International Pre-Arrival Guide - September 2026

Your guide to studying in the UK Welcome to Leeds Trinity University

Welcome from the International team!

To help you settle into your new home and life in the UK, the International team have put together this guide.

Here you can find out key information you may need as an international student, including steps you should take to prepare for life in the UK, key documents you must bring with you, tips to help to adjust to a new culture, and more.

Make sure to read the information carefully and to keep the guide for reference throughout your studies at Leeds Trinity. Whilst some information may not seem relevant right now, you may need to refer back to it when you arrive and during your time on your campus.

We look forward to getting to know you and we hope you have a fantastic time as a student in Leeds!

Contents Preparing for your move 4 Your first steps 5

The essentials

6

Your packing checklist

7 Student accommodation

Student life in the UK 10 Your new home 12 Travelling in the UK 13 Working in the UK 14 Getting connected 15 Student Support 16 Culture shock 18 Religion, festivals and tradition 20 Student profiles

Managing your money 22 Paying your tuition fees 24 Budgeting 25 Shopping

Preparing for your move We know that starting university can be overwhelming, especially when you are not studying in your home country. In this section, discover the key steps you need to take to prepare for student life in the UK, including information about visas, healthcare, packing, arriving in the UK, and university accommodation.

Your first steps Once you have received your offer to study at Leeds Trinity, follow the steps below to prepare for your arrival: Check whether you need a visa and complete the student visa process, if required Complete your provisional registration online via e:Vision: evision.leedstrinity.ac.uk Complete the international student arrivals form online via the Leeds Trinity website: leedstrinity.ac.uk/international/preparingfor-university/travel-and-arrival Arrange your accommodation in Leeds Plan your travel to the UK, ensuring you arrive in time for your studies

If you have any questions, need any support, or are unable to complete any of the steps listed above, please contact the International team at international@leedstrinity.ac.uk.

You can find out more about getting ready for the UK on our website. Scan the QR code for further information.

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The essentials Before you travel to the UK for university, it is important to have the right information and documents prepared to ensure you’re prepared for your studies.

Visa

Register for a GP

As an international student, you must ensure you have the correct immigration status for your time in the UK. If you need a visa, you will be required to pay an application fee. For students staying longer than six months, the Student visa is the most common option.

Whilst living in the UK, you should register for a local General Practice doctor (GP). You should use your local GP for medical advice, physical examinations, diagnoses for new symptoms and prescriptions.

The closest GPs are:

You can check whether you need a visa on the UK Government website: gov.uk/check-uk-visa.

Please note: The UK is no longer part of the EU, and freedom of movement between the UK and the EU has ended.

Healthcare The National Health Service (NHS) is the UK’s publically funded, universal-access healthcare system. As part of your visa application, you will need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which entitles you to free medical treatment through the NHS whilst you are in the UK. The amount you pay depends on the length of your course and the type of visa you apply for.

Emergency services and primary care (GP appointments) are free for everyone, including students on a Visitor visa. However, visitors must pay for hospital treatment and specialist services, such as prescriptions, dental treatment, eye tests and assisted conception. European visitors should present a valid EHIC card when accessing care.

If you are coming to the UK as a short-term student (with permission to stay for six months), we advise that you arrange private medical insurance to cover periods when you are not

• •

Horsforth Campus: The New Croft Surgery City Campus: The Light Surgery

For other urgent medical care, please contact: • •

111: NHS urgent medical care and advice 999: Medical emergencies and ambulances

You can find out more information on registering for your local GP by visiting the ‘Student Info Point’ tile on myLTU and navigating to the ‘Health Information’ section under Student Support.

Medication If you take regular medication, speak with your doctor before travelling to the UK. This will help you: • •

Check whether your medication is available through the NHS. Identify suitable alternatives, and get this information in writing so you know exactly what to request if needed.

If your medication is essential, ask your doctor to prescribe a three-month supply to bring with you. Make sure you carry a full prescription with your name on it, or a letter from your doctor when entering the UK.

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Your packing checklist To ensure you have everything you need to get started as a student in the UK, we have put together a list of the key items you should bring.

Important documents

Practical items Laptop: We recommend bringing your own device to access online materials. You do not need to bring any textbooks with you, as they are likely to be in the library.

Your passport Offer letter from Leeds Trinity University Travel insurance policy (if you have one)

Mobile phone: For more information on using a mobile in the UK, see page 14.

