student travel uk

Covid-19: Information for international students

Here in the uk, a warm welcome is waiting for you..

UK universities have adapted to the Covid-19 pandemic, ensuring student safety remains top priority while continuing to deliver the world-class teaching the UK is known for. Each UK university has dedicated staff to support international students at every step of their journey: from application, to preparing for travel, to supporting you on arrival and throughout your time at university.

We want you to feel welcome and at ease when you arrive in the UK, and would like to reassure all international students that UK universities are ready for you. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact your university directly.

Visit our FAQs for more information about Covid-19 and international students.

Find out more about preparing for your UK studies below.

With one of the best healthcare systems in the world, globally respected policing and low crime rates, studying in the UK is exceptionally safe and secure.

Our NHS (National Health Service) is one of the world’s most advanced healthcare systems, offering safe and modern treatment. Each of our educational institutions offers excellent and comprehensive support to students around issues of wellbeing and mental health.

The NHS is available to all international students. As part of your student visa application, applicants are required to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge. The Immigration Health Surcharge costs £470 per year for a student, and it gives students access to NHS services without further charge (subject to a few exceptions, such as prescription charges in England). Find out more about paying for UK healthcare .

Public health

Remember to follow local guidance for the part of the UK you live in, or are planning on studying in. Please note the public health advice and requirements for Covid-19 may differ between the UK’s four nations. Find out more below:

• NHS England and Covid-19 overview and advice in England
• NHS Scotland and Covid-19 overview and advice in Scotland
• NHS Wales and Covid-19 overview and advice in Wales
• HSCNI (Health and Social Care Northern Ireland) and Northern Ireland Covid-19 overview and advice

Face coverings

It is recommended you wear a face covering in indoor and crowded spaces in the UK such as on public transport and in shops.

The rules may differ depending on the part of the UK you are studying in, so check the latest guidance on face coverings for England , Scotland , Wales or Northern Ireland .

Covid-19 vaccine

The Covid-19 vaccine is available to international students in the UK. Anybody aged 18 or over in the UK is eligible for the Covid-19 vaccination for free, regardless of their nationality or immigration status. Find out more on the NHS website.

Most international students need a student visa to study in the UK. Check if you need a UK visa .

For the latest information on your local UK Visa Application Centre, please visit:

• TLS contact if you’re in Europe, Africa and parts of the Middle East
• VFS Global for all other countries
• UK service points ( UKVCAS )

If your local Visa Application Centre is closed due to Covid-19 restrictions, you can still familiarise yourself with UK visa requirements. We recommend you talk to your university about the English language evidence you will need to make your visa application.

European students: If you’re from an EU country, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway or Switzerland, you can use the UK Immigration: ID Check app on a smartphone to complete the identity stage of your application.

If your local English language testing centre is closed, universities can use other forms of evidence to demonstrate English language ability.

These include:

• IELTS Indicator
• Duolingo English Test
• TOEFL (China)
• PTE Academic

Please note that different universities have different requirements, so make sure you check what form of English language evidence you will need with your university.

Since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic, the UK government has implemented a number of concessions to assist visa holders in the UK who have been impacted by global travel and health restrictions. This includes concessions related to blended and distance learning, meaning international students have more flexibility around when to travel to the UK. Find out more about concessions for students on GOV.UK .

Please note that travel and arrival advice may vary between the UK’s four nations. See relevant advice for where you are travelling to below:

• Northern Ireland

Remember to also check travel advice in your own country in advance of making your travel plans.

It’s important to stay in touch with your university as you make your plans.

We know how daunting moving to another country can be, and we want to reassure you that universities are working hard to ensure that you know what to expect before you travel to the UK and are welcomed and supported on arrival by your chosen university. Get in touch with your university to find out more about how they can support you.

Visit our Covid-19 FAQs for the latest travel advice.

Further information

Follow us at @StudyUKBritish on Twitter, @studyuk_britishcouncil on Instagram and @StudyUK.BritishCouncil on Facebook for regular updates. You can also sign up to our newsletter to get the latest information.

Visit our Covid-19 FAQs for more information on how Covid-19 is affecting international students.

Other relevant websites

More information from the British Council on Covid-19

UKCISA: Covid-19 information for international students

Universities UK International: Covid-19 information

Office for Students guide to Covid-19

UKCISA: student advice line

Gov.uk: Covid-19 advice and support

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The Ultimate Student Travel Guide to London

London is one of our favorite cities in the world and one that we recommend every traveler to visit.

If you're a student  heading to London for the first time and want to know what to expect, this article is for you. In it, we share some of our favorite hangouts, how to save money on accommodation, and how to save money on, well, pretty much everything.

Basic Traveler Information

• You need a passport  to travel to England. 
• You do not need a tourist visa in London.
• You do not need shots  before you travel to England.
• You should make reservations in London.

What to Pack

Think of the U.K. as the Pacific Northwest of Europe. It rains, a lot. 

One packing essential, then, is a small umbrella and a light rain jacket that can be rolled into a small ball to fit inside your backpack. Remember to bring a travel adapter with a voltage converter built in so that you don't end up exploding your hairdryer in the hostel dorm. Another good idea is a pair of comfortable walking shoes. London is an enormous city and you'll most likely spend your time walking from one tourist attraction to the next.

Other than that, the U.K. is very similar to the U.S., so you should pack whatever you would take on a domestic trip. If you happen to forget something important, you'll be able to replace it in London without a problem. 

How to Get There

You'll find the best airfare to London from student airfare agencies like STA Travel. Watch for specials and you could easily pick up a return from around $500. Don't be fooled by some airlines' "student airfares" -- student airfare agencies have the real deal. Airfare sales do happen, though -- check student airfares against an aggregator's  roundup of regular ticket prices.

Where Should I Stay? How Much Will It Cost?

One of the cheapest areas of London is the neighborhoods in the east and south of the city. A couple favorites include Hackney, Shoreditch, and Brixton -- they're all hipster areas with fantastic food, bars, and coffee shops. They're a little way outside of the main attractions, but most things are still within walking distance, and using the underground is easy.

Even though there are cheaper areas of the city, London is still one of the priciest places to visit. Opt to stay in a dorm room in a hostel to save money, but you'll still be looking at $20-30 a night if you do so. 

Getting Around

The London tube is a major miracle of modern transportation, and you'll most likely spend a significant amount of time on it. Though it's the oldest in the world, London's subway is clean, safe, and efficient. Although expensive, because... London. If the tube doesn't take you close to your London destination's door, the bus (maybe a double-decker!) will.

Plentiful black London cabs have fixed prices and Uber is everywhere within the city. In short, you'll never struggle to get to where you need to go in London.

British Money and Creating a Realistic Budget

England's currency is the pound and you won't be able to spend any other currency within the country.

London is still expensive, though, so you should plan on spending around $55/day. Food and beds are pricey but museums are free. You can skip out on the food scene by cheaply cooking in your hostel kitchen, but you definitely shouldn't miss out on the food markets like Brixton Village, Borough Market , and Broadway Market if at all possible.

Things to Do

London's history is long and deep -- do tour the Tower of London  for an introductory insight into it. Borrow someone's copy of the Time Out music/film/event guide or check Time Out online for a highly comprehensive list of what's happening in London while you're there.

Consider buying a one-day Original Bus Tour pass to hop on and off at major sites.

Spend whole days hanging out in places like Piccadilly Circus or Covent Garden, and check the top free things to do in London .

Safety, Crime, and Travel Healthcare

The artful dodger does lurk in the London tube. You can feel physically safe in all of London provided you use basic travel safety precautions. Terrorism is not a big concern, despite some U.S. hysteria over the '05 tube bombings.

U.S. travelers get free emergency room care in London; all else is pay as you go, though your U.S. health insurance probably covers you. Food and tap water are perfectly safe in London.

Mail, Internet, and Phone Calls

You can buy local SIM card  for making calls and using data in England for around $20 USD (for 1 GB of data and some calls and texts) in U.K. convenience stores and phone stores, like Vodafone or EE.

London has free Wi-Fi all over the city, so if you don't have an unlocked phone or don't want to buy a local SIM card, you shouldn't have any problem getting connected. Hostels and hotels typically offer free Wi-Fi to their guests, as well. 

