PGRs on split site, distance learning and dual award programmes
If you’re registered on one of these programmes, there are specific periods of attendance in Leeds and study requirements that you should be aware of.
These requirements depend on your degree and are outlined in the Programme of Study.
If you have any questions about your attendance pattern or need to request changes, contact your Graduate School.
Key steps for visits to Leeds
Whether your stay is brief or extended, here’s what you need to do before and during your visit.
Before you arrive in Leeds
Work with your supervisor and Graduate School to finalise details like arrival dates, study spaces, and any assessments. Confirm these arrangements at least one month before your arrival.
For international students, the Prepare for Leeds page has advice on visas, arrival and more. If you need ATAS clearance to study, make sure you apply in good time as it can take up to six weeks to process.
Plan arrival logistics with your supervisor: where to go, how to access your school buildings, and what arrangements are in place for your work and supervision.
Your first visit to Leeds
Review the Doctoral College Induction Programme and the International Orientation information.
The Doctoral College runs Meet & Greet sessions for new and existing PGRs. You can meet Doctoral College staff, staff from other support services (such as Counselling and Wellbeing services, the Careers Service, International Student Office and Leeds University Union) and academic staff, as well as other PGRs.
All Meet & Greet dates are advertised on the PGR Teams space and the Doctoral College Events calendar.
Tasks to do when you arrive
- Collect access cards and keys.
- Complete health and safety training (ask your supervisor or Graduate School).
- Arrange to meet your supervisors and research group.
- Locate workspaces (eg desks or labs).
- Hold supervision meetings in person and record them in GRAD.
- Complete the Right to Study check
- If you require ATAS clearance to study but you haven't received your certificate yet, please contact Student Visa Advice urgently
Subsequent visits to Leeds
Repeat the steps from your first visit, including:
- Collecting access cards and completing health and safety training.
- Meeting supervisors and research groups.
- Confirming workspace arrangements.
- Completing the Right to Study check and ATAS clearance (if required).
Before you leave Leeds
Work with your supervisor to complete any final tasks, which might include:
- Returning access cards, keys, or IT equipment.
- Clearing lab areas, desk space, or lockers. Make sure you tell lab staff if you leave any samples left behind.
For international PGRs
If your course requires you to have ATAS clearance, you need to make a new ATAS application before each time you arrive in the UK. PGRs who do not have approved ATAS will not be permitted to study in the UK.
If you require a visa to enter the UK, you must complete a Right to Study check each time you come to Leeds. This allows the Student Documents and Visas Team to check your immigration permissions to ensure that you can study in the UK on your visa. This is a requirement of UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).
If you do not complete the Right to Study check, this could result in your withdrawal from your studies at the University of Leeds. It could also cause issues with future visa applications for visits to the UK. For help with your visa, contact the Student Visa Advice team (StudentVisaAdvice@leeds.ac.uk).
If this is your first visit to Leeds, you will need to complete to complete an Identity Check. For subsequent visits, please email your immigration permission documents to studentidcheck@leeds.ac.uk.
Information about what immigration documents are required is on our What Documents You Need For Your ID Check page.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure your visits to Leeds are productive, efficient, and compliant with university and UK government regulations.