International Students

Make the most of student life

University life isn’t just about lectures, studying and exams. The GCU Students’ Association offers plenty of opportunities for you to get involved in a wide range of activities, try new things and meet new people. Many of the activities we offer look great on your CV and help improve your employability after you graduate.

Find out more about the Student's Association.

Take part in Freshers’ Week

At the beginning of term, Fresher’s Week lets you explore everything the university has to offer, and have a lot of fun at the same time. There are lots of welcome talks and ‘Give it a Go’ sessions that let you sample activities and make new friends.

Join a society

Societies are a great chance for you to meet like-minded people, develop existing interests and try new things. You can even start your own society! Many International Students join the International Student Society, which organises lots of social events and outings during the year. It's a great way to meet and mix with other international students.

The university’s award winning international student support service also organises a year-round programme of social events for students, their friends and families. On campus events include weekly social evenings and regular bingo nights.

Other societies include:

• Christian Union
• CUMSA (Muslim Students Association)
• International Students
• Law
• Occupational Therapy
• Paintball

View a full list of societies.

Join a sports club

Our sports clubs cater for all levels from beginner to elite athletes, so you’re bound to find something for you. Sports club members enjoy access to subsidised competition, coaching, first aid courses, equipment, training events, free entry to all fitness classes in the Arc, and much more. Sports clubs include:

• Athletics
• Football
• Kayaking
• Rugby
• Snowboarding
• Volleyball
  

View a full list of sports clubs.

Become a student rep

You could help to improve other students’ learning experience by becoming a student representative and sitting on a variety of committees. It’s a great way to pick up some training in new skills and meet people outside of your course. Student reps also get to participate in the Annual Student Summit and Caledonian Conference.

Volunteer

Why not get involved in something outside your course and take part in volunteering activities? There are opportunities in several areas, including:

Student Welfare: Receive professional training and help promote health and wellbeing to fellow students.

Raising and Giving (RAG): Get involved with RAG and have fun whilst raising money for good causes.

Student magazine: Join the Re:Union editorial team to write and edit the monthly student magazine. It’s a great way to hone your communication skills.

Campus radio: Join our new campus radio station, Caley FM. There are opportunities in presenting, advertising, marketing, music and gig reviews, news and features, and much more.

Nightline: Volunteer at Nightline, our confidential student listening and information service which offers support to students throughout the night, Monday to Thursday during term time.

Find out more about volunteering at Caledonian.

Part-time employment

Overseas students are able to work up to 20 hours a week during term-time and, although there is no guarantee of a job, many students take this opportunity to earn some spending money. The city offers students varied work opportunities, mostly in the retail sector – in shops, cafes, bars, cinemas, bars and restaurants – where you can work during weekends and evenings and expect to earn around £5 - £6 per hour. 

Religion/ places of worship

Glasgow is a very diverse city, and is home to places of worship for people from a variety of religions, including Christians, Islamics, Hindus, Sikhs, Jews and Buddhists.  The university includes a list local of places of worship in our ‘Guide to Glasgow’ student welcome pack, which all students receive on arrival.