EHIC card (if you are from the EU/EEA)

Personal electronic devices: An e-reader, tablet or other items.

Prescriptions for regular medications Driver’s license (if you have one)

A small amount of cash: Any sum over £10,000 must be declared at customs.

Bank card

UK power adaptors: The UK uses Type G power plugs and sockets, with a standard mains electricity voltage of 230 volts.

Make sure to pack these in your hand luggage.

If you applied for a Student visa, you also need to: Plan your travel to the UK, ensuring you arrive in time for your studies Pack a copy of the bank statements you submitted your application Bring details of accommodation you have arranged (even if temporary)

Personal items

Weather-appropriate clothing The UK is known for its unpredictable weather.

You may enjoy sunshine one moment and get caught in the rain the next. We recommend dressing in layers that you can add or remove as needed.

Medications (we recommend bringing a minumum of a three-month supply)

A weatherproof coat with a hood

Glasses and/or contact lenses

Boots or waterproof shoes

Toothbrush

A warm hoodie or fleece

Basic toiletries

The average minimum and maximum temperatures in the UK varies:

Comfort items to ease feelings of homesickness, such as photographs of family and friends, favourite books and games, and religious or cultural symbols that are meaningful to you

• •

January: minimum 1.2 °C (34.2 °F), maximum 6.4 °C (43.5 °F) July: minimum 11.7 °C (53.1 °F), maximum 20.4 °C (68.2 °F)

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Student accommodation You need to ensure you have arranged your accommodation before you arrive in the UK. There are a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets available to you as a Leeds Trinity student, including halls of residence on our Horsforth Campus and near our City Campus.

All Saint’s Court Horsforth Campus Self-catered ensuite, 198 beds £145 - £149 per week

Fountain’s Court Horsforth Campus Self-catered ensuite, 228 beds £145 - £146 per week

Kirkstall Hall Horsforth Campus Budget self-catered ensuite, 84 beds £119 per week

Trinity Close Horsforth Campus, townhouse style Premium self-catered ensuite, 84 beds £149 - £155 per week

Clarence Dock Village 15 minute walk to City Campus Self-catered ensuite £141 - £149 per week

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Contracts Accommodation contracts typically cover 41 weeks of the year. For September arrivals, standard contracts in 2026 commence on Sunday 20 September 2026 and run until Saturday 3 July 2027.

If you are an exchange or visiting student, you may be eligible for a semester-only or 50 week contracts, although this is limited to certain halls.

You will be invited to book your accommodation after you have confirmed your acceptance of an offer to study at Leeds Trinity University. Please note that not all accommodation types may be available at the time of booking, so we recommend applying as early as possible. If you are applying for a visa, we recommend waiting until you have confirmation of your visa approval before booking your accommodation.

Postgraduate accommodation Leeds Trinity University sets aside single occupancy, en-suite, self-catered accommodation specifically for postgraduate students.

Typical postgraduate contracts are for 44 weeks and begin on Sunday 30 August and run until Saturday 3 July 2027.

For those studying at City Campus, we recommend Clarence Dock Village. On the Horsforth Campus, postgraduates can choose between Trinity Close or All Saints Court.

Facilities and support Residents in all our accommodation are supported by resident mentors and a dedicated Student Support team.

Rent in all the accommodation on the Horsforth Campus includes utility bills, Wi-Fi, bedding, bed linen, towels and contents insurance and are included during the duration of your residency. At Clarence Dock Village, you can pre-order bedding and linen.

We are unable to provide accommodation for families or partners.

Scan the QR code to explore Leeds Trinity accommodation on our website.

For accommodation enquiries, contact the Accommodation team at accommodation@leedstrinity.ac.uk.

For questions about living off-campus, contact studyabroad@leedstrinity.ac.uk.

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Student life in the UK Whilst studying in Leeds, it’s important to get settled into life in the UK. In this section, get to know Horsforth and Leeds, discover the best ways to travel in the UK, find out about your work options and setting up your mobile phone abroad, and more.

Your new home Leeds Trinity University’s campuses are located in Horsforth and Leeds city centre in the Yorkshire region. In this section, find out some of the key information about these locations that will help you settle into your new home.

Explore Horsforth Horsforth is a suburb of Leeds and has approximately 20,000 inhabitants. It has been voted as one of the best towns in England for quality of life.

