Student Unions
Student unions are the hubs of student life at UK universities. At most US universities, no umbrella organization oversees both activities and student services. But in the UK, unions – run by students and for students – provide a one-stop shop for all of your needs: from giving advice on accommodation or finances to organizing sports and arts clubs. Student unions usually run their own cafes which are great for a quick lunch.

Food
Most UK universities have canteens (or dining halls) where students can get affordable and healthy meals. It is common for UK students to sign up for the on-campus dining option their first year and then fend for themselves their second and third years (though a good number of first-year students also opt out of university dining plans). Study abroad students, however, often take advantage of the dining option when it is available as a way to integrate themselves into UK campus life.

Sports
Sports are central to life at UK universities. True, you won’t find huge tailgates like you do at US football games and you won’t see the results of last night’s events on Sports Center or in national newspapers, but you will have the opportunities to play at the highest university level or start as a novice. Students of all ability levels play to get fit, meet friends and learn a new hobby.

Travel
UK students are lucky to have an academic calendar that provides ample time for vacation. The three main breaks are at the winter holidays, spring (around Easter) and summer. Most universities give four or five-week breaks in the winter and spring and 12 weeks in the summer.

Oftentimes classes do not meet on Friday afternoons. As the UK is such a convenient springboard for international travel, you will find many opportunities to take weekend trips to European cities and around the UK.