Application Guide

Application Guide

Where do I go if a have a problem with internet access?

Please contact the helpdesk: 

Helpdesk@uws.ac.uk

Where is the nearest Hospital?

The Royal Alexandra Hospital, Corsebar Road, Paisley PA2 9PN
Telephone Number:
0141 887 9111

Where can I register with a Dentist?

Please come to the reception of your residence for information.

Where can I register with a Doctor?

There is a leaflet available at the reception of your residence.

Who is responsible for cleaning my flat?

It is the students own responsibility to clean their room and they are jointly responsible for cleaning their flat. The stairs and hallways outside the flats are cleaned on a regular basis by UWS staff. Some residences can offer an additional cleaning service for an agreed fee. At the end of the tenancy, flats must be returned in good condition or additional charges may be levied. Some residences have kitchens/lounges/corridors cleaned – see local staff for details. At the end of contract, any cleaning required in students' responsibility areas will be charged back to the student(s).

Can I keep a fridge in my room?

Fridges are not permitted in bedrooms. Arrangements are provided in the kitchen to store chilled foods. If you have a medical condition which requires you to have a fridge in your room evidence of this must be provided for the manager.

Can I personalise my room?

You are responsible for ensuring that you leave your room and flat in the same condition that it was given to you. You will be asked to fill in and return an inventory to record the condition of your room and must do so within 48-hours of moving in. Generally speaking, blu-tac, white-tac or pins put into walls will require re-painting after you have left and you may be charged in line with our standard schedule of charges. The management team will carry out several room and flat inspections at the end of your contract and we would advise you to make an appointment for inspection well in advance.

Where can I collect my post?

Post sent to the residence will be put directly under their door or held at reception, which is open during standard office hours. Anything that does not fit under your door such as parcel can be collected from reception. An email will be if you have any mail to be picked up. George Street and Lady Lane post will be delivered to the front door if you are not in your room they will leave a card so you can pick up the parcel from the local Post Office.

Where can I wash my clothes and bedding?

Each campus has a laundry with washing machines and dryers.

How do I make an insurance claim?

To make a claim you will need to contact the insurance company direct, details are available from reception, when you receive your offer for accommodation and on the Accommodation Website:

 http://www.uws.ac.uk/accommodation/ 

Do I need to move out over the Xmas and Easter holidays?

No, over the holidays you will have complete access to your room.

What if I am not happy with my allocated room or my flatmates?

The Accommodation Team hopes that all students will endeavour to "get on with" their flatmates who could be from differing backgrounds and cultures. If a student is extremely unhappy then room changes can be considered (subject to availability and a £30 administration charge). It is important to remember that moving to University is a stressful time, and that initial teething troubles are usually resolved within the first few weeks. UWS policy dictates that room changes will not be considered within a minimum of 6 weeks following move-in.

Am I allowed to bring a pet?

Pets are not allowed in any of the residences.

Where can I store my bike?

There are cycle racks on most sites where students can lock their bikes. These are left at the owners' risk. No bikes are allowed in the flats.

What about safety?

We provide 24-hour security, CCTV, electronic access control with security guards in all residences. Access is limited to students, their authorised visitors, and nominated contractors. Fire alarms are tested weekly, appropriate emergency signage is displayed and fire evacuation drills undertaken at the start of each academic year. Students are asked to help us ensure UWS residences remain safe by ensuring that all guests are signed in and out and all outside doors are closed when entering or leaving the building.

Is everything local to the residence?

University, amenities, leisure are all close to the residence. Local staff will be happy to help with directions and will issue a location guide to just about anything you need.

Can visitors park in the residence?

Parking (where available) is for authorised users only. All available parking spaces are allocated by the local management team. Reception will advise you on local car parks. Unauthorised vehicles risk being stickered.

Is there a limit to how many visitors are allowed?

Each student is permitted a maximum of one guest at a time; one night during the week and 1 night at the week-end. To ensure that the residence stays secure, visitors are required to sign in and out when they enter and leave the residence; anyone who does not comply will be asked to leave the site immediately.

Where can I smoke?

Smoking is not permitted in any UWS Residences, this policy includes all communal areas, lounges, hallways, corridors and stairwells as well as bedrooms, and it also extends to external courtyard areas. Residences will have specifically designated external smoking areas, please ask the team for details.

Do I need a TV Licence?

If you bring a TV for your room/flat you will require to pay for a television licence. Click the below links for further information on TV Licensing: 

http://www.tvlicensing.co.uk/check-if-you-need-one 

http://www.tvlicensing.co.uk/check-if-you-need-one/for-your-home/students-aud1

What cooking equipment is supplied?