There are many cafés, shops, parks, pubs, restaurants, a woodland and a river, and a supermarket.

Horsforth is well connected to Leeds via bus routes (30 minutes), taxi (15 minutes), and train (eight minutes).

Discover Leeds City Campus is located in Leeds city centre. Leeds has approximately 800,000 inhabitants and is one of the main financial and business hubs outside of London.

Leeds is a young and vibrant student city with five universities and lots of bars and clubs. There are many Leeds-based sports teams to support and participate in, such as football, cricket, rugby and netball.

Leeds is well-connected to the rest of the UK by train. It takes one hour to Manchester, two hours to London and three hours to Edinburgh.

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About Yorkshire Leeds is the biggest city in a county called Yorkshire, named after York (a medieval city and just 30 minutes from Leeds by train).

Yorkshire is known for its mix of cities such as Leeds, York and Sheffield and countryside such as the Yorkshire Dales and the North York Moors.

There is always something to see and do, from historic sites like Kirkstall Abbey and York Minster to museums like the National Railway Museum in York and the National Science and Media Museum in Bradford, concerts and shows at a range of venues like Leeds Grand Theatre, First Direct Arena in Leeds, and more.

Yorkshire is serviced by Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA), located just a 5-minute drive from Horsforth Campus.

Find out more about Leeds!

Whether you’re new to Leeds or you already live in West Yorkshire, there are endless places to visit! Take a look at the websites to familiarise yourself with what’s available in the city (and beyond) for you to explore. leeds-list.com discoverleeds.co.uk visitleeds.co.uk yorkshire.com

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Travelling in the UK You can explore the many ways to travel to your campus in the Get Going Guide, which you should have received by email. Below are some more general tips for travelling in the UK. You should have also received an email from the Money Advice with guidance on budgeting for your travel costs.

Local bus and train travel If you travel regularly, it is often more cost-effective to buy weekly or monthly travel passes instead of single tickets.

• •

MCard: An MCard allows you to travel via bus and train anywhere across West Yorkshire. There are various ticket types available. Find out more on m-card.co.uk.

First Bus mTicket: mTickets are the most convenient way to buy tickets 24 hours a day 7 days a week.

You can purchase these via the First Bus website at firstbus.co.uk/west-yorkshire.

Taxis Taxi fares in the UK are generally affordable, but they are more expensive than using the bus or the train. They are a convenient and safe way to travel, especially if you are with friends or returning late at night.

Popular local taxi services include: • •

Arrow Cars: +44 (0)113 258 5888 Veezu: +44 (0)113 269 1558

Many students also use ride-hailing apps like Uber, which are easy to download and use on your phone.

National travel Train tickets to popular destinations like London and Edinburgh can be expensive. To save money, always plan ahead and buy an advance ticket, which can be much cheaper than purchasing on the day. If you travel often, consider getting a National Railcard via their website nationalrail.co.uk. This is a discount card that offers significant savings on regular rail fares across the UK. A more affordable, though slower, option to travel to parts of the country is by coach. The main providers are: • •

National Express: nationalexpress.com Megabus: megabus.co.uk

To travel internationally across mainland Europe, several low-cost airlines operate from Leeds Bradford Airport, which is located a 6-minute drive away from the Horsforth Campus.

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Working in the UK It is important, if you are an international student, that you are aware of your rights to work (paid and unpaid) in the UK and any limitations around this, such as if you are limited to a certain number of hours.

This will be indicated on your Visa.

•

•

Student Visa: If you are studying at degree level and above, you can work or volunteer for a maximum of 20 hours per week during term time, as long as your main reason for being in the UK is to study.

Check your visa regulations for your conditions to work.

Standard Visitor Visa: If you are a short-term visitor (six months or less), you are not permitted to work or take up voluntary work.

National Insurance Number A National Insurance (NI) number is a unique identifier used in the UK to track an individual’s NI and tax contributions. You can apply for a NI number if you: • • •

live in the UK have the right to work in the UK are working, looking for work or have an offer to start work

It is free to apply for an NI number. You can find out more information on the UK gov website: gov.uk/browse/tax/national-insurance.

Taxes Students are liable for income tax and NI in the same way as other workers. If you are entitled to work, you are can earn a certain amount before you start paying tax. This is called your Personal Allowance.

