Pre-Arrival Information

We look forward to welcoming you to De Montfort University International College. We want all our students to have the best possible start and for this to happen, it is essential that you follow the below steps.

Important Dates

November 2024 intake

Online Registration Opens 16/10/2024
Online Registration Closes 13/11/2024
Induction Week Begins 30/10/2024
Course Start Date 04/11/2024

College Address: Estates Development Building, Richmond Street, Leicester LE2 7GZ

Pre-Arrival Webinars

Our pre-arrival webinar series for international students is designed to prepare you for your upcoming journey to DMUIC. You can find out some of what we discuss in these webinars below and how to join them.

In these live sessions, your key staff contacts, as well as current international students, will provide you with guidance and advice as a newly-admitted international student.

Do you have questions?
All our webinars have a LIVE question and answer session at the end! You will have the opportunity to ask our speakers questions during the meeting and get fast answers!

Pre-Arrival Webinar

In this webinar, participants will begin by meeting the pre-arrival team for the first time! The webinar will cover a host of topics designed to assist you with all you need to do before reaching the UK, including:

  • Information and updates about booking your visa
  • Booking your accommodation
  • What is registration?
  • Booking your flight
  • Bringing dependants
  • Arriving in the UK
  • And much more!

You’ll also get an opportunity to hear from our Student Experience Officers, who will be on hand to help you as soon as you arrive in the UK.

Date Time Link
Watch Recording

Accommodation: Your Options

In this webinar, participants will learn about university accommodation, the advantages and disadvantages of living in privately-owned housing and things to consider before booking.

The webinar will also cover:

Where you should live and why it is important to be close to campus
The best websites to search for accommodation
The importance of booking early

Date Time Link
Watch Recording

College Pre-Arrival Webinar

In this webinar, participants will begin by meeting the DMUIC college team for the first time! This webinar will cover DMUIC-specific topics, including:

  • Notable dates
  • Your journey to the college
  • How to complete your online registration
  • The cost of living in the UK
  • Welcome week and induction

You’ll also hear from current student representatives who joined the course within the last year!

This webinar will be repeated three times before your course start date; you can join as many times as you like and ask questions – we recommend joining at least once!

 

Date Time Link
Watch Recording

 

Step 1 - Apply for your visa

In order to avoid delays in getting your visa, it is very important to apply for your Student visa as soon as you have received your Confirmation of Acceptance for Study (CAS) letter. Any delays in receiving your visa, will impact your ability to register onto your course on time.

Our team can support you through this process. You can reach out by using this form.

We will request updates on your visa application status via CAS Shield, the online self-service system that you used when you submitted your CAS documents. Please ensure that you click the button that best represents your situation so we can promptly assist you. Once you’ve received your visa, please upload the vignette on CAS Shield.

Important Note for BRP Collection

We strongly advise you to ensure that your BRP will be delivered to the University and NOT to the Post Office! In order for the BRP to be delivered to the University, you will need to enter an Alternative Collection Location (ACL), on your visa application form (in the section ‘BRP Collection Location’, under the Alternative Location field). Our ACL code is 2HE487.

You will need to have collected your BRP in order to be eligible to complete face-to-face registration!

Benefits of university collection

Convenience: You can pick up their BRP without having to travel to a separate post office. The post offices in the UK typically has a long queues – so it’s best to avoid collection here if possible.

Reduced Wait Times: The university have dedicated staff and procedures in place to streamline the BRP collection process for you.

Support Services: The university staff can provide additional support and guidance regarding immigration matters.

Step 2 - Book your accommodation

You must book your accommodation before you come to the UK

DMU offers several halls of residence options according to your preference.

If you prefer to live in halls of residence, please apply as early as possible as places fill up fast!

You’ll be able to book your accommodation if you hold a Conditional or Unconditional Offer letter and paid your tuition fee deposit or if you have been issued a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) letter. You will be sent the portal login details to the email address you provided when you applied. If you have not received the login details, please contact DMU Accommodation Office.

Please note for applicants commencing in January, February, April, June, July, August and November you will need to contact the DMU accommodation office directly in order to book your room.

If you received your portal login and have any questions, please call +44 (0)116 2577577 or email Accommodation@dmu.ac.uk for more information.

Take a Look at the range of university managed accommodation from this page

Click to book your accommodation

If you want to live off-campus, you can book private accommodation close to the DMU campus. Sulets is the recommended lettings agency for DMU and you can search from a wide selection of high-quality accommodation close to the University. Sulets offers a fair and transparent service to all students and there are no agency, registration or reservation fees to pay. Sulets currently offer private bedrooms with shared facilities in various sized flats. Prices start from £99 per week. Please
visit: Student Accommodation Leicester | Student Housing Leicester | Sulets

It is advisable to move into your accommodation a day or two before your course start date so that you are fully rested and ready to attend our informative and engaging induction events.