Tour Groups

Visiting London is so expensive that going with a tour group is a great idea -- it can be cheaper and much easier than visiting on your own. Several companies specialize in student group travel -- try EF Tours for a very decent experience.

Nearby Destinations

Ireland is home to cheap European air champ Ryanair, which departs from many London airports and gets you around Europe and to Ireland. Take the Eurostar to Paris, Brussels, or Amsterdam to catch a European train with a Rail Europe pass. Ferries exist, too.

Your Trip to London: The Complete Guide

Know Before You Go: A Traveler's Guide to UK Currency

Travel Tips for Visiting London on a Budget

10 Questions to Ask Yourself Before You Plan Your UK Trip

Pay-as-You-Go Cell Phones In London

Camden Markets - The Complete Guide

Your Trip to Birmingham, England: The Complete Guide

Step-By-Step Budget Tips for a First European Vacation

20 Tips for Traveling in Peru on a Budget

Packing for Airport Security

August in London: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

How to Rock Your First Solo Trip Overseas

How to Enjoy a Quick Layover in London on a Budget

Tips on How to Save Money when You Visit Toronto

5 Things to Never Do in the United Kingdom

Your Trip to Edinburgh: The Complete Guide

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Top Travel Destinations in the UK for Students

Europe , Where to Go

Known for its lush green fields, winding roads and beautiful scenery, it’s impossible to say no! But, where in the UK should you visit? Here are our top picks for the best travel destinations in the UK, chosen specifically for students.

Cornwall is famous for its beauty. Tucked away at the very bottom of the UK, it harbours hidden beaches and long, sweeping cliffs along the English Channel. Here, you can visit Land’s End, the most westerly point of mainland England, as well as the Eden Project – a garden of two giant biomes, full of plants collected from many different climates and environments, something difficult to see anywhere else in the world. If that’s not enough to persuade you, Cornish pasties and Cornish cream should be! Your best option for accommodation is a holiday park – you can find the best holiday parks in Cornwall , which are fun for all the family.

Named fourth on the list of regions to visit by Lonely Planet in 2017, North Wales has a lot to offer, the coastal town of Bangor being its gem. Bangor is the ideal spot to access all of North Wales – from Snowdonia to Anglesey, it’s easy to get to whatever you’re looking for. There are plenty of activities for the more adventurous, including zip lines and an inland surfing lake to attract adrenaline junkies, but Bangor is also a hot spot for those who enjoy art and culture, home to two of the region’s best venues, Pontio and Storiel. With a university at the heart of this town, the cost of living and prices in Bangor are fairly low, meaning that, if you’re on a budget, it’s not hard to find a nice place to stay and some decent food for a good price.

For those who are looking for a city escape, Glasgow is the best place to look. The city has undergone plenty of updates and renovations in the past few years and has now become the beating heart of Scotland, boasting miles of shops, an incredibly broad range of cultures, and a bright nightlife. Glasgow often gets overshadowed by its partner, Edinburgh, but this means Glasgow is perfect for those travelling on a budget, as prices are much lower. The city is always busy and lively, and there’s an endless amount of culture as well as a strong community that makes you feel warm and welcome. The Science Centre, Cathedral and Kelvingrove Art Gallery all offer plenty of history and culture to keep you entertained, and for those looking for a little luxury, a trip to the Willow Tea Rooms (inspired by the works of Mackintosh) is a must for elegant afternoon tea.

These are just 3 of the top places in the UK to visit, all often wrongly overlooked – there are plenty more out there, but these are some of our favourites. Enjoy your trip!

RECENT STUDENT TRAVEL PLANNING GUIDE ARTICLES

Blog The Education Hub

https://educationhub.blog.gov.uk/2022/01/12/what-international-university-students-should-know-before-travelling-to-england/

What international university students should know before travelling to England

As many international students may be considering travelling back to England to their university or other higher education provider over the next few weeks, we have been working closely with the higher education sector to ensure that they are supported.

We encourage students to reach out to their higher education provider if they have any concerns over travelling to England so providers are ready to support them where needed.

Here’s what students need to know before travelling.

What should I do before travelling to England?

If you are intending to travel to England, we would encourage you to check the latest travel advice to ensure you are fully prepared.

The higher education sector is working hard to ensure that international students are supported and feel welcomed throughout their studies whether in the UK or remotely in their home country.

We expect you will be given the support you need upon arrival by your university. Universities UK has provided a check list for higher education providers to ensure you can be supported if you are required to self-isolate at any point.

We have also published COVID-19 guidance for higher education here .

Am I eligible for the vaccine, including the booster? And will I have to pay?

Everybody aged 12 or over in the UK is eligible for the COVID-19 vaccination (including the booster vaccine, three months after the second dose) for free regardless of their nationality or immigration status, unless you’re medically exempt . You can do this by registering with a GP or attending a walk-in vaccine centre.

If you are looking to get your booster and have been vaccinated outside the UK, we would encourage you to bring your vaccination proof with you to your GP or walk-in vaccine centre, where they will be able to advise you on the most suitable booster vaccine available.

More information on the vaccine and eligibility can be found here .

How will I be able to certify my vaccination status under Plan B in England?

If you have been vaccinated overseas in line with the approved list of vaccines and countries you will be able to certify your vaccination status. You will be required to show your COVID status and photo identification (for example, a passport) matching the country in which you were vaccinated.

If you are a student in England who has been vaccinated with an overseas vaccine approved by the UK’s Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency  (MHRA), you will also be able to add this to your NHS record, which can then be used to generate a NHS Covid pass .

If you are not considered fully vaccinated as your vaccine is not approved or you have not had a vaccine from an approved country there is also the option to do a (negative) COVID test in order to gain access to certification, more information about this is available on the NHS site .

When must I arrive in the UK if I am currently studying remotely?

  Visa concessions for those on student (or Tier 4) visas allow for the provision of online learning for students outside the UK until 6 April 2022. These visa concessions have been implemented so that students have a greater degree of flexibility on when they travel into the UK, if required.

We encourage you to speak to your higher education provider to understand your course requirements and when your higher education provider will require face-to-face learning.

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Travel during your stay

If you are travelling outside the UK during your studies you must be aware of  visa requirements . Here you can find out information on the visa you will require and advice on re-entering the UK. Be particularly careful not to lose your Biometric Residence Permit while you are away from the UK.

Schengen visa

If you want to travel to Europe during your stay in the UK, you may be required to apply for a Schengen visa before you travel.

The Schengen visa allows visitors to obtain one visa to visit a number of designated countries within the EEA. To find out if you require a Schengen visa, visit the UK embassy website of the country you wish to visit.

There are 26 member countries in the Schengen visa scheme:

The UK is not a Schengen territory and the visa cannot be used to enter this country.

Types of Schengen visa

• The Airport transit visa allows you to transit through the international transit area of an airport in a Schengen member state, but not to exit this area before flying to your next destination.
• The transit visa enables you to pass through the territory of one or more Schengen member states on your way to another country outside of the Schengen space.
• The short stay or travel visa allows a visit of up to three months in any six month period. This is the visa that most students wanting to travel within the Schengen space as tourists or conference attendees will require.

You can also submit an application for multiple entry visas. This allows you to travel more than once into the Schengen space during a three month period.

Schengen visa charges

There is a charge for obtaining a Schengen visa which will vary depending on which country is issuing it. You should apply either to the embassy of the country you plan to spend most time in or the country you will go to first.

Each embassy produces its own application form for the visa and you will need to contact the appropriate authority by telephoning their enquiry number to ask them to send a form out to you. Some embassies' forms are available from their website. Be careful to find the official embassy website rather than an agency website.

Other Schengen visa requirements

• Each embassy has its own policy on how much leave (ie permission) to enter or remain in the UK applicants need to have beyond the term of their proposed trip. For example, you may be required to have a passport which is valid for at least three months longer than the proposed visa.
• You may need to spend time waiting for the national authorities to process your passport renewal, it is therefore advisable to apply early.
• Depending on your nationality, embassies may also require you to make your application in person.

Re-entering the UK after your trip

If you have a still-current Student visa Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) and your circumstances haven’t changed since it was issued, you should be able to use it to re-enter the UK.