UWS does not supply cooking equipment.

Can I bring a Wok?

Woks, frying pans and other cooking materials are permitted, however deep fat fryers and chip pans (the most likely causes of cooking-related fires) are not, as per the residence fire plan and as advised by local fire authorities.

Am I allowed candles?

UWS has a strict policy that candles are not permitted on site. This is as per the residence fire plan and as advised by local fire authorities.

Is there any kind of pastoral care?

Our residences have a team of staff on-site to help students with any issues which arise. Outside of office hours we manage a team of senior students who live on-site and are on call to assist students with any problems or issues they might have during what may be their first experience away from home. Senior students can help with a number of issues such as students who are finding it hard to mix, feeling homesick or just having trouble finding their way round. Senior students have access to our management team 24-hours a day. In addition nearly all of our residences have 24-hour on-site security, CCTV, electronic access control and individually secured rooms. Please check details of the residence of your choice to see what security arrangements are in place. UWS has a spiritual team:

http://www.uws.ac.uk/about-uws/services-for-students/student-support/spiritual-care/

Will there be a telephone in my room?

There are no telephones available in rooms.

Will I be able to get online in my room?

Broadband arrangements vary by residence; all residences have high-speed internet connections available. Please contact the Residence Team for full details. Bandwidth is managed and is not to be used for illegal purposes. Students using the internet for illegal gains could potentially have their internet access barred and risk prosecution from FACT (Federation Against Copyright Theft). UWS and associated broadband providers will not condone any illegal use of the internet and wireless bandwidth sharing is not permitted. All residents wishing to use the internet services must sign up to local terms and conditions of use.

Will I be able to park my car on site?

Limited car parking is available at some of our residences, please check details of the residence of your choice and then contact the residence management office to book in advance as availability may be limited. Storie Street residence does not have student parking.

Can I choose who I live with?

Rooms are allocated on the following basis: 

1. Room type ( Single/Double or Premium)

2. Contract length 

3. Gender 

4. Year of study

5. Other preferences

UWS endeavours to allocate students to flats that are appropriate to their situation and preferences, although it is not always possible to satisfy everyone. There is a data field on the postal application form and online booking service to state any preferences you may have and with whom you would like to live with. Please note that UWS can make no guarantees and all allocations are subject to availability.

Can I terminate my contract before the agreed date?

It is possible to terminate your contract if you can to find a suitable replacement for your room. Until a replacement has been found and has paid in full you will remain responsible for any payments due under your contract. Please contact the Residence Manger before you terminate your contract to discuss this.

Can I change my contract after I have signed it?

Changes can be made to the contract after it has been signed if you transfer rooms. Any requests for changes to the contract must be made by email to the residence in question. Any changes to the contract such as changes in room standard will incur a £30 administration fee and will be subject to availability and local management discretion.

How do I book if a do not have a personal email address?

You could apply by calling the Accommodation Office and one of the Accommodation Team will fill out an application form send an offer out to you by post.

How do I choose which type of room to book?

If you are booking for yourself then apply for a single room. Otherwise please see question referring to families/couples.

What are the check-in/checkout times?

There is no check in time however the check-out time is 10 a.m. on the day of departure.

Can I book if I am under 18 years of age?

Yes you can book accommodation if you are under 18 however we recommend that you ask your parent or legal representative to read the Rental Agreement.

Can I pay my rent with my student loan?

You can use your student loan to pay your rent. It is imperative that we have evidence of your student loan information at the application stage. You will not be given your keys before providing payment or a valid student loan schedule.

Will my bank charge me to make a bank transfer?

Your bank may charge you a fee to make a bank transfer into our account. It is your responsibility to pay this. Please ensure that you transfer enough money to cover both the rent and the transfer fee.

Who do I make my cheques payable to?

Please make all cheques payable to: The University of the West of Scotland.

Do I need to pay council tax?

As a student you are exempt from paying council tax. Registry located in J Block can print an exemption letter which you can take top the local council offices.

How do I pay for accommodation?

You can pay online using the following link: https://epayments.uws.ac.uk/open/

Do I need a guarantor?

The University does not request that you have a guarantor.

Can I pay with foreign currency or travellers cheques?

UWS cannot accept foreign currency of traveller’s cheques as payment. UWS would advise that the safest and simplest way to make payment is by Credit/Debit card, bank transfer or cheque at the start of your contract.

Is there a deposit?

There is no deposit however there is a payment payable before you arrive and is taken off your total accommodation fee.

What is not provided in the room/kitchen?

Pots, pans and towels are not provided.

Do you accommodate families or couples?

We have family flats at Paisley Campus and couple flats at both Paisley and Ayr Campus and they are subject to availability.

