UK University Pre-departure Guide

Confirming your place at a UK university and preparing to travel abroad is an exciting moment for Indian students. As you prepare for this transformative experience, it's crucial to ensure that you have all the necessary documents, information, and resources to make your transition smooth and enjoyable. This pre-departure guide provides a comprehensive checklist to help you prepare for your upcoming academic adventure.

All you need to know before travelling to study in the UK

Pre-departure Checklist

The pre-departure checklist is useful for ensuring you don’t leave anything behind before travelling to the UK.

Passport and Visa

• Ensure your passport is valid for your studies, i.e., at least for the next 12 months.
• Obtain the necessary UK student visa. You should apply for your visa as soon as you get your offer letter from the university. It is advised that you apply at least six months before departure since approval can take time during peak seasons. 

Academic Certificates:

• Carry originals and photocopies of academic certificates, including IELTS or TOEFL scores.

Offer and Acceptance Letters

• Have both your offer and acceptance letters from the university.

Financial Proof

• Provide evidence of your finances and funding for your stay in the UK.

University Correspondence

• Organise all documents and information sent by the university.

Photographs

• Bring several passport-size photographs.

Insurance and Medical Notes

• Obtain travel and health insurance.
• If you have medical conditions, bring translated medical notes and prescriptions.

Driving License

• Carry your driving license if applicable.

Accommodation Information

• Have directions to your accommodation or the university.
• Keep emergency contact numbers in your hand luggage.

Medical Considerations

If you have an ongoing medical issue, it is important to remember several key items to ensure your initial period in the UK is comfortable. Once at the university, you can register with the on-site doctor.

Medication

• If bringing medication, have a translated letter from your doctor explaining its purpose.

Long-Term Medical Treatment

• Bring a letter from your doctor, counsellor, or hospital specialist if undergoing long-term medical treatment.

Financial Planning

Ensuring you have enough money to enjoy yourself and live comfortably at university is vital to your well-being. This is how you can plan your finances while living in the UK as a student.

Cash and Travellers Cheques

• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
• Bring £300 to £500 in cash for immediate expenses.
• Consider traveller's cheques for additional funds.

Tuition and Accommodation Fees

• Ensure you can pay your fees upon registration.
• Consider bringing separate bankers' drafts for accurate amounts.

Travel Logistics

Before you fly, these are the things you should check.

Hand Luggage

• Check airline restrictions for weight and size allowances for hand luggage.

Booking Flights

• Book your flights to the UK well in advance.

University Arrival Guide

CAS Letter and Student Visa

• Upon receiving your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS), apply for your student visa.

Accommodation

Secure accommodation within a 2-hour commute or a 30-mile radius from campus. 

• Finding a place to stay in the UK as a student offers plenty of choices. You can opt for on-campus housing or look for private rentals. It's a good idea to begin your accommodation search once you receive your acceptance letter from the university. Most universities provide first-year students guaranteed housing, letting them live with friends in residence halls.

Flights to the UK

• Book your flights to the UK.

University Account and Joining Instructions

• Set up your university account and access Joining Instructions about a month before your course begins.

MFA and Online Registration

• Complete Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) and Online Registration before arriving in the UK.

Face-to-Face Registration

• Schedule a Face-to-Face Registration Appointment upon arrival in the UK.

Setting up Your Bank Account

Your bank account is crucial in ensuring you have enough funds for your UK education. Setting up a basic bank account with your student visa is quite easy. Alternatively, consider opening an overseas bank account beforehand to save time and be hassle-free. Opting for an overseas bank account in the UK has extra perks – you can snag your debit and credit cards before you even jet off and smoothly handle fund transfers and management.

UK University Pre-departure Guide

Download our UK University Pre-departure Guide for Indian Students.

Departure Sessions with SI-UK

At a pre-departure session, students about to join UK universities for foundation, undergraduate, and postgraduate courses are briefed about all the do’s and don’ts and provided with complete information to help them settle down in a new life. Pre-departure sessions include information and guidance covering various topics, from accommodations and flights to healthcare and bank accounts in the UK.

Pre-arrival Guide

Post-arrival Guide

FAQ

What are the necessary steps for an Indian student to open a bank account in the UK?

To open a UK bank account as an Indian student, choose a recommended bank, gather the required documents (passport, student ID), visit the bank with your documents, provide information about your stay and studies, and once approved, receive your debit card and account details. This process ensures a smooth transition to managing your finances during your studies in the UK.

How can I manage my finances effectively while I study in the UK?

To manage finances while studying in the UK, create a monthly budget covering essentials, explore part-time job opportunities within visa restrictions, leverage student discounts for savings on food and transportation, and employ budgeting apps to track expenses and ensure effective money management throughout your academic journey.

What transportation options are available for students in UK cities?

For students in UK cities, affordable transportation options include buses and trains. Obtain a student discount card for reduced fares on public transport, explore bike-sharing services in bike-friendly cities, and consider walking for a healthy, cost-free option depending on the distance. 

How can I deal with homesickness or cultural adjustment while studying in the UK?

To cope with homesickness or cultural adjustment in the UK, stay connected with family through video calls, make friends by joining university clubs, immerse yourself in local culture by trying new foods and attending events, and don't hesitate to seek support from the university's services for international students. It's normal to feel homesick; be patient, take small steps, and make the most of your experience in the UK.