When your visa was issued you would have been issued with a 30 (or 90) day entry visa (vignette) stuck into your passport along with instructions to collect your BRP after arrival in the UK. Do not attempt to travel without your BRP as you will need to show this with your passport on return to the UK. You do not have to apply for a new vignette to re-enter the UK, unless you have misplaced your BRP whilst travelling.

On arrival, have with you in your hand luggage your CAS number on paper and a certificate of enrolment which you can print from Student Self-Service. Although your visa should be enough for re-entry to the UK, these could help if there is any concern about your status.

Border control will not usually let you show them documents on a phone, tablet or laptop. Be cautious about making trips outside the UK after you have completed study or when your visa is close to expiry. Border Control staff have the power to refuse entry if they consider there has been a significant change of circumstance since your visa was granted.  Be prepared to explain for example that although you have finished your course, your purpose for returning is not incompatible with the reason your visa was granted, and that you do not plan to remain beyond your visa’s expiry date unless you are eligible and have applied for another visa. If you plan to apply for another visa, make sure you are eligible and ready to do so from within the UK and you are able to explain this. If you still have matters to attend to related to your course, for example a graduation ceremony before your visa expiry date, or you need to pack up belongings before leaving the UK, you could mention this and if you have already made travel arrangements this can help as evidence of your intention to leave.

If your visa was granted under the Tier 4 pilot for Masters students your visa end date should be six months after your course end date rather than the usual two or four months. You can travel and return to the UK during this period. Border Control staff may be unfamiliar with the Pilot as this scheme has now ended, so be prepared to explain if you are asked that you are coming back to make use of your ‘wrapping up period’ after having been granted six months extra owing to the pilot scheme.

If you have completed early, or withdrawn or suspended from your course, this is likely to have been reported to the Home Office who will curtail  (cut short) your visa.  Even though your  permission still appears to be valid you will not be permitted to re-enter the UK with a visa which has been or is in the process of being curtailed. The University would have emailed you using contact details on your student record before any report was made to the Home Office to let you know this was happening and to explain the consequences.  The Home Office will inform you directly of the new, shorter,  end date of your visa and you will not receive a new BRP.

If you are using Short-Term Student status  to study, there is a difference between having a visa in this capacity and having the status conferred by a stamp on arrival. If you have a Short-Term Student visa in your passport, this should be multi entry so you can use it to re-enter the UK during its period of validity. If you did not need to apply for a visa but were stamped in as a short-term student, this status will lapse when you leave the UK and when you return you will need to qualify again as a short term student, so have with you a recent 'short-term student visa' letter from your college or course organiser, and evidence of your finances.  The short term student visa route will be absorbed into the visitor route from 1st December 2020, so all applications that would have fallen under the short term visa route will need to be made under the visitor category.

Healthcare abroad

For a Schengen visa application, travel insurance is mandatory, check the requirements for the country you are applying to for your visa. Insurance must provide minimum health cost coverage of €30,000 and cover any possible costs for medical repatriation, and emergency and/or hospital treatment. The insurance must be valid throughout the Schengen area, and for the full duration of your stay.

Even if you don't need to apply for a Schengen visa it is strongly advisable to purchase comprehensive medical cover and insurance before you travel. You should also check if there are any health care arrangements between your home country and the country you wish to visit.

Taking care of your Biometric Residence Permit

Whenever you are in unfamiliar surroundings take particular care of your belongings including your passport and Biometric Residence Permit. BRPs can get lost or stolen. If this happens, please look at our guidance for what to do .

Systems & Services

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• Student Self Service
• Self Service guide
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• GSS - see Student Self Service
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Please email us for visa information and help: [email protected]

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The Ultimate Guide to Cost-Effective Student Travel in the UK

For students in the UK, exploring new places and immersing oneself in diverse cultures is an enriching experience. However, being on a tight budget can often make travel seem like a luxury. Fear not! In this comprehensive guide, we will unveil the most cost-effective ways for students to travel across the UK. From discounted transportation options to budget-friendly accommodation and sightseeing hacks, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s embark on a cost-effective student travel adventure without breaking the bank!

Cost-Effective Student Travel

1. planning ahead:.

a. Research and Flexibility: The key to affordable student travel is planning ahead. Start researching well in advance to find the best deals on transportation, accommodation, and attractions. Remain flexible with your travel dates and be open to different destinations, as this can significantly impact your overall expenses.

b. Off-Peak Travel: Travelling during off-peak seasons can save you a substantial amount of money. Avoid school holidays and weekends, as prices tend to surge during these periods. Opting for midweek travel can help you snag better deals on flights, trains, and accommodations.

2. Transportation:

a. Railcards: One of the best investments a student can make is purchasing a railcard. The 16-25 Railcard or the 26-30 Railcard provides substantial discounts on train fares throughout the UK. With a railcard, you can save up to 1/3 of the original ticket price, making it an essential tool for cost-effective travel.

b. Coach Travel: Consider travelling by coach, as it is often more economical than trains or flights. Companies like National Express and Megabus offer budget-friendly fares, especially if booked in advance. Be prepared for longer journey times, but enjoy the picturesque views and the savings in your pocket .

c. Carpooling and Ride-Sharing: Another option to explore is carpooling or ride-sharing services such as BlaBlaCar. By sharing fuel and toll costs with fellow travellers, you can significantly reduce expenses while making new friends along the way.

3. Accommodation:

a. Hostels and Budget Hotels: Hostels are an excellent choice for student travellers, providing affordable accommodation and a vibrant social atmosphere. Websites like Hostelworld and Booking.com offer a wide range of budget-friendly options. If hostels aren’t your preference, look for budget hotels or consider alternative accommodation options such as Airbnb.

b. Student Housing and University Accommodation: During academic breaks, many universities rent out their student accommodations at reasonable prices. Check with your university’s housing department or student union for potential opportunities.

c. Couchsurfing: If you’re open to new experiences and meeting locals, consider using the Couchsurfing platform. It connects travellers with hosts willing to provide a couch or spare room for free. Remember to prioritise safety and read reviews before choosing a host.

4. Sightseeing and Activities:

a. Free Attractions: Many UK cities offer free entry to museums , galleries, and landmarks. Take advantage of these opportunities to explore the culture and history without spending a penny. Popular attractions like the British Museum in London or the National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh are excellent examples.

b. Student Discounts: Always carry your student ID card, as it can unlock numerous discounts on attractions, tours, and even public transportation. Museums, theatres, cinemas, and restaurants often offer reduced rates for students, so be sure to inquire about student discounts wherever you go.

c. Walking Tours and City Passes: Joining free or low-cost walking tours is an excellent way to explore cities while learning from knowledgeable local guides. Additionally, consider purchasing city passes that bundle several attractions together at a discounted price. These passes can be found for major cities like London, Edinburgh, and Manchester.

Cost-Effective Student Travel Conclusion

Travelling as a student in the UK can be an affordable and rewarding experience with the right planning and smart choices. By using railcards, opting for budget transportation, seeking out affordable accommodation, and taking advantage of student discounts, you can explore the UK without burdening your wallet. Remember to plan ahead, remain flexible, and make the most of the free attractions and activities available in the cities you visit. Happy travels on your budget-friendly adventures!

Before you go! Have you read our Magazine?

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A Guide To Student Travel Discounts In The UK

By Rebecca Maher on August 12th, 2022

Benefits of Student Travel Discounts in the UK

Who doesn’t love a discount card! Especially when you are a student, and the cost of living is on the rise! Some of the best student travel discounts in the UK include travelling via train, tube, and bus. We want to help you save money so that you can enjoy student living with Downing Students as much as possible. So, we have put together our top tips to save money when travelling around the UK with student travel discounts.

Student Discount on Trains

You will be happy to hear that all cities home to Downing Student’s accommodation are situated in the best central locations with access to public transport links close by.

Including: London , Liverpool , Leeds , Coventry , Cambridge , Newcastle , Glasgow , Edinburgh and Exeter .

16-25 Railcard

If you’re between 16-25, good news! You can save money by applying for a railcard, saving 30% off train travel. This student travel card is ideal for students regularly travelling to and from university campuses, or those UK students that are looking to travel home at weekends.

