Essential Westminster 2013-14-2

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- md d, bienvenidos, hua - n yíng, Khush a dobro požalovat’, and a very warm welcome to you. Well done for all your hard work and congratulations on getting a place at the University of Westminster. Starting university is a big deal and you’ll have lots of things to organise before and when you arrive. There will be forms to fill in, accommodation to find and funding facts to get to grips with. So, to help ease you into your new student life with us, we’ve created this how-to guide. The guide contains all you need to know about our services, resources and contacts, plus guidance on getting by in London. So get organised, get busy and throw yourself into your new life – we’re looking forward to welcoming you soon in person.

Introducing the Student Charter

Our Student Charter, produced jointly by the University and Students’ Union, sets out our responsibilities to you and what we expect of you in return. It’s designed to guide you through your time with us and ensure that we strive for and reach the highest standards. The charter isn’t a legally binding contract and isn’t intended to define or limit the legal rights and responsibilities of the University, the Students’ Union and each student. You’ll need to make sure that you’re aware of all University and Students’ Union documents that relate to being a registered student or member of the Students’ Union. You’ll also need to be familiar with the regulations, policies, procedures, protocols and guidelines issued by the University or Students’ Union.

Any thoughts ON THIS GUIDE?

Give us your feedback at westminster.ac.uk/essential-feedback

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Prepare for a busy few weeks. Before you join us there’s lots to do. You need to get your finances in order, find somewhere to live, find your way around – and find the documents you’re going to need to enrol with us.

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London is a big city and you might feel a little intimidated when you arrive. Here are a few facts about our capital to help you get acquainted.
• Over 300 languages are spoken in

A bit of history

London, more than in any other city in the world. eighth largest in Europe.

• If London was a country, it would be the

• When Londoners refer to ‘The City’ they

usually mean the financial district, east of central London and also called the ‘Square Mile’. old, making it the oldest underground railway in the world – don’t be surprised if things break down every now and then. is not actually underground.

You’re joining the University during a special year. If you’ve had a look at our website recently, you may have come across our 175th anniversary celebrations. It all began back in 1838, when Sir George Cayley opened the Polytechnic Institution at 309 Regent Street to show off new technologies and inventions to the public. It’s been an exciting journey since then – filled with innovation, achievement and growth. Find out all about your University’s history and how to get involved in this year’s anniversary celebrations at westminster.ac.uk/about-us/175-years

• London’s Tube network is 150 years

• 55 per cent of the London Underground

• ‘Big Ben’ is the name of the 13-ton bell,

not the clock tower – that is called St Stephen’s Tower. destroyed 80 per cent of the capital’s buildings.  

• The Great Fire of London in 1666

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Top ten for under a tenner
The great thing about London is that there’s so much on offer, you’re bound to find something that fits your tastes and purse. You just need to know where to look. 1 Bard on a budget For just £5 you can buy a ticket to watch a performance at the beautifully reconstructed Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre on the Southbank. The season runs from April to October, and 700 groundling (standing) tickets are available for every performance. 2 Cinema on the cheap The Prince Charles Cinema in Soho shows a mixed bill of blockbusters and cult classics. Weekend matinee tickets start from just £8 or £4 if you’re a member.

3 Make do and mend Clothes swapping events are being organised all over London, just have a look online. You can spruce up your wardrobe, meet new people and minimise your impact on the environment – all for free. 4 Gig give-aways No need to shell out big money for a concert. You can catch plenty of up-andcoming bands at pubs and clubs around town for free. Check out the Time Out website for listings of free music in London. 5 Cut-price cycling It costs £2 to sign up with Barclays Cycle Hire for 24 hours and hire fees start at £1 for up to an hour. Keep each journey under 30 minutes and your bike usage comes for free! 6 Thrifty theatre Young people aged 16–25 can sign up for the Entry Pass Scheme at the National Theatre (NT), which gives you the opportunity to buy £5 tickets – a set number of allocated seats are available for every NT show. The Royal Court also offers £10 tickets to Monday shows at both of its theatres. 7 Tate to Tate The Tate Boat runs every 40 minutes during gallery opening hours between Tate Britain and Tate Modern. It’s one of the best ways to see London away from the hordes. Advance single tickets are available from £4.30 with a travel card or London student card. 8 Free culture London leads the way when it comes to world-class museums and galleries with free entry. Take your pick from the British Museum, Natural History Museum, National Portrait Gallery, V&A, Museum of London and more. 9 Pocket-friendly picnics London is one of the world’s greenest capitals. Grab the cucumber sandwiches and lemonade and head to the manicured lawns of Regent’s Park, Holland Park, Hyde Park or Hampstead Heath. 10 Take a walk Criss-crossing London’s bridges and following the Thames Path (the longest riverside walk in Europe) is a great way to see London for nothing. Or book yourself onto a themed London walk – around £9 for a Jack the Ripper tour for example – to immerse yourself in historic London.

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Yes, London can be pricey. And when you first arrive you might be tempted to go on a spending spree. Here’s what you can expect to spend each week on essentials. Plan your money carefully – you don’t want to run out of funds and be living off baked beans for the last few months of your course. Rent: £100–£200 This is going to vary depending on whether you choose halls of residence or private accommodation. You can expect to pay between £95 and £194 a week for University halls. Private halls tend to start at around £170 per week and can exceed £350 for high-end specs and central London locations. If you’re in halls, remember that you’ll have to pay a deposit in advance. If you go for private accommodation, bear in mind that rent varies depending on the area of London, the type of accommodation and the number of people sharing. Most students travel in to our central London campuses from London Transport Travel Zones 2 and 3. For a room in a shared house you can expect to pay between £100 and £200 per week, not including bills. You’ll usually need to pay one month’s rent and a damage deposit (four to six weeks’ rent) in advance – make sure you have enough money to cover it (we recommend that you set aside about £1,500 for this).

Bills: £10–£25 Good news – if you’re a full-time student and live in University halls or in accommodation where everyone is a student, you won’t have to pay council tax. You will need to ask your Faculty Registry Office for a Council Tax Exemption Certificate and forward it to your local council. Research students should contact the Research Office for a certificate. The fees for halls include utility bills, but not telephone calls. If you live in private rented accommodation you’ll need to pay for heating, hot water and internet on top of your rent too. Food: £20–£30 If your food isn’t part of your halls of residence deal, this will probably be one of your biggest expenses. Club together with your flatmates and do a big weekly shop at a local market to make your money go further. Travel: £10–£25 Very few students can afford to live in Zone 1, so it’s more than likely you will have to pay up for travel costs. Make sure you enquire about the TfL Student Oyster card, and cycle or use the bus wherever possible – a single journey costs from just £1.40.

Course essentials: £10 You’ll need to put aside cash for books, photocopying and stationery. Make good use of the library and research the option of buying books second-hand to keep the costs down. Telephone: £10 minimum Get the best tariff for the way you prefer to communicate and shop around before you plump for that 24-month smartphone contract. Laundry: £5 You’ll need cash for washing your clothes every week, unless you’re in private rented accommodation with the luxury of a washing machine. Clothes and going out: £0– £??? How long’s a piece of string? The student experience is as much about the social life as it is about learning. Plan how much spare cash you’ve got to play with very carefully – this is a serious lifestyle decision. There are plenty of student discounts in London – take advantage of them.  

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Dear diary While you get to grips with managing your money you might want to keep a spending diary during your first two weeks. Get a pen and notebook or record every penny that goes out on your smartphone. You might be surprised to see where it all goes. Monday: Tube to uni and home: Cappuccino: Sandwich and crisps: Milk: House food shop: Internet: Three Corona: Total: Tuesday: Painkillers: Tube to uni and home: Course book: Electric: Flapjack: Total: Wednesday: Tube to uni and home: Cinema: Total: £5.60 £2.40 £4 60p £15 £10 £7.80 £45.40 59p £5.60 £7.99 £5 £1 £20.18 £5.60 £8 £13.60 Thursday: Tube to uni and home: £5.60 Coffee £2 Total: £7.60 Friday: Tube to uni and home: Pizza meal with drinks: Total: £5.60 £20 £25.60

Student finance
Starting a university course is a serious financial commitment, so it’s important that you do your homework and apply for funding as soon as possible. Get the latest news, support and application forms at: • direct.gov.uk/studentfinance (England) • studentfinancewales.co.uk (Wales) • studentfinanceni.co.uk (Northern Ireland) • saas.gov.uk (Scotland)

Help is on hand within the University at: Student Funding Office First Floor, Cavendish House 101 New Cavendish Street London W1W 6XH T: +44(0)20 7911 5716/5719 F: +44(0)20 7911 5858 E: [email protected] Student Advisers and Financial Capability Adviser First Floor, Cavendish House 101 New Cavendish Street London W1W 6XH T: +44(0)20 7911 5000 ext 66080 E: [email protected] Student Advisers at Harrow Watford Road Northwick Park Harrow HA1 3TP T: +44(0)20 7911 5000 ext 4023 F: +44(0)20 7911 5916 E: [email protected]

Saturday: Flat white: £2.40 Thai meal: £6.95 Total: £9.35 Sunday: Roast dinner: £7.95 Guinness: £3.20 Total: £11.15 Weekly spend: £132.88 

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Loans, grants and other financial support
This information is for UK and EU students. If you’re an overseas student take a look at the chapter International Arrivals.

Full-time undergraduate students Find out more: westminster.ac.uk/funding Get more info and apply: directgov.uk/studentfinance Most Home (UK) undergraduates and EU students will be eligible for a Tuition Fee Loan. Depending on where you live, you’ll need to apply to Student Finance England, the Student Awards Agency for Scotland (SAAS), Student Finance Wales or Student Finance Northern Ireland. If you’ve studied on a higher education course before, or you hold an equivalent or higher qualification, your entitlement will be affected. You can find more details at westminster.ac.uk/funding Part-time undergraduate students Part-time students who are studying at least 25 per cent of a full-time course are eligible to apply for a non-means-tested loan to cover the full cost of their tuition fees, up to a maximum of £6,750. For all part-time students, if you already hold a UK Honours degree or overseas equivalent, you won’t be eligible for the fee grant or fee loan. Again, check the funding website for more information.

Access to Learning Fund (ALF) If you’re a full-time or sandwich year Home student you can apply to the ALF to help meet the shortfall between your loan and living costs. Some part-time students can also apply. The ALF cannot be used to cover your tuition fees. Each application is assessed on its merits, and grants are not guaranteed. To find out more visit westminster.ac.uk/alf Emergency funds Even if you prepare financially for the start of the University year, we know that things can crop up that are out of your control. In these situations you may be able to obtain a small loan of £100 after you’ve enrolled. Speak to the Student Funding Office or Student Advice if you find yourself in this position.

