If you are arriving internationally, we strongly advise you to:
Travel arrangements
Should you wish to take a taxi to your destination then you can book one online – giving your flight details so that the taxi company can monitor your flight for any delays or changes and meet you accordingly.
When you arrive, you should be travelling directly to your new accommodation and not make any stops so it's important to ensure you have food and supplies when you get to your new home. If you are isolating in a hotel, you will be provided with essentials like food.
If you are in our halls of residence, you will have received a separate communication about UniKitOut which has designed a range of packs to give you all the essentials you need in one go. As an MDX student, you'll also receive 10% off and they accept international Paypal payments, making it easier for you to arrange before you arrive in the UK. You can order from UniKitOut if you live in private accommodation too.
Moving to a new country is an exciting time. It’s very important that you are aware of how you will access healthcare services when you arrive so that you can be supported if you do become unwell at any point.
Having an internet connection is crucial for staying connected with family and friends as well as accessing your university emails and online learning resources.
If you are staying in MDX halls of residence, your WiFi will already be arranged.
If you are staying in private accommodation, it is important that you have your WiFi organised before arriving. This is because some providers will send an engineer to fit the router for you and this needs to be arranged before you arrive so that you do not have to physically meet the engineer.
The most common WiFi providers in England are:
Moving to another country is an exciting opportunity, but it’s completely normal to feel homesick.
Talking on the phone or online with friends and family will be important as you settle into life in the UK and we also have a great range of activities and social events for you take part in.
Organising your day into different activities will help prevent you from becoming bored during self-isolation. The below is an example schedule which may help you plan your own day:
| Time | Task | Guidance |
|---|---|---|
| By 9.00am | Wake up and eat breakfast | Eat a balanced breakfast, hydrate, make your bed and tidy your living space |
| 9.00am to 10.00am | Exercise / physical activity | Try an activity from our Sport and Recreation team |
| 10.00am to 12.00pm | Academic time | Prepare for your course by doing your reading and speaking to your new course mates |
| 12.00pm to 1.00pm | Lunch time | Eat a balanced meal and stay hydrated |
| 1.00pm to 3.00pm | Academic time | Prepare for your course by doing your reading and speaking to your new course mates |
| 3.00pm to 5.00pm | Speak to family and friends | Connect with your loved ones virtually |
| 5.00pm to 7.00pm | Cook dinner | Eat a balanced meal and stay hydrated |
| 7.00pm to 9.00pm | Relax / down time | Why not join an MDXSU society to meet new people and get involved in a new hobby |
| 9.00pm to 10,00pm | Prepare for bed | Stay away from screens to get a good nights sleep. |
MDXSU offer free, confidential and independent advice, separate to the University. They can support you in a range of academic issues and provide guidance on non-academic issues - you can also submit an online enquiry.
MDXSU have a specific community for International students which is open to any student not from the UK, whether you’re from the EU, EEA or further afield!
Join the group or find them on Facebook
MDXSU also supports over 80 societies, from general interest groups to faith groups and cultural groups which are all open and available for you to join.
If you can’t see a group that takes your fancy, MDXSU will support you to start your own.
There are always events going on which can support you with your development, with your wellbeing and just to meet new people!
Self-help reading, support information and wellbeing platform
It's important as a university student to get into self-care habits. This means taking proactive steps to look after your physical and mental health. Find out more on the health and wellbeing pages.
Counselling and Mental Health team
Find out more about a one-time virtual call back with a member of the Counselling & Mental Health team, or to refer yourself for longer term support.
We also provide Information on crisis and emergency mental health support, including telephone and text services.
If you feel unable to keep yourself safe, it is very important that you call 999 and explain this so that you can be supported. You should also advise that you are self-isolating.
Student Welfare Advice team
If you are worried about paying your bills, getting access to essentials like food, or any other welfare concerns, please email the Student Welfare Advice Team, call 020 8411 3008 or start an online query.
Care and Concern team
If you experience or witness any form of bullying, harassment, discrimination or hate incidents/crime, report this to the team to get support.
Should you need any support or have any concerns with your accommodation or housing when you arrive in the UK, it’s important to know who you can talk to.
If you’re staying in MDX halls of residence, you might find it helpful to look through our housing FAQs which includes useful contact information.
If you’re staying in private rented accommodation and have any difficulties, try to speak to your landlord/landlady or managing agent directly. If you have any issues with this, please email the Student Welfare Advice Team, call 020 8411 3008 or start an online query. They will be able to support you with your concerns.
External support for students staying in private rented accommodation can also be found through the Citizens Advice Bureau who provide confidential, free advice on a range of matters.
There’s lots to consider when opening a bank account in the UK. Make sure you do your research and find the right bank account for your circumstances.
Read our advice guide on student banking, and this article on the Top 20 Bank Accounts for International Students.
Some banks allow you to open an account in the UK from abroad, which may suit your circumstances if you wish to get set up before you arrive in the UK.
For any more information, please email the Student Welfare Advice Team, call 020 8411 3008 or start an online query. They will be able to advise you of your options.
Visit our 'On arrival in the UK' page to ensure your first few days and weeks in the UK are as smooth as possible.
