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STUDENT
HANDBOOK
2019/20
SOAS
University of London
Contents
Please note that this table of contents is hyperlinked. To quickly access any section of this Handbook
click on the relevant heading.
1. Contents.............................................................................2
2. Student Handbook....................................................................6
3. Welcome to SOAS.....................................................................7
4. Your School.........................................................................8
4.1. Mission and Values..........................................................8
4.2. Student Charter.............................................................9
Respect...................................................................9
Engagement................................................................9
Support...................................................................9
Communication.............................................................9
5. On Being a Student at SOAS.........................................................10
5.1. Student Code of Conduct....................................................10
5.2. Dignity@SOAS Policy........................................................10
5.2.1. Report and Support................................................10
5.3. Faith, Spiritual Practice and Prayer Rooms.................................10
5.4. Student Central as part of the University of London........................11
5.5. Your Contact Details.......................................................11
6. Your Learning......................................................................12
6.1. The Bloomsbury Learning Environment (BLE)..................................12
6.1.1. Finding and Signing into the BLE..................................12
6.1.2 Navigating the BLE Homepage........................................12
6.1.3. Module Information on BLE.........................................13
6.2 Module Signup...............................................................13
6.2.1. New Students......................................................13
6.2.2. Returning Students................................................14
6.3. Timetabling................................................................14
6.4. Types of Teaching and Learning.............................................14
6.5. Assessments and Assignments................................................15
6.6. Coursework.................................................................15
6.7. Exams......................................................................15
6.8. Results, Academic Transcripts and Certificates.............................16
6.8.1. Results...........................................................16
6.8.2. Academic Transcripts and Certificates.............................16
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6.9. Anonymous Marking.............................................................16
6.10. Feedback and Evaluation......................................................16
6.10.1. Coursework Feedback.................................................16
6.10.2. Examinations Feedback...............................................17
6.11. Marking Criteria.............................................................17
6.12. Online and Distance Learning.................................................18
6.13. Year Abroad..................................................................18
6.14. Summer School................................................................19
6.15. SOAS Language Centre.........................................................19
6.15.1. Language Centre Contact Information, Social Media and Visiting Address.... 19
6.16. Widening Participation: International Mobility initiatives..........................19
7. Study Support..........................................................................21
7.1. The Centre for Innovation in Learning and Teaching (CILT).....................21
7.1.1. Study Skills........................................................21
7.2. Academic Advisers.............................................................21
7.3. Mitigating Circumstances......................................................22
7.3.1. How to Submit a Mitigating Circumstances Application.................22
7.4. Interrupting, Changing or Withdrawing from your Course.................22
7.5. Fitness to Study Procedure....................................................23
8. Student Support........................................................................24
8.1. Student Support and Guidance..................................................24
8.2. Identifying Problems and Pathways of Student Support..........................24
8.3. The Weston Student Hub.......................................................24
8.3.1. Where is the Hub?....................................................25
8.3.2. Opening Hours and Contact Information................................25
8.3.3. Drop-in Sessions.....................................................25
8.3.4. Student Letters......................................................25
8.4. Fees and Scholarships.........................................................25
8.4.1. Tuition Fees.........................................................25
8.4.2. Scholarships.........................................................26
8.5. Student Advice and Wellbeing (SAaW)...........................................26
8.5.1. Contact Information..................................................26
8.5.2. Student Advice and Wellbeing (SAaW) Services.........................26
8.6. The SOAS Careers Service......................................................28
8.6.1. Contact Information..................................................28
8.6.2. Opening Hours........................................................28
8.6.3. Careers Services.....................................................28
8.6.4. After You Have Graduated.............................................29
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8.7. Healthcare..............................................................29
8.7.1. General Health.................................................29
8.7.2. Sexual Health..................................................30
8.8. Emergency Contacts and Useful Resources.................................30
999 - The main emergency Number.......................................30
112 - Another emergency number........................................30
101 - The non-emergency number for the police.........................30
111 - The non-emergency medical number................................30
What if I require multiple emergency services?........................31
If you have no signal on your phone, you may still be able to make an emergency call.
...........................................................................31
9. The Students' Union......................................................................32
9.1. Key Contacts and Social Media...................................................32
9.2. Representation..................................................................32
9.3. Student Representatives.........................................................32
9.4. Getting Involved................................................................32
9.4.1. Sports and Societies...................................................33
9.4.2. The Junior Common Room (JCR) and the Students' Union Shop and Bar......33
9.4.3. The SOAS Spirit........................................................33
9.4.4. The Students' Union App................................................33
10. Student Feedback and Surveys............................................................34
10.1. What is student feedback and why is it important?..............................34
10.2. How will I be required to provide feedback throughout my studies?..............34
10.3. Student Surveys Timeline at SOAS...............................................36
11. Graduation and Graduating from SOAS.....................................................37
12. IT Systems..............................................................................38
12.1. Connecting to the Wi-Fi at SOAS................................................38
12.2. Signing into the Computers at SOAS.............................................38
12.3. Using Your Email Account.......................................................38
12.4. Printing and Scanning at SOAS..................................................38
12.5. The IT Service Desk............................................................39
12.5.1. Opening Times and Contact Information.................................39
13. Estates and Facilities..................................................................40
13.1. Finding SOAS...................................................................40
13.2. Getting to SOAS by Tube and Train..............................................40
13.3. Getting to SOAS by Bus.........................................................41
13.4. Getting to SOAS by Road........................................................41
13.5. The SOAS Estate Room Key.......................................................41
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13.6. Map of Estate and Facilities..................................................43
13.7. The Library...................................................................44
13.7.1 Term Time Opening Hours............................................44
13.8. The Brunei Gallery............................................................44
13.8.1. Opening Times and Admissions.........................................44
13.9. Japanese Roof Garden..........................................................45
13.9.1. Opening Times and Admission..........................................45
13.10. SOAS Bookshop................................................................45
13.11. Paul Webley Wing, Senate House...............................................45
13.12. SOAS Radio...................................................................46
13.13. The Refectory................................................................46
13.14. Estates and Facilities Department............................................46
13.15. Security.....................................................................46
14. Rules and Regulations..................................................................47
14.1. Student Complaints Procedure..................................................47
14.2. Academic Appeals Policy.......................................................47
14.3. Attendance Policy.............................................................47
14.4. Plagiarism and Academic Misconduct............................................47
14.5. Degree Regulations Policies and Procedures....................................47
14.6. Student Health and Safety Guidelines..........................................48
15. Student Data Protection Statement......................................................49
Appendix A: Useful Contacts.................................................................50
Appendix B: External Support and Contacts...................................................52
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2. Student Handbook
This document sets out important information which you need to know as a student before you begin
your studies at SOAS. Please take a few minutes to read through everything carefully.
This Handbook is for students enrolled on any of SOAS' undergraduate and postgraduate taught
degree programmes and members of SOAS' postgraduate research community.
In addition to this Handbook you should also receive a specific programme handbook as well as
module study guides at the start of each module.
The rules, regulations and policies contained in this handbook form part of the agreement between
you, the student, and the School, which should act as a guide for you throughout your time at SOAS.
If you have any questions regarding any of the information included in this Handbook, please contact
a member of the Weston Student Hub team, who are located on the Ground Floor of the Paul Webley
Wing in Senate House. If you have a question pertaining to your programme of study, please contact
your Departmental Support Officer, whose details can be found on the relevant department pages of
the SOAS website.
• SOAS
University of London
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3. Welcome to SOAS
I want to extend a very warm welcome to our new students and a warm welcome back to our returning
students. You are now part of SOAS and part of what we are proud to say is a remarkable institution.
You can now start exploring the vast repository of knowledge and expertise on our specialist regions,
which informs and shapes current thinking about the economic, political, cultural, security and
religious challenges of our world.
From day one here at our central London campus, you will be encouraged to challenge conventional
views and think globally - and that's one of the reasons why our graduates go on to develop careers
that make a real difference to society.
Even though this may the start of your time here, in a world of shrinking borders, it is never too early
to start thinking about where your studies might take you. The international expertise of our graduates
is highly valued by employers both in the UK and the wider world. Your degree from SOAS should
prepare you for a career within a global economy and multicultural world.
As I hope you will quickly be discovering, our academics have unparalleled practical and theoretical
knowledge across the range of disciplines we offer.
I hope you will take full advantage of the interdisciplinary approach we adopt, which is a key way to
deepen the learning experience, with an exciting and diverse range of modules available.
Finally, I want to encourage you to play a full part in the life of the student community at SOAS. With
over 150 student societies we have groups and networks to share and expand and which will part of
your life now and in the future.
I look forward to meeting you and I am delighted that you are now a vital part of our thriving
community at SOAS.
Baroness Valerie Amos
Director
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4. Your School
4.1. Mission and Values
Mission
Given the global challenges facing our world today, there has never been a better time for a School
like SOAS. The world needs SOAS more than ever before.
For the last 100 years we have grown and developed to take our place as a global university, teaching
and researching across a range of social science and humanities subjects, rooted in the culture and
languages of the regions in which we specialise.
SOAS' strength lies in using our strong language base, area studies specialisms and disciplinary
expertise to show the interconnectedness of the world, advancing knowledge and understanding of
our regions and their diasporas through excellent research, teaching and independent scholarship.
SOAS is committed to promoting a sense of global citizenship and mutual understanding, because
even as our world has become more interconnected through trade, travel and global communications
it also seems more fragmented, which requires innovative approaches to help us understand the
world's unity and complexity. At SOAS we work collectively to demonstrate the interconnectedness
and changing contours of the world and address the world's needs by:
• Challenging perspectives through producing high quality research that shapes global
scholarship and learning;
• Helping to build bridges in a complex world and make an impact in the local and global
communities with which we engage;
• Applying a global lens to the critical, pressing issues of our time;
• Producing high quality, well-rounded graduates, postgraduates and researchers who
understand and engage with the world and the regions in which we specialise and make an
impact throughout their careers;
• Developing new intellectual and strategic partnerships.
Values
SOAS champions a number of core values that underpin all of our activities and set a standard by
which we hold ourselves against, these are:
1. Promoting equality and celebrating diversity;
2. Freedom of speech and tolerance;
3. Promoting cultural understanding;
4. Ethical standards of openness, honesty, tolerance, fairness and responsibility;
5. Excellence;
6. Community;
7. Evaluation and self-reflection;
8. Transparency and accountability;
9. Environmental sustainability.
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4.2. Student Charter
This Charter has been developed by student and staff members of SOAS. It seeks to support our pursuit
of excellence in academic research, learning and teaching by setting out our shared expectations of
each other's conduct. The fundamental principles of the Charter are that we will provide mutual
support, seek to improve communications and strengthen relationships. The Charter does not
distinguish between staff, students and the Students' Union; it is a point of reference for all members
of SOAS. The Charter outlines the following principles:
Respect
1. Treat all members of SOAS fairly and with dignity.
2. Encourage diversity and promote equality.
3. Be punctual and reliable in attending meetings and classes, participate fully and support
others in doing so.
