Starting university is a daunting experience for anybody but if you are an international student the experience of a new university, plus a new country and currency is a lot to take in. We’ve got together some top tips to make the transition much easier for you.

Make sure you have packed the right things- This especially applies to clothing, the UK weather is very unpredictable and you don’t want to be spending money on clothes that you could have bought with you. Bring some of your favourite food with you too, that way you always have a little reminder of home.

Head to the Students Union- The Students Union is there to help. They can advise you of any activities that are going on, There is bound to be a society for other international students if you want to feel a little bit more at home. They also have services to help you with more practical things like setting up your bank account and registering with a doctor.

Changing up currency- It’s always advisable to have some cash on you when you arrive in case there is an issue with your bank and withdrawing money abroad. The Post Office in the UK is the best place to go to change up your currency as they have special student rates which make it a lot cheaper to change up your money.

Get a UK phone/ SIM card- Calling home may start to get expensive so pop into a phone shop or even a supermarket and pick up a SIM card that specifically has plans for cheaper calls abroad. If you are going to be here for a long time it may be worth investing in a monthly plan that lets you make free calls abroad so that you can call your mum whenever you like.

Learn the lingo- It is well known that the citizens of the UK are not the best at learning a new language. Since many countries around the globe speak English, we sometimes feel there is not a great need to learn something new. Learning the language will become easier when you become friends with people speaking it around you most of the day, you will begin to pick up the slang and the speed of which people talk.

It’s normal to feel homesick- Even students that are just moving down the road feel homesick at one point or another. The best way to beat this is to get out there and make some friends, everyone is in the same boat and everyone is looking to meet new people. Don’t forget to call home once in a while it’s always reassuring to hear a friendly voice.

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