Imagine arriving in a lively, coastal city, and immediately feeling part of a leading UK university. This is the ICP experience. They offer a range of foundation, international year one, and pre-master's programmes, all designed to solve any academic or language shortcomings you may have.

And it prepares students in succeeding when they progress on to the University of Portsmouth. Their teaching is about so much more than traditional teaching methods, as it advocates for learning and applying knowledge and understanding into your area of study.

Students at the college will be fully integrated from day one, on the university campus, with access to university facilities, meeting international students and home students, and fully immersed in university culture.

In short, ICP allows students to have an easy and successful transition to their University of Portsmouth degree.

ICP aims to enable international students to succeed at the University of Portsmouth through high-quality, supportive, and transformative educational experiences.

ICP is also committed to being inclusive and welcoming and creating an environment that encourages academic excellence, personal growth and a strong sense of community.

The ICP officially opened its doors in 2009, marking a significant step in the University of Portsmouth's commitment to international education. By acknowledging the unique needs of students from diverse countries, ICP provides tailored preparation for the university's city centre campus.

Since its inception, ICP has played a vital role in facilitating the successful transition of numerous international students to various undergraduate and postgraduate degrees at the University of Portsmouth.

ICP's history has been one of steady growth and deepening collaboration with the University of Portsmouth. Its expansion has involved the development of a comprehensive suite of pathway programmes, including foundation certificates, international year one, and pre-master's courses, carefully designed to align with the university's academic offerings across its various faculties.

Key Milestones

1. 2009: Opened in 2009 on the University of Portsmouth's city centre campus.
2. Early Years: Established initial pathway programmes, including foundation certificates and international year one courses.
3. Expansion of Programmes: Introduced Pre-Master's programmes for postgraduate studies.
4. Growth in Student Numbers: Increasing number of international students from diverse countries.
5. Curriculum Development: Collaborated with the University of Portsmouth faculty for curriculum development.
6. Enhancement of Support Services: Developed and expanded academic and pastoral support services.
7. Ongoing Integration: Deepened integration with the University of Portsmouth's academic and social life.

Therefore, the college's history is characterised by its strategic integration within a larger university framework, consistently focusing on providing high-quality educational pathways tailored to the specific needs of international learners aspiring to study in Portsmouth.

As an ICP student, you will benefit from the full range of facilities available at the University of Portsmouth campus as soon as you step onto campus.

This includes a library, student union, studios, training suites and technology centres, a shared social and learning space, art galleries, bars, restaurants and delicatessens. In short, there are:

1. Modern and well-equipped classrooms.
2. Dedicated computer labs and comprehensive IT services.
3. Extensive university library with diverse resources.
4. A variety of catering outlets and social spaces.
5. Access to the Student Union and its facilities.
6. Health and support services for student well-being.

Studying at ICP places you in the heart of a dynamic coastal city with a rich history, diverse culture, and a lively student atmosphere. Here is what life at ICP has to offer:

Living Here

Portsmouth offers a great living experience for students, combining the vibrancy of a dynamic city, modern amenities, and the relaxed atmosphere of a coastal location.

As a student, you will enjoy easy access to shopping centres, parks, entertainment venues, and the beautiful waterfront. The city is known for its welcoming community, making it an ideal place for international students.

You will find a strong sense of community both on campus and within the wider city.

1. City centre location offers convenience and access to amenities.
2. Coastal city with beaches and a relaxed atmosphere.
3. Rich maritime history and cultural attractions to explore.
4. Welcoming and multicultural environment.
5. Strong sense of community among students and residents.

Getting Around

Portsmouth is a compact city, making it easy to navigate on foot or by bike. Public transport options, including buses and trains, connect students to nearby cities and attractions.

The waterfront location also means you can explore the city by ferry. On an important note, you can often benefit from discounted travel on public transport.

1. Compact city easy to navigate on foot or by bike.
2. Good bus network connecting the campus and city.
3. Several train stations with national connections.
4. Potential for student discounts on public transport.

Nightlife and Culture

Portsmouth has a lively nightlife scene with a variety of pubs, bars, and clubs catering to different tastes. From traditional pubs with a cozy atmosphere to modern bars and late-night venues, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

The city’s cultural offerings include a historic dockyard, museums, art galleries, and live music venues like the iconic Wedgewood Rooms.

The city also hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, providing ample opportunities to experience local culture.

Whether you prefer a quiet evening by the waterfront or a night out with friends, Portsmouth has something for everyone.

1. Diverse nightlife scene with pubs, bars, and clubs.
2. Range of cultural attractions, including museums and galleries.
3. Live music venues and a thriving arts scene.
4. Hosts various festivals and events throughout the year.

