Frequently asked questions
University of Exeter
How well regarded is University of Exeter?
In the Times Good University Guide 2010, The University of Exeter was ranked 9th overall with 22 subjects in the Top 10. They were also ranked 2nd in the National Student Survey results and 9th in proportion of students getting good degrees.
Which subjects are rated particularly highly at University of Exeter?
The University of Exeter Business School has a number of subjects in the UK top 10 including Accounting and Finance (2nd), Business Studies (5th) and Economics (6th). Politics and Psychology were also ranked 9th in their respective fields.
In the latest Research Assessment Exercise, the Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE) rated 89% of the University’s research as being of international quality or higher. Our English Department was ranked as the highest in its sector for world-leading research, with Classics and Ancient History coming third on the same basis. Overall, 16 of the 31 subjects at the University of Exeter were ranked in the UK top 10, with 27 in the top 20.
Will I be a University student while I study at INTO University of Exeter?
Yes. INTO University of Exeter students are fully registered at the University of Exeter and have access to all the facilities and resources that are available on campus, including the library, IT and sports facilities.
How can I find out about the degree courses at University of Exeter?
For degree information visit the Exeter University website.
Am I guaranteed progression to a degree at University of Exeter?
Successful completion of an INTO University of Exeter programme will guarantee you a place on a degree at the University of Exeter.
How long are undergraduate University degrees in England?
Normally, a standard undergraduate degree is three years long.
The INTO University of Exeter Centre and facilities
What support services are available for students?
We provide a range of services to ensure you have a successful and happy experience while studying with us. Our dedicated student services team is on hand to support you with both academic and non-academic concerns throughout your stay.
- On arrival, we will run a comprehensive orientation programme to welcome you and introduce you to studying at the London Study Centre.
- We provide you with a telephone number for emergencies that you can use day or night to contact INTO staff.
- Our language advisors can help you or your parents if you are having trouble communicating effectively in English.
- Our Student Services Coordinator can help you with all sorts of concerns, including setting up a UK bank account or extending your visa.
- For students under the age of 18, parents must sign a consent form to allow nominated INTO staff to act in loco parentis (on behalf of the parent) in the case of an emergency. Alternatively, parents can nominate a UK-based guardian. Click here[insert link] for our policy on students under the age of 18.
- Our International Liaison Officer can help you to apply to the University of Exeter through the UCAS scheme.
- We offer a confidential service for students with disabilities that provides advice and information. Please contact us for more information.
- We run a lively social programme which offers you the chance to explore Exeter and the South West of England, meet other INTO students and experience a bit of British life.
Can I join any clubs or societies?
As an INTO University of Exeter student you will be able to join a large range of clubs and societies, which cater to diverse interests including sports, languages, drama and politics. For a full list of University of Exeter societies click here.
Societies and clubs normally recruit at the beginning of the academic year (September/October), but are available to join throughout the year.
Living in Exeter
What is Exeter like as a city?
Exeter is the capital city of Devon. It has a population of around 122,000 and is consistently rated as one of the best places to live in the UK. The economy is booming with large companies like the Met Office choosing to relocate here, and a new £235 million retail centre with more than 60 shops and restaurants has put the city on the map as the South West’s most vibrant shopping city.
Exeter is a safe, student-friendly city with a vibrant and fun culture and relaxed atmosphere. Most students find the city is not particularly expensive, and you will be able to enjoy a relatively high standard of living. The city is also only 20 minutes from the South Devon coast, which offers many opportunities for sailing, swimming and kite-surfing, and close to Exmoor and Dartmoor National Parks – areas of immense natural beauty which provide exciting challenges for hikers, climbers and cyclists.
How do I travel around Exeter?
Exeter is a relatively small city so traveling is easy. Although some students choose to buy a car when they come to Exeter, it is definitely not essential and you should be aware that parking on the university campus can sometimes be difficult. The city centre is also only a 15-minute walk from the INTO Centre and the university campus.
There is a comprehensive bus network throughout the city and many of INTO Exeter students take advantage of a weekly bus ticket which allows unlimited travel on all Exeter buses. The ‘D’ bus service runs on a loop from the city centre to the university campus, approximately every 15 minutes during the day in term time. For more information on buses in Exeter please click here.
