14 Things to Know Before Studying Abroad in London

Studying abroad in London is magical. (And no, it’s not just the Harry Potter connection.)

When you study abroad in London, the city’s magic is caught in the way the sun hits the Thames. It’s how the city looks from a bird’s eye view in the London Eye. It’s the moment you realize you can navigate the Tube effortlessly. It’s the first time you come back from a weekend of traveling and refer to your neighborhood as “home.”

You won’t be able to imagine ever leaving when you study abroad in London.

What is it like to study abroad in London?

The magic of studying abroad in London is that there’s something for everyone. Take classes at world-renowned universities in everything from art history to finance to engineering. Intern for a summer or semester in one of the world’s leading business, arts, and culture cities. Volunteer with local nonprofits and meet London’s diverse and growing population.

Is studying abroad in London worth it? You’ll have to decide for yourself, but if weekend travel is one of your goals, you’re in luck. From London you can easily travel around the UK and Europe. There’s SO much to explore only a train, bus, or plane away.

Still wondering, “What is it like to study abroad in London?” You’ll have plenty of time to soak up the charm of the city and explore for yourself, but why not get a head start on figuring it out? Prepare yourself with these 14 tips for students studying abroad in London.

14 tips for students studying abroad in London

1. Not to state the obvious, but London is huge.

What is it like to study abroad in London? Getting lost and loving every second of it.

Nearly 9 million people call London home — and that’s just the city itself. More than 14 million people live in the London metro area. Talk about a big city! Whether you’re a born-and-bred city person or you want to test out the waters as an urbanite, you can find your place when studying abroad in London.

Want to take classes near the heart of the city? Most study abroad providers have their classrooms and offices in centrally-located neighborhoods like Bloomsbury and Kensington. Popular study abroad universities, such as University College London; City, University of London; and University of Westminster, are also in the middle of it all.

Looking for more of a campus feel? Other universities like Queen Mary, University of London in the East End are set in slightly quieter neighborhoods.

Pro Tip: One of our top tips for students studying abroad in London is to create a bucket list of at least one thing you want to do in each of London’s 48 distinct neighborhoods. It’ll encourage you to experience all the city has to offer!

2. Don’t overpack. Seriously, it’s not worth it.

Nearly anything you might forget, you can buy in London. Forgot your gloves and hat for the winter? London shops sell those. Not sure if you’re going to need a notebook for every class? Don’t sweat it, Londoners also use paper.

Especially when it comes to clothing and accessories, less is more — you’ll probably want to pick up some new pieces as souvenirs anyway!

Pro Tip: When it comes to medicine, definitely pack what you need. Talk with your doctor about getting enough of your prescription medicine to last your time abroad. You may not be able to find your preferred brands of over-the-counter medicine, so it’s worth it to bring those along, too.

3. Student housing is competitive, to say the least.

London has an abundance of student apartments, residence halls, and other university accommodations, but the list of students trying to get in is long. One of the best study abroad in London tips? Take the burden off your shoulders by choosing a study abroad program like IES Abroad that finds comfortable and safe housing for you.

Pro Tip: Read online reviews about study abroad programs in London or talk with students from your university who have gone on your program before to learn what housing includes (e.g. Do they have a gym facility? Is bedding included? Do you share kitchens and bathrooms?).

4. They speak your language, but that doesn’t mean you’ll understand everything.

Tips for students studying abroad in London: Prepare to be a bit confused and learn how to navigate the city. It’s all part of the experience!

Yes, people speak English in London, but it’s very likely that you’ll experience some culture shock anyway. Whether it’s the hustle of a big city, the cars on the other side of the street, or the fact that they don’t refrigerate eggs (it’s okay, they process them differently than in the United States, so they’re safe to use at room temperature!), there may be moments where the newness of it all can be a bit much.

Study abroad doesn’t have to be go-go-go. Tips for students studying abroad in London can include a lot of things to go do. When you experience culture shock it’s okay to call a time-out. Take some time to reflect and process. Maybe for you that’s writing in your journal, talking with other students on your program, or calling a family member back home.