I will require disabled facilities?

We do have accessible accommodation at our residence; please add any comments on your application form regarding health or access issues. We also have a support for disabilities; please look at the following link: 

http://www.uws.ac.uk/about-uws/services-for-students/student-support/disability-service/support-for-disabilities/

Is there always a member of staff on-site?

All of our residences are staffed 24-hours a day, 7 days a week with trained security staff. Where full-time security is not present we have remote CCTV in operation with a remote security back up. In addition UWS has number of Student Wardens who live on-site and can provide guidance and support at all times and have access to our management team 24-hours a day. 

Where can I apply the UWS programme

You can apply via apply.uws.ac.uk.

For more info, please contact us via email.


Credibility Interview

International Student Support


What is a Credibility Interview?

Credibility Interviews are part of the Student Visa Application process. The purpose of the interview is to assess if you are a genuine and credible student. The interviews are conducted in English and your ability to speak English is part of the assessment. A transcript of your interview will be sent to the Home Office staff member who will assess your whole application. Your visa application can be refused if you fail to answer the interview questions to the satisfaction of Home Office staff. The Home Office aim to interview most students.

In the UK

You may be contacted to attend an interview. Your interview may be in person, over the phone or via video call.

Outside the UK

When you attend the visa application centre to submit your application and biometric information, you will be interviewed. You may also be asked to attend a further interview at a later date. Your initial interview will usually be via video call to a member of staff in the UK. Further interviews could be the same, via telephone or in person.

***You must ensure that you check your emails (including junk folder). If you do not attend your interview, your application will be automatically refused***

Preparation

It is extremely important that you prepare for your interview in advance so that you have the best chance of having a successful visa application. You should read through your “Statement of Purpose" from your application and ensure that you answer all questions you are asked honestly and fully.

• Be specific - give examples. Vague and generic answers can lead to visa refusals

• Provide detail - demonstrate that you have researched the course and that you have genuine reasons for coming to the UK

• Be honest - make sure your application is personal to you. Do not quote general statements referring to our website.

Example Questions and what to consider in your answer

Be prepared to answer any question about your decision to study in the UK and specifically about your course at UWS. Think about these 5 areas:

#1 Personal reasons for choosing to study in the UK

What other countries did you consider? Why is UWS a better option than studying in your home country? With extra costs involved in studying overseas, what are the benefits to you?

#2 Your University choice

Why did you choose UWS? How does your future study plan relate to your most recent studies or employment? What are the campus facilities like? Where will you live? If you have previously studied in the UK, why have you chosen to return now? Or, if you have had a long break in your studies, why have you chosen to return to the UK?

#3 Your Course choice

What is it specifically about the UWS course you have chosen? How does this compare to other courses? How is your course assessed and what modules are covered? You may find it useful to refer to our website.

#4 Your finances

How do you plan to pay for your course? Is this your money or your parents' money? Can you justify this significant investment. Are you aware of the total living costs in the UK including how much your accommodation will cost? Have a detailed plan of your expenses. If you have official financial sponsorship make sure you are aware of the amounts and exactly what is covered. If you have a loan, how will you afford to pay this back?

#5 Your future career goals

What will you learn that will allow you to progress your career? You need to be able to explain why the course and its content will lead to your career goal. What have you done to advance your career during any "gaps" in study. What are your plans after you graduate?

The interviewer will also be checking your ability to converse well in English, if there is any issue with hearing them clearly e.g. via the video link, you should ensure that you raise this so that they are aware that it is a technical issue not one of comprehension.

Further information click on the web links below to take you to the relevant websites

Visit the main UWS website and the International section

Visit the UKCISA (UK Council for International Student Affairs) website

Visit the British Council website

Read the current Home Office Student Visa

If you have any further questions about your visa application or your Credibility Interview please contact the International Student Support team.

If you experience something that you were not expecting or would like to inform us about your Credibility Interview process, please send us an email.


 

International Student Support

UKVI Student Visa

Credibility Interview Guide

What is a Credibility Interview?

Credibility Interviews are part of the Student Visa Application process. The purpose of the interview is to assess if you are a genuine and credible student. The interviews are conducted in English and your ability to speak English is part of the assessment. A transcript of your interview will be sent to the Home Office staff member who will assess your whole application. Your visa application can be refused if you fail to answer the interview questions to the satisfaction of Home Office staff. The Home Office aim to interview most students.

In the UK

You may be contacted to attend an interview. Your interview may be in person, over the phone or via video call.

Outside the UK

When you attend the visa application centre to submit your application and biometric information, you will be interviewed. You may also be asked to attend a further interview at a later date. Your initial interview will usually be via video call to a member of staff in the UK. Further interviews could be the same, via telephone or in person.

