What To Expect As An International Student In The United Kingdom
- Goalisb
- Sep 24
- 13 min read
Table of Contents
Introduction
International students often find the biggest challenge in moving overseas to lead an independent life away from home. However, this experience simply does not comprise of an emotional barrier but also financial and mental preparation of changing societies. There are innumerable things that one needs to plan and coordinate to ensure a comfortable shifting and settling in. Beginning from pre-arrival preparations to managing expenses and finding affordable accommodation after arrival can be a tedious process. This article aims to highlight some crucial things to know and remember about moving to the United Kingdom as an international student.
Preparing For Arrival
After landing an offer of admission into a degree program in the UK the applicant needs to accept the offer to confirm his or her enrollment. As a response, the student would receive a Confirmation of Acceptance of Studies (CAS) reference number. This reference number is a 14-digit key that serves as proof of admission when applying for a student visa.
The student now needs to apply for the appropriate student visa to begin their preparation. If the program duration lasts up to 6 months one needs to apply for the Short-Term student visa while for courses that have longer duration the student can apply for the Tier 4 (General) student visa. It is important to note that the Short-Term student visa does not permit employment and the student is not allowed to work either part-time during the program or through campus placements.
The student visa applicant also needs to show proof of finance to ensure that they are capable of funding at least the first year of their degree program as well as have funds to cover their monthly expenses.
English Language skills proficiency is also required to receive a valid student visa.
Feeling stuck with CAS, visas, or financial planning for your UK studies? With GOALisB get application assistance to navigate pre-departure formalities and ensures a smooth transition to international education.
Understanding The Education System
One of the most common things that any international student might find difficult to adjust to is the difference in the education system and academic culture at universities in the United Kingdom. The education system in the UK aims at the overall development of college students by promoting conceptual learning and the creative application of classroom concepts. Research and analysis-based projects are quite common and one might have to work on these projects individually or as part of a team. Group discussions, critical thinking, fun activities are some of the tools that professors use in their teaching techniques.
The UK education system emphasizes critical thinking and independent study. GOALisB mentors guide you on adapting academically and positioning yourself for success from day one. Schedule a call.
Post Arrival Fitting In
Apart from the education system, fitting in also includes becoming acquainted with numerous other things. The weather, food, and traveling network can be a little complicated to become habitual with right away.
Weather
Weather in the UK is very pleasant with warm summers and a cold and wet climate during winters. Rain and snowfall are some of the characteristic features of the weather in various parts of the United Kingdom.
Student Accommodation
The most primitive thing to figure out when moving to the United Kingdom is to arrange for accommodation during one’s stay. Most of the universities in the UK provide on-campus living facilities like International Student House which an applicant can apply for along with their enrollment formalities. It is a good idea to live near one’s campus to get accommodation at low rent and also save on daily travel expenses.
Travel
There are several options for a student to travel from one place to another. The most common modes of traveling include walking or cycling to reach the university campus. Apart from that students can opt for public transportation like bus service, subway or taxi. By contacting the student union, one might be able to secure travel passes with discounted rates for students to use public transportation.
Cuisine and Leisure Entertainment
A versatile array of cuisine specific food hubs and cafeterias are present in different parts of the UK. One can try different food cuisines to slowly become habitual to the kind of food available in any region of the UK. One can also visit various entertainment events like college events, concerts, movies, museums, bars and pubs, and more.
Culture Shock In A Different Country
Often referred to as a ‘Culture Shock’ new international students tend to feel uneasy in an environment that is so disparate than one’s usual surroundings. The cultural difference is evident not only in terms of the education system but also in leisure time activities and social gatherings and food or travel behaviours. Some pointers that can prove to be helpful in combating this problem include the following:
Start interacting with other international students from one’s course or other programs. One might even find it helpful to seek guidance from the international student committees that are pretty common in most universities and graduate schools.
Become part of student clubs and societies that engage in activities that one prefers. There are various dramatics, music, literary, dance, and even sports clubs in several universities that an international student can join.
Stay polite and make sure to be kind and exhibit proper social etiquette with every person.
Become familiar with the drinking culture of university students as they frequently visit bars and pubs in their leisure time.
Smoking in public places is banned in the UK.
Adapting to a new culture while excelling academically can feel overwhelming. GOALisB coaches support international students in building resilience and confidence to thrive abroad. Contact us.
