Predeparture Oxford ILS 2012

Southfield

Grandpont

River Thames

University of Oxford

The Queen’s College

Oxford Brookes University

University of OxfordMedical School

Oxford CityFootball Club

Magdalen College

University Botanic Garden

Oxford UniversityAthletics Track

Town Hall

Ashmolean Museum Trinity College

Bodleian Library

Oxford Train Station

Museum of Natural History

LanguageCourses AbroadFor adults and students aged 16 & above

EF International Language Centers

www.ef.comImportant Note: Factual information contained in this document is subject to change.

Accreditations and Memberships

The EF International Lan-guage Centers in London,

Cambridge, Brighton, Oxford, Manchester, Bristol

and Bournemouth are:

EF Dublin is accredited by:

The EF International Language Centers

in the USA are members of:

The EF Interna-tional Language

Centers in the USA are accredited by:

The EF International Language Cent-

ers in Sydney, Brisbane

and Perth are accredited by:

EF Nice is recognized with the Label Qual-ité Français Langue

Etrangère.

EF Vancouver and Toronto are accredited by Languages Canada.

All EF Courses are certified by Southern

New Hampshire University.

EF Education is an active participant in

the Comité Européen de Normalisation.

The EF International Language Centers

in Brisbane and Perth are mem-

bers of:

The EF International Language Centers in

Cambridge, München, Cape Town and Nice are

accredited by:

The EF International Language Centers in London, Cambridge,

Brighton, Oxford, Manchester and Bournemouth are

members of:

All EF Courses are recognized by Hult

International Business School.

Federation of International Youth

Travel Organizations.

EF Oxford

OxfordThis ultra-charming university town defines the very

best of higher education, having produced notables

from Nobel Prize winners to novelists. Add your

name to the list of Oxford alumni and join EF to study

English in the footsteps of the famous.

Contact details:Pullens Lane, HeadingtonOxford, OX3 ODT, UKTel: +(44) 1865 759660

Watch a video

Or visit us atFacebook.com/EFOxford

Section ...... Topic

1 ............Introduction to EF

2 ............Welcome to the UK

3 ............Weather watch

4 ............Travel & transfer service

5 ............School information

6 ............Academics

7 ............Accommodation & meals

8 ............Money matters

9 ............Phones, faxes & Internet

10 ..........Health care & insurance

11 ..........School activities & excursions

12 ..........Transportation

13 ..........Expectations

14 ..........UK culture & living tips

15 ..........Adjusting to a new culture

16 ..........EF school calendar & holidays

17 ..........Checklist

Contents - Oxford

Dear Student

Thank you for choosing the EF International Language Center

in Oxford for your studies. The school was founded in 2006

and is located in its own garden just a 25 minute walk, or a 10

minute bus ride, from the city centre, making it an ideal location

in which to study and explore the city. If you require help in

preparing for exams, obtaining a work placement, or guidance

in studies at an English university we are here to help you!

In addition to your academic work we have staff available to

help with your accommodation and your leisure time, ensuring

that you make the most of your stay with us. As EF draws

students from all over the world it will be easy for you to make

many friends from around the globe!

Oxford is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Known

as the “city of dreaming spires”, it is home to the University

of Oxford, the oldest university in the English speaking world.

It is a cosmopolitan university town and this is reflected in

the shops, restaurants and entertainment sector. There are

concerts, music festivals, river races and fairs taking place

throughout your time here, and if you are feeling adventurous

then London is less than one hour by train.

We very much look forward to welcoming you to the Oxford

school and helping you make the most of your time in England.

Best wishes,

Ruth Chambers, Executive Director

EF International Language Center, Oxford

3 Oxford, UK

2. Welcome to the UK!Congratulations on choosing one of the most in-

teresting and varied countries to study in! Britain’s

character has been shaped by its position as an

island. It has not been successfully invaded since

1066 and its people have developed their own

distinctive traditions.

The Roman invasion of AD43 lasted for 350 years

and helped bring culture and civilization to the

islands. This was soon replaced by the culture

and language of the Northern European settlers

that followed.

For a small island, Great Britain encompasses

much variety in its regions. Scotland, Wales and

Northern Ireland are ruled through London but

they remain separate countries from England.

Many have their own regional language as well

as English. Even the landscape, architecture and

food can vary from region to region, from the

mountains of Wales and Scotland to the rolling

hills of the south and west and from the haggis

of Scotland through to the fish and chips of

England.

Over three quarters of the land is set aside for

agriculture but during the 19th and 20th centuries

there was a huge growth in the urban population.

Britain became the first industrialised nation and

thousands of people moved from the countryside

to the towns and cities near mines, mills and fac-

tories. The effect of this can still been seen today

with many of Britain’s streets containing small

residential terraced housing that was originally

built to house the influx of people.

The British love their countryside and animals.

There is a great enthusiasm for country and city

parks with many wildlife nature reserves across

the country. This even extends to the home where

many gardens are lovingly tended and it is com-

mon to find a cat or dog as a pet.

British cities are melting pots for people from all

over the world. Since the 1950s hundreds of

thousands of immigrants came from the former

British colonies in Africa, Asia and the Caribbean.

