Student life in the UK: what to expect

How teaching and assessment work

• Expect lectures, seminars, labs and one-to-one supervision, with a large amount of reading and study in your own time.
• Assessment often includes essays, reports, projects and presentations as well as exams.
• You are expected to question ideas and form your own arguments, not only reproduce what was taught.

Part-time work

UKCISA explains that degree-level students at a licensed higher education provider can usually work up to 20 hours a week in term time and full time outside term time. Self-employment, professional sport, work as an entertainer and permanent full-time jobs are not allowed. Your own conditions are on your visa, so check them, and read our overview of the UK Student visa.

Healthcare

When you pay the Immigration Health Surcharge as part of your visa application, you can use the NHS during your visa. The NHS explains that anyone in England can register with a GP surgery, and it is free to register. Register soon after you arrive so you can get care when you need it.

• In an emergency, call 999.
• For urgent medical help that is not an emergency, contact NHS 111.
• Your university's student support or wellbeing service can also help you find the right care.

Managing money

• Plan a separate budget for your first month: opening a bank account and receiving money from home can take time.
• Track weekly spending on food, travel and phone costs, which add up quickly.
• Do not rely on part-time work to pay rent or tuition.

Use the UK Study Cost Planner to build a realistic monthly budget.

Support, wellbeing and belonging

• International student teams help with enrolment, visas and settling in.
• Study skills services help with academic writing, referencing and exams.
• Wellbeing and counselling services are available if you are struggling.
• Student unions and societies, including cultural and subject societies, are a good way to meet people.

Careers and life after study

University careers services help with CVs, applications and work experience. The Graduate visa lets eligible graduates stay and work after their course; its length depends on when you apply. Read what the Graduate visa change to 18 months means.