There are a number of taxi/minicab companies operating in Exeter which can only be used by booking in advance. There are also several sites in the city centre where you can find a waiting taxi (Hackney carriage), but please note, these will charge you more than a pre-booked taxi.
How much cash should I bring?
You should bring about £200 in cash to see you through your first few days in Exeter and any incidental expenses during your journey. It is not wise to carry large amounts of cash around with you, and far safer to use a debit, credit or cash card operated with a four-digit PIN number. Avoid having your money in £50 notes – many shops, restaurants, hotels and taxis will not accept them because of an increased risk of fraud. Try to get a selection of £5 to £20 notes.
Many UK banks offer bank accounts for international students, but they can sometimes take several weeks to set up. To speed up the process you may want to find a bank in your home country that has branches in the UK, such as HSBC.
There is a NatWest bank on campus, however you may choose to open an account with a different bank that has a branch in the city centre.
You can transfer money from your home country into a UK bank, but first check you are complying with your country’s laws (many countries have strict regulations governing the international transfer of money). If you are planning on using your debit or credit cards while you are in the UK, it is good to let your bank know.
How much money will I need for living costs?
Your living expenses will include accommodation, food, travel and entertainment. Check out well-known supermarket websites like Tesco[http://www.tesco.com/] to see the costs of food in the UK, and stores like Debenhams to see the costs of clothes.
As an international student it is also important that you have enough money to cover your tuition fees and living costs before you leave your home country. You will not be issued a UK visa without providing evidence that you have a sufficient amount of personal savings – you can learn more about this at the UK Border Agency website. [www.ukvisas.gov.uk]
Accommodation
Where will I live?
There are two main types of accommodation on offer to INTO University of Exeter students:
Residential
The University residential accommodation is on or near Streatham campus and has all the facilities you need close to hand. You will enjoy a centrally heated, fully furnished single room with study desk, either in en-suite (you have your own shower, washbasin and toilet) or enhanced (you have your own washbasin, shower and toilet) options. For both options kitchen and dining areas are shared.
Homestay
Homestay accommodation provides you with a home away from home. You have your own single study bedroom and live as part of the family, sharing mealtimes (breakfast and evening meal) and any facilities in the home that you need.
Accommodation costs range from £107 - £141 per week. To find out more about the above options, click here[http://into.uk.com/exeter/accommodation.php].
Is accommodation guaranteed while I study at INTO City University?
The earlier we receive your application, the more likely it is you will get your chosen accommodation. We will only be able to guarantee accommodation when we have received full payment of your fees.
Dates
When do courses start?
| Course |
Start date |
| Foundation programme |
Wednesday 6 January 2010 |
| Undergraduate Diploma programme |
Wednesday 6 January 2010 |
| Graduate Diploma programme |
Wednesday 6 January 2010 |
| English for Undergraduate Study |
Wednesday 6 January 2010
Wednesday 7 April 2010
Monday 5 July 2010
|
| English for Postgraduate Study |
Wednesday 6 January 2010
Wednesday 7 April 2010
Monday 5 July 2010
|
Note: you should arrive the weekend before your course starts so you have enough time to register for your accommodation.
Entry requirements
What are the English language requirements?
| Course |
English language requirement |
| Foundation programme |
IELTS 5.0 (with a minimum of 5.0 in writing) or equivalent* |
| Undergraduate Diploma programme |
IELTS 6.0 (with a minimum of 5.5 in writing) or equivalent* |
| Graduate Diploma programme |
IELTS 5.5 (with a minimum of 5.0 in writing) or equivalent |
| English for Undergraduate Study |
IELTS 3.0 (with a minimum of 3.0 in writing) or equivalent |
| English for Postgraduate Study |
IELTS 3.0 (with a minimum of 3.0 in writing) or equivalent |
*Applicants who provide an IELTS certificate must have an overall score that is within one bandwidth of the IELTS entry requirement for their chosen degree.
Do I need to take an IELTS or TOEFL exam before applying to INTO University of Exeter?
We recommend that you take an IELTS or TOEFL exam before you apply, but don’t worry if you haven’t – we can offer you our own INTO test. Contact your regional office to find out more.
How can I find out my English language level?
