Predeparture Oxford AYA 2012

EF International Language Centers

Academic Year Abroad For adults and Students aged 16 & above

Oxford This ultra-charming university town defines the very best of higher education, having produced notables from Nobel Prize winners to novelists. Add your name to the list of Oxford alumni and join EF to study English in the footsteps of the famous.

Contact details: Pullens Lane, Headington Oxford, OX3 ODT, UK Tel: +(44) 1865 759660

EF Oxford

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Accreditations and Memberships The EF International Language Centers in London, Cambridge, Brighton, Oxford, Manchester, Bristol and Bournemouth are:

The EF International Language Centers in London, Cambridge, Brighton, Oxford, Manchester and Bournemouth are members of:

EF Dublin is accredited by:

The EF International Language Centers in the USA are accredited by:

The EF International Language Centers in the USA are members of:

EF Vancouver and Toronto are accredited

by Languages Canada.

The EF International Language Centers in Sydney, Brisbane and Perth are accredited by:

Important Note: Factual information contained in this document is subject to change.

The EF International Language Centers in Brisbane and Perth are members of:

The EF International Language Centers in Cambridge, München, Cape Town and Nice are accredited by:

EF Nice is recognized with the Label Qualité Français Langue Etrangère.

Federation of International Youth Travel Organizations.

All EF Courses are certified by Southern New Hampshire University.

EF Education is an active participant in the Comité Européen de Normalisation.

All EF Courses are recognized by Hult International Business School.

www.ef.com

Contents - Oxford Section....... Topic

1 .............Introduction to EF

Dear Student

2 .............Welcome to the UK

Thank you for choosing the EF International Language Center

3 .............Weather watch

and is located in its own garden just a 25 minute walk, or a 10

4 .............Travel & transfer service

in which to study and explore the city. If you require help in

5 .............School information 6 .............Academics 7 .............Accommodation & meals 8 .............Money matters 9 .............Phones, faxes & Internet

in Oxford for your studies. The school was founded in 2006 minute bus ride, from the city centre, making it an ideal location preparing for exams, obtaining a work placement, or guidance in studies at an English university we are here to help you!

In addition to your academic work we have staff available to help with your accommodation and your leisure time, ensuring that you make the most of your stay with us. As EF draws students from all over the world it will be easy for you to make many friends from around the globe!

Oxford is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Known

10 ...........Health care & insurance

as the “city of dreaming spires�, it is home to the University

11 ...........School activities & excursions

It is a cosmopolitan university town and this is reflected in

12 ...........Transportation

concerts, music festivals, river races and fairs taking place

13 ...........Expectations

then London is less than one hour by train.

14 ...........UK culture & living tips

We very much look forward to welcoming you to the Oxford

15 ...........Adjusting to a new culture

of Oxford, the oldest university in the English speaking world. the shops, restaurants and entertainment sector. There are throughout your time here, and if you are feeling adventurous

school and helping you make the most of your time in England.

16 ...........EF school calendar & holidays 17 ...........Checklist

Best wishes, Ruth Chambers, Executive Director EF International Language Center, Oxford

1. Introduction to EF EF Education First welcomes students of all ages from every corner of the world to learn a language where it is natively spoken. Our innovative curriculum, the EF Efekta™ System, integrates face-to-face learning in a classroom with studying outside the classroom using the interactive learning tools in our online iLab. An intensively structured academic program along with an array of educational and social activities results in a fast and fun way to learn a language.

EF students come from diverse backgrounds and like you, they have chosen a program to enhance their language skills as part of their academic or career plan. Many have planned for years to take advantage of this opportunity.

A large percentage of EF students apply their new language skills by taking a recognized exam, such as Cambridge, TOEFL, TOEIC and IELTS. Successful completion of such exams provides the necessary language qualifications for university and for professional endeavors. Many students view their time with EF as a chance to explore educational alternatives while improving language and study skills. Students wishing to study at university can access information and make informed academic choices through our EF University Placement Service.

A great aspect of an EF program is the variety of nationalities at our schools. We welcome you to join this international community where you’ll experience life and language with EF. We take great pride in our continuing dedication to our mission - breaking down barriers of language and culture.

2. Welcome to the UK! Congratulations on choosing one of the most interesting and varied countries to study in! Britain’s character has been shaped by its position as an island. It has not been successfully invaded since 1066 and its people have developed their own distinctive traditions.

The Roman invasion of AD43 lasted for 350 years and helped bring culture and civilization to the islands. This was soon replaced by the culture and language of the Northern European settlers that followed.

For a small island, Great Britain encompasses much variety in its regions. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland are ruled through London but they remain separate countries from England.