How To Apply For A 16-25 Railcard

Just £30 a year, 16-25 railcards can be purchased either online or at staffed ticket stations. You can also buy your student travel card online, providing you download the Railcard app to access your 16-25 railcard. If you know you will be doing a lot of traveling over the next three years, a 3-year 16-25 railcard costs just £70.  All you need to do is purchase your railcard by having a valid debit card, valid UK driving license or international passport and a digital passport style photo to upload for your discount card.

16-17 Saver Railcard

Heading to college and not sure what transport methods to look at? You can save yourself 50% off all train travel by applying for a railcard. This includes season tickets, standard, off-peak and anytime travel. Ideal for travelling to campus, fun days out and even traveling home too.

How To Apply For A 16-17 Saver Railcard

To get your hands on a 16-17 travel card, you need to provide evidence of age, (national ID, passport, UK Driver’s License), have a good photo for ID purposes and finally a debit or credit card to secure your student travel card. TIP – if you move to university and you’re not quite 18, make sure you purchase one of these. It could be the month before your 18 th birthday and it will see you through for 12 months with a 50% saving.

London Underground Student Discount

Staying with us at Vega London , The Lyra or Atlas for the 22/23 term? Make student living that much easier and benefit from student travel discounts UK. Or maybe you know friends who will be living in London and you plan to visit them, this saving can help you then.

18+ Student Oyster Card

Get yourself an oyster card for your student travel in and around London. You will save 30% with this student deal, providing you live in a London Borough during term time. An oyster card is super beneficial allowing you to buy discounted travelcards, bus and tram season tickets.

How To Apply For A 18+ Student Oyster Card

To get your 18+ oyster card, apply online by providing an email address, student enrolment ID, a London borough address and a digital photo.

16+ Zip Oyster Photocard

Fresh out of school or college? This one is for you! Get 50% off adult pay as you go fares on bus, Tube, DLR, London Overground, Elizabeth line (excluding between West Drayton and Reading) and most National Rail services in London.

How To Apply For A 16+ Zip Oyster Photocard

A parent or guardian is required to apply for an oyster card for students under the age of 18 . If you are 18 or over, you will need to apply online and create a photocard in keeping with the 16+ zip oyster terms and conditions.

Coach Student Discount

Travelling by coach is considered one of the most low-cost ways of travelling. Sure, on some occasions it may take a little longer to travel, but using a young persons’ coach card will definitely help you save money – meaning you can focus more on studying and ultimately, enjoying student life!

Young Persons’ Coach card

For just £12.50 for the year or £30 for three years, you will save a third of the price on coach travel on standard and fully flexible fares. Even better, you will save money travelling to events and festivals too – winner!

How To Apply For A Young Persons Coach card

A young persons’ coach card can be purchased using the online registration form, with the travel card then delivered to your home address within 7 days. Alternatively, you can call National Express who can arrive delivery of your student travel card for you.

With student living throughout the UK, Downing Students accommodation is located within the best city central locations to ensure our students have easy access to nearby transport links for student travel. Take Vega London for example, a quick 5-minute walk away from Vauxhall Underground.

Looking to study at University of Warwick, Coventry? You are in luck! When you book your next home away from home at City Village   student living you get a FREE, yes FREE bus pass! Hurry, this offer won’t be around for much longer!

Like to learn more? We would love to hear from you!

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Student Travel

Why travel as a student.

Although there is never a bad time to see the world, travelling when you're a student is particularly rewarding for a whole host of reasons. On this page we'll run you through the key ones, and also give you advice on what to do, where to do it and, most importantly, how you can make it all happen for the best possible price. We always have brilliant discounts and deals running, whether on flights , tours or those all-important travel services !

Travelling as a student is awesome on so many levels. We could easily list 100 reasons here, but here are our top five!

Discounts & deals

There are HEAPS of deals to be snapped up when you're a student, both in the planning stages (i.e. booking your flights) and also once in-destination (i.e. using your student card to get discounted entry into amazing places). At StudentUniverse we always have cheap student flights available, deals on tours and discounts on accommodation.

Break from studies

Studies are super important - we know you know that - but it's important to find a balance, too. The last thing you want to do is burn yourself out, spending endless nights up to the early hours, gulping down energy drinks (and other types...). Travel gives you a literal breath of fresh air, and provides really valuable perspective on things.

Personal growth

There's nothing like travelling to send your confidence into overdrive, and no matter what career you ultimately pursue, nothing will get you further than confidence and a healthy mindset. Whether you're hostel-hopping around Australia, on a sailing adventure in Croatia or negotiating the Trans-Siberian Express, you'll return home a totally different person.

Real world experience

It's all well and good learning things in theory in a classroom, but nothing can substitute actual real life experience when it comes to taking things in on that vocational level. This is why travelling as a student is such a great time to do it - you can merge these two types of education. If you're training at uni to be a teacher, why not try actually teaching for real on a TEFL placement in Thailand ?

Employers love it!

Travel experience frequently pushes candidates to the top of the pile when applying for jobs. Think about it: if everyone's taken the same courses and has reasonably similar grades, employers will be looking for that extra something to make people stand out. Travel is often the answer to that. Plus, you'll have all that confidence mentioned earlier - it goes a long way!

What we offer

Amazing flight discounts

Become a member to unlock exclusive student flight discounts (up to 30% off).

Browse epic tours

Guided tours are perfect when traveling alone or with friends. See everything, plan nothing. Sweet deal.

Great hotels on a budget

Because with discount flights, you need discount hotels, right? Right.

Car rentals – search, compare & save

Dind cheap rental cars at over 60,000 locations worldwide

Things to do when travelling as a student

There are certain types of travel experiences that are perfectly suited for students, and we’ll whisk you through them here.

The big one. Tours are a fantastic way to travel as a student, as they provide enough structure to guarantee safety and ensure you have a rich experience, but you also have plenty of freedom, so it won’t feel like you’re on a school trip! The toughest thing about adventure tours is choosing what to do. Canoeing down the Mekong River in China? City-hopping around Europe? Scaling Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania? The choice is yours...

Study abroad

Clearly perfect for student travel, study abroad placements are great for those who don’t necessarily want to pause their education, but at the same time are craving the thrill of living in new destinations and making friends from different cultures. Our friends over at gapyear.com have some good options for this, and we can of course take care of your flights.

Internships

Similarly to studying abroad, doing an internship overseas is a smart way to combine your current or chosen path with real life experience in new cultures. If you’re studying to be a veterinarian, for example, you could do an animal-care internship in South Africa, working with exotic beasts.

Flight and wing it

Maybe… just maybe… you’re fed up of being told what to do by everybody, and what to think, and where to stand, and how to do it. Maybe what you need is to break free, to have an adventure, experience true spontaneity, see what it’s like to have a total lack of a plan. In that case, you can just book a one-way ticket to wherever, and the world’s your oyster!

Best destinations for student travel

As with deciding what to do, there are some really great options when it comes to figuring out where you want to go, and we can get you there with our discounted student flights. Check out some of our guides below to some top student travel destinations. These include places like Australia , which with its Westernised culture and exotic landscapes offers a perfect first step into adventure travel; the USA , with its options for epic road trips and tours; and Asia , with its buzzing cities, paradise islands and amazing street food.

Student travel services

So, we’ve shown you why travelling as a student is a great time to do it, and hopefully you’re sufficiently inspired by all the amazing things you can do, and the mind-blowing places you can see!

But we’re not done yet. For all this to become an epic reality, there are a few practical concerns to think about, and we can help with these too! Apart from booking your flights at a great price, we can advise on things like travel insurance and visas , and help you find great accommodation within your budget. Once you’ve signed up to become a member (it’s free!) you’ll also have 24/7 access to our travel services. This customer care centre is dedicated 100% to finding you the best deals with our partnered airlines, and of course answering any questions you have once you’ve booked.

Student travel resources

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• 14 Great Ways to Get Cheaper Student Travel Around the UK and Beyond

In a post-recession age when money is tight for all of us, finances are likely to be an ever-present worry when you’re still at school and earning only a modest income from a part-time job or pocket money.

You should also read…

• 12 Ways for University Students to Get Funding and Save Money
• Summer Travel: Where You Should Go and Why

One of the major costs you’re likely to have to consider in order to enjoy life in your spare time is transport. Whether you’re commuting to and from school, going to visit friends or relatives, or planning a day trip or holiday in the UK or beyond, it pays to be aware of the many ways in which you can make significant savings on the ever-increasing cost of travel. The tips and tricks in this article will show you that the high cost of transport doesn’t have to stand in the way of your plans.

