3 Tips to Prepare for a UK Education

For Malaysians planning to study in the United Kingdom (UK), the journey might seem daunting and complicated. However, there are some things you can do to prepare as early as possible like enrolling in an international school with UK connections to make it easier to get into a UK university.

However, the journey does not stop at just securing a letter of offer. Preparing for the practical aspects of moving to a new country is just as important. Here are 3 tips to help you get ready for the next steps in your UK education journey.

Preparing for your visa application

Obtaining a student visa is the first and most critical step when preparing for study in the UK – for most Malaysian students, a Tier 4 (General) student visa is required. The process can be time-consuming, and any mistakes or delays can jeopardise the ability to start the course on time. Typically, the fee to process and grant a student visa starts from RM 2,000 and above.

To ensure smooth processing, kickstart your UK visa application at least three months in advance. The UK Visa Application Centre in Kuala Lumpur offers a standard visa processing time of three weeks, but delays can occur, especially during busy periods for UK higher education applications. For those pressed for time, opting for priority or super-priority visa services that costs an additional RM 1,300 can expedite the UK visa application process.

In addition to that, ensure that all eligibility requirements are met, which include obtaining an offer letter from a recognised UK institution and providing proof of English language proficiency such as International English Language Testing System (IELTS) and Test for English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). Don't forget to prepare essential documentation like Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS), proof of funds such as bank statements, and necessary health certificates such as medical screening and tuberculosis tests.

Securing UK accommodation

One of the most critical aspects of preparing for UK education is securing suitable accommodation. As soon as you receive your university offer, it's important to begin researching and exploring UK accommodation options to ensure you have a place to stay that suits your needs such as proximity to grocery stores, university facilities and transportation options. Whether you opt for university-managed accommodation or choose private housing, finding the right place to live is essential for making a smooth transition to life in the UK.

On-campus accommodation

Securing accommodation on-campus offers several advantages, especially for first-year students who are new to the country. Most UK universities provide on-campus housing or university-managed accommodation, which is generally located close to academic buildings. This makes it easier for students to attend classes and participate in university life such as societies, sports and events. This type of accommodation provides a convenient, safe, and community-oriented environment, allowing students to focus on their studies without the added stress of managing off-campus housing. Additionally, university accommodation typically includes utility bills, internet, and basic services, making it a hassle-free option for international students.

Off-campus accommodation

However, if you prefer independence, private housing off-campus may be a better fit for you. Start exploring options as soon as you receive your university offer to secure the best deal. When considering off-campus accommodation, you may choose to rent or purchase your own property. Renting is good for short term - make sure to thoroughly review the tenancy agreement and consider the location’s proximity to your university and the UK education system requirements.

If you have plans to continue to stay in the UK post studies, purchasing a property may be the better option. Depending on how central you want to be to the city centre, you can explore various types of properties ranging from high-rise apartments to landed houses in suburban areas.

Planning your finances in advance

Financial planning is a crucial aspect of preparing for UK education. Ensuring that you have all travel essentials ready and seamless access to funds upon your arrival can significantly ease the transition into life in a new country. For example, you would need to account for transport costs from the airport as well as short term necessities for the few days such as groceries and toiletries.

One of the first financial steps is to open a bank account, allowing you to manage your expenses more effectively while studying in the UK.

Local UK bank account

While it’s advisable for you to open a local UK bank account, the process can be challenging if you are still in Malaysia, primarily due to the need for a UK residential address. Without a bank account, you may face difficulties when paying rent, covering day-to-day expenses, or receiving money transfers from your families. Most UK banks require you to present proof of a local address, which can only be obtained after securing accommodation. This can result in delays and financial stress during the initial weeks of settling into the UK.

Multicurrency account

To overcome this challenge, you can plan ahead by opening a multicurrency account before traveling to the UK. This will allow you to manage your finances through a mobile app and make payments in Great Britain Pound (GBP) the moment you arrive in the UK. Parents can also transfer funds directly into this account in GBP, minimising the risks associated with fluctuating exchange rates. This setup ensures that you have a peace of mind, knowing you can easily access funds without the immediate pressure of opening a local UK bank account.

Accumulate GBP beforehand

Besides that, consider setting aside a fund for unforeseen expenses and emergencies, ideally in GBP, to avoid currency fluctuations. A dual currency linked investment will allow you to accumulate GBP at favorable interest rates in preparation for large expenses relating to your UK education. You can do so by choosing your preferred currency at a selected exchange rate and place your investment at your desired tenure (1 week to 2 months).

Get ready and plan ahead

Navigating the financial aspects of education abroad can be daunting. However, careful financial planning and will help ensure you avoid unnecessary stress relating to UK education.

💡 The information provided above is purely for educational purposes.