internationalwelcome guide

Liverpool John Moores University2012/2013

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welcometo Liverpool JohnMoores UniversityWe are a university where diversity is valued, endeavour issupported and achievement is celebrated and you will receive everyencouragement to fulfil your potential while you are a student atLJMU. If you have any queries about studying at University or livingand working in Liverpool and the UK, please don’t hesitate to speakto a member of staff. We are here to help.

Key University contact numbersSwitchboard: 0151 231 2121

First Aid/Emergencies: 0151 231 2222

International student enquiries: 0151 904 6050/6375

Student Advice: 0151 904 6375

Study Support: 0151 904 6066

Counselling: 0151 904 6123

Aldham Student Zone: 0151 231 3333/3334/3336

Avril Student Zone: 0151 231 5805/5806

I M Marsh Student Zone: 0151 231 5432

Accommodation: 0151 231 4166

Computing Helpline: 0151 231 3179

World of Work Careers Centre: 0151 231 8099

Library Helpline: 0151 231 3179

Off Campus Support: 0151 231 3179

Liverpool Students’ Union: 0151 231 4900

contentsSettling into University life 2

Student support services 6

Sport and leisure 11

Living in Liverpool 15

Student funding andcurrency matters 21

Working in Liverpooland the UK 24

Healthcare 29

Immigration and visas 30

Travelling around the UKand Europe 34

Useful contact numbers 38

settling intouniversity life

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Now that you have completed your enrolment at LJMU youcan settle down to enjoying everything that Liverpool andthe University has to offer. However, it is important toremember that your status as an enrolled student at theUniversity is dependent on you attending timetabledactivities and completing all necessary assessments.

induction/orientation

As a new student you’ll have to take inand remember a lot of information aboutyour degree, the University and itsfacilities during your first few weeks atLJMU. That’s why it is vital that you attendall of your induction sessions. Not onlywill you get to know the other students onyour course but you’ll meet all yourlecturers and you can talk to them aboutany queries you may have.

During these induction sessions yourtutors will outline what to expect over thecoming months in terms of the modulesand topics you’ll be studying, theexaminations and assignments you’ll beexpected to complete plus thebackground reading and research you’llneed to do. You will also receive yourtimetable for the rest of the semester.

your timetable Once you have your timetable, you maybe surprised by how much free time youhave. Just remember you are expected tocarry out additional background readingand research for your degree. It’s up toyou to plan your time accordingly to makesure that you can do this alongsideeverything else you want to do. Don’tforget, the more effort you put in, themore engaged you’ll be with your studiesand this will be reflected in the marks youget for assignments and examinations.

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attendance monitoringLJMU is required by the UK Border Agency (UKBA) to monitor the attendance of all Tier4 international students studying at the University.

As a Tier 4 international student you will be required to confirm your attendance at LJMU via monitoringexercises that take place throughout the academic year. These include:� Enrolment:You must complete the enrolment process at the start of each academic year. The deadline

for completion is within 10 days of the start date for your programme.� Face-to-face verification: You will be asked to attend your Faculty in person at appointed times

(pre-Christmas break and pre-Spring break) to confirm that you are actively continuing on yourprogramme and to verify that the term-time address you have given the University is correct. You willhave to sign a pre-printed form which will include your course details, your student card photographand your term-time address.

� Census points: Each month your engagement with scheduled teaching and learning activities willbe monitored through your attendance at lectures, submission of work, assessments, etc.

If you are absent for more than a week you must notify your tutors. LJMU has a responsibility to report tothe UKBA any student who:� fails to enrol or complete their attendance confirmation� withdraws from their programme of study � has any significant changes to their circumstances

To read the InternationalStudentsAttendance Policy go to: www.ljmu.ac.uk/StudentServices/Enrol/60383.htmPlease note this policy does not cover students with visitor visas.

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registering with the policeSome students will be required to register with the Police upon arrival in the UK. If you look in your passportor entry clearance sticker, it will tell you if you need to register. If you do need to register you are usually given7 days to do so. You will need to produce your passport, 2 passport-sized photos, your LJMU Confirmation ofAcceptance of Studies, details of where you are living in Liverpool (full address) and the full registration fee.

You should receive all this information at enrolment, but if you are unsure, please contact the InternationalStudent Advisors (tel: 0151 904 6050/6375, email: internationaladvice@ljmu.ac.uk).

To register with Merseyside Police you must book an appointment by sending an SMS text message to:07786 203 945. Please remember to include your Family Name and Nationality in your text. You will receivedetails of your appointment within 48hrs by SMS text to your mobile.

Please note: � Your appointment may not be within 7 days of your arrival but this will not affect your immigration status. � If you do not attend your appointment you could receive a fine of up to £5,000 and/or imprisonment for 6 months.

After registration:The Police will give you your ‘Police Registration Certificate’. Keep this safe and use itwhen you re-enter the UK or apply to renew your student visa. If you are asked to produce it, you have 48hours to do so. Every time you change address, please inform your local police station within 7 days ofmoving to your new accommodation so that they can update your Certificate.

Reporting a change in circumstance after you have completed your police registration:During your studiesat LJMU and while you are resident in the UK you must report any changes of circumstances to MerseysidePolice within 7 days. Again you must request an appointment with Merseyside Police by sending an SMStext message to: 07786 203 945.

