A freshers guide for International Students in London

Congratulations on securing your place at university! With this first — and some may say, the trickiest step of the student journey complete — it’s time to start looking forward to all the exciting stuff. And there’s nothing that gets future students more excited about starting university than Freshers Week.

Freshers week — or student orientation week — is a welcome period just before the start of an academic year at university. It's during this very week that life at university truly begins for many students. This can be especially true for international students.

Adjusting to a new country can be challenging at first, so Freshers Week is the perfect time to meet new friends, ask questions about your new city, and get settled in. Below, we've rounded up some valuable tips and tricks to help you make the most of Freshers Week as an international student.

What is Freshers Week?

You’ll usually take part in Freshers Week during your first week of university. This period is a whirlwind of excitement, and it's no wonder many graduates look back on it as one of the most thrilling times at university. From non-stop parties to niche society events, whatever your interests are, it’s safe to say that you’ll have plenty of activities to choose from. But here's a friendly reminder: don't exhaust yourself (or your wallet) by trying to do everything at once. Pace yourself so you can enjoy the experience each and every day.

Top tip: Set yourself a budget for Freshers Week. This could be daily budgeting for activities, or simply having a clear(ish) number in mind for what you can spend each day on food and drinks. Freshers Week can sometimes turn into Freshers Month, so it’s wise to spread your money out and make sure you can join in on as much fun as possible!

How to meet new people at Freshers Week

Freshers Week is a time when friendships are forged and social circles begin to bloom. As you step foot into this exciting chapter of your university journey, prepare to be surrounded by a whirlwind of new faces, interesting society circles, and unforgettable encounters.

Joining clubs and societies is a fantastic way to meet like-minded people who share your passions and interests. Whether you're into rock music, surfing, or scary films, there's bound to be a society that aligns with your hobbies and interests. During the first couple of weeks, your university will host events — usually during a ‘society fair’ — where you can sign up for clubs and societies.

Top tip: Keep an eye out on your university’s website and social channels for the ‘society fair’ dates. Going to these fairs is the best way to get an overview of the societies and clubs on offer.

Freshers Week admin

Amid the whirlwind of social activities and newfound independence, it's important to carve out a little time during Freshers Week to tackle your ‘life admin’ tasks. Taking care of essential matters like registering with a local GP, obtaining a UK SIM card for your phone, sorting out your travel card, and setting up a UK bank account can help to alleviate stress throughout the coming academic year.

Another administrative task to keep in mind during Freshers Week is backing up all your important new documents. Welcome seminars and lectures during Freshers Week will flood your mind with information about your new courses, reading lists, and university resources. While much of it can be found on the university portal, it's crucial to develop the habit of backing up your own notes and work. Save your files on Google Drive, Dropbox, or a Cloud account. That way, you'll have peace of mind knowing your hard work is safely stored and accessible whenever you need it.

Top tip: Devote 15-30 minutes of each morning to administrative tasks like those above and you'll feel prepared, equipped, and ready to fully immerse yourself in the vibrant festivities and adventures ahead!

Keeping safe at university in London

While London is a vibrant and welcoming place, it's crucial to be aware that — like any major city — there are occasional instances of crime. Be mindful of your surroundings, especially in busy areas, as there may be occasional incidents of pickpocketing. 

Top tip: Take a moment to save important emergency numbers (like 999 for emergencies and 111 for non-emergency medical assistance) in your phone contacts for quick access during unexpected events.

Student discounts during Freshers Week

As a student at a UK university, you'll be eligible for a National Union of Students (NUS) card. This magical card unlocks a world of discounts! Before you place an order — whether that’s at your local cafe or an online retail store — always remember to check if there are any offers for students available. From clothing to food, many retailers and restaurants offer up to 25% off when you flash your NUS card. It's a game changer: trust us! 

Adjusting to a new culture is a gradual process that requires patience. The good news is that there’s no rush. Take your time to discover what brings you comfort and purpose in your new environment.

We wish you all the best on your new journey here in London. Enjoy it!

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