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Tuition fees for taught courses
This information is for UK and EU students. If you’re an overseas student, have a look at the chapter International Arrivals. Check your course fees: westminster.ac.uk/fees To find out what’s included in your tuition fees, visit westminster.ac.uk/paying-your-fees

When do I pay? You pay in full before or at enrolment, unless you’re eligible to pay by instalment and have an agreement in place. In order to enrol, you’ll need to pay your tuition fees or provide us with a confirmation of your Tuition Fee Loan. If your sponsor fails to pay, please note you will be responsible for paying your tuition fees. If you choose to withdraw from your course or suspend your studies, you’ll need to complete either the Withdrawal from Studies Form or Suspension of Studies Form. You’ll need to complete it by the given deadline to avoid losing your refund entitlement. You can check the deadlines for withdrawing and suspending, and download the form at: westminster.ac.uk/withdrawing-orsuspending

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How do I pay? You have a few different payment options: • online by debit or credit card • by bank transfer • by cheque (GB £ or euro) • in cash (GB £ only) at one of our three cash offices (Cavendish, Harrow or Marylebone) • by banker’s draft. Please note: If you’re paying in a currency other than sterling, exchange rate variations apply. The amount will be exchanged at the ruling rate on the date of receipt. If you’re paying your fees directly to the University from an international bank overseas, bank charges will apply to the transaction – please make sure that these charges are paid for and the University receives your full tuition fee. When you make the transaction, you’ll need to include your name, course, and student number, so we know who the payment is coming from. You may be required to provide evidence that the payment has been made into the University bank account – you can ask your bank for a receipt. University bank details: Bankers: NatWest Bank plc Branch: Westminster Bank address: PO Box 3038 57 Victoria Street London SW1H 0HN Account name: University of Westminster Account number: 48303542 Sort code: 56-00-33 Swift code: NWBK GB 2L IBAN: GB95NWBK56003348303542

Can I pay by instalment? If your personal fee liability is more than £1,500 and you’re not eligible for a Tuition Fee Loan you can pay in instalments. You’ll need to arrange this with your local finance office. You’ll also need to complete an Instalment Agreement Form. If you’re starting your course in September 2013, you can pay in any number of instalments providing that these meet the following dates and proportions of your total fees: • 50 per cent at enrolment • 25 per cent by 1 December 2013 • 25 per cent by 31 January 2014. If you’re starting your course in January 2014: • 50 per cent at enrolment • 25 per cent by 31 March 2014 • 25 per cent by 30 April 2014. Please note that any number of monthly payments can be made, providing that they add up to these percentages and amounts. Prompt payment discount If your fees are over £7,000 and you pay the full amount by the end of enrolment week (and we confirm receipt of cleared funds), you may be eligible for a discount set at one per cent above the Bank of England base rate as at 31 January 2013. Sandwich year/year abroad For new students starting in 2013/14, there will be a charge for any sandwich year or year abroad. The charge will be 15 per cent of your annual course fee, to contribute to our administrative and academic costs.

Foundation Year If you’re a UK/EU student studying on a Foundation Year, you’ll be charged £6,000. The fee for international students is £11,370. All students who then enrol on and successfully complete a University of Westminster Bachelor’s degree programme will be eligible for a fee refund of half of their fees. What happens if I can’t pay? The payment of your fees is your responsibility and it’s important that you stick to the rules and deadlines. If you don’t pay by the appropriate deadlines, your ID card may be deactivated and you won’t be able to use University facilities, including our buildings and online resources. We also have the right to take legal action for the recovery of outstanding fees or other dues whether or not the debtor is currently a student of the University. If you’re worried about money and making your payments on time, don’t bury your head in the sand – speak to Student Advice as early as possible. They are there to help.

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Touchdown

With over 300 languages spoken and students from all corners of the globe, we are a very international community here at the University of Westminster. Moving to a new country is a big change and it might take you a bit of time to feel at home. It’s perfectly normal to feel a little lost and homesick – especially in your first few months. Use this guide to help you adjust to your new life as a Londoner and as a UK student – it’s here to hold your hand during your first few weeks and point you in the direction of advice and help if you need it.

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Heathrow AND GATWICK Meet and Greet
Don’t forget to pack: ceptance Our letter of ac GB sterling Travellers’ cheques or eks for your first few we
Book your place: westminster.ac.uk/ international-meet-and-greet To help you settle in, we’ll invite you to our International Student Welcome Programme. The programme includes lectures and talks, as well as social activities, so it’s a great way to meet other new students and start making friends. It’s free of charge, although if you don’t already have somewhere to stay, you’ll need to pay for your accommodation in University halls. Who is the programme for? All new international and European students who will be studying a full-time degree and who have been accepted on a course starting in September 2013 are welcome to attend. What are the benefits? The programme aims to: • help you settle in • help you meet other students who are new to the UK • give you the chance to ask questions. When and where will the Welcome Programme be held? The International Student Welcome Programme is normally held over a few days before your course starts. For times and dates and to book a place, visit westminster.ac.uk/ welcomeprogramme

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To pack or not to pack? Take a look at our handy checklist at: westminster.ac.uk/international-studentsessentials 

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Culture shock
Improve your academic English westminster.ac.uk/english-languagesupport Many international students experience ‘culture shock’ when they first arrive in the UK. But don’t panic – culture shock is just a temporary feeling when trying to adapt to a new language, climate, food, dress and set of customs. You might find it hard to concentrate, feel depressed or disorientated, but these feelings should pass within a couple of months. If you start experiencing these symptoms, there are a number of things you can do to limit their impact: • Keep in touch with your family and friends at home. • Make friends with other international students – they may well be feeling the same way and you can support each other. • Make friends with UK students as well – they can help you learn about life in the UK. • Find somewhere you can buy or eat familiar foods. • Surround yourself with familiar items like photographs, maps and postcards from home. The main thing to remember is that you’re not on your own. Our International Student Adviser, Counselling Service and Student Health Service are all here to help you settle in.

There are lots of different ways that you can get involved in university life outside classes too – the International Student Welcome Programme is a good place to start. You could also join one of the University’s sports teams or social clubs – have a look at the Students’ Union website for details, at uwsu.com

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LEARNING SHOCK
Get ready for life as a UK student at prepareforsuccess.org.uk Improve your academic English: westminster.ac.uk/english-languagesupport As well as getting used to a different language, culture and cuisine, you’ll also need to get to grips with UK teaching and studying methods – which can be quite different to those in your own country. So you might also experience ‘learning shock’ when you come face to face with these differences. You’re expected to take a lot of responsibility for your work. You’ll have to express opinions. You’ll be asked to work on your own and in groups. There will be reading lists and research to do.

Teaching methods

Your studies will be made up of a mixture of lectures and seminars. Lectures are large classes where a lecturer talks about a topic and students take notes. Students don’t usually have the chance to ask questions during a lecture. Seminars are smaller discussion-group classes. You’ll be expected to join in, give your opinions and ask questions. Read up on the subject of the seminar in advance so that it’s easier to contribute to the discussion. You may be asked to do a presentation to the other students on a particular subject – don’t worry, you will know about this in advance so you’ll have time to prepare. And don’t be afraid to disagree with your tutor or other students’ opinions.

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Visas

It’s very important that you read through the following information and understand all the different rules and requirements that apply to you. Got a visa query? The rules and guidance around visas change regularly. Stay up to date with the changes and find out how and when to apply at: ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/visasimmigration/studying westminster.ac.uk/visas Most International Students (non-EU or non-EEA students) will need a Tier 4 visa for the University of Westminster to study a full-time degree with us. If you have a visa for another academic institution, you’ll need to apply for a new Tier 4 visa for the University of Westminster before you can start your course. If you have an existing visa and are not sure if it’s the right one, ask for advice at [email protected] or call us on +44 (0)20 7922 5000 ext 66080.

Applying for the Tier 4 General Student Visa

• If you’ve paid the £4,000 deposit, your

You’ll normally need to apply for a Tier 4 General Student Visa to study for a degree with us. You’ll also need to apply if you’re a pre-sessional student and want to extend your visa in the UK to study for a degree. For information on what to do if you expect to arrive late for your course, wish to defer your place, decide not to come to the UK or hear that your visa has been rejected, visit westminster.ac.uk/visas Please note that the University is classified by the UK Border Agency as a Highly Trusted Sponsor. If you have a Tier 4 student visa we will have a duty to monitor your attendance and report unauthorised absences to the UK Border Agency. To apply you’ll need: • Your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS), see westminster.ac.uk/ international-students-cas • Bank statements no more than one month old showing the money for your fees plus maintenance of £9,000 if you’re studying in central London or £7,200 if you’re studying at the Harrow Campus. This money must be in your own bank account or your parents’ bank account for 28 consecutive days and must not drop below the required amount, not even for one day.

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CAS will confirm that £4,000 of your fees have been paid and you’ll only need to show that you have the money to cover your remaining fees plus your maintenance costs. • If you have paid for University halls accommodation (not including the halls at Wembley) then you can ask for up to £1,000 to be shown as paid on your CAS and will only need to show the remaining fees and maintenance costs. • Original qualifications (as listed on your CAS). • An ATAS certificate if you’re required to have one (check your CAS to see if you need this). • Your original birth certificate and a letter from your parents/legal guardian if you’re using your parents’/legal guardians’ financial evidence. The letter must confirm that you are their child and that they will pay for your fees and living costs while you study in the UK. You cannot be financially supported by any other relative, and rules about who is a legal guardian are strict. Make sure you ask for advice if you don’t have your money in your own account or your parents’ account. • Translations of any documents that are not in English (for the exact UK Border Agency criteria for translations, see westminster.ac.uk/visas). • If you’re a University of Westminster Scholarship student, your scholarship should be listed in the CAS, but you’ll also need a letter from the Scholarships Office.

Visit westminster.ac.uk/visas for information about what to do if: • you arrive late for your course • want to defer your place • decide not to come to the UK after all • have been told that your visa has been rejected. Please be aware that the University is classified by the UK Border Agency as a Highly Trusted Sponsor. If you have a Tier 4 student visa we will have a duty to monitor your attendance and report unauthorised absences to the UK Border Agency. There are also rules about the number of years you can study in the UK on an old style Student visa or a Tier 4 visa. Find out all you need to know about visas and the application process at westminster.ac.uk/visas

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Deposits for international students A deposit of £4,000 is payable by all international (non-EU) undergraduate and postgraduate students when you receive an unconditional offer. The deposit is not an additional fee – it’s part of your overall tuition fee. Deposit refunds Deposit refunds will only be made if one of the following applies: • Your visa application is refused and you provide us with the original. documentary evidence of the refusal • Your course is cancelled and there’s no satisfactory alternative. How do I get a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)? When we receive your deposit you’ll have reached the final stage of the admissions process. We’ll contact you to ask for a few more pieces of information, like your passport details and your history of studying in the UK. When you have provided us with this, we’ll email you a CAS number in a CAS statement. You will need this information for your visa application. If your visa is refused, we’ll ask you to send us the original documentary evidence of the refusal in order to receive a refund of your deposit. You won’t have to pay the deposit if: • you have a scholarship for more than 50 per cent of the tuition fees (including Fulbright and Chevening scholars) • you have a US Department of Education Direct Loan and have provided proof of this when you applied.

