CHAPTER
4.1
Living in the UK
Your complete guide to settling into British life
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Living Quick Facts
FREE
NHS Healthcare
999
Emergency Number
30%
Student Discounts
Left
Side Driving
Accommodation Options
Finding the right place to live is crucial for your UK experience. Understanding your options will help you make the best choice for your lifestyle, budget, and social needs.
Recommended for Year 1
On-Campus (University Halls)
Official university accommodation
£500-900
/month
All inclusive
5 pros
/
4 cons
More Freedom
Off-Campus (Private Housing)
Private accommodation options
£300-700
/month
Plus Utilities
5 pros
/
4 cons
View All Pros & Cons
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing
Budget & Finances
Social & Lifestyle
Location & Transport
Practical Considerations
Health and Well-being
International students on a Student Visa have access to the National Health Service (NHS) - one of the world's best healthcare systems. Here's everything you need to know about staying healthy in the UK
NHS Access for Student Visa Holders
GP Appointments
Hospital Treatment
£9.90 Prescription Cost per item
💡 Important
You've already paid the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) as part of your visa application, which gives you full access to NHS services.
GP Registration Process (Do This First!)
Find a Local GP Practice
Use the NHS website or ask your university for recommendations near your accommodation
Book a Registration Appointment
Call or visit the practice. Some allow online registration
Bring Required Documents
Passport, eVisa share code, proof of address, and university enrolment letter
Complete Registration Forms
Medical history, emergency contacts, and consent forms
Download NHS App
Book appointments, order prescriptions, and access health records
Important Emergency Contacts
999
Life-threatening emergencies Police, Fire, Ambulance
Call this number for serious issues like chest pain, severe bleeding, difficulty breathing, unconsciousness, or suspected stroke.
111
Non-emergency medical advice 24/7 NHS helpline
Minor injuries, fever, medication questions, when GP is closed
Student Visa vs Short-term Study Visa
Choosing the right visa is crucial for your UK study experience. Here's a clear comparison to help you decide which visa type suits your needs.
Topics
Student Visa
Short-term Study Visa
Best for
Degree-level or long-term study in the UK
Short English language courses only
Eligible courses
Degrees, foundation courses, PhD, pre-sessional, non-English courses
English language courses only
Course length
Up to 5 years for degree-level courses (longer for some postgraduate study)
6–11 months only
Sponsor required
Yes – licensed UK institution (CAS required)
No visa sponsor required (course must be accredited)
Length of stay
Course length + additional time after completion
Course length + up to 30 days (maximum 11 months total)
Work allowed
Yes – up to 20 hours/week during term (subject to course level)
No work allowed
Work placements
Allowed (if part of the course)
Not allowed
Dependants
Allowed for eligible postgraduate research courses (rules apply)
Not allowed
Visa application fee
£524
£214
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
£776 per year
£776 (one-time)
Extend or switch in the UK
Possible (subject to rules)
Not allowed
Choose this if…
You want a full UK study experience, work rights, or long-term study
You only want to study English short-term
Weekly Schedule Example
Effective time management and learning organization are crucial for academic success. Here are proven strategies to help you excel in your studies.
Time
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
9:00-11:00
Lecture
Study
Lecture
Library
Study Group
Library
Library
11:00-13:00
Lecture
Study
Lecture
Library
Study Group
Library
Library
9:00-11:00
Lecture
Study
Lecture
Library
Study Group
Library
Library
9:00-11:00
Lecture
Study
Lecture
Library
Study Group
Library
Library
9:00-11:00
Lecture
Study
Lecture
Library
Study Group
Library
Library
9:00-11:00
Lecture
Study
Lecture
Library
Study Group
Library
Library
Accommodation Options
Finding the right place to live is crucial for your UK experience. Understanding your options will help you make the best choice for your lifestyle, budget, and social needs.
On-Campus (University Halls)
Pro
- Close to campus and facilities
- Great for meeting other students
- Utilities and internet included
- Security and support available
- No need for deposits or guarantors
Cons
- More expensive than shared housing
- Less independence and privacy
- Limited choice in roommates
- Stricter rules and regulations
Off-Campus (Private Housing)
Pro
- Often cheaper when shared
- More independence and freedom
- Choose your own housemates
- Variety of locations available
- Real British living experience
Cons
- Requires deposits and guarantors
- Need to arrange utilities separately
- Less support when issues arise
- Potential for disputes with landlords
Congratulations! Guide Complete! 🎉
You've completed all 8 chapters of the Study UK Guide!
8
Chapters
100+
Key Insights
Opportunities
You're now equipped with comprehensive knowledge to succeed in your UK education journey. Your next step: put this knowledge into action!
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Congratulations! Guide Complete! 🎉
You've completed all 8 chapters of the Study UK Guide!
8
Chapters
100+
Key Insights
Opportunities
You're now equipped with comprehensive knowledge to succeed in your UK education journey. Your next step: put this knowledge into action!