International students guide

Moving to a new country can be both exciting and challenging. At HudLets, we're dedicated to making your transition as smooth as possible. With our safe accommodation options close to campus, you'll soon feel right at home. Here are some tips to help you settle in and begin your journey on the right foot. Before you arrive We recommend arriving at least a week before your course begins. This gives you time to familiarise yourself with Huddersfield's town centre, settle in, and prepare for this exciting new chapter in your life. To avoid any travel issues, ensure you have your visa and important documents such as your acceptance letter and passport. It's also wise to have some British pounds in cash in case of delays in opening a bank account. Upon arrival When you touch down in the UK, getting the essentials sorted should be your main priority. Don't forget to grab a SIM card for staying connected on the move. Conveniently, you can pick one up right at the airport upon your arrival, with options from network providers like Vodafone, VOXI, and Lyca readily available. Now, onto making your new place feel like home sweet home. Essential items such as bedding, kitchenware, toiletries, and other comforts are a must. For a wallet-friendly approach, consider checking out local charity shops for second-hand kitchenware. Alternatively, stores like, The Range, B&M, Poundland and Primark offer affordable options to deck out your new space just the way you like it. Banking Opening a UK student bank account is essential to avoid extra fees. National banks like Barclays, HSBC, and Santander have branches in the town centre. Transport Huddersfield is well-equipped with excellent public transportation options, making getting around a breeze. With services like Firstbus and trainline readily available for bookings, exploring the town and its surrounding areas is incredibly convenient. For those looking to save some pennies, investing in a student bus pass or a railcard for discounted fares is a smart move. Health and Well-being Ensure you register with a local General Practitioner (GP) as soon as possible. The university’s student health service or local NHS practice can provide medical support. In case of emergencies, dial 999 for immediate assistance. Mental Health Support Adjusting to a new country can be overwhelming. It's okay to seek help if you're feeling homesick or stressed. Huddersfield offers various support services through the Advice Centre ., which is always available to assist you Exploring the town Huddersfield has everything a student might need. There are numerous cafés, restaurants, and shops. Use the time before your lectures to explore the town and discover your favourite spots. Huddersfield's diverse community means you'll find many international supermarkets. For example, Mackinley’s is a Caribbean store with fresh goods and spices, and Dong Dong is an oriental shop with familiar Asian products. Additionally, there are local diverse food places representing different communities, such as Javid supermarket and Khadim Super Store, which specialise in South Asian groceries. You can also explore other local favourites like Medina Store and Pakeeza supermarket or a variety of Middle Eastern and Eastern European ingredients. So, there's no need to bring your entire pantry. Making Friends Making friends while studying is crucial. Not only will you form valuable future connections, but you may also meet people who become lifelong friends. Avoid spending all your time alone in your accommodation—get out and meet other students. A great way to make friends is by joining societies and sports groups through Huddersfield Student's Union. The Union is vibrant and active, organising various events, workshops, and social gatherings throughout the year. Engaging in these student-led activities is an excellent way to have fun, make new friends, and explore the town without spending much. Look out for posters, social media posts or the events page to find out about upcoming events and get involved.