Useful Tips for International Students to Easily Settle in the UK

Priyam Ghosh
October 1, 2025
6:20 pm
8 min Read

Summary

This blog outlines key strategies for international students arriving in the UK, especially under 2025’s updated immigration rules (e.g. Graduate Route reduced to 18 months, stricter dependents’ eligibility, higher proof-of-funds). It advises preparing documentation (visa, CAS, finances), arranging accommodation and airport pickup. Students should budget wisely (costs vary by city), register with NHS & a GP, join campus support groups, learn UK social norms, and get familiar with public transport. Use permitted part-time work, plan post-study options, and take care of mental well-being by staying connected and seeking counselling if needed.

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Studying in the UK offers international students a rich academic environment, cultural diversity, and excellent career opportunities. But settling into a new country involves more than just arriving – it means understanding new laws, culture, finances, and everyday living. With recent changes in UK immigration rules (including updates in 2025), it’s more important than ever to be prepared. PFEC India wants to help ensure your transition is smooth, less stressful, and more successful. Below are practical tips backed by recent updates and student experiences to help you settle in more easily when you arrive in the UK.

Recent Changes Every Student Should Know (2025)

Before you land, be aware of the recent policy shifts that affect international students:

The Graduate Route visa duration has been reduced from 24 months to 18 months for most students in 2025.
Dependants’ rights have been limited: only students on postgraduate research courses or those on certain government-funded programs can now bring dependents.
Proof of maintenance (living expenses) requirements have been increased, particularly for students in London vs outside London.
There is heightened emphasis on compliance by universities: institutions are facing stricter benchmarks for enrolment, course completion, visa refusal rates, etc.

Knowing these in advance helps you plan—not just academically, but financially and socially.

Tips for Studying & Living Successfully in the UK

Here are tried-and-tested tips that will help you adapt faster and make the most of your UK experience

1. Prepare All Documentation Before Arrival

Make sure your visa is sorted, your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) is in order, and you’ve paid the healthcare surcharge. Arrange your accommodation (uni halls or private), travel tickets, and any airport pickup. Having these ready reduces stress in your first few days. UCAS recommends completing these steps early.

2. Budget Smartly—Know the Cost of Living

The UK is expensive, especially London. Estimates for monthly living costs range from ~£900 to £1,400 outside London, and £1,300 to £1,500+ in London for accommodation, bills, food, local travel etc. Make a monthly budget, leave room for emergencies, and try to open a bank account as soon as you can to avoid high transaction fees. Keep an eye on rising housing rents—it is a concern across UK cities.

3. Understand UK Healthcare & Register Quickly

If your student visa is for six months or more, you will have already paid the Immigration Health Surcharge when apply for visa. Once in the UK, register with a General Practitioner (GP) to get access to the NHS services. For non-urgent issues, call 111; for emergencies dial 999. Dental/optician may not be fully covered.

4. Get Connected—University Supports & Peer Groups

Universities have orientation programmes, international student offices, wellbeing services, and societies. Join societies, clubs, or international student groups—they help with acclimatisation, social network building, and often with practical issues. Don’t hesitate to use academic support services like tutoring or English language support, if provided.

5. Learn British Culture & Social Norms

Culture shock is real. UK social norms might feel subtle at first—things like punctuality, queuing, small talk, understatement, and politeness. Also expect variation (accents, local slang). Being curious, asking politely, observing, and adapting helps. Try local food, events, or community activities. This helps in integrating socially.

6. Use Public Transport Wisely & Know Your City

UK transport systems are good but can be complex. Research how to get from airport to accommodation. Buy an Oyster card (in London) or local travel cards. Apps for buses/trains help a lot. Also, walking and cycling are common in many cities. Understanding local transport options and routes saves money and time.

7. Part-Time Work & Career Planning

With a Student Visa you are permitted to work part-time (usually up to 20 hours/week during term time) and full time during breaks. Plan ahead—look for university job boards, local opportunities, internships during study. Start building your CV early. Also consider post-study plans: knowing how the Graduate Route works (now 18 months) is critical.

8. Handle Homesickness & Mental Well-Being

Feeling overwhelmed, missing home, language barriers—these are common. Stay in touch with family/friends back home, but also build your local support. Participate in cultural / recreational activities. Most universities offer counselling or mental health services; use them. Exercise, sleep, good nutrition help balance stress.

Practical Pre-Departure Checklist

Here’s a short checklist to ensure you’ve covered essentials before leaving India:

Confirm your course, institution, and CAS number
Apply for your UK Student Visa and pay the health surcharge
Arrange accommodation and airport transfers
Make sure you have required finances and backup funds
Pack keeping weather in mind (UK winters and rain)
Arrange sim card / mobile plan options for when you arrive
Have copies (both printed and digital) of essential documents (passport, visa, acceptance, finances, insurance)
Connect with any student groups or university forums before arrival

Conclusion

Settling into the UK as an international student is a journey—one with exciting opportunities, but also challenges. With recent immigration changes in 2025, careful planning is more important than ever. By preparing your documentation early, budgeting well, arranging accommodation, engaging with student support services, and being proactive socially and academically, you can reduce stress and focus on growing, learning, and enjoying your time abroad.

PFEC India encourages all students to stay informed (via official UK immigration / university websites), plan ahead, and seek help when needed. Your UK adventure doesn’t have to be overwhelming—it can be one of the most rewarding chapters of your life. Safe travels & best wishes as you start this exciting chapter!

FAQs

Q1: How long can I stay in the UK after graduation?

As of 2025, the Graduate Route visa duration has been reduced to 18 months for most students. Use this time wisely for job applications or visa transitions.

Q2: Can I bring my family / dependents with me?

Rules have tightened. Dependents can usually only accompany students who are in postgraduate research programs or those whose courses are government-funded that meet certain criteria.

Q3: How much money do I need to show for living costs?

You must show proof of maintenance funds (living costs). The exact amount depends on whether you’ll be in London or outside. Be prepared for higher costs in London. Also factor in accommodation, food, transport, books, etc.

Q4: Do I need private health insurance too, or is NHS enough?

Once you’ve paid the immigration health surcharge, you’re eligible to use NHS services, which covers many health issues. However, services like dental/optical or beyond basic care may require additional private insurance depending on your needs. Check what is covered.

Q5: What happens if I overstay or break visa rules?

Staying beyond visa expiry or violating visa conditions (such as working more hours than permitted) can lead to serious immigration consequences, including deportation. Always keep your visa status valid and renew/apply timely.