***You must ensure that you check your emails (including junk folder). If you do not attend your interview, your application will be automatically refused***

Preparation

It is extremely important that you prepare for your interview in advance so that you have the best chance of having a successful visa application. You should read through your “Statement of Purpose" from your application and ensure that you answer all questions you are asked honestly and fully.

• Be specific - give examples. Vague and generic answers can lead to visa refusals

• Provide detail - demonstrate that you have researched the course and that you have genuine reasons for coming to the UK

• Be honest - make sure your application is personal to you. Do not quote general statements referring to our website.

Example Questions and what to consider in your answer

Be prepared to answer any question about your decision to study in the UK and specifically about your course at UWS. Think about these 5 areas:

#1 Personal reasons for choosing to study in the UK

What other countries did you consider? Why is UWS a better option than studying in your home country? With extra costs involved in studying overseas, what are the benefits to you?

#2 Your University choice

Why did you choose UWS? How does your future study plan relate to your most recent studies or employment? What are the campus facilities like? Where will you live? If you have previously studied in the UK, why have you chosen to return now? Or, if you have had a long break in your studies, why have you chosen to return to the UK?

#3 Your Course choice

What is it specifically about the UWS course you have chosen? How does this compare to other courses? How is your course assessed and what modules are covered? You may find it useful to refer to our website.

#4 Your finances

How do you plan to pay for your course? Is this your money or your parents' money? Can you justify this significant investment. Are you aware of the total living costs in the UK including how much your accommodation will cost? Have a detailed plan of your expenses. If you have official financial sponsorship make sure you are aware of the amounts and exactly what is covered. If you have a loan, how will you afford to pay this back?

#5 Your future career goals

What will you learn that will allow you to progress your career? You need to be able to explain why the course and its content will lead to your career goal. What have you done to advance your career during any "gaps" in study. What are your plans after you graduate?

The interviewer will also be checking your ability to converse well in English, if there is any issue with hearing them clearly e.g. via the video link, you should ensure that you raise this so that they are aware that it is a technical issue not one of comprehension.

Further information click on the web links below to take you to the relevant websites

Visit the main UWS website and the International section

Visit the UKCISA (UK Council for International Student Affairs) website

Visit the British Council website

Read the current Home Office Student Visa

If you have any further questions about your visa application or your Credibility Interview please contact the International Student Support team.

If you experience something that you were not expecting or would like to inform us about your Credibility Interview process, please send us an email.

Designed by Printing Services, University of the West of Scotland. University of the West of Scotland is a registered Scottish charity. Charity number SC002520

Credibility Interview Guidance

You may be invited to an interview with UKVI as part of your Visa application. 

Please download UKVI interview introduction from here for further information

 

Can I use my parent(s)/legal guardian(s) as a financial sponsor?

If you are relying on money held by your parent(s)/legal guardian(s) you will need to provide us with the

following information: bank statement, birth certificate confirming relationship and an affidavit or letter


How long do the funds for my fees & living costs need to be held in my bank account?

International students must show that they have held the required amount of money (tuition fee and living costs)

in their bank for a period of 28 consecutive days. Bank statement must be within 1 month of visa application.

Bank statement has to be on official letterhead and bear company stamp.

The funds must be accessible and can be withdrawn at any time.

When is the latest date I can receive my CAS?

For out of the UK applicants the deadline is 4 weeks before enrolment commences. 

For applicants in the UK the deadline is 1 week after enrolment commences. 

Please note visa processing times may vary from country to country, especially during peak times.

When will I receive my CAS?

Your CAS will be issued when you have met all of the conditions of your offer and meet all UK Visa &

Immigration requirements. Please note that the CAS will only be issued within 3 months of the start date of

the programme. You can only apply for your visa within 3 months of course start date.

Who will send out my CAS?

he International Admissions CAS team at UWS will issue and send your CAS to you. Please note that your

CAS is unique to you, UWS and your visa application. It is important and must be kept safely and used to

apply for your UK student visa.

What is a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)?

The CAS is not an actual certificate. Each CAS has a unique reference number and contains information

about the course of study for which it has been issued and the student’s personal details. You must be in

possession of a CAS before you apply for your UK Student Visa.

Is UWS an official sponsor?

UWS has Tier 4 Sponsor status and is on the list of organisations licensed to sponsor migrants under Tier 4 of

the points-based system.

Contact Details

Ms. Jun Chen
Jun.Chen@uws.ac.uk
Mr. Caiyong Zhuang
Caiyong.Zhuang@uws.ac.uk

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