Money
Funding It’s crucial that you organise your money before you come to London. Money from part-time work won’t be enough to live on and there are no other sources of funding that will cover your living costs in the UK. In order to get your visa, you need to show that you have enough money in your account to pay for your fees and living costs. The amount of money you need is stated in the visa requirements. You’ll also need to think about the best ways of transferring money into the UK – your bank will be able to advise you on this. The most common methods to send money from abroad are international money order, international money transfer and banker’s draft. If you are travelling to the UK from outside the European Union and are carrying 10,000 euros or more (or the equivalent amount in another currency), you’ll need to complete a cash declaration form. For more information visit HM Revenue & Customs at hmrc.gov.uk/customs/ arriving/declaring-cash.htm

Students from the USA If you are a US student and want to take out a federal loan, contact the Student Funding Office or visit westminster.ac.uk/usloans Should I open a bank account? If you’re studying in the UK for six months or less it might be hard to set up a bank account and you need to consider whether it’s worth it for the short time you are here. If you are on a course for longer than six months though, a bank account is a good idea and you should set one up as soon as you can. Look out for the banking stalls during enrolment and orientation and keep your passport and University offer letter with you – you may be able to open an account on the spot. Which account? As an international student, you’ll usually be able to open either a basic bank account or an international student bank account. However, you may not be eligible for all the facilities offered to UK resident students and it may be difficult to open an account. Basic bank accounts A basic bank account has fewer benefits than an international student account, but is easier to open and there are no charges. International student bank accounts An international student bank account will have more benefits than a basic account, but you might need to keep a minimum balance or pay a monthly fee. A number of banks offer international student bank accounts, including: • Santander • Barclays Wealth • Bank of China • NatWest Bank.

Hints and tips: • Carry your passport and visa, your address details and your offer letters during enrolment. • Decide which bank stall you will be visiting. • Read about the bank accounts on offer beforehand, so you know if you want to open an account with a bank that will be coming to the University. • Take advantage of what is on offer at the University during enrolment, as high street banks may not be able to set up your account as quickly or may not offer international student accounts. When you go to open a bank account on the high street, you should take some documentation with you. Most banks ask you to bring: • a valid passport • a letter from the relevant Admissions Office or Faculty Registry Office saying you are enrolled • your Student ID card • evidence of your address • substantial evidence of funding for your studies • a letter of introduction from your bank at home is very helpful.

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University bank letters Most banks will ask for a University letter confirming your enrolment on a course and your UK address. Your Faculty Registry Office can provide you with the letter after you’ve enrolled – simply complete the Official Letter Request Form and submit it to the office. The form can be found at westminster.ac.uk/forms Bank letters may take a few days to prepare – check with your Faculty Registry Office. If you’re opening a bank account at one of the Santander bank stalls at the University, you will not need a bank letter – Santander on Tottenham Court Road normally accept Student ID cards during the enrolment period.

Working in the UK

Not sure if you can work in the UK? westminster.ac.uk/visas As a national of an EU/EEA country, you have the right to work in the UK. If you are from Romania or Bulgaria you will have fewer rights to work and will need to get authorisation to work. You can find out more about how to apply on the UK Border Agency website at ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/eucitizens/ bulgaria-romania/ If you have a Tier 4 General Student Visa for a degree course, you can normally work part time (up to 20 hours) during term time and unlimited hours during holidays. If you’re studying a course that’s below degree level, you can normally work up to 10 hours per week. If you’re a postgraduate student and haven’t finished your dissertation, you’re limited to working 20 hours a week, even outside term time. If you’re studying a sandwich course, you’ll be allowed to do a full-time work placement. If you’re in the UK on a student visitor visa you’ll not be allowed to work in the UK at all. Please make sure you follow the rules about working. If you work more hours than you should, you’ll be breaching your visa conditions – and that’s a very serious offence. There are certain types of work that you’re not allowed to do – check with the UK Border Agency for details. UK Border Agency http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk National Insurance Number (NINO) If you do start looking for a job, you’ll need to apply for a National Insurance Number by calling the National Insurance allocation line, on 0845 6000 643.

Finding a doctor
Visit nhs.uk and westminster.ac.uk/health-services The National Health Service (NHS) is a state-run service that provides free healthcare to eligible residents. It doesn’t provide free dental or optical care. Most people have to pay a standard charge for prescriptions. If you’re eligible, you’ll get: • free consultation with your GP • free hospital treatment at Accident and Emergency (A&E), minor injuries and walk-in units • free treatment with a specialist or consultant, if recommended by your GP • free contraception and sexual health services • free maternity services. On a course of six months or more and here on a Tier 4 visa? Good news – you’ll qualify for NHS healthcare. To register with a GP, you’ll need to get a letter from us confirming that you’re on a course of six months or more.

Registering with the police

Some international students will need to register with the police – check your visa to see whether you need to do so. If you need to register with the police, you’ll need to visit the Overseas Visitors Records Office within seven days of arriving in the UK. You should take your passport and registration charge (approximately £35) with you. Don’t forget to do this, as failure to register with the police will mean that you are in breach of your visa conditions. Overseas Visitors Records Office Brandon House 180 Borough High Street London SE1 1LH T: +44 (0)20 7230 1208 Opening hours: Monday–Friday, 9am–4pm content.met.police.uk/Site/ overseasvisitorsrecordsoffice  

If you’re on a course of less than six months You’ll get free treatment for emergencies, but not on an ongoing basis. So we strongly recommend that you arrange medical insurance before you arrive. Some countries have reciprocal health agreements with the UK including: • EU countries • Iceland • Norway • Liechtenstein. If you are from one of these countries you’ll be entitled to free NHS treatment, even if you’re studying on a course of less than six months. You’ll need to complete the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) form, which you can get from a post office in your country. If your family is coming with you to the UK Your immediate family’s rights to receive free medical treatment will be the same as yours if they’ve come as student dependants, but not if they’ve come on a visitor’s visa. If your family member is from the EEA they should bring their European Health Insurance Card with them.

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Accommodation
Halls of residence Our halls of residence are always popular, so if you want to live in halls, make sure you apply as soon as applications open. We do our very best to accommodate as many students as possible, but unfortunately can’t offer a place to every new student. If you are a first year undergraduate student and are successful in your halls application, you’ll be living in our new hall in Wembley or in Harrow Hall, depending on which campus you‘re studying at. Continuing and postgraduate students stay at one of our halls located across London. All our halls are within about 30 minutes of the University’s campuses by public transport. You can find information on all our hall locations and facilities, as well as photos and location maps at westminster.ac.uk/housing When can I apply? You can usually apply online from April. Keep an eye on the student accommodation webpages for an exact date and more details. If you’ll be studying as a full-year, full-time student, you should apply as soon as you have firmly accepted your course offer. If you’re an undergraduate student going through clearing, you’ll need to apply as soon as you’ve been accepted onto a course.

Private accommodation If you don’t get a place in halls, get in touch with our Student Accommodation Team for information on private accommodation. We have several partner halls that are owned and managed privately and that provide good quality halls-style accommodation for our students. The team also has an online list of available private-sector housing that you may find helpful. For more information about our halls and private housing options, visit westminster.ac.uk/housing

ation mmod dish House o c c A t n Studen Floor, Cave Street h d s i n d o n c Se Cave w e ac.uk 101 N W1W 6XH 187 inster. 5 n tm o 1 s d 1 e n 9 w o 7 L @ y (0) 20 dation T: +44 ntaccommo onday-Frida e M d , tu E: s –5pm 10am Open  

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Staying safe
Find your local police station met.police.uk Like most other major cities, London has its share of crime. But by taking a few simple preventative measures you can up your safety stakes in the city. Out and about • Never carry large amounts of cash around. • Always keep an eye on your belongings when you are in public places. • Shield your PIN when you’re at a cash machine. • Keep your bag and coat in the cloakroom in clubs. Taxi! Text CAB to 60835 and Transport for London will send you the numbers of one taxi and two licensed minicab firms nearby.

At home • If you live in private accommodation make sure your doors have a Yale lock and deadlock. Ground-floor windows should also have locks. • When you go out make sure you lock up properly – even if you’re just popping out for five minutes. • Make sure your valuables can’t be seen from the outside. • Insure your belongings and use a UV pen to mark your valuable items with an easy to recognise reference – your student ID number for example. On the road • Plan your route and make sure you know when the last Tube leaves. • Never use an unlicensed minicab. • If you’ve ordered a minicab, check when it arrives that it is the right one. Get insurance • Your belongings might be insured under your parents’ home insurance policy. If not, ask if cover can be purchased cheaply as an add-on. • Sometimes you can get a great deal on insurance as an add-on to your student bank account.

Register your mobile • Key *#06# to get your mobile’s unique registration number (IMEI). • Register your IMEI number at immobilise. com and if your phone is lost or stolen and later recovered by the police, they will be able to trace you as the owner. Online security Visit getsafeonline.org* for tips on: • protecting your PC from viruses, spyware and hackers • safe online shopping and protecting your identity • stopping electronic attacks on your mobile or smartphone. We provide free anti-virus software plus details of free virus scanners and antispyware software. Download yours at westminster.ac.uk/it-security * getsafeonline.org is a joint initiative between the Government, the police, leading businesses and the public sector.  

On the job A little extra always helps, and if you’re planning on supplementing your income with part-time work you’ll find plenty of job opportunities in London. Do take care when choosing your new job. Late-night shift work may pay a higher hourly rate, but could have a detrimental effect on your academic performance. Ideally try to find something that complements your studies, enhances your CV and increases your employability long-term.

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Career Development Centre
Find out more: westminster.ac.uk/careers By registering online with the Career Development Centre you get access to lots of work-related opportunities. The Centre offers a range of services, including: • career coaching • information on job placements, volunteering opportunities, part-time and vacation work and jobs on campus • advice on CVs and applications • interview practice • tips on job seeking • information and advice on enterprise. The team also organises employer-led events, networking evenings, confidencebuilding sessions and gives advice on how to sell yourself to a prospective employer. And this support doesn’t stop when you leave – after you graduate you’ll be entitled to a further three years’ free support and guidance from the Career Development Centre team. The Centre runs its own mentoring scheme which matches students with professionals in both the private and public sectors. This is open to all students. The Centre is also part of the National Mentoring Consortium to encourage equality of opportunity in graduate recruitment. You can find out more about our mentoring schemes at westminster.ac.uk/mentoring

Career Development Centre First Floor, Cavendish House 101 New Cavendish Street London W1W 6XH T: +44 (0)20 7911 5184 E: [email protected] Harrow Campus Room EG.16, Maria Hewlett Building Watford Road Northwick Park Harrow HA1 3TP T: +44 (0)20 7911 5184 E: [email protected]

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Get to grips with enrolment: westminster.ac.uk/enrolment Okay, so you’ve arrived, you’re ready to go, but where do you start? Before you can get your hands on your loan or grant, or borrow any books, you’ll need to attend your enrolment session. And in order to enrol you’ll need to pay your fees. Not paying your fees could mean that your ID card is deactivated and so you won’t be able to get into the University or use our facilities.

New students
Check the enrolment timetable: westminster.ac.uk/new-students Enrolment for new students happens in three main stages and it’s vital that you complete each stage, as failing to do so means you risk losing your place on the course.   You’ll also need to attend your scheduled orientation sessions, where you’ll receive important information about your course and the University.  For full details on how you’ll need to enrol, visit westminster.ac.uk/newstudents-enrolment  It’s important to know that when you sign your enrolment form, you’re agreeing to follow our policies, codes and procedures. You’ll need to check these from time to time and keep up to date with any changes. Find them at westminster.ac.uk/ policies-and-procedures  You should also have a look at our: • Handbook of Academic Regulations, at westminster.ac.uk/academicregulations • University calendar, at westminster.ac.uk/university-calendar

STUDENT MAINTENANCE LOAN AND GRANT

After you’ve completed stage three of enrolment, we’ll automatically confirm your attendance to Student Finance England (SFE). The first payment of your loan or grant will show in your bank account within five working days. We’ll need to see your SFE letters confirming financial support. You also need to check, when you enrol online, that the figures in your letter and those on the enrolment screen match. Please make sure that your local authority and SFE have your correct National Insurance Number, bank and address details.

