INDIA → MANCHESTER · PRIYA’S STORY
Student life
in the UK
The big move is just the beginning.
Here’s how the little things start falling
into place.
do I begin?
Manchester, my new
chapter.
THE FIRST NIGHT
Two suitcases.
So many questions.
Meet Priya
India → Manchester · Since 2025
Priya is a CanApprove client who moved from India to Manchester in 2025 to pursue her BAEcon in
Data Science and Economics. Her story shares a glimpse into her study abroad journey and the experiences, challenges and lessons that many international students encounter while settling into life in the UK.
When I moved from India to Manchester to pursue my BAEcon in Data Science and Economics, I thought the hardest part would be keeping up with my coursework. Turns out, there was a lot more to figure out!
I still remember my first night in my room. Two suitcases were sitting on the floor, my phone was buzzing with messages asking, “Reached safely?”, and I was looking around thinking, Okay, so… what do I do now?
If you’re planning to study in the UK, you might have the same questions. So, let me share what I learned about student life, accommodation, part-time work and everyday life abroad. These experiences also reflect some of the common challenges international students face when settling into a new country.
SETTLING IN
From feeling new
to finding my people.
What Is Student Life in the UK Like for International Students?
My first few weeks in Manchester felt like being part of a movie where everyone knew their lines except me!
University life was exciting, but almost everything felt new. Lectures were different from what I was used to in India. People came from different countries, spoke in different accents and had their own ways of doing things. Even making small talk at a shop sometimes felt like a challenge.
At first, I mostly stuck to myself. I wanted to make friends, but walking up to a stranger and starting a conversation? Easier said than done.
Things started changing when I joined a couple of university societies. I met students from different backgrounds, discovered new interests and slowly built my own little circle of friends.
Of course, not every day was exciting. Some days, I missed home-cooked food. Other days, the weather made me question why I had left India in the first place!
But I gradually learned that adjusting to a new country doesn’t happen overnight.
01.01 · WHAT HELPED ME
What Helped Me Settle In?
A society, a simple meal, a new route — small steps helped me settle
in.
- Saying yes to university events, even when I felt shy.
- Learning to cook a few simple meals instead of relying on takeaways.
- Exploring Manchester using public transport.
- Getting comfortable asking questions when I didn’t understand something.
- Giving myself permission to have difficult days without feeling that I was doing
something wrong.
My advice: Don’t put pressure on yourself to have the perfect student experience from day one. Make friends at your own pace, explore your city and remember that feeling homesick doesn’t mean you’ve made the wrong decision.
FINDING A HOME
A room becomes
your little corner of the world.
How Do You Find Student Accommodation in the UK?
During my first year in Manchester, I stayed in university accommodation, which gave me the chance to meet other students and get used to living in a new country. Having people around who were going through similar experiences made settling in a little easier.
After a year, though, I started looking for a private place because I wanted more personal space and privacy. It was simply my personal preference, not because university accommodation was a bad experience.
My advice? You don’t have to move into private accommodation just because someone else does. If you’re comfortable in your university residence, enjoy living with other students and feel that it suits your budget and lifestyle, there’s absolutely nothing wrong with staying there. If you eventually want more privacy or independence, you can explore private rentals when the time feels right.
There’s no single right way to experience student life in the UK. Choose what makes you feel comfortable and works best for you.
02.01 · A PRACTICAL NEXT STEP
Is Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) Worth It in Your First Year?
Compare the place, the people and the total cost.
When you’re new to the UK, your room is more than just a place to sleep. It’s
where you’ll cook, study, relax and probably call home when you’re missing
everyone back in India.
There are three common options to consider:
- University halls: A convenient option for meeting other students and living close to
campus, depending on availability. - Purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA): Student-focused housing that may offer
furnished rooms, shared social spaces, organised events and additional facilities. - Shared private rentals: An option to explore if you prefer sharing a house or flat
with other students and want to compare different budgets and locations.
For your first year, PBSA or university halls may make settling in easier because
you’re surrounded by other students who are also adjusting to university life.
If your budget allows, an en-suite bathroom might be worth considering. Sharing a kitchen is one thing; sharing a bathroom with people you’ve just met is a whole different
adventure!
That said, always compare the total cost, location, contract length and facilities before making a decision.
02.02 · A PRACTICAL NEXT STEP
What Documents Do You Need to Rent Accommodation in the UK?
Ask what is needed before you commit.
When renting privately, you may be asked for documents such as:
- Proof of identity and student status.
- Evidence of funds or income, where required.
- References, depending on the landlord or letting agent.
- A guarantor, if required under the rental arrangement.
- Money for the deposit and initial rent payments.
Requirements vary depending on the property, landlord and your circumstances, so check
what’s needed before committing.