Many have their own regional language as well as English. Even the landscape, architecture and food can vary from region to region, from the mountains of Wales and Scotland to the rolling hills of the south and west and from the haggis of Scotland through to the fish and chips of England.

3. Weather Watch The climate in Oxford is rarely extreme but the weather can be extremely variable. The following temperatures are typical for the Oxford area: Temperatures range from: Spring: 5° to 18°C (41° to 64°F) Summer: 12° to 26°C (54° to 79°F) Autumn: 6° to 22°C (43° to 72°F) Winter: 2° to 12°C (36° to 54°F)

tories. The effect of this can still been seen today with many of Britain’s streets containing small residential terraced housing that was originally built to house the influx of people.

4. Travel & Transfer service

British cities are melting pots for people from all over the world. Since the 1950s hundreds of thousands of immigrants came from the former British colonies in Africa, Asia and the Caribbean.

Oxford, UK

When you are studying you will notice how Britain has changed over the years. While still holding on to traditions such as the Royal family and the legal and Parliamentary systems, Great Britain will offer you the chance to experience varied historical, cultural and vibrant ways of life. We believe that living abroad and learning a language will give you valuable insights into the culture, customs and history of your host country and give you many essential skills to take home.

Over three quarters of the land is set aside for agriculture but during the 19th and 20th centuries there was a huge growth in the urban population.

Britain became the first industrialised nation and thousands of people moved from the countryside to the towns and cities near mines, mills and fac-

The British love their countryside and animals.

There is a great enthusiasm for country and city parks with many wildlife nature reserves across the country. This even extends to the home where many gardens are lovingly tended and it is common to find a cat or dog as a pet.

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This ensured a steady supply of labour into the country. Today nearly 10 per cent of Britain’s 58 million people are from non-white ethnic groups and over half of these were born in Britain. In larger cities such as London, this figure reaches nearly 40 per cent. As a result Britain boasts a wide range of music, art, food and religion - giving you the student exciting new experiences.

Transfer service Arriving at a busy airport in a foreign city can be confusing. EF offers a one-way transfer service from the airport to your accommodation for an additional fee. We highly recommend that you take advantage of this service.

At least one month before your arrival, you must inform the EF Office in your home country of the exact details of your flight (airline, flight number, date and time).

When you arrive you will be met by an EF Representative at the airport and usually transferred with other EF students. When you pass through

customs wait at the arrival area for an EF Representative to meet you. Do not go to another part of the airport unless an EF staff member tells you to. If, after approximately 30 minutes you still have not met with your greeter, go to the information desk and ask for assistance to contact EF on the provided emergency number.

Please note: your local EF office will provide you with important contact information such as an emergency number before your departure.

We would ask you to be extra vigilant on arrival at the airports as there have been a few incidents where students have been picked up by Taxi Touts, who frequently target foreign students.

They convince them they are EF Taxi drivers, drive the students to their destination and then charge them for the transfer telling them that they can then claim this money back from the school.

This is not true, so please make sure that you do not go with any driver who is not holding an EF sign.

Independent transfers If you wish to make your own way to your accommodation, the best route to take depends on which airport you arrive at. ❚❚ From London Heathrow Airport you mcan catch a bus from Terminal 4, or from the central bus stop outside Terminal 2, this will take you to Oxford (students going to the EF Residence are advised to get off the bus at the Oxford Brookes Headington Campus stop just after Headington). ❚❚ From London Gatwick you can catch a bus from outside the North Terminal or the South Terminal, this will take you to Oxford (students going to EF Residence are advised to get off the bus at the Oxford Brookes Headington Campus stop just after Headington). ❚❚ From the Oxford bus station you can take a taxi to your final destination.

5. School Information The School Director is assisted by an accomplished staff of teachers and administrators.

There is also an Activities Coordinator who organises EF activities and excursions.

The school offers the following facilities: ❚❚ Computer rooms for iLab classes and self-study ❚❚ Free Wi-Fi Internet and email access ❚❚ Student lounge

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Oxford, UK

❚❚ Private garden ❚❚ Cafeteria ❚ BBQ ❚❚ Game room and table tennis ❚❚ Fitness room ❚ Coffee bar ❚❚ Interactive student website ❚❚ Noticeboards to tell you what is happening Note: from March 2011 – May 2012 there will be some construction work in one area of the Oxford campus, away from the accommodation.

Services will continue as normal and disruption will be kept to a minimum.

on academic and linguistic level and availability of places. The selection of SPIN classes varies throughout the year and a student may not be able to repeat the same SPIN class. Each lesson is 40 minutes in length.

Class size The average class size is 15 students with a maximum of 17 students.

6. Academics

Class Schedule Classes will be scheduled between 8.30 am and 7.30 pm 5 consecutive days per week and may be in the morning or the afternoon.