1. Get the coach between cities with Megabus

Prepare to be amazed at the phenomenally cheap prices offered for coach journeys by Megabus , which offers cheap bus and train travel between UK cities and even over the Channel to various European cities. With fares starting at less than £1.50, Megabus offers significant savings over the cost of rail travel and means you won’t have to nag your parents to drive you to places anymore!

2. Save a third on rail travel using the 16-25 Railcard

If rail travel is unavoidable, you can save a third off the cost of train tickets with a 16-25 Railcard . Though you’ll have to pay for it – it costs £30 for a year or £70 for three years – it will quickly pay for itself in the money you’ll save. It’s valid on all Standard and First Class Advance fares, and the only restriction is that a minimum fare of £12 will apply if you travel between 4.30am and 10am midweek, except in July and August. Because of this restriction, and the fact that the 16-25 Railcard won’t get you a discount off the price of a season ticket, it’s unfortunately not an ideal solution if you’re using the train for a daily commute to school. However, if you’re likely to travel by rail at the weekends, or for day trips, it will quickly prove its worth. The 16-25 Railcard also entitles you to a huge number of discounts on days out, restaurants, holidays and so on, so it allows you to save money on other things as well.

3. Perfect the art of split ticketing

Who knows how the ‘powers that be’ decide how train tickets should be priced, but a weird loophole in ticket pricing structures means that it’s sometimes cheaper to book tickets separately for each leg of your journey than it is to book a single ticket for the entirety of your journey. For example, a ticket from Oxford to Birmingham costs around £30. However, if you were to buy a ticket from Oxford to Banbury, and a separate one from Banbury to Birmingham, you might well find that your journey works out cheaper. Don’t ask us why – it’s just the way it is! Luckily, a number of apps and websites exist to help you calculate and compare the costs of splitting journeys; here’s some more information on split ticketing from Raileasy . Splitting your tickets in this way is totally legitimate – all that matters is that each individual ticket is valid and that the train you’re on does actually stop at the destination printed on the ticket. You don’t even need to get off the train you’re on! It’s baffling, but it works.

4. Book train tickets 12 weeks in advance

If you know well in advance that you’re going to be travelling somewhere on a certain date – to a wedding, for example – you can make substantial savings by booking your train ticket at least 12 weeks in advance. According to thetrainline.com , booking in advance can save you an average of 43%; sometimes much more. If you’re ordering tickets online in advance, you can also save money by electing to pick up the tickets at the station on the day, rather than having them posted to you for an extra fee. Just don’t forget to take the debit or credit card you booked with for proof of purchase (if your parents booked for you, you’ll need to get them to come along to the station with you to collect the tickets from the machine).

5. Get an Oyster Card if you go to London regularly

For cheaper travel around London, if it’s something you do regularly, it’s well worth acquiring an Oyster Card . This is valid on all London buses, the London Underground, Tram, Docklands Light Railway (DLR), London Overground and most National Rail services within London. It’s a pre-paid smartcard that you top up with credit in a similar way to how you top up pay-as-you-go mobile phones, and it gives you cheaper travel across the London transport network, capping prices each day to avoid you having to spend more than necessary. To get an Oyster Card, all you have to do is sign up online (or at a London Underground station, Oyster Ticket shop or various other locations) and put down a £5 deposit (refundable if you ever want to return your card, along with any remaining credit). If you’re only going to London for the day, a London Travelcard would be more appropriate.

6. Take advantage of Sail & Rail deals to Ireland

Organising a last-minute trip to Ireland? Then you can take advantage of the RailSail deal from Irish Ferries, which offers combined train and ferry tickets from just €42 (about £34) per person, each way (also bookable through thetrainline.com ). The flat-rate fare depends on how far you are from the port, calculated by which zone you fall into – a bit like the zones on the London Underground. It’s ideal for last-minute trips because the fare doesn’t change, even if you book on the day. Even better, you can take two bags of any weight with you, and you don’t have to take a passport.

7. The six week flight-booking rule

Turning to air travel now, and once again the amount of time you leave booking your flight can have a huge impact on the price you pay. Contrary to what you might expect, prices are often hiked for last-minute travel, so unless it’s totally unavoidable, try not to leave booking until just before you travel. For the budget airlines Ryanair and Easyjet , the optimum booking time for the cheapest prices is thought to be around six weeks in advance. On average across all airlines, research has shown that five weeks in advance is the optimum booking time.

8. Shop around for the cheapest flights

As with many purchases, it’s a good idea to shop around to get the best deal when it comes to buying flights. The good news is that there are lots of websites designed to help you do just that; SkyScanner , Cheapflights and Flightchecker are just three examples. You’ll need to compare airlines every time you fly, as there’s unfortunately no single airline that guarantees that they’ll always have the cheapest prices for every destination at every time of day, week or year. Also, don’t forget that sometimes, the budget airlines aren’t actually cheaper than an airline such as British Airways, so don’t rule out these supposedly more expensive carriers.

9. Be flexible with your travel dates and times

Further savings can be made if you’re able to be flexible about the dates and times you fly. This is because being flexible allows you to take advantage of the times of the day and week when fewer people travel, when airlines lower their fares to encourage more people to book. For example, flights at awkward times of the day, such as very early in the morning or very late at night, are often cheaper, so if you don’t mind disrupting your sleeping pattern temporarily, you should be able to save money.

10. Book a package holiday just for the flight

Companies such as First Choice and Thomas Cook offer great prices on all-inclusive holidays – breaks that include the flight, accommodation, food and drinks. The prices are so good, in fact, that it can sometimes be cheaper to book an entire package holiday than to buy the flights on their own. So, even if you already have accommodation sorted (staying with relatives, for instance), it’s worth taking a look at the package deals available to see if they work out cheaper than the cost of a flight on its own. You’re under no obligation to stay in the hotel that comes with the package deal if you don’t want to.

11. Avoid paying for luggage

Many airlines charge for any luggage that weighs over its prescribed limits, whether the overweight luggage is checked or cabin bags. Some also charge you to check in any bag and limit you to just one item of hand luggage. However, if you’re canny about it, you can easily avoid paying anything for your luggage. A golden rule is always to travel light, ideally keeping your luggage to a single item of cabin luggage. The other consideration is that most major UK airports don’t weigh your hand luggage – they measure it. So if you are checking a suitcase in, and it’s close to the weight limit, take some items out of it and put it in your hand luggage instead. Hand luggage on Ryanair and Easyjet doesn’t usually get weighed in Gatwick, Luton, Manchester, Edinburgh, Stansted or Birmingham (or Dublin, going outside the UK). Furthermore, if you’re carrying your luggage, such as a rucksack, rather than using a wheeled suitcase, the airport is much less likely to check its measurements. However, always check the luggage requirements of the individual airline before you fly – they’re all different, and you can avoid being caught out at the airport and having to pay extra simply by doing a little research in advance.

12. Don’t fly directly into Germany

Sometimes it’s the lesser-known factoids that can save you money. For example, if you’re heading for Germany, you can save money by flying into a neighbouring country if your destination is anywhere near a border. This is because the country has high airport taxes, and it can work out cheaper to fly into Poland or the Netherlands and get a train into Germany instead. The same principle could apply elsewhere, so it’s worth checking out prices to different airports even if they’re in a neighbouring country, as doing so could prove substantially cheaper (and it can mean the difference between being able to fly with a budget airline or not, if your destination airport isn’t served by a budget carrier).

13. Share a lift

Another cheap way to travel is sharing a lift, either with friends or through a website such as Liftshare , National CarShare or Mylifts.com . These websites allows you to share journeys with others, clubbing together either on a regular basis or for a one-off trip, such as to a sporting event or festival. You pay the driver a share of the petrol costs, so you both benefit. You have to be 18 or over to use these services, and Lifeshare has a good list of safety tips to ensure you travel safely. This could be a good option if you need to get to somewhere that isn’t well-served by public transport, or that’s more difficult to access.

