Support for International Students
From the moment you arrive at Nottingham College International to when you leave, you can be sure of the highest standards of care and support. We appreciate that going to a new country for the first time can be very daunting, particularly for younger students. For this reason we provide a free airport pick-up for all students under the age of 18, and for all students aged 18 or over who are coming to study a course lasting for a full academic year or equivalent
Once you have notified the International Office in advance of your arrival date and time, we will arrange for a driver to meet you at the airport and take you to the college or directly to your accommodation.
For those aged 18 or over who are either coming to study a shorter programme, or who prefer to find their own way to Nottingham, there are plenty of trains and coach services running between the major UK airports and Nottingham. Details are given in your pre-arrival guide but please ask us if you would like advice on where to find further information. We can also pre-book a taxi for you for an additional charge.
What Will Happen During My First Week at Nottingham College International?
All international students will receive a 2-3 day Induction Programme. This is an opportunity for you to meet the International Office, meet your course tutors, and find out more about the support available to you. This is when you will officially register at the college and pay your course fees. You will also be given advice on healthcare (including registration with a doctor), safety and security, how to open a bank account, etc. Please note that attendance during induction is compulsory
What Type of Support Can I Expect During My Time at Nottingham College International?
All international students will be allocated a Personal Tutor, who will offer advice and guidance related to your course and discuss your progress with you. The International Office will also offer you support during your time with us
The International Office runs daily "drop-in sessions", when you can call in to ask for general information or for advice on anything that might be worrying you. The International Office also offers assistance with visa renewals and registering with a doctor, as well as referring you to other college services.
The Advice and Guidance Team are available to support you with your university applications. A confidential Counselling Service is available for support with personal problems.
Student Profile: Thuy Pham from Hanoi, Vietnam
Thuy Pham studied A-Levels at Castle College from 2008 to 2010. She achieved 3 A* grades, which won her a “High Achiever Scholarship” to study International Relations and Global Issues at the University of Nottingham
"I enjoyed my college life so much - from what the college has to offer me, my teachers and my fellow students. The years of experience of working with Vietnamese students means the college literally knows what you need, from the cultural things like the Lunar New Year Party, to help with visas and accommodation. I am thankful to the teachers for their enthusiasm and understanding. I could never have achieved what I have now without their guidance."
Social Activities
All international students have the opportunity to participate in the wide range of trips and activities organised by the International Office. This is an ideal chance for you to meet other international students, as well as home students. Some of the activities are free of charge; others have a small fee.
Trips & activities include a Welcome Party for international students; cultural celebrations such as Lunar New Year, Eid and Christmas; a University Fair in October; visits to some of our Partner Universities and cities in the UK
Full details of all trips and activities are available during Induction, but an example programme is given below:
| Trips | Location | Dates |
|---|---|---|
| City Centre Tour | Nottingham | September 2011 |
| University and City Visit (Bath) | Bath | October 2011 |
| Bonfire Night - Fireworks Display | Nottingham | November 2011 |
| Lincoln Christmas Market | Lincoln | December 2011 |
| Christmas Party | College – Beeston Centre | December 2011 |
| Galleries of Justice/City Caves | Nottingham | January 2012 |
| Lunar New Year | College – Beeston Centre | February |
| Warwick Castle | Warwick | March 2012 |
| London | London | April 2012 |
| Stratford Upon Avon | Stratford Upon Avon | May 2012 |
| Summer Ball (NTU) | Nottingham | June 2012 |