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YOUR UNIVERSITY ID CARD
Read more at: westminster.ac.uk/student-id-cards As part of your enrolment session you‘ll get your University of Westminster ID card. There’s no need to bring a photograph – we’ll take a digital one on the day. Your card gives you swipe access to the University’s buildings and it’s also your library card and Students’ Union card.

YOUR UNIVERSITY EMAIL ACCOUNT
Student email accounts are provided by Google within the University of Westminster domain. All University correspondence will be sent to your University Google email account, so it’s crucial that you check it on a regular basis. If you wish, you can set up mail forwarding to another email account that you already use. Your University email account provides you with Mail, Docs, Calendar, Sites and many other Google Apps. As a user of any part of the University’s Information Systems, you are deemed to agree and abide by the Acceptable Use of IT Policy (AUITP). Read through the policy at westminster.ac.uk/ict-aup For more information about setting up and accessing your mail account, visit westminster.ac.uk/student-email-accounts

CONTINUING STUDENTS
Full-time students Simply enrol online. Details of enrolment will be emailed to your University email address before the start of term. If you have any problems logging on, contact your Faculty Registry Office. For more details on enrolment, visit westminster.ac.uk/current-studentsenrolment

Part-time students You’ll only be able to enrol online if you’ve notified your Faculty Registry Office of your selected modules for 2013/14 or if they have been allocated to your student record. If you miss the deadline for online enrolment, you’ll need to come in and enrol in person – you can contact your Faculty Registry Office for advice. If you’re retaking modules (you’ll have a status of ‘module retriever’ for 2013/14 on SRSWeb), you won’t be able to enrol online. Instead your Faculty Registry Office will email you before the start of the new academic session about what you need to do. If you’re unsure about your progression status for 2013/14 or have any other queries about enrolment, contact your Faculty Registry Office.

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So you’ve started your course and are making new friends. These pages are here to guide you through the early days as a student. They cover key information on study support, socialising and University services that can help you out if the going gets tough.

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The Students’ Union (UWSU)
Find out more at: uwsu.com Contact the team: E: [email protected] T: +44 (0)20 7911 5000 ext 65454 The University of Westminster Students’ Union (UWSU) is run by students for students. It is an independent organisation that is there to represent your needs, protect your rights and make sure your voice gets heard. You automatically become a member when you enrol. But it’s not all work, work, work. UWSU organises a variety of extra-curricular events and activities throughout the year. The Union is home to several sports clubs (known as the UWSU Dragons) and societies, plus its very own student media – Smoke magazine, Smoke Radio and Smoke TV. UWSU’s official entertainment group ‘So Fresh n So Clean’ hosts big club nights and social events, from the Freshers’ Finale to the End of Year Ball, and much more in between. The Union also organises trips abroad, including a very popular Amsterdam trip!

Freshers’ Fortnight Freshers’ Fortnight is a two-week calendar of social activities and events, designed to welcome back returning students and help new students settle in. There will be a Freshers’ Fair on each campus, where you can meet your Sabbatical Team (read more about them below), join sports clubs and societies, and find out about all sorts of activities and events. Also, don’t miss the Union’s Sports Trials, where you have the chance to compete against other universities in sports like football, rugby, basketball, netball, tennis and volleyball, to name a few. And to round it all off, there’ll be a massive Freshers’ Finale party held at a swanky London nightclub. Smoke Media Fancy writing for Smoke magazine, DJ-ing for Smoke Radio or producing a programme for Smoke TV? UWSU’s award-winning media teams are always on the lookout for new talent and contributors. If you’re hoping to get into Media, this will look great on your CV. Visit the Smoke stand at the Freshers’ Fair or email [email protected]. ac.uk to find out more. Listen to Smoke Radio at smokeradio.co.uk and watch the latest Smoke TV video clips on youtube.com/ westminstersmoketv

UWSU Sabbatical Officers Sabbatical Officers are elected student representatives who have either completed their degree or chosen to take a year off from their course to do this role. The Sabbatical Team is elected every year by students to represent them and champion student issues at a national level with the National Union of Students (NUS). There are five different sabbatical officer roles – one President, and four Vice-Presidents representing each campus. Visit uwsu.com for more information about our Sabbatical Officers and elections.

Academic advisers UWSU is there to offer advice and guidance throughout your time at the University. They are on hand to support you with issues on: • settling in • course advice • complaints • alleged assessment offences • mitigating circumstances • disciplinary hearings • emotional and mental health issues • sexual health. UWSU offices UWSU has four offices – one on each campus. Don’t be a stranger – pop in and see them. Cavendish UWSU office T: +44 (0)20 7911 5000 ext 64867 Harrow UWSU office T: +44 (0)20 7911 5000 ext 4413 Marylebone UWSU office T: +44 (0)20 7911 5000 ext 65070 Regent Street UWSU office T: +44 (0)20 7911 5000 ext 65454

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Bars and shops UWSU has two shops, a bar and a nightclub, all offering great products and entertainment at student-friendly prices. Undercroft, Harrow A busy student bar with a beer garden and live music. Hot and cold food is served throughout the day. Open on Monday 11am–1am, and Tuesday to Friday 11am–11pm. Area 51 nightclub, Harrow Hosts club nights, live music acts and fancy dress parties. Visit uwsu.com for the latest club nights. Students’ Union Shop, Cavendish The shop is stocked with all your daily essentials, including snacks, stationery and Halal sandwiches. Open Monday to Friday 9am–5pm. Students’ Union Shop, Harrow The shop sells a good selection of student essentials, from snacks and sandwiches to stationery, newspapers and blank DVDs. There’s a free cash machine next to the shop too. Open Monday to Thursday 9.15am–7pm, Friday 9.15am–6pm, Saturday 11am–5pm.

Like UWSU Like our Facebook page today: facebook.com/WestminsterSU Follow us on Twitter: @WestminsterSU

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STUDY RESOURCES
Blackboard Access Blackboard at: learning.westminster.ac.uk Blackboard is the University’s managed learning environment. It’s the online space where you can access learning resources, submit coursework and engage in online learning activities with other students. Your tutors will explain more fully how they intend to use Blackboard to teach you and support your learning. If you’re unable to access your module sites in Blackboard, check that you’re registered on the correct modules through SRSWeb. If the modules you are taking are not listed on your SRSWeb record, contact your Faculty Registry Office as soon as possible.  

SRSWeb – your online student record SRSWeb is the web interface to the Student Record System and is accessed via the current students webpage, at westminster.ac.uk/students You’ll soon get familiar with SRSWeb, as you’ll need to visit it regularly to check: • your timetable • your registered modules • your assessment marks. On SRSWeb, you can also: • make payments towards your tuition fees and view previous transactions • update the contact details we have for you if anything changes. Do we have the right contact details for you? Check and update your contact details on SRSWeb. Your timetable Access your timetable via: westminster.ac.uk/students You should check your online timetable on a regular basis, as module timetables do sometimes change. If you notice any timetable clashes with your core modules or any modules are missing from your timetable, let your Faculty Registry Office know as soon as possible. Note that if you haven’t paid your fees yet, you may not be able to access your timetable.

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Your modules and marks Module leaders sometimes post provisional assessment marks on Blackboard, but SRSWeb is your first and definitive source for checking your marks. If you think there are any marks missing, or you spot an error, get in touch with your Faculty Registry Office as soon as you can. You should also refer to SRSWeb to check which module you’re registered on.

Your student module profile table Lev Session
Short for ‘Level’. Indicates the module level. The academic year during which you were/ are registered for the module.

Relates to how many times you have attempted the module or its assessments.

Attmpt

Mark

Code

Slot

Each module has a unique sevencharacter code. You will need to include the relevant module code on coursework coversheets and in any module-related correspondence with Faculty Registry staff.

A threecharacter code used for administrative purposes.

The mark you have achieved for the module. Click on the mark to see a breakdown of individual assessment marks. Note that marks with an asterisk are provisional and may change following their consideration by an Assessment Board.

Module name POLYLANG SPANISH GRADE 1 AN INTRODUCTION TO ICT BUSINESS LAW

Code 1SPAP01 4BIM400 4FBL551

Lev 4 4 5

Credit 15 15 15

Core F C C

Session 2009/0 2009/0

Period Y SEM1 SEM2

Slot 1 4M1 1A1

Attmpt 1 1 1

Status Passed Passed Chosen

Mark 78 67

Credit

Each module has a credit value – usually 15 or 30 credits. To complete your course you will need to accumulate a set number of passed credits. For full details refer to Part 5 of the Handbook of Academic Regulations

Core

Indicates the module category (C=Core module, O=Option module and F=Free choice module).

Period

The semester during which the module runs (SEM1=Semester One, SEM2=Semester Two and Y=Year long).

westminster.ac.uk/ academic-regulations

Status

Indicates whether or not you have passed the module. The main statuses displayed are: Chosen – a chosen module that has not yet been confirmed and registered on your list of modules Taking – a module that has been confirmed and registered on your module list, but for which there are not yet any marks Passed – a module that you have passed Failed – a module that you have failed None – a module you are registered on for which you are awaiting marks Incomplete – a module you have attempted for which you have outstanding re-assessment Condoned Credit – information on Condoned Credit status is available at westminster.ac.uk/results-and-awards by clicking on ‘Student Module Profile Notes’.

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Faculty Registry Offices Faculty Registry Offices provide administrative support and can give you advice on a range of issues relating to enrolment and module registration, coursework and exams, procedures, regulations and letter requests. It’s also where you’ll submit hard copies of coursework. You’ll want to check your Faculty Registry Blackboard site regularly for important announcements, course handbooks and other information. Contact details for your Registry Office can be found at westminster.ac.uk/facultyregistry-offices Course handbooks Your course handbook contains key information about how your course is taught and managed, and how you’ll be assessed. Information about academic regulations and where to go for help if you need it are included in the handbook. You can also use it to find out about your programme specification and the knowledge, skills and attributes you can expect to have gained after the successful completion of each academic level of your course. Course handbooks are available on your Faculty Registry Blackboard site.

Tutorial support Personal tutoring is a crucial aspect of student support and it’s there to help you fulfil your academic and personal potential. Go to your personal tutor for help with matters that may be affecting your study. They can also direct you to other University support services or put you in touch with a senior tutor, disability tutor, or counsellor for specialist advice if appropriate. Remember that it’s your responsibility to ask for advice from your personal tutor and keep appointments with them. It’s also up to you to make sure that you’re aware of and understand our assessment regulations. Get advice from your personal tutor if you need help with: • choosing option modules • study skills • programme planning. Personal Development Planning (PDP) Personal Development Planning (PDP) gives you the chance to reflect on, document and showcase your studies and achievements at the University. It helps you take responsibility for your own learning, review what you’ve achieved so far and plan for the future. PDP is integrated into every course, but the approach and how it’s implemented may vary. Get more information on PDP in your course handbook or just ask your course leader.

