Advice for new international students

By Lyea Rivers, August 2024

As an international student myself, I researched a lot before coming to Lancaster University. I needed to plan my travel which included researching airlines, airports, train tickets, bus tickets, etc. I had to research banks to be able to open a new bank account, budget my money and plan for the cost of living.

I needed to research accommodation options, plan what I would bring with me, where to find my timetable, events in the welcome week and who to contact with questions. I also needed to research healthcare providers in Lancaster.

I had to research requirements to work part-time including applying for National Insurance. The university and my department also shared information and resources with me and other students that were extremely helpful. In this blog, I will share some resources that helped me that I hope will be helpful for you as well!

Travelling to Lancaster University

I used the travel guidance from the university to get to Lancaster's campus. I have travelled through the London and Manchester airports, by train and by coach to get to the university. Lancaster is very connected and accessible.

I use trainline, stagecoach and google maps to plan my travel and these are extremely useful to get to Lancaster University and around the UK.

Welcome week

The Welcome week and welcome webpages provide more information on welcome week events and arrivals. Your department will also share more information with you. I found welcome week very informative and helpful to settle in to university life and my course.

Budgeting

You can apply online for a few banks in Lancaster. The banks will need your 4-digit UCAS code, proof of identity and proof of address when you apply. In your student record in the student portal, you can print your registration document to provide to the bank for your proof of address. I would recommend advising your local banks that you are travelling and attending university so you can use your local bank cards until you set up your UK bank account.

See estimates for cost of living in Lancaster that is helpful to use when budgeting for your expenses. Lancaster University student Naomi's vlog on expenses is also useful.

Accommodation

Applying for accommodation

I applied for accommodation through the university as a first-year student and in my second year, I applied for accommodation off-campus. I arrived a few days earlier than my move-in date and stayed in the guest rooms for a few days. See the webpages for guest rooms, on-campus accommodation, and off-campus accommodation.

What to bring

Depending on which airline you travel on and whether you are flying solo or with family, you will have limited space and will have to plan what you pack to bring to university. This includes items for the kitchen, bedroom, studying, and other personal items. I personally shopped in Lancaster for most things in the kitchen, bedroom, and for stationary due to traveling solo and having limited space.

Healthcare registration

There is a medical practice and pharmacy on campus. I registered for Lancaster Medical Practice online.

Working part-time as an international student

If you are considering working part-time as I did, this webpage explains how to apply for a national insurance number. Also take a look at student jobs at Lancaster University. I have applied for many student jobs that allowed me to learn and develop in my career and are flexible around my studies. The Careers Services on campus can also help you with applying for jobs.

Student life

Making friends at university

I have written another blog about making friends at university. There are many societies to join that you can learn more about during the Freshers’ Fair during Welcome Week. The campus is filled with international students so you are very likely to meet someone from your home country here!

Stores on campus

Lancaster University campus has a few grocery/convenience stores, restaurants, a gym, a pharmacy, and a medical practice. There are also food delivery companies, and you can download the apps to deliver food when you first arrive.

Culture

Being from a British Overseas Territory, I think I did not experience much of a culture shock, but this website offers some insight into culture in the UK.

Finally...

I hope that this blog was helpful and provided tips to help with planning your journey to Lancaster University!