After you arrive
Information on important tasks you should complete soon after your arrival to Edinburgh. Your Course Coordinator is available to assist you throughout your induction.
Banking
You may find it helpful to open a UK bank account to help you manage your money. You will not normally be allowed to open a bank account until you arrive in the UK, although you should check with international banks in your home country. Unlike UK students, your account will not offer an overdraft facility.
To open a bank account, you will need to bring the following information:
- Photo ID (passport, driving licence, or University of Edinburgh student card)
- The original copy of your unconditional offer letter from the University of Edinburgh
- Address verification (you will be shown how to obtain this at induction)
- You may be asked for proof of both your home address and the address at which you will be staying in Edinburgh
- You may also be required to provide a reference letter from your bank in your home country, written in English, providing details on your credit status
- International students will also require a bank letter of introduction from Accommodation Services
How much cash to bring
It can take three weeks to open a bank account during busy periods at the start of term. Bring sufficient funds for the first five weeks after arriving in the UK. This can be in the form of cash or travellers’ cheques which you can easily cash in at any bank
It is advisable before leaving your home country to look at the websites of some of the main banks to see what documentation they require.
Police registration
After arriving in Edinburgh, some international students may need to register with the police. If you need to register, this requirement will be written in your passport.
You normally need to register within seven days of your arrival in the United Kingdom. The HSS International Foundation Programme Coordinator will help you to arrange an appointment during your induction.
What do I need to bring?
- Passport
- 2 x Passport sized photos
- Registration fee (£34)
Health
You should register with a doctor (a General Practitioner (GP)) soon after your arrival so that you can receive treatment quickly and easily. Part of your induction period will involve registering with a GP at the University Health Service.
The University Health Service provides comprehensive medical care under the National Health Service (NHS). If you become ill after arrival in the UK, you may obtain NHS treatment without charge, provided you are registered on a recognised course of study.
Dentists and opticians
Dentists and opticians make a charge for treatment and details of these services are available from the Advice Place. Note that you do have to register separately with these services for treatment and that registration with a GP Practice for NHS treatment does not automatically allow you free dental and optical care. Find details of the NHS Dentist nearest to your home by visiting the NHS 24 website.
Student Disability Service
Students with a disability, including those with specific learning disabilities, are warmly welcomed to the University of Edinburgh.
The Student Disability Service offers information and advice on all aspects of support for disabled students and can help you plan your studies at Edinburgh. If you think you are eligible for adaptations, adjustments to teaching or assessment practice, or personal assistance (e.g. a note taker or proof-reader), it is essential that you contact the Student Disability Service as soon as possible.
This article was published on Mar 22, 2013