University of Essex International College pre-arrival

We can’t wait to welcome you to Essex

Here you can find useful pre-arrival information: everything from how you should prepare to what you can look forward to.

Starting to prepare 

When you’re about to move abroad, there is a lot to think about! You’ll need to understand what you need to do, including obtaining the correct visa and what documents you require. It’s also time to consider what you’ll want to bring with you to the UK.

Complete the pre-arrival form 

It’s important that you fill in the pre-arrival form at least 72 hours before you’re due to travel. This will let us know important information like when you’ll be arriving, so we can have everything ready for when you get here. 

Getting your visa

If you already have your CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies), you can begin the process of applying for a student visa. This may involve a visa credibility interview — check out these handy tips.

  • Check if you need a visa to study in the UK

  • Use your CAS number to apply for a visa online  

  • Take your documents to a visa application centre  

  • Receive your visa ready for travelling to the UK  

Securing your accommodation

Before you come to Essex, you’ll need to have arranged a place to live. You can choose and book your accommodation once you have accepted your study offer. We can help you find the perfect place to live during your studies in Essex. Learn more on the Kaplan Living website.

Download a checklist of
documents you’ll need

(0.6MB, PDF)


Pathways Preview

Before coming to the UK, you can gain early access to learning materials with Pathways Preview. This includes the chance to explore Kaplan’s Virtual Learning Environment (VLE). 

Pathways Preview includes: 

  • digital learning preparation materials

  • additional modules on subjects such as eating healthily and taking exercise   

  • college staff contact for any questions  


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Arriving in Essex

Before you set off, you’ll need to pack carefully! Remember to bring:

Important documents 

Laptop with camera 

Money and bank card 

Suitable clothing 

Electrical adapter 

Any medication you need 

Mobile phone 

We can arrange a transfer to bring you directly from the airport to your new home if you complete the pre-arrival form before you arrive. Free transfers are only available on the main arrival weekend. 

If you want to arrange your own transport, you can take a train or coach to Colchester from London Heathrow, London Gatwick and Stansted airports. Alternatively, you can take a taxi from any point of entry.  

Once you’re at your residence, a friendly member of staff will be there to welcome you and help you get settled. It’s important that you’re in the UK in time to join in Welcome Week and start your studies. 

We can’t wait to see you here soon! 

While you wait, join us on social media! 

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Contact details

University of Essex International College

Constable Building
University of Essex
Wivenhoe Park
Colchester
CO4 3SQ
United Kingdom

+44 (0) 1206 873838

ueic.arrivals@kaplan.com

International College arrivals number
(for use only when you’ve arrived in the UK)

+44 (0) 7741 660 659

University of Essex emergency number 
(in use 24 hours per day, throughout the year) 

+44 (0) 1206 872 222

UK Emergency services number
(Police, fire brigade, ambulance)

999