International Orientation Day is on Friday 25 September 2026. Welcome and Orientation Week will commence on Monday 28 September 2026.
This free service is available to new first year international students arriving at Newcastle Airport on 23 and 24 September 2026.
If you don’t have British (or Irish) nationality and you're planning to travel to the UK to study at Durham University, you may need to apply for a visa before you travel. The type of visa / permission you need depends on the course you're coming to study.
There are lots of local shops, so you can buy most of what you need when you arrive in Durham with us. We advise you to bring no more than two suitcases.
If you're a new first year international student arriving at Newcastle Airport on Wednesday 23 or 24 September 2026, you can book our free Meet and Greet service. We'll greet you at the airport and guide you to your transport, which will take you to your college or private accommodation.
Check everything you need to know before you arrive, including the actions you need to take and guidance on how best to prepare for your first few weeks in Durham. You can also use our online planner to view the induction events for your course and College during Welcome Week.
Moving to the UK to study is an exciting time. Discover more about what it's like to live in Durham and the UK, read blogs by current international students about their experiences, and learn more about the support available at the University.
There's plenty to do in and around Durham during your time with us. You can get involved in our student enrichment and sports activities, enjoy Durham's range of coffee shops and restaurants, visit local attractions, and attend local events.
Our free airport pick-up service for new pre-sessional students took place on Saturday 4 July 2026 for the 10-week programme and on Saturday 1 August 2026 for the 6-week programme.