Changes in circumstances could include:� Any new visa or extensions of stay granted by the Home Office � Change of address � New passport � Any changes to your course of study or University � Change of marital status

Leaving the UK:You will need to return your registration certificate to Merseyside Police once you havecompleted your studies at LJMU. You will also need to state when you will be leaving the UK. Certificatesshould be posted to: Nationality Unit, Police Headquarters, Canning Place, Liverpool L1 8JX.

For advice please contact the International Student Advisors: tel: 0151 904 6050/6375email: internationaladvice@ljmu.ac.uk

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student support servicesOur International Student Advisers are dedicated to helping you settleinto life at Liverpool and the University. They are experienced in dealingwith the kinds of issues that international students may face whenmoving to a new country, such as visa renewal, accommodation,financial concerns and the natural challenges emerging fromdeveloping a new ‘home away from home’. To contact an Adviser,email: internationaladvice@ljmu.ac.uk or call 0151 904 6050/6375.

study support

The Student Advice Team runs workshop on essay writing skills, critical thinking, exam technique, IT skillsand much more. These free workshops are held throughout the academic year, and are available to allstudents. For more information, go to: www.ljmu.ac.uk/studysupport

All sessions are informal, and will give you the opportunity to ask questions relevant to helping you becomea more confident and effective learner. For further information contact Andrew Fox (tel: 0151 904 6066,email: studysupport@ljmu.ac.uk).

improving your englishOnce you are enrolled at the University you can attend English language courses to help you with youracademic writing and communications skills. These free workshops run throughout the academic year.For details, go to: www.ljmu.ac.uk/studysupport

For details of LJMU’s support services, go to: www.ljmu .ac.uk/studentadvice/

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spiritual support

LJMU’s Spiritual Support Team offers confidential, non-judgmental pastoral care and support to studentsand staff of all beliefs and backgrounds. For more information, go to: www.ljmu.ac.uk/spirituality

LJMU Chaplains can also help international students apply for small grants (typically £500) to support youwhile you are studying. Certain conditions apply. You must be:

� from a country without the means to provide grants

� studying a subject other than law, accountancy or business studies

� in your final year of study

� be ready to return to your home country and use your knowledge for the good of your nation

� be able to complete your course with the aid of the grant

For more information, email: chaplaincy@ljmu.ac.uk

multi-faith and muslim prayer rooms

The University has facilities for quiet meditation, prayer and contemplation in each of its three campuses:City, Mount Pleasant and I M Marsh. The quiet spaces in Mount Pleasant, the Henry Cotton Building andIM Marsh are designed to be multi-faith. Henry Cotton also offers an additional room for Muslim prayers.

For more information, please contact the Student Advice Team (studentadvice@ljmu.ac.uk tel: 0151 904 6107).

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counselling serviceLJMU’s free counselling service is open to all students at LJMU and is designed to help you through anypersonal difficulties you may be experiencing and also manage the demands and pressures of academic life.

The counselling service is open between 9.00am-5.00pm Monday to Friday throughout the year and offersboth group workshops as well as individual counselling sessions. In addition to appointments LJMU alsoruns a ‘drop in’ service from 2pm-3pm Monday to Friday.

LJMU’s counselling service is based in Kingsway House, Hatton Gardens and can be contacted by calling0151 904 6123 or by emailing counselling@ljmu.ac.uk.

The University’s counselling service subscribes to the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy(BACP) Codes and LJMU is an Organisational Member of the BACP.

support for students with disabilitiesFull details of all the support available to international students with disabilities is available from theUniversity’s Disability Team (tel: 0151 904 6037/6052, email: disability@ljmu.ac.uk).

If you become ill or have a temporary disability while studying in the UK, emergency funding may beavailable in certain circumstances. Contact the Disability Team for details.

international students with familiesIf you are planning to bring your dependants to the UK, please contact LJMU’s International StudentAdvisers for advice and guidance (tel: 0151 904 6050/6375 email: internationaladvice@ljmu.ac.uk).

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If you have any questionsabout University life orliving in the UK, contactthe InternationalStudent Advisors:

internationaladvice@ljmu.ac.uk

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www.ljmu.ac.uk/studentadvice

sport and leisureLiverpool is the perfect student city, bursting withculture, music venues, places to eat, drink, shop andsocialise. The city loves football but it also hosts worldclass rugby league, horse racing, tennis, sailing and golfcompetitions. Five national parks are only a couple ofhours drive away, and Liverpool John Lennon Airportnow boasts excellent links with the rest of the UK andEurope. All this plus over 2,000 acres of parklandwithinthe city itself.

free off-peak gym membershipAll LJMU students are eligible for free off-peak membership to Lifestyles Fitness Centres across Liverpool.Facilities include an Olympic-sized swimming pool, tennis centre, athletics centre, squash and badminton courts and weights rooms.