EF language courses give students the opportunity to study the English language and the local culture for as long, and with as much intensity, as suits the student and his or her needs.

Peak Summer Season Timetabling During the summer between the first week of July and the third week of August, the school

EF Level Placement Test Within 24-hours after booking your course, you’ll receive your personalized EF username and password for the online EF campus called My EF. Before traveling, you will take the EF Level Placement test online. This test will measure your language level and ability, grammar and listening comprehension abilities. Using your test results, our academic team will place you in one of six different language levels.

As your English language skills become stronger, you will be promoted into the next language level.

You may speak with your teacher if you feel you have been placed into the wrong level.

Orientation During your orientation you will receive your class schedule and other important information about the school and the city. Fun activities are planned to help you meet students and staff.

General English Classes General English classes focus on four skills: speaking, listening, reading and writing. Each lesson is 40 minutes long and also covers grammar, vocabulary and pronunciation.

Special Interest Classes Depending on your course type you may also select a number of special interest (SPIN) classes. SPINs allow you to improve your English through the study of a wide range of subject options. Admission to some of these will depend

is open for classes Monday through Saturday.

Your schedule will be either Monday to Friday or Tuesday to Saturday between the hours of 8.30 am and 7.30 pm. Your timetable will confirm your schedule.

Attendance You are expected to attend all classes. Consistent failure to attend class, for whatever reason, may result in expulsion from the program with no refund of course fees. In order to be eligible for an EF certificate, students are expected to participate in class and must attend at least 80% of all classes.

Please note: EF complies with UK Border Agency regulations regarding periods of absence.

Homework You are expected to complete all assignments set by your teachers in General English and Special Interest classes. If you are taking an examination preparation class you should expect at least one hour of homework per night.

Assessment You will be assessed at regular intervals throughout the course. Assessment is based on attendance, participation, attitude and performance.

Course books As part of your academic program, you’ll be expected to buy the books and classroom materials that you will use in class. The exact number of books that you’ll need is determined by your academic level, progress and choice of special

interest classes. If you wish to buy additional books you may need more money. The books you buy are yours to keep, write in and take home with you for future reference. iLab Learning All English language school courses include six iLab sessions per week. iLab sessions complement and reinforce classroom learning in an interactive online learning environment. Please note: iLab is not included in the EF Basic Course.

Exams You may enrol for several different public examinations during your course. For example, Cambridge, TOEIC and TOEFL exams are all popular with students. These must usually be taken at an external examination centre and booked several months in advance. EF Oxford has recently become a Cambridge Exam Centre, which means you may be able to sit for this exam at the EF Oxford school. You will need to pay fees to register for public exams in the UK. This is typically £50 to £100 for each exam. Advice as to the most appropriate examination to sit will be given to you by your Director of Studies.

Cancellation of course or school transfer If you decide to downgrade, cancel or transfer your course to another EF school within the UK, please talk to our Customer Support team. They will advise you of any transfer charges and visa restrictions.

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Oxford, UK

EF University Placement Service EF International Language Centers offer a university placement service that provides expert advice on applying for university in the UK and Ireland. If you are interested in continuing your studies, you are encouraged to talk with the University Pathways Manager at your school.

University Transfer Credit Through our partnership with Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU), EF students may be eligible to receive university credit for their coursework.

7. Accommodation & Meals Homestay and student residence accommodation is available at the EF Oxford school. During your stay, ask accommodation staff if you have any homestay and residence issues.

Homestay accommodation Students staying in a homestay will have the opportunity to experience British life and also have the chance to practice their new language skills with fluent English speakers. Students who choose homestay accommodation should do so because they want to live in a home environment and interact with the members of the household.

Our homestay hosts choose to host international students because they want to learn about other cultures and people. Students who live in a homestay must respect the family and their home. Likewise, the hosts will respect the student. As you get an in-depth look at British life,

you will realize that British culture is not the same as your culture, and therefore, home life may be quite different.

The relationship between husband and wife, the roles of family members, the relationship with or discipline of children and the relationship with pets are just some examples. If you are openminded about these differences, life in the family will be a great learning experience.

There is no stereotypical family. Hosts may consist of 1) mother and father without children, 2) single mother with children, 3) mother, father and children, 4) retired couple, 5) widowed woman, or 6) single father with children.

EF has two different types of homestay accommodation; Homestay, which has a maximum of four students per house and two students per room; and Homeshare which has up to eight students in one house and two students per room. Homeshare offers a more independent atmosphere and students have less direct contact with the homestay hosts.

You are responsible for all transportation costs to and from the host’s home. You may be placed up to one hour away from the school.

Before you leave your home country, please let your homestay hosts know the date and estimated time of your arrival to ensure they are at home to welcome you when you arrive.

