International Students’ Getting Started Guide

September 2016Welcome to the University of Sussex from International Student Support

Information you will need about registration, induction, and social events taking place during your first week at Sussex.

Above: Sussex students enjoying the Holi event as part of the One World Week 2016 celebrations

Welcome to Sussex!

Congratulations on receiving a place at Sussex! International Student Support are delighted that you are soon going to be joining us and the team are really looking forward to meeting you.

Your first week at Sussex is known as ‘induction’ across the University, but is referred to as ‘Freshers Week’ by the Students’ Union. For those not familiar with the role of a Students’ Union, see page 4 of this guide for an explanation.

This week gives you a chance to settle into your new accommodation, familiarise yourself with the campus, make new friends and prepare for the start of your course. To help you feel settled and ‘at home’ as soon as possible, there are lots of social and academic orientation activities being organised for this period. Many different activities will be on offer during the week and it can be confusing and a bit overwhelming to know what to attend, so International Student Support have designed this ‘Getting Started Guide’ to highlight some of the key activities which students coming to Sussex from outside of the UK would most benefit from attending. In this guide we have divided all events, activities and talks into three categories, and each has been marked with one of the following symbols:

The full programme of what’s on offer across the entire University during induction week can be viewed through the Sussex Mobile App

As well as showing details of all the welcome events happening during this period, the app will also give you quick access to your email and class timetable.

Search for ‘SussexMobile’ - all one word - in the App Store (for iPhones) or Play Store (for Android). The web version of the app is also available atwww.sussex.ac.uk/mobile.

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Sara Dyer, Head of International Student Support

Finally, don’t forget to attend my ‘Welcome talk for new international students’ (date/time varies depending on whether you are an undergraduate, postgraduate, or Visiting and Exchange student), and the biggest event of the term, the ‘International Student Welcome Party’ at the wonderful Brighton Dome! You will find further details about both of these events in this guide.

I look forward to meeting you shortly!

(ISS) – offered by International Student Support(SU) – offered by the Students’ Union(UNI) – offered by the central University

The International Student Support team are here to make your transition to university life as easy as possible and to provide information and assistance to you throughout your time at Sussex. We know that sometimes international students have specific concerns and require different types of support, which we are here to offer.

We have three immigration advisers (Jo, James and Claudine) who can assist you with queries and problems relating to your visa, if you require one to study in the UK. They offer advice over the phone, by email and in person. For more informationabout how to contact an adviser, click here.

Other members of the team (Helen, Sarah, Nicola and Victoria) provide welcome and induction support to new students, organise social events and trips all over the UK (see pages 22-24 for the autumn term trips programme) and provide individual support and group information sessions on a range of issues for international students throughout the year. They also co-organise the annual One World Week celebrations which take place in March.

We are based in Bramber House, 2nd Floor, North End (the opposite end from the Co-operative shop).

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Who are International Student Support?

Finding us during Arrival Weekend and pick up your free welcome bag!

During Arrival Weekend (Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 September) we will be in our office in Bramber House between 10.00-18.00.

Please come and meet us and other new students and ask any questions you may have. There will be light refreshments available for you and your family and you will be able to pick up a free International Student Support welcome bag. During induction week (12-16 September) our office will be open between 09.00 – 17.00.From Monday 19 September, and for the remainder of the term, we’ll be open10.00 – 16.00. You can also contact us by:

Phone: +44 (0)1273 678422Website: www.sussex.ac.uk/internationalsupportEmail: immigration@sussex.ac.uk (for visa/immigration related questions)Email: international.support@sussex.ac.uk (for anything else)Facebook: /InternationalStudentSupportUniversityOfSussexTwitter: /USIntStudentSup

Above: The International Student Support team, from left to right, are: Helen Quin, Nicola Short, Sarah Cook, Sara Dyer, Joanne Chee, Claudine Grant and James Gordon (not pictured, Victoria Babatunde).

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International Student Support works closely with the Students’ Union (SU) at Sussex, and we would encourage international students to get as involved as possible with their SU as there are many great benefits.

Above: Your elected Students’ Union Officers 2016-17. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with them. You can find their contact details on the SU website and they are also on Facebook.

Who and what is the Students’ Union?

Freshers FairsThere will be TWO Freshers Fair dates this year; on Tuesday 13 September 11.00-15.00 you will be able to visit the Freshers Fair: Brighton Edition. Come down to Falmer House to sample the finest entertainment and opportunities from local pubs, clubs, and restaurants. Immerse yourself in the amazing opportunities made available to you by local charities and organisations. Pick up some freebies, meet some friendly faces, and explore the things you can do in your new seaside home. And…

…on Wednesday 14 September, 11.00-16.00, the popular Freshers’ Fair – Student Opportunities will be running outside Falmer House (Sports Centre incase of bad weather), and it’s here where you will see all of the student clubs and societies which are supported by the Students’ Union. Sign up to any which you like the look of!

The Students’ Union also runs the fantastic and very popular Buddy Scheme! New students are paired with current students, or ‘Buddy Volunteers’, who can provide a friendly face to help you settle into life at Sussex. You can get in touch with your buddy prior to arrival to ask any questions you may have before meeting them in person once you are here. The Buddy Scheme is open to all Sussex students.

As a new student you will be invited to a launch event in Freshers Week where you will be able to meet and mingle with other new students and Buddy Scheme volunteers. Visit the Buddy Scheme webpages for more information and how to apply.

The Students’ Union also runs the Language Café every Tuesday during term. The Language Café is a great opportunity to learn or practise a language with other students in an informal setting. It's a fun way of meeting other students from different cultural backgrounds and enhancing your language learning. Whether you are fluent or a beginner, everyone is welcome.

Right: The Freshers Fair – Student Opportunities

You may not have a Students’ Union in your home country, and for those of you not familiar with what a Students’ Union is and what it does, the University of Sussex Students’ Union provides a huge variety of services to help you get the most out of university life, such as sports, volunteering, societies, shops, bars, student media and events, and support and advocacy.

The Students' Union exists to represent your interests both within the University and wider community and to campaign on relevant local, national and international issues. It is a charitable organisation and its direction is democratically determined by its members... you, the University’s students. You can influence what the Students’ Union does by voting in their elections, providing feedback on their services by taking part in focus groups and panels and filling in their surveys.

You are automatically a member of the University of Sussex Students’ Union, just by being registered here!

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Arrival Information: Saturday 10 – Sunday 11 September

We know that many of you will have travelled hundreds (and, in some cases, thousands) of miles from all parts of the world to reach Sussex. Therefore, the University is providing various free transport services during Arrival Weekend to get you to your accommodation in the quickest and most comfortable way, so that you can start to unpack and feel settled as soon as possible.

From Heathrow airport At Heathrow airport we will be offering a free bookable coach service to Brighton during the main Arrival Weekend of 10-11 September 2016.

University of Sussex representatives wearing blue t-shirts and holding big lollipop signs will be there to welcome new international students to the UK, answer queries, and help students onto the free coaches or find their own way to Brighton by public transport.

Above right and right: International Student Helpers welcoming new students at Heathrow and Gatwick airports

Pre-booking for a seat on one of our free coaches from Heathrow is essential, so book your place now online by clicking here. Please be aware that luggage restrictions do apply so please read the information on the booking webpages carefully. Coaches will be departing from Heathrow at the following times:

Saturday 10 September: 08.30, 10.30, 11.00, 12.00, 15.00, 17.00, 18.00, 19.00

Saturday 10 September

From Gatwick airport There is no free coach service from Gatwick airport, however University of Sussex representatives wearing blue t-shirts will be there between 9.00-17.00 to welcome new international students to the UK, answer queries, and help students buy train tickets to make their own way to Brighton by public transport.