All students that are in the UK on a Student Route visa MUST reside within a 30-mile radius of the university campus. Student Route visa Students who declare a term-time address outside of a 30-mile radius, or that are believed to have declared an address at which they do not genuinely reside in during term time will have their registration cancelled and the University will notify UKVI of a withdrawal of Student Route sponsorship for that Student.

We will request updates on your accommodation details via CAS Shield, the online self-service system that you used when you submitted your CAS documents. Please ensure that you click the button that best represents your situation so we can promptly assist you.

Step 3 - Book your flight

Immediately after you’ve received your visa, book your flight. When booking your flight, please make sure you arrive a few days before your first day of the term, so you have enough time to check-in to your accommodation and you join your classes on time.

We will request updates on your flight details via CAS Shield, the online self-service system that you used when you submitted your CAS documents. Once you’ve booked your flight, please upload your flight ticket on CAS Shield so we can prepare for your arrival.

Step 4 - Online registration

Registration is a three stage process and only stage one needs to be done pre-arrival. Stage two and three need to be completed face to face. All stages are compulsory and need to be completed in the sequence outlined below:

STAGE 1 – Online Registration

Online registration is a compulsory requirement, and all students need to complete it before visa verification. The details that you will provide as part of the online registration task will allow us to prepare for your arrival such as creating your Student ID card, setting up your university email address and enable your IT facilities.

Once you’ve received your CAS, you will be sent an email from maildmu@dmu.ac.uk to complete your online registration which will include a link and login details. Please note that this won’t be earlier than six weeks before your course start date.

Important! Before you are able to start your online registration you must activate your DMU account so that you create a secure password which you will need in order to enter the registration portal. Activating your DMU account requires a personal email address, where we will send you the instructions. If you have not received this email to your personal account, please contact registrationqueries@dmu.ac.uk and provide us with your correct personal email address.

Please remember that activating your DMU account is not online registration.
Once you’ve activated your DMU account you will be able to enter the registration portal and complete your registration.

Please note that you will not be able to attend lessons or receive your timetable until online registration has been completed.

 

STAGE 2 – Visa Verification (International Students)
Once the online registration is complete and you have paid your fees in full, you will be invited by email to book an appointment for the face-to-face visa verification.

You must book and attend the appointment in order to have your full registration finalised and to officially become a university student. Without full registration status you will be classed as non-arrival and this will have an impact on your visa.

During the visa verification appointment, you will receive your Student ID card and your BRP card if you opted for it to be delivered to the University when you made your visa application.

STAGE 3 – DMUIC Registration
This stage will take place on campus and once you’ve completed it you will receive your timetable and will have access to university’s online services and facilities. Please bring with you your mobile, tablet or laptop as we will need you to complete a short form online.

At this stage we will ask you for copy of your Financial Guarantee Letter, if you are a government sponsored student, or of your SLC application/approval, if you are funding your studies via Student Finance Company (SFC).

Please note that you will not be able to register with us unless you provide proof of tenancy agreement showing that you live within 30 mile radius of the university campus.

Step 5 - Pay your tuition fees

We strongly advise that you pay your remaining fee from your home country as soon as you receive your visa and before you travel to the UK. Settling all due payments prior to arrival will allow you to focus on your studies and to enjoy your student life. Without paying your tuition fees, you may not receive your timetable and may have restrictions applied to your university facilities.

You can easily pay your tuition and fees online via Flywire, our preferred payment partner. Flywire provides a secure global payment network that simplifies paying your fees from your home country and countries around the world. Payment options can include bank transfers, credit cards, e-wallets and more, typically in your home currency for most countries. Click here to make your payment.

If you want to discuss about your tuition fee payment, you can contact our Credit Control team at creditcontrol@oxfordinternational.com.

If you will finance your studies via Student Loan Company (SLC), you must make your application prior to arrival at the college. You can start making an application by clicking HERE. Please note that SFE take between 6 to 8 weeks to process SLC applications so please sure that you apply well in advance of your course start date.

Late arrivals

We want you to have the best possible student experience and we will provide you informative induction and orientation events to help you settle into your studies and make friends. We strongly advise that you don’t miss any of these events and that you attend lectures from day one in order to have the best possible academic outcome.

To enjoy the full student experience, you need to arrive at the College no later than the course start date as stated in your offer letter and Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS).

If you believe you are going to enter the UK beyond the course start, it is very important your let us know. Please send an email to the College team at prearrivals@dmu.ac.uk and let us know what date you expect to arrive and the reason for the delay. This is so we can ensure you are fully registered and will receive an induction once you arrive.

