International Orientation

When is the international orientation event? 

Our International Orientation event will take place on Sunday 21st September. We encourage all international students to attend this event.

Who should attend this event? 

All international students, including study abroad and exchange students, starting their studies in September, should join the International Orientation event.

Why should I attend the International Orientation event? 

Joining the orientation event is a great way to start your new life in the UK, adjust to the university environment and meet new and current international students. Students who attend the orientation event experience fewer practical problems and have a smoother transition into their academic studies.

What will be covered at the International Orientation event? 

We will cover the following important topics:

• Introduction to the UK Higher Education system
• International Academic and Language Support
• How to open a UK bank account
• Introduction to the UK healthcare system
• Student Visa information
• How to access different support & wellbeing services at the university
• Social activities and much more…

Check out our online pre-departure sessions 

We have created short pre-departure sessions to help you prepare for your arrival in September. We’ll cover various important topics:

• Understanding Student Visa Rules
• Getting Ready for Working in the UK
• Life as an International Student: Live Q&A Session
• Getting Ready for Academic Study
• Travelling to Chichester and Bognor Regis
• Money Advice and UK bank accounts
• Healthcare in the UK

More information and booking instructions are available on our Be Prepared website.

How can I find out about the above topics in advance? 

You should visit our Be Prepared website. This online pre-arrival resource covers most aspects of getting ready for your life and studies in the UK.

When should I arrive? 

You should plan to arrive during the accommodation welcome weekend (see our accommodation website for information). You will receive a warm welcome from our Students Union and accommodation team!

Can I book an airport pick-up via the University? 

We do not offer an airport pick-up service, but you can find information about using public transport on our Be Prepared website. You can also attend our Be Prepared Webinar on this topic.

When will I start my studies? 

You will start your studies with your departmental induction week. To find your programme, please log into the Chiview portal or contact help@chi.ac.uk to request a copy of your programme. Programmes are available around the end of August.

What social activities are planned for international students during the induction week?

Our Orientation Programme, which includes a list of activities and events to help international students get to know the local area and make friends, will be available in the summer.

How do I book a place? 

Booking instructions are available on our Be Prepared website.

What if I can’t attend the International Orientation event?

We expect you to be in the UK for your induction week, which is a compulsory part of your studies. If you are delayed due to a visa or travel restriction-related reason, you should contact international@chi.ac.uk to seek authorisation for late arrival. Please note that late arrival is not an automatic right.

Can I access the Orientation event presentations after the event? 

We will post our International Orientation presentations on the Be Prepared website, so that you can access the information we cover. You can also arrange to meet with the International Student Advisers when you have arrived. Appointments are available via the Student Support Portal.