Living in the UK

Relocating to the UK for your studies promises an exciting journey filled with new experiences and academic growth. Known for its high living standards and vibrant society, the UK offers an ideal environment for international students

Moving to a new country to study is an exciting adventure, but it's normal to miss family, friends, and your home comforts. Britain offers a welcoming environment with its open, multicultural society and friendly people.

University towns and big cities are home to diverse international communities, making it easy to connect with others and create a sense of belonging. Explore stunning landscapes, savour delicious cuisines, forge new friendships, and immerse yourself in the British culture. This guide will help you navigate your journey and settle into life in the UK.

Arriving at the airport

If you're travelling to the UK by air and are from outside the European Union (EU), you will likely arrive at one of the three major London airports:

• Heathrow
• Gatwick
• Stansted.

Other cities with airports that cater for flights from outside of the EU include:

• Belfast
• Birmingham
• Bristol
• Manchester
• Newcastle.

These locations offer convenient access to the rest of the UK by train, bus, or taxi.

Upon arriving at the airport, you'll need to pass through immigration control for passport and visa checks. After collecting your luggage, proceed to customs control. If you're from a non-EU country and carrying the equivalent of £10,000 or more in any currency, you must declare this to customs.

There are restrictions on items you can bring into the UK. For example, meat and dairy products from most non-EU countries are prohibited, and certain animals and plants are banned. You might need a license for some prescription medicines, and there are specific allowances for tobacco, alcohol, and gifts. Before you travel, check GOV.UK - Bringing goods into the UK.

Food and drink

The UK boasts a diverse culinary scene, blending classic dishes with international flavours. Craving something hearty? Indulge in a full English breakfast, fish and chips, or a traditional Sunday roast. For a sweet treat, cream tea and scones or trifle are quintessential British choices.

Beyond these iconic options, the UK's multiculturalism is evident on its menus. Chicken tikka masala, in fact, has been embraced as a national dish. Halal and kosher food is widely available in restaurants, takeaways, and supermarkets, with speciality shops in larger areas. However, it's essential to check, as not all animal products in the UK adhere to these dietary guidelines.

Vegetarian and vegan diets are well-catered for, with numerous supermarket and restaurant options. The UK also promotes healthy eating with clear calorie, fat, salt, and sugar labelling on food products.

High street supermarkets stock a huge range of items. Stores which are generally cheaper include:

• Aldi
• Asda
• Lidl
• Morrisons
• Sainsbury's
• Tesco.

Supermarkets that are considered more expensive include:

• Marks & Spencer
• Waitrose.

If you order over the internet, some supermarkets deliver your groceries to your door for a small fee.

When it comes to drinks, the English are a nation of tea lovers (although other hot beverages are available). It is also safe to drink water straight from the tap in the UK.

Public transport

When living in the UK, you have a number of public transport options including:

• bus
• train
• tram
• tube.

Bus and rail networks serve locations across the country, while cities like Blackpool, Nottingham, Manchester, and Sheffield offer extensive tram systems. Londoners rely on the iconic Underground, or Tube, for easy navigation and similar networks operate in Glasgow and Newcastle.

Many universities provide free or discounted bus travel on campus for students. With a valid NUS card, students can also access subsidised travel tickets. The TOTUM card offers various discounts, including a 33% reduction on railcards through Trainline.

Banking

You should aim to open a bank account within the first few days of your arrival. This will allow you to:

• store your money safely
• withdraw cash (many banks have a limit to the amount of cash you can withdraw in one day - usually around £300)
• send bank transfers
• pay bills.

It can take up to two weeks to open an account, so you need to make sure you have enough money on arrival to last until then.

Before opening an account, consider the basic features, such as overdraft limits, interest rates and bank fees and compare them with other providers. Shop around and choose the account best suited to your needs.

To open an account, visit the local branch of the bank. Certain documents confirming your identity will be required, such as:

• your passport and/or visa
• a document confirming your student status
• proof of address e.g. driving licence, bank statement, bills
• references from your home bank.

Check with the bank beforehand about which documents you'll need.

Remember that your account number and sort code are used to identify your bank account, while your PIN is separate and used to identify the correct account holder when you withdraw cash or pay for items using a debit or credit card. Never share this information with anyone else.

A number of banks provide student accounts offering 0% overdrafts, higher interest rates and free gifts such as mobile phone insurance or railcards. These include:

• Barclays
• Halifax
• HSBC
• Lloyds Bank
• Nationwide
• NatWest
• Santander
• The Co-operative Bank
• The Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS)
• TSB.

For more information, see UKCISA - Opening a bank account.

Currency

The UK's currency is pound sterling (£). There are 100 pence (p) to the pound. Coins in circulation include:

• 1p
• 2p
• 5p
• 10p
• 20p
• 50p
• £1
• £2.

UK banknotes include:

• £5
• £10
• £20
• £50.

When out shopping it's best to take small denominations of money with you (£5, £10, or £20, including some change) as £50 notes are not widely accepted in shops.

You'll likely hear several English slang terms for money during your visit:

• 'p' (pee) for 'pence'
• 'quid' to describe a pound
• 'fiver' or 'tenner' to describe £5 and £10 respectively.

