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International Students

International students need to take note of the sections below as well as generic information which applies to all students (Clicking on the links will jump you to that section on this page or you can scroll down to read it all).

All International Students

International Students on a Student Visa Route

 

All International Students

Registration and arrival

Please check our New Students pages for specific information about online registration.

You'll find pre-arrival information in your International Welcome Guide.

Teaching and Learning

We understand that studying at a new university, especially in a different country, can be a unique experience. As part of your induction, we’ll introduce you to the UK’s teaching and learning methods, systems, and processes, which may differ from what you’re used to. You’ll also be guided to support services and resources to help you adjust and succeed in your studies.

University of Cumbria Students’ Union

The Students’ Union will also be able to provide information about living and travelling within the UK.

They offer an international ‘buddy’ scheme, connecting international students with current students before you arrive. This allows you to ask questions and receive advice from someone who knows the campus you’ll be attending. When you arrive, you’ll meet your buddy in person, and they’ll show you around the campus and local area.

All students, regardless of their campus, are members of the Students’ Union. The Union also has an International Students Representative to ensure that your views and comments are heard.

 

There are many clubs, activities, and sports teams run by the Students’ Union that you’re welcome to join. Don’t hesitate to visit the SU if you need help with anything—whether it’s about living in the UK, studying at the University, or participating in sports and social activities.

For more information, visit the Students’ Union website.

 

How Do I Request Letters to Support My Study?

As an international student, the Programme Administration team can provide you with letters to support you during your studies. If you need any of the following letters, please complete the request form, which will be sent to the Programme Administration Team for processing:

  • Confirmation of Status Letter
  • Bank Letter
  • Employment during term time
  • Employment outside of term time
  • Council Tax Exemption

Once your request is processed, the Programme Administration Team will contact you when your letter(s) is ready for collection or if they need more information to assist you. 

Library staff are also available to provide advice and support on various matters, including academic skills, learning resources, managing your finances, and maintaining your health and well-being.

 

International Students on a Student Visa Route

Student Visas for All International Students, including EAA Nationals

The UK Home Office is responsible for managing UK immigration, including the Student Visa system. This visa is part of the UK’s points-based immigration system, suitable for students who want to study in the UK for more than 6 months.

This visa applies to all international students and European Economic Area (EEA) nationals who do not have UK residency rights under the EU Settled Scheme. Swiss nationals are generally considered under the same regulations as EEA citizens.

Under the UK Immigration Act 1971, the University of Cumbria is legally required to comply with Home Office regulations. As a 'Student Visa Sponsor', we are responsible for keeping up-to-date records for all students on a Student Visa. These records include:

  • Copies of all data pages from your passport, including any immigration stamps
  • Your current UK visa, if applicable
  • Your Student Visa vignette
  • Your Biometric Residence Permit (applicable until 1 January 2025)
  • Your e-Visa
  • Your UK contact details
  • Records of your annual registration
  • Records of your attendance throughout your course

Additional Registration Requirements for Students Visa Holders

You will need to attend an in-person registration session on either International Welcome Day or the first day of your course. During this session, we will verify your identity. Please bring the following documents with you:

  • Your passport
  • Your Student Visa
  • Original qualification certificates (new students only)

We will check these details against the information you provided online and take photocopies for our records.

Additionally, you will need to sign a declaration confirming your understanding of the responsibilities tied to your Student Visa, including:

  • Keeping your contact details up to date
  • Compliance with attendance and absence reporting requirements

Once you have fully completed all elements of pre-registration, including your admissions clearances, and have attended a registration event you will receive a Confirmation of Registration letter via email. This document can be used to verify your status as a student at the University of Cumbria.

If you are a new full-time student, you will also receive a Council Tax Exemption Certificate, valid for the duration of your course.

Your Attendance

As your Student Visa sponsor, the University of Cumbria is responsible for monitoring your regular and continuous attendance throughout your course. We are required to report any unexplained absences to the Home Office. We monitor:

  • Attendance at lectures, seminars, and Personal Academic Tutor (PAT) meetings
  • Assignment submissions and module completion
  • Exam attendance
  • Attendance at other scheduled meetings

Non-Attendance and Reporting to the Home Office

Unreported or unexplained absences will be recorded. Continued absence may result in disciplinary action under the Student Code of Conduct and Disciplinary Procedure, and could lead to deregistration from the University. In such cases, we will notify the Home Office that we have withdrawn sponsorship of your Student Visa.

Student Visa Attendance Policy

View the University’s Academic Engagement Policy.

Changes During Your Course

If you wish to change your course of study while on a Student Visa, it’s important to ensure that the change complies with your visa conditions, particularly in terms of the length of your study.

You should seek advice from both the University and the Home Office before making any changes. Please contact your local Programme Administration Office for guidance.

Important: If you are moving from one course to another and your current Student Visa expires less than a month before the start of your new course, you will need to return to your home country to apply for a new visa.

Extending Your Student Visa

Your Student Visa will generally cover the expected duration of your course, allowing you time to complete your studies and graduate. However, if your circumstances change, you may need to extend your visa. You may be able to submit your extension application within the UK if you are:

  • Progressing from one course to another – If you’ve completed one course (e.g., undergraduate) and are moving on to another (e.g., postgraduate) within 28 days of your current visa’s expiry.  
  • Resits or repeats– If you need to re-sit exams or repeat a year of study with full attendance.

There are situations where visa extensions are not possible, such as:

  • If reassessment (e.g., a dissertation) does not require attendance, we cannot support an extension.
  • If you exceed the 5-year cap on degree-level study.
  • Extensions to attend a graduation ceremony are not permitted.
  • Extensions cannot be granted to become eligible for the Graduate Route.

If your visa is close to expiring, contact the Programme Administration Office at least six weeks before the expiry date for guidance.

How to Renew Your Visa in the UK

To extend your Student Visa, you will need a new CAS (Certificate of Acceptance for Studies) number from the University and confirmation that you are still eligible to continue your course. Please contact our visa compliance team at UKVICompliance@cumbria.ac.uk for advice.

You can apply for a visa extension online, where you will also provide your biometric details and necessary documents at an accredited visa centre. For more information, visit the Home Office website.

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