Once you arrive

Pay your fees

Explore campus British culture Events on campus Support Finances Food and drink Transport and travel Sightseeing Legal matters Staying safe

What to do in your first week

Ensure you have completed your final registration steps

Check your timetable

Familiarise yourself with the online service AskHerts to help with queries

Make sure you know where your classes are - download the Herts Mobile app for an interactive map and wayfinding

Understand your bills - read up on council tax exemption

Look into setting up a bank account

Register yourself at a medical centre - those living on campus, or off-campus but within the local area, can sign up to our on campus medical centre

Collect your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) - if you have set your BRP to be delivered to campus, you will be able to collect this during your face-to-face Registration appointment if it is ready.

Get a UK sim card for your phone

Find out more about the Sports Teams at the University via the Athletic Union (Herts Squad)

Check out the Students' Union to find out about joining societies

If you are living on campus, then check in to your new room; if you have any queries with your accommodation email the Accommodation team.

Take a look around our campuses

Moving to a new university can be a daunting process however, we're not as big as you might think. Once you get a feel for the campus, you'll find your way around quite easily. Here's some of our buildings that you might use during your studies.

Download a PDF copy of the maps of our campuses that you print out and bring with you on your travels.

College Lane
College Lane is home to our science and creative arts subject areas. The following Schools of Study are located on this campus: School of Physics, Engineering and Computer Science, School of Life and Medical Science (except Sport), School of Health and Social Work, and School of Creative Arts.
In addition, this is home to many of our student services, as well as our International Foundation College HIC.
1. Film, Music and Media Building
2. Fashion Teaching Building
3. Main Reception
4. Ask Herts Hub (Innovation)
5. Engineering Department
6. Science Building
7. LRC (Library)
8. Hertfordshire International College (HIC)
9. Wright Building
10. Hutton Hub including Ask Herts Hub (Hutton)
11. Hertfordshire Students' Union
12. The Oval Accommodation Hub and 24/7 Gym
13. Elehouse: Bar and Grill
14. Multi-Faith Space (The Key)
15. Entertainments Complex including Starbucks, Subway and Restaurant
de Havilland
de Havilland is home to Hertfordshire Business School and Hertfordshire Law School. Here you’ll also find our extensive Sports Village and our main performing arts venue; the Weston Auditorium. Programmes in Sports and Sport Science are also taught on the de Havilland Campus.
1. Law Building
2. Enterprise Hub
3. LRC (Library)
4. Accommodation
5. Weston Auditorium
6. de Havilland Restaurant
7. Multi-Faith Space
8. Main Teaching Building including Ask Herts Hub (de Havilland)
9. 25 Metre Swimming Centre
10. Hertfordshire Sports Village
11. Sport Science Building

British culture

Language
There are a huge range of British accents, and people from different parts of the UK can speak quite distinctly. If you don’t hear what someone says, don’t feel embarrassed to ask someone to repeat themselves.
Behaviour
Social behaviour in the UK may differ from what you’re used to. The United Kingdom is a very open, socially accepting nation so you may see differences in public displays of affection, clothing choices, and attitudes to same sex relationships. Although this might seem new or strange, it’s important not to stare, point, or laugh at things that may seem different or odd to you.
It is also considered rude to spit in public when in the UK and you can be fined. Spitting is seen as antisocial and carries similar penalties as littering, which is also not tolerated.
Remember, smoking in public places is illegal in the UK, and many establishments enforce fines for doing so. You also should not vape inside.
Being a good neighbour
Please be respectful of your neighbours, especially if you are living off campus. They may be a mix of working professionals (including shift workers) and families who may have young children. We recommend you to;
- Make yourself aware of the bin collection dates and recycling policy. For students living in the Hatfield area here is a link to the Welwyn/Hatfield Bin advice page
- Keep the areas surrounding the property clean and tidy. Do not leave shopping trollies outside your property and return them back to the supermarket.
- We understand that students may wish to have a party. It is a kind gesture to inform your immediate neighbours when it will be, when it will start and when it will end. Leave a note with a contact number so they can make contact if they have any concerns. Please refer to your tenant agreement to ensure you are not breaching your agreement.
- Do not advertise your party on social media. This may cause others to attend who you don’t know and could pose a security risk to you/ your housemates and your property.
- If you do have unwelcome guests or if the party is effecting local residents and guests wont leave, you can contact the police on their non emergency number 101.
Weather
The United Kingdom may have a very different climate to what you’re used to, so it’s important to prepare before you arrive.
- Autumn and winter (from September to March), British weather is often cold and wet, so make sure you have warm clothes and a waterproof coat. It's also a good idea to wear layers, so that you can remove your warmer items when sat in lectures if you get warm when the indoor heating is on.
- Summer (June to August) the UK can experience high temperatures, so it is important to stay hydrated and not spend too long in the sun.
You can find more detailed information on the weather in Hatfield by visiting the BBC Weather Centre website.

