Essential Tips for Your First Day at a UK University

Are you worried about your first day at university in the UK? Studying abroad is an enjoyable journey for everyone, but the day you enter your university can be daunting. When you step into your dream university, your heart beats fast. In a new place, you can feel excited, afraid, and emotional at the same time. But you don’t need to be worried about that. These things happen to everyone. But if you think about your potential and the sleepless nights you’ve overcome before getting your UK student visa, things will seem normal to you. 

Usually, UK universities organise different freshers’ events like campus orientation, student fairs etc. so, the first day of university will be full of tons of sweet memories. In this blog, we will share some essential tips for your first day at a UK university and a freshers’ day guide. So, if you’re dreaming of studying in the UK, this guide will help you. 

Things You Should Check Before the First Day of Your UK University

All your study abroad excitement may be fused for a while after you enter the UK. A new place, new journey, unknown rules, and unknown persons around you may cause a cultural shock for you. Cultural adjustment may take some time but if you manage some things on the very first day of your journey, things will be easier for you. We will recommend you enter the UK at least 15 to 20 days before your orientation. After arriving in the UK, you should check the following things first:

• Student Accommodation at the university and outside the university
• Transportation options
• Availability of public transport in UK
• Collect the study resources (books, pens, notebooks, pencils, etc.)
• Make a perfect meal plan
• Find the student societies where most of the student lives
• Collect the campus map and make a proper time management plan so that you won’t be late on your first day on campus
• Also, learning some local etiquette will be helpful for social networking

Must-Have Study Resources For New Students

As an international student in UK, you should bring something with you on your first day at a UK university. Such as-

• Student ID (if you have one)
• Diary or notebooks.
• Laptops or tablets.
• Campus map
• Textbooks
• Stationery such as pencils, pens, folders, and highlighters

Essential Tips for Your First Day at University

Remember, you’re not alone! Most students feel nervous, and everyone on campus will be glad to see a friendly smile or hear a “hello” on the first day. Try reaching out to others and challenge yourself to say hi to one new person each time you go somewhere different. Let’s learn some essential tips for your first day at university in the UK.

• Check Out Facebook Groups
• Visit the Campus Beforehand
• Check the Information Packet
• Enroll and Print Out Your Timetable
• Get Your Student ID
• Check your email the day before
• Sign Up for an Orientation Event
• Get Sufficient Sleep
• Arrive As Soon As You Can

Check Out Facebook Groups

Once you get your confirmation letter or email, you can join public and private Facebook groups for new students that many UK universities have. These groups let you see the faces of people you might meet on your first day at university. You can chat with other new students or seniors and even make plans to meet up. This way, you’ll have some new students to spend your first day with. These groups are also helpful for finding out about the campus, faculty, campus facilities, safety tips and other useful tips shared by past students.

Visit the Campus Beforehand

Whether you’re coming from outside the EU or are a local student, it’s a good idea to explore the campus if you’re new to the city or area where your UK university is located. If your university is in a big city like London or has a large campus like Aberystwyth University in Wales, it can be easy to get lost. To avoid this on your first day, try walking around the campus a day or two early to find your classrooms, the library, bathrooms, and other important places.

Check the Information Packet

UK universities usually send a detailed guide or information packet by mail or attach it to your welcome email. This will include details about signing up for courses and any steps you need to complete on your student portal before classes start. Be sure to read through it so you don’t miss important information, like which courses you can take in your first semester. This leads us to the next point. You should also some university advice for the UK from the academic advisors.

Enroll and Print Out Your Timetable

Each UK university has its process for course enrolment. You’ll likely get an email about a month before, explaining the dates and steps to follow. Once you’ve signed up for your courses, the university will send you your schedule for the semester, along with the names of your instructors. To avoid being late to class, it’s a good idea to print a copy of your timetable.

Get Your Student ID

Every UK university has its way of handling student IDs. Before classes start, you may be asked to send a photo and other details by email while pre-registering. Or, they might take your photo and ask for some information on enrolment day. Be sure to keep your student ID with you on your first day at university. You can wear it on a lanyard around your neck or keep it in your wallet so it’s always with you.

