The Year Abroad (Hong Kong)

The Year Abroad(Hong Kong)

Contents

Money matters 8University of Kent tuition feesHong Kong tuition feesBanking abroadLiving costs and immediate expensesBudgetingDebit and credit cardsTraveller’s chequesStudent loansEmergency short-term loansAccess to Learning FundBenefit entitlements

Sport and healthcare 10University facilitiesSports facilities on campusHealth regulations and vaccinationsInsuranceDental careMedicationDeclaration of illnesses, disabilities or allergiesCounselling and mental illness

Working in Hong Kong 11

Life in Hong Kong 12Personal safetyLegal mattersThe British Consulate

Travel within Hong Kong 13Hotels

Travelling to other countries 14

Life back home 15Keeping in touch with the University of KentRegistering to vote as an overseas student

Preparing to return home 16Clearing debtsRegistering for classes at the University of KentAccommodation at the University of KentTranscripts

Other resources 17

FAQs 18

Year Abroad regulations 19

Contacts 20

Finally Inside back cover

Checklist 1

Introduction 1

Your university in Hong Kong 2The University of Hong Kong (HKU)City University of Hong KongAcademic expectationsThe application process

Pre-departure information 3Student visasEssential documentsMaking contact with fellow studentsBooking flightsAccommodationLuggageCustomsBefore you goWhat to pack

Careers 4The Careers Advisory Service websiteOther resources

Arriving in Hong Kong 5What to expectWhat to do when you arrive in Hong KongOrientation

Academic culture 6The academic yearTeaching styleContact hoursUniversity staffChoosing courses and course registrationChoosing your modulesLanguage coursesAssessmentTranscript of recordsWriting stylePlagiarismLibrariesSocial lifeTravel during the academic yearSettling inBeing understoodSocial customs and behaviourFestivalsDaily life in Hong KongSome hints

1

Studying abroad is an excitingopportunity for students at theUniversity of Kent. Not only does itexpand your academic horizons andexpose you to other perspectives ofacademic thought, it also provides youwith a wonderful cultural experienceto live and study in another country.

This guide is intended to supplement any materialthat you may already have received, and shouldprovide you with useful information as you preparefor your academic year in the Hong Kong. Youshould supplement this guide with a carefulreading of any information you may receive fromyour Hong Kong university/college and with someindependent research of your own.

Please read this booklet in its entirety before youleave for Hong Kong. If, after reading it, you stillhave further questions, please do not hesitate tocontact the relevant staff (see our Contactssection on p20) who will do their best to answeryour questions in a timely manner. We would alsowelcome suggestions of topics that you feelshould be covered, or which you think should beexpanded in this booklet.

Lastly, we wish you the best of luck with your yearin Hong Kong and encourage you to make themost of all of the opportunities that will come yourway. Remember that you are also ambassadors forthe University of Kent, so do us proud!

Best wishes from theInternational Office, University of Kent

The Year Abroad (Hong Kong)Introduction

Reminder

Please email Hazel Lander (Welfare and

Exchanges Officer), at [email protected]

as soon as you arrive inHong Kong, to

provide her with your newphone number,

address and contact information, together

with a confirmation of theclasses you will

be taking during your year. You must do

this within a week of arriving in Hong Kong.

For further details, see page 20.

Introduction

Check listEssential things to do before you leave campus• Complete accommodation and visa applications (p20).• Contact your school co-ordinator at Kent and the academic adviser at your university in HongKong

• Make contact with other students going to, or returning from, your destination (p3).• Read this guide carefully! It contains a great deal of important information that will help you toprepare for your year in Hong Kong.

Essential things to do before you depart for your placement• Ensure that you have a valid passport and visa (p3).• Obtain international health insurance (p10).• Arrange travel insurance (p10).• Obtain a copy of your birth certificate, if required (p3).• Obtain lots of passport photos (p3).• Make your travel arrangements in good time (p3).• Inform your university in Hong Kong of your arrival date and flight particulars.• Make sure that you know where to go on arrival for your accommodation.• Make contact with the appropriate people at your university in Hong Kong (p20).• Make all your necessary financial arrangements (p8).• Pack this Year Abroad guide! You will need it during your stay.

Essential things to do when you arrive in Hong Kong• Go to the International Office or equivalent at your university in Hong Kong to let them know ofyour arrival. (p5).

• See the academic adviser at your university in Hong Kong for advice on your study options(p5).• Keep in touch! (p20)

City University, Hong KongThe College of Business will accept onlinenominations in March. We will send a nominationmessage to you individually in early March 2010and please fill in the personal information of yournominated students online. Afterwards, thenominees will receive login ID, password andinstructions to complete the application online.After submitting the online application, you mustmail the original visa application and residenceapplication with all required documents to themon/before 12 May 2010. The application procedurewill be explained in details by email but studentsare welcome to contact Hazel Lander if they haveany problems with their applications.

City University will issue the letter of acceptance toyou after you have submitted the online applicationform and submit all relevant documents by theapplication deadline of 12 May 2010.

2

Kent currently operates exchanges withThe University of Hong Kong and CityUniversity of Hong Kong

The University of Hong Kong (HKU)The University of Hong Kong (commonly known as‘HKU’ in the local community) is publicly-fundedand the oldest university in Hong Kong.Established in 1911, it is highly regarded, not onlyin Hong Kong, but across Asia and the rest of theworld. It was rated as the 26th top university in theworld in 2008 (18th in 2007 and 33rd in 2006) byThe Times Higher Education Supplement. As acomprehensive university, there are a total of tenfaculties, more than 22,000 students and over1,000 full-time academic staff members. TheDepartment of Politics and Public Administration(www.hku.hk/ppaweb) is in the Faculty of SocialSciences.

City University of Hong KongCity University of Hong Kong is committed toproviding quality higher education to its students.

The educational philosophy of the Universityemphasizes whole person development so thatstudents will receive ample opportunities tonurture both the “breadth” (analytical andproblem-solving skills, knowledge of the world)and “depth” (subject knowledge and professionalskills) of their minds. The University has achievedphenomenal growth since its establishment in1984. To date, it has a student population of26,045 enrolled in over 145 programmes at theassociate degree, undergraduate andpostgraduate levels.

Academic expectationsThe programmes on offer at your host university inHong Kong will be of a high academic standardand fairly demanding. The principal medium ofinstruction is English. You will have easy access toprofessors and support staff for any academichelp that you may need. Your modules willtranslate into credits towards your Kent degree.

The application process

The University of Hong KongPolitic students will also be interviewed by Dr Leein order to determine that they are suitablecandidates for the programme. Specifically,students must be deemed to be serious abouttheir studies, and able to adapt to a differentculture in a place a very long way from home.

Students should also note that there are only twoplaces available, so if more students apply thancan be accommodated, students will be selectedbased on their academic performance and theirinterview.

Kent will nominate students to HKU by March andHazel Lander of International Office will assist youin completing your nomination forms. After that youwill receive an email from HKU, asking you to fillout an online application form and to send HKUsupporting documents, including your academictranscripts.

Your University in Hong Kong

The Year Abroad (Hong Kong)Your university in Hong Kong

Resources

• This Year Abroad guide– read it

carefully and take it withyou

• School co-ordinator(s)– the

academic(s) responsiblefor your

exchange (see p20), anddiscuss

your application with them.

Be prepared• Ask yourself what you hope to get out of yourtime away.

• As soon as possible, obtain the necessarydocuments to prepare your application.

• Go to any briefing sessions that may bearranged for you by the International Office oryour School.

3

Student visasInternational students who do not have the right ofabode in Hong Kong and wish to enter Hong Kongfor education must obtain a student visa beforecoming to Hong Kong. For details, please refer tothe ‘Immigration Policy on Education’ issued by theHon Kong immigration Department atwww.immd.gov.hk/ehtml/hkvisas_study.htm Theprocess usually takes four to six weeks. It may takelonger if the required supporting documents areincomplete.

The Study Visa is only good for entering HongKong. You have to apply separately for visa toenter Mainland China, which you could do so afteryour arrival in Hong Kong. For further information,please visit www.ctshk.com/english/useful/chinesevisa.htm You have to consult theembassy/consulate of the other countries if travelvisa is required.

If the visa can not be approved in time for yourarrival, you will need to enter Hong Kong as visitorfirst. Then get the visa and change your status tostudent after arrival.

