Moving to the UK to study is an exciting adventure, but settling into a new country can feel overwhelming. From securing accommodation to sorting out mobile SIM cards, we’ve gathered the top tips to make your transition to student life in the UK as smooth as possible.
Getting a UK SIM Card
One of the first things you’ll need is a UK SIM card to stay connected with friends, family, and your new university. Popular mobile networks like EE, O2, Three, and Vodafone offer various student-friendly plans. Look for prepaid (pay-as-you-go) options if you’re not ready to commit to a long-term contract. Many providers also offer special discounts for students, so make sure to ask!
Another important factor is data—many plans offer unlimited social media or large data allowances, which are perfect for international students who frequently use messaging apps like WhatsApp, Skype, or FaceTime. You can compare different SIM-only deals on platforms like Compare the Market or MoneySuperMarket to find the best deal.

You can easily purchase a SIM card at major supermarkets, phone shops, or online, and it’s advisable to get this sorted within the first few days of your arrival.
Finding Your Nearest Supermarket
Grocery shopping is an essential part of daily life, and the UK offers a variety of supermarkets to suit all budgets. Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and ASDA are popular choices for affordable groceries, each offering loyalty programs where you can earn points for future discounts. If you’re looking for budget-friendly options, Aldi and Lidl are great for discounted goods, while Waitrose offers more premium products. Many of these stores have their own brands, which are often cheaper but of good quality.

Additionally, consider signing up for supermarket loyalty cards like Tesco Clubcard or Sainsbury’s Nectar Card to enjoy discounts and earn points every time you shop. There are also plenty of international supermarkets in most UK cities where you can find ingredients from your home country.
Make a list of what you need, and check for student discounts in supermarkets. You can also download apps like Too Good To Go to find local stores offering unsold food at a discounted price, which helps reduce food waste and saves money.
Setting Up Internet in Your Accommodation in the UK
Having reliable internet is crucial for both studying and staying connected with loved ones. If your accommodation doesn’t provide internet, you’ll need to arrange it yourself. Major providers like BT, Virgin Media, and Sky offer various packages, including high-speed broadband and bundle deals that include TV and phone services. Depending on your area, you might also find local providers offering competitive packages.

When choosing a broadband provider, check the contract length and cancellation policies—many students opt for shorter 9-month contracts, especially if they’re only in the UK for the academic year. Some providers even offer special deals for students with more flexible terms and no early cancellation fees.
If you’re in a shared accommodation, consider splitting the cost with your housemates to save money. Using comparison websites like Uswitch can help you find the best deals based on your postcode.
Understanding Your Accommodation Options
Whether you’re living in university halls or private accommodation, understanding your housing contract is important. If you’re renting privately, take time to understand the terms of your lease, such as deposit requirements and your responsibilities as a tenant. Make sure to also check if bills like water, gas, and electricity are included in your rent. This is common in student housing but varies across different types of accommodation.

If you’re staying in university halls, make sure to familiarise yourself with the residence rules, including what you can and cannot bring with you. For private housing, platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom are excellent for finding flats or house shares. Always inspect the property, meet the landlord, and ask for a formal tenancy agreement before committing. Many universities also have accommodation offices that can help with advice and support.
If you’re looking to save money, consider flat-sharing with other students, which also gives you an opportunity to meet new people and share living costs.
Looking for an accommodation? Find our comprehensive guide on international student accommodation options in the UK.
Exploring Local Libraries
Libraries in the UK offer more than just books—they’re also excellent places to study, meet other students, and use free internet. Many university libraries are open 24/7 for students, equipped with quiet study zones, group study rooms, and often cafes. If you need additional resources, local public libraries are also fantastic options. You can easily sign up for a library card, which allows you to borrow books, use computers, or access study spaces for free.
Public libraries also provide access to digital resources such as online journals, eBooks, and audiobooks, which are particularly useful if you need materials outside of your university’s offerings. They sometimes also host community events, such as book clubs and cultural activities, which are a great way to meet new people and integrate into local life.
Exploring both your university and local libraries can help you discover new resources and find study environments that work best for you.
Opening a UK Bank Account in the UK
Opening a UK bank account is essential for managing your finances while studying. Most major banks such as HSBC, Lloyds, and Barclays offer student accounts with perks like interest-free overdrafts. This can be particularly useful to manage your budget without incurring extra charges. You may also find additional perks such as free railcards or vouchers when opening a student account.

