Middlebury College-CMRS Oxford Humanities Program
St. Michael's Hall
Shoe Lane
Oxford
OX1 2DP
UK
Telephone: +44 (0)1865 241071
Fax: +44 (0)1865 243740 or + 44 (0)1865 244926
Principal: Paul Monod
Senior Tutor: Bernard Gowers
Administrator: Fiona Kilby
Assistant Senior Tutor: Emma Salgård-Cunha
International Programs
Sunderland Language Center
Middlebury College
Middlebury, VT 05753
tel. 802.443.5745
fax. 802.443.3157
e-mail: schoolsabroad@middlebury.edu
Please note that information in this Handbook is subject to change.
Copyright 2016 by Middlebury College. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced,
stored in a retrieval system or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photographic
or otherwise, without the prior written permission of Middlebury College.
The Purpose of this Handbook
This Handbook has been compiled in an effort to begin preparing you for the program of study abroad with
Middlebury College during the 2016-2017 academic year. Please read everything carefully and be sure to
follow instructions. Failure to do so will waste valuable time and may jeopardize your participation in the
program. A successful experience abroad depends in part upon how well you are able to assume the
responsibility of preparing yourself for it.
If you read all of this material carefully you will find the answers to many commonly asked and basic
questions. However, our office always welcomes your e-mails, phone calls, and inquiries and hopes that you
will continue to seek guidance and support as you prepare for your School Abroad experience. Likewise, our
staff is always available to talk to your parents and family and answer any questions they may have regarding
your time abroad.
We strongly recommend that family members, parents, or guardians become familiar with the contents of this
handbook.
We hope this information will be helpful and we wish you a productive and enjoyable year abroad.
Statement of Non-Discrimination
Middlebury College complies with applicable provisions of state and federal law which prohibit
discrimination in employment, or in admission or access to its educational or extracurricular programs,
activities, or facilities, on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation,
gender identity and expression, age, marital status, place of birth, service in the armed forces of the United
States, or against qualified individuals with disabilities on the basis of disability. Because of varying
circumstances and legal requirements, such provisions may not apply to programs offered by the College
outside the United States. This is consistent with the College's intent to comply with the requirements of
applicable law. Individuals with questions about the policies governing such programs should direct inquiries
to the Language Schools, Sunderland Language Center, Middlebury College, Middlebury, VT 05753.
Students are responsible for knowing and observing all regulations that may affect their status at Middlebury
College. For this reason, they are expected to acquaint themselves with the contents of this handbook,
individual School Web sites, and all official School memos and notices. Middlebury College endeavors to
present an accurate overview of the programs, facilities, and fees of the Language Schools and Schools
Abroad in this publication. However, Middlebury College reserves the right to alter any program, facilities, or
fees described in this publication without notice or obligation.
Because this handbook covers a range of topics, and because it may occasionally be necessary to change the
text, the statements contained herein are not meant to be and should not be considered contractual in nature.
Welcome to the Middlebury-CMRS Oxford Humanities Programme!
As you prepare for a semester or a year of study in Oxford, we would ask you to review the information in this
Handbook. You will find in it many of the answers to basic questions that you may have about the M-CMRS program,
about the facility in which we operate (St. Michael's Hall), and about living in England.
Students from North American colleges and universities often assume that life in the U.K. will be very similar to what
they have experienced in the U.S. or Canada. While this is not a totally incorrect assumption, it is misleading in many
ways. Adapting to life as a student in Oxford can be challenging, because the culture of the U.K. is not the same in all
respects as that of North America. At times, it may be difficult and frustrating. It will demand a degree of good
judgment and maturity as well as a dose of good humor.
To begin with, you will discover a different social environment. On arrival, you will become a member of a community
of American students living in St. Michael's Hall. Through shared meals, field trips and social events within the building,
you will come to know some of them well. Over time, you will also be given various opportunities to interact with
students at Oxford University. This will happen through meals and events at Keble College, but also through the
Bodleian Library and through clubs, societies and sport teams that may include students from other Oxford Colleges. It
will be up to you to take advantage of those opportunities in order to become better integrated into the Oxford
environment. Throughout your stay in Oxford, if a problem arises, don't hesitate to ask for help or advice from the two
junior deans who are resident in St. Michael's Hall or from the other administrative and academic staff who work in the
building.
Second, you will encounter a different, highly demanding academic environment. In the M-CMRS program, you will be
enrolled in two tutorials for 8 weeks of each semester. Every week, you will write a paper for each tutorial, which you
will discuss in an intense on-to-one session with a tutor. You will also take a seminar course, and in the period of time
outside the regular Oxford term (the first 4 weeks in autumn, the last 4 weeks in spring) you will work on an
independent research paper under the guidance of an academic supervisor. Although the academic staff is available every
weekday to answer your questions and give you advice, your success in completing these courses will depend to a large
extent on your own motivation and initiative.
