International students

Pre-departure checklist

Please use the checklist below to help you throughout the different stages of your planning and packing to arrive in the UK.  Once you select the items/tasks that are appropriate to your own situation, you can click the 'print my checklist' button to either print it out (or you could save it as a pdf if you have that facility on your computer)!  If you have any queries about the options below, please contact the International Student Advisers. 


Step 1

Check the visa requirements
Check validity of passport before travelling
Check visa for correct terms and conditions
Arrange travel insurance
Book a place on International Student Orientation before the deadline
Book a place on the Welcome Programme airport pick-up service
Arrange my accommodation in advance (at least for first night)
Plan travel to my accommodation (if not using airport pick-up service or travelling outwith collection times)
Request a letter from doctor about medication I take regularly
Check if I need a license for bringing any medication to UK

Step 2

Check what items are permitted to be carried in hold & hand luggage
Make photocopies of important documents (e.g. visa, passport, CAS)
Store photocopies of above documents in hold luggage
Label my luggage with my details
Check with airline regarding maximum luggage amount and policies

Step 3

Passport (containing visa if applicable)
CAS (if a Tier 4 student) or Student Visitor letter
Financial evidence
Transcipts/certificates from previous studies
My UK accommodation address
Medication and license or doctor's letter (if required)
Contact details for University of Glasgow
Contact details for my Embassy in the UK
Contact details for my friends and family
Downloaded Glasgow map for initial directions
Tickets or online flight booking and boarding pass
Clothes for changing weather (i.e. waterproof)
Enough UK pounds sterling for initial costs (e.g. taxi fares, accommodation deposit, food etc.)

Step 4

Prepared for any questions a Border Force Officer may ask on arrival (e.g about course of study, accommodation etc.)