Your first week in the UK: an arrival checklist for new students

Congratulations, you’ve made it. The first week in a new country is busy, and a few practical tasks make everything after it much easier. Here’s what to tick off.

Day 1 to 2: arrive and settle

• Let family know you’ve landed and keep your university’s emergency contact number handy.
• Check your eVisa by signing in to your UKVI account and making sure your details are correct.
• Get a UK SIM card. Pay-as-you-go deals are available at supermarkets and phone shops, and you’ll need a UK number for most sign-ups.
• Buy essentials such as bedding, kitchen basics and a warm coat. Supermarket own brands are much cheaper than branded goods.

Day 3 to 5: university and health

• Complete enrolment and attend international student welcome events. You’ll collect your student ID card and meet other students.
• Register with a GP (a local doctor). You’ve paid the Immigration Health Surcharge, so NHS care is available to you, but you need to register first.
• Find the support teams: the international student office, wellbeing services and your course administrator.

Day 5 to 7: money and getting around

• Open a UK bank account. Many banks let students apply online, and some digital banks only need your passport and UK address.
• Sort out travel. Look at local bus passes, and if you’re 16 to 25 or studying full-time, a railcard can cut train fares.
• Plan your budget for rent, food, travel and phone bills so your funds last the whole term.
• Thinking of part-time work? Check the hours your visa allows during term time, and apply for a National Insurance number before you start a job.

You’re not on your own

Students we place in the UK get check-ins from our Leeds team after they arrive, so there’s someone nearby if anything feels overwhelming. Learn more about our pre-departure and settlement support.