Pre-Departure Guide for Students Moving to the UK

08 Sep

By: Admin
2024

Pre-Departure Guide for United Kingdom

Congratulations on your decision to study in the UK! This guide will help you prepare for a smooth transition and make the most of your experience.

Planning Your Arrival in the UK

Before you leave home, ensure you’ve planned every aspect of your journey. This includes your route from the airport to your accommodation and confirming any airport pickup services offered by your institution. Many institutions provide airport pickup, but you’ll need to book this service in advance.

Important Tips:

Arrive in time for your institution’s welcome or orientation week. The National Union of Students (NUS) offers a welcome program each September to help you settle in.
Plan how you’ll get from the airport to your accommodation, whether by taxi, ride-share service, or public transport.
Carry some UK currency for initial expenses like snacks or a magazine.

Packing Tips

Baggage Allowance: Check your airline’s baggage policy and be aware of weight limits to avoid extra fees.
Restricted Items: Avoid packing alcohol, tobacco, guns, food, and certain plant and animal products. Prescription drugs should be approved for use in the UK.
Luggage Safety: Attach an address tag to each piece of luggage with your name and UK address. Keep important documents, medications, and valuable items in your carry-on bag.

Important Documents

Ensure you have copies or photos of:

Main page of your passport
Airline tickets
Travel insurance certificate
Letter of acceptance from your UK college or university
Important addresses and phone numbers
Prescriptions or a letter from your doctor for any medication

Checklist for Your Place of Study

Confirm airport pickup arrangements.
Know how to get from the airport to your accommodation and its cost.
Be aware of your arrival time and location.
Inform your institution of your expected arrival.
Have a 24-hour contact number for your institution.

Climate and Clothing

The UK has a temperate climate with frequent weather changes:

Summer (June-August): Mild, with occasional showers.
Autumn (September-November): Cooler, with increasing rainfall.
Winter (December-February): Cold and wet; warm clothing required.
Spring (March-May): Mild, with occasional showers.

Public Transportation in the UK

The UK offers various public transport options including trains, buses, ferries, and taxis. Useful links include:

Checklist for Settling In

Arrange suitable accommodation.
Understand Council Tax.
Plan your finances.
Complete a health check.
Know what to do if you become ill.

Culture Shock

Culture shock is normal. To ease your transition:

Learn about UK culture before you leave.
Research how to manage culture shock.
Pack items from home that remind you of family and friends.
Engage in local activities, student clubs, and sports.
Talk to other international students and use support services at your institution.

Legal and Safety Considerations

Abide by local laws and regulations.
Attend classes regularly and adhere to work hour restrictions.
For emergencies, dial 999 for police, fire, or ambulance.

Work in the UK

You can work up to 20 hours per week during term time.
Consider applying for a Tier 2 (General) visa for full-time skilled employment before your student visa expires.

Telecommunications

UK country code: +44
SIM-only plans start at £6 per month.
Postpaid plans start at £20 per month.

Food

Enjoy a diverse range of international cuisines.
Traditional British dishes include fish and chips, English breakfast, bangers and mash, and pies.
Special dietary needs can be accommodated.