Which documents should be included with the visaapplication form?• Host institution application form (online submit)• Immigration Department – Visa/Entry Permitapplication form

• Application for student residence• Course selection form• Original transcript or grades• Photocopy of passport• Evidence of financial standing• Essay• Two passport-sized photos

Visa – The University of Hong KongPaperwork relevant to your visa application mustbe completed before your arrival in Hong Kong.Click on ‘Campus Life’ and then ‘Visa Matters’ atthe website of UHK’s Centre of Development &Resources for Students (CEDARS) athttp://cedars.hku.hk.

Visa – City University Hong KongCityU may apply for the study visa on your behalfin Hong Kong. The approved visa will be sent toyou by courier before your departure for HongKong. If you want CityU to apply for the visa onyour behalf, you should submit the completedRequest for Visa Sponsorship & StudentUndertaking Form together with your applicationfor exchange. CityU can only accept payment bycredit card or bank draft.

Only the original visa application forms areaccepted. The fax copy of your passport is usuallynot clear enough to identify your information andphoto. Thus you are required send all the forms byPOST. The International Office can do this for you.

Essential documentsPlease ensure that you have the followingdocuments:• Passport – Your passport must be valid at leastfor the duration of your stay abroad.

• Visa – Paperwork relevant to your visaapplication must be completed before yourarrival in Hong Kong. Birth Certificate – Makesure you have obtained a copy of your birthcertificate and take extra copies with you whenyou go to Hong Kong.

• Photocopies – Take copies of all the documentslisted above as well as the original documents(where possible).

• International health insurance – This is veryimportant! See the insurance section on p10for further details.

• International Student Identity Card (ISIC) –This card costs £9 from STA Travel (you willneed a passport photo for your application).For details, see www.statravel.co.uk/cps/rde/xchg/uk_division_web_live/hs.xsl/ISIC-card.htm

• Lots of passport photos.

Making contact with fellow studentsIt is a good idea to make contact with otherstudents who will be going to Hong Kong – youmay choose to travel together. Hazel Lander willarrange this, if you let her know in good time .

Booking flightsIt is your responsibility to make your own travelarrangements to travel to Hong Kong. Consider thepossibility of travelling with other Kent students, asthis can often make the process of arriving inHong Kong much less daunting. Makearrangements to do so early on – don’t leave ituntil the others have already booked their tickets.

STA Travel is a travel agency that specialises instudent travel and has a branch in Canterbury (Forcontact details, see p20).

Please check with your airline for luggagerestrictions and arrival/departure regulations.

AccommodationYour university in Hong Kong will normally offer oncampus accommodation. This will usually be ashared room. Application details will be providedwhen your receive confirmation of your successfulapplication to the year abroad in Hong Kong.

It is sometimes a requirement of living in universityaccommodation that you must purchase a mealplan. Meal plans usually offer flexible catering inthat you can often choose to eat your meals inyour halls of residence or in any of the campuscafés or restaurants. Food is usually of a goodstandard, with plenty of choice for vegetarians.The minimum number of meals that must bepurchased will vary between universities.

You may also arrange private accommodationwithin Hong Kong.

LuggageBe practical and ruthless when you plan what totake with you, remembering that cheap items arenot worth breaking your back for and are muchbetter bought when you get there. If you still needto have belongings sent over, this can be donethrough an International Parcel Service or anairline’s freight service. These services are best fortransporting books and other heavy but durableitems (not valuables/breakables). Pack all of yourbelongings very carefully.

PostYou can use either of the following companies totransport your items:

Parcelforcewww.parcelforce.comT: 08708 501150

Fedexhttp://fedex.com/gb/T: 0845 6070809

Unaccompanied baggageThis can be arranged with any air company, but itis expensive. To obtain a quote from BritishAirways, visit www.baworldcargo.com/products orphone 08457 222 777 and follow ‘option 1’.

CustomsFind out useful information about Customsregulations at www.hmce.gov.uk.

Before you goBefore leaving Canterbury, please make sure thatyour academic advisor and Hazel Lander, in theInternational Office have your correct contactdetails. We may need to pass on urgentinformation to you during the summer vacation.

The International Office and your School advisorcan also provide you with additional informationabout your host university in Hong Kong.

What to pack• Bring along a good bilingual dictionary• You will be able to find most types of food inHong Kong (although halal and Kosher food isnot yet available on campus). In case your flightarrives late, or you have difficulty locating acatering outlet, pack some light snacks in yourhand luggage – as long as they do not violatecustoms restrictions.

• Electrical equipment will need to be 220volts,50Hz, and of a three-pin triangle plug, or you’llneed a converter.

• Computer facilities are available on campus,although you may wish to bring a laptop.Accessories are widely available in Hong Kong.Make sure you have adequate insurance.

• Hong Kong uses the GSM mobile phonenetwork. Many packages are available. Youcould also purchase a roaming pre-paid SIMcard.

• You may wish to bring personal sportsequipment if you have any item you can’t dowithout.

Pre-departure information

The Year Abroad (Hong Kong)Pre-departure information

4

Whatever your degree subject, it willbe enriched by the experience ofliving, studying and/or working inanother country. This experience willnot only develop your languageabilities and cultural awareness butwill also develop more general skills(such as acting on your own initiative,adaptability and independence) thatwill help to enhance your careerprospects. Before you leave Kent foryour year abroad, do make use of theadvice and information that theCareers Advisory Service can provide.

Please note the following points before you leaveKent because they will help you to get the mostout of your year abroad:• Employers want more from graduates thanlanguage skills alone – it is what you can dothrough the language that is important.

• Early preparation is vital. Now is the time to startthinking about what you want to do after yougraduate – not the beginning of your very busyfinal year. Many popular employers will haveclosing dates during the autumn term: some(such as solicitors’ firms) even before the startof your final year. Don’t miss the boat!

• Use your time abroad to find out more aboutcareer opportunities in that country. (See below)

If you hope to return to your host country after yougraduate to work or study, you should use the yearto find out as much as possible about theopportunities there. Don’t expect to find all theinformation you need about careers in Hong Kongat the Careers Service here at Kent. We do havesome information on opportunities abroad, but youwill be able to find out much more while you are onthe spot.

The Careers Advisory Service websiteThe Careers Advisory Service web pages(www.kent.ac.uk/careers) have information oncareer choices, making applications and links to alarge number of sites for graduate employers andprofessional bodies. In addition, the ‘What Can IDo With My Degree?’ section will tell you what pastKent graduates in your subject have gone on todo. A good starting point for finding about usefulcareers and study sites in other countries is theProspects website:www.prospects.ac.uk/links/Abroad

Other resources

PublicationsThe Careers File outlines the various facilities thatthe Careers Service can offer you. It can bepicked up at the Careers Service in Kent.

Your Degree – What Next? is a general bookletthat is supplemented by ‘Options’ sheets –subject-specific information sheets covering 45subjects including modern languages, law,business, anthropology, history, economics, andcomputer science. These are also available on theweb at www.prospects.ac.uk/links/UseSubj.

Other Careers information booklets, which areavailable to take away, include: Using Languages,Postgraduate Study and Research, Working inEurope – First Steps, Working Abroad, MakingApplications and Going for Interviews.

Occupational profilesThese profiles cover over 600 career areas andprovide independent information written by careersspecialists in universities across the UK. Eachprofile gives a job description, lists typical workactivities, outlines entry and training requirementsand gives information on vacancy sources,employers and career development. The webversion also includes case studies of graduatesworking in each career area. Copies of the profilesare available in the Careers Information Room orcan be downloaded from the Prospects website:www.prospects.ac.uk/links/Occupations

Prospects plannerThis computer-assisted careers guidance systemcan help you plan your future career, assess thefactors that are important to you in deciding on acareer and find out about a range of differentcareers and how to get into them. Go towww.prospects.ac.uk/links/Pplanner

Careers

The Year Abroad (Hong Kong)Careers

5

Your year abroad will be anunforgettable experience, which willbe made even more fulfilling if youprepare well before you leave. Themore you put into your year abroadthe more you are likely to get out of it

What to expectOn arrival you will need to learn new skills and tobe ready to adapt to the culture of Hong Kong, aswell as the city of Hong Kong. Bureaucraticprocedures will be different and you will beexpected to find information and organise thingsfor yourself. Don’t expect administrativeprocedures and attitudes to be the same as thoseat Kent!

