International orientation programme and key dates
We know it's important for you to settle in quickly. The welcome and orientation programme gives you all the information you'll need to get started and make Leeds your new home.
Whenever you arrive, there are many places where you can ask questions and speak to our team. We offer welcome talks throughout the year to introduce you to studying at the University and living in Leeds.
You'll get a copy of the Your Arrival guide in your international welcome pack, which you can collect when you arrive. In the guide there's information about what to do when you arrive and details of events and activities you can attend.
If you were not able to attend one of the International Student Orientation sessions in September, you can download the presentation slides for all sessions (PDF).
Arriving in September
If you arrive from 13 - 28 September 2018, visit the International Student Information Point in the Michael Sadler Building, any day including weekends, between 9am and 5pm, to collect an international welcome pack and sign up for a welcome talk, to help you get started. Our welcome team can also help answer any questions you may have about:
- University registration
- opening a bank account
- finding accommodation
- registering with a doctor
- food and shopping
- local transport
- student life in Leeds.
If you use the Meet and Greet service when you arrive, you can collect your welcome pack from our Meet and Greet team. We recommend you also visit the International Student Information Point soon after you arrive to get started.
International Student Orientation sessions
The International Student Orientation sessions provide essential information about immigration and other UK regulations, studying in the UK, cultural adjustment, and the support and opportunities available to help you get the most out of your time in Leeds.
Each session lasts around two hours and features staff and departments from across the University and students’ union. There are different sessions depending on the course you are studying:
Undergraduates:
- 10am, Thursday 20 September 2018, Conference Auditorium 1
Taught postgraduates (on Leeds University Business School courses):
- 12.30pm, 2pm or 3pm, Friday 21 September 2018. You will be allocated to a specific session in your LUBS induction programme. Check your induction timetable for the time and location of your session.
Taught postgraduates and postgraduate researchers:
- 10am, Friday 21 September 2018, Conference Auditorium 1
Language Centre students who have completed a pre-sessional course at the University do not need to attend an International Student Orientation session in September.
If you were not able to attend one of the sessions above, you can download the presentation slides for all sessions (PDF).
Study Abroad, Exchange and Erasmus+ Orientation sessions
If you are a Study Abroad, Exchange or Erasmus+ student, you should attend one of these sessions instead of the International Student Orientation session:
- 3pm, Thursday 20 September 2018, Conference Auditorium 1
If you are not able to attend this session, there are also Study Abroad, Exchange and Erasmus+ orientation sessions at 3pm on Tuesday 25 and Friday 28 September 2018, Rupert Beckett Lecture Theatre, Michael Sadler Building.
International Foundation Year session
If you are an International Foundation Year student, you should attend this session instead of the International Student Orientation session.
- 3pm, Tuesday 25 September 2018, Chemistry Lecture Theatre A
You'll receive more information from the International Foundation Year team before you arrive.
Arriving before or after September
If you arrive before 13 or after 28 September 2018, visit the International Student Office on level 11 of the Marjorie and Arnold Ziff Building (weekdays only) to collect your welcome pack and sign up for a welcome talk. These will provide you with information to help you to get started and enjoy your time in Leeds.
If you're a Language Centre, Study Abroad, Exchange or Erasmus+ student arriving in semester two, check your programme for details of your orientation session. You'll receive emails about this before you arrive.
At any time of the year, you can explore the Feeling at Home in Leeds online guides to hear about students' experiences and advice about settling in, making friends, and making the most of all aspects of University life.
Welcome activities and social events
During International Welcome Week and Freshers' Week there are many events to meet new people and take part in activities. You'll have the opportunity to explore campus, relax and meet new friends at Global Cafe, as well as enjoy a range of activities in the students' union, including the clubs and societies fairs.
For a full list of social events, activities and evening entertainment, check out Leeds University Union's website and our Global Community webpages.
At other times of the year, check the Give it a Go programme and opportunities to get involved, which run all year round.
If you're a Study Abroad, Erasmus+ or Exchange student arriving in January 2019, you'll receive emails before you come to Leeds to find out what events and activities are happening when you arrive.
Important dates when you arrive
- Welcome talks and international welcome packs: all year
- Meet and Greet service: 14 - 21 September 2018, 08.30 - 22.00
- International Student Information Point: 13 - 28 September 2018
- International Welcome Week: 17 - 23 September 2018
- International Student Orientation sessions: 20 and 21 September 2018
- Freshers’ Week: 24 - 30 September 2018
Important dates for September 2019 will be available from February 2019.