Starting at Portsmouth

    International students

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    Start your journey

    What to do when you arrive in the UK to put your best foot forward at university

    Coronavirus update

    If you arrive in the UK on or after 8 June 2020, you'll be subject to the UK government's self-isolation rules. Please see our coronavirus FAQs for prospective students for further details. 

    However far you have to travel to Portsmouth, we're here to make your arrival in the UK – and your first weeks as a student with us – as enjoyable and stress-free as possible.

    From advice and guidance on the things you should do before you arrive, to what to expect when you get here, we're here to help.

    What to do before you arrive and how to get here

    What to pack and preparing to travel

    Joining us soon? Find out what you'll need to pack for the trip – and what to leave at home.

    students talking and laughing together
    What to pack
    Getting insurance

    Find out what sort of insurance you need, when you need it, and why it's important to have it.

    student smiling past camera
    Insurance for international students
    Planning your finances

    Get some helpful advice on how to manage your money while you're living and studying in Portsmouth.

    parent helping student
    Planning your finances
    How to get here

    Whether you're arriving by plane, boat, car or train, discover all the information you need to make your way to Portsmouth.

    Portsmouth coast
    How to get here

    What to do when you arrive

    Your first weeks

    Find out what to expect in your first weeks, how to register for your course, and the welcome events you can attend.

    International students in first week at University of Portsmouth
    Your first week
    Moving in

    Whether you're living in our halls or private rented accommodation, we're on hand to help make moving in easier.

    International student moving boxes into accommodation at University of Portsmouth
    Moving into your accommodation
    Healthcare

    Find out how you can use the UK's free NHS services as an international student – and how to get private healthcare.

    Male University of Portsmouth student smiling
    Healthcare
    Your social life in Portsmouth

    Discover our upcoming social events for international students, and start exploring the city.

    International male University of Portsmouth student
    Social activities
    Opening a UK bank account

    Using a UK bank account is the safest way to manage your money – read our guidance on how to open an account.

    Teapots, University of Portsmouth
    Opening a bank account
    Working during your studies

    Find out more about the opportunities and restrictions around your right to work during your studies.

    Female University of Portsmouth student against bright blue wall
    Working during your studies
    Registering with the police

    If you've been asked to register with the police, get all the information you need on how and where to register.

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    Police registration

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