Study in the United Kingdom
Health and safety
If your course of study is for
six months or more (or a course of any duration in Scotland) you will
qualify for NHS treatment in the UK. We strongly recommend that you
register with a GP within the first couple of weeks of arriving in the
UK, which will make it easier to see the doctor when you need to. Read more on healthcare services for international students.
Cost
The International Student Calculator
has been developed by UNIAID and will help you work out the precise
cost of living in the UK. It allows you to plan your own budget, taking
your duration of study as well as your funds into consideration.
Visa and immigration
The UK visas website
provides useful guidance on visas to students and visitors intending to
spend time in the UK, including downloadable application forms and
information packs.
Transport
UK towns and cities are linked by a wide ranging system of motorways and A-roads, and there are efficient coach (National Express and Megabus) rail
services to all parts of the country. Frequent and efficient flights
also connect major UK cities with many European and international
destinations. Those planning to travel frequently may wish to invest in
either an International Student Identity Card (ISIC) or International
Youth Travel Card (IYTC), both of which offer discounts on fares in the
UK and overseas.
Working in the UK
There are many
opportunities for you to earn extra money while in the UK, both during
your studies and after graduation. Depending upon your visa, special
rules for international students make it possible to work up to 20
hours per week during term-time, and full-time during vacations. The
International Graduates’ Scheme also allows you to work in the UK for
one year after graduation and gain invaluable experience before you
return home.
Life and culture
When you come to the UK
you will notice a difference in the way people dress, greet each other,
practise religion and express themselves. It is a good idea to prepare
yourself for cultural differences by reading as much as you can about
the UK before you leave. For some tips from one of our students, click here.