When you then arrive at Brighton Station, you will be able to take either a free minibus to campus (9.00-17.00), a free minibus to University-managed off campus accommodation (9.00-18.00), or if you are in private rented accommodation or arriving outside of these hours then we recommend you using a local taxi. There are many taxis available from Brighton station at all hours.

Due to a major football match at the Amex stadium (home to Brighton and Hove Albion and next to campus) taking place on the afternoon of Saturday 10 September, we do not advise new students to arrive on to campus via public transport between the hours of 13.00 – 15.00 and again between 16.30 – 18.00. Falmer is the nearest train station to campus, but trains to Falmer from all directions are likely to be extremely crowded with football spectators travelling to and from the match during those hours, and travelling with luggage is not advisable.

Therefore, the transport options available to you will be different depending on whether you are planning on arriving on Saturday 10 or Sunday 11 September. Please check the correct section below:

If you are taking a National Express coach from Heathrow, you should get off at the final stop in Brighton which is called ‘PoolValley’. We will have a student helper there between 09.00-17.00 and they will be able to help you with your onwards journey.

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From Brighton Station to off-campus accommodation Between 9.00-18.00, there will be two minibus services running between Brighton train station and the main off-campus residences:

- King’s Road- Abacus House- Imperial Hotel- Langfords Hotel- Bedford Hotel

From Brighton Station to campus accommodationDue to the football match at the nearby Amex stadium, those travelling by train to the campus on Saturday 10 September are advised to use the University’s free minibus service from Brighton Station. This will be running between 09.00 and 17.00on Saturday 10 September only. Student helpers will be waiting at Brighton Station to direct you to where the minibus is waiting.

Sunday 11 September

From Heathrow airport At Heathrow airport we will again be offering a free bookable coach service on Sunday 11 September.

University of Sussex representatives wearing blue t-shirts and holding big lollipop signs will be there to welcome new international students to the UK, answer queries, and help students onto the free coaches or find their own way to Brighton by public transport.

Pre-booking for a seat on one of our free coaches from Heathrow is essential, so book your place now online by clicking here. Please be aware that luggage restrictions do apply so please read the information on the booking webpages carefully. Coaches will be departing Heathrow at the following times:

Sunday 11 September: 10.00, 13.00, 17.00Above: International Student Helpers welcoming new students at Heathrow airport

From Gatwick airport There is no free coach service from Gatwick airport, however University of Sussex representatives wearing blue t-shirts will be there between 09.00-17.00 to welcome new international students to the UK, answer queries, and help students buy train tickets to make their own way to Brighton by public transport.

Those staying in Lewes at either the White Hart Hotel or Caburn should travel by train to Lewes station. This journey takes approximately 10 minutes from Brighton Station and usually departs from platform 8, though there will be student helpers wearing University of Sussex t-shirts at Brighton Station to assist you between 09.00-18.00.

Those living in any other University-managed accommodation should check the information provided to them by Housing Services for details about where to pick up their keys.

On Sunday 11 September some of the transport services will run slightly differently as there is no football match this day.

If you are taking a National Express coach from Heathrow, you should get off at the final stop in Brighton which is called ‘PoolValley’. We will have a student helper there between 09.00-17.00 and they will be able to help you with your onwards journey.

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There is lots more detailed information about travelling to Brighton and to Falmer from the major airports and sea ports, and how to get from central Brighton to the University of Sussex campus on the ‘Travelling to the University of Sussex’ section of the International Student Support webpages. If you are unsure about how to get to the campus, or to your off-campus accommodation, then please check these pages. For any further information, please email us.

Falmer Station (the closest station to campus) with the Amex stadium in the background

Brighton Station and Falmer station to campus

If you are planning to travel by train and arrive on campus on Sunday 11 September, then you should still arrive into FalmerStation, as this is the nearest and most convenient station to campus.

For most of you travelling by train to campus, your journey will require you to change trains at Brighton station. Trains to Falmerusually depart from Platform 8 and the journey takes just under ten minutes. If you arrive in to Lewes, then again you will need to change trains for the onwards journey to Falmer. Once you have arrived at Falmer Station there will be a minibus service between the station and each of the University residences. This is a free service and booking is not required.

Brighton Station to off-campus accommodation

Between 09.00-18.00, there will be two minibus services running between Brighton train station and the main off-campus residences:

- Kings Road- Abacus House- Imperial Hotel- Langfords Hotel- Bedford Hotel

Those staying in Lewes at either the White Hart Hotel or Caburn should travel by train to Lewes station. This journey takes approximately 10 minutes from Brighton Station and usually departs from platform 8, though there will be student helpers wearing University of Sussex t-shirts at Brighton Station to assist you between 09.00-18.00.

Those living in any other University-managed accommodation should check the information provided to them by Housing Services for details about where to pick up their keys.

The Falmer minibus service will be running between 09.00 – 17.00 on Sunday 11 September only. If you plan to arrive outside of these times we recommend taking a taxi from Brighton Station as there is no taxi rank at Falmer Station. If you have been allocated a room in Stanmer Court, this is beside Falmer Station and easily walkable from there, so there is no need to first come onto campus before checking into your accommodation.

Above right: ‘Crayon Houses’. An entry for the 2015 International Student Support photo competition by Elias Norrby. For details of this year’s competition, see page 21.

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If you will be arriving late

We recommend that all new students arrive during the main Arrival Weekend (10 – 11 September). However, we understand that sometimes this is not possible due to a delay in receiving your visa, or travel delays. If you will be arriving late for whatever reason, then don’t worry – we offer additional support to ensure that you can settle in quickly.

However, there are a few people you need to information about being late:

1. AdmissionsIf you are going to be studying at Sussex as an undergraduate student then you should email ug.applicants@sussex.ac.uk to inform the University that you are going to be arriving later than expected. Postgraduate students should email pg.applicants@sussex.ac.uk. When you email, please confirm your expected arrival date.

2. Housing ServicesIf you will be living in University-managed accommodation, either on campus or off campus, then you must inform the Housing Services team. Please contact them at housing@sussex.ac.uk, informing them of which date you are due to arrive and your flight details. If you don’t do this then they may assume that you are not coming at all, and you may lose your accommodation. Please note that some students who arrive late may need to be reallocated to alternative University-managed accommodation.

3. Academic SchoolIf you will be arriving after the start of your classes, then you should also contact your academic School of Study to let them know. A list of the Schools and their contact details can be found here.

4. RegistrationWhere possible, you are expected to start registration online before arriving at Sussex (see page 26 for more information) and then to complete this process at in-person registration once you have arrived (see page 27 for more information). There is a late registration penalty for those unable to register by the end of September.

If you know in advance that you will be unable to register by then, you should write to the Registration Officer, University of Sussex, Sussex House, Falmer, Brighton BN1 9RH, UK, who may be able to grant you exemption from the late registration penalty. You can register late at the Student Accounts office, in Sussex House. If you have not made special arrangements and do not register before the final deadline, you will be liable to pay a penalty of £50.

4. Visiting and Exchange studentsIf you are a Visiting or Exchange student and are going to arrive late then please email Sussex Abroad.