Accommodation

As a student progressing to the university, you will have access to a variety of accommodation options, including university-managed residences and private housing.

Many accommodations are within walking distance of the campus, ensuring convenience and a strong sense of community.

1. Access to a range of university halls of residence.
2. On and off-campus options are available.
3. Various room types and facilities to choose from.
4. Private student housing options are also available in the city.
5. University accommodation services provide support and guidance.

Students' Union

As an ICP student, you can engage with the University of Portsmouth Students' Union (UPSU), which offers clubs, societies, and support services.

Whether you are interested in sports, arts, or academic groups, there is a society for you. It's a fantastic way to connect with other students, pursue your interests, and enhance your university experience.

1. Vibrant hub for student activities and support.
2. Represents students' voices within the university.
3. Supports a wide range of clubs and societies.
4. Organises social events and provides welfare services.
5. Offers opportunities for volunteering and skills development.

Student Jobs

Many students find part-time work in Portsmouth, with opportunities in retail, hospitality, and university services. The university's Careers and Employability service can provide support and resources for finding part-time work, including job boards and advice on writing CVs and cover letters.

The city’s thriving economy ensures that students can gain valuable work experience while studying.

1. Various part-time job opportunities available in Portsmouth.
2. University Careers and Employability service provides job search support.
3. Opportunities in retail, hospitality, and administration are common.
4. Guidance available on balancing work and academic commitments.

Other Facts

1. Shopping: The city centre features a large shopping high street and Gunwharf Quays, a popular outlet shopping destination.
2. Landmarks: The Spinnaker Tower offers stunning views of the coastline.
3. Community: ICP fosters a supportive environment with academic workshops, enrichment activities, and welfare programmes.

Studying in Portsmouth is an amazing experience. The area offers a healthy balance of academic success, socialising and culture.

Whether you are visiting historical sites, taking advantage of student discount shops, or making friends for life, ICP is a great place to ensure a memorable student life.

Portsmouth is a well-connected city with various transportation options, making your journey to ICP straightforward and convenient. Below are some popular ways to travel to Portsmouth:

Travel by Coach:

For a more cost-effective travel option, consider traveling by coach. National Express and Megabus are prominent coach service providers that offer regular connections between Portsmouth and numerous cities across the UK.

While coach journeys typically take longer than train travel, they often provide a more budget-friendly alternative, especially for longer distances.

1. Cost-effective travel option.
2. National Express and Megabus operate services to Portsmouth.
3. Connects Portsmouth to many cities in the UK.
4. Journey times are generally longer than by train.

Travel by Train:

If you are arriving at London Gatwick or London Heathrow Airport, you can easily take a train to London Waterloo Station. From Waterloo, there are direct train services to various train stations in Portsmouth.

To ensure a smooth and hassle-free arrival, it is highly recommended to check train schedules and purchase your tickets in advance.

1. Convenient and efficient mode of transportation from major London airports.
2. From Gatwick or Heathrow, take a train to London Waterloo.
3. Direct train services from London Waterloo to Portsmouth.
4. Recommend checking schedules and booking tickets in advance.

Portsmouth Train Stations:

Portsmouth benefits from several train stations, each serving different areas of the city.

1. Portsmouth and Southsea: This station is the closest to the University of Portsmouth campus, student halls of residence, and the city centre, making it just a few minutes' walk to ICP.
2. Portsmouth Harbour (The Hard): This station is ideally located for those heading to Gunwharf Quays and the Portsea neighbourhood.
3. Fratton Station: This station provides the most convenient access to the Fratton, Milton, Eastney, and Southsea areas of the city.

Travel by Taxi:

For added convenience, especially if you (as a student of ICP) have a significant amount of luggage, you can opt for a taxi from the airport or train station directly to your accommodation in Portsmouth. Taxi ranks are readily available outside airports and train stations.

ICP Airport Pick-Up:

Booking the ICP Airport Pick-Up service offers a quick and hassle-free way to travel directly to Portsmouth upon your arrival in the UK. To utilise this service, you simply need to complete a form requesting a pick-up to your specific accommodation.

The pick-up fee ranges approximately from £70 to £90 per person for a standard car from a London airport. Please note, it's a non-refundable charge (added to your ICP account) and will need to be paid within a short time.

1. Quick and hassle-free way to get to Portsmouth from the airport.
2. Requires filling out a request form.
3. Fee approximately £70-£90 per person from a London airport.
4. Non-refundable charge added to your ICP account.

Aqua Cars:

If you want to book your taxi independently, Aqua Cars is a private hire company that operates in Portsmouth and the South Coast region. You can book their services in advance or upon arrival.

1. Recommended private hire company in Portsmouth.
2. Option for independent taxi arrangements.

You can also use the taxi rank outside like Uber. There are many other rideshare options in Portsmouth like Uber, so there are multiple convenient options for transportation locally from train stations or if you're already in Portsmouth.