You will find the academic program challenging, but it should also be rewarding. We will encourage you to pursue extracurricular activities, by joining local clubs, societies and teams. You should also have time to explore Oxford, London
and other parts of the U.K. on your own. The staff at St. Michael's Hall, including the Principal, Professor Paul Monod,
the Senior Tutor, Dr. Bernard Gowers, the Administrator, Fiona Kilby, and the Assistant Senior Tutor, Emma SalgårdCunha, will do everything they can to make your stay here a positive one.
This will be an exciting adventure for you, and we wish you all the best as you head out on it!
Sincerely,
Paul Monod
Principal, Middlebury-CMRS Oxford Humanities Program
Hepburn Professor of History
Fellow, Keble College.
Table of Contents
Predeparture......................................................................................................................................................................... 1
Expenses .......................................................................................................................................................................... 1
Passports .......................................................................................................................................................................... 1
Student Visas ................................................................................................................................................................... 1
Customs ........................................................................................................................................................................... 3
Smart Traveler Enrollment Program .......................................................................................................................... 4
International Students.................................................................................................................................................... 4
Travel to the U.K. .......................................................................................................................................................... 4
TSA Regulations ........................................................................................................................................................ 4
Airline Luggage Regulations..................................................................................................................................... 4
Travel Arrangements ................................................................................................................................................. 4
Checklist of Items to pack ............................................................................................................................................ 5
General Packing Suggestions ........................................................................................................................................ 5
Bed and Bath Linens ................................................................................................................................................. 5
Electrical Appliances ................................................................................................................................................. 5
Computers................................................................................................................................................................... 6
Toiletries ...................................................................................................................................................................... 6
Prescriptions ............................................................................................................................................................... 6
Arrival in England............................................................................................................................................................... 7
How to Get to Oxford/St.Michael’s Hall .................................................................................................................. 7
Orientation ...................................................................................................................................................................... 7
Academic & Administrative Matters................................................................................................................................ 7
Academic Calendar ........................................................................................................................................................ 7
Credit ................................................................................................................................................................................ 7
All Undergraduates .................................................................................................................................................... 7
Middlebury Undergraduates ..................................................................................................................................... 7
Students from Other Colleges and Universities ................................................................................................... 8
Academic Programs ....................................................................................................................................................... 8
Academic Resources ...................................................................................................................................................... 8
Living in England................................................................................................................................................................ 9
Housing ............................................................................................................................................................................ 9
Meals................................................................................................................................................................................. 9
Keble College .................................................................................................................................................................. 9
Travel Within the United Kingdom .......................................................................................................................... 10
Meeting the English ..................................................................................................................................................... 10
Traveling in Europe ..................................................................................................................................................... 10
Working in England ..................................................................................................................................................... 10
End of Semester ........................................................................................................................................................... 10
Health and Safety .............................................................................................................................................................. 10
Hospitals and Medical Services .................................................................................................................................. 10
Psychological Health and Counseling ....................................................................................................................... 11
Sexual Assault and Harassment ................................................................................................................................. 11
Money and Banking .......................................................................................................................................................... 11
Currency Exchange ...................................................................................................................................................... 11
Money and Banking ..................................................................................................................................................... 11
Emergency Cash ........................................................................................................................................................... 12
Communication With Home & Friends ....................................................................................................................... 12
Communication and Immersion ................................................................................................................................ 12
Mail ................................................................................................................................................................................. 12
Telephone ...................................................................................................................................................................... 13
Cell Phones.................................................................................................................................................................... 13
Local Information ............................................................................................................................................................. 13
Emergency Numbers & Addresses ........................................................................................................................... 13
Travel & Transportation ............................................................................................................................................. 14
Other Useful Information........................................................................................................................................... 14
PREDEPARTURE
APPROXIMATE PROGRAM COSTS
Estimate of program costs for full and semester students as of February 2015 can be found here. Amounts
are in U.S. dollars. Figures may vary depending on individual lifestyles and situations. Please note that the
“personal” figure covers only some basic necessities (e.g. local transportation, personal items, cell phones,
laundry, cultural activities, bank fees, etc.) and does not and is not intended to include students’ discretionary
spending (e.g. entertainment and travel). Note that you will not need to budget for expensive textbooks; you
will be required to make few book purchases, if any.
Fluctuating exchange rates make advanced planning of costs challenging. We advise that you overestimate
your costs to accommodate these fluctuations. Please be sure to confirm the exchange rate shortly before
your departure so that you budget accordingly.
EXPENSES
Keep in mind that the amount of money you spend ultimately depends on the lifestyle you choose.
Remember to budget extra if you are planning to travel before or after your program. Plane tickets are often
more expensive than in the U.S., but train and bus travel has remained relatively inexpensive. If you are a big
spender in the U.S., bringing more money would be a good idea. Many students have found that they buy
many books, as they are inexpensive and easy to mail home, and spend more than expected on gifts,
entertainment, etc. Students who plan on regularly sampling the nightlife of their host city should budget
extra money for taxis.
PASSPORTS
One of the first things you should do in preparing for your study abroad experience is obtain a passport. If
you do not currently have a passport that is valid at least six months after your program abroad ends, you
must apply for or renew your passport immediately. It can take from four to six weeks or more, and student
visas cannot be issued without a valid passport.
