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Studying in the UK as an international student by Ruth Kinloch
Studying in the UK as an international student can be an exciting adventure, but only if you take into account all of the details when preparing for your departure:
- Student visa
To study in a UK university as an international student, you should apply for a Tier 4 visa. You’ll need confirmation of enrolment issued by a university or college in order to apply for a visa. Make sure that your chosen institution appears on the list of licensed Tier 4 sponsors.
Students with a Tier 4 visa who study in full-time undergraduate, graduate, or postgraduate programs can work 10 to 20 hours per week, depending on the institution. If you’re not sure whether you’re allowed to work, check your visa sticker.
In addition to your confirmation of enrolment, you should submit police certificates, financial documents, and proof of English language proficiency.
- Accommodation
British students have access to on-campus accommodation in university dormitories, as well as private apartments. Typically, universities and colleges offer two accommodation options for students: 1) catered rooms where you can buy meals in the dining room and 2) self-catered rooms equipped with kitchens.
If you want to live off campus, you can rent an apartment or a room. Students usually rent furnished apartments, but in this case, you will have to get your own kitchen equipment and home goods.
Another common accommodation option is a homestay, which will allow you to better immerse yourself in the English language and British culture. For help, contact an agency that provides such services. Just make sure the agency is registered with the British Council.
Below are some estimated costs of living in the UK:
- Transport
During your stay in the UK, you will most likely use public transport as there is a well-developed network of trains, buses, underground, and taxi. By the way, if you buy a student Oyster Card, you can save on travel costs. If you still want to travel by car, make sure that your driver’s license is valid in the United Kingdom and that you have valid car insurance. In many cities and towns it is possible to rent a bike, which will keep you from wasting hours in traffic jams.
- Access to medical care
International students who study in the UK can use the National Health System (NHS). You’ll have to pay a regular annual fee of £150 when applying for your visa. This amount covers access to free medical services, including emergency care and hospitalization, as well as discounts on visits to NHS-approved dentists.
- University networks
Most universities provide students with access to internal networks where they can learn about class schedules, extracurricular activities, and other useful information for freshers.
In addition, you will receive a student email address, where you’ll receive important alerts and information from the school administration.
For more information, check out the helpful resources below:
- Britishcouncil.org—British Council website
- Ukcisa.org.uk—The UK Council for International Student Affairs site
- Nationalrail.co.uk—National Railway official website
- Oyster.tfl.gov.uk—a resource for managing your Oyster Card
- Tfl.gov.uk—bicycle rental in London
- Prepareforsuccess.org.uk—an interesting test to see whether you are ready for assignments in a British university
- Study in the UK The go-to guide for international students
- Study in the United Kingdom – Complete Guide to Studying in UK as an International Student
Original article from IvyPanda – Ultimate International Student Checklist
