Life as a Student

You may find that there are quite a number of different rules, regulations, conditions and conventions here in the UK from those that you may be used to. If you have any concerns or questions, do not be afraid to ask.

Being at the University of Chester is a fantastic experience, with numerous personal and academic opportunities. There is always an amazing buzz around both campuses, and all students add to the close-knit community.
Lyndsay Jackson, Former Students' Union Vice-President

Driving

If you currently possess a valid driver's license issued to you from one of the countries in the European Economic Area (EEA), then you may continue to use it while you are in the UK. Otherwise, as long as you hold a current valid international license from your home country, you may drive for 12 months in UK. After this, you must obtain a UK license. License applications can be obtained from the Post Office.

National Health Service

If you are studying with us for a minimum of 3 months, then you would usually qualify for free health care. You should register with a local doctor (GP) as soon as possible after your arrival.

Religion

The UK is a multi-faith society in which you have a legal right to practice your faith. The University of Chester Chaplaincy has strong links with local Church community and faith groups and is happy to help, advise and support students of all faiths or none. A special multi-faith prayer room is available on both Chester and Warrington campuses. For Muslim students, there is a mosque located near the main Chester campus and in Warrington Town Centre. University of Chester Chaplaincy

Smoking

In the UK, smoking is not allowed on public transport or in public buildings.

Television

If you intend to buy or rent a television while you are in the UK, then you will also need to purchase a television license, which will cost you about £136 a year, and is available from the Post Office.

Travel

Chester railway station is a twenty-minute walk away from our Chester campus, and has links to all parts of the UK. London is about two and a half hours away, and Liverpool and Manchester forty minutes each. You may also make these journeys by bus, which is often a cheaper option. There is an excellent road system linking Chester with the North West of England, and local transport is good.

Warrington is located very close to the motorway network, and with two train stations in the town centre, there is easy access to the nearby cities of Manchester and Liverpool. The holiday resort of Blackpool and the beautiful Lake District National Park are just over an hour away.

Weather

The weather here in the North West is usually mild, but it can be unpredictable. In the summer, the temperature is usually between 18°C and 26°C, and can dip down to 5°C to 8°C during the day, and 0°C during the night, in the winter. The weather can change from day-to-day from being sunny and clear to being cloudy, windy or wet, so it is best to bring with you layers of light clothing, good shoes or boots, something warm and definitely something waterproof!
Current weather forecast for Chester