Studying in the UK is a dream for many international students, especially those from Pakistan. The UK offers world-class education and a multicultural environment that attracts thousands of students annually. However, before packing your bags and moving to the UK for your studies, there are some mandatory steps you need to take to ensure a smooth transition.
Steps Pakistani students should take before moving to the UK for their studies are discussed in this article for your ease. From planning your flight to finding someplace to stay, these steps will help make your move as stress-free as possible and help you focus on your academic journey in one of the world’s most prestigious universities.
1. Plan your funding and look for scholarship options
The most important requirement of studying abroad is to have enough money to sponsor your education. Studying in the UK can be financially demanding, so planning your finances in advance is important. Research and explore scholarship opportunities within Pakistan and the UK to fund your education. Additionally, consider personal savings, family support, or educational loans as potential funding sources. Create a budget that covers tuition fees, living expenses, rental fees, transportation, and other miscellaneous costs so that you are aware of your potential expenses.
2. Arrange accommodation
Begin your search for a living space early, as availability may vary depending on the city and the time of year. Getting your accommodation sorted out before you land in the UK would be best to avoid any inconvenience. There are multiple options for student accommodation in the UK, including university-provided options, such as halls of residence or student apartments. Living in these halls is the best option as they are cheaper than other options and provide easy access to the university. Other options include private rentals and shared apartments. In another article, we have provided the details of how to find affordable accommodation in the UK.
While looking for accommodation, research the local rental market, compare prices, and review tenant rights and responsibilities. If you want private housing, apply for accommodation before leaving your country.
3. Carrying your money
After completing your visa application, you will get the idea of how much money you are going to need to support yourself after arriving in the UK. There are two ways, you can use to carry your money.
- Currency exchange
- Opening a Bank Account
It is important that you change some of your local currency into pound sterling so you have some cash upon your arrival in UK. But carrying a large amount of money in form of cash is not recommended as it is not safe.There is another way to keep your money safe, by opening a student bank account.
Opening a student bank account can be a lengthy process but it keeps your money safe and makes it easy to pay the bills. To open a bank account, you will need to provide the proof of your identification (your passport), proof of address in both countries (country of your birth and country of your stay) and university confirmation letter as a proof of your student status.
4. Health and Safety: Get Vaccinated, Insured and Informed
- It is advised to get a complete physical examination before leaving for UK and make sure your vaccinations are up to date. You can register with the university doctor after you arrive in the UK.
- You must obtain comprehensive health insurance coverage to safeguard yourself against any unexpected medical expenses during your stay in the UK. Usually, students are charged a health surcharge as a part of their visa application to access the NHS during their stay in the UK.
5. Book your flight in time
Book your flights to the UK ahead of your schedule to secure better deals.
6. Arrange your documents
Ensure that your travel documents, such as your passport and visa, are valid for your stay. Keep the back up of all your important documents and make their photocopies and place your documents in a secure and easily accessible place.
7. Make a Pick-Up arrangement
Sometimes universities offer meet and greet services to international students, so find out if the university will provide pick–up service from the airport to the university or if you must arrange your transportation to your university.
8. Know your rights to work
You must know your options and rights to work in the UK to make money while studying. With your student visa, you can work as much as 20 hours per week while studying and work full-time during the holidays, as well as before and after your course starts.
9. Prepare for cultural differences
Before you arrive in the UK:
- Take your time to learn about the UK’s culture, customs, and lifestyle.
- Research the local traditions, social norms, and etiquette present there.
- Connect with current or former students from Pakistan who have studied in the UK through social media platforms to gain insights and advice about weather conditions, local transportation systems, and nearby amenities.
Generally, the UK is known for its cold and wet weather, packing lots of warm clothes and coats would be beneficial. Culturally, the UK is diverse and welcoming for people from across the world. Most universities of the UK accommodate many international students, and they have societies to assist you in meeting like-minded people and those from similar backgrounds.
10. Pack the things in the bag
Pack lightly because most flights only allow 23 to 32 kg, and because the UK is multicultural, you can buy practically anything there. Learn the regulations to know the limitations on the items you can bring into the UK, including specific foods, plants, and large sums of money. Pack a bag that you can carry in your hand that contains your documents, money, warm clothing, and contact information for your university.
Conclusion:
Preparing well in advance is key to successfully transitioning from Pakistan to the UK for study. Following these essential steps can ensure a smooth and organized process, allowing you to focus on your academic pursuits and maximize your educational experience in the United Kingdom. HSA consultants are the best consultants in town to make your UK student visa journey a smooth and stress-free journey.
You can also read our complete guide about STUDY VISA FOR UK | Requirements, Processing time, and Fees.