You can take an IELTS or TOEFL test, or any other recognised exam, including the INTO test.
Fees and scholarships
How much are the tuition fees?
January 2010
| Course |
Length of course |
Cost |
| Foundation programme |
One academic year (approximately 9 months) |
£9,600 |
| Undergraduate Diploma programme |
One academic year (approximately 9 months) |
£9,600 |
| Graduate Diploma programme |
One academic year (approximately 9 months) |
£9,600 |
| English for Undergraduate Study |
Minimum study period – 1 term |
£3,200 per term |
| English for Postgraduate Study |
Minimum study period – 1 term |
£3,200 per term |
As an international student it is important that you ensure you have enough money to cover your tuition fees and living costs before you leave your home country. The immigration authorities will not issue a visa without evidence that you have enough money to support yourself – you can learn more about this at the UK Border Agency website.
To find out more about tuition fees and deposits
click here. Do I need to pay a deposit?
Yes. In order for us to hold your place on your chosen course, you must pay your full tuition fees at least four weeks before the course starts. Students paying full fees for at least three terms of an academic preparation programme or an English for Undergraduate/Postgraduate Study course, will also receive a discount of £500 if they pay by this date.
Unfortunately, if you have not paid your full tuition fees less than four weeks before the start of your course, we cannot guarantee your place, and on arrival you may be placed on a different course. To find out more click here[link to page about paying fees].
You will also need to pay a deposit to reserve your INTO accommodation.
How do I pay my fees?
Once you have accepted an offer of a place, you can send your deposit of £1,000 and your Uniplan Insurance fee [insert link] (unless you have arranged for alternative cover) by sterling banker’s draft, VISA, MasterCard, Maestro, Solo, Electron, Delta or direct bank transfer to:
If you pay for least three terms of study on an academic preparation programme or English for Undergraduate or Postgraduate Study course, on or before the due date of four weeks before the course start date, you will receive a reduction of £500 to your fees. This will be shown in your invoice.
Does INTO University of Exeter offer any scholarships? There may be scholarships available that you can apply for. To find out more contact your Regional Office.
Joint Foundation scholarships
INTO University of Exeter and the University of Exeter offer a number of jointly awarded foundation scholarships each year. These scholarships are equivalent to the tuition fees of the INTO University of Exeter Foundation Programme and are awarded in two stages.
- Half the total amount is deducted from the INTO tuition fees.
- The second half is deducted from the first year fees of an undergraduate degree programme (subject to the terms and conditions of the scholarship).
Where can I find out about other scholarships?
There may also be scholarships that you are eligible for in your home country. To find out about other sponsorship or scholarship schemes, check out the your country’s local version of the British Council website.
Applying
How do I apply for a course?
You can apply directly for an INTO programme through our website here
Either submit it online, or print out, fill in and return to your local INTO representative or directly to the INTO Admissions office at:
University of Exeter Admission
4th Floor
100 Queen’s Road
Brighton BN1 3YB
United Kingdom
Please ensure that you fill out the application form accurately, or your visa application or be affected.
Once we have received your application in full, we will be in touch within 48 working hours to let you know the outcome of your application.
How do I contact someone in my own country to help with my application?
Get in touch with your nearest INTO regional office[link to contact details page] and we will put you in touch with a suitable local agent who can help you with your application.
Do you have education agents in my country?
We have education agents all over the world who provide a counseling service to our prospective students. This includes advice on all our courses, application support and visa assistance. Get in touch with your nearest INTO regional office and we will put you in touch with a suitable local agent who can help you with your application.
Are there any upcoming events or fairs in my country?
You may be interested in speaking to an INTO University of Exeter representative. We attend events and fairs overseas throughout the year and would be delighted to meet you and answer any questions you may have. For a complete list of fairs we are attending, click here.
What is the deadline for applications?
We’re happy to accept students right up until our courses begin, as long as there are places available. Contact your regional office for more information.
If my application is successful, when will I receive the documentation required for visa application?
After you have accepted an offer of a place, we will send you a deposit request and an enrolment form. Once we have received your deposit and completed enrolment form, we will email you a certificate of enrolment form that needs to be presented when applying for a visa. We will send the certificate of enrolment no later than 48 working hours after receiving your completed documentation and deposit.
