Studying overseas as an international student is enormously exciting and exhilarating but it can also be a little nerve wracking. Our top ten tips on preparing for life at a UK university are a must read.

1. How to apply

You need to apply for your degree course via UCAS or via the individual university. You should apply by the January before your course starts in the September or earlier if possible. As well as your application you’ll also need references, proof of finances, English language test scores and a personal statement on why you want to study your university course.

2.  Taking English language tests

For your degree course it’s likely you’ll need to demonstrate your level of English is sufficient to complete the course. Your university will stipulate the exact requirements but be prepared to take an English language test in your home country via an approved test centre before you start your course.

3. Obtaining a visa

Studying for a degree means you’re be staying in the UK more than 6 months and current immigration rules mean you need to apply for a tier 4 (general) student visa in your home country up to 3 months before your course start date. You’ll need to show you have the funds to pay for your course and cover your living costs. The British Councilhas more details. You’re exempt from needing a visa if you live in an EU country.

4. Opening a bank account

The great news is that UK banks do open bank accounts for international students. This can take several weeks to open though and you’ll need your passport, your university course enrolment letter and evidence of your UK address. It’s wise to talk to your local bank before you leave your home country on how they will transfer money to a UK account for you and how you can access cash in the meantime. Depending on your home country bank, they may be able to link with a UK bank and start the process early.

5. Securing accommodation

It’s really worth organising this before you arrive as the best accommodation always goes quickly. There are several fantastic options. Halls of residence are large buildings with single or shared rooms provided by your university. They have a canteen where food is served and communal social areas. Self-catering halls are similar to halls of residence but with communal kitchens you can cook your own food. Student flats and houses can be more expensive than halls of residence but they give you the freedom to live where you like, with other students and experience UK culture. You’ll need to sign a tenancy agreement with a private landlord so please read the small print carefully.

6. Staying healthy

To obtain NHS health treatment as an international student you must pay the migrant health surcharge before you apply for your visa. If not, please consider private medical insurance before you leave your home country to cover you as private health care in the UK is very, very expensive.

7. Finding a student job

As an international undergraduate student on an official tier 4 student visa you’re permitted to work up to 20 hours a week during term time and full time out of term time. It’s not always easy to find a job by yourself so ask your university student services or your local student union about jobs they know about from bona-fide local employers.

8. Managing money

Living costs in the UK differ enormously depending on whereabouts you’re going to be living but are still relatively expensive when compared to other countries. For example, food and drink can cost about £30 per week in smaller cities and towns but in London could be £50-60 per week as a minimum. It’s a great investment to spend time before you leave working out what budget you’ll need to cover your living expenses. This should include food, drink, mobile, internet, bills (heating, water, electricity), travel, study materials and don’t forget having fun and socials!

9.  Applying for scholarships

Tuition fees and living costs in the UK are quite high so applying for scholarships can help with your finances. Individual universities, charity and non-profit organisations offer scholarships to international students, though it does depend on what subject you’re studying. British Council showcase potential scholarships. Alternatively, you can search online via the individual university or comparison sites such as scholars4dev, or top universities.

10. Travelling around

Most UK university towns and cities have good public transport i.e. buses plus numerous dedicated cycle lanes. A few cities have trams e.g. Manchester. Trains and coaches are usually for longer journeys to explore other cities, travel to and from airports etc. Please be careful using taxis as these can be quite expensive and only use those with authorised licenses. It can be a culture shock moving to a different country with new food, language, dress and social skills to grasp. Give yourself time to adjust; its ok to feel everything is new and strange. Make friends with other international students and you can help each other.