Pro Tip: Join a meetup, club, or society to meet local students who can help you understand more about British culture.

5. You can do your résumé (and yourself) a favor with an internship in London.

International work experience can be a priceless addition to your résumé, not to mention give you first-hand experience with a London-based company or organization. One of the major things to know before studying abroad in London is that it’s the perfect opportunity to make professional connections and determine if your dream to live in London permanently is something you really want to make a reality after college (sorry-not-sorry, Mom and Dad!).

Look for study abroad programs that allow you to work a part-time internship in addition to your classes, like IES Abroad’s Study London program. If you want to totally dive in to London’s 9-to-5 work culture, consider a full-time internship for a summer or semester.

Pro Tip: Research the type of visa you will need for your internship in advance. You will likely need to budget extra money and time to make sure you have the correct documentation to officially live and intern in London.

6. Public transit will be your best friend.

This list of study abroad in London tips wouldn’t be complete without a nod to public transportation. The Tube in London is one of the best public train transportation systems, not only in Europe, but the world! This means you can spend less time commuting and more time experiencing the amazing sights and sounds that London has to offer.

Is studying abroad in London worth it? Well, if you’ve ever dreamed of sitting on top of a red double decker bus, you’ll have your answer soon enough. Get ready for your new commuting reality.

Pro Tip: Make sure to get your student discount on Oyster cards for train and bus fare.

7. Did someone say markets!?

Our study abroad in London tips include trying all the local foods!

Potentially one of the most important things to know before studying abroad in London is that you will stumble upon countless markets. The city is home to more than 100+ markets selling everything, including food, flowers, books, and more. Try artisanal cheese at Borough Market, browse antiques at Portobello Market, and pick up fresh flowers and coffee at Columbia Road.

Pro Tip: Create a list of friends and family you want to buy souvenirs for early in your time abroad. As you browse markets, keep this list in mind so that you can find the perfect gift as you go. It’s way more fun (and less stressful) than running around the airport an hour before you fly home buying overpriced tea and chocolate.

8. Get ready to expand your palate. There’s more than just fish and chips in London.

Now, it’s definitely worth hunting down the city’s finest fish and chips, but don’t stop there. The food scene is more diverse than you may think! Because London is such a multicultural city, you can find killer cuisine from all over the world. Craving some bao? Ready for some ramen? London’s got you covered. Hands-down, one of the best tips for students studying abroad in London is to explore all your food options.

Pro Tip: Check out Brick Lane in East London. Indian restaurants line the street where you can barter for a meal. It’s a great way to practice your negotiation skills while throwing in a free appetizer.

9. You can fill your free time without emptying your wallet.

Even on a budget, you’ll have to try to be bored after class and on the weekends when you study abroad in London. Most all museums in London are free: The British Museum, Natural History Museum, National Gallery, Tate Modern, Victoria & Albert Museum, Science Museum, and, well, you get the picture.

If you need a break from exhibits, try a free walking tour of the city, stake out in front of Buckingham Palace for the changing of the guards, or, of course, get your picture taken running into Platform 9¾ in King’s Cross Station.

Pro Tip: You’ll still find a handful of can’t-miss activities that cost money. Student discounts add up and can help you save serious money, so make sure to bring your student ID!

10. WiFi is everywhere.

Gotta update the ‘gram? Need to send mom a photo to let her know that everything’s been a smashing success so far? Not to worry. You can find WiFi nearly everywhere in cafés, restaurants, museums, and more.

For ease and safety, one of our most valuable study abroad in London tips is to get a UK SIM card if you don’t already have an international phone plan, but there’s no need to shell out for gigs on gigs of data to keep up with your social media!

Pro Tip: Find out if your host university or study abroad program offers eduroam, which allows you to connect to WiFi not only while you’re in class, but at any participating eduroam location.

11. The cost of living in London may not be as expensive as people have told you.

So...you might want to consider staying, right?

Is studying abroad in London worth it? Like, dollar-to-pound worth it? Well, the pound is not what it used to be. Fifteen years ago, it was nearly 2 USD to 1 GBP, but in 2019, the pound has been closer to 1.30 USD. What does this all mean? In a nutshell, your dollar will go farther than it used to!

