Procedures After Arrival

Opening a UK Bank Account: It is recommended to first open a digital UK bank account, as this will allow you to apply for your monthly allowance (stipend) as soon as possible. Digital banks have simpler procedures compared to traditional banks, which often require specific documents like proof of residence and a biometric residence permit (BRP). Afterward, you can choose to either continue with a digital bank or open a traditional bank account.

Examples of digital banks: Monzo, Nomo, Revolut.

Examples of traditional banks: HSBC, Bank of Scotland.

Traditional banks usually require documents such as proof of residence, a passport, and a BRP to open an account.

Monthly Allowance Request: Based on instructions from the Ministry of Higher Education, all new and continuing students must provide the cultural office with their university Enrollment Letter at the start of every new academic year through the electronic system KSIMS to ensure the continuous disbursement of monthly allowances. Ensure that your bank account details are updated in the system to facilitate this process.

Phone and Internet Lines: The best mobile networks recommended for students in Glasgow are Vodafone and EE. Annual contracts usually offer better prices, so ask them about student discounts. For internet in your apartment, Sky is highly recommended.

Receiving Your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP): For foundation-year students, the university will send you an email with the appointment details for collecting your BRP. Make sure to bring your passport to the collection appointment.

For students in other years, the collection point for your BRP will depend on the location you selected when applying for your visa.

1. University of Glasgow students can collect their BRP from Glasgow International College.

2. Strathclyde University students can collect their BRP from International Study Center, Graham Hills Building.

Registering with a General Practitioner (GP): A GP in the UK is like a local clinic in Kuwait, and it’s important for every student to register with one. The NHS (National Health Service) is free for university students in the UK. To register, you need to have your accommodation set first, then find the closest GP service using the NHS directory. You will need your passport, BRP, proof of residence, and enrollment letter to complete the registration.