02.03 · A PRACTICAL NEXT STEP
What Should You Check Before Signing a Tenancy Agreement?
A lovely room is only part of the picture.
Here’s my little checklist for anyone searching for a room:
- Location: How far is it from your university, supermarket and nearest bus or tram stop?
- Bills: Are electricity, heating, water and Wi-Fi included in the rent?
- Contract: How long will you be renting, and what happens if your plans change?
- Total expenses: Have you calculated rent, transport, groceries, utilities and other regular costs?
- Tenancy terms: Have you read the agreement and understood the deposit, payment dates and responsibilities?
One more thing: Don’t rush into paying money just because a room looks attractive online. Check the property, verify the landlord or agent and understand the terms first.
TAKE THIS WITH YOU
Before you say
“this is the one”.
A little checklist for your room search.
WORK & STUDY
A little independence.
A balance to learn.
Can International Students Work Part-Time in the UK?
One of my biggest questions before moving was whether I could earn some money while studying.
Like many international students, I wanted to manage my expenses better, gain work experience and become more independent. But before looking for jobs, I had to understand the work conditions attached to my visa.
03.01 · A PRACTICAL NEXT STEP
How Many Hours Can International Students Work in the UK?
Your visa. Your course. Your permitted hours.
The permitted hours depend on your course, visa conditions and whether you’re in
term time or an official vacation.
Many eligible Student visa holders studying full-time at degree level can work up to 20
hours per week during term time. Some students on eligible below-degree-level courses
have a 10-hour limit, while others may have different restrictions.
Always check your own visa conditions before accepting a job. Don’t rely on another
student’s work limit, even if you’re studying at the same university.
Also, remember that certain types of work, including self-employment and professional
sports, are restricted under the Student visa route. Check the current rules before
taking on any work.
03.02 · A PRACTICAL NEXT STEP
What Are the Best Part-Time Jobs for International Students?
Experience can grow from everyday opportunities.
Depending on your skills, location and visa conditions, you could explore opportunities
in:
- Cafés, restaurants and hospitality.
- Retail and customer service.
- University departments and student services.
- Administrative support.
- Other eligible part-time roles related to your interests or experience.
A friend of mine, Rohan, worked at a café during his degree. He initially wanted to earn some extra money, but the job taught him how to communicate confidently with customers, manage his time and work with different people.
Later, when he applied for a summer internship, he had practical examples to discuss
during interviews.
But I’ve also seen how easily work can become overwhelming.
My friend Fathima once took on too many shifts during a busy semester. When assignment deadlines and exams arrived, she struggled to keep up. She eventually realised that earning extra money wasn’t worth compromising her studies.
Her experience taught me something important: working part-time can be valuable, but only when you can manage it alongside your course.
03.03 · A PRACTICAL NEXT STEP
How Can You Balance a Part-Time Job With Your Studies?
Plan lectures and deadlines before adding shifts.
Before accepting additional shifts, take a moment to check:
- Your lecture timetable and assignment deadlines.
- Upcoming examinations and project submissions.
- Travel time between work, university and home.
- Your visa’s work restrictions.
- Whether you’ll still have time to rest, cook and enjoy university life.
My rule of thumb? Build your study routine first and fit work around it, not the other way around.
Check the rules that apply to you: Official Student visa guidance ↗
LOOKING AFTER YOURSELF
Knowing where to turn
makes a difference.
How Do International Students Access Healthcare in the UK?
Healthcare wasn’t something I spent much time thinking about before moving. I was busy planning my course, packing my bags and imagining my new life.
But I soon realised that knowing how to get medical help is part of being prepared to live independently.
04.01 · A PRACTICAL NEXT STEP
Should You Register With a GP as Soon as You Arrive?
A small task to look into soon after settling in.
If you’re eligible, I’d recommend looking into GP registration soon after settling in.
A GP, or general practitioner, is usually your first point of contact for non-emergency health concerns. You can search for a nearby practice and check its registration process rather than waiting until you need an appointment.
I learned that the NHS App may also help eligible users manage certain appointments and
access health information, depending on their circumstances and the services available.
It’s one of those small tasks that’s easy to postpone when you’re busy unpacking, attending orientation and exploring your new city. But getting familiar with the process early can save you unnecessary stress later.
04.02 · A PRACTICAL NEXT STEP
Is It Easy to Find an NHS Dentist as an International Student?
GP registration and dental care are separate.
Honestly, finding dental care may require a little more planning.
A friend of mine, Karan, assumed that registering with a GP would automatically take care of his healthcare needs. When he started looking for a dentist, he discovered that NHS dental services work separately and that some practices aren’t accepting new NHS patients.
His experience was a useful reminder to check your options early.
