If you’ve ever fantasised about studying in the United Kingdom and envision yourself sipping afternoon tea, taking a ridiculous number of selfies in front of iconic landmarks, and spending your free time drinking a pint or two in quintessential British pubs, then here are eight things you should know before booking that flight!
The Requirements for Obtaining a Student Visa Have Changed
The visa procedure has been streamlined in order to make the UK a top destination for overseas students. Furthermore, the Post-Study Visa allows you to Stay in the UK for up to two years after completing your studies in order to find your ideal career and develop your British accent.
You Will Be Able to Get Free Medical Treatment
If you didn’t know, the United Kingdom boasts some of the greatest public healthcare in the world, and you’ll be able to utilise it for free if you migrate here for your studies.
After paying a nominal cost as part of your visa application, you can consult a doctor, be treated in hospital for a new or existing medical concern, and receive free emergency care. You will also be able to purchase medicine that has been prescribed by a doctor or a hospital at a reduced price.
You Get First Option on University Housing
For many British students, living on campus is a rite of passage, and the parties are legendary, so don’t miss out on a spot in ‘Student Halls.’ They are the cheapest kind of student housing, as well as being entertaining and, if you’re lucky, include meals!
The Cost of Student Travel Is Covered
Subsidized travel is one of the benefits of being a student in the United Kingdom. You will be able to apply for a student travel card, which will enable you to a 30% discount on bus, rail, and tram travel in your region, regardless of where you choose to study.
There’s also a 30 percent discount on national train fares if you apply for a 16-25 railcard, so there’s no excuse not to travel around the UK and learn about different cultures. However, be aware that the accent changes every 75 miles in the UK, so even though we all speak English, it might not be the version you can understand.
You May Work and Learn at The Same Time
You will be authorised to work up to 20 hours per week during term time and an unlimited number of hours outside of term time if you have a student visa. You can also Apply for a Post-Study Visa, which allows you to work at any level and in any profession in the nation for up to two years after you graduate.
The Cost of Living Might Be Very Different Depending on Where You Live
Choose your city wisely because the cost of living might vary greatly. On average, places in the south are more costly than those in the north, so obtain a map, a calculator, and familiarise yourself with Google to find out where in the UK is best for your pocketbook.
Expect Your Professors to Not Tell You What to Do
One of the unique features of British education is that it encourages students to study independently. While you will attend lectures and seminars, you will be free to go through the material at your own pace and initiative.
There Are Four Countries That Make Up the United Kingdom
A word of advise Never confuse a Scot with an Englishman, and never confuse a Northerner with a Southerner. Although the United Kingdom appears to be one big happy family, it is actually made up of four separate countries, each having its own opinion on who is the finest.