However, cost of living is relative. If you’re from a major U.S. city, you probably won’t notice a difference in price. Notably food, especially grocery items, tend to be cheaper in London than in NYC. If you’re going to school in small-town America, the city costs might still be a bit of a shock. Regardless of where you come from, pay attention to the exchange rate when you plan your budget.

Pro Tip: Sales tax is typically always included in the shelf price when you’re in the UK. The price you see truly is the price you pay.

Bonus Tip: You can generally get by with your credit card, but cash is widely accepted if that’s your jam. Most ATMs in the UK don’t charge a fee, which can add up to quite a bit of savings, but make sure to check your bank’s international withdrawal fees.

12. When it rains, it doesn’t necessarily pour. It’s maritime climate after all.

Okay, yes, London is practically synonymous with overcast skies and regular rain. (The city does average 7-12 days of rain each month.) However, while heavy rainfalls aren’t unheard of, you likely won’t experience extreme thunderstorms or monsoons.

One of the top tips for students studying abroad in London? Be prepared with a raincoat, waterproof walking shoes, and a compact umbrella you can easily carry in your backpack. When in doubt, dress in layers.

Being on an island, London experiences a “maritime climate”, meaning the temperature doesn’t fluctuate dramatically. (Think Seattle weather.) Winter temperatures are usually in the 40s (Fahrenheit) and summer temps don’t usually get too hot and average 70s (Fahrenheit).

Pro Tip: If you’re concerned about “dressing like a Londoner”, aim for a neutral-colored stylish coat instead of a bright-colored windbreaker, and ankle boots instead of tall rubber rain boots.

13. When that sun comes out, it’s time to hit the park.

Spend a morning journaling or reading your favorite book!

One of our study abroad in London tips that you have to take seriously is the necessity to take full advantage of the days when the sun comes out from behind the rainclouds. Londoners are serious about their park life. The city comes alive when it’s sunny, and there’s no better place to bask in the Vitamin D than one of London’s numerous city parks. 

Among the trees and gardens of giant parks like Hyde Park and Regent’s Park, you can easily forget you’re in the middle of one of Europe’s biggest cities. Take a picnic, bring your reading for class, and get ready to people watch and pet some cute dogs (with permission, of course).

Pro Tip: Rent a bike, rowboat, or sail boat to take your park day to the next level.

14. It really is that easy to travel around Europe.

As you’re likely well aware, traveling from London to other major European cities is super convenient. London has three international airports you can compare flight times and prices between: Heathrow, Gatwick, and Stansted.

Want to save a little money (and experience the Chunnel)? Take a bus to Paris! Eurostar offers bus routes to Paris and Brussels. Both cities are definitely worth exploring and can be great connecting points to other top destinations on the continent.

While European flights are comparably cheaper than many domestic U.S. flights, traveling to a new country every weekend can exhaust both your wallet and your body. The UK has so much to offer, so consider booking day trips via bus or train to destinations like Cambridge, Brighton, Stonehenge, or Bath.

Pro Tip: Plan out weekends where you don’t travel. You chose to study abroad in London for a reason, so take time to enjoy all the Sunday brunches, theatre productions, football matches, and hidden gems that London has to offer.

Is studying abroad in London worth it? YES, mate!

You’re going to have an incredible experience filled with morning walks in the park and trips to the market.

This list could be “1,000 Things to Know Before Studying Abroad in London,” and it still wouldn’t fully prepare you for all the exciting, new, challenging, interesting, frustrating, and magical moments of study abroad. The only way to know what studying abroad in London will be like for you is to go and experience it!

Keep your mind open to seeing the world, London, and yourself differently. When you study abroad, you don’t just change locations. It can change your perspective. Get ready for the experience of a lifetime studying abroad in London!

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This article was written with help from IES Abroad. IES Abroad offers 400+ study abroad and internship programs worldwide, serving 500+ top-ranked universities. They are also comprised of Customized Programs, IES Internships, and the Study Abroad Foundation (SAF).