Emergency Numbers to Know Immediately
999 — genuine emergencies only (police, ambulance, fire). 111 — NHS non-emergency medical advice. 101 — police non-emergency line, for reporting crimes that aren't in progress. Save all three in your phone on your first day, and know your university's own campus security number too.
General Personal Safety
- Stick to well-lit, populated routes when walking at night, particularly in unfamiliar areas
- Use registered taxi services or ride-hailing apps rather than unlicensed minicabs
- Keep valuables (phone, laptop) out of clear view in public, particularly on public transport
- Most UK university campuses have free late-night safety escort or shuttle services — use them
Common Scams Targeting International Students
Be alert to accommodation scams (never pay a deposit for a property you haven't viewed, ideally in person or via a verified agent), fake job offers requesting upfront payment, and phone/email scams impersonating UKVI, HMRC, or your bank requesting urgent payment or personal details. Legitimate UK organisations do not ask for payment via gift cards or urgent bank transfers over the phone.
University Support Services
Every UK university has a dedicated international student support office and a free counselling service. These teams handle everything from visa questions to personal safety concerns and are specifically trained to support students far from home — don't hesitate to use them; they exist precisely for situations like these.
Keep reading: Pre-departure checklist · UK cost of living in NPR · Student life in the UK page