✈️ Welcome to Your International Experience

👋 Hello from the International Team

Welcome to Cardiff and Vale College. We are delighted that you have chosen to study with us and we look forward to welcoming you to Cardiff.

Starting college in a new country is an exciting experience. You will have the opportunity to study new subjects, meet students from around the world and explore life in the United Kingdom. We understand that arriving in a new place can also feel a little overwhelming at first, and our International Team is here to support you every step of the way.

This website has been created to help you prepare for your arrival and settle into life at the College. You will find important information about enrolment, accommodation, living in Cardiff and the support available to you as an international student.

At Cardiff and Vale College, we are proud to welcome students from many different countries. Our staff are committed to supporting your learning, wellbeing and personal development so that you can succeed in your studies and enjoy your experience in the UK.

If you ever have questions or need assistance, the International Team will always be available to help.

We look forward to meeting you soon and welcoming you to our global student community at Cardiff and Vale College.

🗺️ Preparing for Your Journey

Moving to a new country is an exciting step. Careful preparation before you travel will help ensure your arrival in the UK is smooth and stress free.

✈️ Travel Arrangements

Before travelling, please make sure that:

🛂 Your visa or entry clearance (if required) has been approved

📨 You have shared your flight details with the International Team

🚐 You understand your airport transfer arrangements

🏡 Your accommodation has been confirmed

If you are unsure about any part of your travel plans, please contact the International Team before your departure 📩

 

📄 Documents to Bring

You must travel with the following original documents:

• 🛂 Passport

• 📄 Visa or entry clearance documentation

• 🎓 Offer letter and CAS (if applicable)

• 📞 Emergency contact details

• 🏡 Accommodation confirmation

Please keep these documents in your hand luggage 🎒, as you may need to show them at the airport ✈️ and during enrolment 📝.

🧳 What to Pack

The weather in the UK can be cool and changeable throughout the year 🌦️.

We recommend bringing:

🧥 Warm clothing and a waterproof coat


🔌 A UK plug adapter (Type G) for electrical devices


💊 Any prescribed medication you require


💷 Some local currency or an international debit card

🎓 Your First Week at College

Your 1st week at Cardiff and Vale College is designed to help you settle into your new environment and prepare for your studies.

During this week you will:

📝 Complete your enrolment and document checks

🪪 Receive your student ID card

💻 Set up your college IT and email account

👋 Meet your personal tutor and course teachers

📅 Receive your class timetable

You will also learn about:

📊 Attendance expectations

📚 Academic standards and independent study

📏 College behaviour guidelines

🗣️ Who to speak to if you need help

Our aim is to ensure you feel confident and fully prepared before your academic programme begins ✅

Your 1st week in Cardiff will also be an opportunity to become familiar with your new city and daily life in the UK 🇬🇧

Many students use this time to:

🤝 Meet other international students and make new friends

🏫 Explore the City Centre Campus

🚌 Learn how to travel around Cardiff

🏦 Open a UK bank account

📱 Get a UK SIM card for their phone

Cardiff is a welcoming and student-friendly city 🌆, and most places are easy to reach by bus 🚌, train 🚆 or on foot 🚶‍♂️

Our 🌍 International Team and 🧑‍🎓 Student Services Team will be available throughout your 1st week to answer questions and help you settle into life at Cardiff and Vale College 💙