Studying far from home is not easy, especially when you are going out for the first time. There are over 700,000 students currently pursuing their education at universities and colleges in London. And do you know how many of these students are living far from home? Over 80%. Students moving to London often face common challenges, like homesickness, cultural difference, language barriers, academic differences, etc. Keep reading to learn about the causes of these challenges faced by students in London and tips to overcome them.
Do you want to make the best of your academic journey in London? We’re surely you want to. But how’s that possible when you are faced with challenges in your way? Students moving to London face several challenges. These affect their academic experience and mental health too. Let’s discuss these challenges and their causes.
Finding Affordable Accommodation
Not everyone can afford expensive accommodation in London. Students search for affordable housing options to manage their finances, and to be honest, this is a mammoth task.
The average accommodation rent in London is £1,100 to £1,875/ month.
With demand far outweighing supply, many students end up paying more than they had planned for.
Citi’s rent prices are about 80% higher than the UK
Cultural Adaptation
Life in London is different. Adapting to the city’s culture can be exciting as well as overwhelming.
There are unique customs, social norms, and traditions that are different from those in your home countries.
British humor or the local way of socializing affects the day-to-day communication.
Statistics show that over 40% of students in London are from abroad, highlighting the city’s diversity, but also the potential cultural shock newcomers face.
City’s Complex Transport Network
There are a total of 272 subway stations in London. The entire system is composed of 11 lines, including Bakerloo, Central, Northern, Victoria, Jubilee, etc.
This extensive transport system can be overwhelming at first.
It’s a challenge for students to figure out the bus routes and subway stations, walkways, especially when traveling in the city for the first time.
No wonder London has an efficient transport system, but it takes time to get used to the hustle and bustle of London’s commuting life.
Feeling Lonely and Homesickness
You are far from home and yes, you will feel lonely at times, even if you make new friends.
Feeling homesickness in London is a common challenge faced by most of the students.
It’s a preoccupation with home and the people you are missing, your family and friends.
It is normal to feel homesick for the first few weeks. It affects many students with their transition to the new environment.
Academic Challenges
London’s academics might become demanding in many ways that students aren’t prepared for.
Your SAT scores are not just grades or entrance qualifications.
Students have to fight for survival-what is called independent learning.
This can be particularly tough for humanitarian students not entirely used to the UK’s lines of academia.
How to Overcome Challenges in London?
We’ve told you the challenges faced by students in London and their causes. Now, let’s turn to their solutions to make your journey smooth.
How to Find Affordable Accommodation in London?
Finding affordable accommodation in London is challenging but not impossible. You can find an affordable housing in London if you:
Start your search at least five to six months before the classes begin.
Consider purpose build student accommodation (PBSAs) with competitive prices and amenities.
Living outside the city center where you can easily find cheaper housing options.
Consider sharing rooms with a friend or batchmate to reduce the rent cost.
Cultural Adaptation
Adapting to UK’s culture requires patients and constant engagement with fellow students, university staff, property owner, and locals.
You can try to pay attention to British norms like queuing or understanding subtle humor.
You’re not alone in this journey—other international students are going through similar experiences.
Cultural adaptation takes time, so allow yourself the space to adjust without pressure.
Understanding the Transport System
To understand London’s extensive transport system, you must download apps like Citymapper or Tfl. These will help you with navigation, schedules, and delays. For students bringing personal vehicles to London, services like https://www.shiply.com/de/autotransport can simplify the process of car transport, reducing the stress of navigating the city’s busy streets.
Your Oyster card will be a lifesaver. It will offer the cheapest and most convenient way to travel around London.
You’ll familiarize yourself with routes when you travel daily.
You can consider walking or biking short distances, which can save money and keep you healthy.
Overcoming Loneliness and Homesickness
You are the only one feeling lonely and homesick. A most every international student living far from family for the first time goes through this phase.
You can join student societies to meet people with similar interests and find a sense of community.
You can stay connected with your loved ones via video calls and text messages.
Keep yourself busy by immersing yourself by visiting cultural events, museums, or exploring different neighborhoods.
You can seek support from the university’s wellbeing services or peers to deal with loneliness.
Adapting to Academic Pressure
Dealing with academic pressure requires time management, assistance from professors and tutors, self-care, and more.
You can use planners or digital tools to stay updated about deadlines and assignments.
Reach out to professors and university staff for guidance, especially if you are struggling with coursework.
Join study groups to easy academic pressure and understand complex topics.
Practice self-care to avoid burnout. This can be done by regular exercise, sufficient sleep, and healthy eating.
You can find Finding affordable accommodation in London only when you start your search early and consider official sources.
Here are some of the affordable student housing in London:
The Valentine
Chapter Ealing
Chapter Aldgate
Surrey Quays Landale House
Chapter Old Street
Chapter Lewisham
Scape Mile End Canalside
Chapter Highbury
Chelsea Lightfoot Hall
Venues Studios
Conclusion
Challenges are part of life. Whether you are studying in your home country or abroad, there will be challenges ahead. It is up to you how you overcome those challenges and make the best of your academic journey in London. We have discussed some of the common challenges students face in London. We also highlighted their solutions so that students can life a hassle-free life and achieve their academic goals.