To find out more, go to: www.ljmu.ac.uk/sport

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the liverpool students’ unionThe Liverpool Students’ Union plays a major role in making LJMU’s international students feel part of theUniversity community. The Union offers a range of dedicated services for international students:

� an annually elected International Student Delegate

� networking events where you can meet other international students, share experiences and find outmore about the support and services available both in the Union and in the University

� the International Students’ Society organises a wide range of social activities, including a regular Fridaycoffee morning

Give it a Go scheme: The Union’s ‘Give It A Go’ scheme offers one-off activities and trips for both UK andinternational students. Past trips have included visits to Ikea, Alton Towers, a ‘Shiverpool’ Ghost Walk aroundthe city, a tour of Liverpool Football Club, trips to the Lake District and Snowdonia National Parks,Caernarvon Castle, York, Christmas shopping at the Trafford Centre in Manchester, ice skating at Deeside, aValentine’s Day speed dating event and a trip to Stratford-upon-Avon, Shakespeare’s birthplace.

Tickets must be purchased in advance for these events and are available from the Students’ Union.For more details, go to: www.liverpoolsu.com

To find out about all this plus the wide range of clubs and societies open to LJMU students, go to:www.liverpoolsu.com

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living in LiverpoolLiverpool is a fantastic student city and no matter what youare into, the arts and culture, shopping or music of all genres,you’ll not be disappointed by what’s on offer.

cultural and religious diversityThere is no history of tensions between religions in Liverpool and in general religiousdiversity is welcomed in this safe and vibrant city.

Liverpool is a multi-racial and multi-cultural city supporting a diverse range of religions and communities.The two cathedrals – Anglican and Catholic – may dominate the skyline but Greek orthodox, Unitarian andnumerous European churches can be found across Liverpool. The mosque at 8 Brougham Terrace was thefirst to be established in England and the Al Arhma mosque near the city centre can hold up to 1,000 people.Liverpool has a thriving Jewish community too, with numerous synagogues, including the Princes RoadSynagogue, one of the finest buildings in the city.

The city’s China Town is the oldest in Europe and Liverpool has well established Nigerian and Somaliancommunities. Plus there’s a thriving Sikh community, a Hindu temple on Edge Lane and smaller but no lessactive Buddhist communities.

LJMU too is proud to be a multi-cultural university. Our staff and students come from over 100 countriesaround the world, creating a truly unique and supportive community. LJMU values diversity and we workhard to ensure that all individuals are treated fairly, with dignity and respect, irrespective of gender, race,colour, ethnic or national origins, age, disability, sexual orientation, religion, belief or other relevant distinction.

The University has facilities for quiet meditation and prayer in each of its three campuses: City, Mount Pleasantand I M Marsh. See page 9 for more details.

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food and leisure Liverpool is a multicultural city and you should be able to find the food, drink or other necessities that youmight need. The city offers a wide range of food shops and restaurants specialising in everything fromGreek to Chinese, Japanese to Russian food. In addition to the large supermarkets (such as the Co-Op,Tesco, Asda, Sainsbury’s, Aldi) around Liverpool, you will find a wide range of specialist shops selling halaland kosher foods as well as Chinese supermarkets close to the city centre.

homesickness and culture shockA new country, a new city, a new home, new people. Coming to university is a life changing experienceand it’s not surprising that as well as the highs of experiencing new things, many international studentsfeel the lows too, missing friends, family and the familiar surroundings of home. It’s important to rememberthat everyone – even the most outgoing students – will feel homesick from time to time. Don’t be afraid toapproach LJMU if you feel you are not coping. Everyone from your Personal Tutor to the University’sdedicated Student Advice and Wellbeing Team are here to help.

We are confident that you will enjoy studying at LJMU and learning more about Liverpool and UK culturebut that doesn’t mean that you won’t feel homesick at times. Some international students also experiencewhat is known as ‘culture shock’, caused by moving from one culture to another. This is a very normalreaction as you get used to living in a new city, the British weather and different social conventions and itusually passes very quickly as you settle into university life.

Find out more about culture shock in the following guide:www.ukcisa.org.uk/student/info_sheets/culture_shock.php

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Settling into a new culture takes time, effort and support. The good news is that thereare simple things you can do that will help you adjust more easily to life in the UK.

� Understand that feeling homesick is normal and can affect anyone at any time.

� Keep in touch with home, by telephone, letter, email, Skype. Many telephone companies offer greatlyreduced charges for international calls.

� Have familiar things around you that have personal meaning, such as photographs or ornaments.

� Find a supplier of familiar food if you can and eat a healthy and balanced diet. Contact the InternationalStudent Advisors (internationaladvice@ljmu.ac.uk) or the Students’ Union (www.liverpoolsu.com) foradvice or see page 40 for local suppliers.

� Take regular exercise. As well as being good for your health it can be a way of meeting people. Seepage 13.

� Make friends with international students, whether from your own culture or from others; they willunderstand what you’re feeling. If possible, make friends with local students too so you can learn moreabout each other’s culture. Be prepared to take the first step and find activities which will give you acommon interest with UK students. Contact the LiverpoolSU for more information on activities forstudents: www.liverpoolsu.com

� Take advantage of all the services and support available to you at the University. This includes studyskills workshops, funding advice, counselling, and much more. For details see page 8 or go towww.ljmu.ac.uk/studentadvice

� Contact your local church, mosque, synagogue or temple. LJMU’s Chaplaincy can put you in touchwith different faith groups, see page 10 for details.

� Above all find someone to talk to who will listen uncritically and with understanding, rather thanisolating yourself.