Living Cost For An International Student
The expenses incurred by any international student living in the United Kingdom does not conclude with paying the tuition fee for the graduate or undergraduate program. Apart from the college fee, there are numerous other expenses that one needs to figure out. Some of them may include:
Accommodation rent
Travel expenses by public transportation
Food expenses
Cost of entertainment and leisure activities, and more
Evidently, an international student would require about £1,015 per month or £12,180 a year (in case of living in London this cost can go up to £1,265 a month or £15,180 a year). For an Indian student, this would amount to a little over INR 1 lakh per month at the most (as per August 2020 exchange rate). There are a few things to simplify incurring these expenses.
Worried about high living costs and managing expenses in the UK? GOALisB helps you plan budgets, explore scholarships, and make informed financial decisions before you fly. Book a free consultation.
Part-Time Work Opportunities
As per the United Kingdom guidelines, international students on Tier 4 (general) student visa are eligible to work before, during, and after their course as well as during the holidays. While studying the student can work up to 20 hours a week as a part-time employee in any field that the employer finds them qualified for. Moreover, before the course program begins or during holidays students can also work full-time or take up paid internships to enhance their resume. All income is subject to taxes as per the regulations decided by the government and one must stay informed about the same.
Student Bank Accounts
To evade frequent foreign currency charges while making payments it is a good idea to set up a student bank account with a UK bank. This would make it easier for an international student to manage their finances, pay bills, and track their expenses easily. The process to set up an account can be lengthy and it is a good idea to start looking for bank options and begin the process from one’s home country.
Final Thoughts
Moving to a new country can be hard but one can make this transition easier by keeping the above key points in mind. Planning the move in advance and creating a checklist of all the necessary things to be accomplished can help an international student begin to feel at home in their new surroundings quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is international student life in the UK?
International student life in the UK is diverse, supportive, and academically enriching, with access to world-class universities, multicultural communities, and strong student support services.
Detailed Answer:
International student life in the UK is shaped by academic excellence, cultural diversity, and strong institutional support. The UK hosts over 600,000 international students annually, making it one of the most popular destinations for higher education. Students benefit from:
Academic Environment: Access to globally ranked universities, innovative teaching, and research opportunities.
Cultural Diversity: A truly international community with students from over 180 countries, offering networking and cultural exchange.
Support Services: Universities provide visa guidance, orientation programs, language support, and dedicated international student offices.
Lifestyle & Integration: UK cities are student-friendly, offering affordable student housing, transport discounts, and vibrant cultural scenes.
Work Opportunities: International students can usually work up to 20 hours per week during term and full-time during holidays, plus access to the Graduate Route visa for post-study work.
Overall, the UK balances academic rigor with rich cultural immersion, making it one of the most rewarding international student destinations.
What is the quality of education in the UK?
The quality of education in the UK is globally recognized as high, with universities ranked among the world’s top institutions for teaching, research, and innovation.
Detailed Answer:
The UK education system is widely respected for its academic rigor, innovative teaching methods, and strong global reputation. Over four UK universities are consistently ranked in the world’s top 10 (e.g., Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial, UCL). Here are key aspects of UK education quality:
Academic Reputation: UK degrees are internationally recognized, valued by employers, and accredited in many countries.
Research Excellence: The UK is a leader in global research output and impact, with institutions producing cutting-edge discoveries.
Teaching Standards: Universities emphasize critical thinking, independent learning, and specialized degree programs, often shorter in duration (3 years for undergraduate, 1 year for master’s).
Quality Assurance: Bodies like the Quality Assurance Agency (QAA) regulate standards to ensure consistent education quality across institutions.
Global Employability: UK graduates rank highly in global employability indexes, reflecting strong academic preparation and transferable skills.
Overall, the UK provides a blend of tradition and innovation, offering high-quality education that attracts students worldwide.
What are the struggles of international students in the UK?
International students in the UK often face high living costs, cultural adjustment, academic pressure, and visa restrictions as their main struggles.
Detailed Answer:
While the UK offers excellent academic opportunities, international students frequently encounter challenges that affect their overall experience. The most common struggles include:
Financial Pressure: Tuition fees for international students are significantly higher than for domestic students, ranging from £15,000 to £35,000 per year, alongside high living costs in cities like London.
Cultural Adjustment: Differences in language, teaching style, and social interaction can cause feelings of isolation or culture shock.