4. Recognise the need for fairness and consistency.
5. Use facilities sustainably and maintain them in good condition.
6. Be respectful, understanding and helpful in all interactions.
Engagement
1. Seek excellence in research, teaching and learning.
2. Participate fully as partners in a community of scholars and be guided by each other.
3. Make full use of mechanisms for representation and consultation in decision making and the
development of SOAS.
4. Participate in the wider life of SOAS, such as social, cultural and political activities.
5. Be aware of, and abide by, regulations, policies and procedures.
6. Critically engage with our history and celebrate our expertise and achievements.
Support
1. Encourage awareness and make use of academic, pastoral and other support services.
2. Encourage awareness and make use of training and mentoring services.
3. Participate in administrative processes appropriately and promptly.
4. Provide and make use of timely and good quality feedback on assessments.
5. Take advantage of opportunities for personal development.
6. Encourage awareness of complaints and appeals processes.
Communication
1. Develop and use appropriate and effective methods of communication.
2. Consider recipients' needs when communicating.
3. Take notice of communications we receive and respond to them promptly.
4. Take responsibility for finding out what we need to know and for communicating what others
need to know.
5. Make the processes that lead to decisions transparent.
6. Represent SOAS honestly and fairly in the wider world.
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5. On Being a Student at SOAS
5.1. Student Code of Conduct
SOAS has a Student Code of Conduct in place, which forms part of the terms of the contact between
the School and its students. It sets out the types of behaviour that is unacceptable and will amount to
misconduct under the Student Disciplinary Procedure. The Code of Conduct outlines unacceptable
behaviours pertaining to: other members of the School, which includes physical and sexual
misconduct and abusive behaviour; property, including damage, theft, unauthorised use and causing
a health and/or safety concern and; the School, in terms of operational obstruction, reputational
damage and any breach of School policies and procedures.
Every student should familiarise themselves with the downloadable Code of Conduct.
5.2. Dignity@SOAS Policy
Everyone at SOAS is entitled to go about their daily business at the School or on School related
business elsewhere without being discriminated against for any reason (including having one or more
of the defined protected characteristics). This includes being belittled, harassed, bullied, deliberately
offended, and undermined or excluded by others, be they fellow students, colleagues or academic,
professional services and support staff, contractors or visitors.
As such, the Dignity@SOAS Policy was reviewed and published in 2019 as part of the wider
Culture@SOAS project, which seeks to:
• Promote the principles of dignity and respect towards one another;
• Assist in maintaining a healthy learning and working environment where unacceptable
behaviour is identified;
• Proactively work towards the elimination of bullying, harassment and victimisation, by
building an inclusive culture, raising awareness and ensuring transparent effective
mechanisms by which complaints can be addressed;
• Encourage everyone to play a role in creating and maintain an environment in which
harassment bullying and victimisation are understood to be unacceptable and people feel able
to raise complaints, be heard and know that appropriate action will be taken.
5.2.1. Report and Support
Report and Support provides staff and students with the opportunity to report anonymously or
contact an advisor for support and to make an informed decision about their options for taking up an
official complaint about harassment or bullying. By having this tool available, we want to send a strong
signal to our community that bullying and any form of harassment will not be tolerated at SOAS and
that if you come forward to report unacceptable behaviour, we will support you in taking action.
5.3. Faith, Spiritual Practice and Prayer Rooms
The SOAS community in one where its members are free to live out their faith in an open and
encouraging environment. There are prayer rooms available at multiple locations on the SOAS estate.
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SOAS students can also use the multi-faith prayer room in the Institute of Education, which is right
next to SOAS Main Building. The prayer rooms in Russell Square are dedicated to Muslims only,
segregated into Room L65 in the basement of Main Building for male Muslim prayer and the Brunei
Gallery Prayer Room for female Muslim prayer. If you need help in finding the nearest place of worship
for you, or if you are interested in exploring faith, then please access the SOAS Worship page.
5.4. Student Central as part of the University of London
As a SOAS student you are automatically entitled to be a member of Student Central - a student union
for all of the 120,000 students enrolled at the University of London's 18 self-governing Colleges and 9
specialist research institutes. Student Central is different to other student unions in that it organises
sports and society events across the entire University of London as well as hosting three bars, a fully
equipped gym, fitness classes and the largest indoor pool in central London.
• Full Student Central membership is free and enables you to get involved with everything the
union has to offer. Please access the New Registration page to sign up for your free
membership.
• For contact information, directions on how to find the Student Central building in Bloomsbury
and the opening hours for each of the services they provide please access the Contact Us page.
5.5. Your Contact Details
It is important that SOAS holds up-to-date and accurate records for you. If you change your address,
name or any other personal details, including emergency contact details please ensure that your
student record is amended appropriately. You can update your personal details via the SOAS Online
Services page.
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6. Your Learning
6.1. The Bloomsbury Learning Environment (BLE)
The Bloomsbury Learning Environment (BLE) is the most important resource that you will use during
your time at SOAS. Your first point of call for any study related query you may have should be the
relevant BLE page on your SOAS website. Programme, module and assessment information can be
found here, as can any materials and information you may require for each week of study throughout
the academic year.
6.1.1. Finding and Signing into the BLE
You can access your BLE page via the link on the bottom left hand side of the SOAS website or by
visiting ble.soas.ac.uk.
To log-in to BLE, please use the same details you use to access your email. If you are having trouble
accessing BLE please contact ble(5)soas.ac.uk and a member of staff will be able to assist you.
6.1.2 Navigating the BLE Homepage
Once you have logged into BLE you will be presented with the BLE homepage, as shown below.
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Key
• A - Home link to take you back to the BLE homepage.
• B - My courses displays a list of the courses that you are enrolled on.
• C - Blocks contain links to different features, such as latest news, a
calendar, and messages within the BLE.
• D - Support for students provides useful guides and information on how to
use the BLE.
• E - Messages sent or received within the BLE will be viewable here.
• F - Site news includes important BLE status updates, upcoming events and
notices.
6.1.3. Module Information on BLE
Every module has its own site where you will be able to find staff information, an overview of the
module, weekly readings, assignment submission dates and news pertaining to that module. Please
note that you will NOT be able to access BLE module pages until you have correctly registered for the
module and paid your tuition fees.
To access this information from the BLE home page please click on a course from under 'My
courses'. When you open your module, the main content and activities appear in the central
column. This is usually divided into a number of sections which can represent the topics or
weeks of your module. Each section contains the resources and activities you need, such as
documents, presentations, web pages, quizzes, videos, discussions, etc.
6.2 Module Signup
6.2.1. New Students
Many programmes will have a series of core/compulsory modules which you will be required to
undertake as part of the registration for your selected study path, however you will have the
opportunity to supplement these modules with your own subject choices to complete your
programme timetable. It is advised that you review your potential choices and give yourself sufficient
time to research those areas that are of interest for you. Details of module information can be found
either:
1. On the Programme web page of your anticipated programme of study, where you can access
and view information pertaining to your module options.
2. A series of videos online which articulate the areas covered by modules.
3. Come and speak to the academic teams within the School to identify the best way forward to
meet your learning aspirations.
To complete the module signup process, please access the Module Signup page.
The overall deadline for module selection is on the last day of Welcome Week, after which we will
seek to lock down and stabilise module selection(s) and timetables. The link for selection will close at
this point, however if you have not yet selected your modules, you may do so via your Departmental
Administrative teams.
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6.2.2. Returning Students
As you move into the next year of study, you are required to select the module choices for your return
to the School. As you may know, many programmes will have a series of core/compulsory modules
which you will be required to undertake as part of your registration, however you have the
opportunity to supplement these modules with your own subject choices to complete your
programme timetable.
To register online for your modules please access the Online Module Sign-Up page and follow the
instructions for module sign up from the beginning of March onwards.
The window for you to select your modules opens before the summer break. The School understands
that changes will sometimes be required, and if, in narrow circumstances, you need to change your
module selection over the summer period, the School can look to support you in this endeavour within
the Departmental Teams.
6.3. Timetabling
You can access your personal study timetable at MyTimetable or by visiting
www.soas.ac.uk/timetable/policies/student. This service is dynamic, so if the schedule or room of a
class changes, the latest information shall be shown on MyTimetable.
Once you have logged in you can use the 'Connect to calendar app' option via the Main Menu (three
horizontal lines in the top left corner), or the 'Connect Calendar' icon in the top right corner below
'Log Out' of the Desktop site, to export this information to your phone/tablet calendar app of choice.
If you encounter a problem or need assistance with your study timetable during your time here at
SOAS please consult the Timetabling FAQ page on the SOAS website. Read this information carefully,
and if your question is not answered, please contact the timetabling team at timetable@soas.ac.uk
6.4. Types of Teaching and Learning
Study methods typically include the formal lecture, which sets out the main themes, issues and
critiques of the topic, normally supported with a reading list for other course material. This provides
the framework for more detailed exploration and analysis which takes place in seminars and tutorials.
Seminars and tutorials offer the opportunity for small groups of students and a teacher to discuss the
issues and to share ideas. Language students work in classrooms and in the language laboratories with
ample opportunity for practical work.
Private study, either in the library or own your own, will play an important part in your learning
experience at university. In this way you will become familiar with the research and problem solving
skills which are essential in many careers. Other forms of learning are likely to include essay and or
report writing, presentations in seminars, computer-aided learning, and studying abroad (for most
language students).
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6.5. Assessments and Assignments
Taught modules at SOAS are assessed in a variety of ways, including written exams, essays, oral
presentations, book reviews and projects. Details about how each of your modules is assessed can be
found on the relevant module Moodle/BLE page on the SOAS website. It is important that you are
aware of how you will be assessed and when your assessments will take place, so please consult these
pages at the start of each academic session.
6.6. Coursework
Essays, book reviews and other written assessments are due throughout the year, often at the end of
the term in which the module was taught or the beginning of the following term. Submission deadlines
are shown on the relevant BLE page for each of your modules.
All coursework should be submitted online by 23.59 of the advertised due date via the module page
on BLE unless stated otherwise. For more information on how to prepare your coursework for upload
to the BLE system, please access the Writing and Preparing your Essay for Upload page. For a
coursework submission guide for BLE/Moodle please access the Online Submission Guide page.
6.7. Exams
Some taught modules at SOAS require you to complete an exam assessment to pass the module and
progress through your studies. If one or more of your modules has a written exam this will take place
in the main summer exam period which starts in early May and lasts until early June. Most SOAS exams
are either two or three hours in duration. Exams usually start at either 10 a.m. or 2.30 p.m. on
weekdays only, this does not include bank holidays. The exam timetable is published on the SOAS
website in early March of each academic year and can be found on the Examination Timetable page.
