Landing in a new country can feel overwhelming — but you don’t need to panic. With a clear action plan, your first week in the UK can be smooth, productive, and even enjoyable.
This detailed checklist is designed especially for international students to ensure nothing is missed — from critical documents to daily essentials.
1. Collect Your BRP (Biometric Residence Permit)
Your BRP is a crucial ID that confirms your right to study, live, and work in the UK. Without it, you cannot register for many services.
🔹 Where to collect: Post Office (check your visa letter) or your university campus 🔹 When: Within first week of arrival 🔹 What to bring: Passport, visa decision letter, and arrival details
đź”— How to Find Your BRP Collection Location
2. Get a UK SIM Card
Stay connected from day one. A UK SIM card helps with navigation, university emails, emergency calls, and job applications.
🔹 Choose from: giffgaff, EE, Vodafone, Three 🔹 Prepaid (pay-as-you-go) or monthly contracts 🔹 Bring your passport and proof of address if required
đź”— Compare Best UK SIM Cards for Students
3. Open a UK Bank Account
Having a local bank account is essential to:
- Receive payments (jobs or family transfers)
- Pay for rent, tuition, and subscriptions
🏦 Top student-friendly banks:
- Monzo – great app & instant alerts
- Lloyds – wide branch network
- HSBC/NatWest – established student offers
đź’ˇ Pro Tip: Some banks require a proof of address and university enrollment letter.
đź”— Step-by-Step Guide to Opening a UK Bank Account
4. Register with a GP (Doctor)
Access to healthcare is free under the NHS, but only if you register with a local GP (General Practitioner).
🔹 Use your UK address to find a GP nearby on the NHS website 🔹 Provide your BRP, student letter, and possibly a utility bill
đź’ˇ Tip: Check if your university has an on-campus medical centre.
đź”—NHS GP Registration Guide for Students
5. Register with the Police (If Required)
Some nationalities must register within 7 days of arrival. This will be mentioned in your visa vignette or approval letter.
đź“ť What you need:
- Passport and BRP
- Address and contact info
- Passport-sized photos
6. Attend University Induction & Orientation
Orientation week is your gateway to everything you need to know:
- Academic rules, plagiarism, grading
- Library and IT systems
- Student societies and events
💡 Don’t miss your course-specific welcome events and international student briefings.
đź”— What to Expect at UK University Orientation
7. Buy Bedding & Kitchen Essentials
UK accommodation often provides only basic furniture. You’ll need:
- Bedding (duvet, pillow, bedsheets)
- Kitchen supplies (pan, utensils, kettle)
đź›’ Where to buy:
- Primark, Wilko, IKEA, Argos
- Amazon UK or local campus shops
đź”— Best Student Starter Kits for UK Accommodation
8. Learn Your Local Transport System
You’ll be commuting to lectures, job interviews, and hangouts — get familiar with local travel.
🚍 Key things to explore:
- Local bus networks (Google Maps or Moovit app)
- Discounted travel cards: 16–25 Railcard, Student Oyster
- University shuttle services
đź”— Student Travel Cards and Discounts in the UK
9. Set Up a UK Address & Update Records
Once you’ve moved in:
- Confirm address with your university
- Update UKVI (visa sponsor), GP, bank, and mobile provider
- Register to vote (optional but recommended for residents)
đź”—How to Update Your UK Address with UKVI
10. Join Student Groups and Explore Your Campus
It’s important to build connections early:
- Join cultural, career, and sports societies
- Attend fresher’s week and welcome parties
- Use campus tours to learn shortcuts and find help desks
đź’ˇ Ask about mental health resources, career counselling, and academic advisors.
Start Strong with Global Grads
Your first week in the UK shapes your entire student experience. Tick off this checklist to feel confident, organised, and ready to thrive!
Need help navigating UK student life? We’re here to support you every step of the way.
đź”— Book a Complementary counseling session with Global Grads
