• Learning English while studying in the UK

Sometimes I see applications from some bright students but with a very low level of English. They usually claim that they will easily and quickly learn English when they arrive. Unfortunately, it can be more difficult then you expect: you need English not just for your work but also to adapt to a new country - you need to communicate with your advisor, colleagues, new friends; you need to communicate socially outside work. Otherwise, you can end up being excluded socially and this can be very difficult to cope with. So, please, try to become fluent in English before leaving your country - try to listen to English radio, TV each day; read newspapers (technical and non-technical); find people whom you can regularly practice English with. Knowing English fluently will "open" all doors for you in the World ;) ...

• Long time to get passport back from the Home Office

Sometimes it may take a very long time to get your passport back from the Home Office when you renew your visa or change your status (even more than a year in some cases). It is generally impossible to speed-up this process by calling HO, even if you need to travel for conferences, present your work, have collaborations or have some important personal issues. In such cases, if you have support from your advisor and a head of the department, you may contact your local MP and carefully explain your situation. If your case is reasonable, MP can usually help by contacting HO directly. Good luck!