What to do when you arrive in Hong KongThe first few weeks at a host institution can comeas a culture shock. In terms of area, your hostuniversity in Hong Kong is slightly smaller thanKent, and the programmes of study involve morecontact time with lecturers and tutors than youhave had so far at Kent.

Make sure that the International Office orequivalent of your host university know of yourarrival. They will help you get settled on theOrientation programme. If you have any problemsat all, they will be your first port of call. They willliaise closely with both Hazel Lander([email protected]) and your academic advisorat Kent, in the event that any serious concernsarise.

If you have problems during the year, it is vitallyimportant that you make your academic adviser inHong Kong, and at Kent, aware of this.

You are strongly advised to attend the university’sorientation programme in Hong Kong.

OrientationYour university in Hong Kong will run an orientationprogramme to help you organise your registration,housing, timetables and local health cover. It isvery important that you arrive in good time for theinduction, which normally takes place towards theend of August. For further information pleasecheck the web-site of your host university.

Arriving in Hong Kong

The Year Abroad (Hong Kong)Arriving in Hong Kong

6

Remember: Your year abroad countsas part of your degree!

Your year abroad is an integral and compulsorypart of your degree programme and, as such, youare expected to complete the work and attendlectures and seminars, as you are expected to doat Kent. Your exam and coursework marks will beconverted by your department into a Year Abroadgrade, which will form part of your degree mark atthe end of the final year.

You will be studying an agreed programme ofcourses alongside local students and sitting the

same examinations.

The academic yearThe approximate dates for study in Hong Kong,are:

1st SemesterFirst day of teaching 1 September 2010Reading/field trip week** 12 October 2010Last day of teaching** 28 November 2010Revision period** 30 November 2010Assessment period** 7-19 December 2010

2nd SemesterFirst day of teaching 11 January 2011Classes suspension periodfor the lunar new year 13-19 February 2011Reading/field trip week** 1-6 March 2011Last day of teaching** 24 April 2011Revision period** 26 April – 1 May 2011Assessment period** 3-22 May 2011

Teaching styleAs at Kent, teaching is based on lectures andtutorials. The staff-student ratio at your hostuniversity is very good, and you will get lots ofcontact time with your lecturers and tutors.

It is mandatory for all students to attend tutorialsand the university may report your non-attendanceto us here at Kent. You must take this seriously,and speak to your tutors if there are going to beany problems.

Contact hoursYou can expect 12 contact hours per week andwill also be expected to undertake private study,as well as some group work.

University staffThe staff members at your host university are veryapproachable. You will have an academic advisorand personal tutor, or equivalent to help you withall of your academic needs. You will also be ableto contact your academic advisor at Kent, keepingthem up to date with your progress, anddiscussing any issues regarding the direction ofyour course and modules.

Choosing courses and course registration

The University of Hong KongAkin to the requirements at Kent, you are requiredto register at HKU for courses worth 48 credits, ofwhich not less than 36 credits (or 75%) must befrom discipline-based courses. You are given roomto choose up to 12 credits of Chinese languagecourses (as discussed below). It is essential thatyou complete the process and register for thecorrect courses. Failure to do this may mean thatHKU cannot or will not register you for exams orpublish your exam/coursework results.

CityU Hong KongYou are required to make your study plan andsubmit via the online application system before theapplication deadline. CityU administrators will pre-register the courses for you. For courses which areweb-enabled, you can add or drop classes onlineduring the web registration period. Otherwise, youare required to submit a paper add/drop form tothe administrators. Student should take 12 to 18credits in a semester.

Choosing your modulesAll students spending their year abroad in HongKong must first consult their academic adviser atKent to discuss which modules to take. Contactdetails are found at the back of this guide.

Language coursesYou will have the opportunity to study Chinesewhile in Hong Kong.

Please note that Putonghua (or Mandarin) isChina’s national official language, while Cantoneseis a local dialect used mainly by southern Chinesein Guangdong province, Hong Kong and Macao.Seek the advice of your academic advisor if youare not sure which ‘language’ you should learn.

AssessmentYou are required to complete the assessment foryour registered course. Assessment proceduresare somewhat dissimilar to that at Kent, withstudents having to submit coursework essays andsit exams. This normally includes mid-term exams.The relative weights of coursework and examsdiffer between courses.

Transcript of recordsIt is your responsibility to ensure that all yourexam/coursework marks are registered with yourhost university. You should follow the hostuniversity procedures very carefully and submitany required documentation. You must alsorequest a transcript of your Hong Kong gradesbefore your departure; this will be sent to yourSchool and to you via Hazel Lander in theInternational Office at Kent.

The transcript should include the grade normallyawarded by the local institution,. For details of howyour marks will be converted, please contact youracademic advisor at Kent.

Writing styleBefore beginning your modules in Hong Kong, it isrecommended that you meet with your academicadvisor at your host university to discuss writingstyle. Assessors in Hong Kong may be looking forsomething subtly different from your teachers atKent.

PlagiarismPlagiarism is treated as a serious offence by boththe host institution and the University of Kent, andis likely to result in expulsion from your Kentdegree. Discuss proper citation and referencingmethods with your academic advisor in HongKong before submitting work. You can also receiveadvice from the Student Learning Advisory Serviceat Kent before you leave.

LibrariesYou will have full access to the comprehensivelibrary and learning resources at your hostinstitution. However, as at Kent, you may wish toallocate budget to the purchase of your maincourse books.

Academic culture

The Year Abroad (Hong Kong)Academic culture

Please note that examstake place

after the end of your courses in

December or May. Unlike Kent, there

is no summer term for exams. Please

make every endeavourto remain in

Hong Kong until you have completed

your exams.

7

Social lifeYour Orientation programme will include a numberof social events for new exchange students.Because of the location of the university, you willhave ample opportunity to mix with your HongKong peers.

Travel during the academic yearNB It is very important that you do not skip classesto travel. There is a three-week break fromDecember to January between the two semestersand a one-week break in mid-February 2011 forthe Chinese New Year holiday. Any trips you wishto make to mainland China or Taiwan must bearranged during this period, not during term time.

Settling inDon’t forget that adapting to the culture ofstudying in another country is part of theexperience of the period abroad! The first fewweeks may be difficult, but this can be overcomewith an open mind and positive attitude. Returningstudents are almost invariably enthusiastic abouttheir year abroad, some refer to it as ‘the best yearof my life’!

It is essential that you attend host university’sorientation programme. This is when you will begiven help will with registration, your modulechoices, accommodation, and local healthcarecover, etc. The orientation programme also offersyou an opportunity to make friends.

Being understoodHong Kong is a cosmopolitan city with Chinese asthe major ethnic group. Although most peoplespeak Cantonese, Putonghua is commonly used,and many people understand English. However,locals may have difficulty understanding you atfirst, especially if you have a strong regionalaccent. Be patient. Try to speak slowly and avoidcolloquialisms, and remember to smile.

Social customs and behaviourIt is common to call your peers by their first nameand to use titles to address elders and seniors –Mr Lee, Professor Jones etc.

Observe personal space. Avoid back slapping andnudging, as most Chinese people find this kind ofcontact uncomfortable from someone they do notknow well.

Do not push ahead of others in a queue.

It is not polite to ask a newly acquainted personabout their income or marital status.

Squatting on the street, spitting and shouting isregarded as uncivil. Putting your feet on a chair oron a train seat is considered bad manners.

Modesty is highly valued by the Chinese. Displaysof temper or anything extreme will be frownedupon.

FestivalsHong Kong upholds many Chinese festivals, themost important of which being Lunar Chinese NewYear in late Jan/early Feb, at which time classeswill be suspended and university offices closed.

Daily life in Hong KongHong Kong is a safe, well-lit city with extensivepublic transportation operating until midnight andserving your host university. It is a major financialdistrict, with plenty of activities for internationalworkers, tourists and locals alike. For a close lookat life in Hong Kong for exchange students, visitwww.discoverhongkong.com/login.html andstudyinhongkong.edu.hk/eng/index.jsp

Some hints• Examine your expectations• Listen and observe• Ask questions and seek clarification• Keep an open mind on cultural differences• Keep your sense of humour• Expect some anxiety and frustration. It will pass.• Get involved in student activities• Explore the Hong Kong local culture• Actively interact with local students andintroduce your culture to them

• Learn basic Cantonese

The Year Abroad (Hong Kong)Academic culture

8

Your Year Abroad will inevitablyinvolve some extra expense. Beprepared for some heavy initialexpenses.

(The information in this section is correct at thetime of going to press.)

