What do I need to live in the UK?
Check out our blog, written by English Path staff and students to find out more about living in the UK!
How to book an English Path accommodation?
You can book your accommodation in 3 simple steps:
- Step 1: You can indicate your preferred type of accommodation (homestay, shared apartment or residence) on the application form during your application for a course. Our Student Services team will record the preferred choice of accommodation.
- Step 2: EP will be able to secure the accommodation option once the invoice has been paid. Our team will send you the accommodation confirmation with further details on the selected option.
- Step 3: You will need to confirm your arrival and send your flight details to our team, as soon as the flight is booked and no later than one week before the flight date. Our team will be able to book and confirm your accommodation and/or transfers and provide more details within the confirmation document.
What items should I bring before leaving my country?
Here are some important things you need to know to make your arrival as smooth as possible. Use our checklist to ensure you don’t forget anything and are prepared for the exciting times ahead.
(i) Checklist
Here are a few important items that you should bring with you:
- Passport
- Acceptance letter
- Accommodation letter
- Proof of health/medical insurance
- A bit of cash and credit/debit cards/Apple or Google Pay
- Weather-appropriate clothing (depending on the season you come to London)
- Adaptor for electrical appliances
- Prescription medication and medical records
- Emergency information
- Toiletries
- Notebook and pen
- Backpack for classes, social programmes, and day trips
- Reusable water bottle
(ii) Pocket money
Recommended weekly budget: £150. This should cover expenses, laundry, local travel and activities. You will need additional money if you want to take weekend trips. Bring £100 with you in cash and a debit or credit card. You will need to check with your financial institution to make sure you will be able to withdraw money from a UK ATM. Do not bring foreign currency. It is not wise to carry around large amounts of cash.
(iii) Clothing
Most students dress casually for classes, but you should bring nice clothes for going out and sportswear for sports and outdoor activities. The climate is changeable and may be different from your own. The` typical temperature is 25-30°C in the summer and 2 to 6°C in the winter, although it can drop below freezing. Bring waterproof clothing if you’re arriving in the autumn or winter.
(iv) Electrical current
Standard voltage in the UK is 230 volts; remember to bring an adaptor with you or buy one when you arrive.
How can I stay updated about school events and activities?
We encourage you to follow the school’s Instagram account before you arrive and especially during your stay. This will give you an idea of what is happening at the school and help you connect with staff and students. This is also where we will post notifications of any unexpected school closures: it is important you check our Instagram account for any messages while you are attending the school, especially if there is severe weather in the area (e.g., snowstorm, flood, etc.). If the school cannot open or school opening will be delayed, we will post a message as soon as possible (the night before or in the morning) to advise you of this, along with information on how to get further updates and any alternate scheduling, (if applicable). Follow EP! @englishpathschools.
Before I arrive in London, what are some important things that I should know?
Arriving at the airport in a foreign country can be overwhelming. To better prepare yourself, make sure that you have read the information below about your arrival and how to get to your accommodation. If you get lost or confused upon arrival, don’t be afraid to ask the airport staff for help as they will be happy to give assistance.
(i) If you have booked a transfer with us, in case of a service emergency, use the following details to contact us:
If you have any flight changes, miss a connecting flight or need help meeting the transfer service, you should call the emergency number. Please be prepared to tell them your name, school name (English Path) and location. Students should only accept a transfer from a greeter with the official English Path signage.
(ii) Be aware of the general living costs (sample prices for items in this city)
(iii) Understand the local customs
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Women in the UK are equal to men and should always be treated fairly.
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All people treat one another with dignity and respect. British people are very empathetic, often consider the feelings of others, and are willing to listen to those with different views and opinions.
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British people sometimes talk to strangers in public areas. This is a great way to practice English, but caution should be taken. You should not give out your address and telephone number or accept inappropriate invitations.
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“Please” and “thank you” are very important words! Always use them if you ask someone to do something for you, or if they help you or give you information.
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The UK is a culturally diverse nation where people of all ethnic backgrounds are treated equally. All individuals should challenge any prejudice they witness (prejudice is the negative opinion or feelings towards something or someone without reason).