You will also receive a personal timetable via your SOAS email address in early April, this includes the
following information:
• The date, start time, duration and location of the exams for which you are registered. SOAS
exams take place both on-campus and in an external exam hall;
• Your unique exam candidate number. All SOAS exams are marked anonymously and you
should ensure that you write this number on each answer booklet you use in exams;
• Details of any special exam arrangements that you have agreed with the Disability Team.
If you are unable to sit an exam in May /June or you are unsuccessful you may be eligible to re-sit the
exam before the start of the next academic year. Currently, late summer re-sit exams are available to
continuing undergraduate students only i.e. not final year undergraduates or masters students.
Similarly, you may resubmit any coursework you have failed or been unable to complete during the
academic year during the late summer assessment period. The deadline for submission of coursework
is usually set as the first date of the August exam period.
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6.8. Results, Academic Transcripts and Certificates
6.8.1. Results
Final, confirmed results are published at the end of each academic year. Details of the exact date for
your cohort and further information can be found on the Examinations and Assessments page. You
will receive a personal email advising you of your status, such as whether you can progress to the next
year of your degree or advising you of your final degree result. A breakdown of individual assessment
results is available after the result publication date on the Progression and Assessment page within
Online Services.
Postgraduate students will receive results in two stages:
• Taught module results will be released in July;
• Dissertation results and overall degree results will be released late November.
6.8.2. Academic Transcripts and Certificates
You will receive one free copy of a full academic transcript and degree certificate at the end of your
degree programme. Interim transcripts can be requested at any time. However, these can be
produced only after the formal publication of results in July. For more information on academic
transcripts and certificates please access the Transcripts and Certificates page.
6.9. Anonymous Marking
SOAS operates 'anonymous marking' on all coursework submissions and exam marking across the
School. This means that work is submitted and assessed without the marker knowing the identity of
the student. Anonymous marking is an important part of the broader work SOAS is undertaking to
address the attainment gap between different types of students by reducing the possibility of bias and
prejudice emerging when assessing coursework submissions and exams.
When you submit your work on Moodle or Turnitin you do not include your name or any student
number on the work (either within the submission or within the saved file name). This is to ensure
that academic staff do not know your identity when marking your work. If you do accidentally include
identifying information then we will continue to mark the work in accordance with academic
regulations. Please include the name of the tutor who convened the module on the front page of the
submitted file. If you have any further questions around anonymous marking at SOAS, please contact
the student support officers in your department.
6.10. Feedback and Evaluation
6.10.1. Coursework Feedback
Feedback on coursework must be returned to students within three calendar weeks from the
submission date. When staff are unable to meet this deadline due to unforeseen reasons such as staff
illness, students will be notified of the revised deadline and the reason for the delay. Three calendar
weeks are defined as 21 days (including Saturdays and Sundays) from the date of submission. This
does not include official School closure periods (see Key Dates). Modules on which 50 or more
students are enrolled have a longer turn-around time of four weeks/28 days (including Saturdays and
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Sundays) from the date of submission. This period does not include official School closure periods (see
Key Dates).
All students should receive individual feedback on coursework. Additional feedback (group feedback,
verbal feedback etc.) may also be provided, depending on programme, discipline and level of study.
Students must have the opportunity of meeting with their module tutor to discuss their feedback on
a one-to-one basis if they choose. Opportunities for one-to-one feedback allow students to discuss
their feedback with their tutor to clarify where they could have improved their work to achieve a
higher mark. However, marks are a matter of academic judgement and are not open to challenge
through the School's Appeals Process. If you want to or are considering appealing against a result,
please read the information on the Appeals Against a Result page.
Students should be made aware of the Marking Criteria that are being used to assess work, which can
be found in Section 7.10 of this Handbook.
6.10.2. Examinations Feedback
Students should note that the Data Protection Act does not provide a right of access to examination
scripts, and it is not SOAS' policy to release examination scripts to students. However, examiners'
comments (internal and external) are not governed by this exemption and students have the right to
see these comments if they wish.
Once marks have been confirmed at the relevant School Exam Board, students can request informal
feedback on their examination performance and such requests can be submitted through the
appropriate Department Office. Students should allow at least one week after making their request
as the script has to be identified as scripts do not contain student names.
Students may receive feedback on their scripts in a one-to-one session with the module tutor to go
through the feedback on their examination scripts. Students are responsible for scheduling the
meeting, taking into account the availability of the relevant member of staff (especially outside of
term time). However, students will not be permitted to take the examination script away with them.
Students also have the right to apply to see the examiners' comments on their examination paper by
making a subject access request as outlined within the Student Data Protection Statement. However,
students are advised to follow the procedure as outlined above for requesting informal feedback on
their examination performance - to do so through the appropriate Department Office.
In addition to providing one-to-one feedback if requested, module tutors may also use other means
of disseminating generic feedback on examination performance such as collective feedback sessions
or reports on the examination available on the BLE. Visiting Examiners' reports, another important
source of feedback, are published on the BLE for students to access. These reports can be found in the
section called 'All Visiting Examiners Reports'.
6.11. Marking Criteria
Students should be made aware of the Marking Criteria that are being used to assess work. The criteria
cover: undergraduate coursework, undergraduate examinations, postgraduate coursework,
postgraduate examinations and language acquisition modules (undergraduate and postgraduate).
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Undergraduate and Postgraduate marking criteria can be found along with Language Acquisition
marking criteria by visiting the Degree Regulations, Policies and Procedures page. You are strongly
advised to familiarise yourself with all regulations relevant to your degree. Useful general policies to
be aware of can be found on the same page, such as:
• The Coursework Submission Policy;
• The Academic Misconduct Policy. Please also read the information on the Plagiarism and
Assessment Misconduct page;
• Assessment Feedback Policy;
• Word Count and Over-length Coursework Policy.
6.12. Online and Distance Learning
SOAS runs a number of programmes via online and distance learning methods. These are delivered in
partnership with the University of London Worldwide to which both institutions have ownership over
students and programme delivery, with over 3000 students enrolled at any one time to a portfolio of
programmes across 160 countries. Online and Distance learning are managed and delivered within
SOAS by departments directly. At present, these are:
• The Centre for Development, Environment & Policy (CeDEP)
• The Department of Development Studies
• The School of Finance & Management
• The School of Interdisciplinary Studies (encompassing International Studies & Diplomacy,
Media Studies, Gender Studies & Climate Policy)
• The School of History, Religions & Philosophies
All online and distance learning students have the opportunity to access campus services (such as the
Library, Students' Union or Study Spaces) if they are able to visit the main SOAS campus and enjoy the
same privileges as all campus-based students do.
6.13. Year Abroad
SOAS offers degree programmes that include a year abroad. The Year Abroad is offered in all the
regions SOAS specialises in and where SOAS has a partnership with another institution, i.e. Africa, Near
Middle East, South Asia, South East Asia, China and Inner Asia, Japan and Korea.
The main purpose of these programmes is to provide students with an opportunity to develop their
spoken skills in the language of study, while absorbing and further developing an understanding of a
another culture first hand. It also provides the ideal opportunity for students to begin thinking about
their Independent Study Project (ISP) should they intend or be required to undertake one in their final
year and, if applicable, to gather materials for this piece of writing.
The 'Year Abroad' programme constitutes the entirety of the second or third year (depending on the
degree programme) of a four-year degree. In all cases, students spend their time on an intensive
language course at a partner institution, from approximately September to May, and return to SOAS
in time for the beginning of the following academic year (late September).
Please visit the Department pages to find out about the degree programmes that include a Year
Abroad and here you will also find information on specific requirements and further details of the
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opportunities available to you. Key contacts pre-departure and on-arrival are the Language Year
Abroad Coordinators, who arrange the respective Year Abroad placements.
6.14. Summer School
Summer Schools at SOAS offer a unique opportunity to study a wide range of subjects that combine
cutting-edge academic research, innovative teaching and practice-oriented learning. The taught
courses on offer at SOAS during the summer months vary in length, structure and price. For more
information on SOAS' Summer School offerings, please access the Summer School page.
6.15. SOAS Language Centre
SOAS Language Centre offers quality teaching in a wide range of languages to SOAS students and the
general public through its extensive extramural programme. It also provides accredited teacher
training programmes and bespoke language training for diverse organisations. Its proven expertise
lies in making the learning of languages practically useful, highly enjoyable and accessible to people
from all walks of life.
6.15.1. Language Centre Contact Information, Social Media
and Visiting Address
The Language Centre is open for walk-in enquiries from Monday to Friday 11am - 6pm. We can also
be contacted via email and telephone. To see our course-specific contact details, please access the
How To Contact Us page. Please note that complete beginners are strongly encouraged to enrol
through our Online Store.
Visiting Address: The Language Centre, Room SG17, ground floor, Paul Webley Wing, Senate House
North Block, Torrington Square, Bloomsbury, London, WC1E 7HX.
6.16. Widening Participation: International Mobility
initiatives
SOAS is committed to facilitating international mobility to all students regardless of background. As
part of its commitment to improve access, progression and success, the Widening Participation team
has teamed up with external organisations to provide short term mobility to undergraduate students
who are first generation to attend university, have a family income at or below £25K, have experience
of care and/or Live in a POLAR Low Participation Neighbourhood (LPN). There are currently three
different outward mobility opportunities targeted at students meeting one or more of the
aforementioned criteria:
• The Association of Commonwealth Universities offers summer school placements as a range
of scholarships for Commonwealth Higher Education Institutions.
• Common Purpose - A one week leadership course for 25 undergraduate students.
• Internships in Asia - CRCC Asia specializes in connecting students with applied work experience
in dynamic international settings. In 2019, two internships in Vietnam will be offered to SOAS
undergraduate students, each lasting two weeks.
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Please follow the links provided for more information. To keep up-to-date with international mobility
opportunities, please follow the WP webpages, the BLE and the SU Student Bulletin.
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7. Study Support
7.1. The Centre for Innovation in Learning and Teaching (CILT)
The Centre for Innovation in Learning and Teaching (CILT) is part of the Library and Learning Services
Directorate and provides a wide range of services to support students and staff. CILT offers a
comprehensive programme of academic and study skills training for undergraduate and postgraduate
taught students, academic teaching development for staff within the UK Professional Standards
Framework (UKPSF) and we manage the Virtual Learning Environment (BLE) for SOAS students and
staff, working in close collaboration with the other colleges in the Bloomsbury Consortium.
Opening Hours
You can find our office in 22 Russell Square. We are open daily 9:30am - 5:00pm. Alternatively you can
contact us on cilt@soas.ac.uk.
7.1.1. Study Skills
The Centre for Innovation in Learning and Teaching (CILT) offers a series of workshops, one-to-one
tutorials, drop-in sessions and online resources to help you develop your academic skills.