Search for NHS dental practices near your accommodation, ask whether they’re
accepting new NHS patients and confirm the charges before booking. Availability can vary by location.
04.03 · A PRACTICAL NEXT STEP
What Does the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) Cover?
Check which services may cost extra.
The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) is a fee that many international students must pay as part of their UK visa application, depending on their circumstances.
Paying the IHS generally gives eligible visa holders access to NHS healthcare on a
broadly similar basis to people who are ordinarily resident in the UK, subject to the
applicable rules. However, it doesn’t mean every healthcare service is free.
For example, prescriptions in England, NHS dental treatment and eye care may involve
additional charges, depending on the service and your eligibility for exemptions.
Before moving, check the current IHS requirements and understand which services may cost extra. It’s also worth checking whether any private health insurance or additional
cover you need is separate from the IHS.
My takeaway? You don’t need to learn the entire healthcare system
before boarding your flight, but knowing where to find reliable information can make settling in much easier.
Find current information: NHS ↗ · Official IHS guidance ↗
GETTING AROUND
The city feels smaller
when you know your way.
What’s The Best Way to Get Around the UK as a Student?
When I first arrived in Manchester, figuring out public transport was one of those little things I had to learn as I went. Between getting to university, grocery shopping and meeting friends, I quickly realised how useful it was to understand the local bus, tram and train services.
My advice? Don’t wait until you’re running late for a lecture to figure out
which bus to take!
05.01 · A PRACTICAL NEXT STEP
How Can Students Save Money on Public Transport?
Check fares, passes and discount eligibility.
I started paying more attention to travel costs once I realised how often I’d be travelling. If you’re planning to use public transport regularly, compare individual fares with weekly or monthly passes to see which works out cheaper.
Here are a few things worth knowing:
- Check student discounts: Depending on your age and eligibility, a Railcard or local student travel pass could help you save money.
- Book train tickets ahead: If your travel plans are fixed, advance tickets can sometimes be cheaper. Compare prices and departure times before booking.
- Check peak and off-peak fares: Some journeys cost less outside peak periods, depending on the route and ticket type.
- Choose the right payment method: Contactless payment is convenient on supported services, but check the local ticketing rules before travelling. Some journeys require a specific ticket or a different way to pay.
05.02 · A PRACTICAL NEXT STEP
Which Apps Are Useful for Getting Around the UK?
Find a route, check the time, leave a little earlier.
I found that having a few reliable travel apps on my phone made planning journeys much
less stressful.
- Google Maps: Useful for finding routes, checking journey times and comparing public
transport options. - Citymapper: Helpful for planning journeys in supported cities, including Manchester and London.
- Trainline: Lets you search for train journeys and compare ticket options.
- Official local transport apps: Useful for checking service updates, ticket
information and route changes.
You don’t need every app available. Start with one for everyday navigation and another for train journeys, and see what works best for you.
05.03 · A PRACTICAL NEXT STEP
What Transport Mistakes Should International Students Avoid?
The right ticket makes for a calmer journey.
A few small mistakes can make travelling more expensive or stressful than it needs to be.
- Forgetting to tap in or out: On services that require contactless check-in and
check-out, missing a tap can lead to an incorrect or maximum fare. - Buying the wrong ticket: Always check that your ticket covers the route, travel time and service you’re using.
- Assuming every discount applies: Check the eligibility conditions and carry any required proof of entitlement.
- Leaving your return journey until the last minute: Some evening and night services run less frequently, so check the timetable before heading out.
- Ignoring ticket conditions: Travelling without a valid ticket can result in a penalty fare or other enforcement action, depending on the service and circumstances.
My biggest tip: Plan your journey, check your ticket and leave a little extra time when travelling somewhere new. Once you get used to the system, getting around becomes much easier—and you’ll feel more confident exploring beyond your university and accommodation.
LOOKING BACK, MOVING FORWARD
Not perfect.
But becoming my own story.
Is Studying in the UK Worth It for International Students?
For me, studying in the UK has been about more than earning a Bachelor’s degree in Data Science and Economics. It’s also been an opportunity to become more independent, meet people from different cultures and discover what I’m capable of doing on my own.
Of course, the experience isn’t always easy. Accommodation costs, academic pressure, homesickness and managing everyday responsibilities can take time to get used to.
But you don’t need to have everything figured out before you arrive. You need to prepare as well as you can, stay open to new experiences and give yourself time to find your feet.
If you’re planning to study in the UK, start by researching your university, understanding your student visa requirements and building a realistic budget. The more prepared you are, the easier it may be to focus on what matters most: your education and the experience of living somewhere new.
And remember, your first few weeks don’t have to be perfect to become the beginning of something wonderful.