Pre-arrival timeline

As the course start date approaches, we will be in regular contact with a lot of useful information which will fully prepare you to have the best start. Please check your personal email regularly so you don’t miss out. It is important to update us on any changes to your contact details (phone number and email address) so that we can continue to keep in touch with you and give you the support that you need.

 

Seven weeks to go EU students with settled and pre-settled status – Apply for SFE loan

We will send an email reminder to all eligible EU students at Conditional and Unconditional offer stage to advise that you need apply for the SFE
loan in order to have your funds approved by face-to-face registration. The processing time for loan applications is 6-8 weeks. You will need to provide proof of SLC loan application in order to be able to attend classes.

Six weeks to go Attend our pre-arrival webinar

In this webinar we will provide you information on accommodation, registration steps, what to bring with you at enrolment and we will answer any questions you may have. You will receive an email invitation on your personal email address well in advance.

Six weeks to go Complete online registration

The registration portal will be open and you will receive the portal login details.

Six weeks to go Book your accommodation

If you haven’t booked your accommodation yet, we will contact you to advise you on accommodation availability and to check if you need any
support from us. Please note that we won’t be able to book accommodation on your behalf.

Four weeks to go Book your flight

By now you should have received your visa and you need to make your travel arrangements, so you arrive at the college on time to attend our induction events, collect your timetable and student ID card. We will contact you to request your flight details so we can prepare for your arrival.

Four weeks to go Pre-arrival emails

The College pre-arrival emails will be sent regularly until the end of registration period and will inform you as well as remind you that online registration is required before the face-to-face visa verification.
Two weeks to go Airport pick up

We will contact you to check if you would like us to arrange your airport.

One week to go Self-funded students – Pay your outstanding tuition fee

We will remind you that your remaining tuition fee will become due and will advise you on how to pay.

0 week to go Welcome to DMUIC!

Our friendly team will be there to help you with any information you may need!

Useful contact information

Visa: Pathways@oxfordinternational.com
Accommodation: accommodation@dmu.ac.uk
Online registration: registrationqueries@dmu.ac.uk
SFE application support:  studentfunding@dmu.ac.uk
Tuition fee payments: creditcontrol@oxfordinternational.com
Forgotten password / technical issues: ITMSServicedesk@dmu.ac.uk
Online registration / visa document verification:
internationalregistration@dmu.ac.uk
Late arrival: prearrivals@dmu.ac.uk

Travelling to DMU

When you arrive in the UK, you’ll need to make your way to Leicester to check into your accommodation and complete your face-to-face enrolment and visa verification.

On this page you’ll find detailed instructions on how to get to the college, from the most popular airports close to the university.

From all airports your options include:

Trains: Fast and frequent.

Coaches: More economical but longer travel time with potential waiting periods.

Taxi/Car: Direct and convenient but more expensive.

College Address: Estates Development Building, Richmond Street, Leicester LE2 7GZ

Video Instructions:

From Birmingham

1. From Birmingham Airport to Birmingham New Street:

Step 1: Follow the signs to the Air-Rail Link, a free monorail service that connects the airport to Birmingham International Train Station. This takes around 2 minutes.

Step 2: Take a train from Birmingham International to Birmingham New Street. Trains run frequently, and the journey takes approximately 10-15 minutes.

2. From Birmingham New Street to Leicester:

Step 3: At Birmingham New Street, catch a direct train to Leicester. Trains to Leicester are operated by CrossCountry and East Midlands Railway, and the journey takes about 50-60 minutes.

Step 4: Upon arrival at Leicester Train Station, exit the station.

3. From Leicester Train Station to De Montfort University:

Step 5: Exit the station and walk to De Montfort University. The Estates Development Building on Richmond Street is approximately a 20-minute walk from Leicester Train Station. You can use a mapping service on your phone for precise walking directions.

Cost: Single Ticket approximately £14-18

1. From Birmingham Airport to Leicester:

Board the coach at Birmingham International Airport outside the terminal on stand J

Coach will terminate at Leicester St. Margaret’s Bus Station (stand SZ)

The coach journey takes approximately 1 hour and 30mins.

2. From Leicester St. Margaret’s Bus Station to De Montfort University:

From St. Margaret’s Bus Station, walk or take a local bus to De Montfort University. It’s about a 15–20-minute walk to the Estates Development Building on Richmond Street.

Cost:

£9 for a single ticket if you book online

You can purchase a ticket on the day, subject to availability, this will cost £16 (cash is not accepted)

You can take a taxi directly from Birmingham International Airport to De Montfort University, Estates Development Building. The journey by car is approximately 40-50 miles and takes about 1 hour, depending on traffic conditions.