Academic Study Skills include: avoiding plagiarism; critical thinking; effective listening; essay planning
and structure; improving your academic writing; preparing for exams; presentation skills; reading and
note-taking; referencing issues; understanding your feedback; and, your dissertation.
For more information email Centre for Innovation in Learning and Teaching at cilt@soas.ac.uk or visit
the 'Study Skills' section of the SOAS website, in particular the Study Skills Workshops page. SOAS has
also has a number of study skill resources available on BLE. To access these please go to ble.soas.ac.uk/
and click on 'Study Skills' at the top of the page.
7.2. Academic Advisers
The primary responsibility of an academic adviser is to provide advice to students about their progress
through their programme of study, including both reviews of their progress so far and advice about
their study options and module selections going forward. It therefore includes advice to students who
are encountering academic difficulties, in terms of deadlines, marks, etc. More broadly, an academic
adviser can help a student situate their specific programme in its broader context, including the
development of key academic and other skills and so the connection between their programme and
their subsequent career. The academic adviser should be the first person to provide a reference for
the student in their applications for further study or employment.
The academic adviser acts as the first point of contact between the student and the School. Together
with the relevant student support officer in the department office, they should be a student's go-to
for any questions they may have about academic or non-academic issues. As a minimum requirement,
each student should meet their academic adviser twice a year, at the beginning of the academic
session and towards the end of term 2, prior to exams (and module sign-up, for continuing UG
students and part-time PGT students).
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7.3. Mitigating Circumstances
SOAS operates a Mitigating Circumstances Policy which provides students and staff with guidance on
what to do when students experience unexpected non-academic events (mitigating circumstances).
Mitigating circumstances are "exceptional, short-term, unforeseen and unpreventable events which
have a negative impact on a student's ability to take or submit assessments or to prepare for
assessments" (MC Policy, 2.1). Mitigating circumstances must also be contemporaneous, i.e. occur at
the time of the assessment or in the period immediately leading up to the assessment, and relate to
non-academic problems only. Any difficulties with the organisation or operation of programmes of
study should be dealt with via the Student Complaints Procedure.
The policy applies only to summative assessments as these contribute to the final marks for modules
and awards. The School operates an evidence based approach to ensure that all claims are dealt with
fairly, equally and transparently so that no student is advantaged or disadvantaged by the policy. This
policy applies across SOAS to all students taking taught undergraduate or postgraduate modules,
including taught modules taken by MPhil/PhD students, intercollegiate, study abroad and associate
students. There are separate provisions for the consideration of mitigating circumstances affecting
other aspects relating to MPhil/PhD students such as thesis submission or performance in a viva. The
details of these considerations can be found in the Mitigating Circumstances Policy for MPhil and PhD
Students
Claims must not be submitted as insurance against poor performance in an assessment. By submitting
a claim for mitigating circumstances the student is confirming that their circumstances are severe and
have impacted on their assessment. Submitting false claims or evidence is a serious matter and will
be dealt with under the School's disciplinary procedures.
All mitigating circumstances claims must be accompanied by original, contemporaneous, independent
third party documentary evidence which must confirm the existence of the mitigating circumstances
and state how the circumstances have impacted upon the student.
Information on acceptable mitigating circumstances and the evidence that is required can be found
by accessing the Mitigating Circustances page. For details on the impact of mitigating circumstances
on different forms of assessment for students taking taught undergraduate or postgraduate modules,
please access the Mitigating Circustances page. For MPhil and PhD students, please see Section 7. of
the Mitigating Circumstances Policy for MPhil and PhD students.
7.3.1. How to Submit a Mitigating Circumstances Application
You can apply for mitigating circumstances via the Coursework Late, Non-Submission and Absence
from Exams page. Forms will only be available to submit on this page during the application window.
Dates of each application window are listed on this page. For more information on submitting a
mitigating circumstances application for late coursework, non-submission and absence from exams,
7.4. Interrupting, Changing or Withdrawing from your Course
SOAS recognises that you may, for a variety of reasons, wish to defer your studies, take a leave of
absence, repeat a year of study or a specific module, transfer your mode of study, undertake a degree
transfer or withdraw from your studies entirely. It is important to consider the reasons for and
implications of any decision you make regarding your programme of study. Please access the
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Interrupting/Changing or Withdrawing from your Course page for information and guidance on the
questions worth asking and answering before you come to any decision regarding altering your degree
programme.
If, having consulted this document, you still wish to make a change to your enrolment status or
programme of study, please consult the Change Enrolment Status for Taught Students section of the
SOAS website. Here you will be able to find specific and detailed information regarding each avenue
of support available to you.
7.5. Fitness to Study Procedure
The Fitness to Study Procedure is intended as a supportive and protective procedure which can be
used when a student's health, wellbeing and/or behaviour has a detrimental impact on their ability to
progress academically and manage university life. It is intended to ensure that students who cause
concern can expect a considered and consistent response. This procedure should be used for any
student whose ability to cope with university life, to study or progress on their course is significantly
compromised as the result of their health, wellbeing or a disability and where intervention beyond
normal support mechanisms is deemed necessary and/or where the student has not engaged with
support mechanisms offered.
For advice about use of this procedure please contact Student Advice and Wellbeing at
studentadviceandwellbeing@soas.ac.uk.
This procedure should be read in conjunction with and is intended to work alongside existing School
policies/procedures, in particular: the Mitigating Circumstances Policy, the Student Charter, the
Dignity@SOAS Policy and the Student Disciplinary Procedure, which can all be found by access the
Degree Regulations, Policies and Procedures page.
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8. Student Support
8.1. Student Support and Guidance
A range of student services exist to help you during your time at SOAS. They provide an invaluable
source of advice and support and are available to all students of the School. For general information
on the types of support available to students please access the Report and Support page. For more
detailed information regarding the support available to you please refer to the relevant sections of
this Handbook below.
8.2. Identifying Problems and Pathways of Student Support
For a quick signposting guide to common student concerns and the suitable pathways of support,
please consult the table below.
Is your anxiety about a particular study problem?
For example: • study skills • time management • revision techniques ► Learning and Teaching Development www.soas.ac.uk/ltd
Are you particularly stressed about exams or workload? ext: 4554
Is the problem related to a disability or learning difficulty?
For example:
• hearing loss • visual impairment • dyslexia • long term condition • physical disability/mobility difficulties Student Disability Advisors disability@soas.ac.uk Ext: 5015 www.soas.ac.uk/disability
Is it a psychological or emotional problem?
For example: • bereavement • relationship breakdown • eating disorder
Are you particularly stressed about exams or workload?
Are you concerned about your use of alcohol or drugs? J
Are you experiencing panic attacks or disabling anxiety? Student Advice and Wellbeing
For example: studentadviceandwellbeina@soas ac.uk
• works unrealistic hours • avoids starting or finishing work • has perfectionist tendencies Ext: 5015 www.soas.ac.uk/ studentadviceandwellbeing
Is your problem due to loss of motivation or difficulty concentrating? Do you feel depressed?
For example: • low mood/low energy • difficulty in sleeping • general loss of interest • loss of self confidence r / 4 /
Do you have a safeguarding concern? / / /
For example: • sexual or financial exploitation • forced marriage
• pressure from any kind of cult or extremist qroup Mental Health and Wellbeing Advisor ext: 5015 ski 10@soas.ac.uk
Is your problem related to a mental health problem? -»
Is there a practical problem?
For example: • accommodation • family commitments Student Advisor (Immigration and Finance/Housing) welfare@soas.ac.uk ext: 5015 www.soas.ac.uk'disabilitv IFCELS: Accommodation Visa & Welfare Officer, ext: 4808
• finance • visas, immigration • legal issues etc.
Is the problem related to the preparation of an academic appeal?
Students' Union www.soasunion.org
(N.B. Queries related to the University's complaints procedures should normally be referred to the Head of Department)
8.3. The Weston Student Hub
What is the Weston Student Hub?
The Hub is your first point of call for any enquiries you may have during or about your studies at SOAS.
In particular, those regarding enrolment, programme and module registration, fees and scholarships,
degree transfers and withdrawals, complaints, progression outcomes and degree awards. The Hub
also acts as the first port of call for all student queries relating to student facing services available at
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SOAS, which include Student Advice and Wellbeing, Registry, SOAS Careers Service and the newly
formed Centre for Innovation in Learning and Teaching (CILT). Staff at the Hub are trained to either
assist with the query immediately, or to direct students to those with specialist knowledge.
8.3.1. Where is the Hub?
The Weston Student Hub sits on the lower ground floor of the Paul Webley Wing in Senate House
North Block and has a reception area, meeting rooms, sofas and study spaces.
8.3.2. Opening Hours and Contact Information
The Hub is open from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.
If you cannot visit the Hub in person you can call the team on +44 (0)20 7074 5100, or email
studenthub@soas.ac.uk.
8.3.3. Drop-in Sessions
The Hub runs multiple drop-in sessions throughout the year for students requiring specialist advice
including fees, careers, accommodation and wellbeing advice.
8.3.4. Student Letters
During your studies at SOAS you may need a letter to prove your student status for council tax
exemptions, opening a bank account or applying for a Schengen visa. The Hub can print you a student
status letter on the spot, just drop by and bring your SOAS ID with you. Alternatively, you can request
a student status letter online via the Student Information Desk (SID), which will be posted to your local
registered address, prepared for collection from the Hub, or emailed to your SOAS account.
8.4. Fees and Scholarships
8.4.1. Tuition Fees
Tuition fees are payable in full before or at enrolment at the beginning of the academic year. Fee
payments can be made by credit/debit card online or on the telephone, by cheque, bank transfer.
For more information regarding tuition fees, please consult the following links:
• Payment of tuition Fees
• Undergraduate Fees 2019/20
• Postgraduate Fees 2019/20
• Undergraduate Student Finance
• Funding Your Studies
• Fee Status
• Tuition Fee Discounts
• Paving the Postgraduate Deposit
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8.4.2. Scholarships
SOAS has a wide range of scholarships and awards to support students on our degree programmes.
These range from supporting students from specific countries or a group of countries, to supporting
particular degrees or areas of research. There is a competitive application process for these
scholarships and awards based on academic merit. We also offer a number of bursaries based on
financial need at undergraduate level.
For further information on scholarships, bursaries and awards available to SOAS students please click
the links below:
• Undergraduate Scholarships
• Masters Scholarships
• Research Scholarships
• External Scholarships
8.5. Student Advice and Wellbeing (SAaW)
The Student Advice and Wellbeing team offers integrated student support, based in SL48 in the Paul
Webley Wing. The professional and specialist staff offering advice, information and wellbeing support
are there for you if you need advice or someone to talk to about issues that are affecting you. We also
send a weekly email with updates and relevant information You can follow us on Twitter or Instagram
@SOASWellbeing for up-to-date information about the service. There are lots of resources and more
information about all our services available on the SOAS website, which can be accessed at the Student
Advice and Wellbeing page.