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Libraries and computing For more information visit: westminster.ac.uk/library When you are enrolled and have your student ID card, you’ll be able to use the University’s library and IT services, borrow library items and use the printers and photocopiers. There are four campus libraries and each holds a collection of books, journals, DVDs and specialist materials that cater for the subjects taught at that campus, as well as general learning resources. You can access e-books and e-journals online via westminster.ac.uk/librarysearch Academic Liaison Librarians are based at each campus and can offer you advice and training on using the resources available. You’ll find a range of study areas in each library for group and independent study, plus computer rooms with computers, photocopiers, scanners and printers. Specialist software for your particular course is available in some rooms – check with your course tutors. If you want to use your own laptop, or borrow one from the library, you can use our wireless network anywhere on our campuses. Computers with assistive technology are available at each campus and each library has a contact person who can offer advice. If you need IT support, pop into one of the IT Drop In Centres, which operate from the library counters at set times. You can also get help online via fixitcentre. westminster.ac.uk where an IT Analyst will get back to you. Alternatively call 020 7915 5488 for help over the phone 24 hours a day.

Pick up a Library and IT Service user guide from your library for full details of the services. The guide covers plenty of useful topics, including: • passwords • using library services • accessing library resources on-site and at home • finding books, journals and past exam papers • requesting and renewing library items online • wireless access on campus and getting internet access at other universities • copying, printing and scanning • how library and IT training can support you • how Academic Liaison Librarians can help you. Cavendish Library University of Westminster 115 New Cavendish Street London W1W 6UW T: +44 (0) 203 506 4050 or 4051 Harrow Library University of Westminster Watford Road, Northwick Park, Harrow, Middlesex HA1 3TP T: +44 (0) 203 506 7920 Marylebone Library University of Westminster 35 Marylebone Road London NW1 5LS T: +44 (0) 203 506 7063 Regent Library University of Westminster 4–12 Little Titchfield Street London W1W 7UW T: +44 (0) 203 506 9614

ACADEMIC WRITING AND STUDY SKILLS

If you would like to develop your academic skills – in particular your academic writing skills – there are a number of services and online resources to help you. You’ll find details of workshops and information on one-to-one advice at westminster.ac.uk/learning-and-studyskills-support

ACADEMIC ENGLISH MODULES
Find out more: westminster.ac.uk/englishlanguage-support Our Academic English (AE) modules are there to enhance your knowledge and use of academic English. They are available to undergraduate, masters and PhD students. The modules address a variety of areas relating to university studies, such as: • writing for academic purposes • giving academic presentations • referencing sources correctly • increasing your ability to use a wide range of academic vocabulary and writing styles. When you’ve completed the module, you’ll be able to: • write essays and reports confidently using appropriate academic English • analyse sources critically and use them effectively in your writing and presentations • participate fully in academic seminars and discussions.

If you are an undergraduate and think you need support with your academic English, you should consider taking an AE module as an option module – this may also count towards your degree. If you’d like to register for an AE module, you’ll need to do so at the beginning of the academic year. As a masters or PhD student, you can take an AE module as an additional module. This won’t count towards your degree, but it will appear on your degree transcript. You’ll need to pay an additional fee for the module, but you may be eligible for a fee waiver – check with your course leader. Further information on this will also be provided during your enrolment. E-mentoring A number of courses offer support to new students from continuing students by email. Check with your course leader whether the e-mentoring scheme is available to you.

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Polylang – the University’s open language programme Find out more at: westminster.ac.uk/polylang If you’d like to learn a new language or refresh one you already speak, have a look at our Polylang programme. It offers a range of assessed and accredited language modules that may be counted towards an undergraduate degree, if studied at an appropriate level. You can even start a new language as a complete beginner. What languages do we offer? • Arabic • Chinese • French • German • Italian • Japanese • Russian • Spanish. Who is Polylang for? Various ability levels are catered for and both undergraduates and postgraduates can register. If you’re an undergraduate student, you can complete Polylang as one of your option modules and it may contribute towards your final degree classification. To find out more, have a look at Part 5, Section 17 of the Handbook of Academic Regulations at westminster.ac.uk/academic-regulations If you’re a postgraduate student, you can study Polylang as an additional module, but it won’t contribute towards your degree and you’ll need to pay an extra fee. When do lessons take place? Different timeslots are available to fit in with your schedule. For more information visit westminster.ac.uk/polylang
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University bookshops Find out more: westminster.ac.uk/university-bookshops At the on-site bookshops at Cavendish and Marylebone, you can access the following: • student book account scheme to get discounts on all books, all year round • second-hand books • fast book orders • stationery and architects’ materials at Marylebone • University-branded hoodies, t-shirts and other merchandise. Cavendish: T: +44 (0)20 7915 5432 E: [email protected] Marylebone: T: +44 (0)207911 5049 E: [email protected]

STUDENT ADVICE

The team at Student Advice is on hand to help with all your money-related matters and to offer visa advice to international students. The service is available throughout the year in central London and during term-time at our Harrow Campus. The team offers practical advice on issues like: • student funding • tuition fees • social security benefits • tax and national insurance • effects on funding when suspending or changing your course • funding advice for EU students • visa advice for international students. Financial capability adviser We have a specialist financial capability adviser who can offer advice on managing your money and avoiding or dealing with debt.

International student advice The International Student Adviser is there to help when you first arrive in the UK. One-to-one support is also available for international students who are struggling to settle in. Care leaver advice We offer support to students who have been in care and provide tailored, confidential advice through the Student Advice and Counselling services. For more information, visit westminster.ac.uk/care-leavers-advice E: [email protected] E: [email protected] T: + 44 (0) 20 7911 5000 ext 66899

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COUNSELLING SERVICE
westminster.ac.uk/counselling E: [email protected] Our professional and experienced counsellors offer a one-to-one service to students plus group sessions where you can work through problems. Students use the service for a range of personal and emotional issues, including study anxieties, relationship problems and depression. A mentoring service is also available to support students with long-term mental health problems. If something’s bothering you, you don’t have to grin and bear it – contact the service for help.

Counselling service Marylebone Campus Luxborough Suite 35 Marylebone Road London NW1 5LS T: +44(0)20 7911 5000 ext 66899 Counselling service Harrow Campus Maria Hewlett Building Watford Rd Harrow HA1 3TP T: +44 (0)20 7911 5000 ext 68229

DISABILITY LEARNING SUPPORT
For more information, visit: westminster.ac.uk/disabilities The term ‘disability’ is used to cover a wide variety of conditions, not just those that are visible. Any condition that has a long-term impact on carrying out day-to-day activities or study is defined as a disability. This includes dyslexia, dyspraxia, ADD/ ADHD Asperger’s, long-term chronic medical conditions such as ME or serious back injury, or long-term mental health problems. Students with disabilities are very welcome at the University and there are various ways in which we support you, including: • helping you identify possible sources of funding • organising library support • arranging specialist study skills tuition for students with dyslexia • making individual exam arrangements • screening for dyslexia (please note this is an additional service carried out in less-busy periods and is not available at all times of the year).

If you have a disability, you are encouraged to disclose it and register with our Disability Learning Support team. They’ll discuss with you the likely effects of your disability on your studies and work out what appropriate support arrangements you might need. Get in touch with the team as early as possible, to allow sufficient time to put any arrangements in place. When you register, we’ll ask you to provide up-to-date medical evidence or, if you have a specific learning difficulty, an up-to-date diagnostic report carried out by a qualified practitioner. Disability Learning Support First Floor, Cavendish House 101 New Cavendish Street London W1W 6XH T: +44 (0)20 7911 5163 E: [email protected]

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STUDENT HEALTH
Find out more: westminster.ac.uk/studenthealth E: [email protected] Our nurse-run health service is open during term-time and we can treat most minor ailments and injuries. We have clinics at both the Harrow and Marylebone Campuses, and a doctor is available by appointment via the nurses. We also offer guidance and support for students with ongoing and chronic conditions. Other services include advice on travel health, immunisations, sexual health, contraception, lifestyle issues and dental treatment. Even if you visit the nurse, you’ll still need to register with an NHS doctor if you’re eligible. Harrow Campus Room EG5 Watford Road Northwick Park Harrow HA1 3TP T: +44 (0)20 7911 5163 ext 4107 M: +44 (0)78 7937 7365 Marylebone Campus Luxborough Suite 35 Marylebone Road London NW1 5LS T: +44 (0)20 7911 5186 M: +44 (0)78 04622 236

POLYCLINIC
Find times and book treatments: westminster.ac.uk/polyclinic The University can offer complementary therapies at reduced prices, and students and staff get further concessionary rates to make it even more affordable. The Polyclinic is our specialist teaching and research clinic and offers its services to students, staff and the general public. No referral is needed and treatment is given or observed by advanced-level complementary medicine students, under the supervision of experienced practitioners. Therapies available include: • acupuncture • Chinese herbal medicine • Western herbal medicine, or phytotherapy • nutritional therapy • naturopathy • Qigong Tuina. Call or email to make an appointment: T: +44 (0)20 7911 5041 E: [email protected]

FAITH AND SPIRITUALITY
Find out more at: westminster.ac.uk/faith-and-spirituality We’re a diverse community at the University of Westminster and understand that faith and spirituality play important roles in the lives of many students and staff. We’re also committed to promoting understanding and dialogue between all people, regardless of religious and other affiliations. Our faith advisers come from a broad range of religious traditions. You’ll find quiet spaces for prayer, meditation and contemplation on all four campuses. Friday prayers are arranged on campus by the Islamic Society. We also have an Interfaith Adviser, who: • provides support for the pastoral, spiritual, ethical and religious needs of all students and staff • promotes and enhances interfaith relationships in the University community • manages and facilitates the work of Volunteer Faith Advisers, assistants and other team members. Contact the Faith and Spirituality team E: [email protected]

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Instead of just turning up and getting on with things, why not use your time with us to really make a difference? There are lots of ways you can get involved, whether you’re green fingered, a team player or fancy representing your fellow students at a national level. What’s more, taking on extra roles and activities while you’re here is an excellent way to enhance your CV and impress prospective employers.

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Student ambassadors
Inspire young learners at: westminster.ac.uk/ambassadors Who can join and what does it involve? If you’re a good communicator, enthusiastic about life at the University of Westminster, and interested in enhancing your CV with valuable work experience and transferable skills, this scheme is for you. As a Student Ambassador you’ll have the chance to share your knowledge and passion with young people across the UK. You’ll represent the University in a variety of activities, from open days and launches, to visits to schools and colleges. You’ll also deliver talks on student life and courses at the University. What are we looking for? You’ll need to be confident, outgoing and a good communicator to be considered for the role. What are the benefits? In exchange for your time and energy, you’ll receive training to develop and enhance your skills and confidence, as well as payment for the work you do. The hours will be ad hoc to fit in with your study schedule. How do I join? If you’re interested, contact Jamie O’Hara. Application forms will be available from July 2013 and recruitment takes place from September 2013. Jamie O’Hara Outreach Officer T: +44 (0)20 7911 5000 ext 66251 E: [email protected]

Student Exchange Opportunities
For details see: westminster.ac.uk/student-exchanges We run more than 100 student exchanges with institutions in Asia, mainland Europe, the Americas and Australasia. These exchanges allow Westminster students to spend a semester or year studying or working on a placement abroad, and are an amazing opportunity to live and learn in another country. As part of its exchange offerings Westminster is also an active participant in the Erasmus programme which is supported by the European Commission and Westminster has over 60 Erasmus partnerships. For students studying or working on an Erasmus exchange grants towards living expenses can be applied for.

