Starting University? A Practical Guide to Relocating as a Student
Starting university and embarking on a journey to study in a new city or country is both exciting and daunting. As a student, you’re not just changing your environment – you’re opening doors to new experiences, cultures, and personal growth. If you’re about to move for university, this guide will help smooth your transition, whether you’re moving within the UK or venturing abroad.
Preparation Before the Move
Research your destination
Wherever you are travelling to start university, it’s good to find out more about your destination, before packing your bags. It can help to understand the layout of your new city, different neighbourhoods, and how your university fits into the landscape because this will help you navigate when you get there and feel settled quickly. This is especially important if you’re moving abroad.
Paperwork and documentation
If you are relocating from the UK or to the UK for university, various paperwork and documentation will need to be completed well in advance of your travel. Your passport will need to remain valid for at least six months after your intended return date from studying, and an approved student visa will need to be secured to ensure you can enter your chosen country and start your studies on time.
Finding accommodation
Securing suitable accommodation is another important aspect of your move. Weigh the pros and cons of university housing versus private rentals or shared housing. Despite ambitions for professional success and the accompanying allure of prime property in sought-after locations, like the prestigious areas of Bloomsbury in London or Hale Barns in Manchester, students need to prioritise more practical aspects while studying towards their long term aims.
Seek out accommodation that balances affordability, comfort, and proximity to your university, but also features modern amenities such as high-speed internet, well-designed communal spaces, and safety features. If you are heading to Manchester, there are a wide choice of neighbourhoods to suit all and good transport links for students.
Popular student locations include the number one hub of Fallowfield, offering a lively social scene just two miles from the city centre, Rusholme with its famous Curry Mile, host to an amazing variety of Indian cuisine, and the adjacent Victoria Park which benefits from a very quiet and study friendly environment.
Packing up your belongings
Packing for your move to university requires careful consideration. Start with a checklist of essentials: clothing suitable for the local climate, bedding, toiletries, and important documents. Don’t forget items that hold sentimental value – a few familiar objects can help combat the homesickness that’s inevitable when you’re starting university for the first time.
However, be mindful of luggage restrictions if you’re flying, and remember that many household items can be purchased after arrival. It’s worth exploring storage options which can be useful for storing seasonal items or keeping belongings safe until you’ve found the perfect accommodation.
Get your finances in order
Cities tend to be expensive, and students can expect fairly high living expenses when relocating and starting universiyt – not just for the move, but for utilities, rent, transportation and more. So, it’s important to budget carefully and make sure you’re aware of all potential expenses so you’re not stressed about money throughout your studies. Depending on your circumstances, you may want to look at part-time work to fund your studies, but whether you work or not, be sure to take advantage of student discounts by registering with platforms like UniDays to save money.
Settling in
Once you’ve moved in, the adventure really begins, settling into your new environment and establishing daily routines.
First week essentials
Your first week in a new place sets the tone for your entire stay. Begin by setting up essential utilities if they’re not included in your accommodation – this typically involves electricity, gas, water, and internet services. It’s also worth taking advantage of university orientation programmes and campus tours to not only familiarise yourself with your new academic environment but also provide opportunities to meet fellow students and staff.
Getting around
Understanding local transportation options is essential for your day to day life. If you don’t drive, you’ll need to research the public transport systems in place, including buses, trains, or trams and metro stations. Many cities offer student discounts on transportation passes, which can lead to significant savings. There is a free Bee Network bus service in Manchester city centre which connects all main public transport destinations. Purchased train tickets covering Greater Manchester and the city centre can also be used on the Metrolink city zone trams at no extra cost. However, if cycling is popular in your new city, you might consider purchasing a bicycle – it’s often a more economical and healthy way to get around.
Healthcare
Prioritise your health by understanding the local healthcare system. Whether you’re moving and starting university a few counties away from home, or leaving the UK to become an international or exchange student, be sure to register with a local GP practice as soon as possible. Familiarise yourself with your university’s health services – many offer free or low-cost medical care, counselling, and wellness programmes that you can, and should, take advantage of. If you have any ongoing medical conditions, ensure you have an adequate supply of any necessary medications and prescriptions, since it might take a while for you to get set up on the new system.
Navigating your new academic location
Learning the academic system
Adapting to a new academic system can be challenging, but it’s also a great opportunity to really dive into the experience of being at university. Most universities offer study resources and support services, so be sure to make use of these early on and get into the routine of studying so you don’t fall behind on your classes which will only add stress to your life.
Building relationships with professors and classmates is also crucial. Attend timetabled lectures, participate in class discussions, and consider joining study groups. These connections will enrich your academic experience and potentially lead to valuable networking opportunities.
Making friends when starting university
Making friends and building a support network around you is an important aspect of relocating as a student. It can be a lonely experience to leave your friends and family behind, so finding new friends can help you feel settled sooner. Joining student societies and clubs is an excellent way to meet like-minded individuals and pursue your interests. Many universities host student ‘freshers’ fairs, at the beginning of the academic year – attend these to explore your options.
For international students, language exchange programmes offer a chance to improve your language skills while helping others learn your native language. But also make an effort to explore local events and attractions, such as attending local festivals, visiting museums, or trying out local restaurants. These experiences will deepen your understanding of your new home and create lasting memories.
Explore the local attractions
If Manchester is your new home, you can look forward to the vibrant culture of the Oxford Road Corridor, home to the Whitworth Art Gallery, the Manchester Academy with four concert venues, and HOME, an independent cinema, theatre and art gallery. An equally creative scene can be enjoyed at the Northern Quarter, just 20 minutes walk from both the University of Manchester and Manchester Metropolitan University. This is jam packed with cafes, vintage shops and music venues such as the Night and Day Café, which has played an important part in the Manchester music scene.
Starting university in a new location is likely to be one of the most memorable and rewarding periods of your life, so embrace the adventure, build a new community, and enjoy the unique perspective that comes from immersing yourself in a different environment.
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