UK University

Pre-departure Guide

For Indian students, securing a spot at a UK university and getting ready to travel overseas are thrilling times. Making sure you have all the paperwork, knowledge, and tools you need to make the transition easy and pleasurable it's essential as you get ready for this life-changing event. A thorough checklist is included in this pre-departure guide to assist you in getting ready for your upcoming academic journey.

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

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

Passport and Visa:

Ensure your passport is valid for your studies, i.e., at least for the next 16 months.

Obtain the necessary UK student visa. You should apply for your visa as soon as you get your Unconditional offer letter and Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from the university. It is advisable to apply at least two months before departure, since approval can take time during peak seasons.

Academic Certificates:

Carry originals and photocopies of academic certificates,

including language proficiency certificate (IELTS or TOEFL scores).

Unconditional Offer and Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS),

Have both your Unconditional offer and Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS), from the university.

Financial Proof

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

University Correspondence

Organize 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.

Accommodation Information

Have directions to your accommodation or the university.

Keep emergency contact numbers in your hand luggage.

Driving License

Carry your international driving license if applicable.

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

Avoid carrying large amounts of cash.

Bring £500 to £900 in cash for immediate expenses.

Consider traveller's cheques / forex card for additional funds.

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

Accommodation

Secure accommodation within a 1-hour commute or a 20-mile radius from campus.

There are many options available to students looking for housing in the UK. You have the option of living on campus or searching for private rentals. After you receive your university admission letter, it's a good idea to start looking for housing. Most colleges guarantee accommodation for first-year students, allowing them to live in residence halls with friends.

University Account and Joining Instructions

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

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. Choosing an overseas bank account in the UK offers additional benefits, such as the ability to obtain your credit and debit cards prior to your trip and the ability to manage and transfer funds with ease. ( Click here for UK Bank Account )