Student Guide

Are you joining us at Bangor University International College?

To help you get started, we’d like to invite you to our upcoming student webinars. These sessions are designed to give you all the essential information you need for a smooth transition. You’ll also get the chance to meet our college staff, student support officers, and current students who have been exactly where you are and can share valuable advice.

✨ Why join?

• Gain step-by-step guidance on your pre-arrival journey
• Meet the people who will support you throughout your studies
• Ask questions and get answers live during the session

📌 Missed a webinar?

• No problem — recordings will be available afterwards. If you still have questions, our team is here to help.

✈️ Pre-Arrival Webinar

• • Our Student Experience team will walk you through everything you need to know before arriving at the international college.

What you will learn:

• • • • Information and updates about booking your visa
      • Booking your accommodation
      • What is registration?
      • Booking your flight
      • Bringing dependants
      • Arriving in the UK
      • Notable dates
      • Your journey to the college
      • How to complete your online registration
      • The cost of living in the UK
      • Welcome week and induction
      • And much more!

You’ll also get an opportunity to hear from our Student Experience Officers, who will be on hand to help you as soon as you arrive in the UK.

Upcoming Pre-Arrival Webinars:

Sorry there are no webinars scheduled at the moment, please check back closer to your enrolment.

To avoid any delays in receiving your student visa, it is crucial to apply for your visa as soon as you have received your Confirmation of Acceptance for Study (CAS) letter. Any delay in getting your visa may affect your ability to register for your course on time.

Please follow this link to apply. This website will guide you through the entire process and make it easy. If you have any questions during this process, reach out to our team.

As part of your student visa application, you may be asked to attend an interview with a UKVI caseworker. For guidance, visit our guide on how to prepare for your visa interview.

You must book your accommodation before your arrival to the UK.

For accommodation, you have two options: University Halls and private accommodation.

Please keep in mind that the option you choose must be within a 40-mile radius of the university campus. You will not be able to register with us unless you provide proof of a tenancy agreement showing that you live within a 40-mile radius of the university campus. Further information is provided below.

University Halls

Bangor University offers several residence hall options, explore your options here. If you prefer to live in student halls, we recommend applying early, as places fill up quickly.

If you plan to book accommodation with the university, please ensure that you meet the following conditions:

• you hold a Conditional or Unconditional Offer letter and you have paid your tuition fee deposit

or

• you have been issued a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) letter.

To book your accommodation, follow the steps below:

Step 1: Apply for the academic course of your choice at the university and wait for an Offer of Admission (Conditional or Unconditional Offer Letter)

Step 2: Once you have your CAS and student ID you can apply for the room of their choice through our online accommodation booking system here 

If you have any queries with this system, please contact: +44(0)1248 382667 / hallsofresidence@bangor.ac.uk 

BUIC Under 18s

University offers under 18 accommodation, including age 16. Same application process as 18+

Private Student Accommodation

• Casita
• Homes for students
• Student Pad

Private Accommodation

• Spare Room – Rooms for rent Bangor, Gwynedd flatshare Bangor, Gwynedd house share rooms to let (spareroom.co.uk) 
• Right Move – Properties to rent in the UK | Flats and Houses to Rent | Rightmove
• Zoopla – Houses & flats to rent | Properties to rent in the UK – Zoopla 

Recommendations

It is recommended that you move into your accommodation a day or two prior to your course start date. This will allow you to be well-rested and prepared for our informative and engaging induction events.

All students in the UK on a Student Route visa MUST reside within a 40-mile radius of the university campus. Student Route visa Students who declare a term-time address outside of a 40-mile radius or who are believed to have declared an address at which they do not genuinely reside during term time will have their registration cancelled, and the University will notify UKVI of a withdrawal of Student Route sponsorship for that Student.

As mentioned above, you will not be able to register with us unless you provide proof of a tenancy agreement showing that you live within a 40-mile radius of the university campus. Please be aware that we will request updates on your accommodation details via CAS Shield, the online self-service system you used to submit your CAS documents.