HOST Scheme

HOST UK promotes international friendship and understanding by arranging for international studentsstudying in the UK to spend a day, weekend or Christmas in a British home. Organised in conjunctionwith LJMU, students are matched with suitable hosts based on common interests or professions, takinginto account religious or personal preferences on food, pets and arrangements for religious observances.For further information, please go to: www.hostuk.org.uk

personal safetyBy international standards, the UK is a safe country, with low levels of violence and street crime. In arecent survey by the British Council, only a very small proportion of students had ever experienced acrimeand the overwhelming majority felt that the UK is a very safe place to be. To find out more, readthe British Council guide, ‘Creating confidence: Making sure that your time in the UK is safe andenjoyable’: www.britishcouncil.org/eduk-comfort-zone.pdf.

Merseyside Police, Liverpool’s police force, also produces information for international students. Fordetails go to: www.merseyside.police.uk

Liverpool is a safe UK city. However, like in any city around the world, crime does unfortunately occur.We hope that your time at LJMU will be an enjoyable and rewarding experience, but, it pays to be awareof your personal safety. Here are some simple everyday tips to looking after yourself and staying safeand secure.

� Take care of your passport and travel documents. Make photocopies of all the pages of your passport.If you lose your passport contact the local Police and your country’s Embassy immediately.

� Don’t carry large amounts of cash.

� Carry cash, cards and important documents in a safe place, such as an inside pocket.

� Always use licensed taxis. Black taxis can be hailed on the street (you can put your hand out to stop ablack taxi, you will see it is available as it will have a yellow light saying ‘vacant’). Private taxis (theseare ordinary cars) cannot be hailed these on the street, they must be pre-booked. Contact the LiverpoolStudents’ Union for details on current deals with local taxi firms (www.liverpoolsu.com).

� Try to avoid walking by yourself late at night; walk with friends and ensure everybody gets home safely.

� Use well-lit busy roads rather than taking short cuts through wasteland or dark alleys.

� Cover up valuables when walking around, cover up MP3/IPODs, expensive jewellery, mobile phones, etc.

� Don’t visit cashpoints late at night. Take care when withdrawing money; use cashpoints on main streets,and check who is around you.

� Be aware of what is going on around you - avoid wearing headphones in public places.

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what to do in an emergencyIf you are a victim of crime or need urgent assistance from the Police, Fire Brigade or the Ambulance Service,the telephone number to call is 999. You can dial this free of charge from your mobile (even if you have nocredit), from a phone box or from any landline. You will be asked which service you require and then be putthrough to the relevant service by the operator.

safety at homeWhether you are living in student halls or in private rented accommodation, there are some basic stepsyou can take to staying safe at home. In addition, we would strongly recommend that you take out insurancecover for all your personal belongings.

� Make sure that you lock all outside doors and deadlock windows when you you go out and when yougo to bed at night.

� If they aren’t already, install and regularly check smoke alarms. These can be bought very cheaply fromhardware shops and other high street retailers. Contact the Fire Service for further advice as oftensmoke alarms can be fitted free of charge.

� Find out the location of fire exits, fire assembly points and fire-fighting equipment where you live.

� If you are going away, tell someone you trust where you are going and when you will be back.Remember to tell your academic tutor if this means you will miss any scheduled teaching and learningactivities (see attendance policy on page 6).

� If you live in a shared house don’t assume that someone else will lock up your house and make itsecure – make sure you do this yourself.

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student funding andcurrency matterstuition fees Remember, your annual tuition fees are payable in full on enrolment or you can choose to pay 50%, withthe balance paid in full four months later.

The University accepts debit and credit card payments using Maestro, Visa or MasterCard. You can payonline at www.ljmu.ac.uk/epayments

You can also pay your fees in person using a cheque, banker’s draft, debit card or credit card, when you come toenrol at the University. Banker’s drafts and cheques should be made payable to ‘Liverpool John Moores University’.

Please note, the University will not accept:

� cash payments

� standing letters of credit from overseas banks or third parties as payment for tuition or accommodation fees

If you have any queries about your tuition fees or need any advice about paying your tuition fees, livingcosts or working out a budget, please contact the Student Advice Team: studentadvice@ljmu.ac.uk

arrangements for sponsored studentsIf you are receiving sponsorship for your studies, you must have written confirmation of this, on officialheaded paper. If your fees are being paid for by family members this is not classified as sponsorship, youwill still be classified as self-funding in this instance.

Please note:

� sponsors must be a legitimate organisation such as a government or public body with a UK invoicing address.

� a financial guarantee is not a sponsorship letter.

� a sponsor letter must be written in English on formal headed paper and must state your name andapplicant number. It must also confirm liability for the payment of course fees in Sterling (UK Pound)and the duration of the sponsorship.

� you will be expected to pay your tuition fees in full if your sponsor fails to make a payment.

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what happens if you don’t pay your tuition feesThe penalties for non-payment of tuition fees are very serious. Ultimately, you will lose your place on yourcourse and the University will inform the UK Border Agency that you are no longer a student at LJMU.

british currencyThe Pound (£) is the central unit of currency. £1 (one pound) is divided into 100 pence; the coins in use are1p, 2p, 5p, 20p, 50p, £1 and £2. The notes in use are £5, £10, £20 and £50. A useful currency converter toolcan be found on this website www.xe.com.

opening a UK bank accountIt is important that you open a bank account as soon as possible to ensure that your money is kept safely.