New passports cost $135 (including processing fee), and if you are renewing your passport, the cost is $110 (if
you qualify to renew by mail).
In Middlebury you can apply for a passport at the Court House (next to Shaw’s) or at the U.S. Post Office on
Main Street. To apply for a passport, you will need:
◙ Completed passport application (see http://travel.state.gov/passport/
◙ Passport application fee;
◙ Valid proof of citizenship [e.g., an expired U.S. passport, a certified (original) birth certificate];
◙ Proof of identity (a valid driver's license or government identification card, provided they identify you
by physical description or photograph);
◙ Two identical 2 x 2-inch passport photographs taken within six months of applying for your passport.
STUDENT VISAS
Middlebury-CMRS is not allowed to tell you which visa option is appropriate for your individual situation, but
we can point you in the right direction and give you guidance regarding what you need to know and do. All
students must thoroughly familiarize themselves with the information available on the GOV.UK website in
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order to make immigration decisions.
Here is what you need to do:
Step 1: run your details through the online tool ‘Check if you need a UK visa’ on the GOV.UK
website.
If the tool tells you 'You do not need a visa to come to the UK’ the 2 options are:
1. You are allowed to enter the UK as an EU/EEA citizen and you have no visa or immigration
requirements at all.
2. You are allowed to enter the UK on arrival as ‘Short-term’ student' (formerly known as “student visitor”)
– in this case the tool will also tell you that ‘you should bring documents with you to show at the
border. See the relevant student visa guide to see what documents to bring.’
This may be the best option for you if:
 plan to travel on a US passport
 plan to study at Middlebury-CMRS for one semester (less than six months)
 do not want to extend your stay; and
 meet all the given criteria
Please note: Although legislation states that US citizens eligible for ’Short-term study' status do not need to obtain
a visa prior to arrival, some M-CMRS students without a visa obtained in advance have encountered problems
when entering the UK or have been refused entry if they have not had the correct documentation with them to show
at the border. Full details about the documents you will need to bring with you (which are the same as if you were
applying for the ‘Short-term Study Visa' in advance) are available at: https://www.gov.uk/study-visitvisa/documents-you-must-provide
If the tool tells you that you do need a visa, the two options are:
3. A ‘Short-term Study Visa' (formerly known as “student visitor visa”) obtained in advance – You may find
this the most suitable option if you:
 plan to study at Middlebury-CMRS for one semester (less than six months)
 do not want to extend your stay; and
 meet all the GOV.UK given criteria

4. A ’Tier 4 (General ) Student Visa’ obtained in advance - You may find this the most suitable option if you:



plan to study at Middlebury-CMRS for two semesters (more than six months)
may want to extend your stay
may want to work during the vacation or at the end of the course, for as long as the visa is
valid; and/or
 do not meet all the given criteria for entry as a ’Short-term Student on Arrival’ or for a
‘Short-term Study Visa’ obtained in Advance
Please note: Students studying at Middlebury-CMRS will not be allowed to work during the semester (M-CMRS
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Policy) but will be allowed to work during the vacation or at the end of the course for as long as the Tier 4 visa is
valid.
Please note: other options/requirements may apply, which the tool will highlight if applicable.
Step 2: Inform M-CMRS, Oxford.
Once you have researched your options and made your decision you must complete the ‘Visas & Immigration
Form’ to inform us of your visa/immigration decision before making any kind of visa application. You will
need a supporting letter for options 2, 3 & 4 above which will be issued from M-CMRS in Oxford by email
with further information about how to proceed.
The form will ask you to select one of the following statements to clarify your decision:
1. Have no visa requirements at all and the reason why not (e.g. that you are an EU citizen)
2. Will enter the UK as a ‘Short-term Student on Arrival’ (formerly known as “Student Visitor on
Arrival”)
3. Will apply for a ‘Short-term Study Visa’ (formerly known as “Student Visitor Visa”) in advance
4. Will apply for a ‘Tier 4 (General) Student Visa’ in advance
Process & Timescales
If you are applying for option 3 or 4 in advance you must familiarize yourself with the complete application
process and its timeframes. Visa applications should be made no more than 90 days before the start date of
your course. You must have all of your supporting documentation, including your letter from M-CMRS
Oxford, ready to submit with your application. Visa processing offices get extremely busy at certain times of
the year which increases visa processing times considerably – you should allow at least 6-8 weeks. If you
are applying for a visa in advance there will be a fee.
Please note: If you are a NON-US citizen, you can apply for a student visa through a consulate in the U.S.,
but you must submit proof of how you are legally in the U.S. (I-20, etc.) with your mailed application
materials. However, non-U.S. citizens (including green card holders) are treated as citizens of their home
country (country of held passport) and additional processing time may be necessary.
Information about applying for a UK visa in the USA includes online, forms and details about visa
application centres.