University of Kent tuition feesFor 2010/11 you will be charged 50% of the hometuition fee ie £1,645.

Hong Kong tuition feesTuition fees are not payable to your institution inHong Kong: these fees have been waived underthe terms of the exchange agreement between theuniversity and the University of Kent.

Banking abroadWhether, and when, to open a bank account inyour host country depends very much on yourindividual circumstances. Before making adecision, consult your UK bank.

Your UK bankInform your bank that you will be spending thenext academic year abroad. They will be able toadvise you on managing your finances. Exchangerate inequalities and bank/card fees (oftensurprisingly high) make it essential for you tomanage your money in the most effective waypossible. Ask about procedures and costs fortransferring money abroad. Money can betransferred electronically with the minimum of fuss,but you will have to pay bank charges at one endof the transaction.

It is worthwhile shopping around to find a bankthat will most suit your needs and budget. If youhave a student account, your bank may changemoney and sell traveller’s cheques withoutcharging commission. Many students find thatInternet banking helps them to keep an eye ontheir account and to make transactions fromabroad. Check with your bank about their Internetfacilities and be aware of online banking securityissues.

Several students have recommended opening aNationwide account because they have not beencharged for withdrawing money abroad.

Remember to leave some paying-in slips with atrusted contact at home so that they may payfunds into your UK account in case of emergency.

Local banks in Hong KongIt is worth opening an account with a local bank assoon as possible after arrival. The British bank,HSBC, has a branch at HKU. Seewww.hku.hk/facilities/bankservices.html

Living costs and immediate expensesYou will need a fair amount of easily availablemoney during the first few weeks of your stay topay at least your first month’s rent (plus a deposit),for food and travel expenses, as well as localhealthcare cover. However, it is never sensible tocarry large amounts of cash around with you (seethe personal safety section on p12). At the time ofwriting the exchange rate of sterling for HongKong dollar is about HK$10.69 per pound Forupdated information, see www.kent.ac.uk/finance

BudgetingYou will no doubt be very excited by the prospectof spending a year in the Hong Kong – there areso many things to do and see! However, even withall this excitement, it is important to remember thatone of the keys to a stress-free experience abroadis to know your budget and to keep to it. Make alist of all of the money you will have coming in(student loans, money from parents for example)and what you expect to pay in outgoings. It isimportant not just to think about term-timeexpenses, but what costs you will incur during theholidays, when you may have to move out of yourhall of residence or may want to travel. Currencyvaluations can change quickly so don’t base yourbudgeting solely on the current exchange rate.

Money matters

The Year Abroad (Hong Kong)Money matters

9

Debit and credit cardsIf your debit card shows a Maestro symbol youcan withdraw cash and pay for goods andservices in places displaying that sign. A smallcharge will be made for this, so it is wise to checkthe exact rates with your bank (it is usually about£1.50). Commission charges can be less thanthose for traveller’s cheques and your withdrawallimit will be same amount as you have at home.

Visa/Mastercard can be used to pay for goods andservices and to withdraw cash wherever theirlogos are displayed, although some will not acceptthem for goods under a certain amount (possiblyas much as £20). Banks and Bureaux de Changewill change money for you but will charge youextra commission. Your passport will be needed asidentification.

Traveller’s chequesThese can be deposited into a bank account orcashed in a bank/bureau de change, usually freeof charge. You can buy traveller’s cheques in theUK from any high-street bank/bureau de change.Thomas Cook can usually issue them on the spot,and tend to stock larger amounts of foreigncurrency than high-street banks.

Keep your traveller’s cheques safe, with a separatenote of their numbers and only sign them in thepresence of a cashier. Any loss or theft should bereported immediately to the police and your bank.You will be given an emergency number to ringwhen your cheques are issued, to cover sucheventualities.

Student Loan CompaniesMost international universities/colleges commencetheir academic session in late August or earlySeptember, and accounts for accommodation, etc,are required to be paid at the time of registration.Thus, the co-operation of Student Finance England(SFE)/your Local Authority (LA) is essential if thefirst instalment of your student loan is to be paidbefore you leave for the United States.

You should call SFE/your LA Office during theEaster vacation. SFE/most LA’s will co-operate, butrequire the early completion and return to them oftheir financial assessment forms.

Remember to tell your LA/SFE that if you will havesemesters rather than terms and ensure that theyhave the correct dates for your academic year atyour host university. The Student Loans Company(SLC) will arrange to pay the first instalment ofyour loan via BACS about 25 days before the dayon which the course starts. Note that the SLC willalso pay subsequent instalments of your loan byBACS. You should contact them to ascertain whenthese instalments will become payable and to

The Year Abroad (Hong Kong)Money matters

resolve any problems that the timing of thosepayments might cause for you.

The Department for Business, Innovation, andSkills (BIS) have told us that the maximum loanavailable to students studying a year abroad in theacademic year 2010/11 will be £5,895.

If you have a student loan we will be happy towrite to Student Finance England/your LocalAuthority (LA) to let them know that you will bestudying abroad next year. To do this we will needyour ART ID/Customer Reference Number andyour Local Authority/SFE.

Emergency short-term loansThese are available for students who have beenassessed by their LEA as eligible for a studentloan, but whose first instalment has been delayed.Students should contact the Financial Aid Office [email protected] in the first instance.

Access to Learning FundThe Government provides funds to universities toenable them to assist home undergraduatestudents who are in financial difficulty – these areknown as the Access to Learning Funds.

Undergraduate students who have taken out theirfull means-tested entitlement of their maintenanceloan and have received the first instalment but findthemselves in financial difficulty can apply to theAccess to Learning Fund for a grant. Students canapply for a full year assessment (paid termly)and/or a non-standard award for exceptional costsand emergency situations.

Guidance Notes and Information explaining theapplication procedures at Kent and the criteriaused in considering applications can be obtainedfrom the Finance Office's websitehttp://www.kent.ac.uk/finance-student/index.html

Application Forms for each new academic yearshould be available from the beginning ofSeptember.

Start the application process by speaking to oneof our Student Advisers at:Kent UnionMandela [email protected] 824824

Benefit entitlementsIf you are receiving any form of benefit, you mustinform the National Insurance Contributions Officethat you will be studying abroad for a year, and askthem how this will affect you. Further informationon social security while abroad is available on theContributions Office website:www.inlandrevenue.gov.uk/nic (see leaflet NI38).

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Your physical and mental well-beingis of the utmost importance, as well asbeing a basic pre-requisite of asuccessful and happy period abroad.We advise students to be awarehowever, that existing physical orpsychological illnesses can becomeserious under the stresses of life whilestudying abroad so it is important tocarefully evaluate your health beforegoing abroad and to consult a mentalhealth professional, if necessary. Thisdoes not mean that students with anyphysical or mental conditions cannotor should not study abroad, but it doesmean that it is important to planahead to ensure that adequate supportis in place should you need it.

University facilitiesYour host university should have some form ofmedical provision on campus in case you urgentlyneed to see a doctor. You will be informed of all ofthe relevant facilities during your host universityorientation. If you are in any doubt about what isavailable on-campus (including what is available inemergencies), please contact your internationalstudent adviser.

Sports facilities on campusYou will have access to sport facilities at your hostinstitution. In addition, you may also be able tomake use of sport centres in the local vicinity. Seeyour host institution website for latest details.

Whether you’re a gung-ho fitness fanatic or asedate spectator, you will be impressed by HongKong’s sports and outdoor scenes. Hoof throughhundreds of kilometres of hiking trails in theirpristine country parks, hop right into a pickupbasketball game in park, or get a surprisingly spryelderly local to teach you the ancient art of tai chi!Join in the light-hearted lunacy of the RugbySevens, where thousands of pleasantly rabid,painted, half-dressed fans converge for a week ofsportsmanship that resembles Woodstock morethan Wimbledon. For the tennis fans, check out thelikes of Maria Sharapova, Roger Federer andRafael Nadal at the annual Watson’s WaterChampions Challenge.

Health regulations and vaccinationsHong Kong’s healthcare system is somewhatdifferent to that in the UK. Read the Health Advicefor Travellers leaflet (available from your post officeor on the Department of Health website) carefullyfor more details.

You are not required to register with a local GPduring your stay in Hong Kong, but you will have topay for consultations and medications if you seekmedical treatment from private doctors.