Events on campus

Teams across Herts put on a range of events throughout the year. Attending events is a great way to meet new friends and try something new!

Events calendar
All events will be posted on the events calendar. Save it to your favourites tabs and check back regularly to keep up to date on the activities happening on campus!
Orientation and freshers
To help you settle into life at the University, we run a free Orientation week hosted by the Dean of Students Team. The Orientation week for January 2024 runs alongside the main start of term, and will start on Monday 22 January. There will be activities scheduled across the week to allow you to get involved around your classes.
This is an excellent opportunity for you to start making friends, learn your way around the local area and settle into life in the UK.
The timetable of events will be available online and will be visible in the events calendar.

Student support

At the University of Hertfordshire we want to make sure your time studying with us is as stress-free and rewarding as possible. We offer a range of support services, from childcare to counselling, ensuring that you make the most of your time at Herts and can focus on studying and having fun.

Find out how the student wellbeing service can help you by watching the film below. Plus, explore other support like our Academic English and Study Skills workshops in the dropdowns. Every step of the way, we're here for you.

Wellbeing
Student Wellbeing is here to support you with any emotional, mental health, disability and health related issues which you may experience throughout your time at university. All of our services are delivered by trained and experienced staff who take a holistic and multi-disciplinary approach to ensure that you get the best support possible.
Read more about the student wellbeing support at Herts.
Academic English and Study Skills Development
To ensure the best possible academic support for our international students, we provide a range of Academic English and Study Skills workshops as well as one-to-one sessions throughout the year. Through the workshops we help you overcome some of the challenges you may face as an international student.
With our one-to-one sessions we can further address your individual needs. At the start of your studies, you are required to take an online diagnostic quiz. As the quiz is closely matched to the skills you will need for your studies, it will help you identify which of the workshops suit your needs. All our support is free and attendance is voluntary.
Additional support available
Through StudyNet, you can access an exciting new range of interactive online courses designed in collaboration with Epigeum.
The courses are flexible and designed for self study so you can do them when and where you choose. They enable you to develop your skills of writing, reading, speaking and listening in the context of your studies and help you to deepen your understanding of what it means to be part of an academic community. Each course contains interactive materials, videos and an activity bank to support you in your learning.
As an international student, we recommend that you attend the campus-based workshops in addition to doing the Epigeum online courses to enhance your learning and ensure success in your studies.
Further details can be viewed online.
Student charter
Every year the University and Hertfordshire Students’ Union publishes our student charter. This sets out individual and shared commitments between the University, the Students’ Union and our students to ensure they can make the most of their experience at Herts. Read our Student Charter.
Off campus support
The Student Community and Safeguarding Team are available to help resolve issues or difficulties students may have when living off campus. These issues may relate to disputes with your neighbours or fellow housemates, to issues with your Landlord or Letting Agent.
Find out more about off campus support on Ask Herts.