This ensured a steady supply of labour into the

country. Today nearly 10 per cent of Britain’s 58

million people are from non-white ethnic groups

and over half of these were born in Britain. In

larger cities such as London, this

figure reaches nearly 40 per cent. As a result

Britain boasts a wide range of music, art, food

and religion - giving you the student exciting new

experiences.

When you are studying you will notice how Britain

has changed over the years. While still holding on

to traditions such as the Royal family and the legal

and Parliamentary systems, Great Britain will offer

you the chance to experience varied historical,

cultural and vibrant ways of life. We believe that

living abroad and learning a language will give you

valuable insights into the culture, customs and

history of your host country and give you many

essential skills to take home.

3. Weather WatchThe climate in Oxford is rarely extreme but the

weather can be extremely variable. The following

temperatures are typical for the Oxford area:

Temperatures range from:

Spring: 5° to 18°C (41° to 64°F)

Summer: 12° to 26°C (54° to 79°F)

Autumn: 6° to 22°C (43° to 72°F)

Winter: 2° to 12°C (36° to 54°F)

4. Travel & Transfer serviceTransfer service

Arriving at a busy airport in a foreign city can be

confusing. EF offers a one-way transfer service

from the airport to your accommodation for an

additional fee. We highly recommend that you

take advantage of this service.

At least one month before your arrival, you must

inform the EF Office in your home country of the

exact details of your flight (airline, flight number,

date and time).

When you arrive you will be met by an EF Rep-

resentative at the airport and usually transferred

with other EF students. When you pass through

1. Introduction to EFEF Education First welcomes students of all ages from every corner of the world to learn a language where it is natively spoken. Our innovative curriculum, the EF Efekta™ System, integrates face-to-face learning in a classroom with studying outside the classroom using the interactive learn-ing tools in our online iLab. An intensively structured academic program along with an array of educational and social activi-ties results in a fast and fun way to learn a language.

EF students come from diverse back-grounds and like you, they have chosen a program to enhance their language skills as part of their academic or career plan. Many have planned for years to take advantage of this opportunity.

A large percentage of EF students apply their new language skills by taking a recog-nized exam, such as Cambridge, TOEFL, TOEIC and IELTS. Successful completion of such exams provides the necessary language qualifications for university and for professional endeavors. Many students view their time with EF as a chance to explore educational alternatives while im-proving language and study skills. Students wishing to study at university can access information and make informed academic choices through our EF University Place-ment Service.

A great aspect of an EF program is the variety of nationalities at our schools. We welcome you to join this international com-munity where you’ll experience life and language with EF. We take great pride in our continuing dedication to our mission - breaking down barriers of language and culture.

4 Oxford, UK

customs wait at the arrival area for an EF Rep-

resentative to meet you. Do not go to another

part of the airport unless an EF staff member

tells you to. If, after approximately 30 minutes

you still have not met with your greeter, go to

the information desk and ask for assistance to

contact EF on the provided emergency number.

Please note: your local EF office will provide you

with important contact information such as an

emergency number before your departure.

We would ask you to be extra vigilant on arrival

at the airports as there have been a few incidents

where students have been picked up by Taxi

Touts, who frequently target foreign students.

They convince them they are EF Taxi drivers,

drive the students to their destination and then

charge them for the transfer telling them that they

can then claim this money back from the school.

This is not true, so please make sure that you

do not go with any driver who is not holding an

EF sign.

Independent transfers

If you wish to make your own way to your ac-

commodation, the best route to take depends on

which airport you arrive at.

❚ From London Heathrow Airport you mcan

catch a bus from Terminal 4, or from the central

bus stop outside Terminal 2, this will take you

to Oxford (students going to the EF Residence

are advised to get off the bus at the Oxford

Brookes Headington Campus stop just after

Headington).

❚ From London Gatwick you can catch a bus

from outside the North Terminal or the South

Terminal, this will take you to Oxford (students

going to EF Residence are advised to get off

the bus at the Oxford Brookes Headington

Campus stop just after Headington).

❚ From the Oxford bus station you can take a taxi

to your final destination.

5. School InformationThe School Director is assisted by an accom-

plished staff of teachers and administrators.

There is also an Activities Coordinator who

organises EF activities and excursions.

The school offers the following facilities:

❚ Computer rooms for iLab classes

and self-study

❚ Free Wi-Fi Internet and email access

❚ Student lounge

❚ Private garden

❚ Cafeteria ❚ BBQ

❚ Game room and table tennis

❚ Fitness room ❚ Coffee bar

❚ Interactive student website

❚ Noticeboards to tell you what is happening

Note: from March 2011 – May 2012 there will

be some construction work in one area of the

Oxford campus, away from the accommodation.

Services will continue as normal and disruption

will be kept to a minimum.

6. AcademicsEF language courses give students the opportu-

nity to study the English language and the local

culture for as long, and with as much intensity, as

suits the student and his or her needs.

EF Level Placement Test

Within 24-hours after booking your course, you’ll

receive your personalized EF username and

password for the online EF campus called My

EF. Before traveling, you will take the EF Level

Placement test online. This test will measure your

language level and ability, grammar and listening

comprehension abilities. Using your test results,

our academic team will place you in one of six

different language levels.

As your English language skills become stronger,

you will be promoted into the next language level.

You may speak with your teacher if you feel you

have been placed into the wrong level.

Orientation

During your orientation you will receive your class

schedule and other important information about

the school and the city. Fun activities are planned

to help you meet students and staff.

