Just take a few easy steps to prepare yourself and you will be right at home when you arrive to study in London.
By taking a few easy steps you will ensure a great arrival when you study in London. Exchanging the safety of your home for a new life in London is daunting, but fortunately there are international groups that can help students cope. Below is a number of important tips on preparing for London.
Immigration and Visa
Take care in understanding visa regulations before you start the process. The UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA), the British Council and the UK Border and Immigration Agency (UKBA) are really good sources of information.
Before You Leave
Make sure you have a map of London and know exactly where your college is (Google the location). You should not ignore the internet as a source of information as many people share their experiences on blogs and the information can benefit you. These days almost all schools and colleges have Facebook pages helping students get in touch with each other and giving tips on the London experience.
Find Your Way in London
The 6 zones on the London underground or "tube" is priced accrording to how far you travel on the network. Starting in zone 1 "the City" it goes all the way to zone 6 where most commuters live. Incredibly students get a massive 30% discount on their public transport fares. Once you get your student card you can apply for this discount and it will apply to almost any duration ticket you buy. Most schools and colleges have information on TFL (Transport for London) who administers the system and you should get this on your arrival at the college.
Railcard for Young People
Anyone aged 16-25 can apply for the railcard and benefit greatly when travelling in the UK. A 1 year card is available at most railway stations at a small cost. 16-25railcard.co.uk will give you all the info you need.
Where to Live?
The variation of accommodation in London on offer will satisfy every need you may ever have with plenty to spare. Accommodation and schools are almost synonymous and students will always find something that suits their needs.
Important Health and Safety Pointers
If you are on a 12 month or longer course you will have access to the NHS (National Health Services). Most medical treatments (apart from dentistry) are freely available to students for the duration of the time they study in London. Students must register with the NHS and your college should be able to help with the process.
London and Work
Students are allowed to work whilst they study in London. The UKBA regulates working hours of students so be sure to check the latest information before you start working. There are diverse options for employment as many of the top companies in the world have offices in London. The internet is once again a great source of information and a good place to start searching. There are many newspapers, some of them free like the Standard and Metro, advertise students jobs and this is also a good source to find work.
Banking Cards for Students
Many international bank have students account and it is worth trying opening a bank account before you leave for London. Almost all London banks have student accounts so be sure to take your passport when going to banks and enquiring about this. There are so many banks to choose from and you have to make sure you select the right one for you.
Phone Home
A mobile phone in London is a must so make sure you have one when you get there. There are more than enough options to choose from when you start looking at mobile packages. Pay-as-you-go (pre-paid) sim card with cheap international rates are available everywhere and likely the best option. Take a bit of time in choosing the best call plan for you as there are a number of international packages on offer.
Next Move
Choosing the right school for you is an important step. There is so much information and guides available to help you make this important decision. Choosing the right place for you is so important, so take you time when making this decision. A good way to see the schools is by joining a summer session during the European summer to sample a few schools. Once you have chosen a school you are ready to study in London!
International Students – Suggestions to Get Benefits from Study Abroad in UK
The UK is a top study abroad destination for International students from all over the world. According to Higher Education Statistics recorded two years ago, 248,000 International students were studying on full-time degree courses across the UK.
Study Abroad in UK - Important Things to Consider When You Plan International Education
As an International student, the results accrued from a study abroad experience can vary dramatically depending upon a series of factors. Apart from major factors such as location, college, and type of course, each individuals experience will vary depending on what they intend to achieve whilst abroad, their willingness to utilise opportunities and embrace a new perspective.
Additional Student Facilities in UK Universities and Colleges
The amount of resources supplied to International students who wish to study in UK colleges will vary dramatically from place to place, so it is worth making enquiries to each of your short-listed colleges before deciding.