Immediately after you receive your visa, book your flight. When booking your flight, please make sure you arrive a few days before your first day of the term so you have enough time to check in to your accommodation and join your classes on time.

We will request updates on your flight details via CAS Shield, the online self-service system that you used when you submitted your CAS documents. Once you’ve booked your flight, please upload your flight ticket on CAS Shield so we can prepare for your arrival.

This page shows routes to Bangor from major UK airports, Manchester being the best option.

Airport pickup

Bangor University offers an airport pick-up service from Manchester Airport for students arriving at peak times for £45. (This is only available for September and January intake) You can book this service here: Airport Pick-up Booking Form | International Education Centre |

Accommodation

• University accommodation: From £105/week, including bills, internet and gym membership.
• Private student accommodation: £110-£230/week (rent only).
• Shared house or flat: £100 – £250 per week.
• Utilities & internet: £40–£80/month. Often included in university accommodation.
• Avoid areas with commutes over 45 minutes

Find more how to book accommodation here

Food and essentials

• Budget supermarkets: Asda, Lidl and ALDI
• Morrisons is the closest
• Food & Groceries: £80 to £160 per month
• Bedding and kitchen items: Amazon, Home Bargains and Marks & Spencer
• Winter clothes: Sports Direct, Matalan and Go Outdoors
• Toiletries and basics: Aldi, Morrison and Boots

Transportation 

Registration is a two-stage process, both are compulsory and need to be completed in the sequence outlined below:

STAGE 1 – Online Registration

Online registration is a compulsory requirement, and all students need to complete it. The details that you will provide as part of the online registration task will allow us to prepare for your arrival such as creating your Student ID card, setting up your university email address and enable your IT facilities.

Once you’ve received your CAS, you will be sent an email from Bangor University (BU) to complete your online registration, with your username, and separate email with your password. Please note that this won’t be earlier than 3 weeks before your course start date.

Once you’ve activated your BU account you will be able to enter the registration portal and complete your registration.

Please note that you will not be able to attend lessons or receive your timetable until online registration, BUIC registration & proof of address, new student induction has been completed.

Online registration link 

STAGE 2 – Document Checks (Face to face)

Once the online registration is complete, you will need to complete document checks after you have completed BUIC registration and New Student Introduction meeting. You will then be directed by the college to the University Academic Engagement Team, you will need a wrist from the college before you attend your appointment.

To note: Do not send these documents to the email, but please have them ready for checking at your face-to-face appointment time.

You will need: current, valid and in date passport and relevant immigration document (e.g. stamped entry vignette and eVisa), original versions of your qualification certificates and proof of address.

You must attend in order to have your full registration finalised and to officially become a university student. Without full registration status you will be classed as non-arrival, and this will have an impact on your visa.

Please note that you will not be able to register with us unless you provide proof of tenancy agreement showing that you live within 1 hour commute of the university.

Setting up your eVisa account:

You can set up your eVisa as soon as your visa is granted. You should create your UKVI online account before arriving in the UK. This ensures you can manage your digital immigration status without delays.

Steps to Take:

1. Access Your eVisa: Create a UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account to access your eVisa (Get Access – eVisa)

Ensure your personal details and the passport you will use for travel are correctly linked to your UKVI account. (Making sure your eVisa is correct)

2. Verify Your eVisa Details: Use the ‘View and Prove Your Immigration Status’ service to confirm that your immigration status is displayed correctly and that you have permission to travel to the UK.

We are committed to providing you with the best possible student experience. To help you settle into your studies and make friends, we will organise informative introductions and orientation events. We strongly advise that you attend all these events and lectures from day one to achieve the best possible academic outcome. Therefore, we suggest that you arrive at the College no later than the course start date as stated in your offer letter and Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)

If you anticipate arriving in the UK after your course start date, it is crucial to inform us as soon as possible. Please email the Pre-Arrival team at arrivalsupport@oxfordinternational.com

Kindly note that late arrival requests submitted to other teams will delay processing. To ensure a prompt response, all requests must be directed to the Pre-Arrival team at the email provided above.