14. Get a bike

Finally, if you want to save money on travelling around your own town or city, have you thought about getting around by bike? Many places have dedicated cycle lanes to increase your safety, and as well as saving you a huge amount of money on bus or train fares, you’ll keep fit as well! If you have any other cheap travel tips you think we’ve missed, we’d love to hear them! Leave a comment below and help others save.

Bringing family with you on a UK student visa

Many international students plan to bring families with them when they study abroad in the uk. this guide will explain which student visas will allow this and how to apply .

Deepa Chadha

From January 2024, international students coming to the UK will only be allowed to bring their dependants on their student visa if they are enrolled on specific postgraduate courses categorised as research programmes. These eligible programmes include PhDs, other doctoral qualifications, or master's programmes that involve research and the creation of original work. The restriction on bringing dependants will be applicable to all international students starting their courses from 1st January 2024.

What are the circumstances for bringing dependants on a UK student visa?

Only students who are enrolled on a research postgraduate programme will be allowed to bring dependants into the UK onto their student visa. This means that no undergraduate students or students on taught postgraduate programmes are permitted to bring family members into the UK with them. 

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Who counts as a dependant?

Your partner and/or your child can be your dependants. Other relatives such as parents do not count as dependants.

“Partner” means your husband or wife, your civil partner or your unmarried partner. To be considered an “unmarried partner”, you usually need to have been living together in a relationship similar to marriage or civil partnership for at least two years before you make your immigration application.

In all cases, you and your partner  must both be at least 18 years old when you apply for immigration permission and you must intend to live together throughout your stay in the UK.

If your child is applying to come to the UK as your dependant for the first time, they must be under 18 years old when they apply. If your child is 16 or older when they apply, they must not be “leading an independent life”.

Often, there is a requirement that both  of the child’s parents must be in, or coming with the child to, the UK (although not with visitor immigration permission). However, there are some notable exceptions to this , which are outlined in the rules themselves, so be sure to check those thoroughly.

What are the requirements for dependants on the UK student visa?

Dependants must not intend to stay in the UK longer than the period of the visa.

Unless your dependants have lived in the UK with permission for the 12 months directly preceding their application, they are also required to have a specified amount of funds available for their living costs . Unless they meet the requirements for differentiation arrangements , they will have to demonstrate that they have these funds in an accepted format as part of their application.

Your dependants will not be able to make an application from within the UK if their current immigration status is as a visitor (or one of a small number of other immigration categories).

How do you apply to bring dependants to the UK on your student visa?

Applications in the UK and overseas are made online, but most applicants will also be required to attend an in-person appointment to enrol biometrics (photograph and fingerprints).

Most Visa Application Centres (VACs) around the world have reopened following closures caused by Covid-19, but the deadline to enrol biometrics has been extended to accommodate for the pandemic.

How much does it cost to apply for dependants on a UK student visa?

The cost to apply for dependants to your student visa is currently £363 for applications from outside the UK and £490 for applications from inside the UK. There is also the immigration health surcharge to be aware of, which is currently £470 per year of your visa. The cost of biometrics such as fingerprints and photographs is £19.20.

In some cases, your dependants will need to undergo a test for tuberculosis (TB) and present a certificate to show that they are clear of TB as part of their application, so this is another potential cost to have in mind.

Remember, the UK’s immigration rules change frequently. It’s worth checking the UK government website as well as information on UKCISA for important updates.

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Student Group Travel, School Trips and Tours

Tailor-made student group travel.

Greatdays offer tailor-made school trips, tours and student group travel arrangements for experienced teachers, lecturers and group leaders. One of our destination specialists will personally tailor make your next tour to your exact requirements. Groups by air, coach or train from 15 to 50 + persons travelling to  Great Britain , Disneyland Paris,  Europe  and  Worldwide  destinations. A great choice of budget and middle class hotels, transfers, meal arrangements, guided  sightseeing tours  and excursions.

London Student Group Travel

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Worldwide Student Group Travel

Greatdays Wholesale

Greatdays offer a trade only booking service for coach and tour operators or professional group travel organisers and we can provide single or multiple elements of a holiday.

Greatdays Holidays

Greatdays are able to offer a complete tailor-made booking service for group travel organisers with the help of one of our friendly consultants to assist you through the booking process.

Providing customised group travel since 1985

Greatdays Travel Group is one of the UK’s leading tour operators for group travel, providing customised tours and holidays for groups of all sizes. We have more than 30 years experience working with domestic, incoming and outbound groups, serving London, the UK,and Ireland, continental Europe and worldwide .

Our team of professional destination specialists can provide inspiring travel ideas at competitive and value-for-money prices. We can arrange accommodation in 3, 4 and 5-star hotels, and organise ferry crossings, flights, sightseeing, coach hire, transfers, guide services, theatre tickets, and tickets and vouchers for visitor attractions and tourism suppliers.

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Student visa

Your partner and children.

Your partner and children (‘dependants’) may be able to apply to come to the UK or stay longer in the UK.

You must be one of the following:

• a government-sponsored student starting a course that lasts longer than 6 months
• a full-time student on a postgraduate level course (RQF level 7 or above) that lasts 9 months or longer

If your postgraduate level course starts on or after 1 January 2024, it must be either:

• a PhD or other doctorate (RQF level 8)
• a research-based higher degree

Your dependants

A dependant partner or child is one of the following:

• your husband, wife or civil partner
• your unmarried partner
• your child under 18 years old - including if they were born in the UK during your stay

You’ll need to provide evidence of your relationship when you apply, for example:

• a marriage or civil partnership certificate for your partner
• a birth certificate for your child

Find out what other documents you can use to prove your relationship .

You’ll need to prove that your child is both:

• not married or in a civil partnership
• living with you, unless they’re living away from home in full-time education - for example, at boarding school or university

You’ll need to provide 2 of the following documents confirming their address:

• a bank statement
• credit card bills
• driving licence
• NHS registration document
• an official letter from their university or college

If your child pays you rent or upkeep, you’ll need to give details.

Money they need to support themselves

Your partner and child must each have a certain amount of money available to them. This is in addition to the money you must have to support yourself.

How much money they need depends on where you will be studying. They must have either:

• £845 a month (for up to 9 months) for courses in London
• £680 a month (for up to 9 months) for courses outside London

If you’re applying at the same time as your partner or child (you’re applying together as a family), you’ll need to prove you have both money to pay for your course and to support yourself and additional money for each of them.

If your partner or child is applying at a different time to you (they’re applying separately) they only need to prove they have money to support themselves.

You (or your partner or child) must have this money for at least 28 consecutive days. The end date of the 28 day period must be within 31 days of the date they apply for their visa.

If you have a student loan or financial sponsorship, you’ll need to provide evidence of this from your loan or sponsorship company. If your loan does not cover your partner or child, you’ll need to prove you have money to support them instead.

When they do not need to prove they have money to support themselves

Your partner or child does not need to prove they have this money if they’ve been in the UK with a valid visa for at least 12 months.

If you and your partner or child are from a country listed under the ‘differential evidence requirement’ and you’re applying at the same time, they do not need to prove they have money to support themselves.

However, they might be asked to provide this evidence before they get a decision on their application.

If they do need to provide it, they’ll be contacted by UK Visas and Immigration ( UKVI ) after they’ve submitted their application.

Apply outside the UK

Your partner and children must either:

apply online as your partner outside the UK

apply online as your child outside the UK

They’ll need your application number - you get it when you apply. This number is called a Global Web Form ( GWF ) or a Unique Application Number ( UAN ). You’ll find it on emails and letters from the Home Office about your application.

As part of their application, they’ll need to have their fingerprints and photograph taken at a visa application centre (to get a biometric residence permit).

They’ll have to collect their biometric residence permit within 10 days of when they said they’d arrive in the UK.

They may be able to pay to get their visa faster or use other services depending on which country they’re in - check with the visa application centre.

How long they can stay

If their application is successful, their visa will end on the same date as yours.

Apply inside the UK to extend or switch

Your partner or child can apply to extend or switch their visa either:

• at the same time as you apply to extend or switch your own visa
• at any time before their current visa expires

This includes children who have turned 18 during your stay.

Your partner or child cannot apply to switch in the UK if they have one of the following visas:

• a visit visa
• a short-term student visa
• a Parent of a Child Student visa
• a seasonal worker visa
• a domestic worker in a private household visa

Each person will need to pay:

• £490 for the visa
• the healthcare surcharge - check how much they’ll have to pay

They’ll need to have their biometric information (fingerprints and a photo) taken - there’s no fee for this.