Questions
If you need further information, please go to the website of UK Visas & Immigration, which provides
information about how to contact UK Visas and Immigration by phone or email: https://ukviinternational.faq-help.com/. Contact by e-mail is free; speaking directly to an advisor costs £1.37 per minute
on top of the cost of the call, and a ten minute webchat will cost £4. Note that contacting UK Visas and
Immigration will not play any part in or influence the outcome of visa applications. The phone number in the
United States is 1-888-683-9699. The hours are 8am - 5pm EDT.
CUSTOMS
If you plan to bring any new, non-U.S.-made articles of value, such as cameras, MP3 players, computers,
bicycles, or jewelry that are less than six months old, you should register them with U.S. Customs and Border
Protection before departure (CBP Form 4457). Alternately, you can carry your original sales receipts to prove
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that you purchased them in the U.S. This avoids you having to pay a duty upon your return. Customs
regulations vary from country to country; there are usually limitations on liquor, cigarettes, and other goods.
REGISTERING WITH THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
All U.S. citizens should register themselves with the U.S. Embassy before departure from the U.S. In the
event of international, political, or family emergencies, or in the event that your passport is lost or stolen, the
U.S. Embassy is much better able to assist registered citizens. Please visit the Department of State’s website
and follow this link to register.
Print the confirmation page after you have registered; leave one copy at home and take one with you.
Students of other nationalities should check with their own embassies to see if it is possible to register prior
to departure.
INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
If you are an international student, you should meet with the international student advising staff at your home
institution as early as possible to discuss how study abroad may affect your international student status in the
U.S. and the ways it may impact your future plans.
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) require re-entry documents for some foreign
nationals. If you are living in the US but are a citizen of another country, check with the USCIS to determine
the regulations that apply to you and be sure to obtain all necessary re-entry documents before you leave the
United States.
TRAVEL TO THE U.K.
TSA Regulations
The Transportation Security Administration regulates what items may be carried aboard the aircraft and, as
these regulations are subject to change frequently, you should consult their website close to your date of
departure. Possessing certain items while going through security may result in fines or, in the case of firearms,
may be considered a criminal offense.
Airline Luggage Regulations
Students should contact their airline to confirm exact luggage allowances. We strongly suggest you stick to
these guidelines, or be prepared to pay excess baggage fees, which can be quite expensive. We also suggest
that you consider insuring your luggage through a comprehensive travel insurance policy.
Travel Arrangements
Students are responsible for their own travel arrangements. We recommend using a student travel agency for
flexibility and the best rates:
 www.edreams.com
 www.travelcuts.com
 www.studentuniverse.com
 www.statravel.com
 www.terminalA.com
Consult the Middlebury-CMRS Calendar when planning your travel dates. All students are required to
arrive at Middlebury-CMRS by the designated arrival day and are required to attend orientation. It is
especially important that you not plan your return to the United States or travel to another destination before
the program’s end date. Requests to leave the program early will not be granted.
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CHECKLIST OF ITEMS TO PACK
 Passport (and photocopy)
 Visa/Immigration documentation (if applicable)
 Airline ticket/itinerary (and photocopy)
 International Student Identity Card (optional, but recommended)
 Insurance card (to be printed from the HTH Worldwide
website after Middlebury
enrolls you)
 Debit/Credit cards
 Certified copy of original birth certificate (in case your passport is lost or stolen)
 Medications in original containers and with the corresponding doctor’s prescription (in carry on, not
in checked luggage)
GENERAL PACKING SUGGESTIONS
Plan carefully what to bring, keeping in mind that you will have to carry all of your own luggage while
traveling. This means TRAVEL LIGHTLY. We cannot emphasize this strongly enough! Choose each item
carefully and avoid duplication.
As you pack for the flight over, also keep in mind that when you travel you will be carrying this same luggage
by yourself, sometimes over great distances or on crowded trains. Take things that are easy to manage and
avoid over-packing. One rule of thumb is to pack your bags and walk around the block with them three
times; then re-pack.
We suggest that you insure your luggage through a travel insurance policy which you can research through the
Internet. Remember to also check whether luggage accompanying you is limited by weight or by physical
dimensions. In view of frequently-changing airline regulations, it is essential that you find out from your
airline which items may be transported in checked baggage, and which may or must be hand carried. Do not
pack lots of books in your luggage. You can buy them in England and ship them home after the term ends.
Although many U.S. brands are sold in England, if you cannot do without certain items or if you are not
willing to experiment with local products, take a sufficient supply with you.
Clothing
The English weather is unpredictable. It would be wise to pack some warm clothes, a raincoat, an umbrella
and sensible shoes for walking, or allow money for the purchase of them in England. It is best to pack clothes
you can wear in layers: the more layers you can peel off/add on, the more comfortable you will be.
Bed and Bath Linens
All rooms are comfortably furnished with linen, duvets (comforters) and blankets provided. You must bring
your own towels (or purchase upon arrival). You are responsible for laundering your own clothes. St.
Michael's Hall has a coin operated laundry.
