International Students UK: Your Practical Guide to Living and Studying Here

When you’re an international student in the UK, a person from outside the UK studying at a British university, often on a student visa and eligible for NHS healthcare. Also known as overseas student, it’s not just about lectures and exams—it’s about figuring out how to pay rent, see a doctor, and still have money left for coffee. You’re not alone. Thousands of you arrive every year, and most of the stress comes from the same few things: where to live, how to get healthcare, and how to stretch your budget.

That’s why you’ll find real, no-nonsense advice here. You won’t see generic tips like "save money by making your own tea." You’ll find exactly how to register with a GP, the process for international students to access free NHS medical care in the UK, what documents you actually need, and how to avoid being turned away. You’ll learn how student utility bills, the combined cost of gas, electricity, and water for students living in shared housing work—because many are charged for water they didn’t use, thanks to outdated flat-rate systems. And you’ll see how UK student housing, the range of accommodation options from university halls to private rentals, often shared with other students can be a minefield if you don’t know your tenancy rights or how to spot a landlord who’s cutting corners.

It’s not all about survival, either. You’ll find guides on how to get a cheap phone plan that actually works, how to find free or low-cost mental health support, and how to avoid being overcharged for dental care. There are tips on how to handle pests in your flat, how to set up direct debits so you don’t get fined, and how to find free cultural events on campus that help you feel less alone. This isn’t a list of things you "should" do. It’s what works for students who’ve been through it.

Every article here was written by someone who’s been there—or is still there. No corporate fluff. No recycled advice from blogs that don’t even know the difference between a student visa and a tourist visa. Just clear steps, real costs, and honest talk about what to expect. Whether you’re arriving next month or already halfway through your degree, you’ll find something that makes your life easier.