Things To Know Before Moving to London
So, what should I know before moving to London?
Before coming to the UK, it’s a great idea to be well-prepared. This means taking care of all the necessary administrative tasks, like sorting out your visa paperwork and arranging your accommodation.
We've put together a helpful list to help guide you...
We also suggest some additional things to do before your arrival:
- Visa & Paperwork
- Accommodation arrangements
- Finances ready for studying in the UK, including paying your university fees or setting up a payment schedule
- University paperwork
- Airport transport options like Taxi, Train, or Bus
- Join Facebook groups with other international students in London to connect with like-minded people and make friends before you even get here! You can find more general information on the UWS London main Facebook page.
- Research the area you’ll be living in and plan some fun activities for when you arrive.
- Consider getting a health check (more details in the Healthcare section).
What To Pack...
Remember that most airlines have weight restrictions when packing your bags, so it’s best to pack light. You can get any additional items you need once you’re in the UK.
The weather in the UK can be unpredictable, often cold and wet. Winters rarely drop below freezing, and summers are usually relatively mild, rarely exceeding 25°C.
For life in London, consider bringing the following:
Winter
- A warm waterproof coat
- Warm clothes such as jumpers or fleeces
- A compact umbrella
- Comfortable shoes
- Gloves
Summer
- Hat
- Sunglasses
- Shorts
- Sandals/Summer Footwear
- Suncream
VISA Information
When arriving in London, make sure to promptly register with your university by attending the registration event at the scheduled time and date. Don’t leave your passport behind, as you might need a confirmation letter of your student status for administrative purposes, like opening a bank account or starting a phone contract.
Regarding visas, always check the WWW.GOV.UK website for accurate information or consult a professional like an immigration advisor or your university.
Remember to sort out your student visa before coming to the UK. You can apply for it on the government website. The cost is £348 per person if applying from outside the UK or £475 if extending or switching to a student visa from inside the UK.
If applying from outside the UK, you can do so six months before your course starts. If applying from inside the UK, the earliest is three months before your course starts. Remember to apply before your current visa expires!
For your student visa application, you’ll need the following documents:
- A valid passport or other valid travel documentation
- Confirmation of acceptance for studies
- Proof of finances/income
- English language skills
- Tuberculosis test results
- A valid ATAS certificate if required
Cost of Living
London is known for being one of the most expensive cities in the world. Housing, transportation, and daily expenses can be significantly higher than in other parts of the UK or other countries. Make sure to budget accordingly and research the cost of living in your preferred area.
Good Luck!
We hope this information helps you prepare for your exciting journey to the UK! If you have any questions or need more information, feel free to ask. Safe travels!