Laundry and Facilities

Your homestay hosts will change your towel and sheets every week. You are responsible for your own clothes. If you want to use your host ’s washing facilities, there will usually be a charge of approximately £4 - £5.

You are responsible for your personal items such as shampoo, conditioner, soap and other items.

In England not all bathrooms have showers – it is very common to just have a bath. You will probably share the bathroom with others. This means that you may need to be flexible about shower and bath times. Very few students have their own bathroom. If you want to take a long time in the bath or shower check to see that nobody else is waiting to use the bathroom.

Always remember to keep your room clean and tidy. Make your bed, and put your belongings away. You are also responsible for cleaning up after snacks and for washing your own dishes after breakfast. It is also polite to help clear the table after dinner.

Telephone and Internet use To call your friends and family you will need to use a prepaid telephone card. Your family can telephone you, but please ask them not to call too late. Remember that you are sharing the telephone with the rest of the people in the home. Do not spend more than 15 minutes on the phone at any time.

Some homestays may have internet access in the home that you can use, but this is not guaranteed and should not be assumed. If available, you may be asked to make a small contribution of approximately £5.

Requests for change Homestay accommodation is booked for your entire course. You may only change homestays for very serious reasons. Requests for change will be considered on an individual basis.

Meals in a homestay Your homestay hosts provide breakfast and dinner Monday to Friday, and all meals on the weekends. You are responsible for your own lunch during the week. Meals will only be provided when you are home to participate. Please be sure to call your hosts if you are going to be late or if you are not going to be home for a meal.

There will be no refund for meals not taken at home with your family.

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Oxford, UK

There is an EF Cafeteria at the school, where you can purchase lunch, snacks, and drinks throughout the day. A small coffee bar is also available for buying drinks and snacks.

Half-board includes breakfast and dinner in the EF cafeteria. The cafeteria also has lunch and snacks that students can buy.

8. Money Matters Residence deposit On arrival at our school you will be required to pay a £100 deposit. This deposit covers such things as lost keys, damage or fines. You will be notified if any deductions from this deposit will need to be made. If there are no deductions made, the whole amount will be refunded at the end of your programme, when you check out of the residence. You will not be able to receive the deposit sooner.

Currency British currency is in pounds sterling (abbreviated to GBP, Great British Pound, or nicknamed quid by the British). The symbol for this currency is £.

The pound is divided into 100 pence (abbreviated as p). If you purchase something that is 95 pence, for example, you will probably be told that the amount is “95 pee” rather than 95 pence.

You will see amounts written this way: “95p” or “£0.95.”

Student residence accommodation The Oxford Campus Residence

Banknotes come in denominations of £5, £10, £20, and £50. They will each be a different size

Some students decide they prefer the independence and convenience of living in the EF student residence, rather than living in a homestay.

The student residence in Oxford is a collection of bright, modern buildings, located on the EF school grounds, close to the Headington town centre, the city centre and many useful amenities such as shops, restaurants and cinemas.

The residence is a non-smoking building. In the residence you’ll have a single or shared bedroom (specified at time of booking). Rooms are arranged in residence blocks with 20-27 rooms per block. Some shared bedrooms have private en suite bathrooms, others use shared facilities.

There are shared bathroom facilities in each of these blocks. Each residence building has a kitchenette with fridge, microwave & kettle where you can prepare your food.

and a different color to allow you to tell them apart more easily. Coins come in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, and 50 pence, as well as 1 and 2 pounds.

You will be living in an international environment and have the opportunity to speak English at all times. Bed linen is provided, but towels are not. You will be responsible for doing your own laundry. We have our own EF staff in residence, so there is always someone available to help you.

The address is: EF International Language Center Pullens Lane - Oxford - OX3 0DT There is a supplementary charge to book residential accommodation. If you would like more information about this option, please call your local EF Representative.

Meals in a student residence Residential students will have half-board daily.

Banks For short stays it is not possible to open a bank account, however It is a good idea to open a bank account if you will be staying more than 6 months. If required you can hire a safety deposit box at a bank, please ask the EF office for advice.

Spending money We recommend that you bring about £100 for your first days in England to cover costs such as travel to school, lunch, and telephone calls. You will also need to take money for learning materials used in class.

We recommend that you bring £100 - £150 for each week you plan to stay in England. This should cover lunches, laundry, travel to and from school, and EF Activities mid-week. For weekend excursions, shopping and depending on what you choose to do during your leisure time, you may need to bring more. Please also remember you will need to pay for any language proficiency exams you plan to take.

Only carry as much money as you need for one day – remember thieves exist everywhere in the world! The safest way to carry money is traveller’s cheques. Many places also accept major credit cards.

