"Welcome to the website for students at the University of Portsmouth."
International and EU students
Tips on British Culture
Women
In the UK, women are considered equal to men. They are very independent and they are welcome to enter public places unaccompanied. Men and women mix freely and it is very common for them to form friendships.
Friendliness
British people are generally friendly, but it can take a while to develop close friendships. They are tolerant and willing to offer help when it is needed, so please do not be afraid to ask. Strangers will sometimes make unexpected jokes with you, this is normal in British culture. It might surprise you and seem personal but it is not meant to offend you.
Etiquette
British people are usually polite, especially to strangers. It is usual to say 'excuse me', 'please' and 'thank you'. For example, if someone holds a door open for you, always say 'thank you' to them. You should, in turn, also hold the door open for anyone approaching.
If the British have to wait for anything (like a bus or to be served in a shop), they form a queue. You should do the same. If you decide to ignore the queue, you may experience difficulties.
The British are usually punctual. If a lecture starts at 0900, this means you should arrive by 0900. You will be considered rude if you are late. The same applies to meetings and appointments. It is usual to be more flexible with social activities. If you arrange to meet someone in the evening, check with them whether you must be punctual (for example, going to the cinema to see a film at a specific time) or if the arrangement is more relaxed (a large group of friends arranging to meet in a cafe at '7pm'. This could mean between 6.45 and 7.15 pm).
There are some questions in the UK which many people may feel embarrassed to be asked. Avoid asking people their age or how much they earn.
Life at the University may appear to be very informal. It is appropriate for you to call lecturers and staff by their first names. You are not required to call them 'sir' or 'madam'.
Neighbours
The British take the responsibility to be good neighbours very seriously. When you move in, introduce yourself to your neighbours. This small step can go a long way in establishing a positive and friendly relationship. You may also find that your neighbours can provide you with useful local information, such as when your rubbish is collected and where the nearest bus stop is.
Try not to be too noisy. It is not always easy to be aware how much noise you are making or how easily noise travels between properties. Ask your neighbours to let you know if noise levels from your house disturb them. If you are having the occasional party inform your neighbours in advance and respond positively to any requests to lower the volume.
For more information, contact Student and Neighbour Liaison in our Student Housing department.
Other nationalities
The University of Portsmouth is an international university. There are nearly 3000 international students from over 100 different countries studying here. After registration, you will meet and work with students from many different nations with contrasting cultural backgrounds. They may occasionally wear their own style of dress, cook and eat different foods, socialise in ways unfamiliar to you and follow different religions.
Making friends with students from other countries will enhance your cultural awareness and help you to improve your global knowledge. You can take part in the social events arranged for international students or join our Mix and Match scheme.
More information on culture shock and advice videos can be found on UKCISA
