Just arrived? How to survive your first weeks in the UK...
The first few days and weeks in the UK can be exciting but also stressful. The information below provides some practical advice for dealing with student life.
AT THE UNIVERSITY
Welcome and Orientation: UK universities offer a comprehensive range of international student welcome services during the main arrival period in September. We would recommend that you schedule your arrival so that you can participate in the various orientation events on offer. Most university International Offices will provide you with a welcome pack, a tour of the campus and will host international social events. Check your university's International Office website for details of what they offer.
Academic Life: It may take you a while to adjust to UK methods of teaching and learning in universities. You can download this document for further information on what to expect.
View a document on Study Methods in the UK
Social Life: UK universities have a wide range of societies and clubs for students. You should be able to get a list of all the different societies and a schedule of social events from your University's Student Union.
Student Card: This card entitles you to discounts on travel, entertainment and in selected shops - make sure you get one from your University.
Telephone: Phoning home is costly however numerous phone cards are available in the UK offering cheap phone calls to overseas countries. Information can be found at www.1st-phonecards.co.uk/ Public payphones are available on all university campuses however most students either bring their own mobile or purchase one in the UK.
Transport: Coaches (buses) are cheaper than trains but not usually as fast. Rail prices vary considerably depending on time and day of travel so check before making journeys. Taxis are an expensive option, particularly in London.
For further information try the following websites:
Trains: www.nationalrail.co.uk
London travel: www.tfl.gov.uk
Coaches: www.nationalexpress.com
Study skills: It may take you a while to adjust to UK methods of teaching and learning in universities. You can download this pdf for further information on what to expect.
View a document on Study Methods in the UK
MONEY MATTERS
Your bank account: We recommend that you open a current account as soon as possible after arriving on campus so that we can make your stipend payments. Please note that you may experience delays in opening your account due to added security since 9/11. In order to facilitate the process you should bring evidence of your bank account at home, together with bank statements and payslips, if appropriate. We can provide a letter outlining the terms of you scholarship if this is needed.
Once you open an account you may apply for a cash-withdrawal card along with a cheque book. You will find a branch of one or more of the following banks near your home or university: NatWest, HSBC, Lloyds, Barclays, Co-op
You should check whether any of these banks offer special terms or services for students. We advise against applying for a credit card as interest rates are high and repayment frequently becomes a problem.
Cost of Living: Life in the UK is expensive, especially in London and other major cities. You will probably find yourself having to change your diet and life-style to some extent. Please note that you are likely to find life as a student quite different from the life you have left as a working person.
HEALTH & SOCIAL WELFARE
Doctors: Whilst a student, you are entitled to medical treatment under the National Health Service (NHS) in the same way as British citizens. You must register with a doctor at the Student Health Centre at your university, or with a doctor near to where you will be living. In order to register you must visit a doctor's surgery and ask to be included on his/her list. When you are accepted you will be sent a medical card with your NHS number. Once you have registered, consultations with the doctor are free, though a charge is made for prescriptions. You will normally have to make an appointment to see your doctor during consulting hours but if you are seriously ill, the doctor can be called out to see you. You should ensure that someone at your college and residence knows the name and number of your doctor in case of emergency.
Hospitals: You are entitled to free hospital treatment but this will normally have to be recommended by your doctor. In emergencies such as an accident, free treatment is available at those hospitals that have a casualty department.
Dentists: You do not need to register with a dentist but you cannot receive NHS dental treatments without having registration with a doctor and a NHS number. NHS patients have to pay 75% of the costs of treatment. Not all dentists accept NHS patients - so please check and phone for advice if necessary.
Opticians: Eye tests and glasses have to be paid for and are expensive.
Counselling and welfare: Universities have student counselling and welfare services. You should receive details from the Students' Union or when you register.
LIVING IN THE UK: CULTURAL & SOCIAL ASPECTS
Culture shock: Leaving home and travelling to study in a new country can be stressful and sometimes overwhelming. You can download this pdf 'International Students and Culture Shock' for some practical advice on how to deal with the challenges you may face during your time in the UK. These include dealing with the climate, food, language and social life in the UK.
View a document on International Students & Culture Shock