Private Taxi hire: Approximately £100-£120

DMUIC airport pickup service: You will be picked up from the airport and dropped off at your accommodation. Advanced payment is required before booking the transfer, please allow a minimum of 5 working days’ notice.

For more details on how to book, please email: prearrivals@dmu.ac.uk

From Heathrow

1. From Heathrow Airport to London St Pancras International:

Step 1: Take the Heathrow Express from Heathrow Airport to London Paddington. The Heathrow Express departs every 15 minutes and takes about 15 minutes to reach Paddington.

Step 2: From London Paddington, take the London Underground (Hammersmith & City Line or Circle Line) to King’s Cross St Pancras. The journey takes about 10-15 minutes.

2. From London St Pancras International to Leicester:

Step 3: At St Pancras International, board an East Midlands Railway train to Leicester. Trains run frequently, and the journey takes approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes.

3. From Leicester Train Station to De Montfort University:

Step 4: Exit the station and walk to De Montfort University. The Estates Development Building on Richmond Street is approximately a 20-minute walk from Leicester Train Station.

Cost: Single Tickets can range from £50-£100 and may sell out. We recommended to book 2-4 weeks in advance.

1. From Heathrow Airport to Leicester:

Step 1: Take a National Express coach directly from Heathrow Airport to Leicester St Margaret’s Bus Station. Coaches leave from Heathrow’s Central Bus Station, which is well-signposted and connected to all terminals. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes to 3 hours.

2. From St. Margaret’s Bus Station to De Montfort University:

Step 2: From St. Margaret’s Bus Station, walk or take a local bus to De Montfort University. It’s about a 15-20 minute walk to the Estates Development Building on Richmond Street.

Cost: Single Tickets can range from £17-£50 and may sell out. We recommended to book 2-4 weeks in advance.

You can take a taxi directly from London Heathrow Airport to De Montfort University, Estates Development Building. The journey by car is around 100 miles and takes about 2 hour and 30 minutes to 3 hours, depending on traffic conditions.

Private Taxi hire: Approximately £230

DMUIC airport pickup service: You will be picked up from the airport and dropped off at your accommodation. Advanced payment is required before booking the transfer, please allow a minimum of 5 working days’ notice.

For more details on how to book, please email: prearrivals@dmu.ac.uk

From Gatwick

1. From Gatwick Airport to St Pancras International:

Step1:

·        Gatwick Express: Take the Gatwick Express train from Gatwick Airport to London Victoria Station. This service runs frequently, usually every 15 minutes, and takes about 30 minutes.

·        Thameslink: Alternatively, you can take a Thameslink train directly from Gatwick Airport to St Pancras International. This journey takes around 50 minutes.

2. From St Pancras International to Leicester:

Step 2: At St Pancras International, take an East Midlands Railway train towards Leicester. Trains to Leicester run frequently, approximately every 20-30 minutes, and the journey takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes.

3. From Leicester Railway Station to De Montfort University:

Step 3: Exit the station and walk to De Montfort University. The Estates Development Building on Richmond Street is approximately a 20-minute walk from Leicester Train Station. You can use a mapping service on your phone for precise walking directions.

Cost: Single Tickets can range from £23 to £84 and may sell out. We recommended to book from 2-4 weeks in advance.

1.  From London Gatwick Airport to Leicester

National Express: Take National Express coach from Gatwick Airport London (North) or Gatwick Airport London (South) Coach Station to Leicester St Margaret’s Bus Station. This journey takes about 4 hours and 30 minutes to 5 hours and 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

2. From Leicester St Margaret’s Bus Station to De Montfort University:

Taxi or Walk: From St. Margaret’s Bus Station, walk or take a local bus to De Montfort University. It’s about a 15-20 minute walk to the Estates Development Building on Richmond Street.

Cost: Single Tickets can range from £44-£75 and may sell out. We recommended to book from 2-4 weeks in advance.

You can take a taxi directly from London Gatwick Airport to De Montfort University, Estates Development Building. The journey by car is around 140 miles and takes about 3 hour and 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Private Taxi hire: Approximately£300

DMUIC airport pickup service: You will be picked up from the airport and dropped off at your accommodation. Advanced payment is required before booking the transfer, please allow a minimum of 5 working days’ notice.

