Pre Departure Checklist
• Complete and submit all relevant forms and documents to your school for the course of study or program

• Ensure that you are satisfied with the certifications/qualifications offered by the university/college and that it meets your needs/areas of interest

• Take note of the entry requirements into each school/course. It varies from institution to institution

• Check for the language of instruction in your school/course. Should English be the language of instruction, assess your personal proficiency in speaking and writing. Most schools require a minimum standard of English and might recommend students to clear IELTS or TOEFL tests with required band/scores, a preparatory English course (ranging from a month to a year) if students not scored the required marks in IELTS/TOEFL to help students raise their standard of English. If language entry is not a requirement with schools, students should still personally assess if they are able to understand classes conducted in English and the relevance of an English preparatory course.

When accepted by the university?
• The UK Immigration has implemented various measures to facilitate visa application for entry into United Kingdom. Enquire at the nearest UK Overseas Embassies/High Comissions/ Consulate office in your country or check the UK Immigration website regarding visa requirements for entry into UK. For updated information, please select your nationality or type of travel document you are travelling on from the UK Immigration, Government of UK website

• International students (from India, Nepal, Bhutan, UAE, Bangaladesh, Pakistan etc.) wishing to pursue full-time studies in UK in an institution that is registered with the Department of Education and other authorized bodies; to accept international students, is required to apply for a Student Visa

• Check that you have a passport that is valid for at least 6 months

• Make accommodation arrangements and submit all necessary applications before the stipulated deadline. Some students may choose to organize temporary accommodation for the first few days/weeks to allow sufficient time to adjust to UK living environment and explore various housing options on-site. Some schools/institutions either provide, or are able to assist students in securing accommodation in UK. Do check with your selected school/institution if you wish to use such facilities

• Arrange for a meet and greet service. Most educational institutions offer a meet and greet service. Remember to take down the contact details upon confirmation of service

• Most educational institutions offer an Orientation programme to help international students adjust to living in UK. Confirm the time and details of the programme with your educational institution

• Complete your travel arrangements, preferably with a reputable travel agency. Check with the appropriate airlines on the baggage check-in allowance, as well as the Customs procedures at the Airports in UK

• You should consider applying for medical insurance covering the duration of your study. Enquire with your institution on a recommended health insurance provider in UK.

Final Pre-Departure Checklist
Do you have all essential documents with you?
1. Valid passport.

2. Letter of offer from school of choice

3. Receipts of payments (tuition fees, health coverage, travel insurance, etc)

4. Letter of scholarship award (if applicable)

5. Original/certified copy of your academic transcripts, education certificates, birth certificates, and all other supporting documents required for application/collection of Student's Pass.

6. Other personal identification documents e.g. Driver's license, I.D. card, etc.

7. Some cash in UK Pound - Make sure you bring enough money to cover the first few days/week of stay in UK. It is advisable to carry a small amount of cash (GBP 500), together with larger amounts in bank draft or travelers cheque for the initial period. Take note that bank drafts drawn on overseas banks take about 3 weeks to clear before being deposited into one's account

8. Request for temporary accommodation

9. Request for airport reception

10. Handy contact list containing telephone numbers of friends/relatives, International Student Office within school, accommodation provider, airport reception, etc.

 

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