Changing money When changing money in the UK always go to a recognised bank or travel agent. Commission rates will vary so check first for the best rate. We regret that we are unable to change money in the school.

Internet The school is equipped with free Wi-Fi wireless Internet. Students are highly encouraged to bring their personal laptop computers for email and Internet use on the wireless network.

10. Health care and Insurance Credit Cards EF strongly recommends that students travel with either a Visa or MasterCard. Credit cards enable you to rent cars, reserve hotel rooms, and do various activities, which may be more difficult with cash or traveller’s cheques.

The EF staff can recommend nearby hospitals and doctors offices if you need medical attention.

Please ask the EF staff or your homestay hosts for assistance if you need medical attention. If you have any personal problems there is always someone who you can talk to confidentially.

9. Telephones, fax & Internet

Insurance All students traveling to the UK are required to have medical and accident insurance upon starting their program of study. You will still have to pay for some treatment if you see a doctor but you can claim the money back from the insurance company. Please note: You will need to keep all receipts in order to receive money back from the insurance company.

Telephone All long distance calls must be collect calls, charged to the person you are calling, or charged to a prepaid telephone card. We recommend that students expecting to stay for a long period of time come with or purchase a mobile phone.

Fax All EF schools use fax machines to conduct business. You can send and receive faxes from this machine for a small fee, although you are encouraged to limit the use. When you receive mail or faxes at the school, they will be put in the student mail rack for you to collect.

There are also some places close to the school that send faxes and charge for the time used.

Ask the front desk for directions to the nearest fax machine you can use.

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Oxford, UK

All students are required to bring proof of insurance in English to show that they have proper health insurance when a medical emergency occurs. Students who do not bring proof of insurance will be required to purchase insurance through EF at the school.

Erika Travel Insurance Because security is EF’s number one priority, we have negotiated a comprehensive tailor-made travel insurance package for EF students with Erika Travel Insurance, an international insurance

expert. The policy protects you against expenses incurred through accident or illness, and provides coverage for loss or theft of baggage and personal effects. It also provides coverage against interruption of your EF program due to illness as well as liability and legal expenses.

The EF staff is trained to assist with your Erika Travel Insurance questions and claims. When you are sick or injured the last thing you want to do is deal with such issues. Let us help you!

11. Activities & Excursions Extracurricular activities contribute greatly to your social and academic success. They not only help you to relax after a day studying, they also provide you with an opportunity to meet and make friends from other classes, other countries and other cultures. Your school’s activities and trips give you the opportunity to apply your life skills, practice English in real situations and familiarize yourself with British culture.

Activity Programme The EF Activities Coordinator arranges a regular schedule of local activities, day-trips, and weekend excursions to area attractions. The cost of these trips is not included in the tuition.

Weekly activities We have a weekly programme of activities (movie nights, quizzes, theatre trips and clubbing) at either no cost or minimal cost. The Activities Coordinator will also organise sports games and tournaments, depending on student interest and participation.

Weekend excursions EF arranges weekend excursions and day trips to local attractions. Not all trips are available each month. The number of trips and the cost depend on the time of year and the number of students wishing to participate. Excursions can be paid in cash, with traveller’s cheques or by credit card.

Our excursions are organised at a minimum cost, are great fun and extremely good value. You are always accompanied by an EF staff member.

Typical activities and excursions Excursions range from day trip to Cambridge, or the Roman City of Bath (cost between £20 - £30) to weekend trips to Edinburgh, Dublin, Amsterdam or Paris (cost between £150 - £170).

Prices are subject to change.

Example of the Oxford activities schedule These activities may differ from those on offer during your stay here with us.

Monday ❚❚ Free walking tour with the Activities Coordinator at 2.30 pm. ❚❚ Welcome Party.

leyball to horse riding, so whatever your interests the EF Activities staff will be more than happy to help. We also have use of local sports facilities, as well as having regular football competitions between the six EF Schools. Whether it’s booking the theatre through one of EF’s ticket agents or finding the best place to hire a car we have the means to help you.

Oxford boasts many museums and art galleries.

Most of the museums and art galleries in Oxford are affiliated with the university and are free to enter. These include the Ashmolean Museum.

Thirty-nine colleges form the University of Oxford, one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world. Many of the college buildings are architecturally stunning and create the unique atmosphere that makes Oxford special. During your stay you might visit University College, Balliol, and Merton - the oldest (established between 1249 and 1264). Magdalen College is one of the most beautiful colleges in Oxford and Christ Church College is the location for Hogwarts Dining Hall in the Harry Potter films.

12. Transportation Tuesday ❚❚ Pool or table tennis competition or night at traditional English pub.

Wednesday ❚❚ Visit to the Ashmolean Museum - Free ❚❚ Live music in town - £5 Thursday ❚❚ Punting afternoon - £10 per hour ❚❚ Theatre evening in London, coach departs at 4 pm - £40 including travel and top price tickets.

