Practicalities
From food to healthcare, here's where you can find all those important bits and bobs to help you with the transition.
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Shopping
Scotland is well served with a variety of shops that sell everything you need for your stay. The main food stores in the UK are:
The main clothes shops are usually in the city centre, and will suit a variety of budgets. There are also shopping centres in and around the main cities that can be reached by car or public transport:
For more information please see the Visit Scotland website.
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Bank accounts
We are not able to recommend specific banks to students but it is a good idea to use a bank with a branch near the campus or your address.
What you may need:
- Your passport.
- Visa or Biometric Residence Permit.
- Letter from the Programme Administrator confirming your student status.
- Proof of address
For more information please see advice for international students from the BBA.
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Safety
The UK is generally a safe place with low levels of crime. But whenever you travel to a new country, it is vital that you look after yourself.
We recommend that you visit the Police Scotland website for advice on how to keep safe or report a crime. You can find more information in the British Council safety booklet.
In an emergency, call 999 to contact the police, fire brigade or ambulance.
If you need to report a crime or an incident that is not an emergency, dial 101.
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Health
You should register with a local doctor (called a GP, or General Practitioner) as soon as possible. Do not wait until you are ill. GPs are based in local offices (called GP Surgeries) or Health Centres.
Find your local doctors in Scotland
To register, you will need:
- A letter from your college confirming that you are a full time student.
- Your passport.
- Immigration documents.
- Proof of address.
You should ask to be added to the list of National Health Service (NHS) patients. This means you will not have to pay a fee to visit the doctor.
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Transport
On Foot
Walking is normally easy and often the best way to get around and avoid traffic jams. Be aware that many of Scotland’s cities are hilly and in winter there can be ice and snow.
Public transport
Local bus services, express coaches, national rail services, ferries, Glasgow subway and Edinburgh trams together make up Scotland’s transport network. You can find information about all of these forms of transport on Traveline Scotland.
Cycling
Cycling is a cheap, healthy, efficient and environmentally-friendly mode of transport. You could either get a brand new bicycle from one of the many bike shops in Scotland, or get a second hand one from Gumtree or eBay.
Cycling Scotland is the national cycle training and engineering organisation for Scotland. Visit their website for events, news and services.
You might also be interested in:
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Entry requirements
Learn the specific entry criteria, including academic and English language requirements, you'll need to study at SRUC as an international student.
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How to apply
Find here all the information you need to apply to SRUC as an international student.
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Visas & immigration
Visa and immigration policies can seem a little daunting at first. But not to worry, we've got all the guidance you need to start your very own Scotland adventure!
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Fees & funding
Find out how much it will cost to study at SRUC and see what scholarships and funding opportunities we have available.
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Accommodation
SRUC has access to a range of accommodation options available for students, either on campus or in the local area.
Explore more across SRUC
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Research
Our researchers work locally and internationally to better understand and to transform the world around us.
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SAC Consulting
Providing independent, research-driven, industry-leading expertise, advice and solutions for agricultural, food and land-based businesses.
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Veterinary Services
Our leading experts provide support to clients in areas of animal disease, diagnosis and surveillance.
Explore more:
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Find and apply for your course
Explore our academic and training course catalogues, check out our virtual experience, request a prospectus, find out how to apply to study with us, learn about fees and funding opportunities, and more.
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Pathways to Study
Explore all the ways you can learn at SRUC. From entry-level to Master's degree and beyond, full or part time study, distance learning, apprenticeships, mature students and courses for schools. We're here to help you and your business thrive.
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