Finances, bank accounts and phone contracts

As part of your visa process, you will have shown that you have adequate funds to support yourself financially for your time at University. You need to make sure that you have budgeted for the entire length of your stay. The cost of living in the UK can vary greatly, so please make sure that you read through the cost of living guidance and that your budget reflects your personal preferences.

You will also need to arrange to set up a bank account for your time in the UK. You may also choose to take out a mobile phone contract or pay-as-you-go SIM. We recommend you research the various companies, plans and offers to ensure you take out the right type of account and plan for your needs.

Budgeting and planning
Make sure you set yourself a budget to keep track of your spending. Check through our cost of living guidance and budgeting tips to help you prepare.
If you are bringing dependants, make sure you have researched childcare costs. The prices are available online for the on campus Day Nursery.
Applying for a phone contract
It is generally cheaper to buy your own phone, and find a SIM-only or Pay-as-you-go contract, but if you do so make sure to get your device insured, since the phone company won't offer upgrades on these types of contracts. Companies like GiffGaff offer these SIM-only Pay-as-you-go plans which may suit you and help you budget your finances.
You can collect a free GiffGaff or Labara SIM card once you arrive on campus. Labara will be at the International Information Fair during the Start of Term events! You can also pick up a SIM at the Welcome Desks on campus. If you would like more information on collecting a free SIM card, you can email community@herts.ac.uk.
If you need to get a new phone contract in the UK, you can either find a phone shop in town, or apply online via any of the popular phone companies listed below. Many students have their contracts paid for them by their parents, but should you want to pay for your own, you may be credit checked. You can check your credit rating for free online, but if you've not had a credit card or a job with regular income, you are unlikely to have a high enough credit score.
If this is the case, don't worry! Most networks offer deals for students if you search for them, as well as companies such as VOXI and Smarty which are created for people aged 25 or younger and offer unique plans without credit checks.
O2, EE, Three Mobile, and Vodafone are the four major networks that are likely to have their own high street shops, but other companies such as GiffGaff, ID Mobile, Smarty, VOXI, and Ecotalk each have competitive pricing and unique selling points, so it's worth shopping around to find which company offers the right contract for you.
Opening a bank account
If you are on a course lasting at least six months or more, you should be able to open a bank account here in the UK. You should check with the bank first to see what sort of account and services they offer, and remember to ask about any hidden fees.
1. Register as a student (you must be fully registered before completing step 2).
2. Complete a bank letter request form from the Ask Herts Hubs.
3. Your letter will be e-mailed to you when it's ready.
4. You may be required to give your letter and show your passport to the bank. The bank will also ask you to complete an application form.
HSBC, Barclays, Lloyds, and Santander are some of the most popular banks in the UK, all of which have branches located in Hatfield. The UK also has two major digital banks; Monzo and Starling, which do not require any physical interaction to open or use an account. Wise also offer a Borderless Account for Students which does not require a proof of UK address.
Please ensure you research the right bank and type of account for your requirements and be aware of any fees on the account type you choose.
Students on short courses or exchange programmes
Students who are going to be in the UK for less than six months may have difficulty opening a bank account because some banks often require you to be studying on a course which will last more than six months.
If you think you will have difficulties opening an account then you may find it best to use cash point machines (ATMs) and draw money from a bank account in your home country, bring travellers’ cheques or may wish to consider asking your family to set up a pre-paid MasterCard to cover the duration of your time in the UK.
Working in the UK
Visa regulations
Most students entering the UK on a Student Route student visa are permitted to work a maximum 20 hours per week during term time.
If you are studying on a course classed as below degree level, which includes International Foundation and English Language courses, then you are only permitted to work a maximum of 10 hours per week.
If you have entered the UK on a Student Visitor Visa you are not permitted to work - either paid or unpaid.
Your vignette or biometric residence permit will tell you how many hours you are allowed to work.
Find out more about your right to work in the UK.
Study, work, life balance
Your studies should take priority over any part time work you plan to do. Your course is the reason you came to the UK, and you want to ensure you can reach your best academic achievements through dedicated study time.
If you are planning to have a part time job during your studies, ensure you allow yourself enough free time to have a good work-life-study balance.
Work placements
Many of our undergraduate courses include an optional work placement opportunity, allowing you to obtain industry experience in the UK as part of your degree programme. This is permitted on a Student Route student visa and will allow you to work full time during your placement but only if this is part of your degree programme.