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People in the UK leave a tip for good service in restaurants, hair salons and other places. The tip rate at most restaurants is about 10–15% of the bill and is sometimes included. Fast food is not tipped unless it is delivered. Porters in stations, airports and hotels should be tipped approximately £2 per bag. Taxi drivers are generally given a 15% tip.
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No one is above the law, which is put in place to protect everyone. Students should be aware of their legal rights and responsibilities. All individuals hold freedom of choice (within the law).
(iv) Health and safety come first
If you need to see a doctor, you may go to one of the walk-in centres. To find the walk-in centres nearby you visit: clch.nhs.uk/services/walk-in-centres.
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If you get sick: If you get unwell while in the UK, you should visit a doctor. You can ask the Student Services team or your host family where the nearest doctor is. If you have a minor illness, you can ask staff at a local pharmacist for advice. Remember to bring any relevant insurance or medical documentation with you.
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Protecting your belongings: We strongly recommend you take out insurance for your personal belongings, especially cameras, music players, mobile phones and laptops. Personal items cannot be covered by English Path homestay or residence insurance.
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Prescription medication: Remember to bring enough of your prescribed medication with you, as UK pharmacists will not dispense a foreign prescription. International customs agents may ask you questions about your medication upon your departure or arrival, so be sure to pack it carefully. Bring any important medical records (blood type, prescriptions, x-rays) that might be useful for medical care abroad, as well as contact information for your health care providers at home.
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Staying safe at school: If you or another student has an accident or needs urgent medical attention, please come to reception, where the First Aider is located.
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Fire safety: If you discover a fire, press the fire alarm button on the nearest alarm. Leave the building immediately via the fire exit. Make sure you tell a member of EP staff exactly what happened so they can call 999. If you hear the fire alarm, leave the building immediately. Do not run, use the lift or stop to collect your belongings. EP staff will guide you to the fire exit. Go to the assembly point. Follow any instructions given by a member of EP staff and do not go back into the building until you are told to do so by EP staff.
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Personal safety and looking after valuables: London is generally a safe place, but as with a lot of big cities, you should always be alert. Some tips are: Be alert when you are walking alone at night. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash. Do not leave your belongings unattended. In the UK, you do not need to always carry your identification card or passport with you; you can keep it at home and carry a picture of your ID on your phone or a photocopy in your bag.
Please note that everyone is entitled to free emergency medical treatment in the UK. However, if you are admitted to the hospital, you may be charged if you are not entitled to free medical care (as described before).
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Smoking is banned in all public buildings in Britain, including bars, restaurants, shops, stations, cinemas, and all public transport. You can smoke on the street. No one under the age of 18 in the UK may buy or consume tobacco or alcohol, including beer and wine. If you are under 18, it’s against the law for someone to sell you alcohol, to buy or try to buy alcohol, and for an adult to try to buy alcohol for you.
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For drivers, you must drive on the left-hand side, observe all speed limits and signs, give way to emergency vehicles, obey all directions given by police, stop at red traffic lights, and must wear a seatbelt.
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Driving under the influence of alcohol is a very serious crime, and police make regular random checks.
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You will need international ID to enter bars, clubs or pubs (e.g., Passport, ID card, driving license).
(vii) Student code of conduct
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You must attend all classes. If you do not attend your classes, your representative will be informed. If you do not then improve your attendance, you may not be able to continue your course. 85% attendance is needed to be able to receive a certificate of completion.
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Be on time for all your lessons.
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Always tell English Path if you are going to be absent from school for any reason and tell your host family if you are going away overnight.
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If you commit a criminal offence or have to be severely disciplined, you will be sent home. We will also inform the immigration authorities.
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Be respectful, polite and open to different cultures.
(viii) Open a bank account
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The Main banks in the UK are HSBC, Barclays, Natwest, Nationwide and Santander. To open a bank account, the following documents may be needed:
How can I reach the centre from the airport?
