International Office

Frequently Asked Questions About Arrival/Orientation

I have decided to come to the University of Portsmouth. Who do I need to tell?

You need to follow these steps:

  1. Accept your offer by emailing eu.students@port.ac.uk (EU students) or internationaloffice.admissions@port.ac.uk (International students), or by contacting the local representative that you applied through in your country
  2. Return the Accommodation Booking Form to Student Housing   as soon as possible. You must also pay the GBP 250 accommodation deposit if you are applying for University Halls of Residence.

What is the deadline for applying for accommodation?

The deadline for applying for accommodation is Friday 2 August 2013 tbc (no deadline for January intake). Please note - we cannot guarantee a place in University Halls of Residence for January intake, although you will be sent an accommodation form as soon as you accept your course offer.  

Rooms will be allocated on a 'first come, first served' basis so the completed accommodation form and deposit of GBP 250 must be sent to Student Housing as soon as possible.

Is it compulsory for me to attend the Orientation Programme?

Yes. It is important for you to attend the Orientation Programme: the programme has been designed to help minimise culture shock and you will register onto your course during the programme. The programme also provides you with the opportunity to familiarise yourself with Portsmouth and the University, to meet staff who can assist you during your studies and meet other new international students. 

You will notice the term start date and the last date for registration on your offer letter.  Late arrival is not advised and will be detrimental to your studies. In all cases, you MUST seek authority from the University to arrive late. If your visa application has been delayed for reasons beyond your control, please contact the International Office or your agent IMMEDIATELY so that we can assess your situation. Please also email international.housing@port.ac.uk if you have been offered University accommodation to inform Student Housing of your late arrival.  They will then be able to advise you accordingly on your housing options.

Which documents should I carry in my hand luggage when travelling to the UK?

Please visit Preparing to travel

Can my parents accompany me to Portsmouth on the airport pickup service?

No. The airport pickup service is only for new students who have reserved a space in advance. Relatives and friends will have to use public transport.

If I do not use the pickup service, where should I go once I have arrived in Portsmouth?

If you arrive between the hours of 0830-1700 Monday to Thursday / 0830-1600 Friday , please go to the International Office on the First Floor of the Nuffield Centre, corner of St Michael's Road. The International Office staff will be there to give you a pack of important information and register your arrival. If you arrive outside of these hours, please follow the instructions at Arriving after opening hours.

Can my parents stay with me in my Hall of Residence?

No. Only students can stay in the Halls of Residence. Please arrange for anyone accompanying you to stay in a local hotel or B&B (Bed and Breakfast). To book a room in a local hotel, please refer to the Visitor Information Centre website.