News

Universities UK, the top representative body for higher education in the UK, today moved to dismiss a number of misconceptions about the visa and tuition fee changes being introduced in Britain. Foreign Students went to find out more.

The President of Universities UK, Professor Steve Smith, was joined by the head of the International and Europe Unit, Dr. Joanna Newman (above), in reassuring international students that they “are an essential part of the UK higher education system” and will remain so.

Indeed, despite the tightening of student visa regulations and the increase in Home/EU student tuitions fees, they fully expect the number of international students coming to the UK to continue rising, just as it has for the last decade. So why are they so sure of this?

Visa Changes

Professor Smith allayed fears that the changes to visa regulations will prevent international students from studying in the UK, instead suggesting that they will have “little or no consequence on legitimate international students”. The tightened rules will simply remove those people currently abusing the system by gaining student visas through fake private colleges.

If you are considering London as a study-abroad destination, be prepared for a high cost of living that does not stop rising. Since London's soaring prices will affect every aspect of your lifestyle, it is a good idea to plan a budget and maximize savings so you are less financially constrained and can enjoy all the fun stuff that London offers as well. Here are some tips based on my own experience:

Housing

Accommodation in student halls tends to be the cheapest option. If you are considering renting a private property, notice that the value of real estate rises as you go towards the center of London, Zone 1. As you leave the center, Zone 3 properties are significantly more affordable.

Groceries

If you do not live in a student residence hall, where you will usually have access to cheap meal services, then you will want to be selective when purchasing groceries. Tesco, Sainsbury's and Asda chains are cheaper than their Waitrose and Marks & Spencer counterparts. Buying online also gives you access to a wider range of products and discounts.

Transportation

Every Friday we reveal all the very best things to keep you entertained this weekend . Whether you are staying in, or going out, have a shoestring budget or are feeling extravagant, there is something for everyone.

Staying In

TV

• The Walking Dead: If you haven’t had a chance to watch this US zombie series yet, then now is your perfect opportunity, as Channel 5 are showing the whole first season starting tonight. A police officer wakes from a coma only to find that the world has been taken over by the walking dead. He sets out to find his family, ‘killing’ the infected left, right and centre, whilst making new friends who join him.

When? Friday 15th, 10.55pm-12.30am on Channel 5