Frequently Asked Questions
The Programme
Where is LIYSF held?
LIYSF is held at Imperial College London, South Kensington campus in central London.
What does the fee include?
This covers accommodation in a University Hall of Residence including dinner, bed and breakfast. Lunch boxes are provided except on the days of the Opening and Closing Ceremonies. A London Travel Pass is provided for travel on buses and underground trains in Central London (Zone 1) for programmed events. The participation fee also covers the full programme of Lectures, Demonstrations, Seminars and Visits (including transport out of London), together with the social programme, maps and other necessary documentation.
What are the requirements for me to attend LIYSF?
1. Participation is open to students of science born between 27th July 1989 and 10th August 1994.
2. LIYSF is conducted throughout in English and participants should have a good knowledge of the language.
3. Students should have a keen interest in Science with a reference from their school.
What are the optional excursions?
Optional extra visits are offered as follows
Day trips to Salisbury and Stonehenge
Sightseeing tour of London
Theatre visits
Day trip to Hampton Court Palace and Windsor.
Is there a dress code?
No official dress code, students should however dress smartly for the opening and closing ceremony. Please bring clothing and footwear appropriate for wet and dry weather.
Can I get a supporting letter to help me obtain a visa?
Yes – please e-mail enquiries@liysf.org.uk to get this. Please ensure you organise your visa requirements as early as possible.
How do I get from the airport to the halls of residence?
An information pack will be provided prior to arrival detailing how participants can get from the airport to the halls of residence using public transport. Alternatively you can arrange a private transfer through us at an extra cost, email us at enquiries@liysf.org.uk outlining all details of your arrival and departure.
How much spare time is there?
You will find LIYSF offers a full programme and you will be kept very busy. There will be some free time which you can use as you please. In the past participants have explored the city with friends or relaxed and caught up on sleep!
Do we get a certificate of attendance?
Yes. All participants will be issued with a certificate after completing the forum.
How do I apply to become a staff member of LIYSF?
After LIYSF you can contact us at enquiries@liysf.org.uk for an application. Staff for the forthcoming year will be decided by 1st November.
I have submitted my options form - should I hear anything?
We do not acknowledge receipt of option forms, please ensure you e-mail us before 1st July. If we have not received your option form by 18th June we will contact you.
What time should I arrive on the arrivals day?
We advise participants to try and arrive between 10.00am - 16.00pm. This day is a registration and familarisation day, with a welcome address in the evening. Registraton is open from 10am, although your room may not be ready until later. Those students arriving after 18.00pm to the Halls of Residence should advise the LIYSF office of their late arrival in advance.
Accommodation
Where is the Accommodation?
All participants will stay at Imperial College London halls of residence. There are two sites, both on the main South Kensington campus where the accommodation will be situated.
How is the accommodation allocated?
It is LIYSF procedure, to split groups of four or more participants between halls. This ensures new friendship groups are formed and participants are given the opportunity to meet new people. All other allocations are made on a 'first come, first serve' basis. Halls of residence are located in walking distance of each other and the social programme ensures participants are familiar with both halls.
Do I need to bring towels or sheets?
No, clean towels and sheets are provided. Towels and sheets will be changed throughout the forum.
Will I be sharing a room?
No – all participants are accommodated in single rooms.
Are the bedrooms en-suite?
Some rooms are en-suite. Rooms are allocated on a first come first serve basis. For rooms that are not en-suite the halls of residence have shared bathroom facilities (single sex).
Is there a gym I can use in the halls of residence?
Yes, there are excellent sports facilities on campus. LIYSF students will be able to pay to use the facilities at Imperial College, at a special LIYSF participant rate. Gym is £5 per session and swimming is £5 per session. LIYSF participants can get a 10 visit card for £45. These arrangements are entirely between the participant and Imperial College and payment is made directly upon arrival at Ethos (sports facility on South Kensington campus).
Can I keep my belongings safe?
There are no safes in rooms, however each room is lockable and students are responsible for locking their rooms to ensure security.
Are there laundry facilities?
Yes there are laundry facilities in the halls of residence.
Can I stay for extra nights before or after LIYSF?
Yes, rooms in the halls of residence are availble for particpants that arrive before 16th August or leave after 30th August. These arrangments must be made with LIYSF in advance and before 1st July. Extra night accommodation includes dinner, bed and breakfast and costs £55 per night. Full payment must be made before 18th July. Please e-mail enquiries@liysf.org.uk for further information or to book a room.
Personal
How much spending money will I need?
All food, programme events and programme transport is included. Extra money may be required for optional excursions, additional food, souvenirs or gifts.
Is there internet in halls of residence?
All rooms are internet ready. If participants have their own laptop they can connect to the halls of residence intranet from their room. There is a one off £5 connection fee.
What if I’m homesick?
This is quite normal, please remember everyone is in the same position and the team of staff are available 24 hours a day to help with any problems you might have.
What happens if I have special dietary requirements?
Dietary requirements can be catered for, please contact us before hand and talk to your Hall LIYSF staff upon arrival. If you have a serious dietary requirement or allergy we recommend you bring provisions with you. All meat served is Halal.
Who do I turn to if I have problems during the forum?
Your team of LIYSF staff are experienced to deal with any problems, they have all be in your position and know what problems you might encounter and are available 24 hours a day. Each participant is given a buddy member of staff to be their contact.
How will I know where I’m going in London?
Maps are provided to you and your staff will assist to programmed events.
Will I be able to keep in touch with people I meet at the forum?
Yes – using the website, LIYSF Facebook group, Blog or Twitter.
Will I be able to call home?
We recommend you call home to confirm your arrival. Other calls are at your discretion during free time!
Are there options for me to stay longer and see more of Europe?
Yes – there is a CERN discovery programme available to LIYSF participants only. Please see this website for details, or e-mail enquiries@liysf.org.uk for further information.
What happens if I arrive before 16th August?
Additional accommodation at the halls of residence can be provided. Please see, "Can I stay for extra nights before or after LIYSF?" section above.
Can I visit family and friends during the forum?
You are welcome to do this during free time only and you must tell your LIYSF staff buddy.
Can my parents attend?
There are no places for parents to attend LIYSF as it’s a student only event.