You can find out more about current allowances on the UK gov website for tax rates: gov.uk/income-tax-rates.

your studies, as part-time work is never guaranteed and can be difficult to secure. If you are relying on part-time work to fund your full living costs during your studies, contact the Money Advice team at moneyadvice@leedstrinity.ac.uk.

Careers+Placements offers a range of services to support international students with professional work placements and careers. This includes: • •

• • • •

Personalised appointments with Careers Advisors and Consultants.

Finding part-time jobs, internships and placements via MyCareer - our dedicated careers platform.

Help with prepare CVs, cover letters and interview support.

Accessing employer events.

Searching for placement and networking opportunities related to your course.

Supporting you throughout your degree and three years after graduation.

When you start at Leeds Trinity University, you can access a dedicated career support page for international students on the Careers+Placements SharePoint.

You can contact the Careers+Placements team via:

Career support

•

A lot of students choose to study alongside their studies to bring in extra income and support living costs. However, this is not a reliable way to fund

• •

Email: careers@leedstrinity.ac.uk or placements@leedstrinity.ac.uk Phone: +44 (0)113 283 7151 In-person: AG12 (Horsforth Campus) and TS0-03 (Leeds City Campus

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Getting connected Staying connected is essential when you’re studying far from home. Here are some tips to find the best mobile and internet options for your needs.

Mobile providers The easiest and quickest way to connect and use your phone in the UK is with a SIM-only mobile provider.

These deals do not include a physical phone and there is no long-term contract.

You can select between: • •

Physical SIM card - A small card inserted into your phone. eSIM - A digital version of a SIM that can be downloaded directly to your phone.

Both options provide you with a local phone number and you can choose a monthly plan that fits your needs (including the amount of data, calls and texts). These plans are flexible and you can often switch to a different package or provider at any time.

Roaming charges Most SIM-only plans offer unlimited calls and texts to UK numbers. International calls may be expensive and you may be charged extra. These are called roaming charges.

It is important to check with your mobile provider before you travel to understand how much it might cost to use your phone in the UK. Many providers still offer free roaming between UK and EU countries, but this is no longer guaranteed by law. This means that charges can be introduced at any time without much notice.

To avoid unexpected fees, we suggest switching off data roaming on your phone when you arrive in the UK. If you plan to call home regularly, consider monthly plans that include international minutes.

Wi-Fi Free Wi-Fi is available across both Horsforth and City Campus and in halls of University-owned accommodation. Most student accommodation providers include bills such as Wi-Fi in the rental price.

You can connect to Wi-Fi for free in most cafés and restaurants.

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Student support Starting your journey as an international student is an exciting time, but it can also feel daunting.

Leeds Trinity University is committed to providing a truly personal experience. To ensure you settle in and feel supported throughout your time at Leeds Trinity, get to know our dedicated Student Support services who are here to help you navigate every aspect of university life, from academic worries to personal wellbeing.

Student Support

Mental Health & Wellbeing

Student Support are available from 9:00am until 5.00am Monday to Friday, and 12:00pm until 5:00am Saturday to Sunday.

The Mental Health and Wellbeing service provides the opportunity to talk in confidence about any issues causing concern.

The team provide support and advice on all areas of student life. You can reach the Duty Managers by phone or text on +44 (0)7458 109288 or by emailing studentsupport@leedstrinity.ac.uk.

The team can help direct you towards the most appropriate support whether that be via our qualified and experienced practitioners on campus or via local NHS and non-NHS services.

One-to-one chats can then be arranged on campus or via phone, text or video call.

Leeds Trinity also has a dedicated International Student Support Duty Manager who you can meet with in-person or online. They offer specialist support to help you adjust to life in the UK, covering everything from practical enquiries to emotional wellbeing. As a Leeds Trinity student, you are a name, not a number, and our support staff take the time to get to know you.

Disability Services Disability Services are here to support students.

The team can help manage any disability-based barriers that might be impacting your ability to study.

If you have a disability, long-term health condition, mental health difficulty or specific learning difference, we encourage you to let them know so they can support you from day one.

You can get in touch with the service with any questions or to refer yourselves either through myLTU or by emailing studentwellbeing@leedstrinity.ac.uk.

Money Advice Money Advice can support you with most money queries including Student Finance, Hardship Funds, Bursaries from Leeds Trinity, tax, benefits, debts and more.