InsuranceInsurance is vital for your peace of mind. Westrongly recommend that you take out travelinsurance for medical expenses, personalbaggage, and public liability. It is important thatyou check that your policy covers all your potentialneeds: for instance, you may need extra cover forrented accommodation abroad, personal carinsurance or expensive high-risk items such aslaptop computers or musical instruments. Some ofthese items may require separate policies. Beprepared for the unexpected to happen – it isalways better to be over, rather than under,insured.

All University of Kent students who undertakeoverseas work experience, fieldwork, study,research, or any other course related activity, arenow eligible to take advantage of University traveland personal accident insurance. For furtherdetails, see www.kent.ac.uk/finance-staff/services/insurance/studentfieldwork/index.html

Baggage and personal insuranceThis cover is not refundable by your LEA, and youshould make separate arrangements for this,which should be paid for from your student loan orpersonal funds. It is a good idea to think about thevaluables you will be taking with you (laptop,camera, mobile phone for example) and alsoconsider how much travel you will be doing inHong Kong while you are there.

Dental careDental care is not usually covered by universityhealth insurance plans and dental treatment inHong Kong can be expensive. Check anyinsurance policy you have and enquire separatelyat the university/college on your arrival if there isany on-campus provision. You are advised to havea full check-up in the UK before you leave, so thatany necessary treatment is obtained under theNHS prior to departure – this could save youmoney and worry at a later date!

Sport and healthcare

The Year Abroad (Hong Kong)Sport and healthcare

11

MedicationIf you are on any medication (including thecontraceptive pill), you should consult your doctorin plenty of time before you leave for Hong Kong.This is a good opportunity for you to discuss yourhealthcare with your doctor before leaving the UK,and you should also use that opportunity to checkif you can take an academic year’s supply of themedication you will need while you are abroad.Medication may be more expensive in Hong Kong,so purchasing your medication in the UK will againsave you money at a later date.

Declaration of illnesses, disabilities orallergiesIt is advisable for you to declare any illnesses,disabilities or allergies you have before you arriveat your host university so that reasonableadjustments can be made to accommodate you.‘Illnesses’ in this context may also includepsychological illnesses, such as mental healthissues and ‘disabilities’ may include conditionssuch as dyslexia. Please be assured that yourpersonal information will be treated in the strictestconfidence and shared only with the staff whoneed to be aware of such information. It is in yourown interest to make your university aware of thisinformation so that they have this information onfile for emergencies or to provide you with all ofthe support you need. If you would like to clarifyanything about this, please contact theInternational Office in the first instance.

Counselling and mental illnessWhile your year abroad should be a time ofexcitement and personal fulfilment, it can also be atime of stress when some students may struggleto cope with some of the cultural differencesbetween Hong Kong and the UK. For this reason,existing mental illnesses, including those thatseem to be under control in the UK, can becomeexasperated during the period of study abroad soit is important to anticipate any problems in orderto try to prevent them from occurring or tominimise their impact on your daily life. As notedabove, it is advisable to declare such conditions toyour host university so that they are aware of anyfurther help you might need.

In addition to making this declaration, it is also agood idea to see your doctor or counsellor beforeyou leave the UK to plan how you might cope withyour year in Hong Kong. The University of Kent(including the International Office and your homedepartment) is also available for assistance so feelfree to contact us (see the Contacts section onp20) if you require assistance or if you feel thatyou need to talk to someone from the UK.

Fortunately, these feelings do not usually persist,and the long-term results of these crises are oftencloser friendships with other students and animproved sense of your own capabilities. Pastexperience suggests that after Christmas the YearAbroad adventure just gets better and better, andthat by the end of the summer term you’ll be verysorry to leave.

Dealing with stressIf you do find you are suffering from culture shockat first, especially from encounters with impersonalbureaucracy, talk to someone about it. Don’t sufferin silence! You may well find that they have similarfeelings, and you can help each other to getthrough it.

• Remember to keep in contact with friends andfamily at home.

• Tell someone if you feel anxious, unwell orunable to cope.

• Contact the International Office at Kent.• Speak to your local contacts: the Office ofInternational Student Exchange or a teacher atHKU/CityU.

The International Office at Kent is here to help! Ifyou are feeling homesick, anxious or have any sortof problem, do not hesitate to contact us. Ifnecessary, we will return your call to save youmoney. Most International Office staff membershave experience of living/studying abroad and canempathise with the anxieties and problems facedby students. The International Office at Kent ismanned from 9am-5pm on UK time.

If, for some reason, you do not want to talk touniversity or other staff (either here or at HKU/CityU)in detail about a problem, there are often localsupport organisations who can help you.

It is strongly recommended that youdo not attempt to undertake paid workduring your exchange year abroad, notleast because this may violate theterms of your visa, and because thedemands of the course mean that youwill not have enough time for yourstudies.

If financial problems cause you to considerworking to supplement your income, you must talkthis over with the International Office at your hostinstitution and the UK, and your academic adviser.It may be that you can undertake minimal hours ofwork.

Working inHong Kong

The Year Abroad (Hong Kong)Working in Hong Kong

Hong Kong, a former British colonyand current Special AdministrativeRegion of China, is home to anexceptional culture. Born of a fusion ofancient Chinese heritage and a longperiod of Western influence, HongKong is a multifaceted city whereEnglish and Cantonese, feng shui andfootball, towering skyscrapers andhistorical sites exist side by side.Learn about the city from its Neolithicbeginnings to its current position as aworld city.

Both fast-paced and personal, Hong Kong offers adistinctive blend of Chinese tradition and the finestinternational food, brands, and entertainment. Inpursuit of a night on the town? Hong Kong hasentire neighbourhoods devoted to nightlife. Youcan relax at a sidewalk café, take up tai chi, or gohiking in one of the stunning country parks.

Personal safetyForeigners are usually less able to detect dangersigns and therefore slightly more at risk from crimethan local residents. Every town or city has itsunsavoury areas that should be avoided and youshould find out about this before you arrive,particularly if you are looking for your ownaccommodation

Follow the same precautions as you would athome. Hold on tightly to your bags, especially in acrowd, and keep your wallet close to your body sothat it cannot be taken without you noticing.Pickpockets are common, especially aroundgroups of foreigners. Lock your room securelywhen you leave it. Avoid travelling alone late atnight. If you lose any personal belongings ordocuments, go directly to the police and reporttheir loss.

In addition, it is worth remembering that the lessconspicuous you look, the less interest you will belikely to provoke. For example, if you have toconsult a map, it is better to do it in a café than toadvertise that you are unsure of yoursurroundings.

Your behaviour will also play a part in yourpersonal safety. Young people in Hong Kong donot in general drink to get drunk so ensure thatyou check the behaviour of your peer group inbars, cafés and discos. If one of your group is theworse for wear, do make sure that you accompanyhim/her home. Your dress code will also influencethe way you are treated: again look to your peergroup for guidance on not causing offence and toavoid making yourself unnecessarily vulnerable.

Legal mattersThe only way to avoid theft is to be constantly onyour guard. Only take out large sums of moneywhen absolutely necessary and if possible keepyour documents and money on your person, ratherthan in a bag, which can be easily snatched. Ifyou are robbed, you should report this to the

police immediately (by calling 999). If you loseyour credit/bank cards, get in touch with your bankimmediately to have them stopped. Banks at homeand abroad provide emergency numbers for usein the event of loss or theft; so keep a note ofthese numbers – but keep them separate from thecards themselves.

In the event of the loss of your documents, thepolice will write out a temporary form that willcover you whilst you are in the process ofobtaining new papers, which you should do at theBritish Consulate. If you find yourself without yourpassport, any access to cash, or in any otherserious trouble, the Consulate will try to help (seethe British Consulate section below).

In the unlikely event of you being arrested for aserious offence, insist on the Consulate beinginformed: you will be contacted as soon aspossible by a consular officer who can advise youon local procedures, etc.

The British ConsulateIf you experience any serious problems while youare away, it is worth bearing in mind that the BritishConsulate is there for your assistance. A Consulatecan provide the following services:• Issue emergency passports• Contact relatives and friends and ask them tohelp you with money or tickets

• Advise you how to transfer funds• Advance money against a sterling cheque for£50 supported by a banker’s card

• Provide a list of local lawyers and doctors• Give some guidance on organisationsexperienced in tracing missing persons

• If you are arrested on a serious offence, youmust insist on the British Consulate beinginformed. (You will be contacted as soon aspossible by a consular officer who can adviseyou on local procedures etc.)

