{"id":7509,"date":"2026-08-26T09:16:14","date_gmt":"2026-08-26T09:16:14","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogs.imperial.ac.uk\/student-blogs\/?p=7509"},"modified":"2026-08-26T09:16:14","modified_gmt":"2026-08-26T09:16:14","slug":"pre-arrival-checklist-for-starting-at-imperial","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blogs.imperial.ac.uk\/student-blogs\/2026\/08\/26\/pre-arrival-checklist-for-starting-at-imperial\/","title":{"rendered":"Pre-arrival checklist for starting at Imperial"},"content":{"rendered":"

Written by Judy, PhD Civil Engineering<\/em><\/p>\n

Moving to London to start university is a thrilling milestone, but those final one to six weeks before boarding your flight can feel a little overwhelming \u2013 I know that feeling all too well.<\/p>\n

I first moved from China to London to complete my undergraduate degree in Civil and Environmental Engineering at Imperial. After heading across the Atlantic to New York University for my Master\u2019s, I found myself drawn right back to Imperial, where I am now in the second year of my PhD in the very same department!<\/p>\n

Having made this transition multiple times, I\u2019ve learned that landing smoothly isn’t about packing everything you own \u2013 it\u2019s about getting a few key essentials in order before you arrive.<\/p>\n

Here is my practical pre-arrival checklist to help you turn those pre-departure nerves into genuine excitement for your journey to Imperial:<\/p>\n

1. Get familiar with the academic side of things<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Before the term officially kicks off, visit your department\u2019s website and check your inbox for welcome emails. Take a look at your course structure, modules and induction week schedule. If your department has provided recommended pre-reading, dip into it at your own pace. If not, don’t worry \u2013 you can always search for key module topics on YouTube or introductory articles to get a head start, so you can feel confident from day one.<\/p>\n

2. Research living costs and plan your budget<\/strong><\/h3>\n

London is an incredible city, but living costs can easily catch you off guard if you only plan for tuition and rent. Take some time to look up everyday expenses like groceries, dining out and TfL transport (Tube and buses). Draft a realistic monthly budget, think about how you\u2019ll support yourself financially and prepare your funds in advance.<\/p>\n

3. Set up a bank account and UK SIM card in advance<\/strong><\/h3>\n

You\u2019ll likely need to pay for transport and food quite soon after you\u2019ve arrived in the UK, so setting up your method of payment in advance and having a local SIM card that keeps you connected are important.<\/p>\n