General English Classes

General English classes focus on four skills:

speaking, listening, reading and writing. Each les-

son is 40 minutes long and also covers grammar,

vocabulary and pronunciation.

Special Interest Classes

Depending on your course type you may also

select a number of special interest (SPIN)

classes. SPINs allow you to improve your English

through the study of a wide range of subject

options. Admission to some of these will depend

on academic and linguistic level and availability

of places. The selection of SPIN classes varies

throughout the year and a student may not be

able to repeat the same SPIN class. Each lesson

is 40 minutes in length.

Class size

The average class size is 15 students with a

maximum of 17 students.

Class Schedule

Classes will be scheduled between 8.30 am and

7.30 pm 5 consecutive days per week and may

be in the morning or the afternoon.

Peak Summer Season Timetabling

During the summer between the first week of

July and the third week of August, the school

is open for classes Monday through Saturday.

Your schedule will be either Monday to Friday or

Tuesday to Saturday between the hours of 8.30

am and 7.30 pm. Your timetable will confirm your

schedule.

Attendance

You are expected to attend all classes. Consis-

tent failure to attend class, for whatever reason,

may result in expulsion from the program with

no refund of course fees. In order to be eligible

for an EF certificate, students are expected to

participate in class and must attend at least 80%

of all classes.

Please note: EF complies with UK Border Agen-

cy regulations regarding periods of absence.

Homework

You are expected to complete all assignments

set by your teachers in General English and

Special Interest classes. If you are taking an

examination preparation class you should expect

at least one hour of homework per night.

Assessment

You will be assessed at regular intervals through-

out the course. Assessment is based on atten-

dance, participation, attitude and performance.

Course books

As part of your academic program, you’ll be

expected to buy the books and classroom mate-

rials that you will use in class. The exact number

of books that you’ll need is determined by your

academic level, progress and choice of special

5 Oxford, UK

interest classes. If you wish to buy additional

books you may need more money. The books

you buy are yours to keep, write in and take

home with you for future reference.

iLab Learning

All English language school courses include six

iLab sessions per week. iLab sessions comple-

ment and reinforce classroom learning in an inter-

active online learning environment. Please note:

iLab is not included in the EF Basic Course.

Exams

You may enrol for several different public exami-

nations during your course. For example, Cam-

bridge, TOEIC and TOEFL exams are all popular

with students. These must usually be taken at an

external examination centre and booked several

months in advance. EF Oxford has recently

become a Cambridge Exam Centre, which

means you may be able to sit for this exam at

the EF Oxford school. You will need to pay fees

to register for public exams in the UK. This is

typically £50 to £100 for each exam. Advice as

to the most appropriate examination to sit will be

given to you by your Director of Studies.

Cancellation of course or school transfer

If you decide to downgrade, cancel or transfer

your course to another EF school within the UK,

please talk to our Customer Support team. They

will advise you of any transfer charges and visa

restrictions.

EF University Placement Service

EF International Language Centers offer a

university placement service that provides expert

advice on applying for university in the UK and

Ireland. If you are interested in continuing your

studies, you are encouraged to talk with the

University Pathways Manager at your school.

University Transfer Credit

Through our partnership with Southern New

Hampshire University (SNHU), EF students may

be eligible to receive university credit for their

coursework.

7. Accommodation & MealsHomestay and student residence accommoda-

tion is available at the EF Oxford school. During

your stay, ask accommodation staff if you have

any homestay and residence issues.

Homestay accommodation

Students staying in a homestay will have the

opportunity to experience British life and also

have the chance to practice their new language

skills with fluent English speakers. Students who

choose homestay accommodation should do so

because they want to live in a home environment

and interact with the members of the household.

Our homestay hosts choose to host international

students because they want to learn about

other cultures and people. Students who live in

a homestay must respect the family and their

home. Likewise, the hosts will respect the stu-

dent. As you get an in-depth look at British life,

you will realize that British culture is not the same

as your culture, and therefore, home life may be

quite different.

The relationship between husband and wife, the

roles of family members, the relationship with or

discipline of children and the relationship with

pets are just some examples. If you are open-

minded about these differences, life in the family

will be a great learning experience.

There is no stereotypical family. Hosts may con-

sist of 1) mother and father without children, 2)

single mother with children, 3) mother, father and

children, 4) retired couple, 5) widowed woman,

or 6) single father with children.

EF has two different types of homestay accom-

modation; Homestay, which has a maximum of

four students per house and two students per

room; and Homeshare which has up to eight

students in one house and two students per

room. Homeshare offers a more independent at-

mosphere and students have less direct contact

with the homestay hosts.

You are responsible for all transportation costs to

and from the host’s home. You may be placed

up to one hour away from the school.

Before you leave your home country, please let

your homestay hosts know the date and esti-

mated time of your arrival to ensure they are at

home to welcome you when you arrive.

Laundry and Facilities

6 Oxford, UK

Your homestay hosts will change your towel

and sheets every week. You are responsible for

your own clothes. If you want to use your host ’s

washing facilities, there will usually be a charge of

approximately £4 - £5.

You are responsible for your personal items such

as shampoo, conditioner, soap and other items.

In England not all bathrooms have showers – it is

very common to just have a bath. You will prob-

ably share the bathroom with others. This means

that you may need to be flexible about shower

and bath times. Very few students have their own

bathroom. If you want to take a long time in the

bath or shower check to see that nobody else is

waiting to use the bathroom.