Electrical Appliances
American electrical equipment will only work in the UK if it is specifically designed to work with 220-240
Volts and 50 mHz or with an appropriate transformer. Middlebury-CMRS strongly advises you to purchase a
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converter, transformer or adaptor once you have arrived in the UK, as those purchased in the US tend to be
very problematic. Alternatively, allow money to purchase UK electrical items.
Computers
Students should be advised that computer resources in England may be more limited than in the U.S.
and are therefore encouraged to bring their own laptops. Consult your dealer to determine whether it has dual
voltage (110/220). Most, if not all, new models are equipped with self-setting transformers (requiring no
special equipment to change the voltage, just an adapter for the wall plug); printers may or may not be.
St. Michael’s Hall has a networked Apple Mac computing system with permanent access to the internet. The
Middlebury-CMRS Apple Macs and cross-platform printer are accessible 24-hours a day. Hardware and
software are upgraded and expanded regularly. St. Michael’s Hall is covered by wireless networks and there
are Ethernet points in teaching rooms and every study-bedroom.
Students should ensure their laptops are covered by appropriate insurance. The internet/network may be
accessed by Mac or PC Laptops (designed to take 220-240v and 50mHz) which are airport/wireless enabled
or installed with an Ethernet card, port, and Ethernet cord (RJ45 connector). You are required to have
regularly updated anti-virus software installed on your laptop before connecting to the Middlebury-CMRS
network or internet. You must learn how to use and set up your own computer before coming. We do not have
an IT specialist on staff so can only be of limited help to you.
The Middlebury-CMRS Apple Macs are set up to make voice and video calls with Microsoft and Yahoo
Instant Messenger over the internet free of charge.
Toiletries
Toiletries are readily available throughout England. If you are particular about brands, you may want to pack
an appropriate supply of the articles you regularly use.
Prescriptions
If you are taking any prescription medication you should bring a full supply of what you will need with you
on the plane together with all the appropriate prescriptions. Mailing medicines across international
borders is extremely complex and often impossible. Prescription medicines should be left in the original
containers, be accompanied by a doctor’s prescription, and be packed in your carry-on bags, not in your
checked luggage. Please also note that in the event that a prescription must be replaced in England, you
should have the GENERIC NAME of your medication on the prescription, in addition to the American
'brand' name.
If you are under a doctor’s care for a specific condition, you may want to bring a copy of your medical history
with you or sign a release of information form with your doctor in case your medical history needs to be sent
to a doctor in England.
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ARRIVAL IN ENGLAND
HOW TO GET TO OXFORD/ST.MICHAEL’S HALL
You should arrive on the date indicated, not earlier or later, unless there are quite exceptional circumstances
and prior permission is given by Middlebury-CMRS. You should plan to move into your room between 9.00
a.m. and 5.00 p.m. You must complete the Arrival Form online to inform us of your itinerary.
If you are travelling to Oxford from London Heathrow Airport or London Gatwick Airport, please see the
Oxford Bus Company website for bus times and fares.
If you are travelling from London Stanstead Airport, Birmingham International Airport or other UK
Airports, please see the National Express website for coach times and fares.
A member of the Middlebury-CMRS staff will be at the Oxford bus station, ‘Gloucester Green’ between 9.00
a.m. and 5.00 p.m. on arrival day to meet you, so look out for the Middlebury-CMRS sign. You will be taken
to St. Michael’s Hall Administration to check-in and then shown to your accommodation.
ORIENTATION
There will be an orientation and reception on the evening of your arrival, followed by further orientations,
tours and social activities on the Friday and Saturday, and a field trip on the Sunday. These are a formal part
of the program, and all students are required to attend.
ACADEMIC & ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS
ACADEMIC CALENDAR
The 2016-17 Academic Calendar can be found on our website.
CREDIT
All Undergraduates
Every student’s academic program must be approved by the Middlebury-CMRS academic staff. Students are
not permitted to take lighter loads, nor will they receive additional credit for heavier loads.
Middlebury Undergraduates
Middlebury College students receive four units of credit for the fall semester and five units of credit for the
winter/spring semester and nine units of credit for the academic year. Where J-term equivalency credit is
awarded, reduced course loads result in the loss of this credit as well.
To receive major credit for courses taken abroad, you need to bring the following information back with you:
a.
b.
c.
d.
Course syllabi
Reading lists
Course work
Any other material you think will be useful in determining the course content
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Students from Other Colleges and Universities
Middlebury College considers a semester /academic year abroad equivalent to a semester/academic year in
the U.S. Students who transfer their credits to other institutions typically receive 15-16 credit hours per
semester or 20-25 quarter units per semester for a full course load. Because an undergraduate student’s home
institution determines the number of credits awarded for work abroad, students are urged to consult with
their advisers well ahead of time.
ACADEMIC PROGRAMS
Students take four courses at Middlebury-CMRS. During Oxford term they take one Seminar, and two oneto-one essay Tutorials each week. Students also take a Research Course, which is scheduled at the start of the
Autumn Semester, and the end of the Spring Semester.
