Whatever corner of the planet you’re from, studying in the UK provides huge possibilities, which is why it’s such a popular choice.
If you’re one of the 600,000+ students from foreign nations about to start your studies in the UK, there are quite a few things to tick off your to-do list to ensure you’re ready.
These include your visa, preparing for life in Britain, and health insurance.
Dive into our full guide to make your transition to UK education a breeze.
Tips for international students in the UK
For anybody starting university in the UK, there are lots of unknowns and a certain amount of anxiety. However, for foreign students travelling to Great Britain, there are even more uncertainties.
Wherever you’re travelling from, the below factors are key to helping you settle quickly into student life in the UK.
Student visa
Before 2021, anybody residing from a country outside the EU would require a visa to study in the UK. However, any foreign national now must apply for one.
According to UCAS, a student visa can take up to 15 days to be processed. If you’ve been approved at a university in the UK, you likely will have already applied for this. However, if your studies begin soon and you haven’t applied, you must do it immediately.
You must provide some documents when applying for a student visa, including:
- A valid passport or travel document
- English language skills certificate (usually by taking a Secure English Language Test)
- Confirmation of Acceptance of Studies (CAS)
- Proof of finances – must be able to prove you have enough money to pay for your first year of tuition.
If you have already applied for a student visa it’s been approved, you’re all set to travel. However, it’s best to just double check everything is in order.
Prepare for British life
Whatever corner of the world you’re travelling from, the UK will be different to you.
Universities in the UK have thousands of foreign students who can help you settle into life on the UK Isles. Check social media groups on Facebook and Reddit to try and make connections before your arrival.
The UK is also a lot colder than many realise so ensure you pack plenty of warm clothing to prepare yourself for a brisk winter. If you’re from a cold country then you’re all set in that department!
Have a read-up on the location you’ll be studying in; there’s a plethora of information online. Review websites like Tripadvisor have places of interest to visit as well as reviews, allowing you to get accustomed to your new home much easier.
There, you can also find out the best places to eat and drink, your nearest stores, and transport links that might be important for you.
Health insurance
To receive healthcare in the UK, foreign students must prove that they have health insurance.
This can be done with any existing health insurance you have paid for (i.e. UK EHIC). However, you can pay the health surcharge when applying for your student visa to give you access to the National Health Service (NHS).
Student bank account
While living in the UK, it’s recommended that you open a UK bank account. Not only will this make paying bills easier, but you’ll avoid any unnecessary foreign currency charges each time you make a transaction.
Some UK banks allow you to open a non-UK bank account to use while you’re living here. Try to get started on applying for this before travelling – it will only make things easier once you arrive.
Cheap international calls
Moving a long way from home can be difficult as you’re away from family and friends. However, you can easily keep in touch.
Purchasing a cheap UK sim on a low monthly price is a good way of staying in regular touch with family or using Wi-Fi connections to chat on messaging apps.
When you’re in your accommodation, you can use call apps like Zoom, Skype, and Facetime to stay in touch.
Public transport
Whatever city you’re moving to, there’ll be a public transport system in place that will mostly involve buses, but some major cities have a rail network in place too.
If you’re moving to the Greater Manchester region, TFGM has all the information you need regarding buses and trains. It features travel alerts, a journey planner which details each step of your travel, as well as schedules and tickets.
The UK also has a national travel network that can be accessed via coach or train. To save on train travel fares, apply for a student railcard or consider a Young Persons Coachcard.
Working hours
Finally, if you’re planning on working in the UK during your studies, your student visa will allow you to work up to 20 hours per week.
You’re able to work full-time during the holidays before and after your course starts but this may not be enough to live off.
Consider applying for an international student scholarship to keep your finances afloat.
Top quality accommodation
If you are coming to the UK to study, you’ll also need somewhere to live. At Orlando Village, we host many international students in our high-quality, spacious, modern bedrooms.
If you need a place to stay while you’re studying, consider Orlando Village. Contact us today and we’ll get back to you to discuss your needs.
Settling in packs
At Orlando Village, we understand that international students may come across luggage restrictions on their travels. This makes stocking up your accommodation difficult, so we’re here to offer you a helping hand with accommodation packs.
They include:
- Bedding Pack – Duvet and duvet cover, two pillows and pillowcases, and one fitted sheet.
- Dining Pack – One plate, bowl, pasta bowl, mug, glass, fork, knife, spoon and teaspoon.
- Cooking Pack – One pan, frying pan, chopping board, cooking knife, mixing spoon, colander, mixing bowl, and roasting sheet.
- Food essentials – Six bottles of water, dried pasta and rice, tomato pasta sauce, cereal, long-life milk, tinned beans, and instant coffee.
- Phone charger (must specify port type)
- Plug adaptor – 2-pin to 3-pin
- Water – Six bottles of 2-litre spring water
- Mini Fridge – 43L countertop fridge
To arrange any of the above, contact us.