You can get in touch with the team by emailing moneyadvice@leedstrinity.ac.uk.

Moving to a new country is a big step, but you are not alone. We look forward to welcoming you to Leeds Trinity and supporting you throughout your journey.

You can get in touch with the team by emailing disability@leedstrinity.ac.uk.

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Culture shock Moving to university can bring mixed emotions of both excitement and worry. When moving to a new place with an unfamiliar culture, you may experience something called ‘culture shock.’ This is a common experience and can impact the way you interact with new experiences.

To make the transition as easy as possible, we have put together some top tips and key information about aspects of culture in the UK.

Etiquette and vocabulary

Mental health and wellbeing

People in the UK are very polite. Here are some commons words people use:

Talking about mental health in the UK is welcome and encouraged, especially at Leeds Trinity University. If you need support during your time at Leeds Trinity, there are a range of free services available.

• • •

“Please” and “thank you” are used in most interactions.

“Sorry” is used even when the person speaking is not at fault.

“Excuse me” is used when trying to get someone’s attention.

In the UK, communication can also be indirect.

Meaning is often expressed through tone, body language or subtle hints. For example, a lecturer may ask “Have you considered a different approach?”, which would mean that something needs significant improvement.

Here are some additional common slang words and phrases include: • •

• • • • • •

“Ace” means something is brilliant.

“Cheers” is an alternative way to say thank you, such as when you are getting off the bus and saying thank you to the driver.

“Mate” is a common term meaning friend.

“Not my cup of tea” means to dislike something.

“Alright?” is commonly used as a greeting.

“Hiya” and “Ey up” are informal greetings.

“Ta” means thank you.

“Love” and “duck” is a term of affection used across Yorkshire, not specific to loved ones as you might expect.

You can reach out to our Mental Health and Wellbeing service and our Student Support team if you are struggling or if you notice that someone else is struggling. You can find out more about our services by visiting the ‘Student Info Point’ tile on myLTU. There are words which people may use in a derogatory way to describe mental health or mental health conditions. Please do not use these.

As a university community, we expect you to speak up and correct others when they are used.

In England, it is common to ask “you okay?” or “you alright?” if you are worried about someone or if someone is worried about you. This generally prompts someone to talk about how they are feeling. If you are worried about someone, try asking them if they are okay.

Littering Littering is a criminal offence and dropping your litter in a public area can result in a fine.

Ensure you dispose of your litter correctly. Most public areas have waste bins.

If you are unsure what someone means, it is ok to ask for clarification.

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Food and drink Drinking is considered a significant part of student culture in the UK, but around 20% of the population does not drink alcohol and it is completely acceptable to choose not to drink alcohol.

If you choose to drink alcohol, drink responsibly and ensure you adhere to any local restrictions, such as not drinking on public transport.

The legal drinking age in the UK is 18 years old. It is illegal to buy or offer alcohol to anyone under the age of 18. You may be asked to show proof of your age when buying alcohol.

The UK has lots of dishes that may be different to what you typically eat. You may find that you like some of the new foods and some not so much!

It is up to you whether to try some traditional “Yorkshire” or “British” foods during your time here.

If you want to, some common foods include: •

•

•

Yorkshire pudding – This is usually eaten with a roast dinner (traditionally eaten on a Sunday) this is a mix of eggs, flour and milk/water which creates a batter. This is then cooked in the oven and eaten as a side dish, often with meat, potatoes and gravy.

Fish and chips – This is battered fish and deep-fried chips, commonly eaten with mushy peas, curry sauce, or gravy.

Cream tea – This is traditionally a midday/ afternoon meal. It generally consists of scones with jam and cream, accompanied by tea or coffee.

Leeds is a hugely multicultural city and has many international food markets which you can visit to find foods that you would use at home. These foods may be more expensive as they have been imported, so it is important to be mindful of your food budget.

Drugs The UK has strict laws about drugs. Possession and supply of any drugs, even small amounts for

personal use, is illegal and can result in arrest, prosecution, disciplinary action from the university and puts your immigration status at risk.

You can find out more information about the UK’s drug laws on the UK gov website: gov.uk/penalties-drug-possession-dealing.

Smoking Smoking and the use of vapes and e-cigarettes are prohibited in: • • •

Public transport Indoor public places Cars whilst travelling with minors

You can only smoke outside in designated areas.