For more details on how to book, please email: prearrivals@dmu.ac.uk

Useful Apps/Websites

Directions:

CityMapper – Citymapper – The Ultimate Transport App

Google Maps – Google Maps

Buying Train Tickets:

National Rail – Welcome to the Official source for UK trains | National Rail

Trainline – Search, Compare & Buy Cheap Train Tickets

Buying coach Tickets:

National Express – Coach Travel & Airport Transfers | National Express

Local Buses in Leicester:

Leicester Buses – Travelling by bus

Booking Taxi’s Pre-Arrival:

Jewels Airport Transfers – UK Airport Transfer Service to and from All Airports

DMU Airport Pickup – Email prearrivals@dmu.ac.uk for more details

Booking Taxi’s at the Airport:

Uber – Ride with Uber 

For further information, you can also check this link, provided by the univeristy!

Your student checklist

You will need to collect your biometric residence permit from your designated collection point before the vignette sticker in your travel document expires or within 10 days of arriving in the UK, whichever is later. You can find your collection point on your UKVI decision letter (either the Post Office or the University). Take your decision letter and passport with you. If you are collecting it from the University then you will do this when completing your face-to-face visa verification.

If you have received a digital visa status then this will not apply to you and you will not need to collect a physical BRP card.

You will be invited by email to book an appointment for the face-to-face visa verification. You will be sent the booking link closer to the course start date.

You must book and attend the appointment in order to have your full registration finalised and to officially become a university student. Without full registration status you will be classed as non-arrival and this will have an impact on your visa.

During the visa verification appointment, you will receive your Student ID card and your BRP card if you opted for it to be delivered to the University when you made your visa application.

You will be given your card when you attend your face-to-face registration appointment. You must have this with you at all times when at the college and on the university campus. You will need your Student ID card to access many of our services and buildings, so you must keep your card safe.

Your Student ID card also allows you to claim numerous student discounts and enjoy cost-effective entertainment, food, clothes etc.

If you have lost your card, you will be required to pay £12.50 for a replacement. You can do this through the online store and we will let you know when you can collect it. Alternatively, you can visit us in the Student Gateway during our opening hours.

The induction sessions will help you familiarise yourself with the College, the team, the DMU campus and facilities, and the city. It will also be an opportunity to speak with current students and to make friends. You will receive a lot of useful information about how to open a bank account, how to register with a doctor and what services are available to you. You will also attend an academic induction during the first week of teaching. This is an opportunity for you to meet your tutors, learn all about your course, meet classmates and ask questions.

These inductions also give you the opportunity to ask questions and get an understanding of what to expect during your time at the college.

You will be invited a welcome event exclusively for DMUIC students. This is a great opportunity to get to know your fellow students and to make friends. If you haven’t received the event booking link, please request assistance from our friendly college reception team. You will also find an event diary on Blackboard.

You will need to be connected to the Wifi to complete your registration form after your visa verification appointment. It’s a good idea to get connected ahead of time. DMU uses a global WiFi network called eduroam. You will need to know your student number and your password that you created during online registration to login. There are lots of posters and leaflets to help you connect. You can also ask the friendly college team for help.

SIM operators such as GiffGaff offer local calling, SMS, international calling, and mobile data bundles packages at a low price. You can order a free SIM by clicking HERE and you can then top it up from any convenience store or online. You can also usually buy a UK sim from your arrival airport and in local stores around the city. DMUIC also has some sim cards available.

Once you finalise your registration, you will be sent your timetable usually within 24 hours. This will be sent to your student email address which you can access through the DMU Student Portal App. You can also download the Outlook app for quicker access.

Once you arrive in the UK, you must get yourself registered with your local doctor (GP) to access healthcare. The immigration health surcharge (HIS) you paid during your visa application entitles you to the same benefits as UK residents. To register with your GP you will need to fill in a form which will ask for some personal details. The practice may ask for your address to confirm that you live within their patient boundary. It can take a few weeks to be fully registered with a GP so we recommend that you do this as soon as possible.

You can search for your nearest GP practice here www.nhs.uk/Service-Search

There are various bank branches in the Leicester (Barclays, Lloyd, HSBC, Santander) where you can open a student bank account. In order to open a bank account you will need proof of identity showing your full name (your passport or BRP will be accepted). Some banks may want to see an official document of proof of address. Once fully registered, we can also provide a bank letter from the university.

If you intend to work part-time during your studies, we advise you to apply for a National Insurance number. This is a unique personal reference number which will be required for tax and employment purposes. The application takes a maximum of 4 weeks for approval. The NI number comes through the post and it is important that you provide your correct address details to ensure that you don’t lose it.

You can apply for National Insurance number online Apply for a National Insurance number: How to apply – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

Follow us on Instagram and TikTok @DMUIC and on Facebook (facebook.com/DMUIC) to be the first to hear the latest news and to see what the students get up to!

