London beckons! As an international student, you’re about to experience a vibrant city brimming with opportunity. But before you dive into the excitement, it’s crucial to tackle some essential pre-arrival tasks. Let me, Dharshini, a Master’s student at King’s, guide you through a smooth transition into your new life.
Pre-Arrival Preparations
First things first: documentation. Ensure your student visa and any necessary financial papers are complete and valid before you set foot in the UK. For a comprehensive list of travel essentials, check out our article “Setting into life in London as an international student.” Don’t forget to double-check the ‘valid from’ date on your student visa; arriving before that could cause complications.
Financial preparedness is key. Carry some cash and a travel money card to cover initial expenses before opening a UK bank account. This is important because opening a bank account can take time, so having alternative ways to pay will make your first few weeks much easier. Plan your journey to your accommodation in advance to avoid any surprises.
Accommodation matters. Secure accommodation before you arrive in London to avoid the stress of searching for a place to stay upon your arrival. King’s residences offer a great sense of community, and residents enjoy free access to King’s gyms and the Beactive program, which are fantastic for maintaining well-being during your studies. Private student accommodations are also a good option, offering opportunities to meet students from other universities.
If you prefer renting privately, King’s has your back! Use the resources available: check advice from Student Services Online, get support from the Money & Housing Advice team, and explore the KCLSU housing resources. Be cautious of accommodation scams! King’s has compiled valuable information and tips to protect you in the article “What accommodation scams are there, and how can I avoid them?”
Settling In and Connecting
Now that you’re settled, it’s time to get organized! To stay connected with your loved ones back home, get a UK SIM card with affordable international calls and good service coverage.
Managing your finances is essential. Research and compare student bank accounts to find one that suits your needs. Remember, it might take a while to receive your debit card, so keep those travel funds handy.
Don’t forget about your health! Register with a general practitioner (GP) as soon as possible to ensure you can access healthcare when needed. The King’s NHS Health Centre is a great option, offering services exclusively for King’s students. For more information on accessing NHS services, read our article “How can I register with a doctor and/or dentist?”
Mastering London Transport
Exploring London efficiently is a breeze! Make the most of the city’s extensive transport network. Transport for London (TfL) runs London’s public transport system, which is cashless, so get an Oyster card for convenient travel. Student Oyster cards offer a 30% discount on travelcards, buses, and trams.
Venturing beyond London? Get a railcard for discounted national train tickets and link it to your Oyster card to enjoy 1/3 off pay-as-you-go off-peak tube fares. Navigate the city with ease using the TfL Go or Citymapper app.
For a different perspective, try cycling! London offers many routes with dedicated cycle lanes.
Navigating the City and Weather
Be prepared for London’s ever-changing weather! Pack a variety of clothes, especially warm ones for winter, and always carry an umbrella or waterproof coat, as rain is a common occurrence – even in the summer!
London is a bustling city with a lot of traffic, which can make walking around central London a bit hectic. But don’t let that deter you! There are plenty of peaceful parks and quiet spots to discover. Take some time to explore on foot and unearth London’s hidden gems!
Making the Most of Your Student Life
Student discounts abound in the UK! Ask about student discounts everywhere you go, from cafes to major retailers. Download the Unidays app or get a Totum student card to access exclusive deals. You can also often use your King’s student ID to get discounts.
Building connections is essential! Connect with your course mates through Instagram, Facebook groups, and LinkedIn before you arrive. Attending the ‘International Student Welcome’ is a great way to meet other international students and feel part of the King’s community. Don’t miss the Welcome to King’s events from Monday 9th to Friday 20th September 2024 for opportunities to join societies, meet people from different departments, and make new friends. Stay up-to-date with our official Instagram account @lifeatkings and the Welcome to King’s app.
Embarking on a new adventure can be daunting, but remember, you’re not alone. Check out Akashika’s article “How to feel at home in London: an international student’s perspective” for tips on transitioning to a new place and settling in. Now, go out there and make the most of your student life in London!
