Supporting international students

Students from outside the UK face many of the same issues and difficulties as those from the UK but they may also face special problems.

International student support summary

Common difficulties

The most obvious problems include language ability, payment of fees, scholarships and immigration and visa requirements.

Grappling with differences in learning styles and approaches to academic life can also be very difficult.

'Culture shock'

Such difficulties may be exacerbated if students are living far from home and struggling to adjust to a different culture. These emotional effects may not be recognised by the students themselves but they have an important impact on mood and motivation.

International students suffering from significant or enduring personal or emotional difficulties should contact the Open Door Team. In some cases, this will require encouragement as our ideas about receiving support or counselling can seem quite alien to those from other countries.

Helping international students

You may wish to consult our information for international students for detailed advice on travelling to, living, studying and working in York.

Overall responsibility for the support of international students is held by the International Student Support Co-ordinator, Louise Saunderson. She is based in the Student Support Office.

If you are concerned about an international student and unsure where to refer them, email international-support@york.ac.uk.

Immigration issues

Queries relating to immigration issues should be referred to the University of York Immigration Advice Service.

Immigration issues include: visa renewals, international students working during or after studies, travel abroad whilst on a visa, visitors from overseas and any other matter which may have an impact upon a student's visa status.

You should not attempt to deal with any queries relating to immigration as the giving of advice in this area is restricted by law to designated persons with appropriate training.

International students taking leave of absence/suspension of studies

Any international student planning to take leave of absence or suspension of studies must be strongly advised to consult the Immigration Advice Service immediately as there are likely to be visa implications.

If these are not dealt with the student may not be able to renew their visa when they have resumed their studies and could be required to leave the country.