At DMUIC we have a dedicated welfare team to support you with any issues around your welfare including mental health concerns, homesickness, bereavement, financial concerns and more. We offer face to face or online appointments should you wish to discuss any concerns. You can also book appointments to discuss academic concerns, a medical or disability declaration, a careers meeting or a finance meeting to discuss tuition fees. The full list of available appointments can be found here Calendly – DMUIC

We also organise two student drop-in sessions per week to give you the opportunity to come and ask questions and discuss queries with a member of the student services team and the student experience officer. You can find more information on these sessions when you arrive.

We are dedicated to providing a safe and secure environment and DMU has onsite campus security available 24/7. It is recommended that you save the number 0116 2577642. You can also email security@dmu.ac.uk

You can get to most places on campus within 5 minutes of walking. Please attend a campus tour during induction week where a student ambassador will show you around, how to navigate the campus and also some hidden gems!

Keep us up to date with your details if anything changes. You can change any details on the ‘Personal Information’ tile of the DMU Student Portal app. You can also email college@dmu.ac.uk.

It is important that you declare any medical conditions, disabilities or specific learning differences during your admission stage so that we can prepare to support you before you arrive. However, you will also get the opportunity to let us know during your face-to-face registration. You can let us know anytime if anything changes and we can offer support and guidance.

The college inbox is monitored Monday to Friday on college@dmu.ac.uk. You can also call on 0116 2078138 (don’t forget to omit the 0 and add the country code prefix +44 if you are not using a UK sim)

You can visit us in the Philip Tasker Building reception between 8.30am – 4pm Monday to Friday. You will find your tutors contact details on Blackboard once you complete registration.

During induction week, we will give you the complete low down on what’s available to you as a student at DMUIC. You have access to the same clubs, societies, services and facilities as a DMU student! You are automatically a member of the Student Union. There is something for everyone with 64 currently active societies and 27 sports clubs with more being added all the time.

During induction week, you will get the opportunity to attend an employment induction. During this session we will go through what you need to know about working in the UK and as a student. DMUIC has a dedicated College Careers team that can offer tailored support and guidance to support you in your search for a job. Students will also receive a fortnightly Career and Employability Newsletter which will be full of available part time roles, workshops, webinars, job fairs and more.

During your face-to-face registration, you will receive a quick post arrival survey to complete. This will allow us to see how you have found your arrival at the College and highlight to us any areas of improvement or changes that we can make to ensure the process is as smooth as possible for students.

Familiarise yourself with the Academic Offences & Bad Academic Practice Policy to understand what is expected of you and what is deemed as unacceptable in your studies. You can talk to your module leader for guidance if you are concerned.

Ensure that you have familiarised yourself with the DMUIC attendance policy. The course is an in person course and your attendance is monitored daily. Failure to attend may result in you being terminated from your course and your visa being curtailed.

This handbook aims to introduce students to the programme of study by providing information which we hope you will find useful, particularly at the start of your programme.  It provides an outline of the Programme, its ethos, structure and assessment, and the University services that are available to you, both at De Montfort University International College and De Montfort University.  Use the guide to familiarise yourself with the programme, to acquaint yourself with the Programme Regulations, its aims and objectives, and to establish what the learning outcomes are so that you are well prepared to tackle the requirements of the programme and the various assessments and examinations you are set.

There are three ways that you can pay your fees.

1.     Online payment via Flywire, our preferred payment partner (click this link) – you will need to enter your 6-digit student number found on your unconditional offer letter.

2.     Credit or debit card at the DMUIC Estate Development Building reception on Campus. (Open Mon – Fri from 8.30-16.00 BST).

3.     Bank transfer using the payment details below (please ensure that you use your student ID as a reference).

Account name: LIPC Partnership Limited

Bank: NatWestAccount: 73770248

Sort code: 60-09-15

IBAN: GB10NWBK60091673770248

BIC: NWBKGB2L

Attendance expectations

Depending on your programme, you should expect to study up to 22 hours per week of scheduled lessons (lessons, workshops, seminars etc), and up to 11 hours each week should be dedicated to self-study (revision, completing assignments and coursework). These hours are subject to change. Your programme handbook will provide further information. Studying in the UK for your chosen course is full time and should be your number one priority whilst in the UK.

You are expected to maintain an attendance of 80% and above during your studies.

Failure to meet attendance requirements can result in serious consequences, including termination from study, which leads to cancellation of your visa (meaning you will need to return to your home country).  

Academic Success: Regular attendance is crucial for your academic success and progress in your studies. Attending classes allows you to engage with course material, participate in discussions, and seek clarification on any topics you find challenging.

Visa Compliance: Compliance with attendance requirements is essential to maintain your immigration status in the UK. The UKVI expects student visa holders to fulfil their obligations to their educational institution by attending classes regularly.

