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  • Pre-arrival to the UK

Pre-arrival to the UK

Your guide to arriving and living in the UK for the first time.

What to expect and the local etiquettes and practices to be aware of.

Take a look at the university's COVID-19 information and FAQs for further guidance on travel and study. 

Pre-arrival to the UK 

Pre-travel requirements

You may need to apply for an Airport Transit Schengen Visa if you have a flight connection in a Schengen member state on your way to the UK. This is in addition to your UK visa, and if you require this type of visa you will be unable to board your flight without it.

There is further information the Schengen Visa website about which nationalities this applies to, as well as how to apply for the Airport Transit Schengen Visa.

Please note that the individual Schengen countries have added extra countries to the list of those who need an Airport Transit Visa when travelling through their airports, so it's important to check both the general list and the extra list of the country you will be travelling through.

What should I pack?

  • The weather in the UK can be changeable so remember to pack a variety of clothing suitable for warm, dry, wet and cold weather. You will definitely need a warm coat or jacket.
  • The dress code at the University of Brighton and BSSH is informal. Jeans, T-shirts, jumpers, sweatshirts, trainers and comfortable shoes are acceptable attire. And, of course, Brighton also has a wide range of shops for anything else you may need. Find more guidance on preparing for arrival to the UK.
  • Remember to bring your study essentials such as a pad, pens, paper, laptop, mobile phone and any chargers you need (for which you may need UK adapters – three-pin plug).
  • We would recommend packing important documents such as offer letters, passport and visa, CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies), finance or sponsorship documents, IELTS certificate and other test results, insurance details, medical records etc in your hand luggage.
  • If you need to bring medication with you please ensure you check the guidelines of your specific airline(s) regarding travelling with medication and how this should be packed. It is usually recommended that medications should be packed in hand luggage, together with a copy of your prescription and/or a cover letter from your doctor or hospital.

How much cash should I take with me?

  • You should avoid travelling with large amounts of cash in case it gets lost or stolen, but you should bring enough cash with you to cover your immediate needs (meals, travel, incidental expenses etc). Approximately £250 in cash and travellers’ cheques is the recommended amount to carry with you. Find more travel guidance and advice. 

What sort of food should I expect whilst living in the UK?

  • UK cuisine has many international influences as well as traditional and cultural options such as casseroles, pies, fish and chips, Sunday roast, a full English breakfast, sausage and mashed potato to name but a few.
  • There are a wide range of restaurants in Brighton to cater for a variety of tastes and cultures as well as international ingredients being available in many supermarkets and speciality shops.
  • There are also a number of food and beverage outlets on campus offering hot and cold food and drink options.
International students

On arrival to the UK 


What can I expect at the airport?

  • If you have travelled by plane to the UK you will be given a landing card - complete the card before you arrive at border control to save time.
  • Be prepared for queues at UK border control. If you are from outside the European Union (EU) ensure you take the Non-EU entrance. You may be required to have an interview with a member of staff from UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) This might involve answering some questions in English and holding a short conversation without the aid of an interpreter or family member. If the immigration staff are not satisfied that your English abilities meet your course requirements you may be denied access to the UK and will have to return to your home. 
  • After collecting your luggage and making your way through customs you will reach the Arrivals Hall. If you are arriving as part of a group of students undertaking a bespoke course, you will be met at the airport by a University of Brighton BSSH representative.
  • The representative will escort you through the airport. This will be a chance to use the rest room before you are escorted to your coach.
  • Your luggage will be placed on board the coach and you will be taken to a collection point to meet your host family. The host family will then escort you to their home

What are my options for travelling in the UK?

  • There are a variety of options for travelling around the UK, with an extensive network of road, rail and cycle paths. Public transport in Brighton is well served by both bus and train with some discounts available for students. 
  • Some travel companies also offer discounts on fares for students.

How should I behave whilst living in a host family?

  • When staying with a host family it is important to be mindful of the fact that you are staying in someone’s home and to be respectful of this. 
  • You are expected to share the facilities along with the other residents and to fit in with their lifestyle and any house rules which they set. 
  • If you are unsure of anything, speak to your host so that they can help you to settle in and feel as comfortable as possible.

Brighton Pavilion

Your first day at BSSH 

How do I find the Falmer campus?

  • The University of Brighton Falmer campus is located approximately seven kilometres from Brighton city centre and is accessible by train, bus, car or bicycle.

What will happen on my first day?

  • You should report to Checkland Building, Falmer campus on your first day.
  • Please remember to bring your passport and original copies of certificates and test results which were required to meet your offer.
  • A member of the BSSH Support Team will guide you through the university online registration process. They will also assist with any questions you may have regarding accommodation.
  • You will meet your tutor(s) and be guided through your course details, any important trips and dates as well as general course guidelines.
  • During your first week you will have a guided tour of all university facilities including the Open Learning Centre, as well as a tour of Brighton city centre and well-known landmarks.
Find your course
Open day in the foyer of Checkland building at Falmer campus

Visa and immigration guidance 

Where can I find support?

  • You are welcome to drop into the Admin Office to discuss any visa or immigration issues with the BSSH Support Team. We are located in the Checkland Building room D331. Further information regarding visas can be located on this page.
  • For any questions or queries you may have regarding life in the UK, please contact us on learnenglish@brighton.ac.uk.
Student laying on the grass at Falmer campus
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