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Before you arrive

There are certain things you can do before you arrive to help support your studies.

We recommend you refer to the information below to plan effectively before you join your course.

Programme Information

If they have not already been in touch, it is a good idea to get in contact with the programme administrator before you arrive, you can find their contact details on the programme webpage. Your department will have a programme handbook which is a great place to find out more about what is in store for you, and who will be available to field any questions you might have when you start.

Key Contacts

Make sure you know the key people for your programme, including the course organiser and the programme administrator. The programme team and their roles should be clearly described in the programme handbook.

Programme Induction

You should be provided with information and instructions about how and when to arrive for the start of your course. An induction week typically takes place before learning starts, and is a handy opportunity to meet your programme team, tour the campus, introduce yourself to other students, and obtain useful information about your programme.

Accommodation and Living In London

Living in London is an incredible experience, with plenty to explore. However, it is vitally important that you organise your accommodation as early as possible, and that you are aware of the cost of living in the capital. There are many different types of accommodation to suit your preferences.

International Students

The International Student Support team can provide lots of advice and guidance before you travel to the UK to start your studies. We have a guide for what to prepare before you start your studies.

Advice from current students

Existing students are a good source of advice and information about what you can expect at Imperial. Contact your Academic Reps for more information.

Summer Schools

If coming to Imperial will be the first time you’ve studied at an English-medium academic institution, you might want to upgrade your academic communication skills before you begin. Imperial’s Centre for Academic English runs a 3-week, full-time course in September to help you prepare for your first term. The intensive course gives you practice in, and feedback on, many aspects of academic communication, including report writing and giving presentations. Taking the course also means that you will become an Imperial student earlier than your peers, giving you time to orient yourself to College life before the busy start of term.

Aspirations and Attributes

Attributes and Aspirations (AA) is an online short course that supports you to adapt to masters study at Imperial and then decide on, and plan for whatever you want your professional future to be. You’ll have a chance to develop key skills that will help with your master's study and that you’ll be able to use whether you choose to move to a PhD or to a job in industry. AA is designed specifically for Imperial College Postgraduate students and you will be enrolled automatically into the version of AA that has been created for your faculty – Engineering, Faculty of Natural Science or Medicine.

Events and activities when you arrive

In addition to your programme induction, there will be many events and activities within your faculty and across different campuses at Imperial. Keep checking the webpages for the Imperial College Union as they put on lots of great events throughout the year. It’s important to experience life outside of your studies and to make sure you have a well-earned mental and physical break. Getting involved in clubs, societies and projects is a great way to meet other students and try new and exciting activities.