You can use the following modes of transport to reach the centre from the airport:
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60 minutes (to Victoria coach station)
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18-25 minutes (to Paddington station)
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30-40 minutes (to Paddington station)
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50-55 minutes (to Piccadilly Circus station)
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120-145 minutes (to Victoria coach station)
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30-40 minutes (to London Bridge station)
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45-50 minutes (to Farringdon station)
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45-50 minutes (to Victoria train station)
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105 minutes (to Victoria coach station)
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50 minutes (to Liverpool Street station)
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- If you choose to book an airport transfer, your flight details should be sent to us 4 weeks in advance to ensure we will be able to provide you with an airport transfer.
- A driver will meet you after you come through the customs area and drive you to your accommodation.
*Students under 18 years old must book homestay breakfast and dinner & return airport transfers.
What to expect on your first day at school?
On your first day at English Path School:
- Inductions start at 08:45 am (for morning students) and 12:00 pm (for afternoon students).
- This includes a placement test, induction presentations about the school and academic programmes and the distribution of class timetables.
- A tour of the local area.
- Have their picture taken for a Student I.D. card.
- Must complete the emergency contact details & publicity consent form.
- A welcome coffee (midday).
- Classes begin at: 09:15 am (classic morning), 12:45 pm (elective/semi-intensive), and 01:45 pm (classic afternoon).
- On their first day, you are expected to bring your passport and proof of medical insurance.
Can I get an Oyster card?
To get an Oyster card in London, visit a ticket machine or Oyster Ticket Stop at any participating station. Choose the card type (standard or visitor) and load it with credit using cash, card, or contactless payment. Registering the card is optional but can provide added security. Simply touch the card on the yellow reader when starting and ending your journey on buses, trams, the Underground, and other TfL services. Top up as needed and remember that there is a daily fare cap for cost control. For the latest details and any potential updates, check the official TfL website.
How to register with a GP (UK)
- Find a doctor in your local area www.nhs.uk
- Contact the practice and ask to register with them. You will need: your name and address, date of birth, id card / passport and proof of address
- Once registered, you will receive an NHS card. Keep it safe and take it with you when you go to the doctor, dentist or hospital.
Before I arrive in Leeds, what are some important things that I should know and where can I access pre-arrival information?
You can access this information in our student handbooks:
https://www.englishpath.com/ep-leeds-student-handbook/
Where is the nearest NHS walk-in centre?
What are your deposit, payment and refund policies?
We aim to make our booking and cancellation terms clear, fair and easy to understand. We recommend that you follow this link to our Terms and Conditions before paying your fees. We want you to book with confidence. If you have any questions about fees or cancellations, just contact us — we’re happy to help.
How many students will be staying in my homestay?
To ensure a comfortable and supportive environment, we place students in homestays that:
• Host no more than four paying guests in total, including you.
• Have no more than three students or paying guests staying at the same time (including those placed by other organisations).
• Do not host students of the same first language unless this is specifically requested or agreed.
How quickly can I improve my English in Leeds?
To make the most of your language learning and to give yourself the best chance of improving quickly, students should attend their classes everyday and take advantage of the daily social programme events where they have further opportunities to practice their English. Students should be motivated and ready to learn.
Can I work while studying English in Leeds?
Unfortunately, students studying at English Path Leeds are unable to find paid work due to visa restrictions. Students are able to find volunteering opportunities, and can ask the Student Services team for more advice.
What kind of accommodation options are available in Leeds?
We offer homestay and student residence accommodation to meet the needs of all our students.
How much does it cost to live as a student in Leeds?
Leeds is a suitable city for all budgets, from accommodation options to eating and drinking out.
Why should I choose Leeds instead of London?
Leeds allows students to learn and improve their English in a relaxed, friendly environment where the local community are ready to welcome you. In the city centre, everything you need is within walking distance, but Leeds offers reliable public transport for when you it is time to go home. Leeds is also the perfect location to then travel and visit other cities in the UK easily by train or national buses.
Is the area around the EP leeds school safe?
Yes, Leeds is a safe city where students can enjoy themselves in the evenings. We still advise students to keep their personal belongings with them, just like any other city in the world.
