If you're new to the UK, we’ve got you covered - this is your hub for international student support at Hallam Students' Union. 


Resource guides

Starting life in a new country comes with a lot to take in - from visas and tuition to working while you study. These guides are here to help you navigate every step of the journey. Whether you're figuring out how to legally work in the UK, manage your finances, or settle into student life, you'll find clear, practical advice to support you.

Arriving in the UK

From airport pick-up to international orientation – get practical advice to help you prepare for your journey and settle in smoothly when you arrive.

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Immigration, Visas and eVisa

Understand the key steps around your visa, eVisa activation, and staying compliant with UK immigration rules.

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Funding and Tuition

Find out about tuition payments and what financial support might be available to you as an international student.

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Studying and working in the UK

Important information for international students - know your work rights, visa rules, tax obligations, and post-graduation options.

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Healthcare in the UK

Discover how to register with a doctor, use the NHS, and what healthcare support you can access during your time in the UK

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Support and Help

Whether it’s academic, wellbeing, or general life advice, explore the support services available to help you thrive at Hallam.

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Living in Sheffield

Sheffield is a friendly, student-focused city and your new home away from home. Here's what you need to know to feel comfortable and confident navigating life here.


Housing and accommodation

Starting life in a new country is exciting, but sorting out housing can be one of the trickier parts. If you’re not sure where to begin, our Student Housing Survival Guide is a great place to start. It’s packed with advice from Hallam students who’ve been through it themselves.

Whether you’re living in university halls or renting privately, this section will point you to the right support and help you understand your rights.

Finding accommodation

Not sure where to begin? Sheffield Hallam offers a wide range of university-managed accommodation, along with support if you’re exploring private rentals.

Each option has its own benefits and challenges, so it's worth looking into what suits your lifestyle, preferences, and budget.

Whether you're after a sociable halls experience or a quieter private flat, there’s something to fit your needs.

View accommodation options

Contracts and housing rights

Renting in the UK can be quite different from other countries, so it’s important to understand the basics before you sign anything. What are your responsibilities as a tenant? What’s your landlord expected to do? What happens if something goes wrong?

You’ll find clear guidance on contracts, deposits, repairs, and your legal rights as a tenant.

Read our housing support page

Avoiding scams

Unfortunately, housing scams (especially online) can target international students. If someone asks you to pay before seeing a property or signing a proper contract, that’s a warning sign.

We’ve created a handy list of tips to help you avoid scams and stay safe while searching for accommodation.

Read our top tips

Support with housing

Already moved in and facing problems? Whether it’s repairs that aren’t being done, housemate issues, or questions about your rent, we’re here to help.

We support you with any housing issue, big or small. You don’t need to deal with it alone.

Our Student Advice Centre can check your contract with you and explain anything that’s unclear, confidential and free of charge.

Get in touch

Places to explore

Sheffield is a city full of excitement and opportunities to explore, from its vibrant music scene to its diverse food, cultural spots, and faith communities.

Whether you're seeking a lively night out, a quiet café to study, or events to meet new people, Sheffield has it all. Check out some of the best places and events to make the most of your time here!

 

A student wearing a black jacket poses in front of a colourful blue and purple backdrop.

Societies

Meet people, explore your interests, and feel at home at Hallam.

Joining a society is a great way to make friends, try new things, and stay connected to your culture. From dancing and gaming to cultural celebrations, there’s something for everyone.

Why join a society?

  • Make friends with similar interests
  • Discover new hobbies and cultures
  • Stay connected to your roots
  • Boost your CV through leadership and volunteering

Don't see a society for your background or interest? You can start your own! The SU is here to support you every step of the way.

View social societies

View academic societies


Employment and volunteering

Looking to build your skills, earn some extra money, or give back to the community? You might be looking to earn some extra money, gain experience through volunteering, or start building your future career, whatever your goal, there's plenty of support available.

The Careers and Employability Service at Hallam can help you find opportunities, build your confidence, and make the most of your time in Sheffield.

Employability and skills

Get support to boost your confidence and prepare for your career with our range of employability tools and programmes.

Access free training courses, CV support, mock interviews, and online resources to help you develop your skills, build experience, and feel career-ready.

Whether you're starting from scratch or building on what you already know, there’s something for every stage.

Find out more

Volunteering opportunities

Volunteering is a great way to meet people, build skills, and gain experience for your CV. All students, including short-term students, can get involved with local charities and community groups. It's also a great way to practise English and feel more connected.

If you're unsure about your eligibility to volunteer, you can book an appointment with an International Experience Adviser for guidance.

View all opportunities

Part-time and campus jobs

Need a job that fits around your studies? There are lots of flexible part-time roles available both on campus and across Sheffield. Handshake is regularly updated with campus jobs, and Hallam's Careers and Employability Service can help you search, apply, and prepare for interviews.

These jobs are a great way to earn money and build work experience while you study.

Find out more

International students seeking work

If you are an international student who is returning home to find work, you may wish to look at the ‘gradlink’ series of websites.

Tailored to different countries these offer case studies, career profiles, insights into the labour markets, and job vacancies for international students currently studying in the UK.

The International Experience Team offers visa support during your studies, and for post-study work routes.

Find out more