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Getting Ready for Suffolk

Everything you need to know about getting started at Suffolk

The University of Suffolk would like to extend a very warm welcome to all of our students who will be travelling to Suffolk from overseas. We understand that this may be a daunting experience for some, and for many of you, it will be your first time coming to the UK. To help you settle in we have put together some information that will smooth the transition. We will be updating this page regularly, so check back to keep up-to-date.

Student bedroom inside accommodation building

What to Pack

Packing for studying abroad in the UK requires careful consideration. Though it might be tempting to bring as much of your belongings with you, we would recommend you limit yourself to two bags. Not only is it difficult to carry more but the National Express coaches from the airports to Ipswich have restrictions on the amount of luggage they allow. 

When picking which clothes to bring, pack lots of layers and warm clothes. Weather is very changeable in the UK so it’s good to have a variety of clothing suitable for all weather.

As well as the essentials it's a good idea to pack some personal belongings to make your accommodation feel more familiar.

If you're bringing electrical appliances remember to pack the relevant converters and chargers (the UK uses 230 volts), and check with your accommodation if the appliances are allowed.

If you haven't already provided copies of your certificates and transcripts, bring these with you as they may be needed at your induction. 

Remember that you don't need to bring everything with you; you can buy some items locally if needed. 

UniKitOut

UniKitOut provides bespoke student packages from kitchen to bedding packs and all the extras you might need for your new home, at discounted rates. You can get your pack delivered directly to your new accommodation so it's waiting for you when you get here. Save 10% on your UniKitOut order with the discount code 'SUFFOLK10'.

Pick your pack
Kitchen and dinning area in student accommodation
Exterior of the student accommodation building

Accommodation

You've obtained your CAS, you know what you want to bring with you to the UK, and you are ready to start studying. 

That should mean you've also checked off booking your accommodation. But if you haven't made your accommodation arrangements our Student Centre can provide information about recommended accommodation throughout your studies at the University of Suffolk. 

 

Our accommodation

Man in uniform standing at counter at luggage checking point

Guide to customs

View our guide for customs
Close-up of someone using an ATM machine

Opening a bank account

View our financial advice
Close-up of the student at a computer

Online courses for international students

Get ready for your studies in the UK

Getting to the University of Suffolk

The closest airport to Ipswich is London Stansted. However, you may arrive at another London airport, such as London Heathrow, Gatwick or Luton. When you have landed, we would encourage you to take a National Express bus from the airport to Ipswich - this can be pre-booked, or you can purchase your ticket from the airport. When your bus arrives in Ipswich, please make use of the free taxi shuttle service to your accommodation.

National Express National Rail
View of a train nearing the platform at Ipswich railway station
A crowd of student entering the Waterfront Building

Induction Week

Enrolment

After arrival in the UK, please collect your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) at your allocated collection point and take it with your passport to the University. Once we have taken copies of these, your enrolment will be released. 

You can then check and confirm the information we hold about you, make module selections, and confirm your timetable.

Students who are being sponsored or self-funding their tuition fees will also be able to arrange for these payments to be made.  

International Induction

Induction is your welcome to the University.

During induction, you will meet other new international students, learn about the University and gain the tools needed to succeed at Suffolk! 

Our Student Life team hold a number of events and sessions that cater specifically to our international students so make sure you join us!

Your course Induction

Specific dates will be confirmed on the your Induction page

Freshers’ Week  

The Students' Union deliver our Freshers' week at the start of your first term. It's a great opportunity to make friends, try out new things and to have fun. 

Keep an eye on the SU Website for more information as it becomes available. And head to our socials to see highlights from previous Freshers' weeks. 

Two members of staff sitting at their desk working

Student Life

We have a dedicated Student Life team to support your endeavours at the University of Suffolk.

Our team is here for you and is your first point of contact. The Student Centre, is open 9am-5pm Monday to Friday with dedicated advisers where you can receive friendly, professional and efficient advice and guidance on a range of topics from Health and Wellbeing to Study Skills support.

The International Advice Team is always on hand to provide specific guidance to you as an international student at Suffolk. 

We also host a monthly International Student Café with the aim of cultivating an already thriving International student community and providing informative and fun sessions on a range of topics. 

The International Festival is an annual highlight in our calendar as well as our summer trips! 

Student Life Mentoring

Student Life Mentors, are students in their second or third year here at University of Suffolk. They know what it is like to start university, and can introduce you to the University of Suffolk, and the town of Ipswich.

Your Student Life Mentor can answer questions you may have about university life, and provide you with helpful information.

The first step is to pair you up with one of our mentors. To be assigned a mentor, please contact the Student Life Team. 

Meet your Welcome Week Team