People travel from all over the world to come to the UK and study. From getting to know the area and how ‘British life’ works to learning a brand new language. This can be both daunting and exciting at the same time but can also be overwhelming especially when you feel like you are on your own.
However, some handy tips can make this transition into the UK and university life easier and we have listed them all in one place. In this post, we share some of our top tips for international students who are planning to move to the UK or have already moved to the UK. Either way, we can help you fit right in and achieve your goals!
1: Conducting the correct research
Before moving to the UK, you have probably done enough research into the ins and outs of your university to last you a lifetime. However, don’t forget to conduct research into the City you are planning to reside at. Some of the important things to have a look at including the average rent prices in the area, crime rates and even the best places to eat! It’s always best to conduct the correct amount of research before coming to the UK so you are prepared when you arrive.
2: The University Grading System
The grading system that is used in universities in the UK may differ from the grading systems in other countries. It can be confusing for a lot of students and it’s always best to have some knowledge around how it works, so you know what you are aiming for. Here is a brief breakdown of how the grading system works:
- First Class (1st/70+%)- The ‘First’ is the highest honours degree achievable. Students who achieve this degree are in the strongest position for post-graduate studies and employment
- Upper Second-Class (2.1/60-69%)- The Upper Second-Class honours also puts you in a good position when it comes to post-graduate employment and is the minimum requirement for entry to postgraduate courses.
- Lower Second-Class (2.2/50-59%)- The 2:2 is the more common degree achieved by students at university and is the lower level of the second class degree
- Ordinary Degree- This degree is often achieved however is awarded without honours.
Read more: How to get a first class degree
3: Student Visas and Other Paperwork
Sorting out your student visa marks the onset of your journey to the UK and is a very important tip for new students arriving to the UK (depending on which country you are coming from). The most common student visa type for International students is the standard student visa (Tier 4) which allows you to work part-time and apply for healthcare. However other student visas to apply for include a short-term study visa (lasts 6 to 11 months) and a Tier 4 child student visa (for students aged 4 to 17).
4: Healthcare
Healthcare/insurance is often missed and overlooked by many international students. In the UK, International students can access the National Healthcare Service (NHS), which is the country’s most popular healthcare systems. By applying for health insurance, you won’t face any unpredicted and hidden costs if you ever get into an emergency. Choose the closest GP practice to you and register as soon as you can. The UK also has various private healthcare institutions available too.
Read more: How to stay healthy at university
5: Managing your finances and budgeting
Planning out how you want to spend your budget (whether that be weekly or monthly) is a great way to manage your finances when you arrive in the UK. Before you arrive, it’s a good idea to research the local prices of popular services or items (such as travel, rent and food). It is easy to lose track of what you’ve spent your money on and by creating a budget you can manage this effectively.
Another tip would be to create a student bank account. Although many banks cater to people Internationally, it’s always best to look into a bank account that is more feasible for you. When choosing which bank to go with, consider these points to help make the best decision:
- The bank’s overdraft limit
- Any Associated perks
- If you can open a savings account alongside
- Check your credit rating before applying for the bank account
Read more: Money saving tips for university students
6: Learning the ‘British’ language
When you first arrive in the UK, you may hear some phrases and word’s you have never come across. Although not mandatory, it’s helpful to learn some slang (phrases and words regarded as informal) to help you communicate with other students and you won’t get lost in a conversation!
7: Student Accommodation
Make sure to have your student accommodation booked and sorted before arriving in the UK. Almost all universities provide on and off-campus accommodation options and it’s always a good idea to explore the options they have available. Some of the options you can choose from include:
- Private Student Accommodation
- Off-campus Accommodation
- Student Halls
- University-Owned/Onsite Accommodation
- Renting a regular studio, flat or house
Read more: Top Tips For Making Friends In Your Student Accommodation
8: Keep in contact with Friends and Family back home
For many international students, the feeling of homesickness is inevitable. Mobile and computer applications such as Microsoft Teams, Skype, Zoom and Whatsapp are fantastic and can help you keep in touch with friends and family back home. Keeping in contact can help improve your mental wellbeing as well as having that extra support.
9: Don’t be afraid to ask for help
It’s easy to jump right into trying to sort everything out when you first arrive such as accommodation, getting to know the area properly and going to university. This can become overwhelming especially when you feel as if you are alone. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, whether this be for your emotional wellbeing or trying to find something out. People who are there for you when you need them include the University (and your tutors), friends and family back home and even your flatmates.
Read more: What to do if you’re struggling with university?
Summary: top tips for International students
Moving to a new country can be a whirlwind of an adventure and time spent at university/in education is a memory to cherish for a life time. It is easy to fall into the trap of rushing everything when it comes to planning and moving which can become a problem long-term (e.g. not finding the right apartment).
Make sure you conduct the correct research and the correct amount of it to make sure that you are fully prepared for when you arrive to the UK. Following these tips will help make that journey smoother.
Written by Sana Mahmood
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