• If you lose your money, passport or anythingelse abroad, report it first to the local police andobtain a statement about the loss. Then contactthe Consulate if you still need help.

• Some offer a lending library facility – or mayknow of one – for reading material in English.

The British Consulate’s mandate is to help Britishcitizens abroad but they do not have unlimitedresources. They are able to give advice and/orrefer you to the relevant office where you can findmore detailed information. They cannot do thework of banks, travel agents, etc. The BritishConsulate cannot bail you out if you run intotrouble with the local authorities. It can, however,notify relevant parties who will be able to help you.

The contact details of the British Consulate-General in Hong Kong can be found at:www.britishconsulate.org.hk

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Life in Hong Kong

The Year Abroad (Hong Kong)Life in Hong Kong

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Travel within Hong Kong

The Year Abroad (Hong Kong)Travel within Hong Kong

Whether you arrive by air, rail, or sea,you’ll be downtown in no time. HongKong’s modern, efficient publictransportation network will knockyour socks off! A spotless subwaysystem, the MTR (Mass TransitRailway) has ten lines connectingmajor population centres, NewTerritories and Mainland China; italso has the fastest ride to and fromthe airport. Buses zip the length andbreadth of the city, 24 hours a day.You’ll be impressed by how far you cango without ever setting foot in an car.

You can go joyriding on Hong Kong Island'sdouble-decker tram system, which costs only $2no matter how long the journey. If you need to getoff the beaten track, public light buses (technicallycalled maxi cabs, known to all as green or redminibuses) fly through less-serviced areas. Redones go anywhere, green ones have set routes.Wear a seatbelt, and learn to scream ‘yau lok!’(stop!) in Cantonese.

For a lower-adrenaline experience, take anenvironmentally friendly LPG-powered taxi. Theycome in three colours – red in Hong Kong Islandand Kowloon, green in the New Territories, andblue on Lantau Island. The red ones can goanywhere in the territory (except for the outlyingislands, of course!), while the green and blue areconfined to their respective areas.

Hong Kong’s hilly terrain calls for some out-of-the-ordinary means of transport – witness the annualsedan chair race up to Victoria Peak, amasochistic re-enactment of the days when ladieshad to be carried to the top. So, while you can hikethere, it’s much more fun to be pulled up the near-vertical hillside by Hong Kong’s oldest mode oftransport, the PeakTram. Haven’t had enoughhauling? Step onto the world’s longest outdoorcovered escalator to get to Soho’s nightlife, or takea swinging ride over the wilds of Lantau on thenew Ngong Ping 360 cable car.

Ferries cruise to the main outlying islands, andacross Victoria Harbor. The Star Ferry, a personalfavourite of martial arts star Jackie Chan, runsbetween Hong Kong Island and Kowloon. It’spopular among tourists for its stunning views ofthe skyline, and among locals for its wallet-friendlyfares. Jetfoils ply the waters between Hong Kong,Macau, Shenzhen, and other cities in South Chinain record time. To get to truly remote islands, try akaido (ferry-like boats that may or may not run atscheduled times) or sampan (small, private boatsthat can be hired by flagging down local fisherfolk).

Before you start travelling, pick up a handyOctopus card. It works like a debit card,subtracting money every time you use it to pay formost public transportation. It also works at somesupermarkets, fast food joints, and vendingmachines.

HotelsHong Kong is well served be a range of hotels ofvarying price. Local tourist offices and web-sitessuch as www.hotels.com can help you with yourchoice.

You will have the opportunity totravel to mainland China during youryear in Hong Kong. You have to applyseparately for visa to enter MainlandChina, which you could do so afteryour arrival in Hong Kong. Forfurther information, please visitwww.ctshk.com/english/useful/chinesevisa.htm You have to consult theembassy/consulate of the othercountries if a travel visa is required.

Hong Kong airport is a major hub of the regionand well connects you to exciting destinationsacross Asia. Make sure you check with the countryyou intend to visit whether or not a visa is required.

You need to apply for a separate tourist visa toenter Mainland China. Application procedures anddetails can be found on the homepage of theChina Travel Service Agency.

You can get a Octopus Card application form atyour Faculty Office, fill in your details and submit itto the Mass Transit Railway Offices.

Travelling to other countries

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The Year Abroad (Hong Kong)Travelling to other countries

15

The Year Abroad (Hong Kong)Life back home

Keeping in touch with the University of KentOnce installed in Hong Kong, please keep in touchwith us!

We like to hear from you – don’t wait for a disasterbefore you contact us! A letter/email from you willalways get a response, albeit sometimes brief, andpostcards are always appreciated. If you come tothe University during the year, please feel free tovisit the Office and tell us how you are getting on.

We do our best to keep in touch and contact youabout specific matters (most frequently by groupemail), but unless you contact us we assume thatall is well. If you have not heard from us for a whileand are concerned, please do not hesitate tocontact us. You will find our contact details on p20.

Your contact detailsIt is very important that we have your contactdetails for the summer vacation and the YearAbroad, as we send out emails and formsthroughout the year. You will also be sent veryimportant information from other offices about finalyear accommodation, modules and other mattersby email or post.

CommunicationYour School and the International Office will contactyou in the first instance by email (at your Kentaccount), and it is important that you let us know ifit is difficult for you to access a PC or the Internetat least once a week. If you want us to contact youadditionally at another email address, include thisaddress on your Year Abroad address form.

There are two approaches to accessing your Kentemail:• Use the University’s webmail service, whichallows you to access your Kent email addressfrom abroad

• Have your email forwarded to another emailaddress. This can only be done on a PC at Kent:contact the Student helpdesk if you needassistance.

Important note:Keep the number of emails stored in your Kentaccount to a minimum, because going over quotamay prevent you from sending, receiving ordeleting emails. Delete unwanted emails andcheck that you have none stored in your deleteditems folder.

If you do have problems with your Kent emailaddress, contact the Student helpdesk forassistance:

Student helpdeskT: +44 (0)1227 824999E: [email protected] complete the online form atwww.kent.ac.uk/itservices/forms/query/query.html

Internet servicesYou may find that access to PCs and/or theInternet is widely available at your university inHong Kong

Registering to vote as an overseas studentBritish citizens can apply to vote in UK electionsby post or proxy for one particular election or for afixed time (eg, one year).

‘Voting by proxy’ means that you will assignsomeone at home the task of voting on yourbehalf in an election. Voting by post means thatapproximately ten days before the election a votingpack will be sent to your address abroad withdetailed instructions. If you have applied to voteby proxy or post, you cannot then decide to vote inperson.

In order to vote in this way, you must contact yourlocal council as soon as possible to register as anoverseas elector and to obtain a voting applicationform.

Life back home

Just as you have to undertakepreparations for your outboundjourney, there is also some planningthat you need to undertake as youprepare to return home. You mayreceive additional letters and memosconcerning your year in Hong Kongso please check your Kent emailaddresses frequently, as some of ourcorrespondence with you will be toremind you about various upcomingimportant deadlines.

Clearing debtsBefore you leave your host university, ensure thatyou have cleared all outstanding debts. Even ifyou don’t think you owe any outstanding money toyour university, complete a quick check before youleave in case you have incurred any debts ofwhich you might not be aware. The most obviousitems to check would be your library (anyborrowing fines for example), your accommodation(any outstanding rent or accommodation services)and your insurance (for your healthcare). If yourhost university believes that you owe any funds tothem, they will not release your transcript to usuntil your account has been settled and there isnothing that we can do to intervene on this, as it iswould be a private matter between you and yourhost university. Completing the quick check shouldalso give you peace of mind that your transcriptwill be sent to us in a timely manner.

Registering for classes at the University ofKentIt is vital that you frequently check your Kent emailaddresses while you are on your year abroad, aswe will be sending you important informationthroughout the year. One such example is that youwill be required to select your modules for 2011/12just after Christmas (which is the same deadlineas for students back in the UK) and students whofail to meet this deadline will inevitably have muchless choice in the availability of modules.

Accommodation at the University of KentThe University can offer rooms in private sectorshared housing off-campus.

The University has head-leased a number of goodquality properties from a reputable local landlord.All of these properties are within easy reach of thecampus and the accommodation costs will includeall utilities and broadband internet access. Theavailable houses have three, four, five or sixbedrooms and are located on the north side ofCanterbury near the university. We regret it is notpossible to arrange viewings of individualproperties in advance of your arrival or to choosethe location of your property.