Future Opportunities: Maintaining good attendance is not only important for your current visa status but also for any future visa applications or extensions. Immigration authorities may consider your attendance record when reviewing your visa application.

Student attendance is monitored on a weekly basis, with all students are expected to maintain attendance between 80% and above. The college monitors the attendance of all students using various methods, including electronic attendance tracking systems and tutor registers to record your presence in class.

If your attendance falls below 8-% with no valid evidence to explain your absence, the following sanctions will be applied:

  1. An email and phone call from the college highlighting your low attendance. You will be given some time to improve your attendance rate.
  2. You will receive a warning letter from the college regarding your attendance, this letter outlined the implications on your sponsorship from the university. This will count as a warning and be stored on your student record.
  3. A meeting with a member of the college staff / Head of Department to discuss the reason(s) for your lack of attendance,. This will count as a warning and be stored on your student record.
  4. Your sponsorship from the university will be cancelled, your studies at the college will be terminated and your visa will be cancelled, requiring your to leave the UK.

We understand that there may be occasions when you are unable to attend classes due to reasons beyond your control, such as illness or family emergencies. If you find yourself in such circumstances, please inform attendance@dmu.ac.uk as soon as possible as we have procedures in place to support students facing genuine difficulties. You are required to inform the college of any absences with sufficient reason before the start of your class. This allows for your attendance to be monitored accurately.

If you require a leave of absence for more than 3 days you will need to complete an absence request form. This will need to be approved by your programme leader or Immigration Compliance (for absences over 30 days). The full details of your period absence are considered before approval, to ensure appropriate support can be provided before you are able to take a leave of absence.

In the case of an unexpected absence for more than 3 days due to illness, you will be required to provide medical evidence.

It’s important to provide clear and concise evidence that demonstrates the impact of the mitigating circumstances on your ability to attend classes. Additionally, ensure that your documentation is authentic and accurately reflects the situation. If you’re unsure about what evidence to provide or how to present your case, please contact attendance@dmu.ac.uk

Failure report or request absences may mean your absence is not supported and will be recorded as unauthorised, potentially leading to the sponsorship of your visa being withdrawn.

The UKVI may request your student records at any time during your studies to ensure that you are in the UK as a genuine student. If you are issues with any warnings due to your absence being below 80% this would need to be disclosed to the UKVI for immigration compliance.

Here is an example of a timetable from DMUIC, this is NOT your actual timetable, but will give you an example of the expectations for your course. Please note that lessons can take place Monday to Friday between the hours of 8am and 6pm and may include all 5 days. If you are considering working part time whilst in the UK, you will need to ensure that your working hours fit around your timetable, as work is not considered a mitigating circumstance.

Please note that your timetable will change every term and you may be given a new group each term.

 

GP Registration

GP (General Practitioner) is a doctor that provides medical treatment and can refer you to other National Health Services (NHS)
dmu.ac.uk/healthy/take-care/gp-registration.aspx

  • De Montfort Surgery is on campus and is an NHS general practitioners’ surgery which provides medical care for students and local residents who live within the practice boundary.Register online today by visiting:
    demontfortsurgery.co.uk/join-the-practice
  • Download the NHS app for a range of NHS services such as booking appointments, viewing your health record and many more.
    nhs.uk/nhs-app/

Taxi services

Black cabs can be easily hailed at stations or streets.
Other taxi services can be pre-booked, please find below some examples.
Please ensure you share your location and/or travel details with someone you trust to ensure your safety.

UBER

Online Service

Aylestone Taxis

0116 233 8888

A2B Taxis

0116 340 5060

Fosse Taxis

0116 232 2222

ADT Taxis

0116 255 5222

A&B Cabs

0116 298 9898

Societies

Over 80 societies available for you to join; demontfortsu.com/activities/studentgroups/browse-societies/

African and Caribbean Society

Enactus

Anime

Ahlulbayt Islamic Society

Architecture Society

Cinema Society

Christian Union

Caribbean Society

Book Club

Bhangra

Believers LoveWorld

Barbell

Work Opportunities

Unitemps provides employment services on campus, as well as off campus with a variety of external businesses. You can sign up online at unitemps.com or visit them in the Campus Centre, first floor.

DMU Works can help you with your CV and cover letter developments:
dmu.ac.uk/current-students/careers/index.aspx

Restaurants near DMU

Examples of restaurants that are in Leicester City Centre for you to explore

Bodega Cantina

Mexican restaurant at St. Martin’s Square Leicester

Doner Shack

Kebab restaurant (Halal) at St. Peter’s Square Leicester

Mowgli Street Food

Indian Restaurant at St. Martin’s Square Leicester

Giggling Squid

Thai restaurant at St. Martin’s Square Leicester

Nando’s

Afro-Portuguese restaurant at St. Peter’s Square Leicester

Zizzi

Italian restaurant at St. Peter’s Square Leicester

YO!