Induction for late arrivers

We know that it can sometimes be harder for those arriving late to settle in quickly, as many of the social events and information sessions designed to help you feel ‘at home’ will have passed. International Student Support will be offering a weekly induction session for those who have missed out on Arrival Weekend and Freshers’/Induction Week, on the following dates:

Wednesday 21 September, 1-2pm, Bramber House room 255Wednesday 28 September, 1-2pm, Bramber House room 255Wednesday 5 October ,1-2pm, Bramber House room 255

Come along to meet us and other new students over a cup of tea or coffee, receive useful information about starting at Sussex, and have the opportunity to ask any questions you may have.

Help with IT when you arrive

Getting your devices connected to the University Eduroam network is quite easy, but if you are experiencing difficulties then there is plenty of help on hand during Arrival Weekend onwards.

If you are living on campus, then you will find a ‘How to Connect: Getting online at Sussex’ dark green booklet in your room which provides step-by-step instructions on how to get your devices connected.

Those living on campus will also be able to plug your computer into the network connection in your room using the pink cable supplied by your residence. This will provide you with a faster connection.

Where can I get assistance with IT-related problems?

For help with anything related to IT then please visit the IT Services webpages here:

www.sussex.ac.uk/its/home

If you prefer to get in-person support from a member of the IT Services team then they are there to help you. Throughout most of the year, the IT Services Help Desk is located in ShawcrossBuilding. However, due to major refurbishment works they will be temporarily relocated until further notice. During Arrival Weekend there will be IT Services staff at the following locations:

Northfield Social Space – 12pm – 7pm (Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 only)

Lancaster Social Space – 12pm – 7pm

Saturday 10 September

(ISS) ‘Drop in’ to meet International Student Support: 10.00-18.00, Bramber House 202 (2nd Floor, North End) Come and meet staff and student helpers for a cup of tea or coffee, or to just say ‘hello’! We will be here to answer any questions you or your family may have, and will be providing lots of useful things for you to pick up such as maps of the local area, information handouts, free SIM cards, and we will be here to point you in the right direction for whatever you might need. We also have Skype facilities for you touse to let your family know that you have arrived safely.

(SU) Freshers ‘Free Shop’, 12.00-15.00 Debating Chamber, Falmer House

Come and pick up what you need for living on campus at our free shop. Pots and pans, cutlery, kitchen utensils, books and stationery - all available, all for free! Everything has been donated by students moving out of halls of residence and saved from going into landfill. Reduce our impact on the environment by reusing rather than buying new.

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You have arrived, you have phoned home to let family and friends know you have arrived here safely, and you might even have unpacked, so what now? Some students like to take a little time for themselves to readjust to their new surroundings or simply to have a rest to overcome any jetlag, but if you are ready to start exploring or meeting new friends, then here are some things you can take part in during Arrivals Weekend, before Induction Week (Freshers’ Week) starts on Monday.

Arrival Weekend: Saturday 10 – Sunday 11 September

Above: International Student Helper Crystal

(ISS) Bank account opening sessions with Barclays and Santander10.00-16.00, Barclays: Bramber House 230; Santander Bramber House 231For those who have all of the relevant documents ready to open a UK bank account, representatives from two of the major banks which have branches either on campus and/or in Brighton will be here on campus to help you get an account open quickly. Barclays will mostly be seeing people by appointment only, although if you have all documents ready then they might be able to see you. Santander will be operating on a drop-in basis. For further information please see page 26 of this guide, and: Opening a UK Bank Account: a guide for international students.

(ISS) (UNI) Hove Hotels Saturday Night Get Together!19.30-21.00, Imperial Hotel, First Ave, Hove, BN3 2GUFor all those living in one of the three University-managed Hove hotels (Imperial, Langfords, or Bedford), you are invited to a first night social event to meet other new students who will also be living in one of these three residences. This laid-back event takes place at Imperial Hotel, but students from all three residences are welcome. There will be free pizza and soft drinks!

For those in the mood for meeting new friends on campus, the Students’ Union are organising various events for this evening! To find out more about them and how you can purchase tickets, click here or download TheSussex Mobile App!

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Sunday 11 September

(ISS) ‘Drop in’ to meet International Student Support: 10.00-18.00, Bramber House 202 (2nd Floor, North End) Come and meet staff and student helpers for a cup of tea or coffee. We will be here to answer any questions you or your family may have, and will be providing lots of useful things for you to pick up such as maps, information handouts, free SIM cards, and we will be here to point you in the right direction of whatever you might need. We also have Skype facilities for you to use to let your family know that you have arrived safely.

(SU) Freshers ‘Free Shop’: 12.00-15.00 Debating Chamber, Falmer House

Come and pick up what you need for living on campus at our free shop. Pots and pans, cutlery, kitchen utensils, books and stationery - all available, all for free! Everything has been donated by students moving out of halls of residence and saved from going into landfill. Reduce our impact on the environment by reusing rather than buying new.

Arrival Weekend: Saturday 10 – Sunday 11 September

(UNI) Visiting and Exchange Students Welcome Event: 18:00-

20:00, Jubilee Cafe (Jubilee Building)

This is a free event for all new Visiting or Exchange students. Come and meet other new students and the Visiting and Exchange team whilst enjoying some free refreshments!

Top right: the North Laine shopping area of BrightonRight: Visiting and Exchange students getting to know each other at the Sunday welcome event

(ISS) Bank account opening sessions with Barclays and Santander10.00-16.00, Barclays: Bramber House 230; Santander Bramber House 231For those who have all of the relevant documents ready to open a UK bank account, representatives from two of the major banks which have branches either on campus and/or in Brighton will be here on campus to help you get an account open quickly. Barclays will mostly be seeing people by appointment only, although if you have all documents ready then they might be able to see you. Santander will be operating on a drop-in basis. For further information please see page 26 of this guide, and: Opening a UK Bank Account: a guide for international students.

(ISS) ‘Essentials’ Shopping Tour!

10.00 and 14.00, meet by the red mail box outside Bramber House/ Co-operative shop Our student helpers will show you how to get to Brighton city centre by using public buses, and once there they will take you on a tour of the many shopping areas of the city, highlighting some of the key shops of interest to international students. The student helpers will be happy to answer any questions you have about life as a Sussex student, and to share some valuable tips for living here from a student perspective. Free, just turn up, but remember to bring money for the bus (a ‘One Day Saver’ ticket purchased from the bus driver is about £5 at the time of publishing this guide). Once you have your student ID card you will be entitled to cheaper fares.

Induction week: day by day

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Monday 12 September

(ISS) Welcome talk: new undergraduate international students (NOT Visiting or Exchange):

09.00-10.00, Jubilee lecture theatre, Jubilee

Head of International Student Support, Sara Dyer,will be formally welcoming you to the University and providing some useful information. This will be followed by an ‘ask the student panel’ session during which you, the audience, can ask current students anything you want to know about life asa Sussex student.

Visiting and Exchange students and Postgraduatestudents have their own separate talks (on Tuesday and Thursday) so only undergraduates should attend this session.

(UNI) Registration/ID card collection: 10.00-15.00, Level 2 of Bramber House

Fully registered undergraduate (international) students who have uploaded their photo and DON’T require passport/visa copying can collect their Sussex ID card today. See pages 28.

(ISS) Bank account opening sessions with Barclays and Santander10.00-16.00, Barclays: Bramber House 230; Santander Bramber House 231For those who have all of the relevant documents ready to open a UK bank account, representatives from two of the major banks which have branches either on campus and/or in Brighton will be here on campus to help you get an account open quickly. Barclays will mostly be seeing people by appointment only, although if you have all documents ready then they might be able to see you. Santander will be operating on a drop-in basis. For further information please see page 26 of this guide, and: Opening a UK Bank Account: a guide for international students.

