Getting your visa sorted is one thing, managing money for your first months in the UK is another. Here's a quick, practical guide to what actually comes next.
Open a UK Bank Account Fast
Do this in your first week. You'll need your passport, your visa status, and a 'bank letter' from your university confirming your enrolment and address. Barclays, HSBC, NatWest and Lloyds all offer student accounts, but appointments fill up fast in September. Monzo or Starling let you open an account from your phone in a day or two, a genuinely useful stopgap. See our full bank account guide.
Money for Your First Month: What It Actually Costs
Beyond your visa's monthly maintenance figure, expect one-off setup costs: a deposit if not prepaid, kitchen and bedding basics (£100-£200), a SIM card, and a transport pass. University halls usually bundle bills in, private rentals often don't. See our full cost of living breakdown by city.
National Insurance and Working Legally
You need a National Insurance number before you can legally work. Check your visa paperwork first, some students get it automatically, or apply directly via GOV.UK. Most Student visas allow up to 20 hours of work a week during term, campus jobs are usually the easiest to land as a new arrival.
If Things Get Tight
Every university has a student support or hardship fund team, contact them directly rather than letting a shortfall spiral. They deal with this regularly and can often help with emergency funding or a payment plan.
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Money & First Months
Bank accounts, National Insurance, and real budgeting once you land in the UK.
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