International Checklist | University of Chester

Are you an international student preparing to study at the University of Chester?

To help you enjoy a smooth and successful start at the university, there are a few important tasks to complete before and after you arrive in the UK.

International students have a few additional steps to follow. In this checklist, you will find full guidance and requirements.

If you have any questions, our Student Experience Team is here to help: studentexperience@chester.ac.uk

Female student holding her mobile phone taking a selfie with two other girls in the background

Chester city rows, two students looking down the street at people, shops and tall buildings.

Student on a computer at Seaborne Library

Students enjoying coffee in Chester city centre

A parent and student at an applicant day, talking to staff across a desk

three students standing on a quiet cobbled street in chester

1. Book Accommodation

International students must ensure accommodation is arranged before travelling to the UK. Please be aware that you’ll be expected to travel to campus regularly, and maintaining attendance is essential to meet your visa requirements.  Make sure any accommodation you choose allows for a reasonable commute by checking travel times to the University in advance.  For full details on how to apply, please visit the University of Chester Accommodation page.

2. Complete Enrolment

_{Enrolment is the process that officially makes you a student at the University of Chester. There are 3 stages, and Stages 1 and 2 must be completed before you arrive in the UK.}

_{You will receive a “Welcome to UoC” email containing your Student ID number and instructions on how to begin.}
_{If you have not received this email, please contact the LIS Helpdesk on 01244 511234 or lis.helpdesk@chester.ac.uk.}

_{Stage 1 – Online Enrolment (Complete before you arrive)}

_{Online Enrolment is the first step in becoming an official student.}

_{Student visa holders must also create a UKVI account and access their eVisa before travelling.}
_{Failure to do so may result in being denied boarding and could delay your arrival.}

_{Stage 2 – Payment of Fees (Complete before you arrive)}

_{You must have paid a minimum of £8,000 at least five working days before your course start date, and before travelling to the UK.}
_{For further details, please refer to our tuition fee payment information.}

_{Stage 3 – Submitting Your Immigration Documents & In-Person Enrolment}

_{Before travelling, upload your flight details and, if applicable, your share code to CAS Shield.}

_{After you arrive in the UK, you must attend in-person enrolment to submit your documents to the Visa Compliance team.}
_{You will receive an email inviting you to book a time slot, including guidance on how to complete your booking and choose your preferred date, time, and location.}

_{If you have any questions, please contact: studyvisa@chester.ac.uk}

_{For full guidance on International Student Enrolment and entering the UK, please visit our Enrolment Information Page.}

3. Upload your Photo

Upload a passport-style photo for your Student ID card before you arrive. The uploaded photo will also be added to your student record.

To upload your photo and to find more information, visit our website.

4. Register with a GP

Once you’ve accepted your accommodation offer and have your term-time address, we recommend registering with a GP (General Practitioner/Doctor) in Chester. This ensures you have full access to medical care during your time living and studying here.

Find out how to register with a GP.

5. Read the International Student Handbook

The International Student Handbook, available on our website, provides practical guidance for international students on living and studying in Chester, as well as details about the University’s central support services. 

6. Download the UoC App

The UoC App is essential for student life - you’ll use it to check into lectures, view your timetable, get event updates, and more. You can log in using the University login details included in your Welcome Email. Download the app here.

Download the app here.

7. View Your Timetable and Academic Resources

Your timetable will be available on the UoC App, including your Academic Induction sessions. These vary by course, so check the details carefully. More information about timetabling is available on our website.

Don’t forget to also explore the helpful resources shared by your course team here.

8. Access Your Student Email Account

Your student email address is in the format of studentnumber@chester.ac.uk

Click for more information on how to access your student inbox.

9. Set Up Multifactor Authentication (MFA)

To access University systems securely, you’ll need to use Multifactor Authentication (MFA). Download the Microsoft Authenticator app to your smartphone or tablet, and follow the MFA setup guide to complete your security setup before you arrive.

10. Complete Our Pre-Arrival Support Module

Our Pre-Arrival Support Module has been developed to help international students prepare for their move to the UK.  This short, interactive course covers everything you need to know before arriving and will provide you with the knowledge, skills, and understanding that are important for adjusting to university life in the UK. Register Here to Access the Module.  