Do I get a refund if I cancel my place?
Refunds can only be made where visa applications are refused.
What is the deadline for applications?
Exeter University is a leading UK University so the demand for places is very high. We recommend that you apply as early as possible as courses can be filled well before their start dates.
Pre-arrival (insurance, visas, travel etc)
Can you tell me more about visa regulations?
It is mandatory that all INTO students meet British immigration requirements, and if you are studying for more than six months you will need to gain entry clearance. Please be aware that it is not possible to change from a visitor visa to a student visa.
The UK Border Agency website will help to answer some of your initial questions and you can also find information and advice on entry clearance and visas on the UKCISA website.
Students from China can also find information and advice on the British Embassy website.
Can I work in the UK while I study?
If you are studying in the UK for more than six months it is likely that you will be entitled to work. However, gaining employment will depend on your skills and background, and jobs are not always easy to come by. International students are also restricted to working 20 hours per week in the UK.
Please note, as an international student you must ensure that you have the funds to pay for your tuition fees and your living costs for the whole duration of the course before you come to the UK. To meet the immigration requirements you must prove to the visa or entry clearance officer that you have enough money to support yourself without needing to work.
For more information on working in the UK you can also visit the UKCISA website.
Do I get a refund if my visa is refused?
If your visa is refused, we will refund 100% of your fees. For information about cancellation fees, please see our terms and conditions.
Can I bring my family with me?
If you apply for a general student visa, you are allowed to bring your family or any dependants with you. If you are given permission to stay in the UK for longer than 12 months, your adult dependants (eg wife or husband) will be allowed to work. However, when you apply for their visas you will have to show that you have sufficient funds to support them, as well as yourself. Click here for more detailed information from the UK Border Agency.
Do I need to get insurance?
A valid and comprehensive medical and travel insurance policy is mandatory for all INTO University of Exeter students covering the full duration of studies. A Uniplan Insurance plan will automatically be added to your course fees unless you provide proof of suitable alternative cover.
All students MUST provide INTO with evidence that either:
a. They have their own valid and comprehensive medical and accident insurance policy for the duration of their stay,
OR
b. They have paid for INTO’s Uniplan Insurance before they leave home.
What happens when I arrive in the UK?
When you arrive at a UK airport, you will need to enter the UK through immigration. You should ensure that your important documents, including your passport, visa, proof of funding and offer letter from INTO are all in your hand luggage. An immigration officer will check your documents and ask you some questions about why you are coming to the UK and what you will be studying.
After collecting your luggage you will need to go through customs. Normally you will walk through the green channel unless you are carrying items worth more than £5000, in which case you will walk through the red channel.
From the arrivals lounge you will need to make your way to the Centre. If you have booked an INTO airport transfer before you leave your home country, you will need to find your transfer by following the instructions you have been given. You will then be taken directly to your residence.
If you have not selected an airport transfer, you will need to make your way to the Exeter campsu yourself. This can be done either by train or coach.
How to get to Exeter from UK Airports
London Heathrow Airport
Tel: +44 0870 0000123
www.baa.co.uk/main/airports/heathrow
Heathrow is the world’s busiest airport with flights to and from more than 170 different destinations worldwide. Heathrow is on the outskirts of London and is about 180 miles from Exeter. You can travel from Heathrow to Exeter by train or by bus.
To travel by train: take the Heathrow Express train to London Paddington Station. This takes 15 minutes and a single one-way ticket costs around £15.50. For more details click here. At Paddington go to the Travel Office located on the forecourt and buy a ‘single ticket’ to Exeter St David’s rail station. The journey time is usually around 2 hours 30 minutes from Paddington Station. More details of train times can be found on www.thetrainline.com.
To travel by bus: follow the signs in the arrival hall to the airport’s Central Bus Station. Buy a National Express single ticket (approximately £22.00) from the Ticket Office near Stand 1 to Exeter Bus Station (Paris Street). You will need the bus service NX501. The journey time is approximately 3 hours 30 minutes. Please be aware that these buses are very popular, the wait can be long and they have strict restrictions on the amount of luggage you can take. For more details see www.nationalexpress.com.