Students are required to choose a first and second choice of seminar, because each seminar is run only if a
sufficient number of students select it.
Note that once you arrive in Oxford, it is highly unlikely that you will be able to change courses.
Please thoroughly read the Middlebury-CMRS Plagiarism Policy.
The academic staff at Middlebury-CMRS will be available throughout the semester to answer your questions;
do not hesitate to contact them. For further information about academic matters, you can also see
http://www.cmrs.org.uk/students/current-students/academic
ACADEMIC RESOURCES
Middlebury-CMRS students have access to the Bodleian Library system, to Keble College Library, and to the
programme’s own Feneley Library. Students are able to access the Bodleian’s electronic resources within the
library itself, and can access Middlebury College’s electronic resources from any computer. Introductions to
all the library resources form part of the orientation programme. Further information about using libraries is
at http://www.cmrs.org.uk/students/current-students/academic/using-other-oxford-libraries-1
LEARNING OUTSIDE THE CLASSROOM
As associate members of Keble College, one of Oxford’s largest colleges, Middlebury-CMRS students are
able to participate fully in university life. At Keble, a short walk from St. Michael’s, students can take meals at
the dining hall, relax in the common room, work out in the fitness room, and study in the Victorian library
and reading rooms.
Many students also join Keble sports teams and clubs, such as the college choir, the drama society, and the
college newspaper. Students also have access to all branches of Oxford’s Bodleian Library, as well as
university-wide sporting facilities and student associations. Throughout the semester, Middlebury-CMRS
administrators create opportunities for cultural activities and access to local events, concerts, and theatrical
performances.
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LIVING IN ENGLAND
HOUSING
Housing is provided for students in shared rooms in St. Michael’s Hall. All rooms are comfortably furnished
with linen, duvets (comforters) and blankets provided. You must bring your own towels (or purchase upon
arrival) and are responsible for laundering your own clothes.
The Middlebury-CMRS Roommate Questionnaire will be used to help match you with a suitable roommate.
Your accommodation details, address, contact telephone number, and roommate’s details will be emailed to
you just before the start of the semester.
MEALS
Full board is not included in the Middlebury-CMRS fees. Students swipe their Bodleian card and are billed
monthly in arrears by Keble College for what they have eaten. Middlebury-CMRS will provide the first £30 of
meals eaten at Keble; students will be responsible for paying the remainder of their Keble bills.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner are available in the Dining Hall at Keble College each weekday during the tenweek university term, with brunch and dinner on Saturdays and Sundays. Dinner from Sunday to Friday is
‘formal’ and members of college are required to wear academic gowns, which are supplied by MiddleburyCMRS. Out of term time special arrangements apply, but Middlebury-CMRS students will be welcome
whenever meals are available.
Keble also boasts its own Café which serves a variety of hot and cold drinks, soup, sandwiches, panini,
biscuits, fruit and muffins, and is a delightful place to meet friends. Payment in Café Keble may be by swipe
card or in cash.
Keble College advises that an allowance of £10 per day would be more than adequate if you were to take all
three cooked meals. There is no fixed charge for meals, but the following should give you a good idea (prices
quoted are subject to change to reflect market costs):



Breakfast items are priced individually, but if you were to choose everything, the total would be £1.25
- £1.50 per day.
Lunch has various options – the set lunch of two courses at £2.30. Alternative choices usually
include pizza, pasta, and salads, which are priced individually.
Dinner can be either two courses at £3.86, or three courses at £4.45, except Sundays when only three
courses are offered at £4.95 for the meat option, and £4.45 for the vegetarian option.
There are also modern kitchen and dining facilities in St. Michael’s Hall for student use. An allowance of £40
per week should be adequate for self-catering, but if you plan to eat out regularly, the cost will be
considerably higher.
KEBLE COLLEGE
As Associate Members of Keble College, Middlebury-CMRS students are part of the student body (called the
JCR, or Junior Common Room), and are able to use Keble student facilities, such as the student bar, café,
gym etc. The main premises of Keble are about an eight minute walk from St. Michael’s Hall. Many students
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join Keble student activities, such as sports and music. Students are also able to join Oxford-wide student
activities, such as sports, drama, music, and many other clubs covering a very wide range of interests.
TRAVEL WITHIN THE UNITED KINGDOM
Middlebury-CMRS students often find it possible to travel during the semester. In particular, Oxford is in
easy reach of London. However, we advise you to be cautious in making bookings before you arrive in
Oxford and finalize your academic schedule. Academic commitments will not be rearranged to suit travel
plans.
MEETING THE ENGLISH
Former Middlebury-CMRS students emphasize the benefits participating in Keble sports teams and clubs,
which helped them make local friends and immerse themselves in Oxford life. Examples of activities include
the college choir, theatre productions, and the college newspaper. Students also have access to all branches of
Oxford’s Bodleian Library, as well as university-wide sporting facilities and student associations, such as the
famed debating society, the Oxford Union.
TRAVELING IN EUROPE
If you plan to travel to other countries, be advised that regulations regarding necessary visas or entry and exit
permits vary and may change at very short notice. Consult a travel agent or the corresponding country’s
consulate and/or embassy for current procedures.
