As an international student in the UK, the study abroad experience can be both thrilling and intimidating. You will be encountering a few roadblocks but now you can easily overcome them. We have compiled a list of the things that you will want to do to make your life easier in the UK.
Accommodation check-in
There are three kinds of accommodation in London including university halls of residence, student flats as well as private landlords. For any of them, you will need to check in when you arrive. It is one of the best places to check the inventory of the flat. If you find any damage or discrepancies, you can take photos and also communicate with a landlord immediately.
Get a UK SIM Card
If you have not already gotten a UK SIM card delivered to you in your home country, do not feel troubled, you can still get one after arrival. First, find yourself a mobile network that is good for both local as well as international calls. The UK is known for a wide range of both major and secondary mobile network providers to select from. Your choice should also factor in your budget, the features you are looking for, and the offers they add. You will find a shop near your student accommodation in London. The major mobile network providers across the UK:
-
02
-
Vodafone
-
EE
-
Three
Register with your university
Your university will send you a registration guideline via email. Please make sure that you bring all the documents needed by your university while registering. You will then receive your student card and your future passport to the university.
Register with the police
It is always a great idea to register with the police. You can check with the entry visa vignette and see if it is required on arrival or later on. If you need to register once you reach, then you need to make an appointment online in advance and you will be provided with a police registration certificate once you have completed your registration. You will need this form to easily change your visa, move your house, or update any other kind of information.
Register with a general practitioner
It is also advisable to register with a GP. This will your doctor with any health issue you will face in the new place. You are entitled to free treatment from the National Health Service if you are pursuing higher studies in the UK for six months or more. If you fall in the UK, then the first thing is to visit the local GP and then go to the hospital. Only if your problem is serious then you will be guided to a hospital. You can search find a GP with the postcode of your student rooms in London and find someone nearby. Take your passport, letter of enrolment, and proof of address and they will register you with them.
Open a bank account
Another thing that you should consider as a student in the UK is opening a bank account. The UK has a mainly card-based economy which means you will need to carry less cash and have a card for all the purchases. Opening an account requires you to book an appointment, so you can either book through your bank’s mobile app or in person with the local bank teller. You will need to prepare all the required documents before you go to the bank including the passport, visa, student letter, and so on. You can go to the bank and they will guide you about what documents they need. Check out which are some of the best banks in the UK for international students if you want to enjoy maximum benefits.
Get a part-time job
If you want to have a wonderful life in the UK, then it is best to get a job in your hand. You can easily make money while studying by finding a suitable student job. However, look for something within your university or near your student housing in London. You will come across a wide range of part-time jobs for international students across the UK with flexible hours so that you can study, work, and also enjoy a social life. Looking for a job doesn’t only help you make more money, but it also helps you to easily adjust to the new environment. It is important for your growing CV too.
You must be logged in to post a comment.