Academic Expectations: UK universities emphasize independent study, critical thinking, and research, which can differ greatly from home-country education systems.
Visa and Work Restrictions: Students are limited to 20 hours of work per week during term, which may not cover living costs, and visa processes can be complex.
Housing and Healthcare: Securing affordable accommodation and navigating the UK’s healthcare system (NHS access, additional insurance) can be challenging.
Mental Health and Wellbeing: Pressure from finances, academics, and being away from family can lead to stress or anxiety.
Despite these struggles, UK universities provide support services such as international student offices, counseling, and career guidance to help ease the transition.
What are the responsibilities of international students in the UK?
International students in the UK must comply with visa rules, maintain full-time study, keep valid health insurance, and follow university and legal regulations.
Detailed Answer:
Studying in the UK comes with not only opportunities but also important responsibilities that international students must uphold to remain compliant and successful. The key responsibilities include:
Visa Compliance: Students must hold a valid student visa, attend classes regularly, and not exceed the permitted 20 hours of work per week during term time. Any breach can affect visa status.
Academic Engagement: Full-time enrollment, active participation in coursework, and satisfactory academic progress are mandatory.
Financial Responsibility: Students must pay tuition fees on time and demonstrate sufficient funds to cover living expenses, as required by UKVI (UK Visas and Immigration).
Healthcare & Insurance: Registering with a GP and paying the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) for NHS access is compulsory. Additional private health insurance may be needed for some services.
Legal Obligations: Students must follow UK laws, report any change of address or personal details to their university, and ensure their visa information is updated.
University Code of Conduct: Respecting academic integrity rules (no plagiarism), adhering to campus regulations, and contributing positively to the learning environment are expected.
Fulfilling these responsibilities ensures students maintain their legal status in the UK and enjoy a smooth academic journey.
What happens if I work more than 20 hours in the UK as a student?
If a student in the UK works more than 20 hours per week during term time, it is considered a breach of visa conditions, which can lead to visa cancellation, deportation, or bans on future UK visas.
Detailed Answer:
The UK Home Office strictly enforces student visa work restrictions. International students on a Student (Tier 4) visa are normally allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during academic terms and full-time during official university vacations. Exceeding this limit has serious consequences:
Visa Violation: Breaching work conditions can result in immediate termination of the visa.
Deportation Risk: Students may be removed from the UK if found working illegally.
Future Visa Impact: Overstaying work limits can affect eligibility for future visas, including the Graduate Route visa or skilled work visas.
Employer Liability: Employers hiring students beyond permitted hours can face fines and penalties.
Academic Consequences: Universities may be required to report breaches to UKVI, which could jeopardize a student’s enrollment.
To avoid risks, students should carefully track work hours and seek clarification from their university or UKVI if unsure about restrictions.
How much can a student earn in the UK per month?
A student in the UK can typically earn £800–£1,200 per month by working up to 20 hours per week during term time at minimum or average wage jobs.
Detailed Answer:
Earnings for international students in the UK depend on job type, location, and working hours. Under visa rules, students can work 20 hours per week during term and full-time during holidays. Here’s a breakdown:
Minimum Wage (2025): The UK National Minimum Wage is around £11 per hour for those aged 21+.
Part-Time Term Earnings: At 20 hours per week, students can earn roughly £880 per month at minimum wage.
Holiday Earnings: Working full-time (40 hours/week) during breaks can increase monthly earnings to £1,700–£1,900.
Job Variation: Roles such as retail, hospitality, and campus jobs typically pay minimum wage, while skilled or specialized part-time roles (tutoring, IT support) can pay higher, up to £15–£20 per hour.
Regional Differences: London wages may be slightly higher, but living costs are also significantly greater compared to smaller UK cities.
While part-time work helps cover some living expenses, it is generally not enough to fully fund tuition and all living costs, so students are expected to have sufficient financial resources before arrival.
What are the disadvantages of studying in the UK?
The main disadvantages of studying in the UK are high tuition fees, expensive living costs, strict visa rules, cultural adjustment challenges, and limited work opportunities for international students.
Detailed Answer:
While the UK is one of the world’s top study destinations, it comes with certain drawbacks that international students should consider:
High Tuition Fees: International students pay between £15,000 and £35,000 per year, with medical and MBA programs costing even more.
