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Student Blog Squad

Landing at Leeds Beckett - What to expect as an international student

My name is Lavanya, and I’m an international student from India. I’m currently pursuing my Masters in Business Administration, a decision that marked the beginning of an exciting new chapter in my life.

Written By

Lavanya

Published on 16 Feb 2026

Let me start with this: sometimes the most uncertain beginnings lead to the biggest growth.

Leaving home is never simple. You leave behind family, familiar routines, your comfort zone and the version of yourself that has always felt safe there. The day I left my home country was an emotional whirlwind: tight hugs at the airport, tears I tried to hold back, and a quiet nervousness about stepping into the unknown.

But somewhere between the departure gate and watching my suitcase disappear on the conveyor belt, something shifted. The nerves slowly made space for excitement. Ahead of me was a new city, new opportunities, new people, and a life I was about to build on my own terms.

That blend of fear and hope stayed with me all the way to Leeds marking the beginning of one of the most defining transitions of my life.

Before your arrival

Good planning can make your first steps much smoother.

When booking your flight, remember to arrange the free arrival coach service offered by LBU Global Village from Manchester or Leeds Bradford Airport to your accommodation. After a long international journey, having transport organised in advance removes the added stress of navigating an unfamiliar country while tired.

A few things to keep in mind:

Check luggage restrictions carefully to avoid last-minute issues at the airport.
Keep all essential documents easily accessible: your passport, visa, and any supporting paperwork to ensure a smooth immigration process.
Avoid overpacking. No matter where you’re travelling from, you’ll find convenience stores in Leeds where you can buy anything you need.

Preparation won’t take away the emotions of leaving home, but it will give you clarity, control, and confidence as you begin your journey.

Arrival day

Landing in the UK felt surreal. It was my first time in a completely new country without knowing anyone personally and yet, I didn’t feel alone for long.

Because I had booked the arrival coach, I was able to stay in contact with the team as soon as I landed, which made a huge difference. After a long journey, that simple coordination brought immediate reassurance. Seeing the ambassadors in their purple hoodies felt like a small but powerful comfort, a reminder that someone was there to guide me to my new home.

The coach ride itself was calm and welcoming. It was my first real glimpse of the city, and I had the chance to speak with ambassadors who had once been in my exact position. Hearing their experiences and advice made everything feel more manageable. In that moment, the unknown didn’t feel so intimidating anymore.

Settling in during your first week

The first week is a blend of excitement, jet lag, and figuring out how everything works.

From collecting my BRP to understanding public transport and finding nearby places for essentials, every small task felt like a milestone. Of course, I needed help along the way and that’s where the Global Village team and university support services made a real difference. They were approachable, patient, and always willing to guide me, which made settling in far less overwhelming.

Welcome Week is something I’d strongly recommend embracing fully. Global Village organises a variety of sessions and activities, all listed on the university website and social media channels. These typically include:

City walks and trips
Group activities to meet other students
Sessions on shopping essentials, transport, and settling into Leeds
Guidance on accommodation, safety, and student life

Attending these sessions helped me feel informed, connected, and more confident navigating my new surroundings. It’s the perfect opportunity to build your first friendships and ease yourself into life in Leeds.

Accommodation

Accommodation is often one of the biggest concerns for international students, and understandably so.

Leeds Beckett University works closely with Unipol to support students in finding suitable housing. You can reach out to them before you arrive or even after you’re in Leeds if you’re still considering your options. Welcome Week sessions also provide helpful guidance on accommodation, which can make the process feel far less daunting.

Simply knowing that support is available makes the transition into a new city much smoother and more reassuring.

Personal reflections

What surprised me most was how quickly the unfamiliar began to feel familiar. I had prepared myself for the practical challenges, but I hadn’t anticipated the emotional layers - pride, fear, homesickness, and personal growth all unfolding at the same time.

I was also struck by the kindness around me. From student ambassadors to classmates who were just as unsure as I was, there was a quiet sense of solidarity. We were all navigating something new, and that shared experience made it easier.

What helped me most was the structure and support available - organised arrivals, clear guidance, and constant reassurance that I was on the right track. If there’s one thing I wish I’d understood earlier, it’s this: you don’t have to be strong all the time. Settling in takes time. There’s no deadline. Acknowledge the small wins, be patient with yourself, and allow the process to unfold.

Trust the journey

Arriving in Leeds wasn’t just about moving to a new country it was about discovering a braver, more independent version of myself. Yes, it can feel overwhelming. Yes, you’ll miss home. But alongside that comes growth, new friendships, and the chance to create a life you once only dreamed of.

If you’re getting ready for this journey, remember: you are supported, you are capable, and every step of this experience is worth it. Your story is just beginning.