Arriving in Leeds
Here's some information to help you prepare for your arrival in Leeds. We look forward to welcoming you to the International Pathways Centre and the University of Leeds.
Key information
Key dates
We will email you nearer to this time with a detailed timetable.
Travelling to Leeds
Our nearest airports are Leeds Bradford Airport (a 30-minute taxi ride from the University) and Manchester Airport (one-and-a-half hours by direct train). Our travel information for international students can help you plan your journey to Leeds.
What to bring
Check the essential documents for international students you need to bring.
Police registration
When you arrive in Leeds, you may need to register with the police, depending on where you've come from and how long you'll be here.
Register with a doctor
As a student in Leeds, you'll need to register with a doctor, and know where to go if you need medical treatment or advice.
Collecting your biometric residence permit
If you have a Tier 4 (General) student visa or a short-term study visa and are attending a course for six months or longer, youll need to collect your biometric residence permit (BRP) when you arrive in Leeds.
Opening a bank account
If you're moving to Leeds from overseas you'll need access to your money. The easiest way is to open a UK bank account.
Asking for help
If you've got a question or problem, please ask for help as soon as you need it. There's lots of information available and people who can advise you.
Theres a wide range of support and wellbeing services available to you. Whatever youre feeling and thinking, please dont be afraid to ask for help.
If its your first time in Leeds, theres also guidance on:
- local transport and finding your way around
- where to buy food, clothes and equipment
- health care and registering with a doctor.
Prayer, contemplation and faith-based support
University quiet spaces, prayer facilities and faith-based support give you the chance to take time out, reflect, and connect with local faith communities.
Leeds University Union events
You can join one of the Leeds University Union clubs and societies where you can make friends and take part in events you enjoy.
University life once you're here
Hear about life at the University from an International Foundation Year student.
You can also read student Mika's blog post about settling into life in Leeds and International Foundation Year studies (Link to Leeds blog post).