MSC marketing student Sanjna shares her top tips for international students moving to Bath...
So, the university has offered you a place. Your flight confirmation sits proud in your inbox. And your mum’s haggling with you over the number of plates you need to pack. There’s still a couple of months to go, and you’re not quite sure what you’re meant to do with them.
Worry not – we’ve all been there. As a self-declared neurotic planner, here’s my guide to everything you need to do in preparation for moving to the UK.
Before you leave
Check the checklist
The first item on my checklist is, yep – going through another checklist. The university’s Welcome Checklist helps you cover a lot of ground with your preparation and is a great place to start.
Out with the old
If you’ve got an older phone or laptop, trade in for newer models to avoid issues later. Most students choose to get a UK SIM, and I got mine for free during my visa appointment (so keep a look out for that).
Comb over the curriculum
The curriculum for each course changes slightly every year, so it’s best to stay updated. This way, you can also prepare questions for your first meeting with the Director of Studies.
Scour for scholarships
Bath offers a range of scholarships for different courses, but there are also many grants and scholarships offered through the UK government and NGO initiatives. Check British Council, The Alternative Guide for Postgraduate Funding (Bath will provide login information), and incentives offered by your own government. Apply as soon as possible – many close applications early!
Organise the chaos
You’ll find a lot of packing guides for university online, but it’s best to create a customized one for yourself. Check what your accommodation includes and avoid overpacking. During Moving-In Week, the university hosts a sustainability sale where items left behind by previous tenants are sold for a bargain – don’t miss it!
Secure your shots
You may need some vaccinations before going to the UK, and the university lists them all here. Some of them may be multiple doses, so it’s good to get a head start.
Workshop wonder
Bath hosts a range of lovely workshops to help you transition to university life. Don’t miss out – I got a lot of great tips and advice from them.
Jumping into the job scene
If you don’t have a lot of work experience before starting university, you’ll probably be looking at applying to graduate programs in the UK. However, most have deadlines in October or November, and so it’s good to have an updated CV on hand when you meet your career advisor.
Catch the coach
The university has already released its booking link for the free Heathrow Coach Service. Make sure to book your place quickly – seats are limited!
Take your time off
Celebrate your time at home. I took a trip with my family so that we could relax and spend some time together before I had to leave – and I’m so glad I did! You’ll miss home sooner than you think.
Pictures from my trip to Kashmir, India
After you arrive
Money matters
When I first arrived, I had a Forex card (highly recommended!) and some cash to bide my expenses before I could open a bank account. While I did overthink this, I advise you don’t – just pick a bank with 0 fees and little to no international transfer charges.
Register with the NHS
You are required to register with the NHS within the first few weeks of arrival. If you happen to live in the city, register with a practice close to you – the University Medical Centre may not be very convenient if you don’t live on or close to campus.
Apply for the NIN
BRPs are being digitized, and you’ll probably have your NIN (National Insurance Number) recorded on it. But if you don’t – make sure to apply for it here.
Get a Discovery Card
If you’re a full-time student living in Bath for at least one year, you’re eligible to apply for a Discovery Card that gives you loads of discounts and free access to Bath’s best spots!
On the left: The Roman Baths, On the right: The Bath Abbey; both freely accessible with the Resident’s Discovery Card
Get out and about
Explore a little bit of the city every day. Get into town with your flat mates, it’s a great bonding exercise! Go to the international student group meets. You’ll soon be busy with your first semester and won’t have too much time on your hands.
From left to right: The Raven – one of Bath’s oldest pubs, the inside of Scoop Wholefoods on Roseberry Road, a walk down Widcombe Hill from campus, a shop in the Guildhall Market, my friend holding up a pumpkin we carved at the International Student Group Halloween Event (you can see that we make up for lack of skill with our unfettered positive attitude)
Above all – know that you don’t have to have it all figured out. The university is mindful of your journey as an international student and has many resources (and endless patience!) to help you navigate it. All you have to do is reach out!
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