8.5.1. Contact Information
Contact: studentadviceandwellbeing@soas.ac.uk
Twitter/lnstagram: @SOASWellbeing
Telephone: 020 7074 5015
8.5.2. Student Advice and Wellbeing (SAaW) Services
8.5.2.1. Mental Health Support
Any student who has concerns about their psychological or emotional wellbeing can access
confidential support here at SOAS. We offer mental health check-ins and professional mentoring
appointments for students struggling with their mental health and its impact. You can book an
appointment or register for an 'on the day' mentoring session through our administrators. We also
offer workshops on personal development topics.
There are also a number of self-help guides available to students that SAaW provides, which can be
found in full at the Self Help page.
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8.5.2.2. Student Counselling Service
The counsellors at SOAS provide an accessible, confidential service to any student experiencing
distress, anxiety or confusion, or who needs to speak to someone who is trained to listen. The service
aims to assist students in managing their studies when this process is interrupted or affected by
emotional, personal or psychological pressures. The nature of the counselling offered is flexible and
sensitive to the diversity of SOAS students.
8.5.2.3. Additional Support
During the year the Wellbeing service will offer groups and workshops on relevant topics. These will
be publicised in the weekly all-student email newsletter, so do read the email when you get it. We can
provide information on other counselling or psychotherapy options outside SOAS, which can provide
longer term or specialised counselling. We also have a variety of complementary therapies available
throughout the year, either for free or at a reduced cost, which will be announced in the newsletter
in advance.
Mindfulness sessions are available twice a week - please check the website or newsletter for details.
We also have lots of resources for mindfulness, relaxation and self-help available on the website,
including leaflets on a wide variety of topics. Silvercloud is our online CBT platform which is available
for all SOAS students to access independently - just sign up with your SOAS email address and
password at the SilverCloud signup page.
Support for survivors of sexual violence is available at SOAS through representatives from RASASC and
Survivors UK, who offer independent, confidential specialist support and information to students of
any gender identity who have experienced any kind of sexual violence, at any time in their lives. For
more information and to book an appointment, email svsw(5)soas.ac.uk (no details needed).
8.5.2.4. Student Advisers
The Advisors offer information and advice on practical problems or issues that might be affecting your
studies, such as financial matters, accommodation, immigration, childcare and welfare benefits. The
information and advice is provided impartially and confidentially in a private quiet room. You can meet
the Advisors by appointment or at a drop-in session. There are leaflets, application forms and general
information in Student Advice and Wellbeing waiting area, SL50. Check the website for more
information about the services available.
8.5.2.5. Multi Faith Advice
SOAS is a vibrant community with students and staff from all over the world, and for many faith and
spirituality is an important part of their daily lives. SOAS has a Multi Faith Advisor based within Student
Advice and Wellbeing who works with the staff and student community on shaping your faith provision.
To find out more please contact multifaith(5)soas.ac.uk or, alternatively, access the Worship page for
up-to-date information on places of worship, or the Chaplaincy page for information on SOAS'
Chaplaincy.
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8.5.2.6. Safeguarding
SOAS is committed to ensuring that it fulfils its responsibilities in safeguarding any children or
vulnerable adults who may be at risk of harm or exploitation (the SOAS Safeguarding policy is
downloadable). Any student who is concerned about themselves, or a child or vulnerable adult can
directly contact the Designated Lead Safeguarding Officer for advice at safeguarding@soas.ac.uk
8.5.2.7. Disability and Neurodiversity
'Disability' is a broad term, if you experience difficulties but are not sure if you are covered, please
contact Student Advice and Wellbeing (SAaW) for advice. SAaW advises on the facilities available for
disabled students, and helps ensure reasonable adjustments are in place to make SOAS more
accessible. These can include: exam arrangements; library services and assistive technology; advice
on disability-related funding (DSA); specialist support (drop in sessions for both learning support and
professional mentoring, support with note taking and adapted accommodation); recommendations
to academic/teaching staff; emergency evacuation plans and campus accessibility. Contact SAaW early
on so that we can let you know what is available and ensure reasonable adjustments are made by
preparing a Study Inclusion Plan (SIP).
8.6. The SOAS Careers Service
While it may feel like a long time off, it is never too early or late to think about your career and where
you want to go after you graduate from SOAS. Whether this is the very beginning of your
undergraduate degree, postgraduate study, or the start of a complete career change, the SOAS
Careers Service is here to help you have the most fulfilling time during and after your degree at SOAS.
8.6.1. Contact Information
The Careers Zone is in SL62, on the Lower Ground Floor of Senate House (to the right of the Atrium
stairs). You can contact us on careers@soas.ac.uk or give us a call on 020 7898 4115. Follow our
Facebook and Twitter accounts for updates on our events, resources, and great vacancies. Our blog is
also a fantastic place for more in-depth careers insights.
8.6.2. Opening Hours
Term Time:
Monday - Thursday, 10am - 5pm and Friday, 10am - 4pm
Vacation:
Monday - Friday, 11am - 4pm
8.6.3. Careers Services
We know that making career choices can seem daunting and we will help you make the choices that
work for you. We have a thorough suite of online information resources available to you during and
after your studies, regular skill development workshops, employer-led events and fairs, as well as one-
to-one guidance sessions.
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• CareersZONE is our online platform for all our live vacancies and opportunities, and our events.
You will be automatically granted access via your SOAS email address and password, so be
sure to log in and have a look around.
• Our online information resources are available on MySOAS Student and we have split this up
into the stages of career thinking, so you can choose the stage that suits you. This includes
information about career decision-making, application writing, interviews, internships and
volunteering, and sector information.
• Once you graduate, you have access to our dedicated Graduate Support Network which seeks
to support you in your career development after you leave SOAS. You will have access to
appointments and events which are tailored to graduates.
• Throughout the year, we run short Guidance appointments, Application Advice drop-ins,
Career Discussion and Practice Interview sessions as well as Internship and Volunteering
appointments. For more information on what is available and how to book an appointment,
please check out our website or come and see us in the Careers Zone.
• Our events calendar is rich and varied and caters to a wide range of students. From Careers
Fairs, to skill workshops, employer presentations and alumni panels, we have something for
everyone throughout the year. Events are a great opportunity for developing your network,
career thinking, commercial awareness and sector knowledge. Our events calendar is
available on CareersZONE and we promote all of our events on our social media accounts,
Facebook and Twitter.
8.6.4. After You Have Graduated
The Graduate Support Network and CareersZONE are all accessible to you for information once you
leave SOAS, for life. SOAS Connect is also a great network as a graduate, where you can share and
receive support from the SOAS alumni community.
Fifteen months after you graduate, you will be contacted for the Graduate Outcomes Survey which
will ask about you are doing, and how SOAS has helped you along the way.
8.7. Healthcare
As a student at SOAS and/or a visitor to the UK you have access to a number of healthcare services
provided by the National Health Service (NHS) and independent providers. These provisions, the terms
of access and any costs that may be incurred are outlined below. Please read this carefully and ensure
you make use of and know your rights regarding healthcare access throughout your time of study at
SOAS.
8.7.1. General Health
The UK operates a Government-funded National Health Service (NHS), which provides medical and
healthcare services that everyone living in the UK and EEA nationals can use without being asked to
pay the full cost of the service. From 6 April 2015, non-EEA nationals need to pay a health surcharge
when applying for a visa to stay in the UK for over 6 months, unless they are exempt.
Those who have paid the surcharge (or who are exempt from having to pay it or have had the
requirement waived) can use the NHS on a similar same basis as an UK and EEA national while their
visa remains valid, although they still need to pay for certain services, including prescriptions, dental
treatment, and assisted conception services. The surcharge is £300 per year for students and those on
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Youth Mobility visas and £400 per year for all other visa and immigration applications. Dependents
have to pay the same amount.
Individuals who have a visitor visa and those with a visa for under 6 months need to pay for any
healthcare at the point of use unless an exemption from charge category applies.
All students should register with a doctor (commonly referred to as a GP - General Practitioner) on
arrival to the UK. To register, find your local GP Practice at: www.nhs.uk For further advice and
guidance on NHS entitlements for individuals visiting or temporarily living in the UK please click access
the How to access NHS Services in England if you're visiting from abroad page.
8.7.2. Sexual Health
The Students' Union (SU) provides free menstrual products (including pads and tampons) in G8 of
Main Building and the SU Shop. The SU also sells subsidised menstrual cups (moon cups) and re-usable
pads in G6 of SOAS Main Building. For STI and HIV testing, contraceptive advice, free condoms,
femidoms, dental dams and other support there are a number of sexual health clinics within walking
distance of SOAS, including: Martimer Market Centre (male and female clinic), Brook Advisory Centre,
Terrence Higgings Trust, Margaret Pyke Centre and 56 Dean Street. All of these services offer
emergency contraception - the 'morning after pill'.
8.8. Emergency Contacts and Useful Resources
Emergency Service Numbers:
999 - The main emergency Number
• Use for Police, Ambulance, Fire Brigade, Coastguard, and Rescue Services). 999 calls are free
and can be dialled from a locked mobile phone.
• Note: this number should only be used when urgent attendance by the emergency services is
required - for example: someone is seriously ill or injured, or a crime is in progress.
112 - Another emergency number
• This operates exactly the same as 999 and directs you to exactly the same emergency call
centre. Calls are free and can be dialled from a locked mobile phone.
• The important thing about 112 is that it will work on a mobile phone anywhere in the world.
So on your next foreign holiday, you don't need to make a note of the emergency number for
the country you visit; you just need 112.
101 - The non-emergency number for the police
• Use 101 when you want to contact the police, but it's not an emergency - i.e. an immediate
response is not necessary and/or will not be serve any purpose.
• 101 can also be used to give information about a crime committed, or to contact the police
with a general enquiry.
Ill - The non-emergency medical number
• This is available nationwide and replaced and expanded on the former NHS Direct service.
• Use this for illnesses and minor injuries where life isn't threatened, but you would like some
advice on what to do next.
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What if I require multiple emergency services?
• If you need more than one emergency service, you only have to call one - and ask them to
contact the others (they may ask you "do you require other services" and, depending on the
incident, other services may be sent anyway).
If you have no signal on your phone, you may still be able to make an emergency call.
• The phone will use any available network, not just your one. That's why some phones show
"emergency calls only" sometimes - there is no signal from your phone's provider, but there
is a signal from another one.
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9. The Students' Union
SOAS' Students' Union is an independent, politically active, engaged and diverse union, which offers
support and representation for all students, who automatically become a union member from the
moment they enrol on a degree programme at SOAS. Recognised as the representative structure for
the student community, the Students' Union's primary concern is helping you to get the most out of
your time here at SOAS and supporting you in shaping and defining your student experience for the
better.
