International and Exchange Orientation Programmes
The International and Exchange Orientation Programmes will help you settle in during your first few days at University.
Activities and talks
The International Student Advice team and International Engagement Office are preparing a range of events specifically designed to help you settle into life at the University of Surrey and the UK. These are due to take place on 14 and 15 September and you can find details about the type of events we will be running for September 2023 starters below.
Please book your places on the international orientation events on the welcome timetable.
Please note you can join the campus tour, faculty talks any various types of events on the main Welcome Week too!
The exact programme of events is still to be confirmed but this webpage will be updated with the details as soon as we can confirm. In the meantime, please see below for a list of activities which you can expect to see:
Visa talk
An essential talk for all students joining the University on a Student Visa or a Visitor Visa (if applicable). Get advice on how and when to collect your BRP, how to register with the GP (doctor), guidance on how to maintain your visa throughout your time at Surrey and opportunities for post-study work.
Cultural awareness
Cultural awareness is the foundation of communication in an increasingly globalised world. How you perceive yourself, your surroundings and the importance of certain actions will be discussed alongside some advice on how to interact with students and staff from a range of different backgrounds.
Academic skills talk
We know that studying in a different country can be exciting, but also challenging at the same time. This workshop will address these challenges and identify the academic support available to you throughout your time at Surrey.
Money talk
Get advice on:
- How to open a UK bank account
- What tax you might need to pay while in the UK
- Practical tips on how to make the most of your money
- Student discounts available while you are studying at Surrey.
Campus treasure hunt
Work as part of a team of other new international students in solving a variety of clues to find information around the Stag Hill campus. Orientate yourself with the University while getting to know your classmates and potentially claim a prize if your group can complete the hunt first!
Library ‘know how’ tour
A 30-minute introduction to our Library services, study space and reading lists/books. There will be an opportunity to speak to Library staff at the end of the tour.
Exchange welcome and information talks
These compulsory talks are your introduction to your study exchange at the University of Surrey and will provide important practical and academic information about your exchange, as well as being a great opportunity to meet other exchange students before your course begins.
Exchange breakfast reception
A chance to get to know some of the other new exchange students and ask the International Engagement team any questions you may have over a free buffet breakfast.
Guildford historic walking tour
Take a walk through the historic heart of Guildford, led by an expert local guide who will take you through the rich history of Guildford through the ages.
Exchange evening reception
An opportunity to have fun, socialise and network both with your fellow incoming exchange students and with Surrey students who have returned from studying or working abroad, many at your own home institution. You will also be able to chat with some of our academic staff involved in our international mobility programmes and pick up some useful information.
Day-trip to Windsor and Eton
Join your fellow exchange students to the historic royal town of Windsor. See the Changing of the Guard ceremony at Windsor Castle and enjoy Windsor's historic streets.
Ten-pin bowling and ice-skating
Come out with us to Guildford Spectrum for a friendly game of ten-pin bowling, followed by ice skating for those feeling particularly energetic.
Faculty talk
Meet the academics, tutors and support staff for your specific course. A great chance to get to know about the content of your programme and how it will be assessed as well as an opportunity to meet your classmates and find about academic support available to you.
Guildford hotspots tour
Join a guided tour of all the key locations in Guildford for newly arriving international students whether it’s supermarkets that sell food from back home, banks where you can open an account quickly and easily or some of the many shops on Guildford High Street, we’ll be on hand to make sure you know where to go.
International students board game social
The chance to meet and talk with your fellow new and previous students and play various board games.
Enjoy and relax meeting other students and Student Experience staff to share a variety of experiences with each other.
International students welcome dinner
Join us for a free 2-course meal and a variety of fun activities that will allow you to get to know your fellow students.