At our campuses, smoking is permitted: • •

Horsforth Campus - in the designated smoking shelters.

City Campus - in Trevelyan Square.

Timekeeping It is important to be on time in the UK, especially for appointments, classes and social plans.

If you are running late, let the other person know in advance.

Tipping in a restaurant Tipping is not always expected at restaurants, but it is appreciated. Some restaurants add a service charge to your bill. Check your bill before paying to prevent yourself from tipping twice.

Queuing Waiting in line for your turn is taken seriously. It is considered rude to cut in line. Always identify the end of the queue and wait patiently.

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Religion, festivals and traditions Religion The UK is a multi-faith society where students of all religions are welcomed and respected. With a long history of multiculturalism, the UK has communities from all world religions and Leeds Trinity University is committed to supporting students’ religious needs on campus.

Many people in the UK freely express their faith through daily practices, such as wearing religious dress like turbans, hijabs or yarmulkes, and by celebrating festivals like Christmas, Eid, Diwali or Hanukkah.

The UK values religious freedom and tolerance. You are free to express your beliefs in the way that feels right for you.

Leeds Trinity Chaplaincy Both Horsforth and City Campuses have multi-faith prayer spaces and a Chapel that you can use for your own personal prayer and reflection. These spaces are available to access every day except bank holidays and university closure days. The spaces are located: • •

Horsforth Campus - Off the Atrium near the Main Reception.

City Campus - On the first floor at the front of the building.

Our Chaplaincy team run various events to help all students feel part of a community, volunteer and help those in need, ask life’s biggest questions, and encounter God. Everything they offer is open to all students, regardless of who they are and what they believe, and is almost always free to take part in. They are also available for one-to-ones, to be a listening ear and source of support for any student who is facing challenges of any kind. Get involved!

You can find out more information about Leeds Trinity Chaplaincy on the Chaplaincy website: leedstrinitychaplaincy.co.uk.

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Bank holidays Bank holidays are public holidays (non-working days) in the UK. There are eight bank holidays spread across the year. You can find out more about the UK bank holidays on the UK gov website: gov.uk/bank-holidays

Easter Easter is a Christian tradition which commemorates the death and resurrection of Jesus, but the season is often celebrated by non-religious people too as there are two days of public holiday associated with it - Good Friday and Easter Monday.

People celebrate Easter by attending Church, eating chocolate eggs, or Easter eggs. Common symbols of Easter are crosses (often decorated with white cloth) and the Easter Bunny, a mythical rabbit that brings chocolate gifts during Easter.

Ramadan Ramadan is a holy season of fasting that occurs in the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. It is a time of fasting, prayer and increased devotion. Muslims open their fasts daily at dusk during this month.

Be mindful that some businesses (especially eateries) have amended opening hours during this season in response to fluctuating demand.

Bonfire night Bonfire Night, also known as Guy Fawkes Night, is a long-standing British tradition celebrated every year on 5 November. It marks the failed attempt by Guy Fawkes in 1605 to blow up the House of Lords.

Over 400 years later, people across the UK commemorate this event by hosting their own fireworks displays and bonfires.

Christmas Christmas is a Christian tradition which commemorates the birth of Jesus. However, the feast is often enjoyed by non-religious people too by spending time with family, buying gifts for loved ones, attending Christmas markets and celebrations, and putting up decorations and Christmas trees in their homes!

Christmas Day (25 December) and the day after Christmas, or Boxing Day, are public holidays.

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Zarin

International student from Bangladesh Data Science and Artificial Intelligence MSc Can you describe a day in the life as an international Leeds Trinity student?

What was your first week at Leeds Trinity University like?

I attend classes at the city centre campus, located in the centre of Leeds. I have classes every Tuesday, where I stay throughout the day for lectures and labs. Although my Tuesdays are busy, the most refreshing part is that LTU provides us with free coffee, tea, hot chocolate, cookies, and dates during Ramadan. The campus also has prayer rooms, which I appreciate. Overall, I love the canteen, common spaces, library, and especially the top floor. LTU feels like my second home.

My first week at LTU was welcome week. During this time, I experienced meeting new people, exploring a new city, and adjusting to a new country. I participated in various programs, including the welcome week fair, a city tour with LTU staff, and a welcome night for international students, where we enjoyed food and games together. Overall, my first week at LTU was fantastic.

