It’s university season, and now, thousands of students from across countries are completing their preparations before they go overseas for their higher education. Universities, too, are preparing to welcome the fall intake of students, ready to give them the experience of a lifetime.
While there are several countries emerging as popular choices for international students, the United Kingdom has remained a popular choice for students for several years. It is likely to be so for many more years to come.
The latest UK immigration statistics show that nearly 1,18,000 Indian students received a student visa in the year ending June 2022 – an 89% increase from the previous year. If you are one of the students set to move to the UK and experience life there, then there are some things you should keep in mind before you go.
The post-admission journey is important
While securing admission to your dream university is undoubtedly a milestone and something worthy of celebration, the time between securing admission and before moving to the UK is crucial. There are several nitty-gritty to take care of, and some of them are, unfortunately, overlooked sometimes by students. The primary one to focus on is your accommodation, which will be your home for the duration of your studies.
So, ensure your accommodation is sorted and you’ve confirmed your booking and checked and read all the fine print in terms of what is included in the accommodation charges, like amenities, etc. Apart from the accommodation, you’ll need to make sure of things like your travel, finances, health checks, insurance, and a little bit of reading about your university and the city/town you’ll be living in.
BUILT CONNECTIONS
When moving to any new place for your higher education, it’s essential to build a network and form connections with people who are already residing there or are moving at the same time as you. Join local student community groups and groups for international students either in the city you’re moving to or your university.
The amount of information and tips you can find through building connections with fellow students and seniors can be extremely helpful, making the moving abroad experience smoother and more pleasant.
Apart from helping you with the university enrolment, accommodation-related details and information about public transportation, networking with seniors and fellow students, especially locals, can help you find the quintessential shopping spots for all your necessities – groceries, winter essentials, affordable and quality restaurants/eateries, student hangout spots, etc.
DO YOUR RESEARCH
Before moving overseas, it’s always a good idea to do some homework so that when you reach your destination, you aren’t completely unaware of how life in the UK works. For instance, a little research into the culture, lifestyle, standard of living, and general overall cost of living in the UK will go a long way in helping you go about your university life without any hassles.
The average cost of living in popular cities like London is often on the higher end of the scale – approximately around 1,100 pounds – 1,300 pounds (Rs 1,10,000 approximately) per month if you’re planning on staying in the heart of the city. If you’re ok staying outside of London, that price gets cut down in half at about 550 pounds – 650 pounds (Rs 55,000 approximately) per month.
Compared to this, in Australia, the Australian Government estimates general living expenses coming up to around AUD 1800 per month (Rs 97,000). In the USA, however, living expenses can vary for each state.
For example, in states like Texas, you can expect to spend around USD 1800 (Rs 1,43,000), while cities like New York are on the higher side, costing around USD 2000 (Rs 1,59,000). So, it’s crucial for you to know a rough estimate of the living costs before moving abroad.
By Saurabh Arora, Founder & CEO, University Living