Friday ❚❚ Football practice and Evening Movie Night.

Saturday ❚❚ Day trip to Bath and Stonehenge - £30 Sunday ❚❚ Visit Camden market in London and go on the London Eye - £26 Let us help you have fun!

Parties and pub nights are held on a regular basis as well as going to clubs, theatres and musicals. The city has a range of activities from vol-

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Oxford, UK

Public transportation Oxford has an impressive network of buses and trains, providing Oxford with good connections throughout the UK. Buses The Oxford bus system covers the city well and provide a very inexpensive way to travel in Oxford and the surrounding areas. Most buses and coaches depart from the main bus station in Gloucester Green, in the centre of Oxford.

There are bus stops throughout Oxford, with bus timetables and route information.

A weekly bus pass will cost approximately £13 to £20 per week and can be bought on the bus.

This bus pass can be used as often as the student wishes on any city bus route. Please note that these are current prices.

Taxi Taxi cabs are a convenient way to travel around the Oxford area and are usually reasonably priced. They can be found at the taxi ranks outside of the Oxford train station, Oxford bus stations, on St. Giles, George Street and St. Aldates. Taxis can also be ordered by telephone.

Additional taxi costs could be charged for luggage, travel late at night, extra passengers and travel on public holidays.

Bicycles Oxford is a city famous for its bikes, renting and buying a bicycle is a cheaper and healthier transport option. Local transport routes are cycle friendly and there are many parks and cycle paths if you prefer to avoid the road. EF has special deals with some local bike shops, please ask the staff for more information.

Trains Oxford’s train station is located in Botley Road, close to the nearby bus station and Oxford city centre. The Oxford train station links to an excellent network of trains that travel throughout the country. Advance seat reservations can be booked if required and bike racks are available outside of Oxford train station.

Transportation from accommodation to school You are responsible for all transportation costs to and from your accommodation. All our homestays live near a bus route, which will bring you to the school. The longest time the journey should take is one hour. Your hosts will tell you which bus to take. If you are living in the EF residence, a member of staff will show you how to get to the school.

13. Expectations Expectations are a normal part of anticipating a new experience. Remember that many of your expectations may have been formed by the unreal world of TV and movies. Arrive at your course centre with an open mind!

What you can expect from EF: zS upportive staff for guidance & encouragement. zA n academic program combining language, special interest, and culture-oriented classes. zF ull program of local activities and excursions at special EF rates. zA ccommodation in either homestay or student residence. zA ll designated meals. zE F Academic Year Abroad Diploma for Academic Year Abroad students with 80% attendance per term and good academic standing and academic records zE F Course Certificate for International Language Students with 80% attendance and good

academic standing. zP reparation classes and/or materials for appropriate standardized language exams and availability of University Placement Service (UPS).

What EF expects of you: zT o develop a greater understanding of the world around you. zT o attend at least 80% of all classes and to do your best in class at all times. zT o be respectful of your homestay hosts, your classmates, your teachers and your community. zT o keep your room and shared areas clean. zT o speak English at all times. zT o abide by all laws, rules and regulations of your host country, state, campus and school.

What you can expect from your homestay hosts: ❚❚ A comfortable, clean place to live.

Food British food today has influences from abroad introducing a wider range of ingredients and more adventurous cooking. While still maintaining its love of more traditional dishes, Britain now has one of the widest selections of restaurants in the world.

❚❚ Prepared meals or accessibility to food to prepare yourself according to the meal plan. ❚❚ Access to the school in approximately one hour by public transportation. All transportation costs are your responsibility.

Do’s and Don’ts You will be required to abide by national laws as well as the rules of the EF school. Violations will lead to a verbal warning and possible disciplinary action by the School Director.

14. UK culture & living tips

The following are illegal in Great Britain: z D rugs (non-medicinal) zA lcohol if you are under 18 years old zB uying tobacco if you are under 18 (or buying for someone who is under 18) zS moking law - no smoking in public buildings.

Please note that smoking is against the law in all public, enclosed and semi-enclosed spaces in the UK. zS hop-lifting zD riving without insurance or a valid driving license zO ffensive weapons (including pocket knives) Please don’t break the law. If you do, you will almost certainly be sent straight home on the next available flight and you may even risk being sent to prison.

Visas You may need to obtain a visa before setting out on your journey if you are not a European Community national. Check with your EF office and local British Consulate well before you start your journey.

Working in the UK All EU passport holders are entitled to work in the UK without restrictions. If you have a Tier 4 General Student visa you are able to work up to 20 hours per week. This does not apply if you come to the UK as a Student Visitor. The same rules apply for students wishing to participate in an internship during their course. If you want the possibility of working or doing an internship make sure you apply for the right visa.

