Welcome to Sigma University, Vadodara
Your Complete Guide for International Students
Empowering Global Minds, Building Bright Futures
Dear Student
Congratulations on joining Sigma University! We are thrilled to welcome you to our vibrant academic community in Vadodara, India. This guide is designed to help you settle into life at Sigma and make the most of your time here. Our team is committed to supporting you every step of the way.
We look forward to seeing you thrive academically, socially, and culturally at Sigma University.
Warm regards, [Your Name]
Head of International Admissions
Pre-Arrival Preparation
- Apply for a Student VISA (Sub-Type “S”) using your letter. admission
- Ensure you have all required documents: passport, academic transcripts, financial proof, and medical certificates.
- Note: FRRO registration will be handled by our team upon arrival.
Clothing for Weather:
- Summers (March–June): Lightweight cotton clothing (temperatures can reach 40°C/104°F).
- Monsoon (July–September): Waterproof jacket/umbrella (heavy rainfall expected).
- Winters (December–February): Light jackets or sweaters (temperatures range from 10°C–25°C/50°F–77°F).
- Essentials: Adapters for Indian power sockets (220V, 50Hz), basic medications, and personal hygiene products.
- On-campus: Priority for international students (hostels available).
- Off-campus: Verified listings provided by the university.
- Airport pickup service available from Vadodara (BDǪ) or Ahmedabad (AMD)
- Confirm your arrival details with us 72 hours in advance.
Arrival C Orientation
Complimentary transport from the airport to campus. Contact: [Maulik – +91 7486033303].
*FRRO Registration Assistance*:
- Our dedicated team will guide you through the process (bring your passport, VISA, and photos).
*SIM Card Setup*:
- Local providers (Jio/Airtel/Vi) will be available on campus for instant activation.
*Bank Account Assistance*:
- Partner banks (CBI) will help you open an account.
*Campus Tour*:
- Explore facilities like the library, labs, cafeteria, sports complex, and student hostels.
*Academic Introduction*:
- Meet faculty advisors, review attendance policies, and access IT resources.
*Cultural Integration*:
- Learn local customs, basic Hindi/Gujarati phrases, and safety tips.
Navigating Vadodara
- Auto-rickshaws, Ola/Uber, and local buses are affordable
- Use Google Maps for real-time navigation.
Vadodara, also known as the “Cultural Capital of Gujarat,” offers a rich variety of culinary experiences. Whether you’re craving traditional Gujarati dishes, international cuisines, or quick bites, there’s something for everyone.
*On-Campus Dining*:
The cafeteria offers vegetarian meals, including Indian staples like dal, rice, roti, and seasonal vegetables. Snacks and beverages are available throughout the day. Inform the staff about dietary restrictions (e.g., halal, vegan, gluten-free).
*Local Cuisine*:
Gujarat is known for its predominantly vegetarian cuisine, but Vadodara also caters to diverse tastes. Popular dishes include:
- Gujarati Thali: A complete meal with dal, kadhi, sabzi, rice, roti, farsan, and
- Street Food: Try dabeli, pav bhaji, khaman dhokla, and falooda at Raopura Market or Sayaji Baug.
- Non-Vegetarian Options: Chicken biryani, kebabs, and fish curries are available at select restaurants like Barbeque Nation or Spice Terrace.
*International Cuisine*:
For students missing home-cooked meals or craving global flavours, Vadodara has several restaurants offering continental, Asian, Middle Eastern, and Italian dishes.
*Dietary Considerations*:
Most restaurants offer vegetarian Vegan, halal, and gluten-free options are available but less common. Always confirm with the staff.
*Grocery Shopping*:
If you prefer cooking your own meals, visit supermarkets like Reliance Fresh, Big Bazaar, or D-Mart. Local markets like Raopura Market are great for fresh produce, spices, and snacks.
*Tips for Eating Out*:
- Budget-friendly street food stalls and small eateries are affordable, with meals costing ₹50–₹200 ($0.60–$2.50).
- Mid-range restaurants charge ₹300–₹800 ($4–$10), while fine dining costs ₹1,000+ ($12+).
- Choose clean, busy restaurants for safer food. Avoid raw/uncooked foods from street vendors if you’re unsure.
Must-visit places: Lukshmi Villas Palace, Sayaji Baug, Vadodara Museum.
Academic Life
24/7 access to the library, advanced labs, and Wi-Fi across campus.
- Mentorship programs and counselling services are available.
- Free Hindi/Gujarati language classes for daily communication.
- Minimum 75% attendance is mandatory.
- Plagiarism policies: Familiarize yourself with academic integrity guidelines.
Cultural Integration
Join Navratri Garba celebrations, Diwali festivities, and other cultural events.
- Dress modestly, especially in rural areas.
- Greet with “Namaste” (hands folded) or a simple handshake.
- Use your right hand for eating/greeting as it’s considered respectful.
- Public displays of affection are not common in India.
- Be mindful of religious practices (e.g., removing shoes before entering temples).
Health C Well-being
- Hydration: Stay hydrated during summers to avoid heatstroke.
- Monsoon Care: Avoid walking barefoot in puddles to prevent infections.
- Winter Warmth: Layer clothing instead of heavy coats for mild winters.
- University clinic for basic medical care.
- Nearby hospitals: Surya Hospitals, Akshar Healthcare, Sayajirao General Hospital.
- Consider health insurance that covers hospitalization and emergencies.
- Drink bottled or filtered water.
- Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before consumption.
- Carry a small first-aid kit with essentials like pain relievers and antiseptics.
- Counselling services are available on campus.
- Join student clubs and activities to build a support network.
Safety C Well-being
- University Security: [Insert Number]
- Police: 100 | Ambulance: 108 | Fire: 101
- Beware of unsolicited calls/messages. Report suspicious activity to the International Office.
- Always use verified transportation services like Ola/Uber.
Vadodara is generally safe, but women should take precautions:
- Avoid traveling alone late at night.
- Use trusted transportation services.
- Counselling services are available on campus.
- Join student clubs and activities to build a support network.
Other Important Information
- Indian Rupee (INR) is the local currency.
- ATMs are widely available, and most places accept digital payments (UPI, cards).
- Hindi and Gujarati are widely spoken.
- English is commonly used in urban areas and on campus.
India Standard Time (IST): UTC+5:30.
- Wi-Fi is available across campus.
- Local SIM cards provide affordable data plans (Jio/Airtel/Vi).
- Popular malls: Inorbit Mall, Reliance Mall.
- Markets: Raopura for affordable shopping, Mandvi for traditional textiles.
Appendices
- *Pre-Arrival*: Passport, visa, academic documents, adapters, medications.
- *Post-Arrival*: Attend orientation, explore Vadodara, join student clubs.
- Campus layout (insert map here).
- Vadodara city map highlighting key landmarks.
- *Namaste*: Traditional greeting (hands folded).
- *Auto-rickshaw*: Three-wheeled vehicle for short-distance travel.
- *Garba*: Traditional dance performed during Navratri.