Normal bank opening hours are from 9.30-17.00 Monday to Friday, though bigger branches may openoutside these hours. Some banks also offer customer services phone numbers outside these times as well.

The six main high street banks, Natwest, Barclays, Lloyds TSB, Royal Bank of Scotland, Halifax and HSBCall have branches in Liverpool city centre. Whatever bank you choose, they will probably offer you a ‘basicbank’ account, which allows you to:

� pay money directly into your bank account

� withdraw your money at a cash point (ATM)

� pay bills by standing order or direct debit

You may also be issued with a cheque book, but again this depends on the bank. You cannot get credit oran overdraft on a basic account

You will need to provide documentation in order to open your account, such as:

� identification (ID) in the form of a passport and visa (if you are a non-EU student)

� verification of your UK and home address

� evidence of your student status (you can get this letter from the Student Zone in your LearningResource Centre)

Please check direct with your bank what documentation they will need to open your account.

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If you change your address it is important that you inform the bank as soon as possible.

When you first open your bank account, they may ask you where your funds will be coming from.Your bank may charge for accepting payments from abroad.

If you would like to open a bank account in accordance with Sharia principles then you can check the bankswebsites. Some mainstream banks do offer accounts that meet these principles and there are a fewspecialist banks that operate in accordance with them.

For more details go to the British Bankers’ Association website:www.bba.org.uk/publications/entry/international-students-opening-a-uk-bank-account/leaflets/

money transfer There are a number of methods you can use to transfer money:

� Travellers cheques: a safe and easy way of bringing money because unlike cash, you can replacetravellers cheques if they get lost or stolen. They can also be paid directly into a UK bank account.

� Banker’s drafts/cashier’s cheque: you can buy one from your home bank and bring it with you. Onlybring Sterling (UK £) drafts; they are quick to clear and free to pay into your UK bank account.

� Telegraphic bank to bank transfer: this can be the cheapest way of transferring money but you willhave to wait until you have opened your UK bank account. This type of transfer can take up to 4 workingdays and there are transaction/exchange charges.

� Credit/debit card from your home country: you may be able to withdraw funds from an existing creditor debit card to pay into your UK bank account if your card is accepted in the UK. You may be chargedfor using your cards in the UK.

� Personal cheque from your home country bank account: this is a slow method of money transfer andyou will have to wait up to 6 weeks until the cheque clears and you can withdraw the money.

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While you are enrolled as a student at LJMU it is a condition of yourvisa that you must be able to support yourself financially (and yourfamily, if relevant) without having to rely on earnings from part-timework. This means that you must have the independent financialmeans to pay your fees plus all your living costs for the duration ofyour course. However, we recognise that many students want towork while they’re studying as it is an excellent way of developinglanguage and other professional skills. So here is some advice onwhat you can and can’t do while you are in the UK.

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working in Liverpooland the UK

working in the UK while you are a student

Most international students are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during their course. Your passportstamp will tell you if there are any restrictions on you working in the UK. If you breach these conditions youmay be fined, detained and/or removed from the UK. More information about your right to work, finding a job,and applying for a work visa after your studies is available at: www.ukcisa.org.uk/student/working_during.php

If you are a student from the European Economic Area (EEA) you do not need permission to work in the UKand there are no restrictions on the number of hours you can work. The countries of the EEA are Austria,Belgium, Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Cyprus, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary,Ireland, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia,Spain, Sweden, the UK plus Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway. Swiss Nationals are not part of the EU orEEA but from 1 June 2002 Swiss nationals have had similar rights to those who are members of the EEA.

If you are a student from outside the EEA then you can usually work in the UK if your course is 6 monthsor more, but you need to check your passport to see if you do have permission. International students fromoutside the EEA are no longer required to get permission from a Job Centre to take work in the UK and youdo not need individual permission from the Department for Education and Skills or Work Permits UK.

If you have any questions, please contact the International Student Advisers: internationaladvice@ljmu.ac.uk

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Remember, as an international student it is important that you:

� Check your entry clearance sticker in your passport to see how many hours you are allowed to workduring term-time. Except in the case of an agreed work placement or internship organised in conjuctionwith the University, international students must not work for more than 20 hours per week during termtime; some students are only allowed to work 10 hours.

� Do not engage in business or self-employment.

� Do not apply for or fill a permanent full-time vacancy.

You can find out more information about working in the UK, before and after your studies in the followingUKCISA Guidance notes: www.ukcisa.org.uk/student/working_after.php

Please note: the Tier 1 (Post Study Work) closed in April 2012.

national minimum wage ratesThe National Minimum Wage (NMW) is a minimum amount per hour that most workers in the UK are entitledto be paid. Different rates apply depending on your age. To find out the current NMW, go towww.gov.uk/national-minimum-wage-rates

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national insurance numbers Everyone who works in the UK needs to have a national insurance number, including international and EUstudents who want to work part-time during their studies. It is a unique personal reference number that isused to collect your national insurance contributions.