By Train

1. From Manchester Airport to Manchester Piccadilly:

Take the train from Manchester Airport to Manchester Piccadilly. Trains are frequent and the journey takes about 20 minutes.

2. From Manchester Piccadilly to Bangor (Gwynedd):

At Manchester Piccadilly, take a direct train to Bangor (Gwynedd). This journey usually takes around 2 to 2.5 hours.

3. From Bangor Train Station to Bangor University International College:

Once you arrive at Bangor train station, you can either walk, take a taxi to reach Bangor University International College.

Walking: It’s about a 20-25 minute walk. Head west on the A5 (Holyhead Road), turn right onto Ffriddoedd Road, continue straight onto Victoria Drive, and you will reach Oswalds Building.

Taxi: Taxis are available outside the train station. The ride to Bangor University International College should take about 5-10 minutes. (Cost approximately £5)

By coach

1. From Manchester Airport to Manchester Central:

– Take a bus or tram from the airport to Manchester Central. Buses 43 and 103 connect the airport to the city centre. Alternatively, the tram service to Cornbrook and then switching to a tram to Manchester Piccadilly Gardens can be used.

2. From Manchester Central to Bangor:

– From Manchester Central, take a coach service to Bangor. National Express and Megabus offer services between Manchester and Bangor. The journey takes about 3 to 4 hours.

3. From Bangor Bus Station to Bangor University International College:

– By Taxi: A taxi ride takes about 5-10 minutes.

– By Walking: Walk along the High Street towards College Rd, then turn right onto Victoria Drive

By private car/taxi

Taxi: You can hire a taxi for the entire journey. This will be the most expensive option but offers convenience and door-to-door service. Pre-book a taxi for the best rates and confirm the price in advance. Journey time is approximately 1.5 hours depending on traffic

By Train

1. From Birmingham Airport to Birmingham New Street:

– Option 1: Take the free Air-Rail Link from the airport to Birmingham International train station.

– Option 2: From Birmingham International train station, take a direct train to Birmingham New Street. Trains run frequently, and the journey takes about 10-15 minutes.

2. From Birmingham New Street to Bangor:

– Step 1: At Birmingham New Street, board a train heading to Bangor (Gwynedd). Trains to Bangor typically involve one or two changes, usually at Crewe and/or Chester.

Example Route 1: Birmingham New Street to Crewe, then change at Crewe for a train to Bangor.

Example Route 2: Birmingham New Street to Chester, then change at Chester for a train to Bangor.

– The total journey time from Birmingham New Street to Bangor is approximately 3-4 hours, depending on the connections.

3. From Bangor Train Station to Bangor University International College:

Once you arrive at Bangor train station, you can either walk, take a taxi to reach Bangor University International College.

Walking: It’s about a 20-25 minute walk. Head west on the A5 (Holyhead Road), turn right onto Ffriddoedd Road, continue straight onto Victoria Drive, and you will reach Oswalds Building.

Taxi: Taxis are available outside the train station. The ride to Bangor University International College should take about 5-10 minutes. (Cost approximately £5)

By coach

1. From Birmingham Airport to Birmingham Coach Station:

– Take a train or taxi from Birmingham Airport to Birmingham Coach Station (Digbeth).

2. From Birmingham Coach Station to Bangor:

– National Express or other coach services operate routes from Birmingham to Bangor. The journey by coach can take 5-6 hours, depending on the schedule and stops.

3. From Bangor Coach Stop to Bangor University International College:

Once you arrive at Bangor train station, you can either walk, take a taxi.

Walking: It’s about a 20-25 minute walk. Head west on the A5 (Holyhead Road), turn right onto Ffriddoedd Road, continue straight onto Victoria Drive, and you will reach Oswalds Building.

