Support for Pre-sessional students

It’s ok to ask for a helping hand when you get here!

The first few weeks at university are undoubtedly an exciting time, but it’s also inevitable that some challenges will appear along the way.   You are absolutely not alone and we are here to help.

Student Mentors - International Support

Student Mentors are trained to provide free advice and guidance to students living in University accommodation. They can help with a range of issues including:

• Shared living and accommodation issues
• Your academic course
• Financial matters
• Your general wellbeing whilst living and studying at the University

Student Mentors can meet with you on a one-to-one basis, for however long you need.  They can support you with settling into university life and adjusting and familiarising yourself with your new surroundings.  For example, finding where your lectures will be taking place, getting to know the library, understanding your timetable, as well as finding out what events are taking place across campus and in the local area, plus much more!

Student Mentors can also offer a mediation service to help you work through any flat issues, guidance on keeping yourself safe (including free personal attack alarms) and general advice if you’re worried about a friend or flat mate.

There is no problem too big or too small, so whatever you need help with, and whenever you need it, your Student Mentors can help.

Birmingham International Academy (BIA)

Birmingham International Academy (BIA) runs the Pre-sessional Programmes for international students. These are intensive, motivating and challenging Academic English courses. They focus on the language, concepts and study skills necessary for academic success in your degree courses.

During term time, BIA provides in sessional English language support to undergraduate and postgraduate students studying on their main programmes at the University (such as guidance on essay writing, time management and exam techniques).

Contact BIA

Online: www.birmingham.ac.uk/international/bia

Tel: (0121) 414 6209

Email: presessional@contacts.bham.ac.uk

Visit: BIA is located in the Priorsfield building on Edgbaston Park Road

Events

The Guild of Students, Student Mentor Scheme and the Birmingham International Academy (BIA) host a number of fantastic events throughout your time here.

During the summer, a number of events will be arranged for you take part in.  these include; trips to cities of interest such as Oxford, Cambridge and Stratford-Upon-Avon, trips to historical places such as Warwick Castle and The Black Country Living Museum, fun events in accommodation such as film nights, chocolate tasting and karaoke as well as help exploring your local area and the fantastic city of Birmingham with a train ride and treasure hunt!

From September onwards (Welcome Week and beyond) the Guild of Students will host a number of fantastic events for all students.  If you have any queries about forthcoming events then please don’t hesitate to get in touch!