To get a national insurance number you must be actively looking for or started work already. You then needto call the National Insurance Number Helpline (0845 600 0643) to speak to an advisor who will take youthrough an application form over the telephone. The Helpline is open between 8am and 6pm. You will thenreceive a letter inviting you to attend an appointment in a local job centre. You will need to bring thefollowing documents with you to this meeting:

� your passport

� evidence of where you live (such as a tenancy agreement, or letters addressed to you)

� your LJMU student ID card

� evidence that you are working (such as an employment contract) or

� evidence that you are looking for work (such as letters from employers or if you have registered withemployment agencies)

Please contact International Student Advice if you have any queries: internationaladvice@ljmu.ac.uk tel: 0151 904 6050/6375.

council tax Council tax is set by local authorities in the UK to help pay for services such as the Police, Fire Brigade andrubbish collection.

To be eligible for Council Tax Exemption you must be on a full-time course for a period of more than 24 weeks. Your eligibility will also depend on who you live with. Council tax exemption forms can beobtained from the Student Zone of your Learning Resource Centre.

For more details about council tax, go to: www.ukcisa.org.uk/files/pdf/info_sheets/council_tax.pdf

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healthcareIf you are an international student and your course is for 6 months or more, you will qualify for NHS treatment fromthe beginning of your stay, on the same basis as anyonewho is ordinarily resident in the UK.

health insuranceHowever long your course, it is recommended that you obtain additional health insurance prior totravelling to the UK. For further information, please read the UKCISA Guidance note, ‘Keeping Healthy’:www.ukcisa.org.uk/student/info_sheets/keeping_healthy.phpYour policy should cover medical costs plus any additional possible costs resulting from illness (such as lostfees if you are unable to complete your course, and the cost of returning to your home country for treatment).

registering with a doctor in LiverpoolYou are advised to register with a doctor as soon as possible after you arrive in Liverpool. Don’t wait until youare ill. By registering you can get an appointment quickly and urgent treatment when you need it. Once you are in Liverpool, you can find a GP in your local neighbourhood by visiting www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk/or calling 0845 46 47. If you have any queries about how to register please contact the International StudentAdvisors: internationaladvice@ljmu.ac.uk

prescription chargesIf your doctor prescribes you medicine you will usually have to pay for this. Each item costs £7.65 (as of April2012). If you are receiving ongoing treatment it may be worth your while getting a Prescription PaymentCertificate, which costs £29.10 for three months and £104.00 for 12 months. The Certificate covers allprescription charges during that period.

dental treatmentYou must pay for the cost of any dental treatment you receive in the UK. The cost varies depending on whetheryou are registered with an NHS or a private dentist. Dental treatment can be very expensive, so you shouldcheck the cost before embarking on any course of treatment.

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immigration and visas visasIt is really important that you check your visa gives you enough time to finish your studies at LJMU. Studentson both undergraduate and taught postgraduate degree programmes lasting a year or more are usually givenan additional four months on their visa after the completion date for their course. For example, if your courseis due to finish in May, you should have a visa until September 2012. If you think that your visa is incorrect,please contact the International Student Advisors as soon as possible: internationaladvice@ljmu.ac.uk, tel: 0151 904 6050/6375.

applying to extend your visaIn order to extend your visa, you will need to complete the latest form Tier 4(G) form, which can bedownloaded from the UKBA website: www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/

When completing the form please make sure that you include all relevant supporting documents plus thecorrect fee. If you are posting your form you are advised to send it either via special delivery or recordeddelivery (see opposite for further details).

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If you have dependants living with you in the UK you will need to complete a separate PBS Dependantsform for each dependant. This form can be downloaded from the UKBA website.

low risk nationalsNationals from certain countries do not need to submit evidence of their finances or their qualifications.However even if this applies to you it’s very important that you can still show you have enough funds inyour account as UKBA can ask to see these at any time. For further information, go to the UKBA website:www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/

required documentationThe majority of students will need to submit the following documents. Please note: you must supply originaldocuments not photocopies.

� Completed Tier 4 (General) form (make sure it is the latest version)

� Your Passport(s)

� 2 passport-sized photos

� The correct fee - we recommend paying by Postal Order

� Confirmation of Acceptance of Studies (CAS) via the Transaction Zones in the Learning Resource Centres.

� Evidence of your finances. For a list acceptable finance-related documents please go to the UKBA website

Additionally, some applicants may also be required to provide:

� Your Bio-Metrics Resident Permit (BRP)

� Police Registration Form

� A letter from your ‘official’ sponsor such as a Government or scholarship agency

� ATAS certificate (for students on certain technology courses)

For advice on the application process or to have someone check your completed form before you submitit, please contact the International Student Advisors: internationaladvice@ljmu.ac.uk

When submitting your application, you can choose to use the standard postal application service or apremium service, though this costs considerably more.

Postal service: If you are posting your application, it can take between 4-14 weeks for your applicationto be processed. You should bear this in mind before booking any travel and we would recommend youwait until you have your passport and Bio-metric Residence Permit (BRP) before making anyreservations.

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Once the Home Office has received your application form they will send you a letter requesting you attend abiometrics appointment where you will be issued with your Bio-metric Residence Permit (BRP). This letter willdetail where you need to go and when you need to attend.

Premium service: This can be completed in one day (please note, this service is not available for allapplications) and you will need to wait for between 7-10 days for your Biometrics Residence Card (BRP).If you want to use the premium service you will need to make an appointment at the Liverpool Public EnquiryOffice (PEO).

