Student support at the University of Essex International College

Student support at the University of Essex International College

You will receive all the support and guidance you need throughout your time at the University of Essex International College. The Student Services team is always happy to help.

Our support at every step of your journey

  1. Application

    We’ll help you find the perfect study option, and walk you through the application process and next steps

  2. Pre-arrival guidance

    We’ll make sure you have all the information you need about what to do and what to expect

  3. Coming to the UK  

    We can arrange for you to be picked up at the airport, and taken to your accommodation  

  4. Studying at the College  

    A dedicated team at the College will be there to support you throughout your degree preparation course  

  5. Progress to your degree  

    When the time comes to progress to your degree, we’ll help you make the transition  

Support at the International College

While studying at the International College, you can visit our Student Services team whenever you need help. Whether you require academic support or just general advice about student life, our experienced team will always look out for your wellbeing. They’ll ensure you are getting the most out of your study abroad experience. 

People, Person, Woman, Student

Anxhela’s mental wellness tips  

Social activities

There will be lots of activities and events for you to join while at the College. For example, you could take part in sports tournaments, visit local attractions like Colchester Castle and Zoo, or discover nearby cities like Cambridge and London. It’s a great way to explore the UK and make new friends! 

Extra support

Support for under-18s

If you’re coming to study with us and you’re not yet 18, we’ll help you arrange a legal guardian. They will act as a 24/7 emergency contact, and will keep in touch with you throughout your studies. 

Additional support

We want to make sure that students with disabilities, medical conditions or potential complications receive any additional support they may need during their time with us. Let us know as soon as possible if you think this applies to you, and we can make sure your needs are met during your studies. 

Meet the team

daniel martin headshot

Daniel Martin

College Director

Richard Pentecost, head of college services

Richard Pentecost

Head of College Services

Accessories, Glasses, Blonde

Michelle Gibbons 

Learning and Teaching Director

Due to start a degree preparation course with us?

Any other questions?

Will there be a Welcome Week when I arrive?  

The first week of term will be Welcome Week, giving you (and your parents or guardians if they are with you) an opportunity to meet your teachers and classmates. You can take a tour of the University of Essex campus and facilities, and join social activities to help you meet new friends. We will also help with practicalities, such as registering with a doctor and finding the local supermarket.   


Is there extra support before I progress to my degree?  

Once you’ve completed your degree preparation course, we’ll still be here to support you as you make the transition to degree studies. This includes the option to take Pathways Extra, an online resource for students who have finished their degree preparation course, to help them prepare for starting their degree and develop additional employability skills. Find out more about Pathways Extra.


What if I don’t meet degree requirements on my course?  

Our degree preparation courses are specially designed for international students, and helping them get ready for university in the UK, so our degree progression rates are very high. However, if you aren’t able to start your chosen degree after successfully passing your course, you can make use of our University Placement Service, which guarantees you a place at a UK university.   

Join our community of international students

Students taking selfie at the University of Essex