Japanese belt order restaurant at St. Peter’s Square Leicester

Turtle Bay

Contemporary Caribbean restaurant at St. Peter’s Square Leicester

Shopping destinations in Leicester

Examples of some of the most popular places to visit in Leicester

Bradgate Park

Bradgate Park, renowned for its fine herds of deer, is the only remaining enclosed medieval deer park in the East Midlands and contains the oldest rocks in England.

Haymarket Shopping Centre

Haymarket Shopping Centre has over 60 stores including fashion and good outlets, making it a great shopping experience with something
to suit every taste.

Highcross

Highcross is the glamorous heart of Leicester and home to one of the country’s most popular shopping destinations.Discover over 80 of the most imaginative and desirable shops

DMUIC Attendance Flowchart

All Students’ attendance should be between 80% or above

FAQs

BRPs are only being issued as valid until 31 December 2024 even if your course and visa continue after this date. This is because UKVI is moving from physical BRP cards to eVisas, which is a digital immigration status, holding details such as your type of visa when it expires and your conditions of stay in the UK.

Watch this video for more info on what an eVisa is.

You will need to create a UKVI account to access your eVisa. You do not have to pay to create a UKVI account. You should do this before the expiry date of your BRP at the end of December 2024. Updating your physical document to an eVisa does not affect your immigration status or the conditions of your permission to enter or stay in the UK.

You should continue to carry your BRP with you when you travel internationally until it expires. Keep your expired BRP card as it may help with future applications to stay in the UK.

Watch this video for more information on creating a UKVI account and accessing your eVisa.

Generate a ‘share code’ in the view and prove service, giving them time-limited access to your immigration status information. You can get a new share code whenever you need one.

Your eVisa will be linked to your passport in your UKVI account. Before travelling to the UK, you must ensure that your current passport is linked to your eVisa, otherwise, you’ll experience delays when travelling to the UK.

You must keep your passport details up to date in your UKVI account and tell UKVI about any changes so that your immigration status can be easily identified at the UK border. You’ll still need to carry your current passport with you.

If you’ve told UKVI you have a new passport and you’re still waiting for confirmation that your UKVI account has been updated, you should also carry your old document with you, if possible, to avoid unnecessary delays at the border.

Remember! You should continue to carry your physical BRP with you when you travel internationally until it expires at the end of 2024.

Watch this video on how to travel with your eVisa.

6 weeks prior to course start date.

Contact IT Support for a password reset:
+44 (0)116 250 6050 / itmsservicedesk@dmu.ac.uk.

once your ID card has been produced and delivered, you will receive an email to your student email account from DMUIC to let you know it is ready to collect.

You would have selected a location to collect your BRP when you submitted your visa application, the collection address will show on the letter when you received your visa.

If you selected the university, email brp@dmu.ac.uk to see when it is ready collect, collection from Student Gateway. Otherwise you will need to go to the post office to collect your BRP.

 

 

You are expected to be on campus for the start date of your course, you will need to be there at least 1 week before to complete registration and collect your ID card, settle into accommodation and attend induction events.

Get a student letter from the college once fully registered, you can use this along with your CAS to open a bank account. This can also be used to show employers term times.
Request by emailing college@dmu.ac.uk or visiting reception in Philip Tasker building, student will need to provide current UK address, this is then sent to Educational Partnerships and the letter will be emailed to the student within 5 working days.

Timetable for term 1 will be sent to your University email address after the registration is finalised (once you’ve completed both online registration and face to face visa verification) and before the start of the term.

Click here to see the nearest GP, students need to fill out a patient registration form. You’ll be able to register here if you live close to the surgery, if not, you can search here to find your closest GP.

prearrivals@dmu.ac.uk  – Students can contact this email with any queries about travelling to the UK. This link gives travel options from the UKs main/closest airports. DMUIC can arrange taxi’s for students, they need 5 days’ notice.

For Travel:

  • A current passport
  • A Student Visa (if required)
  • Permission to Travel Letter (if applicable)
  • Acceptance Letter (CAS)
  • Evidence of financial support
  • Medical records for pre-existing conditions; details of vaccinations
  • Any medication you are currently taking
  • Travel insurance
  • Cash or travellers’ cheques for everyday expenses, before your bank account is set up

For university:

  • A suitable laptop or computer for study that can connect to Wi-Fi
  • A mobile phone with a number you can easily be contacted on
  • A smart phone so you can download the DMU Student Portal App