International College Portsmouth (ICP) offers a variety of housing options for students, both on-campus and off-campus, to suit different preferences and budgets.

On-campus accommodation

ICP does not have its own dedicated student housing, but students can access University of Portsmouth-managed halls of residence. These halls provide a convenient and secure living environment, typically including:

1. Furnished rooms with a bed, desk, and storage.
2. Shared kitchen and lounge areas for socialising.
3. En-suite or shared bathrooms, depending on the hall.
4. Bills and Wi-Fi included in the rent.
5. Security and residential support available on-site.

Off-campus accommodation

For students who prefer private housing, Portsmouth offers a range of private student accommodations near ICP. Some popular options include:

1. Rosalind Franklin Halls – centrally located with modern facilities.
2. Fountain Halls & St. George’s Way – known for their strong student community and meal services.
3. Europa House – premium studios and apartments with sea views.
4. Stanley Studios – stylish, fully furnished studios for independent living.

Choosing the right accommodation

When selecting housing, students should consider:

1. Proximity to campus – areas like Southsea and Fratton are close to ICP.
2. Budget – rent varies based on location and amenities.
3. Lifestyle preferences – quieter areas like Eastney and Milton offer a peaceful environment, while central locations provide easy access to city life.

At the ICP, students can take advantage of the University of Portsmouth's diverse extracurricular activities, enriching their university experience beyond academics. Here are some of the opportunities available:

Societies and interests

1. Cinema Club
2. Gaming Society
3. Music Club
4. Art & Photography Society
5. Debate Club
6. Drama Society
7. Literature & Writing Club
8. Environmental Awareness Group
9. Entrepreneurship Society
10. International Students Association

Sports and recreation

1. Football Club
2. Basketball Team
3. Badminton Club
4. Running Group
5. Tennis Club
6. Swimming Team
7. Volleyball Club
8. Table Tennis Society
9. Martial Arts Group
10. Rowing Club

Other

1. Student Support Team
2. Volunteering Opportunities
3. Leadership & Mentorship Programme
4. Cultural Exchange Events
5. Charity Fundraising Group
6. Language Learning Workshops
7. Career Development Seminars
8. Community Outreach Initiatives

These activities allow students with ample opportunities to engage, explore, and build meaningful connections while enhancing their overall college experience.

Tuition fees range for international students may vary by programme (Foundation, International Year One, and Pre-Masters).

The ICP primarily prepares you to undertake degree-level studies at the University of Portsmouth and develop fundamental skills pertinent to your chosen career.

Once you successfully progress to the University, the institution's full services will be available for career preparation. The following are examples of services at the University of Portsmouth you will have access to:

1. Support for further study
2. Career planning support
3. Career guides for various industries
4. Advice on identifying and developing your skill set
5. Guidance on career pathways and options after your degree
6. Workshops on tailoring your CV for the UK job market
7. Workshops on marketing yourself as an international student
8. Online learning and articles to support your career journey
9. Academic Workshops
10. Alumni events and tips
11. Mock interviews
12. And more

ICP is situated in the heart of Portsmouth, UK, within the University Learning Centre on Portsea Island. The campus is part of the University of Portsmouth city centre, offering students a dynamic and engaging environment.

Buildings and surroundings

The International college is integrated into the University of Portsmouth campus, providing modern academic facilities and a supportive learning environment.

The campus is conveniently located near Portsmouth and Southsea railway station, making it easily accessible. The city itself is known for its coastal charm, with stunning waterfront views and a rich maritime heritage.

Recreational facilities

Students at ICP have access to a variety of recreational facilities, including sports centres, libraries, and student lounges.

The University of Portsmouth offers numerous clubs and societies, ensuring students can engage in extracurricular activities that suit their interests.

Popular tourist destinations

Portsmouth is home to several iconic attractions, such as the Historic Dockyard, featuring the famous HMS Victory and the Mary Rose Museum.

The Spinnaker Tower, a 170-metre landmark, provides breathtaking views of the city and coastline. Additionally, Southsea Beach is a popular spot for relaxation and outdoor activities.

Vibrant cultural scene

The city hosts a lively cultural scene with theatres, music venues, and art galleries. The New Theatre Royal and Kings Theatre host a variety of performances, while the Aspex Gallery showcases contemporary art.

Portsmouth also has a thriving nightlife, with numerous pubs, cafes, and restaurants offering diverse cuisines.

Other highlights

Portsmouth is one of the sunniest cities in the UK and is just 90 minutes from central London by train. The city’s blend of historical significance, modern amenities, and student-friendly atmosphere makes it an ideal place for education and personal growth.