Before you leave home: Checklist
Before you leave home you need to:
- obtain the necessary permission to enter the UK (including ATAS if applicable);
- check with your home bank about opening an account in the UK, transferring money and obtaining sterling cash/sterling travellers cheques;
- if you will be living in halls, complete and return the accommodation licence, together with £200 deposit;
- book the airport pick-up service; and
- notify your landlord/lady or hall manager of when you will be arriving.
The following items should go in your hand luggage:
- passport or national identity card
- entry clearance (student visa) – this is compulsory for all visa and non-visa nationals who intend to study in the UK for more than six months. Even if you are a non-visa national who intends to study for less than six months, we still recommend getting entry clearance (see www.ukvisas.gov.uk and www.ukcisa.org.uk for further information)
- letter of acceptance from the University
- evidence that you will be able to support yourself financially throughout your course
- cash and/or travellers' cheques for immediate needs on arrival
- credit cards
- details of the airport pick-up service if you are using it
- your accommodation address
- a jacket or jumper (it may be cold or raining when you arrive)
- certificates of health, vaccinations or x-ray reports if you need them
- documents to show insurance if applicable
Please remember to keep all important documentation with you in your hand luggage when you travel.