Your journey begins here

Managing your finances

• To open a bank account you will need: • Your passport

• The letter of acceptance from your institution

• Proof of address and a reference

• Statements from your home bank

• A minimum amount for the initial deposit – check with the bank what this is

• Let the bank know if you travel home during the holidays

• Sharia-compliant services available at some banks

• 16 and 17 year olds can open a basic account

• Advice on managing your budget: www.educationuk.org

Getting to the UK

• Plan your trip carefully

• Budget and destination

• Direct flights available

(London, Manchester, Birmingham, Newcastle, Glasgow)

• Bus and Trains

• Airport taxis

What should I take?

• Travelling documents

• Money

• Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) and accommodation details

• Copy of your medical file from your doctor in the UAE in case you have any recurring illnesses, allergies, or are currently being treated for any illnesses

Some useful tips

• One set of warm clothing

• Some Sterling pounds currency

• Insurance documents

• A list of what is in your luggage

• Medicines (as prescribed by your doctor)

• Contact details for your final destination

• First steps pre-departure pack (you’ll receive this by email)

Keeping safe

• Learn your route home from university as soon as possible

• Buy locks for your bags

• Place valuable items – TV, DVD player – away from the window

• Don’t take short cuts late at night, and avoid using cash machines

• Avoid areas known for petty crime

• Travel/walk home with friends

• Stick to public places

• Don’t carry large sums of money in your wallet

• NEVER leave your bags unattended in public (eg: Starbucks, student cafeteria, tube or bus)

• Remember, most students have a fantastic time in the UK - use common sense to stay safe!

Accommodation

• Separate application to your course

• Deposit required

• General UK accommodation information• www.accommodationforstudents.com

• www.NidoStudentLiving.com

• www.unite-students.com

• www.homesforstudents.co.uk

• www.studentpad.co.uk

Using public transport

Working in the UK

• 20 hours per week during term time

• Full time during holidays

http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/visas-immigration/studying/adult-students/conditions/

• National Association of Student Employment Services (NASES) – www.nases.org.uk

Keeping healthy

• Healthy eating• Exercise• Sleep

• National Health Service (NHS) • To register with your local GP: • Your passport• Proof of your student status• Proof of address

• Or private insurance, for instance www.endsleigh.co.uk

Coping with culture shock

• Keep in touch with friends and family

• Take advantage of the university resources

• Keep mementos of home – photos

• Exercise

• Realise you’re not the only one in this position

• Make the effort to go to university organised orientation days or student mixers to make new friends

For further information, please visit:

http://www.educationuk.org/