Understanding British currency

1p/One Pence
The smallest iteration of British currency; commonly referred to as "a penny".

2p/Two Pence
This coin - along with the 1p - is sometimes referred to as "shrapnel" or "coppers" due to the low value and colour.

5p/Five Pence
The smallest British coin, and the lowest value of the four silver coins.

10p/Ten Pence
Equivalent to one tenth of a pound sterling. Generally pronounced as "ten pee".

20p/Twenty Pence
Equivalent to one fifth of a pound sterling. Generally pronounced as "twenty pee".

50p/Fifty Pence
Equivalent to half of a pound sterling. Generally pronounced as "fifty pee".

£1/One Pound
One Pound Sterling, colloquially known as "a quid".

£2/Two Pound
The least commonly circulated coin, singularly equivalent to two Pound Sterling.

£5/Five Pounds
Often referred to as "a fiver".

£10/Ten Pounds
Often referred to as "a tenner".

£20/Twenty Pounds
Not as common as the ten or five pound notes - occasionally called "a score".

£50/Fifty Pounds
The least commonly used note, not commonly accepted at some smaller shops.

Food and drink

Food in the UK is inspired by cultures from across the globe, so it’s a fantastic opportunity to try new things!

Shopping for groceries
Supermarkets
There are multiple supermarkets within walking distance of campus, such as Asda, Aldi, and some speciality stores like Nagoya Oriental. If you’re looking for a taste of home, there are plenty of supermarkets around Hertfordshire and London who sell authentic ingredients from across the world.
During Orientation and Freshers weeks, there will be a trip to the local supermarket to help you familiarise yourself with the route and how to use the self-service check out tills often found at larger stores.
University shop
The on campus shop has a range of essentials. If you only have cash available when you first get to campus, you can put cash on the UPAY app in store, to use your app credit in the campus shop and cafes. Simply download the UPAY app on your device (App Store | Google Play Store). Use the affiliate code “HERTS” during sign up.
Read more about UPAY on AskHerts.
Drinking water
Tap water in the UK is safe to drink and very clean, so you can also drink water straight from the tap in your accommodation.

British cuisine

British food is a mixing pot of global cuisines. Here's some of the more traditional dishes that you might expect to see in the UK during your studies.

Sunday Roast
A traditional main meal eaten on Sundays; consisting of roasted meats, roast potatoes, Yorkshire pudding, assorted vegetables, and gravy.

Cottage/Shepherd's Pie
A (non-pastry) pie generally made with a minced red meat cooked in a sauce with various vegetables, topped with a layer of mashed potato that is then baked. Shepherd's Pie refers to a lamb filling, while Cottage Pie has a beef filling.

Pie and mash
In the UK, the word "pie" most commonly refers to savoury pastries; generally filled with meat and vegetables. These are often eaten with mashed potatoes and vegetables.

Jacket potato
A "jacket" potato, is a large potato, baked until the skin is slightly crisply - often filled with butter, cheese, sour cream, or baked beans.

Full English Breakfast
A "full English", also known as a "Fry up" typically consists of pork sausages, bacon, fried eggs, baked beans, black pudding, tomatoes, beans and toast.

Fish and chips
Generally bought from shops known as "chippies", the meal consists of battered white fish (mostly cod or haddock) and chips (known elsewhere as "fries").

Transport

Navigating your way around the UK is easy using the public transport network. We have put together a few tips to help you get started.

