15 Things Every Desi Student Must Do After Landing in the UK
Moving to the UK for studies is exciting, but the first few days can also be confusing—especially for students coming from Pakistan or India. From collecting your BRP to opening a bank account, there are several important steps you must complete soon after arriving.
This guide will help you understand the 15 most important things every Desi student should do after landing in the UK, so you can settle quickly and start enjoying student life.
1. Collect Your BRP (Biometric Residence Permit)
One of the first things you must do after arriving is collect your BRP card.
Your BRP is your official residence document that proves your immigration status in the UK.
Usually you must collect it within 10 days of arrival from a designated post office or your university.
You will need it for:
- Opening a bank account
- Renting accommodation
- Working part-time
- Registering with a GP
Always keep your BRP safe as replacing it can be expensive.
2. Move Into Your Accommodation
Before arriving in the UK, you should already have temporary or permanent accommodation arranged.
Common accommodation options include:
- University halls
- Private student halls
- Shared houses
- Spare rooms in family homes
Many Desi students prefer shared accommodation with other Pakistani or Indian students because it is cheaper and culturally comfortable.
Make sure you check:
- Rent agreement
- Deposit amount
- Included bills
- Distance to university
3. Register With Your University
After arriving, you must complete your university registration.
Most universities require:
- Passport
- Visa
- BRP card
- Offer letter
This process activates your student ID card, which you will use for:
- Library access
- Campus facilities
- Student discounts
4. Open a UK Bank Account
Opening a UK bank account is extremely important for managing your finances.
Many students choose banks like:
- HSBC
- Barclays
- Lloyds
- Santander
To open a student account you usually need:
- Passport
- BRP
- University letter confirming your student status
- Proof of address
A UK bank account will make it easier to:
- Receive money from family
- Pay rent
- Pay bills
- Receive part-time job payments
5. Get a UK SIM Card
You will need a UK SIM card immediately after landing so you can communicate easily.
Popular student networks include:
- EE
- Vodafone
- O2
- Three
- Lycamobile (popular among international students)
Many networks offer cheap student plans with unlimited calls and data.
You can easily buy a SIM card from:
- Airports
- Supermarkets
- Mobile shops
- Online stores
6. Register With a GP (Doctor)
Healthcare in the UK works differently compared to Pakistan and India.
Students must register with a local GP (General Practitioner) for medical care.
Once registered, you can:
- Book doctor appointments
- Receive prescriptions
- Access health services
Because you paid the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) with your visa, most healthcare services are covered.
7. Buy Bedding and Essentials
Many students arrive without household items because luggage space is limited.
You will need to buy essentials like:
- Bedding and duvet
- Pillows
- Towels
- Kitchen utensils
- Plates and cups
- Cleaning supplies
Affordable stores include:
- IKEA
- Primark
- Tesco
- Asda
- B&M
Buying these items during your first few days will make your accommodation comfortable.
8. Get a Student Oyster or Travel Card
Transportation costs can add up quickly in the UK.
Students should apply for discounted travel cards where available.
Depending on the city, you may use:
- Student bus passes
- Railcards
- City transport cards
A 16–25 Railcard can give you one-third off train travel across the UK.
9. Explore Your Local Area
Spend some time exploring your neighbourhood.
Look for nearby:
- Grocery stores
- Halal food shops
- Mosques or temples
- Bus stops
- Libraries
- Restaurants
Knowing your surroundings will make daily life much easier.
Many Desi students also search for Asian grocery stores where they can find spices and familiar foods.
10. Find Halal and Desi Food
One concern many students have is finding familiar food.
Fortunately, most UK cities have strong South Asian communities.
You can easily find:
- Pakistani restaurants
- Indian restaurants
- Halal butchers
- Asian supermarkets
Cities like Manchester, Birmingham, and London are especially famous for authentic Desi food.
11. Set Up Your Student Budget
Living in the UK requires careful budgeting.
Typical monthly expenses include:
- Rent
- Food
- Transport
- Mobile phone
- Entertainment
Most students spend between £700 – £1200 per month depending on the city.
Creating a monthly budget will help you manage your finances and avoid unnecessary stress.
12. Look for Part-Time Jobs
International students in the UK are allowed to work 20 hours per week during term time.
Common student jobs include:
- Retail assistant
- Restaurant worker
- Delivery driver
- University campus jobs
Websites where you can search for jobs include:
- Indeed
- StudentJob
Many students also find jobs through friends and local communities.
13. Join Student Communities
One of the best ways to settle in quickly is by joining student societies and cultural communities.
Most universities have:
- Pakistani societies
- Indian societies
- Islamic societies
- Cultural student groups
These groups help students:
- Make friends
- Celebrate cultural festivals
- Build support networks
14. Learn Basic UK Systems
Life in the UK works differently compared to South Asia.
Students should learn how systems work such as:
- Recycling rules
- Council tax rules
- Public transport
- Healthcare system
- Work regulations
Understanding these systems early will prevent many problems later.
15. Build a Support Network
Moving abroad can feel lonely at times, so building a support network is important.
Try to connect with:
- Other international students
- Seniors from your university
- Local communities
- Cultural societies
Having people who understand your journey will make your experience much smoother.
Final Thoughts
Moving to the UK is a life-changing experience, but the first few weeks can be overwhelming if you don’t know what to do.
By completing these 15 important steps after landing, you can settle quickly and focus on your studies and new life in the UK.
Need Help Settling in Manchester?
If you are moving to Manchester and need help with:
- Airport pickup
- Student accommodation
- SIM cards and essentials
- Settling services
Our team at Desi Student Rooms can assist you.
We help new Pakistani and Indian students find accommodation, settle comfortably, and start their UK journey smoothly.
👉 Visit desistudentrooms.co.uk to learn more about our services.