Please contact LJMU’s International Advisors for details: internationaladvice@ljmu.ac.uk tel: 0151 9046050/6375.

what happens after you have made your applicationYou will receive a letter asking you to go along to get your biometrics taken (fingerprints and photograph). Thisinformation is then used to create your Bio-Metric Residence Permit which replaces the visa in your passport.

points-based systemThe student visa is now a points-based visa system. You obtain points for having:

� A Confirmation of Acceptance of Studies (CAS) – 30 points – your CAS is issued by LJMU

� Sufficient money to cover your tuition fees and living costs (or evidence of official sponsorship) - 10 points

how much money will I need to showIf you are already studying in the UK with student immigration permission, you will subject to special, lower,maintenance requirements if, when you make your immigration application, you already have Tier 4 (General)or student immigration permission and you are in one of the situations:

� You need to extend your immigration permission to complete a course you have already started, andyou have studied that course for at least six months when you apply

� You will continue to study on a single course and you have already completed at least six months of thatcourse

If you meet these requirements, you have to show that you can pay up to one year's worth of course fees, ifrelevant, and a maximum of two months' worth of maintenance costs:

� £1,600 (2 months x £800) if it is just you applying

� You will need to have this in your account for a minimum of 28 days prior to your application

� If you are also applying for dependants, you must show an additional £450 per dependant

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If you do not meet the qualifying requirements listed previously, you will need to show you have:

� £800 per month to cover your living expenses for each month you are in UK on your course for amaximum of 9 months (£7,200)

� If you have dependants, you will need an additional £450 for a maximum of 9 months (£3,600) perdependant

Once you have completed your form and have your documents you can apply for your student visa.

advice and guidanceThe Student Advice Team run weekly Tier 4 workshops in the World of Work Careers Centre to help youcomplete the application form. For more details call 0151 904 6050/6375 or emailinternationaladvisors@ljmu.ac.uk

Remember, you may face severe consequences if you overstay and do not get a visaextension in time.

bringing a visitor to the UKIf your family or friends wish to visit you in the UK, they may need to apply for a visa. Please see the UKvisas website (www.ukvisas.gov.uk) for up-to-date guidance under the ‘Do I need a visa’ section.

In order to apply for a visitor visa:

� family members will need to complete a VAF1B (Family) application form

� friends will need to complete the VAF1A (General) application form

Both application forms need to be submitted, with other relevant documentation, to their local British HighCommission or Embassy.

All visitors must be able to show that they:

� intend to visit the UK for no more than six months

� intend to leave the UK at the end of their visit

� have enough money to support themselves and live in the UK without working or needing any helpfrom public funds

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travelling aroundthe uk and europepublic transport in liverpoolLiverpool is a very compact city. If you are living in the city centre and your programme is delivered ineither the Mount Pleasant or City campuses you will be able to walk to your lectures and other classes reallyeasily.

Liverpool also has excellent public transport services. You may be able to save money by getting aweekly/monthly or even annual travel ticket. Further details can be found on the Mersey Travel website:www.merseytravel.gov.uk/

driving in liverpool and the uk If your licence was issued in the UK or the European Economic Area (EEA), it is valid for use in the UK.

If it was issued outside the EEA, you can use it for a period of 12 months from your date of entry into the UK(the concession period). You will not be allowed to drive after this point unless you pass a UK driving test.

Students from the following countries –Australia, Barbados, British Virgin Islands, Canada, Falkland Islands,Faroe Islands, Hong Kong, Japan, Monaco, New Zealand, Republic of Korea, Singapore, South Africa,Switzerland and Zimbabwe – can exchange their licenses for a UK driving license. For details go to theDVLA website: www.dvla.gov.uk.

If you do not have a license then you will need to apply for a provisional UK driving license; forms areavailable in post offices.

To find out more about driving in the UK, read the UKCISA information sheet:www.ukcisa.org.uk/files/pdf/info_sheets/driving.pdf

Remember, if you decide to drive a car or motorbike in the UK, you must have at leastthird party insurance cover. You will also need to have valid road tax.

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travelling in europe: the schengen visa

If you want to travel around Europe during your studies, you may need to apply for a visa. You should checkthe Embassy of the country or countries you would like to travel to, for verification of their visa requirements.

The Schengen visa allows travel between 24 European countries using one single visa. Member countriesare: Austria, Italy, Czech Republic, Germany, Luxembourg, Latvia, Belgium, Norway, Poland, Denmark,Portugal, Hungary, Finland, Spain, Lithuania, France, Sweden, Slovakia, Greece, Estonia, Slovenia, Iceland,Netherlands, Malta.

A Schengen visa allows you to travel freely within the Schengen countries for up to a maximum of 90 dayswithin a 6 month period.

There are three types of Schengen visa:

� Airport transit visa: this allows you transit through the international transit area of an airport of theSchengen member state but not to exit this area before flying onto the next destination.

� Transit visa: this allows you to pass through the territory of one or more Schengen member states onyour way to another country outside the Schengen space.

� Short stay or travel visa: this allows you to visit the Schengen space for up to 3 months in any 6 monthperiod. This will be the one most applicable to students.

