Planning to study in the UK? Great choice! The UK is currently one of the world’s top destinations for study travel destinations as they offer top-notch programs to international students. Every year, international students from all over the world immigrate to the UK for such amazing study opportunities and other exciting experiences. But sometimes, this move can be overwhelming, especially for those who have no relatives in the new country.
There’s a whole lot to learn about student life in the UK from setting up new accounts to visas and even to insurance. But don’t worry, we are giving a clearly broken down guide on how to go about this process. Let us look at the things you need to know about studying in the UK.
Dos
Do your Research:
Before you even set foot in the UK, it is important to do your research and learn as much as you can about the country and its culture. Here are some things you can research.
- The UK’s history and culture
- The different regions of the UK
- The British education system
- The cost of living in the UK
- The visa application process
- The job market in the UK
- The healthcare system in the UK
This will help you make a smooth transition and avoid any culture shock when you’re trying to understand your new environment.
Apply for a Student Visa:
If you are not from the European Economic Area (EEA), you will need to apply for a student visa before you can study in the UK. The visa application process can be complex, so it is crucial that you start early so as to give yourself time to carefully go over the process without any mistakes or complications. Here are some things you will need to do to apply for a student visa:
- Complete an online application form
- Provide proof of your financial support
- Provide proof of your acceptance to a UK university
- Pay the visa application fee
Find Accommodation:
Once you have your visa, you need to find somewhere to live. There are many different options available, so it is important to do your research and find something that is affordable and within your budget. Make sure you consider these factors when choosing an accommodation:
- The cost
- The location
- The size
- The amenities
- The security
Open a Bank Account:
You will need to open a bank account in the UK so that you can receive your student loan and other payments. There are many different banks to choose from, so it is important to shop around and find one that offers the best deal. Look out for these qualities before opening a bank account:
- Low fees
- Convenient location
- Good customer service
- ATM access
Get a National Insurance number:
A National Insurance number is a unique number that is used to track your employment and National Insurance contributions. You will need a National Insurance number if you want to work in the UK. To get a National Insurance number, you will need to apply online or in person at a Job center Plus office.
Register with a Doctor
It is important to register with a doctor as soon as possible after you arrive in the UK. This will ensure that you have access to medical care if you need it. To register with a doctor, you will need to go to your local GP surgery and bring your passport and visa.
Learn About The British Culture
The UK has a rich and diverse culture, and it is important to learn about it so that you can make the most of your time there. Some effective ways you can do this is by;
- Reading books and articles about British culture
- Watching British movies and TV shows
- Listening to British music
- Visiting museums and historical sites
- Talking to British people
- Getting involved in the community: One of the best ways to make friends and experience British culture is to get involved in the community. Here are some ways to get involved in the community:
- Joining a club or sports team
- Volunteering
- Attending cultural events
- Taking a language class
Travel Around the UK:
The UK is a small country, but it has a lot to offer. Make sure to take some time to travel around and explore all that it has to offer. Here are some popular tourist destinations in the UK:
London
Edinburgh
Manchester
Liverpool
Bath
Oxford
Cambridge
York
Stratford-upon-Avon
The Lake District
The Cotswolds
Don’ts
Don’t be Afraid to Ask for Help
If you are struggling with anything, don’t be afraid to ask for help. There are many resources available to help international students, such as your university, the British Council, and the National Union of Students.
Don’t compare yourself to other students
Everyone is different, and it is important to remember that you are not competing with anyone else. Just focus on doing your best and achieving your goals. You got this!
Don’t be afraid to make mistakes:
Everyone makes mistakes, so don’t let them hold you back. Just learn from them and move on.
Don’t isolate yourself:
It is important to make friends and connect with other international students. This will help you build community and make your time in the UK more enjoyable.