Student accommodation

Most international students opt for university accommodation, such as halls of residence. This is typically arranged through a student accommodation agency or the university itself.

Students usually have their own bedroom while sharing kitchen and bathroom facilities with others, fostering a friendly environment. It's worth noting that accommodation costs are generally lower outside London compared to the capital.

Other accommodation options for international students include:

• Private accommodation - many students rent private houses, sharing the cost with friends.
• Homestay accommodation - where students stay with a host family and experience British culture first hand. For more information, see Hosts International.
• Short-term accommodation - such as bedsits and hostels.

Find out more about student accommodation.

Living costs

One of the most crucial factors for international students is the cost of living in the UK. While some areas are significantly cheaper than others, cities like London can be very expensive. Your spending will depend on your lifestyle, with accommodation being a major outgoing. Rent varies widely based on location and housing type.

Student accommodation often includes utilities like water, electricity, and gas in the rent. However, if you rent privately, you'll be responsible for these bills. When moving in, take a meter reading to avoid paying for someone else's usage. Set up a monthly payment plan with your energy supplier (your landlord can advise you) and expect to receive bills monthly or quarterly.

If all housemates are full-time students, you're exempt from council tax. Contact your university accommodation office for an exemption form. To estimate living costs in different study locations, use the This is Money Student budget calculator.

Remember to consider 'hidden' costs such as food, transport, study

Phone

To call the UK, the country code is +44. To ring another country from within the UK, you'll need to dial '00' followed by the country's code.

If you're staying in the UK for any amount of time, you'll need a mobile (cell) phone. The most popular, and often cheapest option, for international students is to buy a pay-as-you-go SIM card to go in your existing phone (this may need to be 'unlocked' to your new network first) or a new phone.

Pay-as-you-go means you add money to your account as and when you need it. Lebara Mobile is popular among international students, as it offers low-cost international calls.

With contract phones you pay a monthly bill. There are a variety of contracts to choose from and to get the best deal you'll need to shop around:

• SIM only contracts - you buy a SIM card that can be used in an existing phone. You sign up to a 30-day rolling contract giving you the freedom to cancel at any time.
• Long-term contracts - run for a fixed period of 12, 18 or 24 months. These contracts sometimes offer deals such as cheaper calls when you're outside the UK.

Clothing and climate

To maximise suitcase space, consider purchasing essential items upon arrival in the UK. This approach also ensures you're equipped for the unpredictable British weather.

Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) often bring rain, so pack a raincoat and umbrella. For the cold winter months (December-February), a thick coat, warm jumpers, and sturdy boots are essential. Conversely, summer (June-August) typically offers sunshine, calling for light clothing like t-shirts, shorts, dresses, and sandals.

Remember, the UK's weather is notoriously changeable. Check local forecasts to stay prepared. To adapt to fluctuating temperatures, consider layering your outfits. This not only saves space but also provides flexibility for changing conditions.

Popular and affordable stores on the UK high street include:

• H&M
• Primark
• River Island
• TK Maxx
• Zara.

Many shops offer student discounts (usually 10%) when you show them a valid student ID.

For additional savings on high street and online shopping, students can utilise apps like Unidays and Student Beans. A valid student email address is typically required for these services.

Healthcare

The National Health Service (NHS) provides medical care, but eligibility depends on your circumstances. Emergency treatment and family planning are free for everyone, while other services vary based on immigration status, course length, and study location. Dental and optical care typically require payment.

Private healthcare is an alternative with fees for all services. Consider private health insurance before leaving your country, especially if NHS eligibility is uncertain. Upon arrival, register with a nearby GP, providing proof of student status. For details on registration and NHS entitlements, visit UKCISA - Health and healthcare.

Dental registration is also necessary. Use NHS Choices - Find a dentist to locate a provider. Prescriptions from your doctor cost £9.90 in England but are free in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Prescription prepayment certificates (PPCs) can save money for frequent users.

Safety in the UK

The UK is generally a safe place to live and study by international standards. However, as a newcomer, it's essential to follow some basic safety precautions:

• Money - avoid carrying large amounts of cash. Open a bank account to securely store your funds. Be vigilant at ATMs, shielding your PIN from view.
• Personal possessions - keep your belongings secure by zipping up bags and avoiding displaying valuables. Photocopy important documents and store them separately. Consider getting valuables security marked at a local police station for free.
• Travel - avoid walking alone late at night and stick to well-lit areas. Use only licensed taxis with identification and a licence plate. On public transport, avoid empty carriages. If you drive, lock your car and conceal any valuables.
• Nights out - never accept drinks from strangers and always keep an eye on your drink.
• Social media - be cautious when using location-sharing features on social media. Revealing your whereabouts could compromise your safety. Avoid posting images of expensive items to deter potential burglars.

By following these simple guidelines, you can enjoy your time in the UK with peace of mind.

Learning the language

Many universities offer free additional language support to accepted students. You can enhance your skills before starting your course or receive tutoring once you've enrolled. If English isn't your first language, contact your university's language centre as soon as you arrive.

Find out more

• Discover what it's like to study in the UK.
• Learn what to expect when working in the UK.
• For further practical advice, see the UK Council for International Student Affairs.