Always remember to keep your room clean and

tidy. Make your bed, and put your belongings

away. You are also responsible for cleaning up

after snacks and for washing your own dishes

after breakfast. It is also polite to help clear the

table after dinner.

Telephone and Internet use

To call your friends and family you will need to

use a prepaid telephone card. Your family can

telephone you, but please ask them not to call

too late. Remember that you are sharing the

telephone with the rest of the people in the

home. Do not spend more than 15 minutes on

the phone at any time.

Some homestays may have internet access in

the home that you can use, but this is not guar-

anteed and should not be assumed. If available,

you may be asked to make a small contribution

of approximately £5.

Requests for change

Homestay accommodation is booked for your

entire course. You may only change homestays

for very serious reasons. Requests for change

will be considered on an individual basis.

Meals in a homestay

Your homestay hosts provide breakfast and

dinner Monday to Friday, and all meals on the

weekends. You are responsible for your own

lunch during the week. Meals will only be pro-

vided when you are home to participate. Please

be sure to call your hosts if you are going to be

late or if you are not going to be home for a meal.

There will be no refund for meals not taken at

home with your family.

There is an EF Cafeteria at the school, where you

can purchase lunch, snacks, and drinks through-

out the day. A small coffee bar is also available

for buying drinks and snacks.

Residence deposit

On arrival at our school you will be required to

pay a £100 deposit. This deposit covers such

things as lost keys, damage or fines. You will

be notified if any deductions from this deposit

will need to be made. If there are no deductions

made, the whole amount will be refunded at the

end of your programme, when you check out of

the residence. You will not be able to receive the

deposit sooner.

Student residence accommodation

The Oxford Campus Residence

Some students decide they prefer the indepen-

dence and convenience of living in the EF stu-

dent residence, rather than living in a homestay.

The student residence in Oxford is a collection

of bright, modern buildings, located on the EF

school grounds, close to the Headington town

centre, the city centre and many useful ameni-

ties such as shops, restaurants and cinemas.

The residence is a non-smoking building. In the

residence you’ll have a single or shared bedroom

(specified at time of booking). Rooms are ar-

ranged in residence blocks with 20-27 rooms

per block. Some shared bedrooms have private

en suite bathrooms, others use shared facilities.

There are shared bathroom facilities in each of

these blocks. Each residence building has a

kitchenette with fridge, microwave & kettle where

you can prepare your food.

You will be living in an international environment

and have the opportunity to speak English at

all times. Bed linen is provided, but towels are

not. You will be responsible for doing your own

laundry. We have our own EF staff in residence,

so there is always someone available to help you.

The address is:

EF International Language Center

Pullens Lane - Oxford - OX3 0DT

There is a supplementary charge to book resi-

dential accommodation. If you would like more

information about this option, please call your

local EF Representative.

Meals in a student residence

Residential students will have half-board daily.

Half-board includes breakfast and dinner in the

EF cafeteria. The cafeteria also has lunch and

snacks that students can buy.

8. Money MattersCurrency

British currency is in pounds sterling (abbreviated

to GBP, Great British Pound, or nicknamed quid

by the British). The symbol for this currency is £.

The pound is divided into 100 pence (abbrevi-

ated as p). If you purchase something that is 95

pence, for example, you will probably be told that

the amount is “95 pee” rather than 95 pence.

You will see amounts written this way: “95p” or

“£0.95.”

Banknotes come in denominations of £5, £10,

£20, and £50. They will each be a different size

and a different color to allow you to tell them

apart more easily. Coins come in denominations

of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, and 50 pence, as well as 1 and

2 pounds.

Banks

For short stays it is not possible to open a bank

account, however It is a good idea to open a

bank account if you will be staying more than

6 months. If required you can hire a safety

deposit box at a bank, please ask the EF office

for advice.

Spending money

We recommend that you bring about £100 for

your first days in England to cover costs such as

travel to school, lunch, and telephone calls. You

will also need to take money for learning materi-

als used in class.

We recommend that you bring £100 - £150 for

each week you plan to stay in England. This

should cover lunches, laundry, travel to and from

school, and EF Activities mid-week. For weekend

excursions, shopping and depending on what

you choose to do during your leisure time, you

may need to bring more. Please also remember

you will need to pay for any language proficiency

exams you plan to take.

Only carry as much money as you need for one

day – remember thieves exist everywhere in the

world! The safest way to carry money is traveller’s

cheques. Many places also accept major credit

cards.

7 Oxford, UK

Changing money

When changing money in the UK always go to

a recognised bank or travel agent. Commission

rates will vary so check first for the best rate. We

regret that we are unable to change money in the

school.

Credit Cards

EF strongly recommends that students travel

with either a Visa or MasterCard. Credit cards

enable you to rent cars, reserve hotel rooms, and

do various activities, which may be more difficult

with cash or traveller’s cheques.

9. Telephones, fax & InternetTelephone

All long distance calls must be collect calls,

charged to the person you are calling, or charged

to a prepaid telephone card. We recommend

that students expecting to stay for a long period

of time come with or purchase a mobile phone.

Fax

All EF schools use fax machines to conduct

business. You can send and receive faxes from

this machine for a small fee, although you are

encouraged to limit the use. When you receive

mail or faxes at the school, they will be put in the

student mail rack for you to collect.

