This page provides information on a small range of frequently asked questions. Do feel free to contact us on any issue that affects you whilst you are studying at Salford. Click on the questions below to view the answers.
Financial Issues
Q. Where do I pick up my student loan/grant?
You’ll get your student loan or grant after you register on your course at the start of term. Your money will be deposited directly into your bank account after the University sends Student Finance England confirmation of your attendance. You should look on the Student Finance England website to find out the best way to apply for this.
Q. What if I’m still experiencing financial difficulties despite having received my loan and grant?
You should contact Student Life in University House. You may be eligible for an Access to Learning Grant. Priority is given to students with children, disabled students, those who have left care and final year students.
International Issues
Q Where can I get the relevant form and advice to renew my visa?
There is support available from Student Life in University House. The Students' Union Advice Centre in University House can also help with issues affecting your visa.
Q. How can I meet other international students as well as other students? Is there any support available?
If you want to meet other international students you may be interested in the following:
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The International Society(www.internationalsociety.org.uk) - The International Society Desk is located in the foyer of University House. The Desk is open from 11- 3pm. You can book onto a variety of trips and events
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HOST (www.hostuk.org.uk)
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Join a Student Activity Group or take part in our Give it a Go Programme. This is a great way to meet people with similar interests and hobbies. For more information visit the Student Activities section of the website (www.salfordstudents.com/giag) Alternatively pop into University House and ask to speak to one of the Student Activities Team. The sabbatical officers at the Union will also be providing opportunities for groups of students to talk about their issues and experiences throughout the year. Check the website regularly for more details.
Q. I want to visit some local places of interest. Is there an organization I can use to help me to do this?
As mentioned above, why not try our Give it a Go Programme. We are recently visited Chester Zoo and Alton Towers and have lots more planned. You can also take advantage of the International Society Programme of trips.
Academic Issues
Q. What if I have an issue which affects my studies?
You should try to speak to your personal tutor in the first instance and let them know about it. It may be that you have Personal Mitigating Circumstances (PMC) and need to submit a form with your assignment. More information is available on the Academic Issues section of the website. There is an Academic Adviser in the Students' Union Advice Centre who you can speak to. If it is an issue which is affecting more people than just you, you may want to contact your student representative, for more information check out the details on the Student Representation section of the website
Q What do I do if I need to make an Academic Appeal or I am asked to withdraw from my course?
Contact the Students' Union Advice Centre in University House and speak to the Academic Adviser as soon as possible. You can only submit an appeal once you have received your official notification of marks from the Board of Examiners. You have 10 working days in which to submit an appeal.
Q What do I do if I think I have chosen the wrong course?
As soon as possible go and speak to your personal tutor and/or seek advice from the Academic Adviser in the Advice Centre. The Careers Service in Student Life will also be able to support you through this process. Remember, you should also let Student Finance England know about any changes to your course.
Q If I make a complaint will it affect my marks or will my tutor treat me differently?
It shouldn’t affect either your marks or the way the member of staff treats you. If you are intimidated in any way speak to someone in the Students’ Union Advice Centre.
Q What happens if I don’t submit an assignment?
Non-submission of work is very serious and may result in you failing the programme. If you fail a module having not submitted the final piece of assessment for that module then you are not necessarily entitled to any further opportunities to undertake the assignment and you may be asked to withdraw from the programme (unless the University grants you an exemption from this regulation). Seek further advice from Advice Centre.
Housing/Accommodation
Q Where do I get my Council Tax Exemption Certificate?
You can request one from the Student Life Desk at University House.
Q Where should I go if I'm having problems with my University accommodation?
Contact the Advice Centre in University House and they will deal with any complaint or problems you may have. Alternatively you may want to speak to your Resident Life Officer.
Q Where can I find suitable private housing?
Manchester Student Homes (MSH) - a company which specialises in student accommodation and who deals with reputable letting agencies and landlords in the Salford and Manchester areas. You can find more information on the accommodation section of the website or Visit the MSH site (www.manchesterstudenthomes.com/students/housingguide) for advice and to find student properties. You could also try the Landlord Accreditation Society
Q What can I do if I am having problems with my landlord?
Depending on what the problem is, you can either contact the Advice Centre; Manchester Student Homes directly on msh@manchester.ac.uk or log onto their website Manchester Student Homes; your nearest Citizens Advice Bureau; or Shelter (http://england.shelter.org.uk/get_advice)
Health
Q Where is the University Health Centre?
The Health Centre is located on the 3rd floor, Maxwell Building. You can register here or with any other NHS practice closer to where you live.
Q. Can I get help with the costs of prescriptions as a student?
As a student you may be entitled to full or partial exemption (on the grounds of low income) from prescription, dental and optical charges. You can apply for a certificate that entitles you to receive free or reduced cost treatment including NHS prescriptions, NHS dental treatment, sight tests, glasses and contact lenses. Most UK, EU and international students are eligible. To claim exemption you need to complete a HC1 application form, which is available from the Students' Union Advice Centre in University House.
Q Where can I get Counselling?
Speak to someone on a Student Life helpdesk located in University House, Allerton and the Adelphi Building.
