We're a home away from home
Start your Portsmouth journey and settle into UK life
However far you have to travel to Portsmouth, we're here to make your arrival in the UK – and your first weeks as a student with us – as enjoyable and stress-free as possible.
From advice and guidance on the things you should do before you arrive, to what to expect when you get here, we're here to help.
Before you arrive
Student visas
Discover how to get a Student Visa via the new UKVI Student Route, including what you need to be eligible, the documents you need, how much it costs and how to apply.
Insurance for international students
If you're new to the UK, you'll probably have a few questions about insurance. Find out what types of insurance you need.
What to pack and preparing to travel
From the documents you'll need to bring, to your personal belongings, find out what you'll need to bring with you to university.
How to get here
Get directions from London Heathrow, Gatwick and other airports to the University of Portsmouth. We offer airport pickup services for international students.
Finding accommodation
Read more about the variety of halls of residence and private rented accommodation available to you at various prices in the city. Get extensive housing support from our Student Housing team.
What to do after you arrive
Arrival checklist
Tick all the boxes to make sure you've done all you need to do after you arrive
Your first weeks
Find out what could lie ahead here. Learn more about the arrival programme, what you need to do, and what you might like to explore.
International Orientation January 2023
Discover the activities and events taking place to help you settle into life in the UK.
Planning your finances
Discover how best to plan your finances while studying at the University of Portsmouth, including advice on your budget for the study year.
Healthcare
Find out how you can use the UK's free NHS services as an international student here, or how to get private healthcare.
Opening a bank account
Find out how to set up a bank account in the UK as an international student, and why it's a good idea to have one.
Welcome New International Students - University of Portsmouth
The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Graham Galbraith, welcomes new international students to the University of Portsmouth for 2021/22, with an outline of what to expect for the months ahead.