Can I apply for paid work or volunteer while I study in Uk?
Yes, inform the student services team and we can help you with changing your course eg. adding electives or extending your course by issuing you a new invoice and confirming the booking once you make the payment either online or in school.
Do you offer IELTS exams in school?
We don't carry out these tests in school, so you would need to book your test at an independent test centre. We do offer IELTS Preparation classes, however, to help you revise and get ready. Please speak to our Director of Studies for more information on this
Is it possible to take the CELTA course at EP Leeds?
Unfortunately not, but EP Birmingham is our centre that offers the CELTA course, perfect for English teachers who are looking to improve their qualifications and obtain the certificate or people with a high level of English who would like to become qualified to teach English.
Does the school have a prayer room EP Leeds?
Yes, there is a prayer room on the ground floor of the building - please ask a member of staff and we will be happy to show you where it is.
Can I buy food/drink in the school?
We have hot drinks machines for tea/coffee/hot chocolate and vending machines for cold drinks and snacks. We are ideally located next to a number of bakeries, cafes and restaurants as well as being a short walk from the city centre. Take advantage of our Neighbourhood Friends where you can receive discounts with your ID card - https://www.englishpath.com/student-life/neighbourhood-friends/
Is this campus pet friendly?
Unfortunately it is not. Only service dogs can be admitted
I need to speak to a doctor. How can I do this?
To make an appoint with a local GP, you must first register with them. You can find more information on the NHS website and find the closest practice to your accommodation - https://www.nhs.uk/service-search/find-a-gp
Where are the nearest airports?
Most of our students fly to Manchester airport and travel by train or National Express bus to Leeds. Student can also choose to fly to Leeds-Bradford airport, which is only 25 minutes from the city centre. You can see which destinations you can fly from to Leeds-Bradford airport here - https://www.leedsbradfordairport.co.uk/destinations
What do I need to bring with me on my first day of study?
You will need to bring the following documents: passport, visa, Booking Confirmation
Can I receive a discount for train travel in the UK?
You can buy a Railcard for £35.00, and this allows you discounted train travel nationally for one year. There are different types to choose from depending on your circumstance - https://www.railcard.co.uk/. Please ask the Student Services team about which option best suits you.
Where do I go on my first day of my course?
When you arrive at the school, please speak to the building's reception team and they will guide you to the induction room, where you will meet the Academic and Student Services team. Please arrive at 08:45am.
I am planning to work remotely while I study, is there space in the school to do this?
We welcome students from across the world who work remotely during their course. We can offer space in our library and study spaces where you can grab a coffee and work. You can speak to the school team when you arrive.
Can I live in student residence accommodation with English Path?
Yes! We have different student residence options to choose from with English Path Leeds. You can speak to your agent/representative about our options, or if you are already studying with us, speak to the Student Services team and book in school!
Which other towns/cities should I visit near Leeds?
Yorkshire has some of the most beautiful locations to visit in the UK, with a mix of historical cities and quaint towns and villages. Places our students love to visit include York, Saltaire, Harrogate, Knaresborough, Whitby and the Yorkshire Dales, to name a few!
What time do shops/cafes/restaurants/bars close in Leeds?
Depending on location, shops and cafes typically close between 6pm and 8pm Monday to Saturday, and between 4pm and 6pm on a Sunday. Restaurants and bars usually stay open later into the evening, and can vary depending on what day you go.
Where is the nearest pharmacy to the EP school Leeds?
There are a number of pharmacies in the city centre, close to the school. The closest pharmacy is a 5 minutes walk from the school in the Merrion shopping centre.
Where are your homestays located?
We have carefully selected homestays across the city. As our homestays typically live outside of the city centre, students should expect to use public transport to travel to school. Average travel time in Leeds is 30-45 minutes but some homestays could be up to 60 minutes travel time.
How can buy a travel card for public transport in UK?
You can buy a one week or one month travel card either at the bus station or through the mCard Mobile app. You can find more information about fees on their website - https://www.m-card.co.uk/