9.1. Key Contacts and Social Media
General Email Account: soassu@soas.ac.uk
Website: soasunion.org
Facebook: facebook.com/soas.su/
Twitter: twitter.com/soassu
You can also contact your elected Co-presidents via email, the details of which can be found in the
Students' Union Handbook, and your elected part-time officers, whose email addresses can be found
in the Appendix of this document.
9.2. Representation
The Students' Union represents its members in a number of ways. It has four full-time elected co-
presidents who each have a specific remit of responsibility: 'Equality and Liberation', 'Activities and
Events', 'Democracy and Education' and 'Welfare and Campaigns'. The Union also has 14 part-time
elected officers who are each responsible for a specific portfolio of work determined by their
manifesto and the Students' Union constitution. The four co-presidents and the part-time elected
officers form the executive committee of the Students' Union and regularly attend School committees
to lobby in the interests of the 6000+ students they represent. To find out more information on the
Students' Union executive committee and how to get involved, please go to the Students' Union
website.
9.3. Student Representatives.
Representation also occurs at the programme level. Each programme of study has a Student
Representative who attends departmental meetings two or three times a year and is a vital part of
decision making processes within their academic department. Not only does this ensure that the
student voice is heard at all levels in the university structure, but also that the highest number of
students are able to be democratically involved in advancing the interests of their fellow students and
the direction the Students' Union chooses to take for that academic year. Representatives are elected
at the start of the year and elections run during the first three teaching weeks. For more information
on Student Representatives at SOAS please access the Reps webpage.
9.4. Getting Involved
As a student at SOAS there are a number of ways to get involved in the Students' Union. You can
nominate yourself to be a candidate in the elections for the co-president and officer roles, become a
32
student representative for your academic department and get involved with, or start your own
student society.
For more information on how to get involved, please click on the 'Democracy' tab of the Students'
Union Website or, alternatively, read through the SOAS Students' Union Handbook, which can be
found and downloaded by clicking the 'Your Union' dropdown bar.
9.4.1. Sports and Societies
The Students' Union has over 200 clubs and societies, covering sport, dining, political debate, cultural
issues and everything in between. The Union also puts on plenty of events, both inside and outside of
SOAS. For more information on how to get involved, or start your own society please see the Students'
Union website.
9.4.2. The Junior Common Room (JCR) and the Students'
Union Shop and Bar
The Students' Union also manages a bar, shop and common room on the ground floor of SOAS' Main
Building, just to the right of the main reception area in rooms G6, G7 and G8. The shop and bar is
staffed by and for students and the profits generated are one of the main sources of income for the
Union. If you would like to host an event in the JCR or bar please email soassu@soas.ac.uk
9.4.3. The SOAS Spirit
The SOAS Spirit is SOAS' official independent student newspaper, with a history dating back to 1935.
The newspaper is published monthly during term time and is run and managed solely by students. If
you are interested in getting involved with the SOAS Spirit, please send an email to spirit@soas.ac.uk
for more information or visit the SOAS Spirit's 'Write for Us' webpage.
9.4.4. The Students' Union App
You can download the SOAS Students' Union app for Apple and Android devices by searching
'StudentLink' in the Apple or Google Play app stores, then clicking 'download' and selecting 'SOAS
Students' Union' from the drop down menu.
33
10. Student Feedback and Surveys
10.1. What is student feedback and why is it important?
Student feedback mechanisms are those channels through which the student voice - the views,
opinions, values and perspectives of a higher education community - is collected and reported to
institutional staff and translated into actions that develop and improve the student experience.
Throughout your time at SOAS you will be asked to provide feedback on many aspects of your student
experience, from the services you use to the modules you take and even your entire degree
programme.
Student feedback forms an integral part of SOAS' planning cycle and underpins many of the changes
we make that you want to see. As a SOAS student and valued member of our community your
feedback allows us to continually review and improve our services and pedagogical practices in a
dynamic and responsive manner.
10.2. How will I be required to provide feedback throughout
my studies?
Student Evaluation of Modules (SEM)
• Conducted by your Module Convenor on all undergraduate and postgraduate taught modules.
Results are made available to the senior management team, Heads of Department and other
managers across the School.
• An anonymous survey conducted at the end of the academic session for each module, the
results of which are discussed at the Learning and Teaching Quality Committee, Academic
Board and the first departmental meeting at the start of the academic year. SEM seeks to
assess the quality of your student experience over the duration of a module, the results of
which are used to make and plan for changes the next time the module is run.
Student Representatives
• Student Representatives work on behalf of the Student's Union. Reps collect student opinion
and make sure it is heard within their department of study through attending departmental
meetings and student/staff forums.
• To help students with their programme, ensure their voices are heard and their peers get the
most out of their education at SOAS. Reps also communicate important information back to
students.
Student/Staff Forums
• Attended by academic staff, students and the Students’ Union.
• To provide an open space for discussion and collective thought about the issues facing the
SOAS community.
Department Meetings
• Held twice a term. Departmental meetings are attended by the academic and professional
services staff and Student Representatives within each department.
34
• To make sure all department members are informed of what is going on in the department,
to discuss important agenda items and allow student representatives to input student opinion
and provide feedback. Agenda space is always made for student representative input.
The National Student Survey (NSS)
• An anonymous survey only for final year undergraduates, run by Ipsos Mori (an independent
survey provider) on behalf of the Office for Students (OfS). All higher education providers in
the UK must facilitate the NSS in order to maintain degree-awarding powers. The NSS is the
only nationwide survey that gives students the opportunity to provide feedback on their entire
undergraduate experience.
The United Kingdom Engagement Survey (UKES)
• An anonymous survey for all undergraduate students not in their final year of study. The
survey is run by Advance HE - an independent higher education survey provider. UKES is the
only nationwide undergraduate survey to focus on student engagement.
Postgraduate Taught Experience Survey (PTES)
• An anonymous survey for SOAS’ postgraduate taught community. The survey is run by
Advance HE - an independent higher education survey provider. PTES is the only sector-wide
survey to gather data on taught postgraduate student’s - those on Masters, Postgraduate
Certificate or Diploma courses - learning and teaching experience.
Postgraduate Research Experience Survey (PRES)
• An anonymous survey for SOAS’ postgraduate research community. The survey is run by
Advance HE - an independent higher education survey provider. Survey results are used
internally for planning purposes. PRES is the only sector-wide survey to gain an insight from
postgraduate research students about their learning and supervision experience.
The Graduate Outcomes Survey
• An anonymous survey for all university graduates conducted by the Higher Education
Statistical Agency (HESA).The Graduate Outcomes survey collects data on the destinations of
graduates approximately 15 months after completing their studies, with a view to giving
current and future students an insight into the graduate perspective and what success looks
like following a student’s time in higher education
35
10.3. Student Surveys Timeline at SOAS
The timeline below provides information regarding all the study and student experience-related
surveys SOAS administers within one academic year. Please note that some of this information will
only apply to undergraduate students and not postgraduates and vice versa.
Week 6-8 on Term 2 only/year-long
modules:
Week 6-8 on Term
1 only modules:
Mid-term student Week 10-12 on
evaluation of
modules*
z\
Term 1 only
modules: SEM*
Mid/Late Jan:
National Student
Survey (NSS)
opens
(undergraduates
only)**
Mid-term student evaluation of modules*
Mid Feb:
Postgraduate
Taught Experience
Survey (PTES)
opens**
Mid
March:
Term 2
Ends
V
End of Sept:
Term 1 Starts
V
Mid
Dec:
Term 1
Ends
\z
Week 10-12 on
Term 2
only/year-long
modules: SEM*
Early Mid Feb: United
Jan: Kingdom
Term 2 Engagement
Starts Survey (UKES)
opens
(undergraduates
only)**
Mid
End of June:
April- PTES and
NSS' UKES
closes closes
Mid May:
PRES
closes
Mid
June:
Term 3
Ends
Mid Feb:
Postgraduate
Research
Experience Survey
(PRES) opens**
Mid
April:
Term 3
Starts
V
Key:
*Analysed feedback communicated to students 2-4 weeks post survey completion, identifying trends, changes
made and changes planned for.
** Analysed feedback communicated to students when returned by survey providers, identifying trends,
changes made and changes planned for. This will be during October/November for UKES, PRES and PTES and
August for the NSS.
If you have any questions regarding student feedback at SOAS, please send your query to
studentfeedback(5)soas.ac.uk and a member of the Student Engagement Team will respond to you as
soon as possible.
36
11. Graduation and Graduating from SOAS
SOAS Graduation Ceremonies take place at the Logan Hall in the Institute of Education, followed by a
reception in the Paul Webley Wing of Senate House. Undergraduate and postgraduate graduation
ceremonies take place over three days in the last week of July. Although you do not need to attend
your graduation ceremony to receive your degree, many students enjoy the opportunity to celebrate
their achievements with friends, family and SOAS staff.
All students will receive an invitation to graduation with instructions on how to book a place in
February. If you are re-sitting in June, you will be let know if you are eligible to attend graduation after
the examination registration deadline.
If you believe you are eligible for the summer Ceremony and you have not heard anything from the
School by the end of February, email us at ceremony@soas.ac.uk
For more information on Graduations at SOAS, booking a place, planning your day, gown hire and a
Graduation FAQ, please access the Graduation webpage.
37
12. IT Systems
Working collaboratively across SOAS, the Information and Technology Directorate helps every
member of SOAS to have a digital experience which meets their needs simply and efficiently. This
section of the Handbook outlines the core IT systems students will make use of during their time at
SOAS and how to make the most of them. Please read this information carefully.
12.1. Connecting to the Wi-Fi at SOAS
SOAS maintains an eduroam enabled network for wireless and wired internet connectivity. This
network can be used by students and staff at SOAS as well as at other educational institutions that
have an eduroam enabled network. For step-by-step instructions on how to connect a number of
different devices to the eduroam network, please access the Connecting to WiFi at SOAS webpage.
12.2. Signing into the Computers at SOAS
To sign into a computer at SOAS for the first time you will be required to enter your personalised
username and temporary password. Your username is the same as your student number (the 6-digit
number on your student ID card, for Language centre students it starts with L and is followed by a 5-
digit number). Your temporary password is your date of birth in a 'dd-Mmm-yy' format, where the
first letter of the month is in upper case. For example: 09-Aug-76. You should change your Password
as soon as possible and also set up some 'Challenge Questions' to help you log in in case you forget
your password.
12.3. Using Your Email Account
All email communication from SOAS (Central Admin, Academics, Registry, Student Union etc.) will be
via your SOAS email address and NOT your personal email account. It is therefore vital that you check
your SOAS email daily. Your SOAS email can be accessed via Gmail. It is recommended to use Google
chrome but you can use other browsers to access your SOAS Mail.