Taxi: Taxis are available outside the train station. The ride to Bangor University International College should take about 5-10 minutes. (Cost approximately £5)

By private car/taxi

Taxi: You can hire a taxi for the entire journey. This will be the most expensive option but offers convenience and door-to-door service. Pre-book a taxi for the best rates and confirm the price in advance. Journey time is approximately 3 hours depending on traffic

By train

1. From Heathrow Airport to London Euston:

– Heathrow Express: Take the Heathrow Express train from Heathrow Airport to London Paddington Station. The journey takes about 15-20 minutes.

– London Underground: From London Paddington, take the Circle or Hammersmith & City line to Euston Square. Walk to London Euston Station (5-minute walk).

2. From London Euston to Bangor:

– Take a direct train from London Euston to Bangor (Gwynedd). The journey takes approximately 3.5 hours. Trains are operated by Avanti West Coast or Transport for Wales.

3. From Bangor Station to Bangor University International College:

Once you arrive at Bangor train station, you can either walk, take a taxi to reach Bangor University International College.

Walking: It’s about a 20-25 minute walk. Head west on the A5 (Holyhead Road), turn right onto Ffriddoedd Road, continue straight onto Victoria Drive, and you will reach Oswalds Building.

Taxi: Taxis are available outside the train station. The ride to Bangor University International College should take about 5-10 minutes. (Cost approximately £5)

By coach

1. From Heathrow Airport to London Victoria Coach Station:

– Take the National Express coach from Heathrow Airport to London Victoria Coach Station. The journey takes about 1 hour.

2. From London Victoria Coach Station to Bangor:

– Take a National Express coach from London Victoria to Bangor. The journey takes approximately 8 hours.

3. From Bangor Coach Stop to Bangor University International College:

– By Taxi: A taxi ride takes about 5-10 minutes.

– By Walking: Walk along the High Street towards College Rd, then turn right onto Victoria Drive

By private car/taxi

A taxi is not recommended due to the price and distance, with an average journey time of 4.5 hours. If you do wish to book a taxi, please ensure you do so in advance and confirm the cost.

Directions:

• Google Maps – Oswalds Building, Victoria Dr, Bangor LL57 2EN

Buying Train Tickets:

• National Rail – Welcome to the Official source for UK trains | National Rail
• Trainline – Search, Compare & Buy Cheap Train Tickets

Buying coach Tickets:

• National Express – Coach Travel & Airport Transfers | National Express
• Megabus – Low cost coach and train travel in the UK 

Booking Taxi’s Pre-Arrival:

• Jewels Airport Transfers – UK Airport Transfer Service to and from All Airports

Booking Taxi’s in Bangor:

• Premier Cars – +44(0)1248 362362

For further information, you can also check this link, provided by the university!

You will need to complete BUIC registration, Online registration and attend your Introduction meeting. After you have completed your Introduction meeting you will then be issued a wristband and directed to the Main Arts Building where you can complete your ID check (1st floor) and collect your Student ID card (Library).  Please ensure you take your passport, qualifications and proof of address (original documentation).  Failure to do this will delay you becoming fully registered.

It is important that you declare any medical conditions, disabilities or specific learning differences during your admission stage so that we can prepare to support you before you arrive. However, you will also get the opportunity to let us know during your face-to-face registration. You can let us know anytime if anything changes and we can offer support and guidance.

Keep us up to date with your details (UK address, phone number, email) if anything changes. You can change any details on the ‘Personal Information’ tile of the DMU Student Portal app. You can also email bicstudents@bangor.ac.uk

Once you have completed your ID check you will be given a ticket by the Academic Engagement Team and directed to the library (ground floor at the back of Library) to collect your Student ID card.  Your Student ID card is used to access University services/buildings and to claim student discounts.

Set up your UNIDAYS account to receive hundreds of student discount offers – https://www.myunidays.com/GB/en-GB

GP (General Practitioner) is a doctor that provides medical treatment and can refer you to other National Health Services (NHS)
dmu.ac.uk/healthy/take-care/gp-registration.aspx

The team at BUIC will assist with registering with a local Doctor.  When registering you will need you passport, share code from your eVisa portal and Student ID Card, Passport and Student ID. Find out more below.

