10 Tips for International Students in the United Kingdom
Are you an international student about to start studying in the UK? Or perhaps you’re an existing student who is finding your feet in a new country? Check out our top 10 tips for making life as a foreign student in the UK easier! From organising your finances to finding your way around, we have what you need.
10 Tips for International Students in the United Kingdom
It can be a challenge to adjust to living and studying in the UK as an international student. Here are our top 10 tips for making life easier:
- Plan Your Funding and Research Scholarships
- Sort Your Student Accommodation
- Make Sure You Have Health Insurance
- Set up A Student Bank Account
- Work out The Cheapest Way to Make International Calls
- Familiarise Yourself with The Uk Education System
- Explore Your Local Area
- Apply for Student Discounts Where Possible
- Keep up To Date with Uk Immigration Rules and Regulations
- Make Time for Socialising and Networking
Plan Your Funding and Research Scholarships
Researching available scholarships and other sources of funding can help you to keep your costs down while studying in the UK. Many universities offer generous international scholarships and grants, so make sure you investigate your options before starting your studies. It’s also important to plan your budget carefully, taking into account your tuition fees and living costs.
Sort Your Student Accommodation
Finding the right student accommodation can be stressful for any student, especially for international students who may not be familiar with the area or the housing market. Check out our guide to finding student accommodation in the UK for helpful advice on finding a place to stay. It’s also important to check that your accommodation meets student living standards.
Make Sure You Have Health Insurance
Health insurance is essential for any international student studying in the UK. Make sure you are covered by applying for an appropriate health care plan before you arrive so that you can access medical services if needed during your time in the UK. Registering with a local GP as soon as possible is also important.
Set up A Student Bank Account
A student bank account is a great way to manage your money while you study in the UK. Most banks offer special accounts with features such as low or no fees and overdrafts, which can be helpful when times are tight. It’s important to shop around and compare the different types of accounts available, as well as consider what other services, such as online banking and mobile apps, may be useful to you.
Work out The Cheapest Way to Make International Calls
Making international calls can be expensive, so it is important to research your options before signing up for a phone plan. Several companies offer special rates for international calls, so make sure you shop around for the best deal! It is also worth considering using Skype, which is a great way to stay in touch with friends and family from home. But remember that the cost of calls can still add up, so make sure you manage your budget carefully.
Familiarise Yourself with The UK Education System
The UK has a different education system from many other countries, so it is important to familiarise yourself with the way it works before starting your studies. Read up on UK qualifications and types of courses offered to make sure you choose the right one. It is also a good idea to contact your university before you arrive so that you can find out more information. Also, remember to check the visa requirements for your course, as these can differ depending on the type of study.
Explore Your Local Area
Exploring your local area will help you get acquainted with the city and meet new people. Check out what activities are available in your neighbourhood and take advantage of any free days out or discounts that may be available to students. It’s also great to pick up tips about the best places to eat, shop, and socialise. Also, take the time to get to know your neighbours and make connections.
Apply for Student Discounts Where Possible
Many stores and restaurants in the UK offer student discounts, so make sure you take advantage of these if you can! It is also worth checking out any deals or promotions your university may be offering too. Furthermore, look into any cultural discounts that may be available to you as an international student. It could be a great way to save some money while you are studying in the UK.
Keep up To Date with UK Immigration Rules and Regulations
It is important to stay up-to-date with immigration rules and regulations while studying in the UK, as they can change over time. Make sure you keep an eye on any updates or changes to ensure that you remain compliant with the law. It is also worth keeping any important documents or evidence of your status in the UK, such as a valid passport, safe.
Make Time for Socialising and Networking
Making new friends while studying in the UK can be a great way to meet people from different cultures and backgrounds, so try to make time for socialising and networking. Joining a club or society at your university is a great way to meet new people and find out about the local area too! Moreover, attending events such as career fairs or industry talks can be a great way to network for future opportunities.
These are just a few tips for international students studying in the UK – make sure you do your research and familiarise yourself with the culture before embarking on your studies!
Bottom Line
Studying in the UK can be an exciting and rewarding experience for any international student. Make sure you take the time to prepare before starting your studies by researching available funding sources, sorting out accommodation and health insurance, and familiarising yourself with the UK education system. Additionally, don’t forget to keep an eye on immigration rules and regulations and make time for meeting new people!
