International and exchange pre-departure checklist

When applying for your visa, you may also be required to apply for an Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate in order to begin your studies.

Apply for University accommodation, await an acceptance email and submit your pre-payment.

You will need your Surrey student number to apply. Put any special requirements in the space on the form e.g. permission to purchase a fridge to store your medicine in, etc. 

International students - your passport needs to be valid for at least six months after the start of your course. If you have to order a new passport, please scan a copy of this and send this to the Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) team. You will need to do this even if you have already received your visa. 

Exchange and study abroad students - your passport needs to be valid for at least six months after the end of your stay. If you order a new passport, please scan a copy and send it to the International Engagement Office. You will need to do this even if you have already received your visa. 

Once you have your visa (if relevant), you can book your travel. We recommend booking flexible tickets in case you need to change your travel dates due to changes in travel restrictions. Check your visa dates and our semester and vacation dates carefully before booking. 

Take out travel insurance to cover any loss of luggage or travel delays and cancellations, together with medical insurance, particularly if you have a pre-existing medical condition. The health surcharge, EHIC cards and reciprocal healthcare agreements will only provide partial medical cover so most international students will require some additional cover. University accommodation provides some belongings cover for your room. 

Get collected from Gatwick or Heathrow airports by booking a meet and greet (airport pick-up).

For ongoing medical conditions, bring with you a good supply of medicine and a letter from your doctor or medical notes translated into English.

This is an important first step. Pre-register online in just a few minutes.

As soon as you are notified via email, set up your IT account. Keep your confirmation of registration as you will need to show this when you register in person at the University.

Those applying for a Student visa can register online with a local doctor (a ‘GP’) before you arrive to save time. The health surcharge you paid with your visa application entitles you to the same NHS health care as UK residents. Other students (Visitors) should only register with a GP if you need treatment. Any students with an existing medical condition should book a phone appointment with a local GP for your first week at Surrey. 

Set up an online bank account and transfer funds to cover your living costs and accommodation for when you are in the UK, and avoid currency conversion fees. 

To help cover the first few weeks in the UK including small amounts of cash for use at the airport and your first few days at Surrey, we recommend getting no more than £400 in currency.