The cost of the accommodation is exactly thesame as the Landlord/Agent is offering to otherstudents. No extra fees are being added by theAccommodation office or University for arrangingthis accommodation. Council Tax exemption willbe arranged by the University and the landlord.

When you apply you will have the opportunity toadvise us of any preferences and friends withwhom you may wish to share. At the end of theapplication process, an advance payment of £300will be required by 31 March 2011 to secure theaccommodation. Please note that all returningstudents are required to make an advance paymentto secure a room (not just year abroad students).

You may apply at the link below.http://kenthospitality.kent.ac.uk/myaccommodation/

Applications from students with an outstandingdebt at the University may be cancelled and anyadvance payment made may be retained andused towards settlement of any outstandingstudent account balance.

Room allocations will be made in July/August 2011.At this time an email will be sent to your universityemail address. You will then be able to view andaccept the offer of accommodation online.

Although we cannot guarantee to offer specificrooms, we will try to meet preferences whereverpossible, including requests to share with friends ifyou have supplied their full name and student IDnumber on your application and they have alsobeen offered a room.

The Accommodation will be available for you tomove in to and occupy from 1 September 2011until 30 June 2012. The cost of thisaccommodation for the current year is equivalentto just under £92 per week which includes the costof all utilities and broadband internet. We expectthere will be a small increase for the comingacademic year.

There is no obligation to take up this offer. If youwould prefer to find your own off-campusaccommodation, you are welcome to do so. Theoff-campus housing pages give a lot of usefulinformation at www.kent.ac.uk/hospitality/staff-student/accommodation/offcampus/index.htm thisincludes the new interactive housing list.

TranscriptsDon’t forget to complete any end of year/semesterprocedures in Hong Kong. If you are sent a copyof your transcript, please bring the originaldocument to Hazel Lander, in the InternationalOffice when you return to Kent.

Preparing to return home

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The Year Abroad (Hong Kong)Preparing to return home

17

The Year Abroad (Hong Kong)Other resources

Other resources

Kent International Office sitewww.kent.ac.uk/international

General Hong Kong sitehttp://studyinhongkong.edu.hk/eng/index.jsp

University of Hong Kong sitewww3.hku.hk/oise/eng/intro.php

CitU sitewww.cb.cityu.edu.hk/exchange/studentlife.cfm

University of Hong Kong pdfhttp://cedars.hku.hk/nonlocal/publication/prepguide0910.pdf

Flightswww.expedia.com

Hotelswww.hotels.com

Travel to Chinawww.ctshk.com/english/useful/chinesevisa.htm

Travel guidewww.lonelyplanet.com

The University of Hong Kong

Academic

How do I register for classes?You will need to indicate the courses that youintend to take when filling in the exchangeapplication. OISE will send your application to therelated faculty with reference to your courseselection. Upon receiving the admission letter, youwill know which courses you are allowed to take.

After you arrive HKU, you need to open your ownonline course registration account and maychange your course selection during the ‘add/dropperiod’, which is usually a period of two weeks ofchanging your course selection after the first weekof class.

Housing

When can students move in to halls?You will need to confirm your check-in day withyour hall before coming to Hong Kong. You areencouraged to arrive during regular businesshours in so you can easily check into your room.

Are linens and towels provided?Linens and towels are not included. Studentstypically purchase linens and towels after arrival.

Can students arrange for off-campus housing?Yes, however keep in mind that off-campusaccommodations are scarce and extremelyexpensive. Housing is in great demand throughoutHong Kong and living space for most residents isrestricted.

On arrival

How do I apply for a Hong Kong identity card?If your length of stay in HK is more than 180 days,you need to apply for a HKID card. The applicationprocedure can be found on the homepage of theHong Kong Immigration Department atwww.immd.gov.hk/ehtml/hkid.htm

What is the recommended arrival date?Exchange students should try to arrive at least oneweek prior to classes starting as orientationprogrammes will be held during that week forinternational students.

Can I use my own laptop at HKU?Yes. Most areas on the HKU main campus areequipped with WiFi connection. Please seewww.hku.hk/cc/services/wlan/wlan.htm forconnection details. Student residential halls areconnected to the HKU Campus Network, with anetwork point provided for each hall resident.Please seewww.hku.hk/cc/home/networks/hallnet.htm forsetting up your internet connection in the halls.

Are there any gym facilities at HKU?There are two gyms in HKU. If you want to usethese and you already have a gym membershipcard from a sports institution or your home school,please bring these with you so that you can beexempted from having to take a gym training classagain before getting a HKU gym card.

CityU Hong Kong

Accommodation

How much do I have to pay for the studentresidence?Please visit the student residence website for thecurrent residence fee.www.cityu.edu.hk/sro/index.htm

When will the payment for my residence be due?The payment for housing will be due around onemonth after you have checked in.

Are homestay or other off-campus housingoptions arranged by CityU for exchangestudents?No.

Can I request for a single room at the studentresidence?There are a small number of typical single rooms.They will be first assigned to those who havespecial needs or medical reasons. Please submitany supporting documents with your application.

What is the student residence withdrawal policy?Early withdrawal from hostel residence if initiatedby the student:

If you withdraw within the second week of therelevant academic year you will receive a refundon a pro-rata daily rate basis.

If you withdraw after the second week of therelevant academic year, no refund is given.

Early withdrawal from student residence if initiatedby the University, eg, due to violation of regulations,or expulsion from University on account ofdisciplinary and/or academic grounds, you willreceive a refund on a pro-rata daily rate basis.

Are laundries available in the student residence?Yes. For charges, please visit student residencewebsite. www.cityu.edu.hk/sro/index.htm

Are self-catering apartments available?No. A common room is available on each floor ofthe student residence, with basic pantry facilities,a microwave oven, a refrigerator and a television.

Is the student residence close to the campus?The student residence is within 10 to 15 minuteswalking distance to the main campus.

Course selection

Are courses taught in English?Unless otherwise determined by the Senate for aspecific course or programme, the medium ofinstruction and assessment at the University isEnglish.

What courses are offered to exchange students?All courses offered under the full-time Bachelor ofBusiness Administration (BBA) Programme areavailable to exchange students, subject toavailability of places and requirements. You areadvised to read the BBA course list (under BBAProgrammes) before filling in the course plan andconsult the academic advisers at your homeuniversity about credit transfer requirements.

How many credits do I need to take?Student should take 12 to 18 credits in a semester.

Do incoming exchange students register forcourses prior to arrival? How is this done?You are required to make a study plan and submitit via the online application system before theapplication deadline. The administrators willpre-register the courses for you.

Can I change my course selection?You can change your course selection during thethree-week add/drop period which starts twoweeks before the new semester begins.Confirmation is subject to the approval by therelevant department.

How can I add or drop courses?For courses which are web-enabled, you can addor drop classes online during the web registrationperiod. Otherwise, you are required to submit apaper add/drop form to the administrators.

FAQs

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The Year Abroad (Hong Kong)FAQs

Continued overleaf

19

The Year Abroad (Hong Kong)Year Abroad regulations

Year Abroadregulations

Insurance

Are exchange students required to purchasehealth insurance at CityU?Students who have not provided a copy of theirtravel insurance policy to them by a specific datewill be assumed to have no insurance coverageand the University will arrange, on your behalf,an insurance policy covering hospitalisation andmedical expenses.

Does CityU have any policy on health insurancefor exchange students?It is mandatory for non-local students to havesuitable and adequate insurance covering travel,personal accident, medical expenses (accidentand non-accident), hospitalisation and emergencyevacuation/repatriation throughout the entireperiod of your study in Hong Kong. You arerequired to either purchase insurance on your ownbefore leaving your home city or, if you are unableto do so or wish to have additional insurancecoverage, enrol in the Group Personal Accidentand Medical Benefits Insurance Plan for Non-localStudents contracted by the University.

Transportation

How can I get to CityU from airport?CityU is easily accessible by various forms ofpublic transportation. Please visitwww.cityu.edu.hk/inso/ for directions.

Visa

Do I need a visa to study in Hong Kong?International students who do not have the right ofabode in Hong Kong and wish to enter Hong Kongfor education must obtain a student visa beforecoming to Hong Kong. For details, please refer tothe ‘Immigration Policy on Education’ issued by theHon Kong immigration Department atwww.immd.gov.hk/ehtml/hkvisas_study.htm.

