For young international students, getting an offer from a private school is only the first step in a long journey of studying abroad. Today, let‘s talk about what parents and students need to pay attention to after receiving the offer from a private school.
After going through the process of choosing a school, applying for an exam, and finally receiving the admission notice from a private school, many people may think that they are about to usher in a beautiful life of studying abroad and begin to show their talents. However, for young international students, getting an offer from a private school is only the first step in a long journey of studying abroad. Today, let's talk about what parents and students need to pay attention to after receiving the offer from a private school.
一、Academic preparation before entering school
Reading suggestions and lists: Many private schools will provide recommended reading materials or lists after admission. These books are usually closely related to the course content, which helps students to know the knowledge and topics to be studied in advance. Parents and students are advised to choose suitable books to read according to the book list, especially those classic literature, non-fiction works and academic books, which will help students improve their reading comprehension and critical thinking.
Vocabulary preparation: In order to better adapt to the new academic year, students should learn relevant academic vocabulary in advance according to the upcoming grade. You can get the required vocabulary by consulting the syllabus of the textbook or contacting the school, and gradually accumulate and master these vocabulary. You can try to make vocabulary cards and review them by memory, so that you will be more confident in class and can better participate in the discussion and understanding of the course content.
Exercise book brushing: after obtaining the teaching materials, students are advised to brush the exercise books according to the contents of the teaching materials. By completing the exercises, students can consolidate what they have learned, find their own weak links and improve them. You can make a study plan and set aside some time to practice every day to ensure that you master the basic knowledge before entering school. This can not only improve students' academic ability, but also help them adapt to the learning rhythm and requirements of private schools.
二、Pre-trip supplies preparation
Clothing: according to the climate characteristics of Britain, prepare suitable clothing. It is recommended to choose warm coats, rain gear and clothes suitable for different seasons. At the same time, considering the school dress code, prepare school uniforms or formal clothes.
Stationery: Prepare basic stationery, including pencils, pens, erasers, rulers, colored pens, etc. These stationery can help students take notes and homework in class.
Notebook computer: A notebook computer suitable for study is essential to ensure that its performance can meet the daily learning needs. It is recommended to install necessary software, such as office software and learning tools, in advance.
Toiletries: Prepare personal toiletries, such as toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, shower gel, etc. You can choose a brand that suits you according to your personal habits.
Bedding: according to the requirements of the school, prepare bedding, including sheets, quilts and pillows. Ensuring that these items are comfortable can help students get a good sleep in the new environment.
British-approved electrical equipment: make sure to bring electrical equipment that meets British standards, such as hair dryers and chargers. Remember to prepare adapters so that you can use these devices in the UK.
Personal travel documents: Make sure to bring all necessary travel documents, including passport, BRP (Biometric Information Residence Permit, eVisa is now available) and CAS (Confirmation of Admission Letter). These documents are very important for entry and registration.
Electronic dictionary: A good electronic dictionary can help students find words quickly and improve their language ability, especially when they first arrive in Britain.
Name card: prepare a name card to facilitate communication with new students and teachers in school or dormitory, and help everyone get to know each other faster.
Note: Stationery, laptops, toiletries and other items can also be purchased after arrival in the UK, and parents and students can make flexible arrangements according to actual needs.
三、Apply for a student visa
Short-term study visa: It is suitable for students over 16 years old, and the course duration should be between 6 and 11 months. The visa is mainly used to study English language courses, emphasizing that students will participate in specialized English studies, not just courses taught in English. When applying for this visa, you need to provide relevant certificates of the course and proof of funds to ensure the living expenses during your stay in the UK.
Student visa: If students have been studying in the UK for more than 6 months, or want to work during their study, even if they have studied for less than 6 months, they need to apply for a student visa. This visa allows students to work legally during their studies, helping them to better integrate into local life and gain some practical experience. When applying for a student visa, you need to provide CAS (Confirmation of Admission Letter), proof of funds, proof of English language ability and other relevant materials.
四、Necessary materials for applying for a visa
Study Acceptance Confirmation (CAS): After receiving the admission notice from the private school, the school will issue CAS to the students. This is an important document that proves that students have been admitted to the school and provides detailed information about the course. When applying for a visa, CAS is an indispensable material.
Financial proof: you need to provide proof that you have enough money to live in the UK and pay for the course. This usually includes bank deposit certificate, scholarship certificate or other financial support documents. The proof of funds should show that there is a record of funds for at least 28 days when applying for a visa.
Visa fee: whether you apply for a visa outside the UK or in China, the fee is 490. In addition, as part of the visa application, students also have to pay the Medical Surcharge, which costs 776 pounds a year. This fee allows students to enjoy the National Health Service (NHS) in the UK.
Physical examination certificate of tuberculosis: For students from some countries, a physical examination certificate of tuberculosis is required when applying for a visa. This usually requires examination in designated medical institutions and obtaining relevant health certificates.
Certificate of guardian's consent (under 18 years old): If the applicant is under 18 years old, it is necessary to provide a certificate of guardian's consent, which proves that the guardian agrees that the student will study in the UK and bear relevant responsibilities. This certificate can be a written document, which needs to include the guardian's signature and contact information.
Matters needing attention in applying for a visa:
Ensure that all documents are authentic and valid and translated into English as required (if necessary).
Prepare all materials in advance so that important documents will not be missed when applying.
Check the latest requirements of visa application to ensure that all conditions are met.
五、Choose a guardian/host family
For young international students, it is very important to choose a suitable guardian and host family if parents can't accompany them to the UK. According to the regulations of the British Visa Center, underage international students must provide the information of their guardians when applying for a student visa, otherwise they may face the risk of refusal.
In addition, according to the relevant regulations of the British Children's Act, it is a mandatory requirement that full-time international students under the age of 18 must have a legal local guardian in the UK. Most British schools require overseas students to appoint a guardian in the UK so that they can have "surrogate parents" to take care of them during study, holidays, travel and emergencies.
Choose a suitable guardian/guardianship institution.
1. Guardian's responsibilities: A qualified guardian or guardianship institution should not only be responsible for the daily life of children, but also provide academic support and guidance. Good guardians can effectively communicate the relationship between parents and schools and ensure that children can be properly taken care of in their studies and lives.
2. Provide quality host families: guardians should be able to recommend suitable host families to ensure that children live in a safe and comfortable environment. The choice of host family is very important for children's adaptation and growth.
3. Academic support: Qualified guardians can provide academic guidance for students, including:
How to choose GCSE and A Level courses;
What should I do if I need to change schools?
How to choose a university major;
How to apply for your favorite university;
Understand the value and participation of additional activities such as EPQ (Extended Project Qualification) or Duke of Edinburgh Award.
4. Emergency handling: The guardian should be able to provide support in emergencies, such as medical problems, mental health problems or other emergencies. They need to understand the relevant policies of the school and be able to communicate with parents and schools in time.
5. Choosing a guardianship company: When choosing a guardianship company, parents should consider the following points:
The reputation and reputation of the company;
The qualifications and experience of the guardian;
Whether the services provided are comprehensive;
Whether there are good communication channels and feedback mechanisms.
By carefully choosing suitable guardians and host families, parents can rest assured that their children can study in the UK and enjoy the life of studying abroad.