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.