To open an account, you’ll typically need your passport, proof of student status, and proof of address (which can be your accommodation contract). The process can take a few days, so it’s a good idea to get started early.
Having a UK bank account can also make paying rent and bills easier, as many landlords and utility companies prefer payments through direct debit. Some banks also offer mobile banking apps, which make it easy to track your spending and manage your account.
Making Use of Student Discounts in the UK
Don’t miss out on the great student discounts available throughout the UK. From restaurants to clothing stores, your student ID can save you a lot of money. Student discount cards like TOTUM (previously NUS Extra) offer discounts on a wide range of services and products, including travel, food, and entertainment.
Additionally, download apps like UNiDAYS or Student Beans, which provide exclusive discounts at hundreds of shops and online stores. Many high street retailers, cinemas, and even tech companies such as Apple and Microsoft offer year-round discounts for students.
These discounts are a great way to manage your budget while enjoying student life to the fullest. Keep an eye out for special student events and sales during key periods like Freshers’ Week or back-to-school promotions.
Navigating UK Transport: Inter- and Intra-City Travel
Getting around the UK, whether it’s within your city or travelling between different regions, is made easy with a range of transportation options. Familiarising yourself with the transport system is key to saving time and money while exploring the UK.
Intra-City Travel
Most UK cities have excellent public transport systems. Buses, trams, and local trains are the primary means of transport within cities. In London, the Underground (Tube) is the most popular mode of travel, while cities like Manchester, Nottingham, and Sheffield have convenient tram systems. To use public transport, you’ll often need a contactless card or a local travel card like Oyster in London or TfGM Travelcard in Manchester. These cards allow you to tap in and out for easy and fast payments.
As a student, you can take advantage of discounted travel passes or student fare reductions. For instance, many bus companies offer weekly, monthly, or term-long student travel cards, which significantly reduce transport costs. In London, students can apply for an 18+ Student Oyster card, which provides 30% off travelcards and bus passes.
For a more environmentally friendly option, many cities in the UK have robust cycling networks, with dedicated lanes and bike-sharing schemes like Santander Cycles in London and Nextbike in cities like Glasgow and Cardiff. Cycling is an affordable and flexible way to get around, especially if you live close to your university.

Inter-City Travel
When it comes to travelling between cities, trains and coaches are the most popular options. Trains operated by companies like National Rail, LNER, and Avanti West Coast offer quick, comfortable journeys across the UK. Train fares can vary widely depending on how early you book, so it’s worth purchasing tickets in advance using platforms like Trainline or National Rail. As a student, you can also apply for a 16-25 Railcard, which gives you 1/3 off most rail fares, making frequent trips more affordable.
If you’re looking for a cheaper option, coaches like National Express or Megabus are great for longer journeys between cities. While they take longer than trains, coach travel is often significantly cheaper, especially if you book early. Many operators offer special student discounts, and you can also find deals through apps like Coachcards or directly from the coach companies.
Tips for Saving on Transport in the UK
Download transport apps like Citymapper, Trainline, or National Rail to plan your journeys efficiently and get live updates on delays or disruptions.
Always check if there are student discounts available on travel cards, tickets, and apps.
If you’ll be travelling frequently between cities, consider investing in a 16-25 Railcard or a National Express Young Persons Coachcard for long-term savings.
Conclusion
Settling into student life in the UK takes time, but with the right information, you’ll soon feel at home. From finding the best SIM card and accommodation to navigating UK transport and making use of student discounts, these tips will help you adjust quickly and start enjoying your time in the UK. Have other suggestions? let us know in the comments.
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