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International Postgraduate Taught: First few days

There's often a lot happening during the first few days of term and this checklist can help you make sure you cover the essential activities.

First few days checklist

1. Move in

If you have been allocated UCL accommodation you will receive emails from accommodation letting you know when you can move in. 

2. Collect your ID card

You will need to collect your ID card to be able to access everything UCL has to offer. You will be able to collect your ID card once you have been fully enrolled. The email confirming your enrolment will contain information on how to collect this.

Your ID card is also used for registering your attendance at face-to-face teaching. Check out Register UCL to learn more.

3. Collect your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)

If you are coming to the UK on a Tier 4 Student visa, you'll need to collect your BRP within your first 10 days in the UK. Find out more about your Biometric Residence Permit.

4. Get your arrival and/or Erasmus forms signed (if this applies to you)

If you are studying at UCL as an affiliate student you may have an arrival form, Erasmus Placement form, or Erasmus Learning Agreement form which needs to be signed.

Your Erasmus Placement form or your arrival form can be signed electronically. You can do this by submitting an enquiry to askUCL and uploading the form as an attachment. Log into askUCL.

Your Erasmus Learning Agreement form needs to be signed by your department. Please contact your department for assistance.

5. Make sure you have access to Portico, Moodle and your UCL emails

  • Portico hosts several essential services and it is important you have full access once you have completed pre-enrolment. 
  • Information from your department and from central UCL teams will be sent to your UCL email account, so it is important to check it regularly. 
  • Moodle is UCL's virtual learning environment, which houses important information on your programme of study. You should check to see if your Moodle account is set up correctly. 

If you have any problems please contact IT services. We recommend the Live Chat Feature for account and password queries. 

6. Get a UK SIM card

Learn more about how to set up a UK SIM card and whether your phone will be compatible. 

A UK sim card is needed to enable a GP or vaccination centre to call you or send you appointment reminders and for you to call:

  • 111 the non-emergency NHS helpline
  • 119 for Covid advice and enquiries

7. Set up a UK bank account

Setting up a student bank account will pay off by the end of term. It is also a good idea to think about planning your budget. For guidance on setting up a UK bank account as an international student please see this page.

8.  Attend an International Student Safety Seminar

The International Student Safety Seminars cover safety around campus, in London, at night and online frauds and scams.

9. Attend welcome and induction events

Events welcoming you to campus and inducting you to UCL will be happening both online and in-person across the first few days. Find out what's on across UCL and at your Students' Union.

10. Register with a doctor (GP)

It is very important you are registered with a local GP whilst you study at UCL so that you have access to healthcare if you need it. Learn more about registering with a GP.

11. Look into student discounts

Make the most of your money by exploring student discounts. 
All students on a programme lasting longer than 12 weeks are eligible to get a TOTUM card. This grants you access to a wide range of discounts and services. 

Other sites like UNiDAYS and Student Beans can also offer helpful discounts.