(SU) Freshers ‘Free Shop’, 12.00-15.00 Debating Chamber, Falmer House

Come and pick up what you need for living on campus at our free shop. Pots and pans, cutlery, kitchen utensils, books and stationery - all available, all for free! Everything has been donated by students moving out of halls of residence and saved from going into landfill. Reduce our impact on the environment by reusing rather than buying new.

(UNI) ‘Finding part-time work’: 13:00-13:30, Careers and Employability Centre seminar room, Library

An introduction to the Careers and Employability Centre resources that can help you to find part-time work and work experience opportunities whilst you study, including access to a database of part-time jobs, including jobs on campus, and ways to discover internships and work experience in the local area. Repeated on Tuesday.

Every day of induction/Freshers week:(UNI) Library tour: leaving every half hour between 10.30 – 15.00, meet at the Open Learning Space in the Library

(UNI) Campus tour: 12.00 – 13.00, meet outside Bramber House near the red mail box.

(SU) Students’ Union Welcome Hub: 10.00 – 17.00, Library Square

Throughout the week swing by our Welcome Hub for activities and events plus information about Freshers Week. Have all your Freshers’ queries answered by our team of friendly faces and meet the Students' Union Elected Officers.

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Tuesday 13 September

(SU) Students’ Union Freshers Fair –Brighton and Beyond: 11:00-15:00, Falmer House

The first of two Freshers Fairs! Come down to Falmer House to find out about some of the awesome things Brighton has to offer. With tonnes of giveaways available this is a great opportunity to get something for nothing. Most importantly of all Dominos will be giving out FREE pizza to all attendees! Pizza, freebies, music and a comprehensive show of the UK's finest, clubs, pubs, barbers, theatres, restaurants, shops, charities, and festivals. Most definitely not one to miss.

(UNI) ‘Finding part-time work’: 12:00-12:30, Careers and Employability Centre seminar room, Library

An introduction to the Careers and Employability Centre resources that can help you to find part-time work and work experience opportunities whilst you study, including access to a database of part-time jobs, including jobs on campus, and ways to discover internships and work experience in the local area. Repeated on Thursday.

(UNI) Registration/ID card collection: 10.00 - 15.00, Level 2 of Bramber HouseFully registered undergraduate (international) students who have uploaded their photo and DON’T require passport/visa copying can collect their Sussex ID card. See pages 28 for details.

(ISS) Welcome talk for Visiting and Exchange students:

12.00–13.00, Jubilee Lecture Theatre, Jubilee

Head of International Student Support, Sara Dyer, will be formally welcoming you to the University and providing some useful information. This will be followed by an ‘ask the student panel’ session during which you, the audience, can ask current students anything you want to know about life as a Sussex student. Your academic induction will then follow.

(ISS) Visiting and Exchange students academic induction:

13.00-14.00, Jubilee Lecture theatre, Jubilee

An academic induction session specifically designed for our visiting and exchange students.

(ISS) Bank account opening sessions with Barclays and Santander10.00-16.00, Barclays: Bramber House 230; Santander Bramber House 231For those who have all of the relevant documents ready to open a UK bank account, representatives from two of the major banks which have branches either on campus and/or in Brighton will be here on campus to help you get an account open quickly. Barclays will mostly be seeing people by appointment only, although if you have all documents ready then they might be able to see you. Santander will be operating on a drop-in basis. For further information please see page 26 of this guide, and: Opening a UK Bank Account: a guide for international students.

(UNI) School talks for Visiting and Exchange students: Afternoon, various times and locationsWelcome talks from each individual academic School take place this afternoon for Visiting and Exchange students. Times and locations vary depending on which School you are assigned to, so please check your induction timetable. You will also receive an email from Sussex Abroad with this information.

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Every day of induction/Freshers week:(UNI) Library tour: leaving every half hour between 10.30 – 15.00, meet at the Open Learning Space in the Library

(UNI) Campus tour: 12.00 – 13.00, meet outside Bramber House near the red mail box.

(SU) Students’ Union Welcome Hub: 10.00 – 17.00, Library Square

Throughout the week swing by our Welcome Hub for activities and events plus information about Freshers Week. Have all your Freshers’ queries answered by our team of friendly faces and meet the Students' Union Elected Officers.

(SU) and (ISS) ‘Students’ Union Global Party’:

18.00-21.00, Mandela Hall (upstairs in Falmer House) FREE!

In collaboration with the International Student Support team, the Global Party is a great chance to meet people from all over the world who have chosen to study at Sussex. Featuring showcases from a number of student groups, societies and activities, grab your friends and learn more about the diverse and exciting community at Sussex. Get involved with some of the games throughout the night, experience a ceilidh (a type of Irish dance) hosted by our very own Irish Society, and learn more about the "One World Sussex" programme of fantastic events taking place across the year.

Above: students enjoy the Holi spring festival as part of One World Week 2016. One World Week takes place in March each year. You can find out more about this at the Global Party.

(UNI) ‘Settling in at Sussex’: 16.00-17.00, Jubilee lecture theatre, Jubilee

This session is recommended if you are living away from home for the first time. Our staff will offer useful advice on settling in, including how to register with a doctor and dentist, budgeting, and advice on travelling in and around Brighton. Repeated on Friday.

UNI) ‘International students – Plan ahead and get your career off to a flying start’: 15.30-16.30, Careers and Employability Centre seminar room (in the Library) Open to all international students, this session will cover advice and information on how you can develop your skills and experience whilst studying and enrich your CV. The session will also cover getting involved with societies, voluntary work and other extra-curricular activities. You will learn about work options on offer to you whilst you’re a student and after graduation. It’s never too early to think about your options after Sussex, so you will hear how to start planning ahead. In addition, you’ll hear more about the range of advice and support available to you from the Careers & Employability Centre, Skills Hub and the Sussex Centre for Language Studies. Repeated on Thursday.

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Wednesday 14 September

(UNI) ‘Study in the UK’: 13.00-14.00, Chichester lecture theatre, Chichester

This session will be of particular interest to students new to the UK, with an overview of the UK academic culture, includingadvice on studying and how your lecturers will expect you to engage. Repeated on Thursday.

(SU) Students’ Union Freshers Fair: Activities and Opportunities11.00-16.00, good weather - outside Falmer House; bad weather - Sports Centre

Thinking about joining a sports club or society? Fancy seeing how you can get involved during your time at Sussex? Freshers Fair showcases the vast array of opportunities available to you with over 250 student groups & services and will definitely be a highlight of your Freshers Week. Have a chat with like-minded students, grab some freebies and perhaps you’ll stumble across a new-foundinterest! For an idea of the Sussex student societies which currently exist, visit: www.sussexstudent.com/societies.

The Students’ Union is committed to considering the needs and interests of people with access requirements when planning events, therefore the fair will be open from 11.00 for those who wish to visit the fair in a quieter and less crowded environment. Additionally, if you are not confident in your English speaking skills you are also welcome to attend the fair during this time. The fair is then open to everyone from 12.00.

Right: the Students’ Union Freshers Fair: Activities and Opportunities

(UNI) Registration/ID card collection: 09.15 - 16.30, Level 2 of Bramber House

ID card collection for undergraduate students who have completed registration online, AND the opportunity for those who have not completed registration online to finish any additional stages such as having your passport copied. See page 28 for details.