There are also some places close to the school

that send faxes and charge for the time used.

Ask the front desk for directions to the nearest

fax machine you can use.

Internet

The school is equipped with free Wi-Fi wireless

Internet. Students are highly encouraged to bring

their personal laptop computers for email and

Internet use on the wireless network.

10. Health care and InsuranceThe EF staff can recommend nearby hospitals

and doctors offices if you need medical attention.

Please ask the EF staff or your homestay hosts

for assistance if you need medical attention. If

you have any personal problems there is always

someone who you can talk to confidentially.

Insurance

All students traveling to the UK are required

to have medical and accident insurance upon

starting their program of study. You will still have

to pay for some treatment if you see a doctor but

you can claim the money back from the insur-

ance company. Please note: You will need to

keep all receipts in order to receive money back

from the insurance company.

All students are required to bring proof of insur-

ance in English to show that they have proper

health insurance when a medical emergency

occurs. Students who do not bring proof of

insurance will be required to purchase insurance

through EF at the school.

Erika Travel Insurance

Because security is EF’s number one priority, we

have negotiated a comprehensive tailor-made

travel insurance package for EF students with

Erika Travel Insurance, an international insurance

expert. The policy protects you against expenses

incurred through accident or illness, and provides

coverage for loss or theft of baggage and per-

sonal effects. It also provides coverage against

interruption of your EF program due to illness as

well as liability and legal expenses.

The EF staff is trained to assist with your Erika

Travel Insurance questions and claims. When you

are sick or injured the last thing you want to do is

deal with such issues. Let us help you!

11. Activities & ExcursionsExtracurricular activities contribute greatly to your

social and academic success. They not only help

you to relax after a day studying, they also pro-

vide you with an opportunity to meet and make

friends from other classes, other countries and

other cultures. Your school’s activities and trips

give you the opportunity to apply your life skills,

practice English in real situations and familiarize

yourself with British culture.

Activity Programme

The EF Activities Coordinator arranges a regular

schedule of local activities, day-trips, and week-

end excursions to area attractions. The cost of

these trips is not included in the tuition.

Weekly activities

We have a weekly programme of activities (movie

nights, quizzes, theatre trips and clubbing) at

either no cost or minimal cost. The Activities

Coordinator will also organise sports games and

tournaments, depending on student interest and

participation.

8 Oxford, UK

Weekend excursions

EF arranges weekend excursions and day trips

to local attractions. Not all trips are available each

month. The number of trips and the cost depend

on the time of year and the number of students

wishing to participate. Excursions can be paid in

cash, with traveller’s cheques or by credit card.

Our excursions are organised at a minimum cost,

are great fun and extremely good value. You are

always accompanied by an EF staff member.

Typical activities and excursions

Excursions range from day trip to Cambridge,

or the Roman City of Bath (cost between £20

- £30) to weekend trips to Edinburgh, Dublin,

Amsterdam or Paris (cost between £150 - £170).

Prices are subject to change.

Example of the Oxford activities schedule

These activities may differ from those on offer

during your stay here with us.

Monday

❚ Free walking tour with the Activities Coordinator

at 2.30 pm.

❚ Welcome Party.

Tuesday

❚ Pool or table tennis competition or night at

traditional English pub.

Wednesday

❚ Visit to the Ashmolean Museum - Free

❚ Live music in town - £5

Thursday

❚ Punting afternoon - £10 per hour

❚ Theatre evening in London, coach departs at 4

pm - £40 including travel and top price tickets.

Friday

❚ Football practice and Evening Movie Night.

Saturday

❚ Day trip to Bath and Stonehenge - £30

Sunday

❚ Visit Camden market in London and go on the

London Eye - £26

Let us help you have fun!

Parties and pub nights are held on a regular

basis as well as going to clubs, theatres and mu-

sicals. The city has a range of activities from vol-

leyball to horse riding, so whatever your interests

the EF Activities staff will be more than happy to

help. We also have use of local sports facilities,

as well as having regular football competitions

between the six EF Schools. Whether it’s book-

ing the theatre through one of EF’s ticket agents

or finding the best place to hire a car we have the

means to help you.

Oxford boasts many museums and art galleries.

Most of the museums and art galleries in Oxford

are affiliated with the university and are free to

enter. These include the Ashmolean Museum.

Thirty-nine colleges form the University of Oxford,

one of the oldest and most prestigious universi-

ties in the world. Many of the college buildings

are architecturally stunning and create the unique

atmosphere that makes Oxford special. During

your stay you might visit University College, Bal-

liol, and Merton - the oldest (established between

1249 and 1264). Magdalen College is one of

the most beautiful colleges in Oxford and Christ

Church College is the location for Hogwarts Din-

ing Hall in the Harry Potter films.

12. TransportationPublic transportation

Oxford has an impressive network of buses and

trains, providing Oxford with good connections

throughout the UK.

Buses

The Oxford bus system covers the city well

and provide a very inexpensive way to travel in

Oxford and the surrounding areas. Most buses

and coaches depart from the main bus station

in Gloucester Green, in the centre of Oxford.

There are bus stops throughout Oxford, with bus

timetables and route information.

A weekly bus pass will cost approximately £13

to £20 per week and can be bought on the bus.