London Gatwick Airport
Tel:+44 0870 0002468
gatwick
Gatwick is located south of London and has connections to more than 200 destinations worldwide. You can travel from Gatwick to Exeter by train or bus.
To travel by train: follow the signs for Gatwick Airport Train Station and purchase a one way through ticket to Exeter St David’s (approximately £86.50). On the departure board, look for trains going to the town of Reading. You will need to change trains at Reading and get the next train to Exeter St David’s rail station. The travel time from Gatwick to Reading is 45 minutes and the journey time from Reading to Exeter is approximately 2 hours 30 minutes, but you must allow for waiting/connection time which could add at least an hour to your journey. For timetables and connections see www.thetrainline.com.
To travel by bus: buy a ticket in the Arrivals Hall (approximately £30.00). National Express buses leave from outside both the North and South terminals. You will need to take the bus service FX210 to Heathrow Central Bus Station. The journey is approximately 1 hour 15 minutes. Change to Service NX501 to Exeter Paris Street. See ‘by bus from Heathrow’ above for more details.
Bristol International Airport
Tel: +44 0871 334 4344
www.bristolairport.co.uk
Bristol International Airport is approximately 70 miles from Exeter. To travel by train, take the Bristol International Flyer express coach from outside the terminal to Bristol Temple Meads rail station. Buy a ticket on the bus and ask for a single ticket (approximately £7). Buses leave every 15 minutes during peak times and the journey takes 30 minutes. At Bristol Temple Meads Station buy a single ticket to Exeter St David’s (approximately £19.00). Journey time is on average 1 hour 15 minutes.
Exeter International Airport
Tel: +44 1392 367 433
www.exeter-airport.co.uk
Exeter International Airport is the closest airport to the University of Exeter. There are direct flights into Exeter from Paris, Dublin, Amsterdam, Geneva and airports in the United Kingdom.
To travel by bus: there is a limited bus service from the airport to Exeter city centre. Details and prices can be obtained once you reach the airport.
To travel by taxi: taxi’s can be booked at the airport. The taxi charge will be approximately £15.
On arrival at Exeter bus or rail station
Although the rail and bus stations are a short walk from the University (approximately 20 minutes) you will probably have some heavy luggage to carry. Taxis are located immediately outside Exeter St David’s rail station and parked adjacent to the Bus Station in Sidwell Street. If you have University accommodation follow the instructions for key collection. The taxi drivers know the University well and can help you get to your accommodation. The cost from the rail or bus station is around £4.50 plus any waiting time incurred. You may like to book a taxi when you arrive in the UK to avoid having to wait around on your arrival in Exeter. Two local firms are:
Gemini Taxis (01392) 66 66 66
Capital Taxis (01392) 43 33 43
Make sure you tell the booking clerk the time, day and where you will be arriving and where you are going in Exeter.
Arriving at the INTO Centre
On arrival at your hall of residence you will check in, be shown your room, and have some time to unwind and familiarise yourself with your new surroundings. On the day your course starts you will need to report to the Exeter Centre where you will complete the registration process, before beginning a general orientation programme that officially introduces you to the building, INTO staff and your class mates.
For more information on all of these steps, check out our pre-departure and arrival guide here[link to pages].
How will I contact my family to know that I’ve arrived safely?
When you arrive to register at the Centre, we will give you a free ‘pay-as-you-go’ Nomi mobile phone SIM card, pre-loaded with £5 worth of credit, so you can call home and let your family know you’re OK. To use the card you will need to bring your mobile handset from home with you, ensuring that you have unlocked it from any networks it might be subscribed to. For more information about the Nomi scheme, click here. We suggest you do not use your home SIM to make calls from the UK as it will be very expensive.
Computers with internet access are also available for students to use throughout the Centre, should you wish to email your parents.
How many hours a week will I study?
Most of our programmes offer up to 22 hours of contact teaching per week. English for Undergraduate or Postgraduate Study offers up to 21 hours of contact teaching per week; Pre-sessional English provides 20 hours of contact teaching per week.
What are the address/contact details of the INTO University of Exeter Centre
The Old Library
Prince of Wales Road
Exeter
EX4 4SB
United Kingdom
Tel: +44 (0)1392 264282
Fax: +44 (0)1392 264277
Email: INTO@exeter.ac.uk