You have done the hard part and successfully applied to and been offered a place on a UK university course. Your first year at university will see you experience many exciting and awkward new experiences, and life at a UK university begins properly for many students during freshers week.

Transitioning from a new country can be hard, but you will soon feel at ease with your new surroundings, meeting like-minded people worldwide. Follow some of our top tips about making the most of your Freshers Week, and if you are thinking about studying in the UK, arrange a free consultation with SI-UK London today.

 

7 Tips for International Students in Freshers Week 2024

1. Attend freshers’ events

Many graduates remember freshers week as one of the most exciting times of their lives. Activities and events will swamp you to participate, and it will be tempting to attend them all – pace yourself, though, as you could easily spend a lot of energy (and money!) very quickly.

2. Join clubs and societies

An easy way to meet like-minded people who share your interests is by joining one of the hundreds of clubs and societies each university has. So whether you are interested in punk music, cycling or films, joining a society is an easy way to share your passion with others.

3. Take advantage of your student discount

You will be eligible for a National Union of Students (NUS) card when studying at a UK university. Many retailers and restaurants offer up to 25% off clothes and food when you use them, so don’t forget to ask before you order if there are any valid offers to take advantage of!

4. Register with the university doctor

Being ill and away from home is tough, and having to visit your GP for the first time without being registered can make the experience worse. All universities offer free healthcare for students, so take ten minutes of your day during freshers week to register with the university health centre.

5. Call home if you’re feeling homesick

Don’t try to get rid of your parents as soon as possible if they have just helped you move in – you will be surprised how quickly you will miss them. Homesickness affects every student, so if you’re feeling lonely and miss the voice of a loved one, pick up the phone or log in to Skype and don’t suppress your feelings!

6. Back up your work

During freshers’ week, you will be invited to attend welcome seminars and lectures for your new course, and you will soon be overloaded with information about the university, your course and reading lists. Much of this can be found on the university portal, but it is also important for you to get into the habit of backing up your notes and working on a Google Drive, Dropbox, or Cloud account.

7. Buy your books second hand

A common mistake for students is to buy the books they are required to read brand new from reading lists. University libraries are often well stocked but also in demand, so you must own your copy for key texts. You can save lots of money by buying second-hand from various sources.

Studying in the UK

If you wish to join the thousands of other international students studying at a UK university, arrange a free consultation with SI-UK today. We can help you achieve your dreams of studying at a UK university.

Contact SI-UK about studying in the UK