This bus pass can be used as often as the stu-

dent wishes on any city bus route. Please note

that these are current prices.

Taxi

Taxi cabs are a convenient way to travel around

the Oxford area and are usually reasonably

priced. They can be found at the taxi ranks

outside of the Oxford train station, Oxford bus

stations, on St. Giles, George Street and St.

Aldates. Taxis can also be ordered by telephone.

Additional taxi costs could be charged for lug-

gage, travel late at night, extra passengers and

travel on public holidays.

Bicycles

Oxford is a city famous for its bikes, renting

and buying a bicycle is a cheaper and healthier

transport option. Local transport routes are

cycle friendly and there are many parks and cycle

paths if you prefer to avoid the road. EF has

special deals with some local bike shops, please

ask the staff for more information.

Trains

Oxford’s train station is located in Botley Road,

close to the nearby bus station and Oxford

city centre. The Oxford train station links to an

excellent network of trains that travel throughout

the country. Advance seat reservations can be

booked if required and bike racks are available

outside of Oxford train station.

Transportation from accommodation to school

You are responsible for all transportation costs

to and from your accommodation. All our home-

stays live near a bus route, which will bring you to

the school. The longest time the journey should

take is one hour. Your hosts will tell you which

bus to take. If you are living in the EF residence,

a member of staff will show you how to get to

the school.

13. ExpectationsExpectations are a normal part of anticipating a

new experience. Remember that many of your

expectations may have been formed by the

unreal world of TV and movies. Arrive at your

course centre with an open mind!

What you can expect from EF:

❚ Supportive staff for guidance & encouragement.

❚ An academic program combining language,

special interest, and culture-oriented classes.

❚ Full program of local activities and excursions at

special EF rates.

❚ Accommodation in either homestay or student

residence.

❚ All designated meals.

❚ EF Academic Year Abroad Diploma for Aca-

demic Year Abroad students with 80% atten-

dance per term and good academic standing

and academic records

❚ EF Course Certificate for International Language

Students with 80% attendance and good

9 Oxford, UK

academic standing.

❚ Preparation classes and/or materials for appro-

priate standardized language exams and avail-

ability of University Placement Service (UPS).

What EF expects of you:

❚ To develop a greater understanding of the world

around you.

❚ To attend at least 80% of all classes and to do

your best in class at all times.

❚ To be respectful of your homestay hosts, your

classmates, your teachers and your community.

❚ To keep your room and shared areas clean.

❚ To speak English at all times.

❚ To abide by all laws, rules and regulations of

your host country, state, campus and school.

What you can expect from your homestay hosts:

❚ A comfortable, clean place to live.

❚ Prepared meals or accessibility to food to pre-

pare yourself according to the meal plan.

❚ Access to the school in approximately one

hour by public transportation. All transportation

costs are your responsibility.

14. UK culture & living tipsVisas

You may need to obtain a visa before setting

out on your journey if you are not a European

Community national. Check with your EF office

and local British Consulate well before you start

your journey.

Working in the UK

All EU passport holders are entitled to work in

the UK without restrictions. If you have a Tier 4

General Student visa you are able to work up to

20 hours per week. This does not apply if you

come to the UK as a Student Visitor. The same

rules apply for students wishing to participate in

an internship during their course. If you want the

possibility of working or doing an internship make

sure you apply for the right visa.

Customs

Read the customs notices carefully. Do not try to

bring any prohibited substances into the country.

We cannot help you if you are stopped by cus-

toms for illegal importation of anything which is

against the law in Great Britain.

Immigration

If you are not a European Community national,

you will need to produce the following docu-

ments when you arrive in Great Britain.

❚ your passport (valid for at least six months after

the end of your EF course).

❚ appropriate visa for your stay

❚ proof of your ability to meet the cost of the

course, to maintain yourself and any depen-

dents without needing to work during your stay.

❚ your EF confirmation letter showing that you

have enrolled for a full time course of study.

Food

British food today has influences from abroad

introducing a wider range of ingredients and

more adventurous cooking. While still maintain-

ing its love of more traditional dishes, Britain now

has one of the widest selections of restaurants in

the world.

Do’s and Don’ts

You will be required to abide by national laws as

well as the rules of the EF school. Violations will

lead to a verbal warning and possible disciplinary

action by the School Director.

The following are illegal in Great Britain:

❚ Drugs (non-medicinal)

❚ Alcohol if you are under 18 years old

❚ Buying tobacco if you are under 18 (or buying

for someone who is under 18)

❚ Smoking law - no smoking in public buildings.

Please note that smoking is against the law in

all public, enclosed and semi-enclosed spaces

in the UK.

❚ Shop-lifting

❚ Driving without insurance or a valid driving

license

❚ Offensive weapons (including pocket knives)

Please don’t break the law. If you do, you will

almost certainly be sent straight home on the

next available flight and you may even risk being

sent to prison.

Travel outside of England

If you are planning to travel outside England

during your course you may need a visa. Please

ensure that you check any visa requirements

before you leave your country to avoid disap-

pointment.

If your passport has a single entry visa and you

are studying for six months or less then you

will not be able to travel outside the UK. This

visa cannot be changed in the UK. It is strongly

recommended that you apply for a Schengen

Visa before leaving your home country if possible.

This will give you free travel throughout many

European countries without the need to apply for

individual tourist visas in the UK.

