Living in Qatar
Health and Wellness
Georgetown’s commitment to educating the whole person extends to providing Health and Wellness services and facilities for personal fitness, athletics, health care and counseling. Recreational facilities can be found at the Qatar Foundation Recreation Center, located on the west side of Education City.
International Students
Since its founding in 1919, the School of Foreign Service has attracted students from around the globe. Today, over 130 nationalities are represented in the Georgetown community – and over two dozen alone at GU-Q.
GU-Q is committed to helping international students through the process of immigration, acculturation, and community-building. For further details, please see our international student page.
If you have any further questions, contact GU-Q Student Affairs.
Student Safety
Student Safety is of the utmost importance to everyone at GU-Q and Qatar Foundation. There is 24-hour security provided on the Education City campus as well as in each student housing complex. In addition to these measures, there is an ambulance service located on campus as well as a health clinic.
Career Development
Students have the opportunity to work on and off campus during their time at GU-Q. These positions can be found in the Career Development section under On-Campus Employment Program.
Office of Academic Services
Assistance and tutoring is available for all students through the Office of Academic Services. The OAS staff, which includes students, specialize in helping students with study skills, academic writing, and subject-specific academic assistance.
On Campus Parking Information
Local students may obtain an Education City parking pass from GU-Q’s FM office. Email us for details.
Unless given a medical exemption, students may not use the faculty/staff parking lot under the GU-Q building between 6:00 am-5:00 pm on weekdays during the academic year. Parking violations may result in disciplinary action. Please note that parking in the VIP driveway or parking spaces is prohibited at all times. Shuttles will be available to transport students from designated spots around campus.
During the summer session only, students will be allowed to use the faculty/staff parking lot under the GU-Q building.
Opening a Bank Account
Education City has a branch of Qatar National Bank located at the Recreation Center. To open an account, students can visit any QNB office with the following documents:
- ID Copy (please note: copy should include the front and back sides of the ID)
- Student ID
- Passport Copy
Additionally, students must complete a form provided by QNB that includes information about the account as well as the account holder’s signature. To learn more about student accounts with QNB, please click here.
Cell Phones
There are two phone providers, Vodafone and Ooredoo (formerly Q-Tel), that will allow you to get a mobile line (SIM card) while in Qatar. You will find them in any major mall or in Carrefour. Note that in Qatar, phone charges for SMS are less than for phone calls. The person who initiates a phone call is charged for it, while the receiver of the call does not face any charges. Hint: You can check your balance with Ooredoo by dialing *129#
Questions
Have any questions about GU-Q organizations? Contact Us to learn more.