Hitchhiking anywhere is strongly discouraged as a matter of College policy. The practice is regarded by
European security officials to be extremely unsafe and is often illegal. Buses and trains provide a low-cost,
safe alternative.
WORKING IN ENGLAND
Students studying at Middlebury-CMRS will not be allowed to work during the semester. Students who enter
the UK on a US passport with a Short-term Study Visa, or as a Short-term Student on Arrival, are not
allowed to work in the UK. Students who enter the UK on a US passport with a Tier 4 visa will be allowed
to work during the vacation or at the end of the course for as long as the Tier 4 Visa is valid.
END OF SEMESTER
The Thursday before the end of the semester is usually the last day of classes. Students should vacate their
rooms before 12 noon on the Saturday indicated on the Calendar.
Middlebury-CMRS regrets that it cannot store luggage for students who have completed their studies or who
are returning for the following semester. Many past students have used Personal Storage on the Botley Road.
HEALTH AND SAFETY
HOSPITALS AND MEDICAL SERVICES
All students are registered at the medical practice at 28 Beaumont Street, only a five-minute walk from St.
Michael’s Hall and offers a full range of medical services. Middlebury-CMRS students are treated as private
patients unless registered for at least six months, which entitles you to free care under the National Health
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Service. A direct billing scheme is in place, so you must take your HTH Insurance card to all appointments.
On-site staff will assist you in arranging appointments.
PSYCHOLOGICAL HEALTH AND COUNSELING
Students should be very realistic about their abilities to function in a cross-cultural environment. It can be
difficult to live abroad and, rather than disappearing in the new surroundings, conditions like depression and
eating disorders are often exacerbated by a stay in another country. Psychological counseling services are
available, and if you find yourself in need, you should ask our on-site staff for referrals. Students with
particular concerns in this area are encouraged to consult with International Programs at Middlebury College
prior to departure.
SAFETY
In all situations abroad, it will take you a while to figure out who's who. At home you can tell pretty quickly if
a new acquaintance is someone you want to get to know better or can trust, or if this new acquaintance spells
trouble. When you are in another country you will lack the cultural background needed to make these
determinations and may miss some signals, especially at the beginning of your stay.
In other words, use common sense. As a foreign student, you should take the same precautions you would in
any city, anywhere in the world, for example, use the “buddy system”, and even if no one is driving, have a
designated sober person who makes sure everybody gets home safely after a night out. During orientation,
we will address the issue of security in greater depth. Middlebury does not permit students to travel, even
independently and even while on break, to areas under a State Department Warning while enrolled in the
program abroad.
SEXUAL ASSAULT AND HARASSMENT
Foreign women abroad need to be a bit more cautious than they would at home, keeping in mind that in a
foreign context, actions that we consider “normal” can be taken as overly forward or inappropriate. Be
careful to avoid putting yourself in situations that might be misinterpreted.
A recent study has shown that studying abroad may increase your risk of unwanted sexual contact. The
Department of State has this to say: http://studentsabroad.state.gov/smarttravel/forwomentravelers.php
Our on-site staff is your primary resource for advice to keep yourself safe and can also direct you to local
support resources.
MONEY AND BANKING
CURRENCY EXCHANGE
All estimates in this handbook are based on an exchange rate of £1.54. This is an approximate rate of
exchange at the time of publication. However, the exchange rate may change between now and when you
arrive in England.
MONEY AND BANKING
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You should make arrangements for your travel funds early. For your initial expenses, experience suggests
that you should have immediate access to approximately £200.
It is a good idea to obtain a credit card for use in England. Visa is the most widely accepted card in the
United Kingdom and Europe. MasterCard is also accepted. American Express is valid in most of the larger
establishments within larger cities, but in smaller cities it is less known.
Throughout the United Kingdom and Europe it is possible to use credit and debit cards to get cash from a
bank during business hours or from ATMs. Students should make sure their cards are valid for international
cash use. Ask your bank if you will need a valid international PIN. Check what the daily (and in some
cases weekly) limit is for withdrawing funds, as well as the bank fee charged per withdrawal. Also notify your
bank before you leave so they will know you will be using your ATM and credit cards overseas and will not
cancel or block them after the first use.
We have found that the following financial arrangements have also proven useful for our students:



Students who wish to open a bank account in the UK should inquire with the Middlebury-CMRS
staff. Normally only full-year students open bank accounts, as this can be a complicated and lengthy
process.
American Express moneygrams, which are wired instantly to the Amex office, can be exchanged with
no problem.
A pre-loaded card, such as the one advertised at Travelex.
Each of the above options will incur charges and/or commissions.
You should NOT have money sent to you in the form of money orders, bank drafts, or treasurers’ notes.
You will encounter great difficulty and delay in cashing them.
EMERGENCY CASH
BEFORE you leave, you should discuss with your family a plan for getting more money in an emergency
situation. Check Western Union details and service fees, credit card services, and ATM availability.
