The Indian Student’s Arrival Checklist: What to Do in Your First 72 Hours in the UK

hello00721
5 days ago
3 min read

Arriving in the UK as a student is a moment that will be etched in your memory forever. But for most Indian students, that first 72 hours in London are a blur — of new systems, new climate, and plenty of questions.

In fact, 80% of overseas students feel anxious in their initial setup (QS, 2023). That's the exact reason why having a checklist makes all the difference — especially for the best London student accommodation, the arrangement of daily needs, and settling in with confidence.

Let's do it step by step.

Day 1: Land, Settle, Connect

1. Get a UK SIM Card

You'll need to be on the Internet from the moment you arrive. Look for kiosks at Heathrow or big stores like Tesco, EE, or Vodafone. If you're relocating to your student flat London studio or shared student flat in London, having mobility from day one is essential.

2. Arrive at Your Accommodation

Whether you’ve booked through Acolyte Living or are exploring private student housing in London, confirm your booking, collect keys, and take photos of your new space. Many students move into affordable student accommodation London options close to their university or public transport.

3. Essentials Run

Stock up on groceries and toiletries from Sainsbury’s, Lidl, or Aldi. Don’t forget:

A UK power adapter
SIM activation
Light bedding, if not included

Day 2: Bank, Documents & Setup

4. Collect Your BRP (Biometric Residence Permit)

Attend the address in your visa letter within 10 days of arriving in the UK. Your BRP is needed to open a bank account and confirm your immigration status.

5. Open a UK Bank Account

Most students choose Monzo, NatWest, or HSBC. You’ll need your BRP, passport, university admission letter, and proof of student accommodation in London (contract or confirmation letter).

6. Register with a GP (Doctor)

This is important for healthcare access. You’ll need a UK address, which can be your London student house, student apartment, or flatshare in London.

Day 3: Explore, Connect, Relax

7. Get to Know the Neighbourhood

Take a walk. Find the closest café, bus stop, convenience store, and campus route. If you’ve booked via Acolyte Living, your London accommodation will likely be minutes from your university and student-friendly hangouts.

8. Meet Flatmates & Join Orientation

Your first few conversations in the student flats London offers could lead to lifelong friendships. Say hello, join your uni’s welcome week, and attend international student mixers.

9. Set Up Your University Login

Access your portal, download the student app, and check your schedule. Many students staying in London rent apartment student setups find it helpful to organize transport cards (like Oyster) and make a weekly plan.

Bonus Tip: Don’t Worry — You’re Not Alone

Beginning in the UK is exciting but full of minuscule details that are often overlooked. Which is why at Acolyte Living, we give you not just a room — we offer clarity.

Whether it's online tours of Indian rooms or total arrival preparation assistance, we guide you in choosing not just a student room, but the right experience — customized for your university, budget, and comfort.