Customs Read the customs notices carefully. Do not try to bring any prohibited substances into the country.

We cannot help you if you are stopped by customs for illegal importation of anything which is against the law in Great Britain.

Immigration If you are not a European Community national, you will need to produce the following docu-

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ments when you arrive in Great Britain. ❚❚ your passport (valid for at least six months after the end of your EF course). ❚❚ appropriate visa for your stay ❚❚ proof of your ability to meet the cost of the course, to maintain yourself and any dependents without needing to work during your stay. ❚❚ your EF confirmation letter showing that you have enrolled for a full time course of study.

Oxford, UK

Travel outside of England If you are planning to travel outside England during your course you may need a visa. Please ensure that you check any visa requirements before you leave your country to avoid disappointment.

If your passport has a single entry visa and you are studying for six months or less then you will not be able to travel outside the UK. This visa cannot be changed in the UK. It is strongly

recommended that you apply for a Schengen Visa before leaving your home country if possible.

This will give you free travel throughout many European countries without the need to apply for individual tourist visas in the UK. Tipping Tipping is customary for taxi drivers and in restaurants where no service charge is added to the bill. 10% is normally acceptable. In restaurants where service is included, bars, pubs and cafes, there is no need to leave a tip.

Appliances and electricity Remember that the mains voltage in Great Britain is 220-240. You may need to bring an adaptor if you wish to use any of your own electrical appliances.

Recommended reading ❚❚ Lonely Planet Britain, Lonely Planet Publications, Ltd. Great user-friendly travel guide for where to go, how to get around, where to stay and what to eat.

Recommended websites ❚❚ www.visitoxford.org ❚❚ www.dailyinfo.co.uk ❚❚ www.itchyoxford.co.uk

15. Adjusting to a New Culture The EF community is more than a group of students who have come together to learn English.

It is also a multi-cultural group of young adults who are eager to share their own culture and learn the culture of their host country and fellow classmates.

One’s culture is made up of values, beliefs, arts, traditions and practices of a specific community or population. Our culture affects how we view ourselves, how we relate to others and what we value as important in life. We are often unaware of how much our culture affects our lives.

You may have already had some exposure to the new culture you are about to experience. You may have seen television shows, read books, or studied in school about the UK. While some parts of this culture may already seem familiar to you, experiencing a new culture first-hand will prove exciting.

You will be meeting students from all over the

world who, like you, are looking forward to spending a year learning and living a language, both inside and outside the classroom.

As a visitor to a new culture, you may experience periods of fatigue and discomfort when you are uncomfortable. Culture shock is what sometimes happens when we try to meet challenges of our new culture by using the values, beliefs, and attitudes of our own culture. As visitors to a new culture, we must learn that cultural differences are merely different - not right or wrong.

Bring traditional objects from your culture to share with other students and your host to teach them about your country.

Tips on coping with change Remember that change does not come without some effort! We humans need a certain amount of stress to motivate us to learn new ways of being. Learning always involves some form of change. You should try the following: zW hile you might be tempted to surround yourself with things that are familiar to you, try not to isolate yourself by being only with others from your home country. Keep reaching out to your host, roommates and other students. zP ut off making major decisions such as an

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Oxford, UK

accommodation change, until you feel more “at home” with the culture in general.

back on in days and years to come.

Be sure to note changes in:

zT alk to us about your worries or problems. EF Staff are here to help and would prefer to know about any problem you may have so that we can help you. zS et goals, no matter how big or small, and accomplish them! You will feel good about yourself in doing so, and you will reduce the negative feelings associated with culture shock.

For example, set a goal that you will speak English at all times. zR emind yourself that you came to this country to experience a new culture, to meet others and to explore your new surroundings. Relax, take a deep breath and reflect back on the days before leaving your home country when you were excited about your new adventure. Try to refocus this former excitement towards your experience.

Keeping a journal One way to keep track of emotions and changes that take place over the year is to keep a journal.

By recording your experiences and feelings on a regular basis, you will be able to reduce the impact of culture shock. You will have a record of your academic and personal progress to look

zL anguage skills zS chool performance and involvement zC ampus/host adjustment z I ndividual learning and growth Keeping a journal will help to remind you that culture shock is truly a temporary phase of adjustment.

Bring pictures and items from home If you have room in your suitcases for some music, a costume, pictures, or some typical crafts, it would be good to show other students, as well as to decorate your room to make it seem like home. We have seen costumes and drums from Korea, dancing and music from Austria and a piñata and tortillas from Mexico. Please bring pictures of your friends, family and surrounding area.

