Registry Services

Registry Services are a function within the Registry team. We can help students with replacement uCards and letter requests.

Student uCard replacement

Lost your Student uCard? No worries — just fill out the uCard Replacement Form to get a new one. There’s a £10 replacement fee, which will be charged to your Student Finance account. Once you’ve submitted the form, your new card will be ready in about 3 working days. Registry Services will contact you when your card is ready to collect.

Remember to keep your new uCard safe — you’ll need it for access to buildings, borrowing books, and other essential services!

Student letter requests: what’s available

As a current student, you may occasionally need official letters to confirm your student status or support applications for things like bank accounts, council tax, or visas. Please be aware that you must have completed your registration to be issued with a letter. Below are the types of letters you can request:

Bank letter

Provides confirmation of your student status and includes your term-time address. This is typically required for overseas students when opening a bank account in the UK.

Council tax exemption letter

For full-time students living in private accommodation who may be eligible for council tax exemption or discount. This letter confirms your student status and can be provided to your local council. Part-time students are not eligible for council tax exemption therefore requests from part-time students will not be processed.

Please note: council tax exemptions are granted at the discretion of your local authority. Providing this letter does not guarantee exemption.

Graduation letters for visa purposes

This is only issued after your results have been approved by University Senate and you have accepted your invitation to your Graduation ceremony. Details on how to request a Graduation letter are available here.

Proof of enrolment letter

Confirms that you’re currently enrolled on your course, it includes details such as your course title, level of study, term time address, and the start and expected end date of your course.

Schengen visa support letter

If you are an international student planning to travel to Europe during your studies, you may need to apply for a Schengen visa. To support your application, the University can provide a Schengen visa support letter, which confirms your student status and other relevant details required by embassies.

This letter is available to current students with valid immigration permission to study in the UK (e.g. a Student visa) who are enrolled on a full-time course. The letter can only be issued if you are fully registered and meeting the conditions of your visa.

How to request a letter

Letters can be requested using the Student Letter Request form. Most requests are processed within 5 working days. If you need additional or specific details included, your request may take up to 10 working days while we verify the information. We recommend submitting your request well in advance, especially if the letter is required for appointments, visa applications, or travel purposes. Letters will only include information held on your student record relating to your studies. Please do not submit duplicate request forms as this will create a backlog and may cause delays.

Receiving your letter

Your letter(s) will be emailed to your Buckingham university email address.

If you’re unsure which type of letter you need or have questions about your request, Registry Services are here to help. You can contact us at:
Phone: +44 (0)1280 820221
Email: Registry-Services@buckingham.ac.uk

Frequently asked questions

Where are Registry based?

The Registry team is based in Istra Cottage and is usually open Monday to Friday (excluding bank holidays) from 09:00 to 16:00.

Can someone collect my uCard on my behalf?

No, we will only hand your new uCard over to you, this is so we can ensure that you receive the new card.

How do I request a letter?

You can request a letter by completing the Student Letter Request form. Make sure you provide all the required information to avoid delays.

How long will it take to receive my letter?

Most letters are processed within 5 working days. If you need additional details included, it may take up to 10 working days while we verify the information.

Can you send my letter directly to another organisation (e.g. embassy, landlord, employer)?

No, we only send letters directly to students. You are welcome to forward the letter once you receive it.

Can I request a letter if I have outstanding tuition fees?

No, please contact the Student Fees team before submitting your request.

I’ve finished my course — can I still request a letter?

If you have completed your studies, we can issue you with an award verification letter. Please note that letter can only be issued after your results have been confirmed by the University senate. Please refer to our Registry Services for Alumni webpage for more information.