Making your voice heard

We value your opinion and will often ask for your thoughts and feedback on the way we do things. Don’t be shy about speaking out. By telling us how you feel about your course, our facilities and the way we work, you can help shape the future of your University. Student surveys For more information visit: westminster.ac.uk/studentsurveys Online student surveys are an important opportunity for you to have your say and influence change. Your feedback helps us monitor, improve and enhance our performance and, ultimately, helps ensure that all students have the best possible experience with us. The surveys, which are administered by or on behalf of the University, are issued at set times during the year. International and Research Degree students will receive a number of tailored surveys during their studies. Student Module Evaluation For more information visit: westminster.ac.uk/sme The online Student Module Evaluation (SME) is sent to all undergraduate and taught postgraduate students. It’s a convenient, secure and confidential way of giving us your thoughts on your course modules. Your feedback offers academic staff a valuable insight into your expectations and needs, and helps shape future developments. Student Experience Survey and National Student Survey The online Student Experience Survey (SES) and National Student Survey (NSS) are specifically designed for different student groups. The SES is an annual survey for nonfinal-year undergraduates and taught

postgraduates. It asks students to reflect on their academic experience and related resources and support. The survey is administered by the University’s Planning Office and supported by the Students’ Union. The NSS is principally for final year undergraduate students. It’s a unique opportunity to give us your opinions on your overall course and University experience. Undergraduates across the UK take part in the survey and the results provide essential comparative information for universities and student unions. The survey is commissioned by the Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE) and is carried out by an independent body, Ipsos-Mori. The results are published in the autumn term on the Unistats website, at unistats.direct.gov.uk Student reps Become a student representative: westminster.ac.uk/student-representation Student representatives are elected each year by fellow students on their course. They ensure that your views and comments are heard and acted on. Each course has a committee which is made up of lecturers, support staff and students. Its role is to examine and discuss the course and its development. Student representatives play a crucial part at the meetings, providing student feedback and raising any issues that are affecting students. Student representatives will also be invited to join University and faculty groups. If you’re thinking of becoming a student representative, speak to your course leader. If elected, you’ll receive training and support in preparation for your role, which will also leave you with valuable transferable skills.

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Sport and leisure
Find out more at westminster.ac.uk/sport-and-leisure The Regent Street Gym and Harrow Sports Hall offer fitness assessment, exercise prescription, body composition measurement and one-to-one personal training.

Regent Street Gym Regent Street Gym boasts state-of-the-art facilities: • extensive modern resistance and cardiovascular equipment • free weights • functional training area • spinning suite • studios • boxing bag studio. Changing rooms are available and there is full wheelchair user access to facilities and equipment. T: +44 (0)20 7911 5892 E: [email protected]

Harrow Sports Hall The hall accommodates a broad mixture of sports: • badminton • basketball • cricket nets • five-a-side football • netball • volleyball. There is also a fully equipped fitness suite with modern resistance and cardiovascular machines. T: +44 (0)20 7911 5965 E: [email protected]

Chiswick Sports Ground The sports ground at Chiswick was established over a century ago, in commemoration of our founder, the philanthropist Quintin Hogg. Few grounds in the area can compare in the number, quality and range of natural and synthetic pitches on offer. The extensive grounds are suitable for a huge range of sports, including football, rugby, hockey, lacrosse, cricket, tennis, and netball. The facilities also include a pavilion, bars and function rooms, and the boathouse has a bar and balcony overlooking the River Thames together with extensive boat storage. T: +44 (0)20 8995 6863 E: [email protected]

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Sustainability
Have a look at our new sustainability blog: blog.westminster.ac.uk/sustainability You might also want to sign up to our sustainability mailing list: [email protected] Green thinking is at the heart of everything we do. Our common goal is to respect the planet and we are committed to sustainable practices, both on the global stage and in our own working environment. We know that with over 22,000 students and around 2,500 staff, our University has a significant impact on the environment and we’ve launched a number of flagship projects and initiatives to reduce our footprint. We are a Fairtrade University In 2012 the University became a Fairtrade University, so you’ll find an increasing number of Fairtrade products for sale, including tea, coffee and chocolate. By buying these products you’ll help producers in developing countries get a better deal. If you’d like to join our steering group or get more involved in sustainability issues, email us at [email protected] To find out more about Fairtrade, visit fairtrade.org.uk

The LiFE Index In 2011 the University played a leading role in the consultation process that led to the development of the LiFE (Learning in Future Environments) Index. LiFE has been specifically designed to enable colleges and universities to manage, measure, improve and promote their social responsibility and sustainability performance. The University signed up to the LiFE Index for assessment and accreditation in 2012. Community Food Growing Project Grow your own food and help us create a fresh green space in the city by joining the Marylebone Food Growing Project. You can learn how to grow your own, enjoy delicious produce for free and meet others who love doing the same. For more information email [email protected] or contact the Students’ Union. Green Impact This nationwide programme promotes simple but effective ways to reduce our environmental impact. Although aimed mainly at university staff, you can get involved by becoming one of our new Green Impact Project Assistants – a great way to boost your CV with new skills and experience, as well as helping us assess and enhance our environmental performance. For more information, email [email protected]

Student Switch Off If you’re staying in halls, you can do your bit for the planet by taking part in Student Switch Off – a not-for-profit campaign that runs competitions at university halls across the UK to reduce electricity usage. Win prizes like Ben and Jerry’s ice cream and Lush cosmetics for being the hall or flat that uses the least energy and recycles the most. Find out more about Student Switch Off at studentswitchoff.org Go Green Week Our annual Go Green Week plays host to a range of activities and events, from film screenings and talks to competitions and special offers. We’re always looking for students to get involved in organising the week, so contact May MacKeith, our Sustainability Behaviour Assistant, with your ideas and suggestions at [email protected] Well-being Day Are you taking care of yourself? Make sure you’re staying fit and healthy at our annual Well-being Day, where we promote healthy lifestyles, offer free advice and medical checks, and give information on environmental initiatives. The event is open to all students and staff. People & Planet The People & Planet network lets you take action on world poverty and environmental protection. It’s made up of students from across Britain, with groups currently established at 71 UK institutions. Visit peopleandplanet.org.uk or check with the Students’ Union for more information.

Environmental Action Team If you’re passionate about sustainability, join the University’s Environmental Action Team. You’ll have the chance to contribute to how the University addresses sustainability and boost your CV by learning new skills. For more information email [email protected] Top tips Every individual at the University can make a difference by reducing their environmental impact – together our actions can create real change. To help us live up to our core values, make sure that you: • avoid creating waste, and re-use, reduce, recycle before you put something in the bin • use public transport, cycle or walk whenever possible, and if you need to drive, think about car sharing – see
• don’t leave your appliances on standby

gocarshare.com

– one million tonnes of greenhouse gases are pumped into the atmosphere every year by appliances left on standby in the UK • try to eat less meat and more local, organic food, which requires less energy to get to your plate • minimise your flights – aviation is the fastest growing cause of climate change, so only fly if you really need to • get involved, find out what’s going on at Westminster and how you can help make our environment better.

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Farewell to final year students

Well that flew by. You’ve completed your course and now it’s time to head out into the big, wide world. But before you leave, there are a few things to take care of. Here’s the information you’ll need to get you to graduation, get your certificate and keep in contact – your University of Westminster experience doesn’t have to end here.

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Hungry for more?
westminster.ac.uk/postgraduate-evenings If you’re interested in continuing your studies, our postgraduate information evenings give you the opportunity to discuss course content with academics and speak to current students about their experiences.

PRESENTATION CEREMONIES
Find out more at: westminster.ac.uk/ceremonies Presentation ceremonies are one of the major highlights of the year, and give you the chance to celebrate your achievements with your family, friends and colleagues. We aim to publish the dates for graduation online by January. If you’re eligible, you’ll be contacted about two months prior to your ceremony, with full attendance and booking details. To guarantee your place and that of your guests, make sure you complete your application by the given deadline. If you don’t receive your invitation and believe you‘re eligible to graduate, it’s your responsibility to contact the Ceremonies and Conferments Team as soon as possible. Ceremonies and Conferments Team T: +44 (0)20 7911 5119 E: [email protected]

THE DESTINATIONS OF LEAVERS FROM HIGHER EDUCATION SURVEY (DLHE)
The Destinations of Leavers from Higher Education Survey (DLHE) is conducted at all higher education institutions in the UK. It records the employment and further study status of all UK and EU graduates six months after they have completed their course. The results of the survey are submitted each year to the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA) and contribute to national league tables. They are also published as part of the Key Information Sets on the Unistats website at unistats.direct.gov.uk

ALUMNI SERVICES
Sign up at: westminster.ac.uk/alumni When you graduate, you automatically join a global alumni community which has over 140,000 members worldwide. As one of our alumni, you’ll be eligible to receive a variety of benefits including invitations to networking events, an annual alumni magazine, quarterly e-newsletters, dedicated careers advice and a free alumni swipe card so you can still return and visit the University after you leave. Alumni online community Connect with the University and other alumni by signing up to our Facebook or LinkedIn group by searching for ‘University of Westminster Alumni Association’.

TRANSCRIPTS

Your final transcript of results is an official record of learning and achievement. It shows all the modules you’ve successfully completed, your academic credits and your overall percentage mark for each module. Faculty Registry Offices send out transcripts at the end of the academic session. Note: If you’ve not paid all your fees, you won’t receive your transcript until the balance has been cleared.

AWARD CERTIFICATES

Your award certificate is sent in the months following the final assessment board meeting for each course. Your certificate is sent to your home address, not your termtime address. Please make sure that your name and address details are up to date before your award is issued.

CAREER DEVELOPMENT CENTRE SERVICES

ACADEMIC REFERENCES

After graduation you might need an academic reference for an employer or for further study. You should choose an academic who is familiar with you and your work, such as a course leader, personal tutor or dissertation, project or work placement supervisor. You should always ask their permission before you give their name as a referee.

Remember, you can continue to use the services of the Career Development Centre, free, for three years after finishing your course.

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In this section, you’ll find an overview of some of our key codes, regulations and policies. If you want to check exam guidelines, find out what your results mean, or want to take a break from your studies, these pages will point you in the right direction.