Trains
- always buy a ticket to travel – no matter how short your journey
- train travel is often cheaper if booked in advance
- keep your ticket safe until the end of your journey
- research the 16-25 Railcard to save money on your travel
- always allow passengers off the train before you attempt to board
- if stations are busy, you should not push and instead wait in an orderly queue
Check times, prices and changes on the National Rail website.
Bus
- the University runs free shuttle buses between the College Lane and de Havilland campuses.
- when the bus you want to board is approaching, stick your arm out to signal to the driver you wish to board.
- queuing etiquette will be expected when boarding buses and you should allow passengers off the bus before trying to get on. Do not push to get onto the bus, instead wait in an orderly queue.
- have your payment method ready before boarding the bus. If using Unobus also have your Student ID ready to show the driver so your discount can be applied.
- when getting on the bus, tell the driver where you’re going and wait for your ticket to be printed by the driver. Most buses now have contactless payment and you are encouraged to pay with a contactless bank card. If you only have cash, try to pay with the correct change – bus drivers may not accept larger notes.
- it may be cheaper to buy weekly or monthly tickets if you travel by bus regularly.
- when you’re approaching your stop, press the bell to let the driver know you wish to get off.
More information about the Uno Bus network and their routes can be found here.
Taxi
- it may be cheaper to pre-book a taxi if you know when you will be travelling
- for your first flight to the UK, many taxi firms recommend students pre-book their taxi from the airport at least two days before travel due to demand levels
- there are many mobile apps in the UK through which you can book a taxi
- most taxi prices are calculated by a taxi meter, ensure the meter is running when you travel
- always pay for your taxi. This can be done through the mobile app or in cash – some taxis also accept debit and credit cards
London Underground
- the easiest way to travel on the Underground is with an Oyster card, Travelcard or contactless payment
- mobile apps can help you navigate the London Underground with ease
- visit the Transport for London website for information regarding London Underground services
To get to the train station, you can take almost any Uno Bus from either campus. If you're unsure about whether the bus is going in the right direction for you, don't be afraid to ask the driver before getting on.
Driving
Having a licence which is valid in your own country does not allow you to drive in the UK. To find out more about driving in the UK please refer to the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) advice for driving as a visitor or new resident.
You must ensure you are familiar with the rules of the highway code before driving in the UK.

Visiting sights and cities around the UK

Sightseeing around the UK is fantastic way to spend your free time during your studies. There's lot of places to visit using public transport!

Manchester
The second largest city in the UK, famous for Manchester United F.C. and the splitting of the atom.

York
A historic walled city known for it's impressive cathedral and Roman/Medieval architecture.

Stonehenge
A prehistoric ring of standing stones, each stone stands around 13 feet high and weighs 25 tons.

Liverpool
The birthplace of The Beatles, and home to Liverpool F.C. and Everton F.C.

Lincoln
A Medieval/Victorian city known for its cathedral and castle; which houses a copy of the Magna Carta.

Lake District
A mountainous region famous for its lakes, forests, and mountains, as well as associations with poets.

Edinburgh
The capital of Scotland, home to the scenic Edinburgh Castle, and the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

Cardiff
The capital of Wales, famed for the shooting location of BBC shows; Doctor Who and Sherlock.

Cambridge
A world-famous university city, home to seven colleges and two universities, as well as multiple museums.

Brighton
A seaside resort town known for its nightlife, arts scene, and regency-era buildings and arcades.

Birmingham
A city that primarily grew in the industrial revolution; now home to a huge arts subculture.

Bath
Known for its incredibly Roman-built baths, and the canal system that runs all the way to Oxford.

Exploring the local area

Don't want to travel far to visit some landmarks? Hertfordshire and London have some amazing places to visit during your studies. If you're looking to get around the Hatfield area, there's lots of transport links provided by the University's bus company as well as easy access to a National Rail train station.

You must ensure you have completed your required quarantine before you begin exploring.

Tower of London
A historic castle located on the north bank of the River Thames in central London.

The Shard
The Shard is a 95-storey skyscraper in Southwark, designed by the Italian architect Renzo Piano.

