Internationals Form is open to internationals, but deciding to apply for form can be the beginning of a journey. Here are a few things to prayerfully  consider:
Getting the right visa
- USA: it is not easy to get a work visa, unless you have a job already lined up, with paperwork filled out by your new boss. So you would have to look into the other types, such as a vacation / travelling visa. These are sometimes limited to only a few months, and so you would need to leave the country a couple of times during the year to get a new one.
- Europe: it is easier to get a work visa, but this still needs some careful consideration. (See ‘Money’ below)
- form is not recognised by a formal institution (e.g. a University) so you will not be eligible for a Student / study visa.
- But that’s not a problem! We're happy to investigate the options with you.
Money
- USA: As you will not be able to work here, you may like to consider how you finance your year with us. For example, you might like to find someone to sponsor your trip, or save up between now and September. Also, as the course is two days a week, and having a job is a major part of form, we would look to find you a voluntary position (e.g. with a charity, or with the church). This will give you the opportunity to put into practice what you learn at form, and it will give you a work / life balance.
- Europe: You will probably need to open a bank account while you are here so you can be paid. Bring with you as many details as you can (Birth Certificate, current bank details).
- Can I also recommend that you bring your ‘curriculum vitae’ / ‘resume’ with you, because you will need it for applying for jobs (various websites can help you translate your qualifications, so you know the equivalent standards in the UK).
The form fees are £900. This amount includes:
o all teaching resources and notes
o lunch one day a week, breakfast one day a week
o end of term fun events (e.g. Christmas dinner, ice-skating)
o expenses for local / day missions
o but not the end of year mission trip (the location varies each year and as a result so does the cost)
You need to consider living costs too.
If you live in a shared house with other form trainees, the cost could be something like these:
Form fees (08-09): £950
Housing (based on a shared house of four):
o Rent £230 / month = £2760
o Bills £120 / month = £1440
o Food £80 / month = £960
Leisure & travel £90 / month = £1080
Total £7190
If you live with a church family as a lodger, costs could be something like:
Form fees (08-09): £950
Housing:
o Rent £200 / month = £2400
o Bills £100 / month = £1200
o Food £60 / month = £720
Leisure & travel £90 / month = £1080
Total £6350
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