How to apply: Contact the Embassy or Consulate of the Schengen country which you will be spending themost nights on your trip to the Schengen space and complete the relevant application form. If you are goingto each country equally, apply to the country that you are visiting first. You will need to provide the followingdocuments with your completed application form:

� Passport

� Evidence for the purpose of the visit, for example to attend a conference, travel plans

� 3 months of bank statements showing you have funds to support yourself

� Student status letter

� Valid medical insurance details

� One passport-sized photo endorsed per person per application

� The relevant fee

For more details, go to: www.theschengenoffice.com

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If you have any questionsabout University life orliving in the UK, contactthe International StudentAdvisors:

internationaladvice@ljmu.ac.uk

www.ljmu.ac.uk/studentadvice

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useful contact numbersLiverpool John Moores University

Switchboard 0151 231 2121

Accommodation Office 0151 231 4165/4166

International Student Advice 0151 904 6050/6375

International Admissions Team 0151 231 3522/3172

LJMU Security 0151 231 2222

external numbers and websites

Emergency (ambulance, police, fire brigade) 999(freephone number from landline and mobile phones)

United Kingdom Border and Immigration Agencywww.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/

Liverpool Public Enquiry OfficeCall this number to make an appointment for visa applications in person 0870 6067766

British Councilwww.britishcouncil.org

HOST UKA voluntary organisation which organises short holidays and weekend visits with British familieswww.hostuk.org

International Students HouseOffers student accommodationwww.ish.org.uk

Street mapsLocations using postcodeswww.streetmap.co.uk

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UKCISA (Council for International Education)Helpline (1pm-4pm Monday –Friday) 0207 1079922www.ukcisa.org.uk

UKCISA also publish a number of useful guidance notes on their website, covering many topics such ashealthcare, driving in the UK, working during and after studies. To access the guidance notes please goto: www.ukcisa.org.uk/student/information_sheets.php

places of worship

AnglicanSt James ChurchCorner of Upper Parliament Street and Park Road, Liverpool L8Tel: 0151 708 8559

St Brides ChurchCorner of Percy Street and Catharine Street, Liverpool L8Tel: 07932 543 900

Baha’i3-5 Langdale RoadOff Smithdown Road / Ullet Road Junction, Liverpool L15 3LATel: 07989029172Web: www.bahai.org/liverpool

BuddhistDuldzin Buddhist Centre25 Aigburth Drive, Liverpool L17Tel: 0151 726 8900Web: www.meditationliverpool.org.uk

Evangelical, Gospel and PentecostalFrontline Evangelical ChurchCorner of Lawrence Road and Wellington Road, Liverpool L15Tel: 0151 733 3373Web: www.frontline.org.uk

Deeper Christian Life MinistriesSolway Street East (off Lodge Lane), Toxteth, Liverpool L8 0TYTel: 0151 709 6245Web: www.deeperlife-liverpool.org.uk

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Grace Family Church216-220 Aigburth Road, Liverpool L19 3QGTel: 0151 728 9870Web: www.gfc-liverpool.org

Liverpool Chinese Gospel Church11 Great George Square, Liverpool L1Temple of PraiseOakfield Road, Anfield, Liverpool L6Web: www.templeofpraise.org.uk/contact-us/

Greek OrthodoxChurch of St Nicholas3 Berkley Street, Liverpool L8Tel: 0151 709 9543

HinduHindu Centre253 Edge Lane, Liverpool L7 2PHTel: 0151 263 7965

JewishChildwall Hebrew CongregationDunbabin Road, Liverpool L15Tel: 0151 722 2079

Liverpool Old Hebrew CongregationPrinces Road Synagogue, Liverpool L8Tel: 0151 709 3431

Merseyside Jewish CommunityWeb: www.liverpooljewish.com

German ChurchGerman Church of LiverpoolCanning St and Bedford St, Liverpool L8Tel: 0151 677 2024

MethodistPrinces Park, Methodist ChurchBeaconsfield Street, Liverpool L8Tel. 0151 727 2035Web:www.liverpoolfirstumc.org/

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MuslimLiverpool Al-Rahma Mosque ���� ������29-31 Hatherly Street, Liverpool L8Tel: 0151 709 2560Web: www.alrahma-mosque.com

Liverpool Mosque and Islamic Institute8 Cramond Avenue, Liverpool L8Tel: 0151 734 1222

QuakerQuaker Meeting House22 School Lane, Liverpool L1Tel: 0151 709 6957Web: www.liverpoolquakers.org.uk

Roman CatholicPhilip Neri ChurchPhilip Neri House, 30 Catharine Street, Liverpool L8Tel: 0151 709 3858

SikhGuru Nanak Gurdwara and Sikh Community Centre16 Wellington Avenue, Liverpool L15Tel: 0151 327 6710

useful l iverpool links

Chung Wah Supermarket8 Hardy Street, Liverpool L1 5EFTel: 0151 709 2637Web: www.chungwah.co.uk

Matta’s International Foods51 Bold Street, Liverpool L1 4EUTel: 0151 709 3031

Polish Food Stores 270 Picton Road, Wavertree, Liverpool L15 4LP

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website: www.ljmu.ac.uk/internationalstudent advice: 0151 904 6050/6375email: internationaladvice@ljmu.ac.ukLJMU TV: www.ljmu.ac.uk/ljmutv