International doctoral researchers
Welcome and settling in
Coming to do your doctorate in the UK is an exciting experience, with opportunities to broaden your academic, social and cultural horizons. The International Student Support office offers a high level of support to ensure that your time with us is as rewarding and problem-free as possible, and offer advice and guidance on a range of issues:
- Immigration and visa advice
- Support and advice on a range of issues related to living in the UK, working in the UK, banking and money, and advice for families
- Specific events for international students as part of your induction, as well as social events througout the year
English language and study skills support
As well as year-round English language courses, the Sussex Centre for Language Studies offers study skills support for international students. These currently include:
- Developing academic listening & speaking skills
- Developing academic style & vocabularly
- Referencing in academic writing
The Centre also offers one-to-one tutorials to help you with any aspect of your studies, though most researchers use them to ask for advice on their written work. You can request support throughout your doctorate.
Language Cafe
The University of Sussex Students' Union organise regular Language Cafe sessions, where you can meet other language speakers, practice your chosen language, and join in with the activities on offer.
Starting your doctorate
Visit the Research Student Administration Office website for essential information and guidance for your research studies at Sussex.
You can also explore support available through our Researcher Development Programme and watch the UK doctorate video 'Coming to Britain for a PhD' by Angel Productions on the 'Getting Started' section of our Researcher Development Online Study Direct site.
The video is a 30 minute programme produced by Angel Productions with Birkbeck, University of London, designed to help international students succeed in gaining a PhD in Britain.
Career development
The University Careers & Employability Centre offers dedicated support for international students, including advice about part-time work, CV writing and job applications, and information you need if you are hoping to work in the UK after graduating.
EURAXESS is a European Commission initiative aimed at supporting researchers mobility in the European Union.
EURAXESS UK have produced a comprehensive guide for international researchers moving to the UK that contains all of the general information you need to know about living and working in the UK.