Ipswich is a port town in England popular for a variety of things. Many people from around the world visit Ipswich for varied purposes. One of the reasons why many individuals visit this town is higher education. We can see a big crowd of international students in the institutes in Ipswich.
Here, we will provide an ultimate guide for students in Ipswich in 2024.
Academic Life
University of Suffolk – this is the name of the university located in Suffolk. In the Guardian University Guide 2024, it has been ranked #68 out of 122 universities. The university boasts excellent libraries and laboratories as well as other research facilities. Moreover, the university has highly experienced and qualified professors and lecturers.
You get a variety of academic experiences while studying at the University of Suffolk.
- Teaching and learning
An innovative teaching style, known as Block and Blend, can be witnessed at the University of Suffolk. It is an innovative style of teaching that helps students understand each module and subject area and improves student attainment.
- Work-based learning
The university has strong partnerships with a variety of sectors. Its work-based learning is an integral part of all programs.
- Academic Schools
There are different academic schools in the university. All schools have their own expertise and ethos.
- Student Support
The dedicated Student Life team in the university supports international students with all aspects of university life. It provides different courses to students for their support such as free English language and academic writing classes.
- Career Counseling
The university also boasts a career counselling service to help students secure part-time jobs. These part-time jobs can be helpful for students in managing their expenses and getting a great experience for their future.
- Student Ambassador Scheme
There is also a Student Ambassador Scheme that provides students with paid work experience.
Student Life
You can enjoy an excellent student life while living in Ipswich. Find different student organizations in the universities based on different themes. You can join any of them as per your eligibility and interest, which can be helpful for your future career. Different events and activities are also organized in the university from time to time. Sports activities are also organized for all students.
Furthermore, there is a dedicated Student Life team, which provides support to students in different areas.
Things to Do and See
Ipswich has numerous landmarks, which you can visit during your academic years. Besides, there are a lot of other things to do for students here. Some popular things to do in Ipswich are:
1. Visit Christchurch Park & Mansion.
2. Explore Ipswich Waterfront.
3. Attend events at the Cornhill and Town Centre.
4. Visit Ipswich Museum and Art Gallery.
5. Explore the Suffolk food scene.
6. Go for a day trip to Flatford and Dedham Vale.
7. Join student clubs and societies.
8. Catch a show at The New Wolsey Theatre.
9. Go shopping in Ipswich.
10. Enjoy nightlife and socializing.
11. Visit gyms and fitness centres like Ipswich Gymnastics Centre, PureGym, and Goals Ipswich.
12. Explore surrounding areas.
13. Participate in volunteering opportunities.
14. Visit Suffolk Wildlife Trust Reserves.
15 Play football matches at Portman Road, home to Ipswich Town FC.
Getting Around
There are different ways to get around in Ipswich. Buses are the popular options to roam inside Ipswich and visit nearby areas. Besides, Ipswich Railway Station is the main train station of the town. You can visit the cities and towns like London, Cambridge, Norwich, Felixstowe, and Lowestoft via train. Taxis and ride-sharing options are also available in the town.
Besides, Ipswich is a compact and bike-friendly town. Walking and cycling are also good options to get around in the town.
Visa and Immigration
There are different types of visas that students can get. Student visa (Tier-4) Visa, Short-Term Study Visa, and Graduate Visa (previously Post-Study Work Visa) are the three types of visas among which you can choose as per your requirements.
You can get a student visa for a normal course. For this, you need to receive an offer letter from your institution like the University of Suffolk. A short-term study visa is designed for students who study short-term courses of 6-11 months, usually language courses. You can get a graduate visa after completing your degree to stay in the UK for two or three years to work or look for employment.
Tips for International Students
Finally, here, are some tips for international students in Ipswich.
1. Search for student accommodation in Ipswich early through online sources to get your preferred and budget-friendly accommodation.
2. Decide carefully what to pack to start your journey to Ipswich.
3. Don’t forget to keep the clothes according to Ipswich’s weather.
4. Keep essential medicines with you.
5. Know about the cost of living in Ipswich to manage your expenses properly.
Conclusion
Ipswich offers excellent academic life to international with wonderful facilities, innovative teaching style, and work-based learning. It also has an amazing student life with wonderful student clubs and associations. Students can also enjoy visiting the significant landmarks and fun places in Ipswich. They can get around in and outside the town via buses, trains, taxis, and ride-sharing. Walking and cycling are also the best ways to get around in the town.
Students can get a student visa, short-term study visa, or graduate visa to live in Ipswich. Before visiting Ipswich, students should book accommodation, pack the necessary things carefully, and learn about the cost of living in the town.
Read more: Challenges & Opportunities of Studying in Edinburgh