Your SOAS email address will be your 6 digit ID number followed by @soas.ac.uk, for example
123456@soas.ac.uk or L12345@soas.ac.uk for Language Centre students. Unless you have already
changed it, your email account password will be the temporary password that is set up when you enrol,
which is your date of birth in the following format dd-Mmm-yy, e.g. 26-May-91.
You can access your email from the SOAS homepage by clicking on the 'SOAS Google Mail' link in the
bottom left-hand corner or at mail.soas.ac.uk. Only after you have completed enrolment (including
paying your fees), will you be able to access your SOAS account and email address. For further
information regarding managing your email account and the other IT services, please click access the
Quick Guide to IT Service for Students webpage. Or, alternatively, email helpdesk@soas.ac.uk.
12.4. Printing and Scanning at SOAS
SOAS has a variety of touch-card Canon multi-function devices (MFDs) for staff, students and external
members to use, which are available throughout the School. All of the Canon devices print, photocopy
and scan to e-mail. We operate a 'pull' printing system. This means you send a print job to the system
38
(PAPERCUT - Follow Me) then go to any MFD, log in (by manually entering your username and
password or by scanning your SOAS ID card across the card-reader) and retrieve/pull your print job .For
further information on printing, photocopying and scanning at SOAS, please access the Printing,
Photocopying and Scanning webpage.
12.5. The IT Service Desk
SOAS operates an IT Service Desk, which provides support and guidance for students and staff on the
School's IT systems. For more information on the services and support the IT Service Desk can provide,
please access the IT Service Desk webpage
12.5.1. Opening Times and Contact Information
The I.T Service Desk can be contacted by emailing itservicedesk@soas.ac.uk or found on Floor E of the
Library. The service is open Monday to Friday 9am to 7pm and Saturdays 11am to 4pm during term
time and Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm and Saturdays 11am to 4pm during vacation periods.
39
13. Estates and Facilities
13.1. Finding SOAS
The main SOAS campus at Russell Square is placed centrally in the Bloomsbury area of London, which
is close to the British Museum, Oxford Street and Tottenham Court Road. The SOAS campus address
is lOThornhaugh St, Bloomsbury, London, WC1H OXG.
Campus map
Point of interest
O1 Tube Station
* Rail Link
P SOAS Campus and halls of residence
â– University of London halls of residence
» 1 gs Cron St Parc/as
Lfiiary
(g) Nanonal Galie»y
Shaiepcarc s Globe
(g) Pauc.
(§) Lopdoe Ey.
London
13.2. Getting to SOAS by Tube and Train
The following stations are all within walking distance to the Russell Square campus:
• Russell Square (Piccadilly Line);
• Goodge Street (Northern Line);
• Tottenham Court Road (Central and Northern Lines);
• Euston (Victoria and Northern Lines & Mainline trains);
• Euston Square (Circle, Hammersmith & City and Metropolitan Lines);
• Kings Cross St Pancras (Circle, Hammersmith & City, Metropolitan, Piccadilly and Victoria Lines,
and Mainline, Thameslink and Eurostar trains);
• Warren Street (Victoria and Northern Lines).
40
You can download a pdf of the complete London Tube map.
13.3. Getting to SOAS by Bus
The following buses serve the local area:
• Numbers 7, 68, 91, 168 and 188 stop on Russell Square;
• Numbers 10, 24, 29, 73 and 134 stop on Tottenham Court Road (north bound) or Gower Street
(south bound).
If you require assistance in planning your journey to SOAS by bus, train or Tube, or require assistance
with planning another journey in London, please visit the Transport for London (TfL) website.
13.4. Getting to SOAS by Road
SOAS is within the Congestion Charge Zone and the Ultra-Low Emission Zone (ULEZ). The ULEZ will
involve a daily charge for vehicles wishing to enter the zone, which do not meet strict emissions
standards. SOAS buildings fall within the ULEZ and will benefit from improved air quality as a result of
reduced exhaust NOx and PM emissions. For more information on ULEZ and to check if your vehicle
will be affected, please access the Ultra Low Emission Zone webpage. There are no general parking
spaces at the Russell Square campus but there are car parks at:
• Brunswick Square NCP, Marchmont Street, WC1N 1AF
• The Royal National Hotel, 38-51 Bedford Way, WC1H ODG
• Russell Court NCP, Woburn Place, WC1H OND
• Judd Street NCP, Judd Street, WC1H 9QR.
• There are also pay and display parking bays on Russell Square and the surrounding streets.
There are two Blue Badge parking bays at the Russell Square Campus (entrance on Malet Street),
which are first come first serve. These parking bays are exclusively for holders of a valid disabled
persons' parking permit (Blue Badge). If you are a Blue Badge holder you can also reserve one of two
other parking bays from Senate House. Please note that a minimum of 48 working hours is required
to make a reservation and you will need to provide details on the make and registration number of
your vehicle and your expected time of arrival. Please note that as these spaces are allocated on a first
come first serve basis, it is not always possible to accommodate requests.
13.5. The SOAS Estate Room Key
• Ls = Lower floor (basement)
• Gs = Ground floor (level you walk in on)
• 100s = First floor (up one flight)
• 200s = Second floor (up two flights)
• 300s = Third floor (up three flights)
• KLT = Khalili Lecture Theatre (Main Building, lower level)
• BGLT = Brunei Gallery Lecture Theatre (Brunei Gallery, lower level)
• MBxx = Main building at Russell Square (also called 'College Building - Old Building' on the
map above)30 RS = 30 Russell Square, just along from the Faber building.
41
• 43 GS = Gordon Square, behind the main Russell Square building and across the road from
Woburn Square
• Bxxx = Brunei Gallery, opposite main Russell Square building
• Fxxx = Faber Building, on the corner of Russell Square and Thornhaugh Street
• Malet Street xxx = within Birkbeck
Please note: xx/xxx = room number.
42
13.6. Map of Estate and Facilities
Matet Place Malet Street —► Malet Street
Euston Church
To SOAS
Loading Bay
r
No Entry
Security
Russell Square
Senate House
Holbom
Montague Place
Russell
Square
Institute of
Education
Loading
Bay
Russell Square
Car Park
Russell
Square
e-
Tottenham
Court Road
53 Gordon
Square
Tavistock Sq. | Bedford Way
University
of London
Union
irkbeck
College
Reception
Senate
House
Paul Webley
Wing
Malet St.
Car Park
ft
c
s
Philips
Building
/SOAS
Library
BSildinegs^archB,o<:k
Mam Rccepboi i
---< ... - J
Brunei
23/24 Faber Building
22 Russell Square
21 Russell Square
BBK 30
Russel Square
c
tf*
ft
o
c
u
s
43
13.7. The Library
SOAS Library is one of the world's most important academic libraries for the study of Asia, Africa and
the Middle East. The Library attracts scholars from all over the world to consult its holdings and further
their research. SOAS Library is at the heart of the service SOAS offers its students. Our mission is to
provide high-quality information resources, services and systems to reflect and support SOAS'
standing as a leading national and international centre of excellence for research, learning and
teaching, for and about Asia, Africa and the Middle East.
In 2011, SOAS Library was designated by HEFCE as one of only five National Research Libraries in the
UK, and as such receives direct funding to support UK higher education research in Asian, African and
Middle Eastern studies.
The Library offers:
• A variety of different study environments, featuring both silent and group areas;
• A large collection of e-resources, including over 40,000 electronic journals, 100,000 eBooks
and 100+ research databases;
• Extensive archival collections, manuscripts and rare books relating to Asia, Africa, the Middle
East, the South Pacific and Australasia;
• A range of skills training sessions throughout the academic year, delivered by staff with
subject and regional expertise.
13.7.1 Term Time Opening Hours
• Monday to Friday: 9am to 11.30pm*
• Saturday & Sunday: 10.30am to 11.30pm*
*For more information on Library Service(s) opening times, please click access the SOAS Library
Opening Times webpage. Please access the following webpages for details regarding Library location
and membership information.
13.8. The Brunei Gallery
The Brunei Gallery, built in 1995, is an exciting arts venue in SOAS that hosts a programme of changing
contemporary and historical exhibitions from Asia, Africa and the Middle East. The Gallery's aim is to
present and promote cultures from these regions and to be a student resource and public facility.
With the permanent displays in the Foyle Special Collections Gallery and the Japanese Roof Garden,
the Brunei Gallery makes a stimulating haven in the heart of London.
13.8.1. Opening Times and Admissions
Admission is free and the gallery's opening times are:
Tuesday-Saturday: 10:30-17:00, with late night Thursday until 20:00.
44
13.9. Japanese Roof Garden
The Japanese-inspired roof garden at SOAS, University of London was built during the Japan 2001
celebrations and was officially opened by the sponsor, Mr Haruhisa Handa (Toshu Fukami), an
Honorary Fellow of the School. It provides an area away from the noise and bustle of London streets,
where visitors can relax and meditate and can be found on the top floor of the Brunei Gallery.
13.9.1. Opening Times and Admission
Open: Tuesday - Saturday: 10:30 -17:00 and late night Thursday until 20:00
Closed: Sundays, Mondays and Bank Holidays
Admission: Free. Groups of ten or more people are requested to book in advance to avoid
disappointment or overcrowding.
13.10. SOAS Bookshop
The SOAS Bookshop is situated in the Brunei Gallery. We stock books used at SOAS on the following
subjects: Africa, Anthropology, Central Asia, China, Development Studies, Economics,
Ethnomusicology, India, Islam, Japan, Languages, Middle East, Politics, Religion, Southeast Asia and
SOAS publications.
Opening Hours:
• Monday to Friday, 9.30-5.30 (opening at 10.30 on Wednesday)*
• Saturday 12-4
*The SOAS Bookshop also opens late until 6.30 for the first two week of the Autumn term.
Enquiries Mail Order E-mail: bookshop@soas.ac.uk
Address:
SOAS Bookshop, Brunei Gallery Building, School of Oriental and African Studies, Thornhaugh Street,
Russell Square, London, WC1H 0XG.
13.11. Paul Webley Wing, Senate House
SOAS, University of London celebrated the opening of the Paul Webley Wing in the North Block of
Senate House in September 2016 at the start of its Centenary celebrations. The building, named in
honour of SOAS' eighth director Professor Paul Webley - who passed away in March 2016 - marked
the beginning of SOAS' next 100 years. The redevelopment of the iconic building has provided
enhanced learning and teaching spaces for staff and students and continues to unite the SOAS campus
in Bloomsbury.
Senate House itself, designed by the British architect Charles Holden (1875-1960), houses the unique
resources of Senate House Library, one of the world's largest humanities collections. This landmark
Art Deco building was the University's first permanent home after a century of being housed in a series
of temporary premises. King George V laid the foundation stone on 26 June 1933 and the building
welcomed its first occupants in 1936.