How to apply

Your partner and child must apply online. They must either:

apply online as your partner inside the UK

apply online as your child inside the UK

As part of their application, they’ll be asked to make an appointment at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services ( UKVCAS ) service point to provide their biometric information (fingerprints and a photo).

They’ll also need to submit their supporting documents. They can:

• upload them into the online service
• have them scanned at their UKVCAS appointment

They must not travel outside of the UK, Ireland, the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man until they get a decision. Their application will be withdrawn if they do.

Getting a faster decision

They may be able to pay to get a faster decision - they’ll be told if they can when they apply.

Children born in the UK

If you have a child while you’re in the UK, they do not automatically become a British citizen .

You must apply for your child’s dependant visa if you want to travel in and out of the UK with them.

The form you fill in depends on whether your child is inside or outside the UK. Your child must either:

You’ll need to provide a full UK birth certificate for each child, showing the names of both parents.

You must apply for their dependant visa before they turn 18 if they want to stay in the UK.

Part of Study in the UK on a Student visa

Step 1 : check if this visa is right for you.

You can apply for a Student visa if you’re 16 or over and want to study on a further or higher education course in the UK.

• Check what you can and cannot do on this visa
• Check what courses you can study on this visa
• You are currently viewing: Check if you can bring your partner or children ('dependants') with you

If you're under 18 and you want to study at an independent school in the UK, you may be eligible for a Child Student visa instead.

• Check which visas you're eligible for

Step 2 : Prepare the evidence you need

• Check what documents you can use as evidence
• Prove your knowledge of the English language
• Check if you need a tuberculosis (TB) test

If you're doing a masters degree or above, you may need to apply for the Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate.

• Check if you need to apply for ATAS

Step 3 : Apply from outside the UK

• Apply from outside the UK £490

You'll need to prove your identity as part of your application.

You'll usually get a decision within 3 weeks.

• Find out if you can pay more to get a faster decision

or Apply from inside the UK

• Apply to extend if you're already in the UK on Student visa (or a Tier 4 (General) visa) £490
• Apply to switch to this visa if you're already in the UK £490

You'll usually get a decision within 8 weeks.

• You may be able to pay more to get a faster decision you’ll be told if you can when you apply

Step 4 : Check what you can bring into the UK with you

• Check what you can bring in your hand luggage
• Check what to do if you're bringing cash with you
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• Check what you need to show at the UK border

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• Find out how to get your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) if you were told you’d get one when you applied

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• Check if you can extend your visa

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I'm on a Student Visa, can I travel abroad during my studies?

Do I need a visa to travel?

You may need to obtain a visa before you travel. This will  depend on your destinatio n Y ou should check with the country's embassy in the UK whether you need a visa and how to apply. 

I'm travelling to Europe

What is a Schengen visa?

A Schengen visa is a single visa for travel to countries in Europe that have signed up to the Schengen agreement. The UK is not in the Schengen Zone. Certain nationals need a Schengen visa to travel in Europe.

You can find out if you'll require a Schengen visa on the Schengen visa webpages .

How can I apply for a Schengen visa?

If you're travelling to more than one country, you can apply online via the embassy where you'll spend the most time.  If you're spending an equal amount of time in each country, apply online via the embassy of the first country you plan to visit.

Important to know : You should always check the rules on the embassy website of the country where you plan to travel.  

What documents will I need to provide for my application?

Most countries will require:

• A valid passport & UK visa (BRP card)
• Schengen visa application form
• Evidence of travel plans & accommodation
• Travel/medical insurance
• Evidence of sufficient funds
• Confirmation of studies letter (request a travel letter as above)
• Evidence of paid visa fee

You should check the exact requirements with the embassy of the country you're applying to, as the requirements can vary slightly by country.  

For further guidance on travelling in Europe as an international student, please refer to the following guidance below:

• UKCISA guide on Schengen Visa
• www.schengenvisainfo.com​​​​​​

Take a look at our Immigration & Visa advice category for more articles on visa and immigration support throughout your studies at King’s.

What is a Travel Letter?

A travel letter is a document you can use to support your application for a visa to travel overseas while you are student. This confirms your enrolment status and is addressed to the embassy you are applying to for your visa.

Who needs a Travel Letter?

• Reading Weeks and assessment periods are included as term time.
• Any research student studying at King's on a visa, wishing to travel out of the UK at any time during the academic year.

What should I do before requesting a travel letter?

• Read the Foreign travel checklist on GOV.UK for further guidance on how to prepare for international travel, and to ensure you understand your responsibilities when travelling overseas.
• Check foreign travel advice for your chosen destination  before booking your flight, as this may be subject to change at short notice.

I’m planning to travel during term-time, how do I request a Travel Letter?

For the steps you need to take to request your letter, please refer to the guidance in the section  ' I need a letter to support my application to travel abroad ' within our article  I need to prove my term dates & course attendance .

I need to travel during term-time

If you need to travel during term-time, you’ll need to inform your academic department . This should not impact your current visa if:

• Approval is given from your academic department
• Your academic department is still able to effectively monitor your engagement with your studies in accordance with UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) and the university's attendance and engagement policy.

I want to apply for the Graduate Route visa

If you’re a current student wanting to apply for the Graduate Route, and your course was longer than 12 months, you must have held a Student visa for a minimum of 12 months. During those 12 months, all of your study must have taken place in the UK. If your course duration was 12 months or less, you must have held a Student visa for the whole length of your course, and all of your study must have taken place in the UK. UKVI will ask for your travel history as part of their eligibility checks for your Graduate Route application. Please note that we can't advise how UKVI will assess study in the UK criteria in applications and in relation to any periods spent outside the UK during your course.

Have a look at our article What is a Graduate visa? for more information.

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The Best Travel Insurance for Students

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Table of Contents

What does travel insurance for students cover?

How much does travel insurance for students cost, travel guard: best for budget travelers, world nomads: best for adventurers, allianz: best for premier travel benefits at a lower cost, geoblue navigator for students: best study abroad health insurance, more tips for purchasing study abroad travel insurance.

If you’re a student who’s planning to travel internationally or study abroad, it’s a good idea to go prepared with comprehensive student travel insurance. But where do you find plans tailored to your unique needs?

These companies offer some of the best options for travel insurance for students, whether you’re globe-trotting for a week, a semester or a whole year.

Student travel insurance can vary from plan to plan. But there are a few things you should look for whether you’re an exchange student, studying abroad or simply planning an international trip between classes.

Trip cancellation insurance : This coverage reimburses you for any prepaid, nonrefundable costs of your trip should you have to cancel for any unexpected circumstances covered by your selected policy. 

Travel medical coverage : If you become ill or get injured while traveling, travel medical coverage can help pay for medical expenses and even emergency travel back home.

Travel delay insurance : In the event of rescheduled or canceled flights that result in painfully long layovers, this coverage will reimburse you for personal items, food and lodging you may have to pay for as you wait for a rescheduled flight.

Delayed baggage : Just as it sounds, this coverage reimburses you for luggage (including necessities you might have to purchase while you wait for your luggage to arrive) if it’s delayed or lost by a travel provider in transit.

» Learn more: When to buy travel insurance

As with travel insurance for more general travelers, there are several factors that affect the cost of travel insurance for study abroad students and other young travelers, including:

Traveler age.

Overall trip cost.

Trip duration.

Specific coverage selected.

Because there are so many factors involved, and because every travel insurance company is different, it’s often wise to compare a number of plans to decide which is best for you and your travel plans. That said, these are some of the best student travel insurance options.

» Learn more: Best annual travel insurance this year

Travel Guard by AIG

• Offers last-minute coverage.
• Pre-Existing Medical Conditions Exclusion Waiver available at all plan levels.
• Plan available for business travelers.
• Cancel For Any reason coverage only available for higher-level plans, and only reimburses up to 50% of the trip cost.
• Trip interruption coverage doesn't apply to trips paid for with points and miles.

What Travel Guard covers

There are several options available from Travel Guard for travel insurance for students studying abroad or simply exploring on break: Deluxe, Preferred and Essential.