Tipping

Tipping is customary for taxi drivers and in res-

taurants where no service charge is added to the

bill. 10% is normally acceptable. In restaurants

where service is included, bars, pubs and cafes,

there is no need to leave a tip.

Appliances and electricity

Remember that the mains voltage in Great Britain

is 220-240. You may need to bring an adap-

tor if you wish to use any of your own electrical

appliances.

Recommended reading

❚ Lonely Planet Britain, Lonely Planet Publica-

tions, Ltd. Great user-friendly travel guide for

where to go, how to get around, where to stay

and what to eat.

Recommended websites

❚ www.visitoxford.org

❚ www.dailyinfo.co.uk

❚ www.itchyoxford.co.uk

15. Adjusting to a New Culture The EF community is more than a group of stu-

dents who have come together to learn English.

It is also a multi-cultural group of young adults

who are eager to share their own culture and

learn the culture of their host country and fellow

classmates.

One’s culture is made up of values, beliefs, arts,

traditions and practices of a specific community

or population. Our culture affects how we view

ourselves, how we relate to others and what we

value as important in life. We are often unaware

of how much our culture affects our lives.

You may have already had some exposure to the

new culture you are about to experience. You

may have seen television shows, read books,

or studied in school about the UK. While some

parts of this culture may already seem familiar

to you, experiencing a new culture first-hand will

prove exciting.

You will be meeting students from all over the

10 Oxford, UK

world who, like you, are looking forward to

spending a year learning and living a language,

both inside and outside the classroom.

As a visitor to a new culture, you may experience

periods of fatigue and discomfort when you are

uncomfortable. Culture shock is what sometimes

happens when we try to meet challenges of our

new culture by using the values, beliefs, and

attitudes of our own culture. As visitors to a new

culture, we must learn that cultural differences

are merely different - not right or wrong.

Bring traditional objects from your culture to

share with other students and your host to teach

them about your country.

Tips on coping with change

Remember that change does not come without

some effort! We humans need a certain amount

of stress to motivate us to learn new ways of

being. Learning always involves some form of

change. You should try the following:

❚ While you might be tempted to surround your-

self with things that are familiar to you, try not to

isolate yourself by being only with others from

your home country. Keep reaching out to your

host, roommates and other students.

❚ Put off making major decisions such as an

accommodation change, until you feel more “at

home” with the culture in general.

❚ Talk to us about your worries or problems. EF

Staff are here to help and would prefer to know

about any problem you may have so that we

can help you.

❚ Set goals, no matter how big or small, and

accomplish them! You will feel good about

yourself in doing so, and you will reduce the

negative feelings associated with culture shock.

For example, set a goal that you will speak

English at all times.

❚ Remind yourself that you came to this country

to experience a new culture, to meet others

and to explore your new surroundings. Relax,

take a deep breath and reflect back on the days

before leaving your home country when you

were excited about your new adventure. Try to

refocus this former excitement towards your

experience.

Keeping a journal

One way to keep track of emotions and changes

that take place over the year is to keep a journal.

By recording your experiences and feelings on

a regular basis, you will be able to reduce the

impact of culture shock. You will have a record

of your academic and personal progress to look

back on in days and years to come.

Be sure to note changes in:

❚ Language skills

❚ School performance and involvement

❚ Campus/host adjustment

❚ Individual learning and growth

Keeping a journal will help to remind you that

culture shock is truly a temporary phase

of adjustment.

Bring pictures and items from home

If you have room in your suitcases for some mu-

sic, a costume, pictures, or some typical crafts,

it would be good to show other students, as

well as to decorate your room to make it seem

like home. We have seen costumes and drums

from Korea, dancing and music from Austria and

a piñata and tortillas from Mexico. Please bring

pictures of your friends, family and surrounding

area.

Important telephone numbers

16. EF School CalendarAcademic Year Schedule

The Academic Year is divided into three terms.

(See the applicable start date below for your

program’s specific term and break schedule).

January 2012

Academic Year and Semester Program

Orientation: Fri 6 Jan - Sun 8 Jan

Term 1: Mon 9 Jan - Fri 9 Mar

Holiday: Sat 10 Mar - Sun 25 Mar

Term 2: Mon 26 Mar - Fri 1 Jun

Semester Departure: 2 Jun 2012

Holiday: Sat 2 Jun - Sun 10 Jun

Term 3: (Year) Mon 11 Jun - Fri 17 Aug

Departure: 18 Aug 2012

April 2012


Orientation: Fri 13 Apr - Sun 15 Apr

Term 1: Mon 16 Apr - Fri 1 Jun


Term 2: Mon 11 Jun - Fri 7 Sep

Semester Departure: 8 Sep 2012

Holiday: Sat 8 Sep - Sun 23 Sep

Term 3: (Year) Mon 24 Sep - Fri 30 Nov

Departure: 1 Dec 2012

September 2012


Orientation: Fri 21 Sep - Sun 23 Sep

Term 1: Mon 24 Sep - Fri 14 Dec

Holiday: Sat 15 Dec - Sun 6 Jan


Semester Departure: 9 Mar 2013


Term 3: (Year) Mon 25 Mar - Fri 31 May

Departure: 1 June 2013

January 2013


Orientation: Fri 4 Jan - Sun 6 Jan



Term 2: Mon 25 Mar - Fri 7 Jun

Semester Departure: 8 Jun 2013


Term 3: (Year) Mon 17 Jun - Fri 16 Aug

Departure: 17 Aug 2013

Please note: there will be no classes on

public holidays.

