Updated:

Summer 2026 New Student Orientation

Joining us for summer session starting 18 May 2026?

This page will help you prepare for your arrival in London. Please check it regularly as we will be updating content as get closer to your arrival date.

Join us for a Pre-Arrival Webinar

Wednesday, 15 April 2026, 4pm GMT
Meeting ID: 844 0912 1014
Passcode: 217059

We’ll cover visas, arrivals and expectations. You’ll also have the opportunity to meet our international programmes and student support teams who will be your main point of contact on your arrival to London.

We’ll send out the link to your personal emails closer to the time.

    What can I do before I arrive to prepare?

    1. If you are joining us for an internship this summer, get your documents together and apply for your visa. You’ll need a CAS (confirmation of acceptance of studies) from our admissions office to do this. If you are coming for a 3-week course, you will need to apply for an ETA (electronic travel authorisation) before you depart.
    2. Sign on to your University email account. Richmond uses MS Office 365. You will have been sent details of how to log in to your account to start receiving emails at your richmond.ac.uk account.
    3. Check out our Blackboard course. Blackboard is the University’s virtual learning environment. You’ll be using it to access resources and submit work. We’re giving you a chance to familiarise yourself with it through an orientation course.
    4. Sign in to your Richmond RIO Portal to see your registration and update your personal details.
    5. Join our WhatsApp Communications Group for summer students.
    6. Don’t forget to purchase travel insurance for your journey/stay.

    What should I pack?

    London weather is very changeable, so we suggest layers and definitely some waterproof gear! If you are taking part in an internship, you’ll need to bring some business casual clothing and some comfortable footwear. Commuting in London can involve walking through a lot of stations.
    If you plan to bring electronic equipment, please remember that voltage is different in the UK. You’ll need a converter that will work with your devices. For laptops, it’s often best to ask the manufacturer what they recommend. If you take medication regularly, be sure to bring enough with you to cover your entire stay.

    What will my accommodation be like?

    All rooms at Stay Club are studio flats which means you are the only occupant of the room and within your space, you have your own bathroom and a small kitchen. There will be lots of opportunities to socialise in the common spaces outside of your room, however. Stay Club has a gym, cinema room, roof top terrace and a cafe in addition to common spaces on each floor. Keep in mind, Richmond has a resident director living in the building to support you. If you have questions, concerns or you’d just like someone to talk to, please get in contact.

    What does the summer calendar look like?

    For 6-week students:
    Arrival at Stay Club, Sunday 17 May
    Internships start 18 May, classes start the same week
    Internships & classes end on 26 June

    For 3-week students:
    Arrival at Stay Club, Sunday 7 June
    Classes start Monday 8 June
    Classes end on 26 June