45
Senate House, consisting of 19 floors and standing 210 feet (64m) high, was the tallest secular building
in Britain on completion. It was constructed of the finest materials available at that time, including
Portland stone, Travertine marble, English walnut and South American cypress. Acknowledged as a
building of great architectural significance, it was listed as Grade II in 1969. Senate House has proved
a popular location for film and TV production companies. Films that have featured the building include
Richard III, The Hunger, Batman Begins, Nanny McPhee and The Big Bang.
13.12. SOAS Radio
SOAS Radio is an outlet for creative media and talent run by alumni, current students and staff at the
School, including volunteers from like-minded communities. SOAS Radio is dedicated to varied and
original programming on world music, culture and current affairs. For information on how to get
involved please access the click Information for Students: SOAS Radio webpage. Access our SOAS
Radio website to check out the variety of shows and special features we have on offer, as well as
further information on our programming and opportunities for you.
13.13. The Refectory
At SOAS, our Catering Teamare committed to sustainability and social responsibility, constantly
reviewing the ingredients and practises, to reflect these values. The Refectory offers a dining space
for Lunches, Evening Dinner, Snacks, Coffee and Cake, featuring a seasonal and fresh range of home
cooked produce with daily changing specials.
Opening Hours
Term-Time: When out of Session:
1) Lunch Service: 11.30am - 2.30 pm 1) Lunch Service: 11.30 am - 2.30 pm
2) Dinner Service: 5.30 pm - 7.00 pm 2) Dinner Service: Closed
13.14. Estates and Facilities Department
The Estates and Facilities Department is located on the first floor of Russell Square 22. The Department
manages the following functions: Catering, Cleaning, Conferencing, Maintenance, Post Room, Security
and Space Management.
All service requests (Cleaning, Maintenance, Security and Porterage) should be channelled through to
the helpdesk via email to campusservices@soas.ac.uk or telephone ext.: 4900 for internal calls, for
external and mobile phones please dial: 020 7898 4900. The team is available 24/7 365 days a year for
operational support, building access control and to raise any maintenance issues with. After hours
your call will be diverted to our out of hours partner for any emergencies.
Telephone: +44 (0)20 7898 4900
E-mail :campusservices@soas.ac.uk
13.15. Security
Constituting approximately 50 members including officers, shift leaders and Managers the onsite
security team protects staff, students, visitors and the buildings. They work 24 hours a day, 7 days a
week, 365 days of the year. All officers hold a valid SIA licence and receive continuous update training.
46
14. Rules and Regulations
14.1. Student Complaints Procedure
We want you to have a pleasant time studying with us, but we understand there might be occasions
where you are not as satisfied as you could be. That is what our complaints procedure is for. This
procedure should be followed if you want to make a complaint about a service provided by the School
(e.g. the Library or Registry) or issues such as teaching or supervision. There are other procedures that
you should follow if you want to complain about harassment or appeal an academic decision. Full
instructions on how to complain can be found in the Student Complaints Procedure.
14.2. Academic Appeals Policy
The Academic Appeals policy and procedure applies to all current students registered for programmes
or modules at SOAS University of London, who want to appeal against an assessment, progression or
withdrawal decision made by an academic body at SOAS (known as the "decision-making body").
Before you consider making an appeal or querying any result, please read the information included in
the Grounds for an appeal section of the Appeals webpage.
14.3. Attendance Policy
In order to benefit fully from their studies, students are expected to attend all classes for the modules
on which they are enrolled, which may include lectures, tutorials, seminars, language classes, practical
classes and any other taught sessions as set out in the School's Attendance Policy. Exceptions to
attendance requirements will only be made where a student can demonstrate that they have
mitigating circumstances in line with the School's Mitigating Circumstances Policy.
14.4. Plagiarism and Academic Misconduct
All work you submit for assessment at SOAS should be in your own words and incorporate your own
ideas and judgements. If you fail to do this it could be seen as plagiarism. Plagiarism is an assessment
offence, and could result in an allegation ofcheating. Please read the School's Statement on Plagiarism.
For information on how the School deals with plagiarism allegations please see SOAS' Academic
Misconduct Policy. If you would like further information and/or support the Centre for Learning and
Teaching (CILT) run a series of workshops, one-to-one tutorials, drop-in sessions and have a number
of online resources designed to help you develop your academic skills.
14.5. Degree Regulations Policies and Procedures
There are a number of regulations, policies and procedures that govern SOAS' degree programmes.
Cohorts will normally be governed by the regulations that come into force for their year of enrolment.
It is the student's responsibility to be aware of these regulations, which can be accessed by visiting
the SOAS degree regulations, policies and procedures repository. When referring to these documents,
please ensure that you are looking at the correct tab, i.e. the one that reflects your start year.
47
14.6. Student Health and Safety Guidelines
Please note: some of the guidance below may also apply to your place of residence.
Health and Safety Responsibilities for Students
• To take reasonable care of your own safety, health and welfare and that of others;
• To co-operate with the School to enable the institution to comply with health, safety and
welfare obligations in accordance with The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 (section 2) and
The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 legislation;
• To not interfere with or misuse anything provided for safety, health and welfare purposes;
• To report any health, safety and welfare problems using the Online Health and Safety Incident
Report Form;
• To be aware of and familiarise yourself with SOAS' Health and Safety Policies
48
15. Student Data Protection Statement
When you enrol as a student at SOAS we will need to collect personal data to support your student
experience, learning and research activities, welfare and your access to services.
The statutory instruments which govern personal data in the UK are the General Data Protection
Regulation and the Data Protection Act 2018. These laws together give you a right of access to the
data which organisations hold about you, and specifies how that data can be gathered, used and
disseminated. SOAS is committed to protecting the rights of individuals under data protection law.
Please access the SOAS Data Protection Statement for information on SOAS' Student Privacy Notice
on the personal data we will process, how and why we are processing it, who it will be shared with,
how long it is kept for and what your rights are in relation to your personal data as a student at SOAS.
Alternatively, for all of SOAS' information, guidance and policies on data protection please access the
Data Protection at SOAS webpage.
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Appendix A: Useful Contacts
SOAS Contact Number
Telephone: +44(0)20 7637 2388
SOAS Social Media:
Facebook - soasunioflondon
Twitter - @soas
YouTube - soasuniversity
Instagram - soasuni
LinkedIn - SOAS University of London
Snapchat - SOAS University of London
SoundCloud - soas-university-of-london
Google+ - SoasAcUk
Weibo - SOASLondon
Learning and Teaching Development
Telephone: +44(0)20 7898 4554
Website: www.soas.ac.uk/ltd
The Weston Student Hub
Telephone: +44 (0)20 7074 5100
Email: studenthub@soas.ac.uk
Visiting Address: The Weston Student Hub, Ground Floor, North Block, Senate House, Russel
Square, London, WC1H 0XG
Student Advice and Wellbeing
Telephone: +44(0)20 7074 5015
Email: studentadviceandwellbeing@soas.ac.uk
Website: www.soac.ac.uk/studentadviceandwellbeing
Visiting Address: SOAS Student Advice and Wellbeing, SL48 North Block, Senate House,
Russell Square London WC1H 0XG
Twitter: @SOASWellbeing
Disability Services
Email: disabilities@soas.ac.uk
Equality and Diversity
Email: diversity@soas.ac.uk
Finance, immigration and accommodation advice
Telephone: +44 (0)20 7074 5015
Email: welfare@soas.ac.uk
SOAS Careers Service
Telephone: +44(0)20 7898 4115
Email: careers@soas.ac.uk
Facebook: SOAS Careers Service
Twitter: @soascareers
Blog: soascareersservice.wordpress.com/
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The Language Centre
Telephone: +44 (0)20 7898 4888
Email: See language centre contact us
Website: www.soas.ac.uk/languagecentre/
Distance Learning
Telephone: +44 (0)20 7898 4050 or +44 (0)20 7898 4273
Website: www.soas.ac.uk/distancelearning
The Students' Union
Website: soasunion.org
Facebook: facebook.com/soas.su
Twitter: twitter.com/soassu
Women's Officer: women@soas.ac.uk
Disabled Students and Carer's Officer(s): sudisabilities@soas.ac.uk
Trans and Gender Identity Officer: trans@soas.ac.uk
People of Colour Officer(s): poc@soas.ac.uk
LGBTQIA+ Officer: lgbtq@soas.ac.uk
Anti-Racism Officer: anti-racism@soas.ac.uk
Mature Students' Officer: mature@soas.ac.uk
Accommodation Officer: accommodation@soas.ac.uk
International Officer: international@soas.ac.uk
Entertainment Officer: entertainment@soas.ac.uk
Campaigns Officer: campaigns@soas.ac.uk
Sports Officer: sports@soas.ac.uk
Environment Officer: environment@soas.ac.uk
The SOAS Spirit
Facebook: www.facebook.com/soasspirit
Instagram: www.instagram.com/soasspirit/?hl=en
Twitter: twitter.com/soasspirit
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Appendix B: External Support and Contacts
Camden Safeguarding Children Partnership
Telephone: +44(0)20 7974 6658/1276
Website: cscp.org.uk
Depression Alliance
Telephone: +44(0)20 7633 0557
Website: www.mind.org.uk/about-us/what-we-do/depression-alliance
Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) Checks
Website: www.gov.uk/dbs-check-applicant-criminal-record
Domestic Violence helpline
Telephone: 0808 200 0247 or 0808 802 9999
Website: www.nationaldomesticviolencehelpline.org.uk (non https website)
Health Centre (Gower Street Practice)
Telephone: +44(0)20 7636 7628
Local mental health crisis teams
Telephone: If you are already cared for by their mental health services call 020 3317 6333.
This number is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Website: www.candi.nhs.uk/service-users-and-carers/crisis-care
MIND - mental health charity
Telephone:08457660163
Muslim Women's helpline
Telephone: 0800 999 5786 (landlines) or 03039 995 786 (mobiles)
Website: www.mwnhelpline.co.uk (non https website)
Nightline - London-based student phone support
Telephone: +44(0)20 7631 0101
Website: www.nightline.org.uk
The Naz Project - sexuality and sexual health advice for South Asian, Middle Eastern, African and
Turkish communities
Telephone: +44(0)20 8741 1879
Website: www.naz.org.uk
Non-emergency Police number
Telephone: 101
Website: www.police.uk/contact/101
NSPCC
Telephone: 0808 800 5000
Website: www.nspcc.org.uk
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Rape Crisis Centre
Website: rapecrisis.org.uk
Samaritans
Telephone: 116123
Email: jo@samaritans.org
Website: www.samaritans.org
Sexual Health Line - free and confidential
Telephone:0800567123
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