Congratulations! You've chosen the UK for your university adventure – an exciting place with a vibrant student life. While the weather might not always be sunshine and rainbows, you'll be joining a diverse community with over half a million international students.
To help you settle in smoothly, here are some tips:
1. Pack for Every Season:
The UK is known for its unpredictable weather. Be prepared for chilly winters with lots of warm clothes and a waterproof coat. Don't expect scorching summers either – layers are your friend!
2. Explore Your New Home:
From charming accents to unique local eats, the UK offers a rich tapestry of cultures. Before you arrive, research your new city and discover hidden gems.
3. Arriving Ready to Go:
Safe travels! Before you leave, have a plan for getting from the airport to your student accommodation. Write down the address or save it on your phone just in case. Unsure about public transport? Our Student Engagement Team (wecreate@dwellstudent.co.uk) can assist you with finding the best route to your new digs.
4. Open a Bank Account:
While you can't open a UK bank account before arriving, bring enough cash to last for the first two weeks. Our friendly reception team can guide you to the nearest branch once you're settled in. See UCAS' guide for advice on opening a bank account in the UK.
5. Get Registered:
Enrolling at your university is vital. Check your chosen university's website for enrollment instructions, including necessary documents and location details.
Within a few weeks of arrival, you may need to register with your local authorities. Don't worry, your Student Union support team can help you navigate this process.
6. Prioritise Your Wellbeing:
Register with a local doctor (GP) for any health concerns. Feeling homesick or overwhelmed? Our reception team is here to listen and offer support.
7. Stay Safe:
Be aware of your surroundings, especially when exploring the city. Keep your phone close and stay alert – pickpockets and phone snatchers do exist, unfortunately.
8. Embrace the Student Life:
Make sure to join in with Welcome Week at your University, this usually features a Fresher's Fair, where you can join societies and sports teams based on your interests. Don't forget to check out international student societies to meet fellow newcomers as well. You can keep up to date with all things happening on site by following us on social media.
We hope this blog helps you feel prepared for your exciting student journey in the UK! If you have any questions before you arrive, don't hesitate to email our Student Engagement Team at wecreate@dwellstudent.co.uk. We're here to support you every step of the way!
Advice from Assam- dwell student living resident
‘Hello to all Incoming International Students arriving in September to study in the UK. My name is Assam, I came as an International Student from Pakistan to study Engineering and Computer Science in London, I recently moved to Manchester for two years Graduate Internship in Computer Science. UK is culturally very diverse country and is home to students from across the globe which makes the country one of the most attractive places in the world to study and experience the best student life.
Students union of every university host a variety of events for international students to help them adjust to university life, make new friends, and get to know the city better. Such events will enable you to meet people who are going through a very similar experience to yourself.
Every University in the UK has different cultural and faith societies where people come together to celebrate special occasions such as Chinese New Year and discuss aspects of religion and faith and simply come together to reminisce about home, joining societies is one of the best ways to make new friends and meet new people so I would strongly recommend incoming international student to join different student societies.
Regarding Food, Some of the main UK supermarket chains include Tesco, ASDA, Morrison, Sainsbury’s, Marks & Spencer and Waitrose, and many of them have aisles dedicated to international cuisine. Most cities also have specialist international supermarkets, where you can find foods and ingredients that you are familiar with back home.
Regarding travelling around the city, the local bus service is often the most convenient way of travelling around the city. If you live far away from campus, consider investing in a student bus pass to save some cash.
Luckily there are many discounts offered to students in the UK. You can get discounts on food and shopping, nights out, getting around, and wellbeing. You just need to keep an eye out for available discounts and don’t be shy to ask.’
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