FAQs – Answering all your questions about living in Nottingham

This page will answer questions about:

  • Lifestyle

  • Accommodation

Moving to the UK is bound to have you querying things that will be new in your life. It is important to make these adjustments early on when you arrive in the UK, so that you can concentrate on your studies.

How do I open a bank account?

You will need a letter from the College in order to open a bank account. As your courses are designed to start as soon as possible we will give you this letter during the Induction and Registration course so that you can make arrangements to set up your bank account.

Where can I buy a mobile phone?

We will give you a free SIM card for your mobile phone during the Induction and Registration events. This will give you a phone number and access to a network, but you will still need to pay for credit to use the phone.

How do I register with the police?

Our courses are specifically designed for international students, so on arrival you will need to register with the police. Registration with the police takes place during the Induction and Registration events. If you miss Induction, the Student Services Office will provide you with full details on how to register.

How do I register with a doctor?

International students who start their courses are often so eager to settle into their courses that they may overlook this. It is essential that you register with a local doctor, so we will help you to arrange this during the Induction and Registration events. We recommend you register soon after your arrival. You will be able to register free of charge at the health centre on campus.

Do I have to attend class during a religious or cultural festival?

Our courses are intense and require a very high level of academic commitment all year round in order to ensure your successful progression to the University. We therefore ask you to attend classes during these festivals.

During my courses are there places to pray?

While attending lectures and studying courses should be the main priorities of our students, we acknowledge that practising your faith is also of vital importance to you. Nottingham is a large, multicultural city with many places to worship. The Student Services Office will be able to advise you on places of worship that are close to your hall of residence and the College.

What extracurricular activities are available at the College?

You will have full access to the wide range of societies and clubs available at NTU, and often socialising with other students will answer a lot of questions you may have about your course. The College also arranges social events throughout your study period. Typically, this would include city tours, ice-skating, ten-pin bowling and visits to other cities in the UK.

What are the arrangements for disabled students?

Our courses are tailored to meet your individual needs where possible. If you have a disability, or chronic medical or mental health condition, please tell us about it on your application form. It will help us to better understand the support we can offer, how we can answer your questions, and help us plan for your arrival more effectively.

Find out more about the support we can offer disabled students here.

Can the College arrange accommodation for me?

Yes! Students on our courses are automatically entitled to apply for our excellent choice of accommodation. In all cases students will be able to book a single room for themselves, while some will have their own private bathroom (ensuite).

Do I have to cook my own meals?

Yes. Cooking with friends can be one of the most fun things about living in halls of residence, and is much cheaper than eating in restaurants all the time. There are lots of shops near the halls where you can buy food.