Your study-abroad journey officially begins the moment your plane touches down in the United Kingdom.
The excitement is real but so is the confusion if you don’t know what to expect in your first 48 hours.
This guide walks you step-by-step from the airport to your campus, ensuring you settle in confidently, safely, and stress-free.
- Arrival at the Airport
Once you land, here’s what to expect:
a. Border Control/Immigration
Be prepared to show:
• Passport
• Student Visa
• CAS letter
• Proof of funds (if requested)
• Accommodation details
• Return/onward travel (rarely requested)
The officer may ask simple questions like:
• “What course are you studying?”
• “Which university are you attending?”
• “Where will you be staying?”
Answer confidently, they just want to confirm your purpose.
b. Collecting Your Luggage
Follow signs to Baggage Claim.
Use a trolley if needed, they are usually free in major UK airports.
c. Customs Check
There are three lanes:
• Green: Nothing to declare
• Red: Goods to declare
• Blue: Arrivals from EU (not relevant to you)
If you’re carrying Nigerian food items, make sure they are permitted (dry items only).
- Getting a UK SIM Card
Do this before leaving the airport.
Options available at most airports:
• giffgaff
• EE
• Vodafone
• O2
• Three
Getting a SIM early helps you:
• Connect to WiFi
• Use maps to navigate
• Call your accommodation
• Book transportation
- Getting From the Airport to Your City or Campus
Depending on your university location, you may use:
a. Train
Fast and reliable, great for:
• London → Birmingham
• London → Manchester
• London → Leeds
• Manchester → Liverpool
• Edinburgh → Glasgow
b. Coach (Cheapest Option)
National Express and Megabus are student-friendly and affordable.
c. Taxi / Uber / Bolt
Best for:
• Night arrivals
• Heavy luggage
• Short distance to accommodation
Tip: Avoid random drivers, make sure to always use official airport taxis or apps.
- Arrival at Your Accommodation
Once you get to your accommodation:
a. Check in with your passport
Most student accommodations require:
• Passport
• Booking confirmation
• Payment proof
• Reference number
b. Inspect the Room
Take photos/videos before unpacking.
This protects you during deposit refunds.
c. Collect Necessary Items
Your accommodation team may give you:
• Key card or fob
• Welcome pack
• WiFi login details
• Laundry room access
• Safety instructions
- First Grocery Run : Essentials Only
Within the first few hours, visit a store near you.
Affordable options include:
• Aldi
• Lidl
• Tesco
• Sainsbury’s
• Asda
• Iceland
Buy basics ONLY:
• Water
• Bread
• Eggs
• Milk
• Rice/pasta
• Snacks
• Toiletries
• Cleaning wipes
Save big shopping for later after you settle in.
- Setting Up Your Room
To make your space feel like home:
• Make your bed
• Arrange your desk
• Hang clothes
• Set up chargers
• Light cleaning
• Unpack slowly, don’t rush
A tidy room helps calm travel stress.
- Explore the Area Around You
Step outside and familiarize yourself with:
• Bus stops
• Local shops
• Nearest pharmacy
• Nearest train station
• ATMs
• Food places
• Parks and walk routes
Knowing your surroundings boosts your confidence.
- Day 2 : Administrative Tasks to Complete
Your second day is for settling your life in the UK.
a. Register at Your University
You may need to:
• Submit your passport
• Attend a welcome session
• Collect your student ID card
• Finalize your course registration
• Confirm your timetable
• Attend induction events
Make this a priority.
b. Open a UK Bank Account
Popular student-friendly options include:
• Monzo
• Revolut
• Barclays
• NatWest
• HSBC
You’ll need:
• Passport
• BRP (if issued later)
• Proof of address
• Student letter from your university
c. Collect Your BRP (If Applicable)
If your BRP collection point is:
• At the university → follow their instructions
• At the post office → go with your passport + decision letter
d. Download Important Apps
• Trainline (transportation)
• Google Maps
• Uber/Bolt
• NHS GP registration
• University portal apps
• Banking app
- Don’t Forget to Rest and Hydrate
Jet lag is real. Your first 48 hours are packed, but take time to:
• Shower
• Eat well
• Sleep early
• Drink lots of water
Your body needs time to adjust.
- Stay Connected and Safe
• Inform your family when you arrive
• Share your address with trusted people
• Avoid wandering late at night
• Keep your passport in a safe place
• Monitor your spending
You’re in a new country, stay aware but not afraid.
Final Words from EN Global Education
Your first 48 hours may feel overwhelming, but with the right guidance, everything becomes smoother.
And remember you’re not alone.
We support you from:
• School application
• Admission
• Visa processing
• Pre-departure guidance
• To settling in the United Kingdom
If you’re planning to join the May or September 2026 UK intake, our experienced team is ready to assist you step-by-step.
