Moving to Belfast to Study? Tips for International Students
Belfast is widely considered a bustling and vibrant European city that offers many things to see and do. If you are planning to study in Belfast or you have been offered a place at QUB or UUJ, moving to a new city can seem very scary!
But don’t worry, our top tips will help you prepare for the move and make the transition as smooth as possible.
Find out About Scholarships and Funding.
As well as self funding your university place, there may be scholarships and funding available to take the pressure off your finances. QUB offers a wide range of information on scholarships for students from all around the world- check out International Scholarships at QUB for more information. Likewise, Ulster University offers information on scholarships and funding at International Scholarships for UU, where you can also find out about applying to Ulster University, entry requirements, English language requirements, fees & finance as well as visas and immigration.
Organise your Student Visa
The best way to find out about your student visa and other requirements is through the universities themselves. Here you will Find out whether you need a visa to study in the UK, which type of visa you need and how to apply for one. Both QUB and UUJ will want you to transition from your home country to your life in Northern Ireland as easily as possible and will offer the advice and you need!
Organise your Student Accommodation
Get your student accommodation sorted out before you come to Belfast. QUB and UU offers first years university student accommodation in halls of residence (known more commonly as halls) or houses belonging to the University themselves. If you choose to stay in halls, you can choose to have your own room or to share. University offers a great opportunity for meeting new people and making new friends!
Sort out Paper Work
The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) entitles you to use the NHS if you become unwell or have an accident while you are studying in Belfast. The exact amount you pay depends on the length of the visa you’re given and a visa may last longer than your course of study.
You have to pay the IHS even if you do not use the NHS or even if you have your own private health insurance. To find out more go to the IHS Website
Get Ready for Belfast Weather
Ever hear of the phrase ‘Four Seasons in one day’? Well that’s a good summary of Belfast weather- some days it can be windy, rainy, sunny and warm! Our winters here can be cold and wet, so make sure to pack warm clothing for the cold spells.
Learn to Cook
There are many places to eat yummy food in Belfast but you will save money by making your own meals. Before you venture over, make sure you have a few recipes under your belt so you don’t need to rely on takeaways!
Get a Student Bank Account
There are many options and offers available for student banking. Many will offer perks and overdraft facilities. Check out websites like Money Saving Expert to help find out which bank offers the best deal for you.
Find out about Belfast- Where to Go and How to Get There!
Belfast is a compact city and there are many ways to get around. If you are staying in QUB halls of residence, public transport is available opposite the entrance to the halls as well as at the university itself. Go to Translink for more information or contact QUB to get maps and more information.
Belfast has lots to do and see – and there are easy links to other parts of Northern Ireland as well as Dublin and Republic of Ireland. So whether you want to find more about the Titanic, Game of Thrones, Irish history.. there is something here for everyone!
University is daunting and exciting for everyone. But don’t worry- whatever uni you choose, they will do their best to help you settle in, find your feet and make new friends.
Moving doesn’t need to be stressful. At GoBox Self Storage, we offer great value, door-to-door storage for students in the Greater Belfast area. Our student storage service has been specially designed to make your move simple, secure and convenient..it’s as simple as 1,2,3!
How Does Self Storage Work?
WE DELIVER – order online and we deliver boxes and packing materials next business day
YOU PACK – we collect your boxes and storage items on your preferred collection day
WE STORE –we store your stuff securely and return it to your new address at the start of term
We Deliver, You Pack, We Store
Packing, moving, decluttering or simply finding space for personal items doesn’t need to be stressful. At GoBox Self Storage, we offer great value self storage in the Greater Belfast area. Our storage services have been specially designed to make your move simple, secure and convenient..it’s as simple as 1,2,3!
To book your storage solution, go to:
W: https://goboxselfstorage.com/student-storage/
E: [email protected]
T: 028 9600 5005
NOTICE: We cannot store Food, Flammable Liquids (including Aerosols, Paints & Varnishes), Firearms or Illegal Substances.
