It’s natural to feel this way when you are going to study abroad. Being a Pakistani international student in the UK can be exciting and challenging. There is nothing more thrilling than moving away for higher education! But as a foreigner, you will have several questions about living, managing costs, and healthcare. Here’s a guide to help you navigate life in the UK as a student:
What is the Visa Application Time for the UK?
Begin your application at least four months before your course starts. It will give you enough time to gather the necessary documentation. The average timeframe for visa processing is three weeks. But it can be shorter or longer depending on several reasons especially if it is busy study abroad application season.
How Will I Find Accommodation in the UK?
A vital part of moving for higher education is finding a place to live that is comfortable and affordable. Here are your options:
- Most universities have on-campus housing. It is typically a cheap option, including utilities, and makes you close to academic buildings.
- Sharing a space with other students is another way to keep your living costs at a minimum. Plus, it helps you make new friends.
- For more independence, you can rent a private apartment or house. However, this is relatively expensive than the other two options.
Healthcare is so expensive. How Will I Afford it?
As a Pakistani international student, you can ensure medical service access at NHS. National Health Service (NHS) is a publicly funded healthcare system in the UK. As part of your visa application, you will pay the Immigration Health Surge (IHS), which grants you access to the NHS.
How Will I Manage Living Costs?
Living costs in the UK for international students is a high expense. For monthly stability, plan your budget for food, transportation, and other daily activities. Eating out less and preparing meals saves students a significant amount. International students are also allowed to work part-time for up to 20 hours/week to help maintain living expenses.
Does All the Above Sound Hard?
You can focus on your dream of studying abroad and we can handle the rest. At HR Consultants, we specialize in helping Pakistani students like you thrive in the UK. We offer tailored guidance and support to make your study abroad experience successful. From the visa application to getting a scholarship to comfortable accommodation, we’re here to help you make the best choices. This way, you don’t focus on surviving!
