flats have intercoms.

The Advice and Counselling Service website also has information about living in the UK for example working and information about funding your studiesthe cost of living, planning your budget, and money saving ideas.

Help with your studies

Mathematical Sciences bannerWhile studying at Queen Mary, you can attend free English language courses during the academic year that can be adapted to meet your individual needs.

There are courses in general areas such as improving conversational English, as well as courses designed to help you communicate in particular subject areas, such as law or economics. You can also develop your study skills by joining part-time courses in academic writing, presentation skills, research and note-taking, time management and revision and examination skills.

For more information, visit the English Language and Learning section of our website.

Adjusting to study in the UK

Our web resource on academic culture in the UK includes 12 short recordings of QMUL students from all over the world. They talk about some of the unexpected differences they found in UK university study, the problems they faced and how they overcame them. Here is the list of topics that are covered:  

  1. Course Content, Structure and Independent Study  
  2. Teaching Methods in UK universities  
  3. Attendance, Reading Week and the Academic Hour 
  4. Relationship with Supervisors  
  5. Seminars  
  6. Plagiarism 
  7. Writing Styles  
  8. The Importance of Questions  
  9. Exams and Assessment  
  10. Grades for Assignments  
  11. Help and Support  
  12. Before Arrival advice for Masters Students 

 

Academic Skills

We also run other activities and events to support your studies.

International Student Success Module

Once you’ve received your Queen Mary IT credentials (email address and password) you will be able to log in and complete the International Student Success module. This will help you prepare for student life in the UK, familiarise yourself with the support services available at Queen Mary and make the most of your time at university.

The Students' Union

Winter---Queen-Mary-Snowsports-Society-hits-the-slopes-at-Alpe-Dhuez-in-FranceThe Students’ Union (QMSU) is here to make your life at Queen Mary the best it can possibly be.

The Students’ Union provides hundreds of opportunities and events for you to meet new people, spark new interests, gain new skills and enjoy memorable experiences on-campus, in London and beyond. Many of these activities take place in the Students' Union's on campus spaces which include Drapers Bar & Kitchen, Ground Café, Qmotion Sport & Fitness Centre and the Students’ Union Hub.

The Students' Union is also there to help you when you need support through its reps, Academic Advice Service and wellbeing campaigns.

There's no sign-up required, you're automatically a member as a student at Queen Mary.

You can find out more on the Students' Union website and follow @QMSU on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and TikTok. You can also join the Official Freshers' Facebook group to give you all the latest updates about Students’ Union activities and events.

Students enjoying International events on campus

Money, banking and working 

The Advice and Counselling Service website  has detailed information about living in the UK including information about opening a bank account, planning your budget and useful money saving tips and discounts..

Check the work you are permitted to undertake, and read about support for finding work, as well as the rules about paying tax and National Insurance.

There is also guidance about who is exempt from paying council tax, and what you need to do.

Healthcare

Register with a GP (doctor) when you arrive in the UK. Find out more on the Student Health web pages.

How can I enjoy my time as a International Student?

For further information and ideas to help you to settle in and make the most of your time in the UK, please read the blog post: International Students – welcome to the UK and enjoy your time in London

 

 

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