Find out more about Bangor University Health Services here

Free SIM cards are available from the International Student Support Office (Rathbone, College Rd, LL57 2DG) or at BUIC reception.

Find out more with Bangor University’s guide to getting the best mobile phone deal here

When you arrive in Bangor you will most likely want to open a bank account if you are going to be here for more than a few months.

Everyone who possesses a TV, or devices such as a radio or tablet, must pay a TV licence fee.  TV licences must be renewed annually and can be purchased from the Post Office or online.  For more information go to www.tvlicensing.co.uk

You will need your Bangor University email and My Bangor login password to access Eduroam (University network). If you are experiencing difficulties, please call BUIC reception or alternatively email IT Support at helpdesk@bangor.ac.uk.

During your face-to-face registration, you will receive a quick post arrival survey to complete. This will allow us to see how you have found your arrival at the College and highlight to us any areas of improvement or changes that we can make to ensure the process is as smooth as possible for students.

The schedule of events for the term will be confirmed at the Introduction Meeting. It is a great way for you to meet new friends and discover what Bangor and the surrounding area has to offer for students.

The induction sessions will help you familiarise yourself with the College, the team, the campus and facilities, and the city. It will also be an opportunity to speak with current students and to make friends. You will receive a lot of useful information about how to open a bank account, how to register with a doctor and what services are available to you. You will also attend an academic induction during the first week of teaching. This is an opportunity for you to meet your tutors, learn all about your course, meet classmates and ask questions.

These inductions also give you the opportunity to ask questions and get an understanding of what to expect during your time at the college.

Your timetable will be sent to both your personal email and your Bangor University email once you have completed your Introduction with the college.

Click here for the Bangor University location map.

Click here for the Bangor University Campus Map.

Follow us on Instagram and be the first to hear the latest news and to see what the students get up to!

Call BU Campus Security at 01248 382 795 or for Emergency Police/Ambulance/Fire call at 999.

Click here for the Bangor University location map.

Click here for the Bangor University Campus Map.

Undeb Bangor, the Students’ Union, is the voice of students and the home of student life at Bangor. Located at the Pontio centre, the Students’ Union runs sports, clubs, societies and volunteering projects and is also the home of ‘Undeb Myfyrwyr Cymraeg Bangor’ (UMCB) Bangor’s Union for Welsh speaking students.

Find out more

Our team of sabbatical officers is available to provide assistance with the following:

• Support the student voice within the University
• Host student events & campaigns
• Organise Clubs & Societies (over 100 and is free to join)
• Invite students & host Student Council & Student Forums
• Recruit students to become Course Reps
• Join voluntary student-led projects.

Students Union – Undeb have 12 different networks that students can get involved with. Within these networks, students can get involved with campaigns, events and training opportunities. There are 15 Network Leader positions, these paid positions that run the networks as well as organising events and campaigns with the support of the Students’ Union- Undeb.

Bangor University International College 
Oswald’s Building,
Victoria Drive,
Bangor,
North Wales,
LL57 2EN
Tel No: +44 (0)1248 383785
Alternatively, Whatsapp our Student Experience Officer (Sara) at +44 (0)7442183673
Email: bicstudents@bangor.ac.uk

You can apply for National Insurance number online Apply for a National Insurance number: How to apply – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

Find out more about how Bangor University can support you with finding local work opportunities, completing a CV and application or advice on interviews.

https://www.bangor.ac.uk/careers-and-employability

You can also find a wide range of part-time vacancies online, via jobs boards or directly through an organisation’s vacancies pages. Make sure to refine your search by job type, area and contract type to get the best results.

• Find a job is the jobs database from Jobcentre Plus, the UK government department that provides support for people seeking employment. It has useful advanced search features to help refine your search and is a good source of local part-time jobs.
• Indeed 
• Totaljobs