UK Student Arrival Plan
A structured action plan for your first 24 hours, 3 days, and week in the UK for a seamless transition.
Your First Days in the UK
First 24 Hours
Immediate Tasks
SIM Card, Rest, Contact Home
Local Area, Bank Account
First 3 Days
Getting Oriented
First Week
University Setup
Orientation, Transport Pass
UK Arrival Timeline: Your Step-by-Step Checklist
Your first days in the UK can be both exciting and overwhelming. Having a structured timeline helps you manage essential tasks efficiently and ensures a smooth transition. We've broken down key activities into manageable time frames to help you prioritize and settle in successfully.
Get a UK SIM Card
Purchase a UK SIM card at the airport or a local mobile shop. Major providers include EE, Vodafone, O2, and Three. Opt for a pay-as-you-go plan initially until you decide on a long-term provider. Most airports have stands where you can pick up a SIM card immediately upon arrival.
Reach Your Accommodation
Take pre-arranged airport transport or use public transit to reach your accommodation. Keep your address handy and have local currency for taxi fares if needed. If you've arranged university accommodation, follow the check-in instructions provided to you.
Contact Family & University
Inform your family of your safe arrival and let your university's international office know you've arrived (if required). Save emergency contacts in your phone, including the university's international student support and local emergency numbers (999 for emergencies in the UK).
Buy Essential Groceries
Locate the nearest supermarket (Tesco, Sainsbury's, Asda, and Lidl are common chains) and stock up on essential groceries and toiletries. Buy basics like water, snacks, toiletries, and simple food items for your first day. Most major supermarkets in the UK are open late, with some open 24 hours.
Rest & Recover from Jet Lag
Allow time to rest and adjust to the new time zone. Drink plenty of water and try to adapt to local time as quickly as possible by staying awake until a normal local bedtime. This will help you adjust faster to the UK time zone and combat jet lag.
Immediate Practical Needs in the UK
Addressing your essential needs quickly will help you settle into life in the UK more comfortably. These are the immediate services you should set up in your first few days to ensure you can communicate, navigate, and manage daily life effectively.
Getting a UK SIM card is one of the first things you should do upon arrival. Having a local number allows you to stay connected, use maps, and contact emergency services if needed.
| Provider | Plan Type | Approximate Cost |
|---|---|---|
| EE | Pay-As-You-Go | £10-£20 per month |
| Vodafone | Pay-As-You-Go | £10-£25 per month |
| O2 | Pay-As-You-Go | £10-£20 per month |
| Three | Pay-As-You-Go | £10-£15 per month |
| giffgaff | Goodybags | £8-£20 per month |
Where to Get a SIM Card:
- Airport kiosks (convenient but may be pricier)
- Provider shops in city centers and malls
- Supermarkets and convenience stores (Tesco, Sainsbury's)
- Post offices
- Online (delivered to your UK address)
What You'll Need:
- Your passport for identification
- UK address (for registration)
- Cash or card for payment
Pro Tips:
- Start with a Pay-As-You-Go plan until you understand your usage patterns
- Check for student-specific plans - many providers offer these
- Look for plans with international calling if you'll be calling home frequently
- Consider a plan with generous data if you'll be using maps often
The UK has an extensive public transport network that makes getting around relatively easy. Understanding how to navigate this system will help you travel efficiently to university and explore your surroundings.
LondonTransport Options
- Oyster Card: A contactless smartcard for all London transport. Get one at any Underground station or online (£5 deposit).
- Contactless Payment: Use your contactless debit/credit card directly on readers (same price as Oyster).
- Tube (Underground): The fastest way to travel around central London.
- Buses: Extensive network, flat fare of £1.65, allowing unlimited transfers within one hour.
- Santander Cycles: Bike sharing scheme - £2 for unlimited 30-minute journeys in 24 hours.
Other CitiesTransport Options
- City-Specific Cards: Many cities have their own travel cards (e.g., Swift in Birmingham, Get Me There in Manchester).
- Buses: Primary mode of public transport in most cities and towns.
- Trams/Light Rail: Available in cities like Manchester, Edinburgh, Birmingham, and Sheffield.
- Trains: Connect major cities and towns. Book in advance for cheaper fares.
Student Discounts & Apps
- 16-25 Railcard: Saves 1/3 on rail fares for £30/year (available even if you're over 25 but in full-time education).
- Local Student Passes: Many universities have agreements with local transport providers.
- Apps: Download Citymapper (major cities), National Rail, Google Maps, or local transit apps.
For safety, always check the last train/bus times, especially at night. In London, the Night Tube runs on weekends on select lines, and night buses operate throughout the night.
Key University Contacts
Knowing who to contact at your university for different needs is crucial for a smooth student experience. Here are the essential university departments and contacts you should be familiar with upon arrival in the UK.
| Department | When to Contact Them | Priority |
|---|---|---|
| International Office |
| Immediate |
| Academic Department |
| Immediate |
| Student Services / Support |
| First Week |
| Student Union |
| First Week |
| IT Services |
| First Week |
| Careers Service |
| Later |
How to Find Contact Information
- Check your university's website and official pre-arrival information
- Download your university's student app if available
- Look for contact details in your welcome pack
- Check your university email for departmental contact information
- Save all important contact numbers in your phone upon arrival
Communication Tips
- Always include your full name and student ID number in communications
- Use your university email for all official correspondence
- Keep emails concise and clear about your query
- Check opening hours before visiting offices in person
- Many services offer virtual appointments - check if available
Safety Precautions
While the UK is generally a safe country for international students, it's important to take common-sense precautions to ensure your personal safety and security, especially when navigating a new environment. Here are essential safety tips to follow.
| Emergency Services | 999 or 112 |
| Non-Emergency Police | 101 |
| NHS Non-Emergency | 111 |
| University Security | Check university website |
Save these numbers in your phone immediately upon arrival. For 999 calls, specify which service you need (police, ambulance, or fire) when connected.
- Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Stick to well-lit, busy streets.
- Keep valuables out of sight and be discreet when using phones or other devices in public.
- When using ATMs, be vigilant and shield your PIN. Preferably use ATMs inside banks during daylight hours.
- Plan your journey in advance, especially at night. Use reliable transport options like registered taxis or ride-sharing apps.
- Trust your instincts - if a situation feels uncomfortable, remove yourself and seek help if needed.
- Always lock doors and windows when you leave or go to sleep
- Don't let strangers into your accommodation building
- Familiarize yourself with fire exits and safety procedures
- Keep valuables secure and consider a small safe for important documents
- Be cautious when using public Wi-Fi for sensitive transactions
- Keep your devices secure with passwords/pins and up-to-date software
- Be aware of common scams targeting international students
- Never share bank details or passwords over email or phone
- Register with a GP (doctor) as soon as possible after arrival
- Keep emergency medication with you and inform roommates of any conditions
- Know where your nearest pharmacy and emergency room are located
- Maintain health insurance throughout your stay in the UK
UK-Specific Cultural Understanding
Traffic Safety
Remember that in the UK, cars drive on the left side of the road. Always look right, then left, then right again before crossing. Use pedestrian crossings when available.
Weather Safety
The UK can experience sudden weather changes. Always check the forecast and carry an umbrella. In winter, be careful of icy pavements and dress in warm layers.
Local Laws
Familiarize yourself with UK laws regarding alcohol (legal drinking age is 18), public behavior, and substances. Ignorance of the law is not an acceptable defense.
University Support
Most UK universities have dedicated safety teams and services for students. Attend safety briefings during orientation and download any safety apps your university offers.
Finding Local Amenities
Locating essential services in your new neighborhood will make your transition to UK life much smoother. Here's a guide to finding and accessing the most important local amenities you'll need during your first weeks.
- Main Chains:
- Tesco, Sainsbury'sMajor chains
- Asda, MorrisonsLarge supermarkets
- Lidl, AldiBudget-friendly
- Co-op, WaitroseConvenience/Premium
- Many are open until 10-11pm, with some larger stores open 24 hours.
- Look for student discounts with valid ID at some stores.
- Major UK Banks:
- HSBC, Barclays, Lloyds, NatWest, Santander
- Online Options:
- Monzo, Revolut, Starling (digital banking)
- Most physical banks are open Monday to Friday 9am-5pm and Saturday mornings.
- Look for dedicated international student advisors at major banks.
- Always book appointments in advance for account openings.
- Finding a GP (Doctor):
- Use the NHS website: nhs.uk/service-search/find-a-gp
- Check if your university has an on-campus health center
- Pharmacies:
- Boots, Superdrug, Lloyds Pharmacy
- Local independent chemists
- For non-emergencies, call NHS 111 for advice.
- Most pharmacies have consultation rooms for private advice.
- Services Available:
- Mail services (domestic and international)
- Currency exchange
- Bill payments
- Banking services
- Many post offices are located within convenience stores or supermarkets.
- Check opening hours before visiting as they vary by location.
- Find your nearest branch: postoffice.co.uk/branch-finder
Finding Services: Apps & Tools
- Google Maps: Search for specific amenities near your location. Filter results by ratings, opening hours, and distance.
- University Apps: Many UK universities have student apps with campus maps and information about local amenities.
- NHS App: Find healthcare services including GPs, pharmacies, and emergency services.
Tips for Finding Local Services
- Ask your accommodation provider or university for a local area guide - many have prepared maps and listings for new students.
- Join local social media groups and student forums for recommendations from other students.
- Download the local council's app if available - many UK councils have their own apps with information about local services.
Helpful Resources
These official resources and tools will help you navigate your first weeks in the UK more smoothly. Bookmark these links for quick reference as you settle into your new life as an international student.
- UKCISA - UK Council for International Student AffairsComprehensive advice on studying and living in the UKOfficial
- National Health Service (NHS)Healthcare services information for international studentsOfficial
- UK Visas and ImmigrationInformation on student visa compliance and extensionsOfficial
- British Council - Study UKResources for international students in the UKOfficial
- CitymapperPublic transport navigation for major UK citiesTransport
- Too Good To GoDiscounted food from local restaurants and shopsSavings
- UniDays / Student BeansStudent discount platforms for shops and servicesSavings
- TrainLine / National RailRail journey planning and ticket bookingTransport
- Revolut / Monzo / StarlingDigital banking apps that are easier to set up than traditional banksBanking
Arrival Support
Our team can help you navigate your first days in the UK with personalized arrival assistance.
University Check-in
Get guidance on completing all necessary registration procedures at your UK university.
Banking Setup
Assistance with understanding UK banking options and preparing documentation for account opening.
Accommodation Help
Support with navigating any accommodation issues during your initial settling-in period.
Need Help with Your UK Arrival?
Our experts can guide you through your first days in the UK and help you settle in smoothly.
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