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Your rights and responsibilities Rights: • To attend the University and participate in academic and extra-curricular activities in an environment of mutual respect for diversity, free from prejudice or discrimination. • To be treated with dignity and respect, without threat of bullying, harassment or intimidation. • To receive tuition as published in the module syllabus or to receive reasonable notice of any changes in the course or module. • To expect the University to provide tuition, supervision, assessment and support of a professional standard. • To expect the University to act reasonably and fairly in exercising its powers under its • published rules, regulations, policies and procedures. • To be able to raise concerns about the running of a module or course, or to complain about the quality of academic or service delivery if it falls short of the standard reasonably expected. • To have freedom of speech without jeopardising other people’s rights. • To have information processed and request information in accordance with the Data Protection Act and the Freedom of Information Act. Responsibilities: • To complete the enrolment process for the named award at the beginning of each academic session or semester as specified. • To ensure that all work submitted for individual assessment is attributable wholly to you, with proper references to sources used. You should keep a copy of all coursework submitted for assessment, on a disk or hard copy. • To abide by the University’s Diversity and Dignity at Work and Study Policy and other policies relating to the treatment of fellow students and staff. • To obtain, read and be familiar

with the full University regulations and to accept the jurisdiction of the University on all academic and disciplinary matters. • To submit work by the published deadline and to attend exams for assessment as required. • To advise Disability Learning Support of any disability or difficulty on the basis of which you are requesting special exam or assessment arrangements. • To ensure that you are registered for any module for which you are submitting work for assessment. • To advise your Faculty Registry Office, in writing and by the published deadlines, if you are withdrawing from a course or intending to suspend your studies. Failure to do so will normally result in non-submission of work/ nonattendance at exams being recorded as failure and may also result in a loss of fees or loan entitlement. Regulations, codes and policies Read more at: westminster.ac.uk/ policies-and-procedures We need rules and regulations to make sure we run smoothly. They help us operate fairly, with consistency and transparency. We’ve highlighted some of the key areas below, but the information here isn’t exhaustive. Have a look at our Handbook of Academic Regulations too, at westminster.ac.uk/ academic-regulations As well as following our regulations, you’ll need to be familiar with our Student Code of Conduct, which describes how you’re expected to behave while at the University. It gives examples of the kinds of actions that breach the code and that prompt us to take disciplinary action against you. Our Student Code of Conduct and Student Disciplinary Procedure can be found at westminster.ac.uk/ student-code-of-conduct We also have a range of policies and codes that underpin everything we do, including:

• Code of Practice for Students with

Disabilities • Code of Practice on Supporting Students with Mental Health Problems • Diversity and Dignity at Work and Study Policy • Environment Policy • Health and Safety Policies and Procedures • Information Communications Technology (ICT) Acceptable Use Policy • Library Regulations • Race Equality Policy • Religion and Belief Policy. Academic conduct See Part 3 Section 10 in the Handbook of Academic Regulations. From coursework to in-class tests and exams, you’ll be expected to follow a particular set of rules, and any breach of these regulations is considered an assessment offence. We treat assessment offences very seriously and penalties will be imposed on any student who commits them. It’s vital that you familiarise yourself with the relevant sections in the Handbook of Academic Regulations to avoid this happening to you. Examples of assessment offences can include: • presenting another person’s ideas in an essay, or other piece of work, without the correct acknowledgement or attribution, as if they were your own ideas • working together with classmates on an assignment that you have been expected to complete by yourself • copying, or attempting to copy, someone else’s answers in an exam • obtaining, or attempting to obtain, assistance in the production of a piece of assessment, eg the use of an essay-writing service. Academic referencing and plagiarism See Part 3 Section 10 in the Handbook of Academic Regulations. Find the facts at: westminster.ac.uk/ academic-conduct

When you’re doing your research, you’ll use a variety of sources including webpages, books, magazines, and newspapers. Academic referencing is when you identify these sources and acknowledge the original authors. You must always fully reference your work to avoid committing plagiarism. Plagiarism is using another person’s words or ideas and presenting them as if they were your own, without acknowledging the original author. Plagiarism is an assessment offence and carries strict penalties. Exam and coursework assessment Assessment is a critical part of student life and takes careful planning and preparation. You need to be aware of the procedures and regulations surrounding the different types of assessment you’ll be asked to undertake. Coursework assessment See Part 3 Section 6 in the Handbook of Academic Regulations for: • submission and return of coursework • penalties for late submission of coursework • in-class tests. Exam assessment See Part 3 Section 7 in the Handbook of Academic Regulations for: • publication of exam timetables • what you may and may not do in an exam • what to do in the event of severe disruption to public transport on the day of an exam. Individual exam and assessment arrangements See Part 3, Section 8 in the Handbook of Academic Regulations for information on how to request special arrangements for exams and assessments if you have a disability or specific learning disability.

Publication of results See Part 4 Section 15 in the Handbook of Academic Regulations. How can I check my results? SRSWeb is your definitive source for checking your marks. Your provisional results can be viewed as they become available throughout the year on SRSWeb and you can also get a Module Profile Report from your Faculty Registry Office. If you’re a final year student, a transcript of your results is posted to your home address. An award certificate is also posted to final year students in the months following the final Assessment Board meeting for each course. Make sure you let your Faculty Registry Office know if your home address changes. It’s your responsibility to obtain your results in good time – within five working days of the official publication date. If you’ve not paid all your fees you’ll not be able to access your results. Not sure what your results mean? Read the Student Module Profile Notes for an explanation of key terminology and an overview of any follow-up action required, westminster.ac.uk/ results-and-awards When are my results published? Results are published online as soon as they are available. The final date by which all results should have been published can be found at westminster.ac.uk/results-and-awards Mitigating circumstances It’s your responsibility to manage your time, studies and workload effectively. However, occasionally, and despite the best planning, serious events or circumstances may occur, which can: • prevent you from attending an inclass test, exam or other assessment • prevent you from submitting coursework • cause you to submit your coursework late.

These circumstances might relate, for example, to the death of someone close to you or serious illness. Unavoidable circumstances like these are what we call ‘mitigating circumstances’. We have a process in place that allows for consideration of these circumstances. For more information visit westminster.ac.uk/mitigatingcircumstances Complaints For more information visit: westminster. ac.uk/student-complaints We are committed to providing the very best service to you. However, if you feel we fall short of your expectations, we encourage you to tell us. Our complaints procedure is published online and explains how you can make your concerns heard and, if necessary, how you can take your complaint further. Appeals See Part 4 Section 16 in the Handbook of Academic Regulations. For more information visit: westminster. ac.uk/student-appeals You can submit an appeal if you believe you have an evidence-based case of: • demonstrable material irregularity in the conduct of the Assessment Board procedures • demonstrable material procedural irregularity in the conduct of the Mitigating Circumstances procedures • procedural unfairness in the assessment process. A material irregularity would be where we have not acted in accordance with our regulations or where an error was made in the processing of a decision. You cannot appeal against the academic judgement of your examiners, or try to change your marks. There is a deadline for the submission of appeals, which is published each year in the University Calendar.
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Suspending or withdrawing from your studies westminster.ac.uk/suspending-orwithdrawing See Part 5 Section 17.44–17.42 (undergraduate) and Part 5 Section 18.36–39 (postgraduate) in the Handbook of Academic Regulations. What’s the difference between suspending and withdrawing? A suspension of studies means you are taking a break from University, usually one academic year, and plan to return. If you withdraw from your studies, it means that you have decided to leave your course permanently and have no intention of coming back. Your student record will be closed and if you decide in the future that you would like to restart your studies at the University, you will need to go through the application process again. If you’re an overseas student, withdrawing or suspending your studies may have implications for your visa, and we have a legal obligation to notify the UK Border Agency of any change in your attendance. What’s the procedure? Before making the decision to withdraw from your course or suspend your studies, it’s important to consider your options and talk them through with your course leader or personal tutor. Suspending or withdrawing can affect your funding, so it’s crucial that you discuss any implications with a Student Adviser at the Student Advice service. If you decide to go ahead with your decision, you must complete either the Withdrawal from Studies Form or Suspension of Studies Form. Make sure you read the guidance notes attached to the form and remember to get your course leader’s signature. You’ll need to submit the completed form to your Faculty Registry Office.

Where can I find the forms? You’ll find the forms at westminster. ac.uk/suspending-or-withdrawing Data protection and the use of information For more information visit: westminster.ac.uk/data-protection To be able to operate effectively, the University needs to store and use certain information about you, for example to maintain your student record and monitor your experience at the University. The information the University processes includes personal data and, in accordance with the Data Protection Act 1998, it is required to process the data fairly, to store it securely and not to disclose it to any other person unlawfully. In signing the enrolment form, you are giving permission for the information provided in your application form to be used for a number of purposes. This information will form the basis of your student record and will be used in the administration of your course and in the provision of the University’s services, support and facilities and to support the University of Westminster Students’ Union (UWSU) and its elections*. For more information about how your details will be processed by UWSU, see the section below. If you’re an international student who has entered the UK on a student visa, you should also note that the University is required by law to report on your attendance to the UK Border Agency (UKBA). The University is obliged to send student data to relevant government agencies for their use, such as the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA – see hesa.ac.uk/collection-notices) and the Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE). To help inform prospective student choices, the findings of the National Student Survey (NSS) and the Destinations of Leavers from Higher Education survey (DLHE), as well

as student entry qualifications and progression and degree classification data, are published on the HEFCEowned Unistats comparison website at unistats.direct.gov.uk To protect the rights and privacy of individuals, the Data Protection Act imposes both rights and responsibilities. You have the right to check the information held about you, but you also have the responsibility to ensure that this information is accurate and up to date. To see the information on your student record, log into SRSWeb and check that details such as your name and contact details are all correct. If any details are incorrect, notify your Faculty Registry Office as soon as possible. *Note that names may be stored only in English alphabet characters on the University’s central computer systems. If your name contains any non-English characters, these will be replaced by their closest English character equivalents, and this version of your name will appear in University web and IT applications, such as Blackboard and your University email address. The original non-English characters will be used on your award certificate and any academic references. UWSU All students become members of the University of Westminster Students’ Union (UWSU) at enrolment. The University will share your contact information with UWSU and UWSU will use that information for the purposes of running the Union and keeping you informed of its activities. UWSU may also send you information about its activities that it considers may be of interest to you. UWSU would like to communicate with you via your email and via the UWSU website. This would include information regarding your membership rights, for example notice of general meetings, referenda

and elections of trustees. It may also include information about UWSU’s activities as described above. Freedom of information For more information visit: westminster. ac.uk/freedom-of-information The Freedom of Information Act 2000 gives everyone the right to request information held by public authorities, which includes the University. Equality and diversity For more information visit: westminster.ac.uk/equality-anddiversity We are committed to embracing diversity and promoting equality. We want everyone in the University to be confident that they will be treated with respect and dignity, and we are equally committed to providing a supportive environment for students and staff alike. We recognise the rights of individuals to wear clothing that reflects their beliefs. We recognise that ethnicity and culture are not indicative of religion or belief, and that all religions have a variety of doctrinal beliefs and may have different values and customs. Freedom of speech For more information visit: westminster.ac.uk/freedom-of-speech The University endorses the principle of freedom of speech and the need to ensure that our members have freedom within the law to question and test received wisdom, and to put forward new ideas and controversial or unpopular opinions without placing themselves in jeopardy of losing their jobs or any privileges. Both staff and students are bound by national legislation on the freedom of speech. However, neither the University nor the University of Westminster Students’ Union will provide a platform for any organisations or individuals likely to endanger the safety or liberty of members of the University community.

