Arriving in the UK as a Malaysian Student

You have done the hard part and successfully been accepted onto a course at a UK university. Now all that is left to do is say your goodbyes and begin an exciting new chapter of your life by travelling to study in the UK.

This new journey can seem challenging though, with many new experiences and social norms to adapt to. Luckily, UK universities make life for new Malaysian students as comfortable as possible during the first few weeks and there are things you can do to help the settling-in period go as smoothly as possible.

If you want to study in the UK, arrange a free consultation with SI-UK today. Our international team will be happy to help with your future UCAS application to study in the UK.

Your First Week in the UK

Landing and Getting to the University

Once you land in the UK, one of the first things you’ll need to do is make your way to the university. Most UK universities offer a meet-and-greet service for international students arriving at major airports. This service ensures that you are safely taken to your accommodation with minimal stress.

Make sure to keep all your travel documents handy, including your passport, visa, and university offer letter, to ensure a smooth arrival process. The meet-and-greet team will guide you to your new home, giving you peace of mind as you start this new journey.

Moving into Accommodation

Moving into student accommodation is a big milestone in your new life in the UK. Whether you’re staying in university halls or private accommodation, your new home will be the base for your studies and daily life. Most university halls come furnished with essentials like a bed, desk, and storage. However, you’ll need to bring or purchase items like bedding, towels, and toiletries to make your room feel homely.

Upon arrival, university staff or student volunteers will help you settle in. You’ll also meet your flatmates—many of whom will be international students like yourself—so it’s a good idea to introduce yourself and start building friendships early.

Get to Know the Arrival Team

Each university has a team of student ambassadors ready to help international students settle in. These ambassadors often include both local and international students who understand the challenges of moving to a new country. They can show you around the campus, introduce you to the local area, and provide information on essential services, events, and student societies.

Their help will make your first few days much easier, and they can also answer any questions you have about student life, academic schedules, or practical matters like transportation.

Welcome Week Events

One of the highlights of your first week is Freshers’ Week, also known as Welcome Week. This is a great opportunity to socialise, make friends, and explore the university. There will be campus tours, social events, and student fairs where you can join societies and clubs that interest you. These events are perfect for meeting new people and starting to build a social circle.

Many universities also organise local trips to nearby attractions, giving you a taste of the local culture before you dive into your studies.

Practical Considerations

Healthcare in the UK

Healthcare in the UK is provided through the National Health Service (NHS), which offers free or low-cost medical services to students. You’ll need to register with a General Practitioner (GP) at the nearest health centre to access NHS services. Many universities have an on-campus health centre, making it convenient for students to register and seek medical advice when needed.

Make sure to take care of this early on to ensure you have access to medical services throughout your stay.

Opening a Bank Account

Opening a UK bank account is essential for managing your finances while studying. You’ll find that many UK banks offer student accounts with added benefits like overdrafts and no monthly fees. Your university can assist you with opening an account by providing guidance on the required documents, such as proof of enrolment, your passport, and proof of your UK address.

Having a local bank account will make it easier to pay for accommodation, manage daily expenses, and avoid the hassle of international transfer fees from Malaysian accounts.

Checking your Student visa status

Most international students studying in the UK will be there on a Student Visa. There are numerous conditions to follow to ensure your immigration status is secured, and it is crucial you follow them.

If you are unsure about what you can and cannot do with your visa, each university has a dedicated team who can help with any enquiries regarding your current status and topics such as working rights (see below).

National Insurance and Working in the UK

If you’re planning to work while studying in the UK, you’ll need to apply for a National Insurance (NI) number. This is required for anyone working in the UK, and the process can be done online or with assistance from your university. Remember, your Tier 4 visa limits the number of hours you can work during term time—usually 20 hours per week—so make sure to adhere to these rules to avoid any potential issues with your visa status.

Study in the UK

Arriving in the UK as a Malaysian student is a big step, but with the right preparation and support, it can be a smooth and rewarding transition. From meet-and-greet services at the airport to Freshers’ Week activities, UK universities go above and beyond to help international students settle in quickly.

If you have any questions or concerns about what it is like to study in the UK, do not hesitate to contact SI-UK for a free consultation.