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By taking a few easy steps you will ensure a great arrival when you study in London. Exchanging the safety of your home for a new life in London is daunting, but fortunately there are international groups that can help students cope. The following information will help you prepare for you stay.

Visa Issues & Immigration

Make sure that you understand the exact visa requirements before you start the process. The UK Border and Immigration Agency (UKBA), UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) and British Council are great sources of information to get you on the right track.

Prior to You Leaving for London

Make sure you have a map of London and know exactly where your college is (Google the location). Internet blogs are a great source of information and worth reading as other people’s views could be very useful. Ask if your school has a Facebook or social network page to put you in touch with other students as no one can help you more than a students that have been through the experience.

Find Your Way in London

The London underground (”Tube”) network is devised into 6 zones and you will be charged in accordance with the area and distance you travel. Zone 6 is where most commuters live and zone 1 is the so called “City” where all the rich and famous live (and bankers). Students get an amazing 30% discount on most public transport in London! Your student card is the key to getting these discounts on almost any duration ticket you buy. The TFL (Transport for London) administers this system and your college should point you to them.

Student Railcards

Anyone aged 16-25 can apply for the railcard and benefit greatly when travelling in the UK. The card is valid for a year and available at most railway stations at a small cost. Look at 16-25railcard.co.uk for more info.

Your New Home

Accommodation in London is plentiful and there will be more than enough options available. Accommodation and schools are almost synonymous and students will always find something that suits their needs.

Your Safety and Health

Students that are on a 12 month or longer course have access to the NHS (National Health Services). Free medical treatment is available for students while they study in London, aside from dentistry. Your college will help you with the process of registering with the NHS.

Employment in London

While you study in London you will be able to work under certain conditions. You must check the latest working conditions before you start working as this is tightly regulated by the UKBA. There are diverse options for employment as many of the top companies in the world have offices in London. The internet is once again a great source of information and a good place to start searching. There are also newspapers that students can look at and some of them are free (Metro & Standard).

Banking Cards for Students

Some banks in your home country may be able to help you set up an account prior to you getting to London. Student accounts are generally available at most London banks, but be sure to take your passport with when going to a bank. Take your time in choosing a bank that is right for you as there are so many options to choose from.

Keeping in Touch

Having a mobile phone in London is a must. London is littered with mobile shops and you will have a choice between a variety of packages. Pay-as-you-go (pre-paid) sim card with cheap international rates are available everywhere and likely the best option. There are many international options and it is worth spending time getting the best one for your home country.

What Next?

Make sure you have chosen the right school for you. This process is made easier by the large volume of information available to help you make this decision. Take some time to read the advice and make sure you ask all the right questions. You can check out some of the schools by joining a summer session during the European summer. Once you have chosen a school you are ready to study in London!