Check your email the day before

Some professors may send emails to their students before classes start. These might be simple welcome messages or may include a list of books and supplies you’ll need for the first day. They could also contain other important instructions or even reading assignments to get you started.

Sign Up for an Orientation Event

Orientation events are usually for all students, but some universities may make them optional. If you’re an international student coming to the UK for the first time, these events can be very helpful. You’ll learn about the campus, your faculty, academic rules, social events, and other useful information for your first semester. Orientation may also include a campus tour.

Get Sufficient Sleep

The excitement and nerves of starting school might make it hard to sleep the night before, but you don’t want to show up tired and low on energy. Try to get a few hours of sleep so you can enjoy your first day without feeling worn out halfway through. You want to be ready for a big day! If you’re moving into a dorm, unpack as early as you can. This way, you can get a good night’s sleep without having to search for things you’ll need the next day. Make sure you shouldn’t late at your first day at university. 

Arrive As Soon As You Can

Once you know your way around campus, have your timetable, and have gotten enough sleep, all that’s left is to get to class on time. Arriving a bit early gives you time to relax and feel less nervous. You’ll also have a chance to talk with classmates and make a few new friends, which can help you feel more comfortable for the rest of the day.

Get the Library Access and Join the University Club

From the first day, you should explore the library and checkout the university clubs. Joining the university clubs according to your interest will help you to overcome from the cultural shock. Also, getting the library access will help you get important books needed to prepare for your subject. 

Important Tips for Adjusting To UK Culture As A New Student

Being an international student and studying abroad is an exciting and rewarding experience. You’ll expand your view of the world, make new friends from different countries, and improve your job prospects. It’s completely normal to feel unsure about moving to a new culture and wonder if you’ll fit in.

Studying in the UK, especially in London, is a great opportunity because the city has a unique mix of many different cultures and people from all over the world. Here are some tips for adjusting to UK culture as a new student. 

• Work on your English to make communication easier. Check out our resources for boosting your English language skills
• Sign up for your university’s student union and go to events for new and international students
• Remember that feeling homesick is normal, and it will get better as you adjust to your new surroundings
• Join community groups or volunteer in your area to meet people in your university town. Find out more about volunteering
• Connect with your tutor early for guidance and support
• Keep up with local events and news by reading newspapers

Some Practical Tips for Living in the UK

International needs some practical tips to survive the UK from the very first day at university. So, here are some practical for living in the UK. 

Accommodation in UK

University accommodation usually fills up fast after study offers are made, so you should check what’s available as soon as you accept your place in a course.

Private student halls are a popular option for international students. They often provide comfortable rooms, social areas, laundry facilities, and more, all in one location. Plus, they are usually in great spots, close to the city center or near your university campus.

Healthcare Service in UK

If you’re studying in the UK for six months or more, you will have paid a health surcharge when you applied for your visa. This allows you to use the National Health Service (NHS) for healthcare during your stay at no extra cost. However, dental care in the UK usually comes with additional fees.

When you arrive, you should register with a GP (doctor). Many universities have a health center where students can sign up. In a medical emergency in the UK, call 999. For non-emergency medical help, call 111.

Banking and Money for International Students in UK

Opening a basic UK bank account, known as a current account, is a smart way to keep your money safe and manage it easily. Check out our tips on how to open a UK bank account for more help.

In towns and cities, you can pay for most things with a bank card or digital card, so you won’t need to carry a lot of cash. This makes shopping and dining out much more convenient! Plus, it’s a great way to track your spending and manage your budget effectively.

Final Words

Your first day at university in the UK doesn’t have to be as stressful as you might think. It’s normal to feel a bit anxious about starting something new, like a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree. You can ease some of those nerves with the tips we’ve shared here and make the most of your day. If you need help with UK university admissions, feel free to reach out AIMS Education.

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