• Avoid flying to the UK via Dublin, Ireland, as it tends to cause problems with immigration into the UK. 

•  Try to book a flight to Heathrow for easier access to Leicester. Airlines to check out include American Airlines, Delta, United, Virgin Atlantic, and British Airways. Leicester staff will reach out to students with information about their airport pick-up service the semester before you arrive. 

•  Purchase airline tickets that permit a “change of date” that is a non-stop flight that offers, at best, free cancellation or a credit to be used at a later date. Purchase tickets directly from the airline rather than a third-party vendor (like Expedia or Travelocity). Holy Cross Travel Credit will appear on your HC tuition bill. Once you’ve secured accommodations and know when you can move-in, then purchase your ticket. 

 As indicated in the Study Abroad Acknowledgement and Release Form, Holy Cross is not responsible for travel expenses, including but not limited to, airline tickets and transportation to and from airports, which result from program suspension or termination, schedule changes, flight changes, emergency evacuation, or any other exigency.  Such expenses are the sole responsibility of the student.

Documents you need to carry on you when you travel:

1. Passport (with UK visa if you’re an academic-year student)

2. Offer Letter or Certificate of Attendance from host institution (print from your email) 

3. Accommodation details (print from your email) 

4. Evidence of private medical health insurance with detailed coverage information (International SOS letter) 

5. Evidence of tuition fees paid, scholarship or sponsorship details or US Financial Aid (HC Affidavit letter) 

6. Bank statement showing enough money to support yourself (i.e., cover the cost of meals) for the UK visa 

You are required to have a cell phone with the app Whatsapp (Wi-Fi/data texting). Whatsapp is an international texting & calling app that our office will use to stay in touch with you. You are not allowed to study abroad without a phone. 

Mobile Phones

• All mobile phones in the UK require a SIM card to connect to a network. If you are bringing a phone from a country that does not require a SIM card, you will need to purchase a SIM card before your phone will work in the UK. SIM cards are attached to a network; there are a number of networks in the UK, most of which have a strong signal. 

• Your current cell phone may have an eSIM, in which case it is possible to add an eSIM with a UK number to your existing phone. Learn how to use an eSIM with an iPhone. 

Unlocking your mobile phone

• There are a number of services online and in stores where this can be organized. You can unlock your phone before arriving in the UK. There are a number of UK mobile networks, including some that are aimed specifically at international students and include reduced rates on international texts or calls. There are two ways to connect to a network: via a pay monthly contract or pay-as-you-go. 

Data charges 

• International students may find that they run up large charges due to using data overseas. Please check with your network provider and disable data roaming when you arrive in the UK if you would like to avoid running up large charges. Use university Wi-Fi and connect with WhatsApp, Skype, FaceTime, or Google Voice. 

• Whatsapp 

Whatsapp is a free international texting & calling app that our office will use to stay in touch with you. Whatsapp operates on wifi, so you can start using WhatsApp the moment you land, even if you don't have an international cell phone plan just yet- all you need is Wi-Fi, which you can connect to at the airport!

• ISOS Assistance App

You are required to download the International SOS Assistance App. You should also press the "Check-In" button any time you are traveling outside of your host city. 

• FREE NOW: This is a taxi service that operates in London, Edinburgh, Nottingham, Oxford, Leicester, Reading, Brighton, Derby, and Manchester. 

• Uber: an alternative to FREE NOW 

• National Rail App and TrainLine: Train service in the UK 

• My Currency Converter: look at prices in USD– helps you keep track of your spending