Do I apply for the visa in my home country?CityU may apply for the study visa on your behalfin Hong Kong. The approved visa will be sent toyou by courier before your departure for HongKong. If you want CityU to apply for the visa onyour behalf, you should submit the completedRequest for Visa Sponsorship & StudentUndertaking Form together with your applicationfor exchange.

How long does it take for a visa application?The process usually takes four to six weeks. It maytake longer if the required supporting documentsare incomplete.

What documents should be included with thevisa application form?• Host institution application form (online submit)• Immigration Department – Visa/Entry PermitApplication Form

• Application for student residence• Course selection form• Original transcript or grades• Photocopy of passport• Evidence of financial standing• Essay• Two passport-sized photos

What kind of financial statement do I need toprovide?Your name and current balance must be shown onthe financial statement. It can be a copy of yourbank statement, your savings accounts passbooks(eg, a letter from your bank or financial institutionstating your current balance), tax receipts andemployment certificates.

May I send the application forms by fax to CityU?No. Only the original visa application forms areaccepted. The fax copy of your passport is usuallytoo dim to identify your information and photo soyou need to send all the forms to us by post.

Can I pay the visa and mailing fees by cheque?No, we can only accept payment by credit card orbank draft

What if the visa can not be approved before Idepart for Hong Kong?You will need to enter Hong Kong as visitor first.Then get the visa and change your status tostudent after arrival.

Does the student visa allow me to enter MainlandChina, and fly to other countries?The Study Visa is only good for entering HongKong. You have to apply separately for a visa toenter Mainland China, which can be done afteryour arrival in Hong Kong. For further information,please visitwww.ctshk.com/english/useful/chinesevisa.htm.You have to consult the embassy/consulate of theother countries if travel visa is required.

Please ensure that you are familiarwith the following regulations.Satisfactory completion of the yearabroad is a condition for entry into thefourth year of your degree at Kent.

In order to complete the year satisfactorily, youmust:1 Be aware of and comply with the regulations

regarding Year Abroad marks.2 Be resident in the approved place for the

requisite period. The formal requirement is thatyou spend a full academic year abroadaccording to the academic calendar of thehost institution. If a major personal difficultyseems to require a longer absence you mustget in touch with your academic advisor and,if possible, receive confirmation of approvalbefore acting on this.

3 Satisfy any requirements that go with yourplacement. Follow university courses seriouslyand take all exams wherever possible.

4 Where applicable meet any members of stafffrom the University of Kent who may visit youduring the course of the year.

5 Keep Hazel Lander and your academicadvisor informed of your address andcomplete and return the forms sent to you.

6 Provide information on your placement forfuture students by means of a questionnairesent by a contact at Kent.

7 Submit any work required of you by Kent bythe due date.

8 Do not leave any debts or other liabilitiesbehind when you return to Kent.

9. Conduct yourself in a manner consistent withthe norms of the Hong Kong university and ina manner that will reflect creditably on theUniversity of Kent.

10 Apply to the Hong Kong university for a copyof the transcript of your academic results andsubmit any required work within the deadlinesyou are given. This is your responsibility.

Remember…

• The year counts as part of your

degree!• If you have a serious p

roblem,

contact your academic advisor at

Kent as soon as possible. He/she will

be able to advise you onthe best

person to speak to abroad or at

Kent.

20

University of Kent

Dr Pak K LeeDepartment of Politics and International RelationsRutherford College (N4.E3)University of KentCanterbury, Kent CT2 7NXT: +44 (0)1227 824505E: [email protected]

Dr Ana de MedeirosDirector of InternationalisationFaculty of HumanitiesMarlowe BuildingUniversity of KentCanterbury, Kent CT2 7NRT: +44 (0)1227 827429E: [email protected]

Film StudiesDr Mattias FreyLecturer in Film StudiesJarman Building 2-26University of KentCanterbury, Kent CT2 7UGT: +44 (0)1227 827132E: [email protected]

EnglishDr David StirrupYear Abroad Co-OrdinatorRutherford College ExtensionUniversity of KentCanterbury, Kent CT2 7NXT: +44 (0)1227 823440E: [email protected]

BusinessDr Jesse O'HanleyKent Business School, Room KBS 109University of KentCanterbury, Kent CT2 7PET: +44 (0)1227 (82)4286E: [email protected]

The International Office is responsible for the non-academic side of your Year Abroad:

Hazel LanderInternational Office Co-Ordinator/Welfare and Exchanges OfficerInternational OfficeRegistryUniversity of KentCanterbury, Kent CT2 7NZT: +44 (0)1227 827994F: +44 (0)1227 823247E: [email protected]/international/index.html

University of Hong Kong

The Academic Adviser at the University of HongKong is:Dr Sara R JordanDepartment of Politics and Public AdministrationRoom 638Wong Chuang Lai Wah BuildingMeng Wah ComplexUniversity of Hong KongPok Fu Lam RoadHong KongT: +852 2859 1088F: +852 2858 3550E: [email protected]

For non-academic matters, contact:Miss Kim TamProgramme Manager(Europe, South America and Asia)Office of International Student ExchangeGlobal LoungeG/F, Fong Shu Chuen Amenities CentreUniversity of Hong KongPok Fu Lam RoadHong KongT +852 2219 4138E: [email protected]

The Chinese Language CentreSchool of ChineseRoom 102Pao Siu Loong BuildingUniversity of Hong KongT: (+852) 2859 2048E: [email protected]

ArtsCyrus ChanFaculty of ArtsThe University of Hong KongPok Fu Lam RoadHong KongT: +852 2219 4984E: [email protected]

LawJacqueline WongFaculty of LawThe University of Hong KongPok Fu Lam RoadHong KongT: +852 2859 2953E: [email protected]

City University of Hong Kong (Business)

Ada KwokExecutive Office, Exchange ProgrammeCity University of Hong KongTat Chee Avenue, KowloonHong KongT: +852 3442-5854F: +852 2788-7182E: [email protected]

Ms Annie Sing/Ms Popo Fok (Politics)College of Humanities & Social Sciences(Internationalization Team)City University of Hong KongRoom G7414, Academic Building83 Tat Chee AvenueKowloon TongHong KongT: 852 2784 4833F: 852 2784 4830E: [email protected]

Embassies and Consulates

The Chinese EmbassyYou may need to go to the Chinese Embassy inLondon to apply for your student visa.

The Visa Office31 Portland PlaceLondon W1B 1QDT: +44 (0)20 7631 1430E: [email protected]/eng

TravelSTA Travelwww.statravel.co.ukT: 0871 230 0040

Freight companiesParcelforcewww.parcelforce.comT: 08708 501150

Fedexhttp://fedex.com/gb/T: 0845 6070809

British Airways,www.baworldcargo.com/productsT: 08457 222 777

Useful telephone numbers in Hong Kong

Hong Kong’s Country Code(International Prefix) 852Emergency (Ambulance, Fire, Police) 999Directory Assistance 1083Time 18503Weather 187 8200Collect Calls 10010News (RTHK) 2272 0000Hong Kong Tourism Board Hotline 2508 1234Hong Kong International Airport 2181 0000Immigration Department 2824 6111Department of Health 2961 8989Police (non-emergency) 2527 7177

Contacts

The Year Abroad (Hong Kong)Contacts

Finally, some advice from one of our current Kent Hong Kong Year Abroad students:

“Deciding to study in Hong Kong was a very easydecision for me to make. This city has a lot to offeras well as City University. Hong Kong is one of themost developed cities in the world. It’s clean, lovelyskyscrapers, very good transport to get you aroundthe city and last but not least the food is delicious.When compared to the UK the living costs here areaffordable. Since I am studying Business I don’t thinkthere could have been a better city to live in thanthis. Hong Kong is the hub of all businesses righton the border with China and very close to otherdestinations. On the weekends you can hop on a planeand be in Thailand or Bali. The friends you will makehere is another factor to take into consideration.I have shared this experience with some lovely peoplewho I am surely going to keep in touch with whenI leave. Overall, this is a very rewarding andenjoyable experience.”Amanda-Xuereb

We hope you will have a pleasant journey and an enjoyable time in Hong Kong. Ifa member of the International Office staff is in the vicinity of your campus duringthe academic year, they will arrange to meet you to find out how you are doing. Wewish you the best of luck with your year abroad!

See you next year!

Finally

University of KentThe Registry, Canterbury,Kent CT2 7NZT +44 (0)1227 827994E [email protected]

www.kent.ac.uk

DPC1091872/10

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Documents

The Year Abroad (Hong Kong)