There are a wide range of support and advice services available to students, many of which provide free support.
For a full list of university support services, from changing course to accommodation and counselling see the university support services page
An independent organisation which promotes and seeks to protect the interests of students from other countries studying in the UK. Provides very useful information on key immigration issues through their website and telephone advice line:
Information on UK immigration rules and regulations, as well as application forms for various visa extension categories, including students, work permits and various other immigration applications.
Asylum & Immigration Tribunal
The Asylum and Immigration Tribunal hears and decides appeals against decisions made by the Home Office in matters of asylum, immigration and nationality. Their website contains the information needed to pursue an appeal to the Tribunal.
Immigration solicitors
Immigration solicitors can usually help with a wide range of queries from marriage, appeals and invalid applications. You should make sure that you clearly understand the prices the solicitor will charge. To find a solicitor you can use the the Law Society
The English for International Students Unit (EISU) provides English language support to international students and visiting scholars at the University of Birmingham. They offer lunchtime classes and individual appointments.
Please visit their website for details about courses available, support offered and contact details.
Advice and Representation Centre (ARC)
Advisors at the ARC provide information, support and representation on academic, finance, housing and consumer issues.
Learning Support, Counselling and Guidance
The Learning Support, Counselling and Guidance teams are here to offer you practical and emotional support throughout your time at the University.
You can talk to staff, and use reference material and take-away literature to help you with your career planning.
Jobzone
Operate as a free job information service providing details of local vacancies.
UK Council for International student Affairs (UKCISA)
An independent organisation which promotes and seeks to protect the interests of students from other countries studying in the UK. The website provides information on international students and work, both during and after studying.
Website: www.ukcisa.org.uk
Information on working in the UK, including immigration rules and regulations and application forms.
Inland revenue
For information relating to Tax and National Insurance.
Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service (ACAS)
Provides up-to-date information and independent advice to solve employment problems.
Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB)
Can provide advice and guidance on employment-related problems.
If you are facing financial problems you should arrange to speak with an ISAS advisor.
Student Funding OfficeThe Student Funding Office can provide details of scholarships available to International students.
Advice and Representation Centre (ARC)
Advisors at the ARC provide information, support and representation on academic, finance, housing and consumer issues.
British Council
The British council website provides useful information on how to fund your studies.
Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB)
Can provide advice and guidance on debt problems and county court orders.
Educational Grants Advisory Service (EGAS)
The Educational Grants Advisory Service (EGAS) offers guidance and advice on funding for those studying in post-16 education in the UK.
For enquiries regarding University accommodation and finding private accommodation.
Advice and Representation Centre (ARC)
Advisors at the ARC provide information, support and representation on academic, finance, housing and consumer issues.
Birmingham City Council Housing Department
Birmingham council has a Private Tenancy Team who can help you with any housing problems that you have. They also have an Environmental Health Department, which deals with health and safety issues.
Shelter
This organisation provides free advice regarding any housing problems that you may have. You can visit them in person or see their website for detailed information on various housing issues. They also have a free advice line where you can get advice on housing issues.
Citizens Advice Bureau
This organisation provides free advice regarding any housing problems that you may have. You can visit them in person or see their website for detailed information on various housing issues.
Burglary Reduction Project (Selly Oak)
Free evaluation of the security of your home and advise on additional security measures that can be taken.You should get permission from your landlord or agent before having any work carried out.
Traveline
Coaches
National Express & Flightlink Coaches
Megabus
Trains
National Rail
Eurostar
Taxis
TAO Taxis (Birmingham black cabs)
Airport websites