Every day of induction/Freshers week:

(UNI) Library tour: leaving every half hour between 10.30 – 15.00, meet at the Open Learning Space in the Library

(UNI) Campus tour: 12.00 – 13.00, meet outside Bramber House near the red post box.

(SU) Students’ Union Welcome Hub: 10.00 – 17.00, Library Square

Throughout the week swing by our Welcome Hub for activities and events plus information about Freshers Week. Have all your Freshers queries answered by our team of friendly faces and meet the Students' Union Elected Officers.

(ISS) Bank account opening sessions with Barclays and Santander10.00-16.00, Barclays: Bramber House 230; Santander Bramber House 231For those who have all of the relevant documents ready to open a UK bank account, representatives from two of the major banks which have branches either on campus and/or in Brighton will be here on campus to help you get an account open quickly. Barclays will mostly be seeing people by appointment only, although if you have all documents ready then they might be able to see you. Santander will be operating on a drop-in basis. For further information please see page 26 of this guide, and: Opening a UK Bank Account: a guide for international students.

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UNI) ‘International students – Plan ahead and get your career off to a flying start’: 11.30-12.30, Careers and Employability Centre seminar room (in the Library) Open to all international students, this session will cover advice and information on how you can develop your skills and experience whilst studying and enrich your CV. The session will also cover getting involved with societies, voluntary work and other extra-curricular activities. You will learn about work options on offer to you whilst you’re a student and after graduation. It’s never too early to think about your options after Sussex, so you will hear how to start planning ahead. In addition, you’ll hear more about the range of advice and support available to you from the Careers & Employability Centre, Skills Hub and the Sussex Centre for Language Studies.

(UNI) ‘Study in the UK’: 12.00-13.00, Fulton A lecture theatre

This session will be of particular interest to students new to the UK, with an overview of the UK academic culture, including advice on studying and how your lecturers will expect you to engage.

(UNI) ‘Finding part-time work’: 14:00-14:30, Careers and Employability Centre seminar room, Library

An introduction to the Careers and Employability Centre resources that can help you to find part-time work and work experience opportunities whilst you study, including access to a database of part-time jobs, including jobs on campus, and ways to discover internships and work experience in the local area.

Thursday 15 September (UNI) Registration/ID card collection: 09.15 - 16.30, Level 2 of Bramber House

ID card collection for undergraduate and postgraduate students who have completed registration online, AND the opportunity for those who have not completed registration online to finish any additional stages such as having your passport copied. See page 28 for details.

Every day of induction/Freshers week:(UNI) Library tour: leaving every half hour between 10.30 – 15.00, meet at the Open Learning Space in the Library

(UNI) Campus tour: 12.00 – 13.00, meet outside Bramber House near the red mail box.

(SU) Students’ Union Welcome Hub: 10.00 – 17.00, Library Square

Throughout the week swing by our Welcome Hub for activities and events plus information about Freshers Week. Have all your Freshers’ queries answered by our team of friendly faces and meet the Students' Union Elected Officers.

(ISS) Bank account opening sessions with Barclays and Santander10.00-16.00, Barclays: Bramber House 230; Santander Bramber House 231For those who have all of the relevant documents ready to open a UK bank account, representatives from two of the major banks which have branches either on campus and/or in Brighton will be here on campus to help you get an account open quickly. Barclays will mostly be seeing people by appointment only, although if you have all documents ready then they might be able to see you. Santander will be operating on a drop-in basis. For further information please see page 26 of this guide, and: Opening a UK Bank Account: a guide for international students.

(ISS) Welcome talk: new postgraduate international students (NOT Undergraduate, or Visiting or Exchange):4.15-5.15pm, Jubilee lecture theatre, Jubilee

Head of International Student Support, Sara Dyer, will be formally welcoming you to the University and providing some useful information. This will be followed by an ‘ask the student panel’ session during which you, the audience, can ask current students anything you want to know about life as a Sussex student. Undergraduates and Visiting and Exchange students have their own talks earlier in the week, so this is for Postgraduate (taught and research) students only.

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Right: ‘Because Baby you are Fireworks!’ by Priliantina Brebasari. Photo submitted as part of the International Student Support photo competition 2015. For details of this year’s competition, go to page 21 of this guide.

Friday 16 September

(SU) & (UNI) Fireworks to celebrate the new academic year: 18.00–20.00, Outside Falmer House and the Attenborough Centre for the Creative Arts FREE event!

Finish your first week at Sussex with a bang, at the University’s annual firework display. Join us at Falmer House to mark the end of your first unforgettable week with delicious food, drinks and entertainment till late!

(SU) Students’ Union Buddy Scheme Welcome Party: 18.00-20.00, Mandela Hall (Falmer House) FREE event!

The Buddy Scheme is a peer to peer support scheme co-ordinated by the Students’ Union that helps new students settle in to life at University and Brighton. The Buddy Scheme matches current Sussex students (Buddy Volunteers) with new incoming students according to their preferences, such as interests, course and language. The Buddy Volunteer will meet up with their matched buddies for at least one hour a week. It is a flexible, informal scheme so it is up to buddies where they meet and what they do.

This is the first Buddy Scheme social event of the year and it is a great chance to hang out with your buddy, or arrange to meet them for the first time at our meeting point. If you are not on the scheme, come along to find out more and sign up!

(UNI) Registration/ID card collection: 09.15 - 16.30, Level 2 of Bramber House

ID card collection for undergraduate and postgraduate students who have completed registration online, AND the opportunity for those who have not completed registration online to finish any additional stages such as having your passport copied. See pages 28 for details.

(UNI) ‘Settling in at Sussex’: 14.00-15.00, Chichester lecture theatreThis session is recommended if you are living away from home for the first time. Our staff will offer useful advice on settling in, including how to register with a doctor and dentist, budgeting, and advice on travelling in and around Brighton.

Every day of induction/Freshers week:(UNI) Library tour: leaving every half hour between 10.30 – 15.00, meet at the Open Learning Space in the Library

(UNI) Campus tour: 12.00 – 13.00, meet outside Bramber House near the red mail box.

(SU) Students’ Union Welcome Hub: 10.00 – 17.00, Library Square

Throughout the week swing by our Welcome Hub for activities and events plus information about Freshers Week. Have all your Freshers’ queries answered by our team of friendly faces and meet the Students' Union Elected Officers.

(ISS) Bank account opening sessions with Barclays and Santander10.00-16.00, Barclays: Bramber House 230; Santander Bramber House 231For those who have all of the relevant documents ready to open a UK bank account, representatives from two of the major banks which have branches either on campus and/or in Brighton will be here on campus to help you get an account open quickly. Barclays will mostly be seeing people by appointment only, although if you have all documents ready then they might be able to see you. Santander will be operating on a drop-in basis. For further information please see page 26 of this guide, and: Opening a UK Bank Account: a guide for international students.

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Saturday 17 September

(ISS) London day trip: depart 08.15 from Sussex House bus stop. Arrive back approximately 19.30

A day-long trip which includes a guided sightseeing tour of some of the main landmarks and attractions of our wonderful capital city with our experienced guide Glenda. This trip is designed to be an introduction to a city which we have no doubt you will visit again and again during your time as a Sussex student. There will be free time to explore London in the afternoon.

Tickets are £20 and are available through the online shop from 13.00 on 1 September.

