Study Abroad FAQs
Do I need a visa?
Non-EU citizens will need a visa to study in the UK. If you are planning to spend less than six months in the UK and do not intend to work, you will need a Short-term Study Visa. Students from particular countries can obtain a Short-term Study Visa at the border without needing to apply in advance. Take this quick online survey to confirm if you will need to apply in advance for your visa.
If you plan to work or do an internship as part of your Study Abroad programme, or if your programme lasts longer than six months, you will need a Tier 4 Visa. Find out more here.
What costs are included in the programme?
Many of you will pay a programme fee to your home institution or Study Abroad provider that will cover your tuition and housing. For those of you paying your fees directly to Roehampton, you can find our costs here.
How do I get to Roehampton on arrivals day?
We run a free pick-up service from Heathrow Airport that will bring you to campus and help you get set up in your accommodation. We will share a link to sign up to the pick-up online a few weeks before your arrival. We will also send out general transport instructions if you are travelling to campus from elsewhere.
What happens during Orientation?
We will send you a full Orientation timetable shortly before your arrival. You will attend a series of informative sessions covering what to expect from your life in London, go on a campus tour and attend an evening of fun social activities.
How do I register for classes?
As part of your application you will be asked to list your preferred modules to take at Roehampton. We will allocate your classes based on your preferences and according to availability.
What if I change my mind about the classes I picked?
During your last day of Orientation, you will have the chance to speak with an administrator from one of our academic departments who can make amendments to your timetable. There will also be an add/drop period during the first two weeks of classes when you can make any essential last-minute changes.
How will my credits transfer back to my home university?
Following completion of your Study Abroad programme at Roehampton, we will send a copy of your academic transcript to your home university so that your credits can be transferred. This will normally be done within three months of your departure from Roehampton. You must ensure your home university will accept credit gained for each class before you begin your studies at Roehampton.
How many credits are my classes at Roehampton worth?
Each class you take at Roehampton will be worth 10 or 20 UK credits. 10 UK credits is considered equivalent to 3 US credits or 5 ECTS.
How do I apply for accommodation?
If you indicated you would like to live in on-campus accommodation in your Roehampton Abroad application, we have reserved a room for you. We will be in touch around a month before your arrival with instructions to finalise your housing arrangements.
What is university housing like?
The University aims to provide a supportive living and learning environment promoting academic and personal growth and a sense of community among students. You will live in a single-occupancy bedroom in a flat or hall with other students. You will have shared kitchen and bathroom facilities. You can request an en-suite room with a private bathroom, subject to availability.
Is the accommodation disability inclusive?
There are a number of accessible rooms available to disabled students. You can email disabilities@roehampton.ac.uk to discuss any facilities you may need.
Is there a meal plan available?
You have the option to purchase a meal plan that can be used in our on-campus food outlets, which include cafes where you can grab a quick bite or cafeterias serving main meals. All on-campus accommodation includes fully equipped kitchens if you would prefer to buy groceries and cook for yourself.
What is included in the Social Programme?
Our Social Programme includes five excursions to fun and fascinating attractions around London and the wider UK, all with the help and knowledge of a qualified guide. You might see a West End show, visit an iconic London landmark or spend a weekend away in the countryside. We will share the full list of trips before you arrive so you can see what’s in store.
How much does the Social Programme cost?
The cost of the Social Programme is £390. You might already have it included in your programme fee, so check before you buy!
Do I need medical insurance?
If you are an EU citizen you can access treatment through the National Health Service using your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). If you are a non-EU citizen you will have access to some services for free, but others will cost you. We recommend purchasing medical insurance to avoid having to pay for certain services.
Is there a gym on campus?
Yes – our on-campus gym offers the latest equipment, virtual fitness classes and favourable membership rates for students. There is also a wide range of sport and fitness activity clubs operating on campus. Find out more here.
What transport links are nearby?
The Roehampton campus has excellent transport connections that can take you into the heart of London in less than half an hour. Barnes train station, which is a 15-minute walk or 5-minute bus ride from campus, is just a few stops from the major transport hubs of Clapham Junction and London Waterloo. The busy and vibrant areas of Putney, Clapham, Wimbledon and Richmond are a short journey away by bus or train.
Are there any student clubs or societies at Roehampton?
Roehampton has dozens of student societies you can join, and our Students’ Union will help you if you want to set one up. There are over 50 in total, including a Vegan Society, LGBTQ+ Society, Esports Society and our long-running drama group, the Roehampton Players, whose former members including current West End stars. Joining a society will help you build confidence, develop you interests and make new friends. Find out more about student life here.