Counseling Education

Top Tips for International Students Coming to Study within the UK

The UK is a country of great diversity. The culture convergence shocks many international students during their first days in the UK. Here are a few tips on how international students can face the changes they will encounter.

Research

Before coming to the UK for studies, it is good to know what studying in the country entails. Talk to friends or relatives studying or living in the UK. This is one way of gathering information on what to expect when in the UK. Browse the internet for information on documents required for study in the UK and any other relevant information. Go through UK university blogs; most of the blogs have information that international students may find useful.

Documentation

Process visas, passports and other relevant documentation required for entry into the UK. Inquire from the local government office on the paperwork needed for study in the UK. Students from other European countries can obtain the European Health Insurance Card, which entitles them to free or reduced health care while in the UK.

Know about Britain

Before moving, know a few things about the UK. Culturally, the UK is so diverse and this is evident even in its learning institutions. It is easy to find like-minded students or those from the same country and culture. The country has a cold and wet weather. Therefore, pack warm and waterproof outfits for the winter months because many students may not afford heating.

Accommodation

The first place to search for accommodation is the university. Most UK universities provide information in their websites and guides about accommodation. Many property owners around the universities also post information about their accommodation facilities. Freshers are advised to stay within the university in the first year after which they can find accommodation outside the school.

Bank accounts

International students are advice to open a bank account to help in paying bills and keeping their money safe. Most UK banks have strict rules on account opening. Students need to provide the following when opening an account:

A passport

Proof of address

Proof of income

Proof of student status

Check with the bank and inquire if there are additional requirements.

Communication

Phones in the UK operate on the GSM band, which is also used in most countries around the world. This means international students may still use their home phones while in the UK. However, their calls will be charged at a higher rate when making international and local calls. To lessen the communication expenses buy a UK sim card and top up credit on a Pay-As-You-Go basis i.e. top up the phone only when the credit runs out. Alternatively buy another phone with a monthly plan.

Travel

Many international students get confused when they need to travel around the UK because of the many transport options available. Consider biking and taking the bus when travelling locally. Students travelling within London can take the tube. Trains and coach are suitable options for national travel although travelling by coach is cheaper.

While studying in the UK, many international students adopt certain aspects of the UK culture. Though life style changes may occur, students have the freedom to remain natural and hold on to their cultures.

Will is a content author for Team24 Private Nursing, formally Click 4 Private Nursing who are a specialist private nursing agency in the UK specialising in home care nursing services for families and healthcare providers.

Image credit: LaertesCTB on Flickr

http://www.flickr.com/photos/laertes_za/1978964397/sizes/m/in/photostream/