(ISS) IKEA trip: Depart 11.00 from Sussex House bus stop. Arrive back approx. 17.30This trip is for new international students who want to equip themselves with household items they may need for their new accommodation here in the UK. This will help you save space when packing for your flight. For those of you unfamiliar with IKEA, go to their website to find our what they sell: www.ikea.com/gb/en/.

No large furniture may be brought back on the coach, so this trip is for the purchase of smaller items only such as bedding, storage boxes, lamps, stationery, notice boards, cushions, blankets, bathroom accessories, kitchen utensils etc., and prints for the walls.

Tickets (for return travel by coach) cost £7 and are available through the Online Shop from 13.00 on 1 September.

Left: ‘Breathtaking first sunset in London’ by Olivia Edwards. This photo was submitted as part of the International Student Support photo competition 2014. For details of this year’s competition, go to page 21.

Right: The iconic Big Ben and London Underground sign

Sunday 18 September

________________________________________________________Monday 19 September

Teaching beginsMake sure you have checked your timetable and other important course information by logging on to Sussex Direct here.

________________________________________________________

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Sunday 25 September

(ISS) International Students’ Welcome Party:

19.00 – 21.30, Brighton Dome, Church Street, Brighton To celebrate the start of your studies at Sussex, we invite you to join theUniversity’s new Vice-Chancellor, Professor Adam Tickell, the Mayor of Brighton and Hove, and other guests at this special welcome to the UK at the historic Brighton Dome venue in the city centre!

There will be free drinks and food, and live music will be provided by Latin American band, ‘Son Guarachando’, so don’t forget your dancing shoes!

Above, top left and top right: International students enjoying the International Students’ Welcome Party in previous years

Entry is free but by ticket only!

From Monday 12 September you can come and collect your FREE ticket from International Student Support in Bramber House.

Tickets are subject to availability and please note that numbers are strictly limited due to venue capacity so we recommend that you come and collect one early to avoid disappointment!

Free transport will be available from campus to the event and back to campus afterwards

Shopping: the essentials

Brighton is truly a great place for shopping. The city offers loads of small ‘boutique’ and independent shops in the famous Lanes, as well as many of the larger high street chain stores that you will also find in other UK cities.

A full guide to the best places for students to shop (including specialist food stores) can be found on our webpages here. However, to get you started below are some tips about where you can buy the essentials at student-friendly prices during your first few days here at Sussex.

On campus

Co-operative supermarket – This is the main grocery store on campus and is based on the ground floor of Bramber House and sells fresh and frozen foods, toiletries and household products. It is open every day from 07:00-23:00 and NUS Extra (National Union of Students) cardholders get a 10% discount. There is also a Post Office at the back of the shop.

Tuesday market – Every Tuesday of term there is a great market run by the Students’ Union. Local traders have stalls selling books, food, and clothes outside Falmer House in the quad from 10.00-16.00. The fresh fruit and vegetables are particularly good value.

Union Shop – Located in Falmer House, the Union Shop sells hot and cold drinks, Real Patisserie pastries and artisan breads, sandwiches/bagels, stationery, confectionery, off-licence from 5pm, greetings cards, Sussex souvenirs, Sussex branded clothing, computer accessories, household cupboard essentials and discounted bus tickets. They also sell UK plug adaptors. Open during term time 08.00-22.00 (Monday-Friday only).

Off campus

A comprehensive guide to shopping in Brighton can be found on our webpages here. If you would like to be introduced to some of the best shops for students by our fantastic student guides, then don’t forget to attend our free ‘Essentials ShoppingTour’ on Sunday 11 September. We will be visiting ‘cheap and

cheerful’ shops for buying essentials such as clothing, homewaresand food, all on more of a budget. Our guides will also introduceyou to the best place to find more unusual ingredients from

across the globe. You will be taking public transport into Brighton,so please make sure you have some cash on you. £5 will coverany ticket you might need for the whole day. See page 11 of this

guide for further details. 20

Chemist (Pharmacy) – Located on campus next to the University Health Centre. For prescriptions, cosmetics, medicines. Open 09.00-17.30 (Monday-Friday only) during term time.

John Smith Bookshop – Academic and general interest books, cards, stationery, computer consumables and other related products. Located in the Library and open 09.00-17.00 (Monday-Friday only).

ATM cash machines – Located outside Barclays Bank/ Sussex House, and in York House.

The Tuesday Market on campus

International students arriving at Sussex this September are invited to enter International Student Support’s annual photography competition!

The theme is ‘First impressions of the UK’, which offers students an opportunity to express their experiences of being new to the UK through the medium of photography.

We are looking for some creative and original responses to the theme, so pick up your camera and get snapping! Visit our website for rules and how to enter.

Photography Competition: ‘First impressions of the UK’

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Clockwise from top left: Gloria Ballarotto 'Sunset over the carousel'; 1st Place Winner Takron Opassuwan, 'Brighton in

the evening; 2nd Place Ning Hsieh, 'Inverted image'; 3rd place Md Mahmudul Hoque, 'Land of diversity, land of joy and

festivals'; Samantha Prather, 'There is a beautiful golden light here’.

1st Prize: £50 Amazon voucher

2nd Prize: a £30 Amazon voucher

3rd Prize: a £20 Amazon voucher

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The International Student Support team organises a programme of trips throughout the academic year to give international students the opportunity to see different parts of the UK at student-friendly prices!Tickets are limited and usually sell out very quickly as our trips are extremely popular. Tickets for autumn term trips will go on sale at 13.00 on Monday 26 September

Saturday 1 October: Sussex Countryside Tour - £18A tour of the local countryside including the beautiful coastline and the South Downs National Park in the comfort of our private coach. Our experienced local guide, Glenda, will be sharing her knowledge at each of the stops, which include the cobbled streets of Rottingdean, the dramatic cliffs of Beachy Head and the Seven Sisters, Eastbourne and Pevensey Castle, before finishing at the typically English village of Alfriston. Ticket price includes: travel by coach and specialist tour guide. Tickets can be purchased herefrom 13.00 on Monday 26 September.

Sunday 9 October: Stonehenge and Bath - £46This is one of our most popular day trips. We make an early start and head straight to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Stonehenge. We then continue on to the ancient Roman city of Bath with its gorgeous Georgian architecture, Roman ruins and Jane Austen streets. You will have free time for lunch and shopping before we explore the Roman Baths as a group. Ticket price includes: return travel by coach, entry to Stonehenge and Roman Baths. Tickets can be purchased herefrom 13.00 on Monday 26 September.

Top right: Sussex Students at Beachy Head, one of the stops on the Sussex countryside tour

Autumn term trips and events

How to buy tickets:

• Tickets for most trips can be purchased through our Online Shop here: • When you are on the site, select ‘Product Catalogue’ > ‘Trips and Activities’ > ‘International Student Support’.

Trips won’t appear online until the date and time they go on sale.

All trip tickets are non-refundable. For full terms and conditions of trip tickets please see our ‘Trips 2016’ section on our webpages.

Thursday 6 October: ‘The Dark Side of Brighton’, a night-time walking tour of Brighton - £6An after-dark walk featuring some of the shadowy alleyways and gruesome tales of Brighton’s murky past led by a qualified professional guide. Go on the trail of smugglers, murderers, monks, martyrs, the Ghost Ship, and Jack the Ripper. Hear intriguing stories about bizarre happenings and strange characters, as we explore the back streets, ancient churchyards and other spooky sites, finishing in The Lanes. Tour lasts 90 minutes. Ticket price includes: walking tour (transport to and from Brighton city centre is not included). Tickets can be purchased here from 13.00 on Monday 26 September.