They all include trip cancellation and interruption, medical coverage, and lost or delayed baggage insurance. Bonus: They even come with dental coverage. Add-ons like car rental coverage and “cancel for any reason coverage” are also available with some plans.

There is also an annual plan available, but coverage automatically expires if any single trip lasts longer than 90 days, so it wouldn’t likely be sufficient for more than a semester abroad.

Multiple price points for a wide range of coverage options.

Dental coverage included.

24/7 emergency assistance available with all plans.

If you plan on participating in adventure sports, the Adventure Sports Bundle is only available as an add-on on some Preferred and Deluxe plans.

» Learn more: Read our full review of Travel Guard

World Nomads

• Travelers can extend coverage mid-trip.
• The standard plan covers up to $300,000 in emergency evacuation costs.
• Plans automatically cover 200+ adventurous activities.
• No Cancel For Any Reason upgrades are available.
• No pre-existing medical condition waivers are available.

What World Nomads covers

Designed for independent, often more adventurous travelers, World Nomads offers several travel insurance options for students of any age.

While plans may seem more expensive than some other options, it’s important to remember that these plans include medical treatment and evacuation if you are injured while participating in some adventure sports. Plans also cover medical expenses, trip cancellation and interruption, baggage loss and delay, and include 24/7 travel assistance.

Many adventure sports are covered.

Some plans include car rental coverage.

Dental is covered.

Pre-existing conditions aren’t covered.

» Learn more: Best adventure sports travel insurance

• Annual or single-trip policies are available.
• Multiple types of insurance available.
• All plans include access to a 24/7 assistance hotline.
• More expensive than average.
• CFAR upgrades are not available.
• Rental car protection is only available by adding the One Trip Rental Car protector to your plan or by purchasing a standalone rental car plan.

What Allianz covers

A well-known travel insurance company, Allianz offers a number of travel insurance plans that may appeal to students.

All plans include epidemic coverage, trip cancellation and interruption, medical and dental coverage, baggage loss and delay, and 24-hour assistance. And premium plans tend to offer similar coverage as other insurance companies but at a lower price.

There’s also an annual plan available called AllTrips, but it doesn’t cover individual trips longer than 45 consecutive days.

Includes epidemic coverage (including for COVID-19).

Covers 100% of prepaid costs if you cancel your trip for a covered reason.

The cost to change flights or other transportation is covered on some plans if you have to change or cancel bookings because of a covered reason.

Rental car coverage not included on any plan.

» Learn more: NerdWallet's Allianz review

• Flexible deductible options.
• Wide ranging medical coverage.
• Low prices for medical only needs.
• Lacks in traditional travel insurance coverage options such as trip Interruption, bag delays, etc.
• Better when paired with travel credit card insurance coverage.

What GeoBlue covers

Designed for students staying in one place for more than a week or even a whole semester, GeoBlue’s Navigator for Students plan is perfect for students studying abroad who are more concerned with health care coverage than travel-related benefits.

It’s designed more like traditional health insurance with deductibles, monthly payment plans and unlimited annual maximums when it comes to medical care. It covers medical care inside and outside the U.S., making it a good overall health insurance if you plan to travel back and forth. Travel vaccinations, emergency medical transportation and repatriation are even covered.

What’s not covered are more typical travel-related expenses like lost baggage, delayed flights and trip cancellation. But the medical coverage is so comprehensive that if you want travel-specific coverage, you could opt to purchase a more budget-friendly plan for each specific trip.

Unlimited annual maximum for medical benefits.

Sliding payment scale to customize your deductible-to-monthly premium payments.

Preventive care is covered.

Dental and vision benefits are extra.

Coverage for most travel-related snafus isn’t included.

» Learn more: GeoBlue travel insurance review : Is it worth the cost?

The best travel insurance for students studying abroad or traveling between semesters or even on holiday breaks is insurance that’s best suited to you and your travel plans.

Before you hit “Add to cart,” compare several plans, make sure to read the fine print and understand what’s covered (and, just as importantly, what’s not ). Select a plan that offers the coverage required to help you feel safe, secure and protected wherever you roam.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

1x-10x Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1x-2x Earn 2X points on Southwest® purchases. Earn 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare. Earn 2X points on internet, cable, and phone services, and select streaming. Earn 1X points on all other purchases.

50,000 Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

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Rail and Tube strikes in April and May 2024

21 March 2024

Industrial action on the London Underground and across the UK national rail network has been announced for a number of dates in April and May 2024. Please be aware that your travel may be disrupted.

Underground and rail staff have announced a new round of strikes to take place between Monday 8 April and Saturday 4 May 2024 as part of a long-running dispute. 

Strike action on the London Underground 

There will be two 24-hour strikes on the London Underground (Tube) network, on Monday 8 April and Saturday 4 May . It is likely that there will be significant disruption on these days, with many services not running. There may also be delays on the following days as services get back to normal. 

Strike action on the national rail network 

Rail workers have also announced a series of rolling one-day walkouts between 5 and 8 April.  

The following services will be affected: 

• Friday 5 April : Avanti West Coast, East Midlands Railway, West Midlands Trains, and CrossCountry 
• Saturday 6 April : Chiltern, GWR, LNER, Northern, and TransPennine 
• Monday 8 April : c2c, Greater Anglia, GTR Great Northern Thameslink, Southeastern, Southern/Gatwick Express, South Western Railway main line and depot drivers, and SWR Island Line. 

In addition to this, drivers will also refuse to work overtime from Thursday 4 to Saturday 6 April and from Monday 8 to Tuesday 9 April, which could lead to further disruption. 

Travelling to campus 

If you are coming into campus, please be aware that your journey may be disrupted and allow extra time to get to your destination. You can visit Transport for London ,  National Rail or the Citymapper app , which might be useful for planning alternative types of transport such as bicycle and scooter hire, walking, buses etc. 

Please do keep following the news and the National Rail website for the latest updates. 

Advice for students 

It is possible that some of your teaching or other activities will have to be rescheduled or moved online if our staff are unable to travel or need to prioritise childcare responsibilities. 

UCL will make every attempt to keep activities running for students, with student-facing staff asked to come in to work where possible. If you are coming into campus please allow extra time to get to your destination and use the websites detailed above to plan your transport. 

Keep a close eye on your UCL emails and look out for Moodle page announcements. 

Advice for staff 

If you are unable to get to work using alternative transport, you should let your line manager know as soon as possible. If transport strikes affect your ability to come into campus, you are welcome to work from home on the affected days, if your job lends itself to home working. 

Staff unable to work from home can agree flexible solutions with managers such as using TOIL or making up lost time where possible. If alternative arrangements cannot be found, staff should arrange to take annual leave or unpaid leave, in line with our Special Leave policy on travel and weather disruption. 

Students ‘take flight’ as preschool turns into 22 countries

PHILADELPHIA (KYW) - Preschoolers in Philadelphia got to travel around the world as their school transformed into an airport with 22 destinations.

Educators at Pequeños Pasos de ASPIRA Preschool turned the front office into a mock airport and each classroom into a different country – with 22 destinations in all – for a wealth of cultural education.

“We are traveling around the world because our mission is to create bilingual leaders,” said Erika Medina, the school’s director.

Dressed as tourists, students traveled from classroom to classroom with passports in hand to be stamped by staff during the two-day event.

The students learned about each country’s traditions, music and food. A mock rainforest and volcano were also available for the kids to explore.

“We just want the students to learn a little bit about their culture, about different Latino countries and not only Latino but around the world. We have China, Thailand and Egypt,” Medina said.

The event aimed to promote bilingual learning and future leadership.

“We want students to understand that we include everybody in our community,” Medina said.

Copyright 2024 KYW via CNN Newsource. All rights reserved.

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Campus travel and parking updates

The Transport Team have created the  Campus Travel Updates Page to help you plan your journey with information about planned travel disruptions that they have been made aware of.

Where possible they will aim to to provide advance notice on full or partial closures of our campus car parks and any local roads. Please be aware that the Transport Team are reliant on receiving information from third parties and this may affect the notice they are able to provide to users. This is a new process and will replace the use of notices within the campus car parks. Therefore we advise that you check this page regularly.

Refer to our  Planning your Journey page  for further advice on how to check, who to follow on social media or apps to download for disruptions on local transport networks and roads.