Everything you need before landing in the UK
Banking, SIM cards, packing lists, and culture briefings curated specifically for Indian students.
Complete Pre-Departure Support
Accommodation Support
University halls vs. private rentals, tenancy agreements, deposits, and securing housing before arrival.
Banking Setup
Open UK bank account, understand overdrafts, student accounts, and international transfers.
SIM & Connectivity
Best mobile plans for students, SIM cards, internet providers, and staying connected with family.
Packing Checklist
What to bring, what to buy there, airline restrictions, and essential items for UK life.
City Guides
Transportation, shopping areas, Indian stores, places of worship, and student hotspots.
Budget Templates
Monthly expense breakdown, grocery costs, dining out, and tips to save money as a student.
Pre-Departure Timeline
Month-by-month checklist to ensure you're fully prepared
3 Months Before
- Apply for university accommodation
- Book flights (best prices)
- Order forex card or inform your bank
- Start packing checklist
- Join university Facebook groups
2 Months Before
- Open UK bank account (if online option available)
- Research SIM card options
- Book airport pickup or train tickets
- Inform landlord (if private rental)
- Plan first week meals
1 Month Before
- Pack luggage (check airline limits)
- Photocopy all documents
- Download offline maps
- Set up international roaming
- Say goodbyes and attend orientation webinars
1 Week Before
- Confirm accommodation check-in details
- Share flight details with family
- Charge all devices
- Keep emergency contacts handy
- Review campus map
Packing Essentials
Documents
- Passport + visa
- CAS letter
- Offer letter
- Financial documents
- Medical records
- Travel insurance
- 10 passport photos
Finances
- Forex card (£500-1000)
- Credit/debit cards
- Bank statements
- Emergency cash (£100)
- Scholarship letters
- Fee payment receipts
Clothing
- Winter jacket (essential)
- Formal wear (1-2 sets)
- Comfortable shoes
- Raincoat/umbrella
- Traditional outfit (optional)
- Layers for UK weather
Electronics
- Laptop + charger
- Phone + charger
- Universal adapter (UK 3-pin)
- Power bank
- Headphones
- External hard drive
Monthly Budget Planner
Average monthly expenses for Indian students in the UK (in GBP £)
| Category | London | Other Cities |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | £600 - £800 | £400 - £600 |
| Groceries | £200+ | £150+ |
| Transport | £60+ | £40+ |
| Phone & Internet | £30+ | £25+ |
| Entertainment | £100+ | £80+ |
| Miscellaneous | £100+ | £80+ |
| Total (approx.) | £1,090 - £1,300 | £775 - £950 |
Popular Student Cities
London
- Excellent public transport
- Diverse food scene
- Indian communities in Wembley, Southall
Manchester
- Student-friendly
- Lower costs
- Strong Indian community
- Great nightlife
Birmingham
- Central location
- Large Indian population
- Affordable accommodation
Edinburgh
- Beautiful architecture
- Safe city
- High quality of life
UK Culture Primer
Social Etiquette
Queuing is sacred, "please" and "thank you" are essential, and small talk about weather is normal.
Making Friends
Join societies, attend freshers events, be open to diverse cultures, and do not be afraid to initiate.
Food Scene
Tesco, Sainsburys for groceries. Indian stores: Patel Brothers, Quality Foods. Dining out: £10-15 average.
Transportation
Student Oyster (London), railcards (⅓ off trains), buses are cheaper than trains. Download Citymapper app.
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