Above: Stonehenge. Photograph by Malcolm Tam

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Wednesday 19 October: ‘Wicked’ – a trip to the West End show – £33In The Wizard of Oz we hear the story from Dorothy’s perspective, but Wicked gives a voice to the witches. This is the untold story of an unlikely but profound friendship between two girls who first meet as sorcery students at ShizUniversity: the blonde and very popular Glinda and a misunderstood green girl named Elphaba. Please note that the coach departs campus at 15:00 to allow time for traffic during London’s rush hour. There will also be time before the show to buy some food for dinner. Ticket price includes: return travel by coach and theatre ticket. Tickets can be purchased here from 13.00 on Monday 26 September.

Sunday 30 October: The Making of Harry Potter Warner Bros. Studio Tour (trip 1) – special Buddy Scheme price appliesMany of the most famous sets from the Harry Potter series of films have been recreated for visitors to experience including

(amongst many others) Dumbledore’s office, the Great Hall, the Ministry of Magic and even the Weasley family kitchen. Hundreds of props and original costumes are also on display, making this a truly fantastic day out for any Potter fan. Ticket price includes: return travel by coach; entry to the Warner Bros. Studio Tour. This trip is only open to those signed up to the Buddy Scheme. Another Harry Potter trip is running on Saturday 26 November and this will be open to all students (see below). Tickets for this trip can be purchased here.

Saturday 6 November: Stonehenge and Bath - £46A second chance to get a ticket for this popular trip. This is one of our most popular day trips. We make an early start and head straight to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Stonehenge. We then continue on to the ancient Roman city of Bath with its gorgeous Georgian architecture, Roman ruins and Jane Austen streets. You will have free time for lunch and shopping before we explore the Roman Baths as a group. Ticket price includes: return travel by coach, entry to Stonehenge and Roman Baths. Tickets can be purchased here from 13.00 on Monday 26 September.

Wednesday 26 October (afternoon): Guided walking tour of Lewes - £6 A guided walk around one of England's most attractive county towns reveals a dramatic history, from the ruins of the twelfth century castle and the Tudor Anne of Cleves house to the modern day Crown Court, where many famous murder trials have taken place. Hear about the Bonfire Boys, the burnings at the stake in the 16th century, the medieval merchants, radical Tom Paine, novelist Virginia Woolf and other notable residents. We walk along the passages and the narrow alleyways (‘twittens’), see the beautiful gardens and wind our way down to the river, with lots of stops along the way. Ticket price includes: guided walk and group train ticket. Tickets can be purchased here from 13.00 on Monday 26 September.

Wednesday 12 October (afternoon): i360 - £11Join the Buddy Scheme and International Student Support’svoyage to the skies on the world’s tallest moving observation tower, the British Airways i360! The fully enclosed glass viewing pod is 10 times the size of a London Eye capsule with room for up to 200 visitors to stand at the edge of the pod and look out.

Glide up to 450 feet and take in views of Brighton & Hove, Sussex, the coastline and the South Downs. The pod is fully accessible for wheelchair users. We will meet 45 minutes before our scheduled ‘flight’ time so it gives us plenty of time togo through security and purchase a drink if required. The ‘flight’ takes 30 minutes and your visit will last approximately 1 hour.Ticket price includes, ticket for i360. Tickets can be purchased here from Monday 19 September.

Top right: the i360; Top left; beautiful Lewes; Above right; Sussex students trying on a sorting hat at The Making of Harry Potter

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Student familiesStudent families (a student and their partner who is living with them, and/or their children) are welcome to attend our trips together. However, the Online Shop only allows students to purchase a maximum of one ticket per trip.

Therefore, a limited number of tickets for the autumn term trips have been allocated for students who would like to bring their families. These will be available between Monday 19 – Friday 23 September, ahead of the online sales and will need to be purchased in cash in person from the International Student Support Office in Bramber House.

Above: Sussex student families attending one of the trips

Above right: Sussex students trying on the Sorting Hat at the Warner Bros. Studio Tour

Saturday 26 November: The Making of Harry Potter (Warner Bros. Studio Tour) – trip 2- £49This Harry Potter trip is open to all. Many of the most famous sets from the Harry Potter series of films have been recreated for visitors to experience including (amongst many others) Dumbledore’s office, the Great Hall, the Ministry of Magic and even the Weasley family kitchen. Hundreds of props and original costumes are also on display, making this a truly fantastic day out for any Potter fan. Ticket price includes: return travel by coach; entry to the Warner Bros. Studio Tour. Tickets can be purchased here from 13.00 on Monday 26 September.

Wednesday 16 November: ‘The Lion King’ (the West End show) - £41In partnership with the Buddy Scheme, International Student Support offers you a trip to ‘The Lion King’! With some of the most impressive costumes and most popular songs of all West End musicals, this show is not one to be missed! We have some great seats in the stalls so come and take advantage of our reduced group rates. Ticket price includes: return travel by coach and theatre ticket. Departing campus at 3pm and returning at approximately midnight. Tickets can be purchased here from 13.00 on Monday 26 September.

Saturday 12 November: Oxford - £32By far one of the most beautiful and historically interesting cities in the UK, Oxford offers visitors a wonderful day out. You will enjoy a guided walking tour around the city and its lovely University colleges with a team of local knowledgeable guides, before free time to explore the city for yourself. Ticket price includes: return travel by coach, a guided walking tour of the city, and entry to Christ Church College. Tickets can be purchased here from 13.00 on Monday 26 September.

International Student Experience:University of Sussex research project

Click here to take part in the project!

The University of Sussex are running an important study to investigate aspects of life for international students during their time at Sussex, such as friendships, studying, and engaging with UK culture.

At International Study Support, we are really interested in this study and would therefore like to encourage our new international and EU students to participate. It’s very quick and easy to get involved! Click on the link at the bottom of this page to take part in a 15 minute anonymous online survey, and everyone who participates will automatically be in with a chance to win

- one prize of £150 of shopping vouchers

- two prizes of £50 of shopping vouchers

You will then be contacted later in the year to complete two further short surveys, and again, you could be in with a chance to win big prizes!

One of the first things which many international students want to do once they have arrived at Sussex is open a UK bank account. Opening a bank account in the UK can seem confusing as there any many options available to you, but International Student Support can provide information and advice to help you. We can also provide you with a University letter needed to open a UK bank account, if you need one. Below are our key tips for how to open a bank account easily:

Opening a bank account

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1. Get organised!

Do your research about which bank you wish to open an account with as early as possible and identify which documents they require from you.

Take a look at ‘Opening a UK Bank Account: a guide for international students’. This guide has been produced by International Student Support with you in mind! It outlines some of the accounts which are offered by banks which have branches in Brighton.

The guide also explains which documents you will need to show depending on which bank you choose as these vary from bank to bank.

Details of accounts available to international students vary depending on the bank you choose. This guide provides a summary of the features of each account, and also some of the restrictions which you should also be aware of before applying.

3. Meet with the banks on campus

From 10 – 16 September 2016, representatives from Barclays Bank and Santander will be on campus and offering account opening sessions for new international students. This offersa good way to beat the queues at the local branches of these banks.

Barclays will only see those students who have started the process of opening an account online at www.barclays.co.uk/student as you will need your application reference number (which is generated online) in order to continue. You can start this process any time.

Barclays will be based in Bramber House room 230 on Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 September, and in Bramber House room 232 during induction week. Please bring all required documents when you come.