School holidays

The EF International Language Centers in the

UK recognize the following public holidays

when there will be no classes. If your arrival

falls on one of these dates, please check with

the school staff upon your arrival for an exact

orientation schedule.

2012

1 January - New Year’s Day

6 April - Good Friday

9 April - Easter Monday

7 May - Early May Bank Holiday

4 June - Spring Bank Holiday

5 June - Queen’s Diamond Jubilee

27 August - Summer Bank Holiday

25 December - Christmas Day

26 December - Boxing Day

2013


29 March - Good Friday



27 May - Spring Bank Holiday




17. Checklist ■ Valid passport (with visa where neces-

sary) It’s a good idea to make copies of

these and pack them in your suitcase

just in case. You don’t need to carry your

passport with you while you are in the UK

but you must keep it and your other docu-

ments in a safe place while you are in

the country.

■ All original documents submitted for your

visa application, if you are travelling on an

Adult student visa (Tier 4).

■ Passport Photos (4) for EF student

identification cards, travel cards and other

possible documents

■ Flight ticket

■ Luggage correctly labeled

■ EF Confirmation letter & other

EF documents

■ Make sure all EF forms are complete,

especially the Health Certificate

■ Medical and travel insurance documents

with proof of insurance in English, if you

have secured Erika Travel Insurance from

EF, you do not need to have anything

translated.

■ Basic medical supplies, any medication

you take regularly and a spare pair of con-

tact lenses or glasses if you wear them.

■ An International Driving License if you are

planning on hiring or buying a car.

■ Local currency for first week and for any

learning materials that are not included in

the cost of the course.

■ Money in the form of an ATM card

(Automatic Transaction Card), credit cards

and/or traveler’s checks (Do NOT bring

large amounts of cash in any currency!).

■ Electric adaptor for any electrical appli-

ances you plan to bring with you.

■ Pencil and/or pen and notebook.

■ Items from your hometown or country so you can share your culture with friends, homestay hosts and teachers.

■ Personal sports equipment.

■ Favorite books, photos and a camera.

■ Homestay or student residence details and emergency numbers.

Homestay host’s or student residence name:

________________________________________

Homestay host’s or student residence address:

________________________________________

Homestay host’s or student residence telephone number(s):

________________________________________

EF Sales Office telephone number:

________________________________________

EF School telephone number:

+(44) 1865 759660________________________________________

EF School emergency telephone number:

+(44) 7900 683430________________________________________

Important telephone numbers

C

hec

klis

t

16. EF school calendar & holidaysSchool holidays

The EF International Language Centers in the

UK recognize the following public holidays

when there will be no classes. If your arrival

falls on one of these dates, please check with

the school staff upon your arrival for an exact

orientation schedule.

2012


6 April - Good Friday



4 June - Spring Bank Holiday

5 June - Queen’s Diamond Jubilee




2013


29 March - Good Friday



27 May - Spring Bank Holiday




17. Checklist ■ Valid passport (with visa where neces-

sary) It’s a good idea to make copies of

these and pack them in your suitcase

just in case. You don’t need to carry your

passport with you while you are in the UK

but you must keep it and your other docu-

ments in a safe place while you are in

the country.

■ All original documents submitted for your

visa application, if you are travelling on an

Adult student visa (Tier 4).

■ Passport Photos (4) for EF student

identification cards, travel cards and other

possible documents

■ Flight ticket

■ Luggage correctly labeled

■ EF Confirmation letter & other

EF documents

■ Make sure all EF forms are complete,

especially the Health Certificate

■ Medical and travel insurance documents

with proof of insurance in English, if you

have secured Erika Travel Insurance from

EF, you do not need to have anything

translated.

■ Basic medical supplies, any medication

you take regularly and a spare pair of con-

tact lenses or glasses if you wear them.

■ An International Driving License if you are

planning on hiring or buying a car.

■ Local currency for first week and for any

learning materials that are not included in

the cost of the course.

■ Money in the form of an ATM card

(Automatic Transaction Card), credit cards

and/or traveler’s checks (Do NOT bring

large amounts of cash in any currency!).

■ Electric adaptor for any electrical appli-

ances you plan to bring with you.

■ Pencil and/or pen and notebook.

■ Items from your hometown or country so you can share your culture with friends, homestay hosts and teachers.

■ Personal sports equipment.

■ Favorite books, photos and a camera.

■ Homestay or student residence details and emergency numbers.

Homestay host’s or student residence name:

_________________________________________

Homestay host’s or student residence address:

_________________________________________

Homestay host’s or student residence telephone number(s):

_________________________________________

EF Sales Office telephone number:

_________________________________________

EF School telephone number:

+(44) 1865 759660_________________________________________

EF School emergency telephone number:

+(44) 7900 683430_________________________________________

Additional notes or numbers:

_________________________________________

Homestay host’s or student residence address

_________________________________________

Homestay host’s or student residence telephone number(s)

_________________________________________

EF Sales Office telephone number

_________________________________________

EF School telephone number

_________________________________________

EF School emergency telephone number

_________________________________________

Documents

Predeparture Oxford ILS 2012