Preparation and arrival
This page includes important information that will help you prepare to study abroad at Leeds, such as visas, accommodation and what happens when you arrive.
Key dates
At Leeds, we have two semesters that are taught over three terms.
For the first semester starting in September, welcome and arrival activity will begin two weeks before the start of teaching. For the second semester starting in January, welcome and arrival activity will begin a few days before teaching starts.
You can find exam dates on the academic calendar and see when you receive your transcript on the exams and transcripts page.
Accommodation
After you have received an offer letter and your University of Leeds ID number, you can apply for accommodation.
We guarantee accommodation for international students provided you meet our accommodation deadlines for exchange students.
If you will be studying at Leeds for semester 1 only, we will offer you an accommodation contract that finishes during the middle of the January exam period.
When your exam timetable has been published, you can email the accommodation office at accom@leeds.ac.uk to apply to extend your contract if you need to include any additional time up until the end of the semester.
Immigration and visa advice
It is important that you think about immigration before you make any travel plans. Learn more about visas for study abroad, exchange and summer school programmes.
If you are studying for a single semester and wish to apply for a Student visa, you will need to request a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) number by emailing the Study Abroad Office via studyabroad@leeds.ac.uk.
If you are studying for a full year, you will receive a CAS automatically and you do not need to request this.
If you are studying in the UK for a single semester and do not need a visa, you may need to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to travel to the UK. You can check the UK Government website to see if you need to apply for an ETA.
Preparing to study with us
If you are an incoming study abroad student starting in September 2025, we recommend you arrive from 17 September 2025, depending on when your accommodation contract starts.
It is important that you arrive in Leeds in time to attend international orientation and your school induction.
We offer a free pick up service from Leeds Bradford Airport and Manchester Airport for all new incoming Study Abroad students arriving in Leeds for the first time. You can also collect a free SIM card when you arrive so you can keep in touch with friends and family.
We know there is a lot to organise when you first arrive in a new country. Our Welcome Guide will take you through all the steps of your journey, from preparing to arrive to everything you need to know and do in your first weeks in Leeds.
Want to know more about being a student at Leeds?
Chat to one of our current students to find out what it’s like to be part of our welcoming community. Link to Leeds gives you an opportunity to chat to students from a range of subject areas and countries.
Our ambassadors are here to share their experiences with you and tell you more about what it’s like being a University of Leeds student. Chat with our ambassadors and join events.