Santander will see students on a drop-in basis, so no appointment is needed. They will be based in Bramber House foyer on Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 September, and in Bramber House room 231 during induction week. Please bring all required documents when you come.

2. Request your ‘University letter needed to open a UK bank account’ early

All banks except Santander require this document, so request online before you even arrive at Sussex! You will need your Sussex login details to do this, however, so you will have to wait until you have received these from the University in late August. You personal information on Sussex Direct (including new UK address and overseas home address) must be up to date in order for us to produce this letter. You will then be able to collect your letter from International Student Support when you arrive.

Registration is the formal process of becoming a member of the University, enabling you to attend lectures, receive tuition, sit examinations, register with the Library and other facilities, and be a member of the Students' Union. It is primarily a financial process for paying fees and other charges; it is not where you sign up for classes.

Before starting at Sussex you will be sent a registration email asking you to begin the process of registering online via the University of Sussex Online Registration System, which you will be able to access from 1 September. In order to start registration online you will need the following:

• Your candidate number (you will find this on the registration email)

• Pen and paper or other means to accurately record your Username and Password

• Payment details for fees and/or rent. You can pay fees and rent in full by credit card or debit card or in instalments

• Contact details for next of kin (someone you nominate to be contacted in case of an emergency)

If you have entered the UK on a Tier 4 Student Visa or have any other type of visa, then there will be a part of registrationwhich you won’t be able to complete from home and this involves having your passport and visa copied. The University is required to take a copy of these documents for our records and you will therefore need to attend a passport copying session in person as a condition of your registration at Sussex. If you obtain a new visa at any time during your studies you will alsoneed to have this copied by us. For information on collecting your visa/BRP once here at Sussex, please visit this webpage.

You will not be able to collect your student ID card until you have had these documents copied, paid outstanding fees, and provided a photo.

You will need to bring the following original documents to a passport copying session at in-person registration:

1. Your passport2. Your visa, leave stamps in your passport, or immigration status document showing your permission to stay in the UK3. Your biometric identity card (if you have one)

If you do not have your passport and/or visa because you have recently made an immigration application, then you must bring evidence of this:

• Cover sheet from the online visa application showing submission date• Copy of your most recent visa so we can see you made the application before your visa expiry date• Any UKVI correspondence you have received.

Starting registration online…

Top right: The Sussex Direct website where you sign in to register

Below: A Sussex ID card which you will be able to collect after completing registration

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If you will require a letter from the University to open a UK bank account, then you must complete the personal information section of Sussex Direct accurately and fully. This includes a full UK term time address and your full overseas home address.

In person registration takes place on Level Two of Bramber House from Monday 12 September. This is where you can finish any sections of your registration which you have not yet completed, if you still need to pay fees then please do this through Sussex Direct or in person at Student Accounts in Sussex House. Once you are fully registered, you can collect your Sussex student ID card from Bramber House.

If you have completed every section of the online registration through Sussex Direct then you may only need to collect your Sussex ID card. However, many international students will also need to collect a Biometrics Residence Permit (BRP) and have both this and their passport copied. Please attend the designated sessions on Level Two of Bramber House.

When can I attend in-person registration?Monday 12 September 10:00-15:00: Fully registered undergraduate (international) students who have uploaded

their photo and DON’T require passport/visa copying can collect their Sussex ID cardTuesday 13 September

Wednesday 14 September

Undergraduate students only (including international, EU, Visiting and Exchange)

09:15-11:15 - Maths & Physics; Engineering & Informatics; SPRU 11:15-13:15 - Business, Management & Economics; Global Studies ; Law, Politics & Sociology 13:15-15:15 - Media, Film & Music; English; History & Philosophy; Education & Social Work; Foundation year students 15:15-16:30 - Psychology; Life Sciences

Thursday 15 September

Postgraduate students only (including international, EU, Visiting and Exchange)

09.15 -13.00 - Business, Management & Economics; Global Studies; Law Politics & Sociology; Maths & Physics; Engineering & Informatics

13.30 – 16.30 - Media, Film & Music; English; History, Art History & Philosophy; IDS; Education & Social Work

Friday 16 September

Postgraduate (international) students only09.15 – 12.30 – Life Sciences; Psychology; SPRU

Monday 19 September

Everyone13:00-16.30 - all new and returning students still unregistered can do so this afternoon

Tuesday 20 September

Everyone09:15-13:00 - all new and returning students still unregistered can do so today

From Wednesday 21 September

Late registration is now in the Student Accounts Office, Sussex House

…and completing registration in-person

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Students from the countries below will receive a stamp in their passport or wording on their visa that tells them to register with the Police. If your spouse or children entered the UK as your dependants, they are likely to also have this condition. If there is no instruction on your visa about registering with the Police, you do not need to do anything.

Police registration

Afghanistan Iran Qatar

Algeria Iraq Russia

Argentina Israel Saudi Arabia

Armenia Jordan Sudan

Azerbaijan Kazakhstan Syria

Bahrain Kuwait Tajikistan

Belarus Kyrgyzstan Tunisia

Bolivia Lebanon Turkey

Brazil Libya Turkmenistan

China Moldova United Arab Emirates

Colombia Morocco Ukraine

Cuba North Korea Uzbekistan

Egypt Oman Yemen

Georgia Palestine

Hong Kong Peru

How to register with the police:

If you have to register with the Police, you are supposed to do so within seven days of your arrival in the UK. However, Sussex Police do not always have the resources to allow students to register within this time limit. Sussex Police come onto campus at various times during the year and you should contact them within seven days of your arrival in the UK or receipt of your returned visa from the Home Office. You need to follow the following steps to make an appointment:

1. Email your name, nationality, place of study to j.s.thorogood@sussex.ac.uk

2. You will then be contacted by email to inform you when and where your appointment will be, make a note of this and make sure you turn up for your appointment. If you do not, the Police will not be able to reschedule you quickly and cannot guarantee your next appointment will be on campus.

The Police will reply to you as quickly as they can. Please do not send them more than one email.

3. When you go to your appointment, you will need to bring your passport, BRP and accompanying letter (if you have a BRP), £34 fee in cash, two passport size photographs, and proof that you are a student at the University of Sussex (i.e. offer letter or CAS (confirmation of acceptance for studies).

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Brighton city centre map

The Brighton Lanes and Seafront

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Brighton DomeA fantastic venue in the heart of Brighton and is where the ‘International Students Welcome Party’ takes place on Sunday 25 September. See page 19 for details.

2 The Royal PavilionOne of Brighton’s most beautiful and famous buildings.

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Old SteineA popular meeting place in Brighton and where you would get off the bus for a visit to the Pier or the Royal Pavilion

Palace Pier (‘Brighton Pier’)Commonly known as ‘Brighton Pier’, but ‘Palace Pier’ to the locals, this is one of the most popular places in town for tourists. The pier is also definitely worth at least one visit for its arcade machines, rides and attractions, and it looks great by night when its bright lights mean that it can be seen from miles away.

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Churchill SquareA central point in Brighton. Get off the 25 bus here if you are going to the Churchill Square Shopping Centre from the University. On the route of the ‘Brighton city shopping tour’ on Sunday 11 September. See page 10 for details.

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Brighton stationBrighton’s main train station for trains to London and around Sussex

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Brighton BeachIt may not be sandy, but Brighton residents are very proud of our pebble beach. You are sure to spend many hours relaxing here with friends, taking part in sports, or just people-watching.

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