Jyothika

International student from India Computer Science MSc Can you describe a day in the life as an international Leeds Trinity student?

What was your first week at Leeds Trinity University like?

A typical day at LTU starts with attending lectures and tutorials, where learning is interactive and engaging. After classes, I spend time studying in the library or working on assignments.

My first week at LTU was exciting and a bit overwhelming! During orientation, I learned about the campus, support services, and met new people from different backgrounds.

I also enjoy meeting friends on campus, especially other international students, which helps me feel more connected. In the evening, I might join activities or relax. Being a LTU student has helped me become more independent and confident.

Although it took some time to adjust to a new system and environment, the friendly staff and students made it easier. By the end of the week, I felt more comfortable and ready to start my journey at LTU.

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Managing your money Managing your money at university is a new experience for many students and an important part of studying in the UK as an international student. In this section, discover some top tips to help you become financially prepared for student life.

Paying your tuition fees As an international student, you are usually expected to self-fund your studies, including your tuition fees and living costs. You may receive contributions from Education Loans from your home government, scholarships or bursaries from external organisations. You can find out more about the money required as an international student on the UK government’s website for student visas: gov.uk/student-visa.

To study in the UK, you must show that you have sufficient funds to cover your tuition fees. Leeds Trinity University will expect prompt payment of the tuition fee in three instalments: • • •

Prior to starting your course: 50% of your fees to secure your CAS In the first eight weeks of your course: 25% of your fees In the second eight weeks of your course: 25% of your fees

Leeds Trinity University does not offer any other payment options or payment plans and cannot accept cash payments for tuition or accommodation. It is important to prioritise this financial commitment as students who do not make the payments on time may face sanctions.

You can view Leeds Trinity University’s financial regulations on our website: leedstrinity.ac.uk/international/international-fees-and-funding/paying-your-tuition-fees.

International credit card We recommend researching which bank accounts or cards in your home country offer the lowest international fees for use in the UK. Digital-only banks can also provide better exchange rates and lower fees for international transactions. VISA and Mastercard are widely accepted across the UK. However, some international providers, such as UnionPay, are not accepted in most places.

Opening a UK bank account Most mainstream banks allow international students to open a basic bank account. These accounts are usually free to use and cover everyday banking needs such as receiving money and paying rent and bills. They do not typically include an overdraft. Some banks offer accounts specifically designed for international students. These are (or are similar to) basic bank accounts, but they may also offer overdraft facilities.

You could find out if your regular bank is represented in the UK, or you can find a bank account that will work for you on the Save The Student website. Each bank will have different requirements to open a bank account.

You will typically require: • • • •

Your passport Proof of your UK address - This may be a letter from the university confirming your term-time address or a copy of your tenancy agreement.

Proof of your immigration status - Most banks will accept the entry vignette in your passport if you have not yet collected your BRP, or the online verification status if you have an eVisa.

A deposit - An amount of money to deposit into the account.

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Accessing money

Words for money

You will not need to carry cash with you often.

Most shops and services (including Horsforth and City Campuses) accept debit and credit cards (VISA, Mastercard). Cash machines (ATMs) are readily available across the UK.

In British language, slang terms are often used, and vary by which area of the country you are in.

There is normally no charge when withdrawing money from a UK bank account. There may be charges when withdrawing from an international bank account.

Some useful Yorkshire slang for money includes: •

“Quid” - 1 British pound (£1).

•

“AK/1K” – 1000 British pounds (£1,000).

Scams

•

“Grand” – 1000 British pounds (£1,000).

Scammers are people who make money through illegal methods, especially by tricking people.

Scammers often target international students.

•

“A couple of quid/ A few quid” – 2 or 3 British pounds. This is often used to refer to anything under 5 British pounds (£5).

•

“A Fiver” – 5 British pounds (£5).

•

“A Tenner” – 10 British pounds (£10).

•

“Cash” – This refers to the physical money that is used. We have coins (1p, 2p, 5p, 10p, 20p, 50p, £1 coins and £2 coins) and notes (£5, £10, £20, £50).

•

Most shops will not accept £50 notes. If you are given a £50 note, we recommend visiting your local bank and asking them to change it to smaller notes.

•

“Value for money” – A price that is deemed to be fair or lower than expected for what you are buying.

•

“Bargain” – A price is deemed to be very good for what you are buying. For example, you might say “I got this box of chocolates on sale for £3, a bargain!”