Stanborough Park
A 126-acre park on the border of Hatfield and Welwyn Garden City, known for its two large lakes.

Emirates Stadium
Located in Royal Holloway, London, the Emirates Stadium is one of the largest football stadiums in England and home of Arsenal F.C.

St Albans Cathedral
A beautiful cathedral in St Albans comprised on ancient Normal architecture, situated in a large park.

Piccadilly Circus
The famous central London junction connecting Regent Street and Piccadilly, known for the iconic LED screens and the statue of Eros.

London Eye
Located on the South Bank, the London Eye is Europe's tallest observation wheel, and the UK's most popular tourist attraction.

Hatfield House
A country house set in a large park on the East side of Hatfield. Hatfield House is frequently used in films and TV, including recent Oscar winner, The Favourite.

The Galleria
A designer outlet centre within walking distancing of both campuses. The Galleria houses clothing, household, leisure, and coffee shops.

Buckingham Palace
The London residence and administrative headquarters of the monarch of the United Kingdom (currently Queen Elizabeth II), located in Westminster.

Big Ben
Big Ben is the nickname for the Great Bell of the Elizabeth Tower at the north end of the Palace of Westminster.

Bayfordbury Observatory
Located just six miles from the campuses, our observatory is one of the largest teaching observatories in the UK.

Legal matters

The laws in the UK may not be quite the same as in your own country. If you break the law and are found to be guilty of a crime, a successful prosecution could result in a fine, a prison sentence or even being deported from the UK. You would also be subject to the University’s disciplinary procedures and liable to be excluded from the University.

Immigration guidance during your studies
The Student Immigration Advisors are here to help students with any queries they may have about student visas, and to help, where necessary, to extend their time in the UK. The advice we give is free.
If you have a Student Visa, it’s important that you act in a way which protects your immigration status, find out how to do this on the UKCISA website.
As a Student sponsor the University has a legal duty to report to the UK immigration authorities those Student Visa holders who:
- Fail to enrol for their course within the enrolment period
- Leave their studies (permanently or temporarily)
- Are absent without permission
- Complete their course earlier than expected
- Raise suspicion that they may be in breach of the terms of their visa
Official documents
It is illegal to alter any official documents produced by the University or any other company. This includes changing information on PDF and emails provided to you.
If you believe something is incorrect on an official document or email, you must make enquiries with the person who produced the document to see if corrections can be made and an updated document provided to you. You must not alter the document yourself.
Registering with the police
Previously, some Student Visa holders were required to register with the police within 7 days of arriving in the UK. However, on the 1st August 2022 Police Registration was discontinued and is now no longer required.

Staying safe in the UK

avoid displaying expensive items such as watches, jewellery or mobile phones in busy public places
try not to carry large amounts of money with you, most places in the UK accept card payments
be aware of potential scams – only make tuition or accommodation payments directly to the University
if you have lost a key or just moved to a new property, it is a good idea to change the locks after speaking with your landlord
make sure your phone is charged when going out in case of emergency, or if you lose the people you are with
always know how you're getting home, especially when going somewhere you don't know - let someone know where you're going and when you'll be back
register your belongings on immobilise.com, a free UK property register used by the police, insurers, and the second-hand trade - register items like your phone or your bike, anything that may be stolen, in order to assist the police
familiarise yourself with the University Police Team who are on campus to help you

What 3 words

The what3words app is a useful tool to help identify your precise location to emergency services. What3words splits the world into three meter squares, with each square having a unique word tied to it. You can download the app in case you need it for future.

Safety and emergency contact numbers

999 Emergency (police, fire, ambulances)
112 Emergency (UK mobile)
111 Non-emergency for health
101 Non-emergency for police
+44 (0) 1707 281010 On-campus security
+44 (0) 1707 285555 On-campus emergency

Want to read more?

Please return to the Pre-Arrival Guide landing page.

International Pre-arrival Guide