[Ultimate Guide] 10 Expert Tips for International Students Moving to the UK in 2025

Brought to you by Greater Manchester Global (GMG)
Updated: August 2025

Introduction: A New Chapter Begins

Studying in the UK is more than earning a degree—it's a life-changing journey filled with academic discovery, cultural immersion, and career-building experiences.

But for thousands of international students, this move comes with uncertainty. From banking and healthcare to food and housing—how do you prepare?

At GMG, we’ve guided students from India, Pakistan, Nigeria, Nepal, and across Asia and West Asia to settle confidently in the UK. Here's our expert-verified, student-first guide to make your transition smoother.

1. Organise Your Travel & Entry Documents

Before you board the plane, ensure you’ve packed:

• Passport & Student Visa (Vignette or BRP Letter)

• CAS Letter (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies)

• University Offer Letter

• Proof of Finances (bank statements)

• TB Test Certificate (if applicable)

• Accommodation Contract

Pro Tip: Upload scanned copies to Google Drive, Dropbox, or your university email.

Source: UK Government – Documents You Need

2. Open a UK Bank Account

You’ll need a UK account for rent, part-time jobs, and daily expenses. Popular student-friendly banks include:

• Monzo and Starling Bank (digital-first and fast setup)

• Santander, HSBC, and Lloyds (longer process, good for credit building)

Required: BRP (or visa letter), passport, and proof of UK address.

Source: UKCISA Banking Advice

3. Get a UK SIM Card

Stay connected the moment you land. Top SIM providers offering student deals:

• GiffGaff: Flexible, prepaid, cheap international calls

• VOXI: Free social media usage

• EE and Three: Better network coverage in rural towns

Source: Save the Student – SIM Card Guide

4. Secure Verified Accommodation

Start your housing search early:

• University Halls: Safe, often close to campus

• Private Halls: Unite Students, AmberStudent, Student Roost

• Flat Shares: SpareRoom, Rightmove, Facebook Groups

Warning: Always confirm with verified agents. Avoid transferring money via Western Union or cash.

Source: National Union of Students – Housing

5. Register with a Local GP (Doctor)

As a Tier 4 or Student Route visa holder, you paid the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)—so you’re eligible for free NHS care.

📍 Once you settle, register at your local GP (General Practitioner) clinic. You'll need proof of address.

📚 Source: NHS Student Healthcare

6. Understand Your Work Rights

You can usually work:

• Up to 20 hours/week during term time

• Full-time during holidays

Make sure your RTW and visa letter confirm work eligibility.

Part-time job sources:

• Student Union Job Boards

• Indeed, Reed, or local stores

• On-campus cafes, libraries, events

Source: UKCISA – Working in the UK

7. Learn Basic Cooking & Grocery Tips

Dining out every day in the UK is expensive. Learn to cook:

• Rice, dal, pasta, eggs, sandwiches

• Use frozen veggies to reduce waste

• Explore Indian/Asian groceries in major UK cities

Top Grocery Chains: Tesco, ASDA, Aldi, Sainsbury's
Indian Stores: Patel Brothers (London), Spices of India (Online), Local South Asian shops

📚 Source: Save the Student – Student Food Budget Tips

8. Use Public Transport & Save with Railcards

UK cities are walkable and well-connected. Options include:

• Bus & Tram systems (get a student pass)

• National Rail: Use a 16-25 Railcard (£30/year) to save 1/3 on all train fares

• Google Maps & Citymapper for real-time routes

📚 Source: Railcard Official Website

9. Stay Safe & Informed

• Know emergency number: 999 (Police, Ambulance, Fire)

• Save your university’s emergency contact

• Join international student WhatsApp or Facebook groups

• Use StreetSafe or UK Police apps to report issues

📚 Source: Met Police – Personal Safety Tips

10. Embrace the Experience—Academically & Personally

Explore:

• Campus clubs and societies

• Local food, events, and city tours

• Travel within the UK and Europe (Schengen visa if needed)

Connect with:

• Academic advisors

• Student wellbeing teams

• Career services

Remember: Your experience is more than a degree. It’s a global perspective in the making.

Final Words from GMG

At GMG, our mission goes beyond admissions—we’re your support system, your ethical advisors, and your trusted global guides.

Need help with:
✅ Visa updates?
✅ 2025 course deadlines?
✅ City-specific checklists?

📩 Reach out to us for personalised, student-first guidance. We’re with you—every step of the way.