To avoid being scammed: • •

•

Pay your tuition fees through Leeds Trinity University’s secure finance portal.

Use Leeds Trinity University accommodation or use Unipol for private housing.

Educate yourself on staying safe from scams in the UK using West Yorkshire Police scam guidance.

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Budgeting As an international student, we recommend signing up to Blackbullion - a free, financial wellbeing platform by visiting blackbullion.com. There are many pathways you can follow to learn more about managing your money. We recommend: • • •

Managing your money as an international student Student lifestyle Master your money

We also recommend using BlackBullion’s Budget Calculator to plan your budget for the duration of your studies.

If you need help with managing your money, please contact the Money Advice team at moneyadvice@leedstrinity.ac.uk. If you have questions about paying your tuition fees, please contact the Finance Team at finance@leedstrinity.ac.uk.

Cost of living In our Money Advice 2025 Survey, our international students told us about their average living costs. The table below gives you some indication of what you can expect your costs to be:

Item

Cost

Rent

£468

Utilities (Gas, electricity, water, internet)

£98.93

Groceries

£142.42

Socialising

£45.68

Misc/Other

£45.98

Travel

£99.26

TV Licence

£29.10 per month (6 months)*

*After 6 months, this reduces to £14.54 per month. Private rented properties will usually share one TV licence.

If you are living in halls, you will need an individual TV licence.

Council tax Most students undertaking a full-time university course are exempt from paying council tax. There are some exceptions. Make sure to read the council tax exemption rules for your local council.

You may need to evidence to your local council that you are a student. Log into your e:Vision account, and navigate to ‘download/access bank letter.’ You can use this when applying for a council tax exemption.

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Shopping Groceries

Fashion

The UK offers a wide range of supermarkets.

Prices can vary between stores, so choosing the right one can help you save money. Some of the most common supermarket chains include:

There is no dress code at Leeds Trinity University and no specific cultural expectations around clothing in the UK. You may prefer to pack lightly and shop when you arrive.

• • •

There are a range of clothing stores in Leeds city centre and online that deliver to suit all styles and budgets.

Budget-friendly: Aldi, Lidl, Asda Mid-range: Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Morrisons Premium: Marks & Spencer, Waitrose

Local grocery shops include: •

•

Horsforth: Morrisons is located on Horsforth Town Street, a 20-minute walk from Horsforth Campus or 5 minutes via the Shuttle Bus. Leeds: There are many smaller shops in Leeds city centre, including Morrisons in the Merrion Centre and Sainsbury’s Local on Albion Street near City Campus.

If you prefer to shop online, most supermarkets offer home delivery. There may be a minimum spend at check out. For specialty and international foods, Kirkgate Market has a wide variety of food stalls.

Household When you arrive in the UK, there may be some essential household items that are too large to bring with you, such as bedsheets, electrical items and kitchen items. Here are some tips on where to get inexpensive basic items.

•

• •

Home goods stores: HomeBargains, B&M and IKEA (IKEA is not well connected by public transport).

Second-hand (or charity) shops.

You can purchase a full-set of supplies from the UniKitOut website, which may be more convenient for you. This can be delivered to your accommodation by the time you arrive.

•

•

For inexpensive clothing options, visit stores such as H&M, Primark, charity shops, or online (Facebook Marketplace, eBay, Vinted and Gumtree).

For designer and more luxurious options, visit Victoria Gate Shopping and department stores.

VAT VAT, or Value Added Tax, is a type of sales tax charged on many goods and services in the UK (similar to systems used in other countries, including the European Union). You will usually see VAT already included in the price of items in shops, so you won’t often notice it as a separate charge when making everyday purchases.

If you buy expensive items while in the UK and plan to take them back to your home country, you may be eligible to claim a refund on the VAT paid.

To do this, you’ll need to keep your receipts and declare the goods at UK Customs before you leave.

Paying for services When you make an agreement to pay for a service, such as rent payments, the cost and date of payment is generally non-negotiable. Payments including rent, utility bills and university fees must be paid in full and before or on the deadlines set.

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Get in touch Visit leedstrinity.ac.uk/new-students to find out more about starting your studies with us.

If you have a question, but you’re not sure who to contact before you start, you can call us on +44 (0)113 283 7100 or email info@leedstrinity.ac.uk.

Information correct at time of publication July 2026.