As an international student studying in the UK, navigating through a new country can feel overwhelming at times. From finding accommodation to exploring travel options and discovering local resources, we understand the challenges you may face. To help make your life easier and ensure a smooth transition, we have compiled a list of essential websites that will be your go-to companions throughout your journey.
Let’s dive in!
Essential Official Websites for International Students
British Council
- The British Council provides valuable resources and information for students interested in studying in the UK.
- The Study UK website, operated by the British Council, offers practical insights and guidance on studying in the UK.
- The website provides information on various topics, including tips on how to apply for scholarships.
- Additionally, the Study UK website features a database of approved agencies in your country that can assist you with the application process to UK universities.
- The UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) offers support to international students in the UK.
- They operate a dedicated helpline to address the specific needs of international students.
- Their website provides comprehensive information on topics like student visa applications and post-study work visa eligibility.
- The NHS (National Health Service) website is a valuable resource providing a complete guide to medical conditions, symptoms, and treatments.
- It offers comprehensive information on what to do in emergency situations.
- The website includes a database that details the workings of different medicines, including information on potential side effects.
Official Websites of Your School
- Official university websites provide comprehensive information on academic programs, courses, and admission guidelines.
- They highlight scholarships and funding opportunities available to international students.
- Support services for international students, including visa and immigration advice, accommodation assistance, and counseling, are accessible through these websites.
- Campus facilities, resources, and events are showcased, giving international students an overview of the university environment.
Websites for Traveling and Transportation
- The Google Maps website provides a range of features and benefits for international students, allowing you to plan your routes, find directions, and explore various transportation options.
- You can access real-time traffic updates to navigate efficiently and avoid congestion.
- The website offers detailed maps and satellite imagery for easy exploration of unfamiliar areas, making it easy to discover nearby places of interest, including restaurants, shops, and attractions.
- Google Maps provides public transit information, helping students navigate public transportation systems.
- The National Rail website allows you to plan your journey, purchase train tickets, and receive live updates.
- You can find cheap fares and special offers through the website.
- The Trainline website is the best platform to check train routes and prices for traveling within the UK.
- It offers a convenient and cost-effective way for international students to visit friends at other universities or explore more of the UK.
- The UK’s extensive train lines make train travel a cheap and accessible option.
- Traveling off-peak is recommended to save money on train fares.
- The official tourism website of England provides valuable information for international students moving to the UK.
- It offers insights and details about various cities, including your chosen university city, allowing you to learn more about the place.
- The website showcases the coolest things to see and do in England, inspiring your wanderlust and helping you plan your adventures.
- You can explore attractions, landmarks, events, and activities through the website, ensuring you make the most of your time in England.
Websites for Accommodation and Hotels
- uhomes is a dedicated student accommodation rental platform operating in major cities such as UK, USA, Canada, etc.
- They provide student accommodation options in major study destinations like London, Manchester, Nottingham, and Newcastle.
- uhomes also offers housing solutions in smaller cities such as Bath, Bangor, Salford, Bournemouth, etc.
- Expedia provides comprehensive travel solutions in major countries around the world.
- It offers a diverse selection of accommodations, including hotels, vacation rentals, and resorts.
- Expedia allows you to book accommodations in popular destinations worldwide, ensuring a convenient and hassle-free travel experience.
- Booking.com offers comprehensive travel solutions in major countries across the globe.
- It provides an extensive selection of accommodations, including hotels, apartments, hostels, and more.
- Booking.com allows you to book accommodations in popular destinations worldwide, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable travel experience.
Websites for Food and Essentials
Deliveroo
- Deliveroo provides a reliable food delivery service in major cities and countries worldwide.
- It offers a diverse selection of restaurants and cuisines to choose from, catering to different gastronomic preferences.
- Deliveroo enables users to conveniently order food online and have it delivered to their doorstep, ensuring a seamless and satisfying dining experience.
Morrisons
- Morrisons offers a reliable online grocery shopping service, catering to customers across the UK.
- It provides a diverse selection of groceries, including fresh produce, pantry staples, household items, and more.
- Morrisons’ website allows users to conveniently browse and order groceries online, with options for home delivery or click-and-collect service from their local store.
Just Eat
- Just Eat offers a reliable and user-friendly online food delivery service in multiple countries.
- It provides a diverse selection of restaurants and cuisines to choose from, catering to various tastes and preferences.
- Just Eat’s website allows users to effortlessly browse menus, place orders, and have food delivered to their location.
- Lidl stands out for its commitment to affordability, providing customers with access to quality products at competitive prices.
- It offers a diverse selection of groceries, including fresh produce, pantry staples, and household items, all at budget-friendly prices.
- Lidl’s website enables users to conveniently browse and order groceries online, with options for home delivery or in-store pickup.
Websites for Shopping
eBay
- eBay is an online retail platform offering new and second-hand goods to help you find bargains within the UK and potentially save money on essential items.
- Auctions on eBay often start from just £0.99, providing an opportunity to find affordable deals.
- You can find a variety of items, including clothing, university textbooks, and beauty products.
Student Beans
- Student Beans is a student-centric website offering a hub of information, discounts, and job opportunities.
- It provides a centralized platform for students to access various resources.
- The Student Beans digital ID card is a key feature, granting access to numerous discounts for online shopping.
FAQ
There is no definitive answer as to which supermarket is consistently the cheapest in the UK, as prices can vary depending on location, promotions, and individual product prices. However, discount supermarkets such as Aldi and Lidl are often known for offering competitive prices on groceries.
To get student discounts in the UK, you typically need to follow these steps:
- Verify your student status by obtaining a valid student ID card or enrolling in a recognized student discount program.
- Check if the retailer or service provider offers student discounts.
- Present your student ID card or provide your student discount program details when making a purchase online or in-store.
- Some retailers may require you to sign up on their website or use a specific student discount code during checkout.
- Enjoy the benefits of discounted prices or special offers available exclusively to students.
In the UK, student discounts are typically available to full-time and part-time students enrolled in recognized educational institutions, including universities, colleges, and schools. Some discount programs or retailers may have specific eligibility criteria, so it’s advisable to check their requirements or terms and conditions to determine if you qualify for a student discount.