16. EF School Calendar Academic Year Schedule The Academic Year is divided into three terms.

(See the applicable start date below for your program’s specific term and break schedule).

January 2012 Academic Year and Semester Program Orientation: Fri 6 Jan - Sun 8 Jan Term 1: Mon 9 Jan - Fri 9 Mar Holiday: Sat 10 Mar - Sun 25 Mar Term 2: Mon 26 Mar - Fri 1 Jun Semester Departure: 2 Jun 2012 Holiday: Sat 2 Jun - Sun 10 Jun Term 3: (Year) Mon 11 Jun - Fri 17 Aug Departure: 18 Aug 2012 April 2012 Academic Year and Semester Program Orientation: Fri 13 Apr - Sun 15 Apr Term 1: Mon 16 Apr - Fri 1 Jun Holiday: Sat 2 Jun - Sun 10 Jun Term 2: Mon 11 Jun - Fri 7 Sep Semester Departure: 8 Sep 2012 Holiday: Sat 8 Sep - Sun 23 Sep Term 3: (Year) Mon 24 Sep - Fri 30 Nov Departure: 1 Dec 2012

School holidays The EF International Language Centers in the UK recognize the following public holidays when there will be no classes. If your arrival falls on one of these dates, please check with the school staff upon your arrival for an exact orientation schedule.

2012 1 January - New Year’s Day 6 April - Good Friday 9 April - Easter Monday 7 May - Early May Bank Holiday 4 June - Spring Bank Holiday 5 June - Queen’s Diamond Jubilee 27 August - Summer Bank Holiday 25 December - Christmas Day 26 December - Boxing Day 2013 1 January - New Year’s Day 29 March - Good Friday 1 April - Easter Monday 6 May - Early May Bank Holiday 27 May - Spring Bank Holiday 26 August - Summer Bank Holiday 25 December - Christmas Day 26 December - Boxing Day

September 2012 Academic Year and Semester Program Orientation: Fri 21 Sep - Sun 23 Sep Term 1: Mon 24 Sep - Fri 14 Dec Holiday: Sat 15 Dec - Sun 6 Jan Term 2: Mon 7 Jan - Fri 8 Mar Semester Departure: 9 Mar 2013 Holiday: Sat 9 Mar - Sun 24 Mar Term 3: (Year) Mon 25 Mar - Fri 31 May Departure:

Holiday: Term 3: (Year) Departure:

Sat 8 Jun - Sun 16 Jun Mon 17 Jun - Fri 16 Aug 17 Aug 2013

■■ Valid passport (with visa where necessary) It’s a good idea to make copies of these and pack them in your suitcase just in case. You don’t need to carry your passport with you while you are in the UK but you must keep it and your other documents in a safe place while you are in the country.

■■ All original documents submitted for your visa application, if you are travelling on an Adult student visa (Tier 4).

■■ Passport Photos (4) for EF student identification cards, travel cards and other possible documents ■■ Flight ticket ■■ Luggage correctly labeled ■■ E F Confirmation letter & other EF documents ■■ M ake sure all EF forms are complete, especially the Health Certificate ■■ Medical and travel insurance documents with proof of insurance in English, if you have secured Erika Travel Insurance from EF, you do not need to have anything translated.

■■ Basic medical supplies, any medication you take regularly and a spare pair of contact lenses or glasses if you wear them.

1 June 2013

January 2013 Academic Year and Semester Program Orientation: Fri 4 Jan - Sun 6 Jan Term 1: Mon 7 Jan - Fri 8 Mar Holiday: Sat 9 Mar - Sun 24 Mar Term 2: Mon 25 Mar - Fri 7 Jun Semester Departure: 8 Jun 2013

17. Checklist

Important telephone numbers Homestay host’s or student residence name:

■■ An International Driving License if you are planning on hiring or buying a car.

■■ Local currency for first week and for any learning materials that are not included in the cost of the course.

________________________________________ Homestay host’s or student residence address:

________________________________________

■■ Money in the form of an ATM card (Automatic Transaction Card), credit cards and/or traveler’s checks (Do NOT bring large amounts of cash in any currency!).

Homestay host’s or student residence telephone number(s):

■■ Electric adaptor for any electrical appliances you plan to bring with you. ________________________________________ EF Sales Office telephone number:

■■ Pencil and/or pen and notebook.

________________________________________

■■ Items from your hometown or country so you can share your culture with friends, homestay hosts and teachers.

EF School telephone number:

+(44) 1865 759660 ________________________________________ EF School emergency telephone number:

Please note: there will be no classes on public holidays.

+(44) 7900 683430 ________________________________________

■■ Personal sports equipment.

■■ Favorite books, photos and a camera.

■■ Homestay or student residence details and emergency numbers.