COMMUNICATION WITH HOME & FRIENDS
COMMUNICATION AND IMMERSION
Students who seek maximum immersion should note that regular communication with home can significantly
hinder your adjustment to the new culture. If your goal is maximum immersion, you should prepare family
and friends for the reality that you may be difficult to contact and that, even when possible, frequent calling,
e-mailing, and instant messaging will interfere with your cultural immersion.
MAIL
Students may receive their mail at the following address:
Your Full Name
Middlebury-CMRS
St. Michael’s Hall
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Shoe Lane
Oxford
OX1 2DP
England
It is inadvisable to send parcels via Courier; whenever possible use a Regular or Priority Postal Service. A
priority postal service can be tracked so is a more secure service than regular post.
Certain items mailed from the USA, particularly new clothing/books and other goods (ideally removed from the
original wrapping and any labels removed) should be clearly marked as ' a gift', ‘used’ and ‘of no commercial
value’ with a declaration form stuck to the parcel showing a nominal value, for example: $1. Items with a
higher value or not marked in this way are likely to be stopped at Customs and an import levy charged against
them – often a large sum of money.
Middlebury-CMRS will not knowingly accept mail with a payment due. This advice stands whether you
choose to use a courier or postal service.
TELEPHONE
Each study bedroom in St. Michael’s Hall has a telephone for incoming and internal calls. Once
accommodation has been allocated, you will be given your telephone number to pass on to your family and
friends.
Pre-paid telephone calling cards are also readily available to purchase and will work with payphones located
near St. Michael’s Hall to place calls back to the USA from the UK.
CELL PHONES
Students often purchase international mobile (cell) phones once they arrive in the UK. There are many shops
in the immediate vicinity of Middlebury-CMRS where they are readily available to purchase either on contract,
pre-paid or pay-as-you-go, from as little as £10. Occasionally students who have brought mobiles with them
have encountered problems connecting internationally and/or locally, even though their US provider has told
them it would work, and of course it is always more difficult to rectify this kind of problem when overseas.
Students wishing to make regular calls overseas may find it more convenient to use an Internet Instant
Messenger Service.
LOCAL INFORMATION
EMERGENCY NUMBERS & ADDRESSES
Emergency: Call 999
Medical:
Drs. Matthew Easdale, Clare Stephenson, Chloe Borton and Robin Barr
28 Beaumont Street
Oxford
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OX1 2NP
Surgery: 01865 311 811
Fax: 01865 310327
Out of Hours: 0845 345 8995
http://www.28beaumontstreet.co.uk/opening-times.aspx?t=3#emergency
TRAVEL & TRANSPORTATION

For buses within Oxford, see http://www.oxfordbus.co.uk/.

To get to London you can take the train (nicer but rather more expensive), or there are two coach
companies: http://x90.oxfordbus.co.uk/ and http://www.oxfordtube.com/. Check for student
discounts and buying multi-journey tickets. For many sites in London, it is best to take the X90 to
Baker Street, then take a tube from there, rather than going all the way to Victoria Coach station; the
Oxford Tube doesn't stop at Baker Street.

If you're thinking of trips within the UK, the earlier you start planning, the less money you will have
to pay. The main national coach company is http://www.nationalexpress.com/home.aspx. The
official train site is http://www.nationalrail.co.uk/. This site may or may not be a cheaper way to
buy train tickets: http://www.thetrainline.com/.

Youth hostels are often the best cheap places to stay overnight http://www.yha.org.uk/, but we
advise you not to stay overnight in London: it is expensive, and coaches back to Oxford go almost all
through the night. London is so close to Oxford that students often make several day trips. Keep
overnight stays as an option if you are travelling further afield.

If you are travelling in London, get a pre-payment Oyster card at any Tube station; this is the least
expensive way to use public transport in the capital: http://www.tfl.gov.uk/fares-andpayments/oyster?cid=fs076

If you are interested in cycling and purchasing a bicycle, try Summertown Cycles or Cycle King and
ask about ‘buy-back’ options. For second-hand cycles, then see DailyInfo and Gumtree. Assume that
you will not be able to make your money back by selling it at the end of three months. You must also
budget for lights, a helmet and a lock. You must familiarize yourself with traffic regulations and road
safety advice before using a bicycle: talk to Middlebury-CMRS on-site staff about this. A resource for
Oxford cyclists is http://www.cyclox.org/ (although you do not need to join the group).
OTHER USEFUL INFORMATION
Shopping, bookstores, department stores, etc:
http://www.cmrs.org.uk/students/current-students/general-welfare1/copy_of_TheSeniorTutorsGuidetoShopsandShoppinginOxford.pdf
Places of Worship:
http://www.cmrs.org.uk/students/current-students/general-welfare-1/Churches201213.pdf
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Alternative Accommodation in Oxford (note that visiting friends and family will not be able to stay with you
in St. Michael’s Hall):
http://www.cmrs.org.uk/students/current-students/general-welfare-1/OxfordAccommodationListSpr13.pdf
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