Living Expenses: The UK, especially London, has one of the highest living costs in Europe, with average student expenses of £12,000–£18,000 per year.
Visa Restrictions: Student visas limit work to 20 hours per week during term, which may not be enough to cover expenses. Visa renewals and compliance can be complex.
Cultural & Academic Adjustment: Students may face homesickness, language barriers, or challenges adapting to independent learning and critical-thinking based teaching.
Weather & Lifestyle: The UK climate (long winters, frequent rain) can be difficult for students from warmer regions.
Competitive Job Market: Post-study work opportunities exist through the Graduate Route, but securing long-term skilled employment is highly competitive.
Despite these disadvantages, many students still choose the UK for its prestigious universities, global recognition of degrees, and strong career opportunities.
How can I survive in the UK as a student?
To survive in the UK as a student, focus on budgeting wisely, managing part-time work, using student discounts, building support networks, and accessing university resources.
Detailed Answer:
Living in the UK as an international student requires careful planning and smart lifestyle choices. Here are the key survival strategies:
Financial Management: Create a monthly budget to track tuition, rent, food, and transport. Use student bank accounts and take advantage of money-saving apps.
Part-Time Work: Work up to 20 hours per week during term to supplement living costs. Jobs in retail, hospitality, or campus roles are common.
Student Discounts: Get a TOTUM card, railcards, and university discounts for travel, shopping, and entertainment.
Affordable Housing: Consider university halls, shared flats, or accommodation in smaller towns to reduce rent.
Healthcare Access: Register with the NHS after paying the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) for free healthcare services.
Academic Adaptation: Stay engaged in classes, seek help from professors, and use writing centers or study workshops.
Wellbeing & Support: Combat homesickness by joining cultural societies, networking with peers, and accessing mental health services.
Time Management: Balance study, work, and social life to avoid burnout.
By combining financial discipline, community engagement, and academic focus, students can successfully navigate life in the UK while enjoying cultural and career opportunities.
What are the three biggest challenges of living in the UK as a student?
The three biggest challenges international students face in the UK are high living costs, adapting to a new culture and education system, and strict visa/work restrictions.
Detailed Answer:
Living in the UK as an international student is rewarding but comes with significant hurdles. The top three challenges are:
High Living Costs: Rent, transport, and food expenses are among the highest in Europe. Students in London may spend £1,200–£1,600 per month on living costs alone, making financial management critical.
Cultural & Academic Adjustment: Moving to a new country means adapting to different social norms, accents, food, and weather. Academically, UK universities emphasize independent study, research, and critical thinking, which can be a shift from more structured systems abroad.
Visa & Work Restrictions: The student visa limits work to 20 hours per week during term, which is rarely enough to cover living costs. Navigating visa rules, compliance, and post-study opportunities under the Graduate Route also adds pressure.
While these challenges are common, most universities provide support through orientation programs, international student offices, career services, and mental health resources. With preparation and resilience, students can overcome these obstacles and thrive in the UK.
How will studying in the UK benefit you?
Studying in the UK benefits students through globally recognized degrees, career opportunities, cultural exposure, and access to world-class universities.
Detailed Answer:
Pursuing higher education in the UK offers both academic and personal advantages that extend far beyond graduation. The main benefits include:
Global Recognition: UK degrees are internationally respected, opening doors to career and academic opportunities worldwide.
Career Opportunities: The UK is home to strong industries (finance, healthcare, engineering, technology) and provides a Graduate Route visa, allowing students to work for two years after completing their studies.
World-Class Universities: Institutions like Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial, and LSE rank among the top universities globally, with cutting-edge research and teaching.
Shorter Course Duration: Most undergraduate degrees are 3 years, and master’s programs are typically 1 year, helping save time and costs compared to other countries.
Cultural Diversity: Studying in a multicultural environment fosters global networking, cross-cultural communication skills, and personal growth.
Language Advantage: Living and studying in the UK improves English proficiency, which is a highly valued skill in the global job market.
Student Support & Resources: Universities offer career services, counseling, and mentorship programs that help international students succeed.
In essence, studying in the UK equips students with academic excellence, employability skills, and global perspectives, making it a life-changing investment.
Moving to the UK is exciting but complex. From applications and essays to visas and pre-departure prep, GOALisB supports you at every step of your international student journey. Connect with us today at +91 7719497187 or contact@goalisb.com to get personalized guidance.