Intellectual property rights For more information, visit westminster.ac.uk/intellectual-property Intellectual property rights are a set of legally enforceable interests giving their owners the exclusive right to use inventions and fixed expressions of ideas. There are different types of intellectual property and every student will generate some form of intellectual property in the course of their studies, eg coursework and exam answers. Any intellectual property you create will normally belong to you, but there are important exceptions that are detailed in our online guidance. Copyright For more information visit: westminster.ac.uk/copyright All published material, whether available in hard copy or electronically, is protected by the copyright laws in its country of origin. The legal obligation to observe copyright law lies with the individual making the copy. This means that if you would like to download or make copies of materials during your studies, you must check whether the material is subject to copyright and what the conditions of use are. Health and Safety Read more at: westminster.ac.uk/health-and-safety We have a responsibility to our students and visitors, but you also have a responsibility to conduct yourself so as not to endanger your own health and safety, or the wellbeing of others. We have a legal obligation to keep a record of all incidents that occur on our premises. If you are involved in an accident, however minor, you must report it immediately to a first aider or at the building reception. We aim to fully comply with the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and with all other relevant health and safety legislation.

Special codes of conduct have been prepared to keep specialist areas of the University safe. These relate to: • computer laboratories • bioscience laboratories • the Polyclinic • libraries • halls of residence • teaching environments • studios and workshops.

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CONTACT
Student Accommodation T: +44 (0)20 7911 5817 E: studentaccommodation@ westminster.ac.uk Admissions Offices Cavendish Admissions Office • Electronics and Computer Sciences • Life Sciences • Postgraduate Law courses • Social Sciences, Humanities and Languages T: +44 (0)20 7911 5883 E: [email protected] Harrow Admissions Office • Media, Arts and Design • Undergraduate Law courses T: +44 (0)20 7911 5903 E: [email protected] Marylebone Admissions Office • Architecture and the Built Environment • Westminster Business School T: +44 (0)20 7911 5020 E: [email protected] Student Advice T: +44 (0)20 7911 5000 ext 66080/4023 E: [email protected] Student Health Services T: +44 (0)20 7911 5000 ext 4107/5186 E: [email protected] Career Development Centre T: +44 (0)20 7911 5184 E: [email protected] Ceremonies and Conferments Team Ceremonies T: +44 (0)20 7911 5119 F: +44 (0)20 7911 5118 E: [email protected] Conferments T: +44 (0)20 7911 5722 F: +44 (0)20 7911 5118 E: [email protected] Counselling Service T: +44 (0)20 7911 5000 ext 3232/4023 E: [email protected] Course Enquiries T: +44 (0)20 7911 5511 E: [email protected] Disability Learning Support T: +44 (0)20 7911 5163 E: disabilities-westminster@ westminster.ac.uk Faith and Spirituality T: +44 (0)20 7911 5000 ext. 3400 E: [email protected] (Interfaith Adviser) Finance Offices Cavendish and Regent Campuses T: +44 (0)20 7911 5045 E: [email protected] Harrow T: +44 (0)20 7911 5911 E: [email protected] Marylebone T: +44 (0)20 7911 5114 E: [email protected] Libraries Cavendish Library T: +44 (0)20 7911 5000 ext 3613 or 3627 Harrow Learning Resources Centre T: +44 (0)20 7911 5000 ext 5885 or 4046 Marylebone Library T: +44 (0)20 7911 5000 ext 3212 or 3171 Regent Library T: +44 (0)20 7911 5000 ext 2537 Research Office [email protected] Scholarships Office T: +44 (0)20 7911 5000 ext 66257, 66258 or 66259 E: [email protected] Faculty Registry Offices For Faculty Registry Office contact details, visit westminster.ac.uk/facultyregistry-offices Sports facilities Chiswick Sports Ground T: +44 (0)20 8995 6863 E: [email protected] Harrow Sports Hall T: +44 (0)20 7911 5965 E: [email protected] Regent Street Gym T: +44 (0)20 7911 5892 E: [email protected] University of Westminster Students’ Union (UWSU) Suzanne Leach, Senior Welfare Adviser T: +44 (0)20 7911 5000 ext 4022 E: [email protected]

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A – Z CONTENTS
Academic calendar Academic conduct Academic regulations Access to Learning Fund (ALF) Accommodation Alumni Appeals Assessment offences Award certificates p94 p82 p82 p15 p36 p79 p83 p82 p78 ID Card Immigration Individual Exam and Assessment Arrangements Intellectual Property Rights Interfaith advice International Student Adviser IT Services Feedback Freedom of Information Freedom of Speech Freshers’ Fortnight Graduation ceremonies Grants Halls of Residence Harrow Sports Hall Health and Safety Health services Heathrow and Gatwick Meet and Greet Services Housing Insurance Learning shock Libraries Living costs Loans Medical Insurance Mitigating Circumstances Module marks Module Profile Report National Insurance Number National Student Survey (NSS) National Health Service (NHS) Oyster cards p46 p28 p83 p85 p67 p63 p60 p71 p85 p85 p50 p78 p14 p36 p73 p85 p66 p22 p36 p38 p26 p60 p10 p14 p33 p83 p83 p83 p32 p71 p33 p9–11 Personal Development Planning (PDP) Personal safety Personal tutors Plagiarism Policies Polyclinic Polylang Prayer rooms Presentation Ceremonies References Referencing (Academic) Regent Street Gym Regulations Religion and belief Results Rights and Responsibilities p59 p38 p58 p83 p82 p66 p62 p67 p78 p78 p82 p72 p82 p67 p83 p82

TERMS AND CONDITIONS
If you are offered and accept a place at the University of Westminster, a contract is formed. The terms of this contract include the following, and your acceptance of a place is expressly subject to them. You will be required as a condition of enrolment to abide by the University’s Memorandum and Articles, Statutes, Regulations, Rules, Procedures and Codes of Conduct as amended from time to time under the authority of the Court of Governors or the Academic Council. The University of Westminster prospectuses and the material on its website are published on the express condition that all matters contained there are subject to change from time to time. In particular while the University will use all reasonable endeavours to deliver the courses and programmes of study and other educational services as published, circumstances may change, and the University reserves the right at any time to vary the content and delivery of courses, to change the location of courses or modules, to discontinue or combine courses, or to discontinue services, if such action is reasonably considered necessary. You will be required as a condition of your enrolment to: • produce documentary evidence that you satisfy the entry requirements for the course, or have qualifications deemed equivalent by the University • have applied for admission and have a confirmed acceptance from the University • pay the fees prescribed for the course, or produce acceptable evidence of sponsorship. Fees may include supplementary materials, field trip costs or similar. The University of Westminster does not accept responsibility and expressly excludes liability for damage to student property or intellectual property other than through the proven negligence of the University, its staff or agents, or for the consequences of any modification or cancellation of courses as set out above.

Bank accounts p30–31 Blackboard p55 Bookshops p62 Career Development Centre p40 Confirmation of Acceptance of Studies (CAS) p28–29 Ceremonies p78 Certificates p78 Chiswick Sports Ground p73 Clinics p66 Codes p82 Complaints p83 Complementary therapies p66 Computers p60 Copyright p85 Council tax p11 Council Tax Exception Certificate p10 Counselling p64 Course Handbooks p58 Culture shock p25 Data Protection p84 Debt recovery p19 Destination of Leavers from Higher Education Survey p79 Disability Learning Support p65 Doctors p66 EAP modules p61 Email accounts p46 Emergency funds p15 Enrolment p44 Environment p74–75 Equality and diversity p85

Safety p38 Faculty Registry Offices p58 Smoke Magazine p50 Smoke Radio p50 Sport p72 SRSWeb p55–57 Student Advice Service p63 Student Ambassador Scheme p70 Student exchanges p70 Student Experience Survey p71 Student representatives p71 Students’ Union p50–53 Student visa p28 Suspending p84 Sustainability p74 Term dates Tier 4 General Student Visa Timetables Transcripts Tuition fees Tutorial support University calendar Use of information UWSU Visas Withdrawing p94 p28 p55 p78 p16 p58 p94 p84 p50 p28 p8

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MAP
1 harrow Campus
Watford Road, Northwick Park Admissions Office (Harrow) Career Development Centre Counselling Service Disability Learning Support Faculty of Media, Arts and Design Faculty Registry Office Hall of Residence Harrow IT services Harrow Library London Gallery West Prayer Room and Quiet Room Sports Hall and Fitness Centre Student Advice service Student Health service Students’ Union Shop and Office westPHOTO

2 Regent Campus
309 Regent Street (University Headquarters) Fitness Centre Multi-faith Quiet Room and Prayer Room Regent IT services Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities Students’ Union Office The Gallery Vice-Chancellors Office

7 Cavendish Campus
115 New Cavendish Street Admissions Office (Cavendish and Regent) Cavendish IT Services Cavendish Library Faculty of Science and Technology Faculty Registry Office Information Services Marylebone Books Prayer and Multi-Faith Quiet Room Students’ Union Shop and Office

1

3 4/12 Little Titchfield Street
Regent Library Faculty Registry Office Multi-faith Quiet Room and Prayer Room Archive Services Westminster Law School

8 Hanson Street

Policy Studies Institute (separate entrance) Polyclinic (separate entrance) Academic Registrar’s Dept Career Development Centre Central London Assessment Services (CLASS) Ceremonies and Conferments team Counselling Services Disability Learning Support Education Abroad Estates and Facilities Finance Human Resources Information Services International Development Office International Partnerships Office Planning Office Quality and Standards Office Recruitment, Admissions and Marketing Services. Research Office Safety, Health and Well-Being Scholarships and Student Funding Student Accommodation Student Advice service Student Regulations

4 16 Little Titchfield Street

EUSTON EUSTON SQUARE
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Westminster Law School – research students and Pro-bono clinic Faculty Registry Office Marylebone Campus

9 101 New Cavendish Street

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5 32/38 Wells Street

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With thanks: Images courtesy of the following aphic University of Westminster Photogr : ents Arts BA Honours stud Anand Damodaran Byoung Joon Yoon Renée de Nève

If you would like a large print copy of this handbook , please contact [email protected] k

We w enh elcom anc e sugg e thi your f s e e wes stions guide. edback tmin let u If yo to im ster. s ac.u know u can th prove o a k/e ssen nline a ink of a nd t tialny feed bac k

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tes University calendar da
stminster.ac.uk/universitySee the full calendar at: we

calendar

nts: Undergraduate stude
Student year starts** 14 September 2013* Enrolment and induction 16–20 September 2013 Semester one teaching 2013 23 September–13 December Semester two teaching 13 Januar y–4 April 2014 Exam period 30 April–23 May 20143 Student year ends 21 June 2014 ments Referral and deferral assess ms and exa 4–11 July 2014

: Postgraduate students
Student year starts** 12 September 2013* Enrolment 12–13 September 2013 Enrolment and induction 16–20 September 2013 Semester one teaching 2013 23 September–13 December Semester two teaching 13 Januar y–4 April 2014 Exam period 30 April–23 May 2014 e Postgraduate project deadlin 14 20 11 September Student year ends 13 September 2014 ments Referral and deferral assess and exams 4–11 July 2014

Note to all students pendent Study (GIS), ster will be devoted to Guided Inde An average of two weeks per seme are subject to approval and etion discr l loca to left ered are but its timing and the way it is deliv se leader of how and cour your by nt. You will be advised by the Academic Head of Departme when GIS will take place.

tenancy contracts. s are linked to Halls of Residence * The student year start and end date place on weekdays. Formal teaching will normally take and induction will take place ester two of 2013/14, enrolment Sem in se cour your n begi ** If you ary 2014. Monday 6 January – Friday 10 Janu

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