NOTE: This is written for international students, but some steps might help domestic students as well!

SIM Importance

In today's digital era, having a phone and a SIM card is essential for almost everything.

• Acquiring a SIM: You can bring a SIM from your home country or purchase one at Belfast International Airport or Belfast City Airport, with costs varying based on carrier and services chosen.
• Free SIM Card: Alternatively, you can obtain a free SIM card from the Student Information Point on the first floor of One Elmwood Student Centre and Students’ Union.
• City Centre Options: In the city centre, various service providers like Lyca and Lebara offer SIM cards, sometimes for free depending on ongoing promotions. You can find Lyca stores using this link: Lyca Store Locator. Check e-sim options also if your mobile supports.
• Recommendation: Initially, opt for the easiest available option and try it for a month. Later, if needed, you can switch to other services while retaining the same number.

Find out what every international student should know before moving to NI

QSIS Account

All students must complete ONLINE registration each academic year through the Qsis Registration Portal. Portal - opening dates are announced in advance annually.

You will receive an email about this 2-3 weeks before your course starts. Upon receiving a welcome email, you'll obtain your student number and password, along with portal access dates.

Log in to QSIS using provided credentials: student number as username and the email-listed password. It's advisable to use this password throughout registration, with an option to change it later via "Change Password" in your Queen’s Online account.

Take a tour of the Queen's campus!

International students can proceed with online registration until the immigration document check stage. A hold is placed until documents are reviewed by the Immigration Support Service Compliance Team.

Regularly check the Registration Portal to monitor document check progress and registration eligibility. 

Immigration Document Check

After your visa has been granted and you have arrived in the UK to begin your studies at Queen’s University Belfast, you are required to complete an Immigration Document Check (IDC) as part of the enrolment and registration process.

During this check, you will upload images of your current immigration documents, which will be reviewed by the Immigration Support Service (ISS). Once your documents are approved, you can complete the remaining enrolment steps with Student Registry Services.

As part of this process, you will need to provide evidence of your immigration status. For student visa holders, this includes an eVisa, which is an online record of your immigration status and any conditions for entering or staying in the UK.

Stuck? Ask one of our student guides for help

For guidance on eVisa, see:

• QUB ISS eVisa page: https://www.qub.ac.uk/sites/iss/eVisas/
• UKVI eVisa page - Access and use your online immigration status: https://www.gov.uk/evisa
• UKVI eVisa page - Report an error with your eVisa: https://www.gov.uk/evisa/report-error-evisa
• UKVI eVisa page - eVisa help and support: https://ukimmigration-support-webchat.homeoffice.gov.uk/evisa

For details on the documents you need to upload to QSIS for your Immigration Document Check, visit: https://www.qub.ac.uk/sites/iss/WhileYoureHere/IDC/

Matriculation - Document Verification & Student ID Collection

• Take your educational documents, passport, and visa documents (all originals) to the Students’ Union admission team. Book an appointment.
• Verify your documents with the admission team for instant processing.
• Have your instant photo taken by the team.
• Receive your printed Student ID immediately.
• Discuss with the team to ensure completion of any pending tasks in the QSIS portal.
• Update your term and home address in the QSIS portal for bank account address proof.

Find out more about the Queen's Students' Union

Bank Account

If you've already opened a UK or international account, that's great. If you haven't already, it's crucial and straightforward to open a bank account.

Popular student-friendly options include HSBC (best and most of us use this), Ulster Bank, Santander, and Barclays. Although Lloyds is anticipated in NI, it's not yet available. Opening can be done online or at a bank physically.

To open an account with these banks, you'll need a letter confirming your student status and address details. You can request this letter from Student Registry services.

Alternatively, consider instant bank accounts with online banks like Revolut or Monzo. Download the app, provide basic details, and start banking. 

Set up Microsoft and Canvas

Microsoft Ecosystem (Outlook, Teams, etc.)

You can set up your Microsoft account in your home country or upon arrival. Look for an email titled “Welcome to Queen’s – Important Registration Information” for instructions. Follow the provided guidelines to set up your Outlook email and Teams account.

Canvas - Learning Management System

Upon receiving access information in the "Welcome to Queen’s" email, log into Canvas. Canvas is a web-based learning management system for students. You can also download the Canvas app for easy access to course materials and communication tools.

Remember to get set up on Outlook and Teams

Register with a GP (General Practitioner)

Request a letter from the Student Registry Service confirming your status as a student at Queen's University. This letter is similar to the bank letter and may be required for various purposes.

Obtain a GP registration form from the Student Information Point. Fill out the form completely (Paper pen form). Submit the Student Registry letter and GP registration form for verification at the nearest GP office where you intend to register.

Many students register with the University Health Centre, located near the Students’ Union.

Find out more about the University Health Centre

Once registered, you can access healthcare services immediately, even before receiving your GP card. The GP card may take 1-2 months to be delivered. In the meantime, ensure you have the GP's contact information readily available.

Apply for NI Number

• Visit the UK government website to learn about the NI number application process.
• You may need to wait until you have arrived in the UK to apply for your NI number.
• Gather necessary documents such as your passport and visa.
• Complete the online application form for an NI number.
• Follow any additional instructions provided during the application process.
• Once your application is processed, you'll receive your NI number in the mail.

Set up QWork

Once you have NI number (Temporary NI number via QWork is also fine), consider registering on QWork if you're interested in part-time work opportunities.

Jobs at Queen's University are posted on this platform, allowing you to apply. You can register using your personal email or Queen's email address.

Become a student blogger and get paid via QWork!

Set up MyFuture

Sign up for MyFuture using your Queen's email address. MyFuture is a comprehensive platform for job applications, internships, part-time work, and volunteering opportunities.

Stay updated on events happening within the Students' Union, Graduate School, and across the entire university. Download a simplicity app which has MyFuture integrated with it.

By registering on QWork and signing up for MyFuture, you'll gain access to a wide range of employment and networking opportunities tailored to students at Queen's University.

After completing your setup, it's time to attend Queen's Pre-Semester Welcome Programme and Induction sessions organised by your School. These sessions will provide valuable information and insights to help you navigate your academic journey at Queen's.

Check out the latest job opportunities on MyFuture

Additionally, keep an eye out for emails offering opportunities to become a student ambassador. Being a global student ambassador can be a rewarding experience, allowing you to represent your university and engage with fellow students from around the world. Don't miss out on this chance to get involved and make a positive impact within the Queen's community.

Important and useful links

https://www.qub.ac.uk/sites/my-queens/enrolment-and-registration/#letters-1742037-2

https://www.qub.ac.uk/directorates/sgc/srecords

Find out more

Queen's Welcome and Orientation

Study MSc Business Analytics at Queen's

India: Admissions Guide

Madhurya Jagadeesh MSc Business Analytics | Postgraduate Student | India I am a dedicated Business and Data Analyst with a strong academic foundation and a history in various analytical roles. My educational journey includes a Master of Science in Business Analytics from Queen's University Belfast and a Bachelor of Engineering in Information Science & Engineering.