Introduction
United Medical and Dental Schools, Guy's and St Thomas's Hospitals (UMDS) is one of the UK’s most prestigious institutions for medicine and dentistry. In 2026 the campus welcomes over 2,000 international students, each bringing a unique cultural perspective to the clinical learning environment. This international student guide walks you through every stage – from the moment you land in London to the point where you feel at home on campus.
Pre‑Arrival Checklist
What to complete before you board the plane
- Secure a Tier 4 (Student) visa – allow at least 8 weeks for processing.
- Confirm your place in university accommodation or arrange private housing.
- Pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) to access NHS services.
- Register with the UMDS International Office via the online portal.
- Order a UK SIM card or an international roaming plan.
- Gather essential documents: passport, CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies), proof of funds, English language test results.
Student Visa & Immigration Essentials
The UK student visa is the cornerstone of your legal stay. Follow these steps:
- Eligibility: You must have an unconditional offer from UMDS, meet the English language requirement (IELTS 6.5 overall, with no less than 6.0 in any component), and demonstrate sufficient funds (£1,334 per month for living costs).
- Application: Apply online via the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) website, upload your CAS, and book a biometric appointment.
- Post‑arrival: Collect your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) within 10 days of arrival.
👉 Pro Tip: Keep a digital copy of all visa documents on your phone for quick reference at border control.
Arrival Day – First Impressions
When you step off the plane at Heathrow or Gatwick, UMDS has a dedicated arrival team to help you navigate the city and campus.
Key activities on Arrival Day
- Meet the International Student Welcome Desk in the main atrium.
- Collect your student ID, library card, and welcome pack.
- Attend the mandatory immigration check‑in.
- Join the campus bus shuttle to your accommodation.
- Participate in the welcome coffee with senior faculty and senior international students.
Orientation & Academic Induction
Orientation runs for the first week of term and is designed to integrate you into both academic and social life.
Orientation Highlights
- Academic workshops on clinical skills, simulation labs, and research opportunities.
- Sessions on UK academic culture, assessment methods, and plagiarism policies.
- Campus tours covering the teaching hospitals, libraries, and student hubs.
- Meet‑and‑greet events with student societies, including the International Medical Society.
Accommodation Options & Weekly Budgets
| Accommodation Type | Location | Average Weekly Cost (GBP) | Key Features |
|---|
| University Hall (Standard) | Southwark Campus | £165 | All‑inclusive, en‑suite, 24‑hr security |
| University Hall (Premium) | St Thomas’ Campus | £210 | Private kitchen, study lounge, gym access |
| Private Rental (Shared Flat) | Clapham / Bermondsey | £250 | Full kitchen, independent utilities, transport links |
| Private Rental (Studio) | Central London | £340 | Self‑contained, higher rent, closer to city centre |
Remember to budget for utilities, internet, and a weekly grocery bill of roughly £40‑£60.
Student Support Services
UMDS prides itself on a holistic support system:
- Academic Support: Dedicated tutors, peer‑mentoring schemes, and the Academic Skills Centre.
- Pastoral Care: 24/7 counselling, mental‑health workshops, and a multicultural advisory team.
- Career Services: CV clinics, mock interviews, and placement opportunities in NHS trusts.
"The Academic Skills Centre helped me master clinical note‑taking – a skill I now use daily in the wards." - Luis, Medical Student from BrazilLiving in London: Practical Tips
Transport & Getting Around
- Purchase an Oyster card – weekly cap for zones 1‑2 is £42.80.
- Use the TfL app for real‑time bus and tube updates.
- Consider a Santander Cycle membership for short trips.
👉 Pro Tip: Many student societies organise free or discounted group trips to museums and cultural events – a great way to explore on a budget.
Health & Wellbeing
As an international student, you are automatically enrolled in the NHS after paying the IHS. Register with a local GP within two weeks of arrival. UMDS also runs a Student Health Centre offering:
- Free vaccinations (flu, COVID‑19 boosters).
- Dental check‑ups for dental students.
- Wellness workshops covering stress management and nutrition.
Safety and Legal Matters
London is a safe city, but standard precautions apply:
- Keep your passport and BRP in a secure place.
- Never share your immigration status with strangers.
- Report any suspicious activity to Campus Security (available 24/7).
Social Life, Clubs & Societies
Joining a society is the fastest route to a sense of belonging. UMDS hosts over 80 clubs, including:
- International Medical Students Association (IMSA)
- Dental Outreach Programme – community dental clinics in South London
- Sports clubs – rugby, rowing, and yoga
- Cultural societies – African, Asian, Latin American student groups
"Through the IMSA, I found a mentor who guided me through my first clinical placement and introduced me to the city’s hidden gems." - Priya, Medical Student from IndiaAcademic Life & Clinical Rotations
UMDS follows a blended curriculum of pre‑clinical lectures, problem‑based learning (PBL), and early clinical exposure. Key points for international students:
- Attend mandatory clinical skills workshops before your first hospital rotation.
- Familiarise yourself with the NHS electronic health record system (EMIS).
- Take advantage of the language support programme if you need medical terminology reinforcement.
Financial Management
Beyond accommodation, typical weekly expenses for a student in London are:
| Expense Category | Average Weekly Cost (GBP) |
|---|
| Transport (Oyster weekly cap) | £42.80 |
| Food & Groceries | £55 |
| Study Materials & Printing | £10 |
| Leisure & Socialising | £30 |
| Miscellaneous (laundry, phone) | £15 |
Most students find a part‑time job (up to 20 hours/week) in campus cafés or research labs to supplement their budget.
Final Thoughts – From Arrival to Belonging
Transitioning to life at United Medical and Dental Schools, Guy's and St Thomas's Hospitals is a journey that blends academic rigour with vibrant city living. By following this guide, you’ll arrive prepared, navigate visa and orientation smoothly, secure suitable accommodation, and quickly embed yourself in the supportive UMDS community.
Remember, the university’s student support teams are there to help you every step of the way – from academic challenges to personal wellbeing. Embrace the experience, connect with peers, and make the most of the world‑class clinical training that awaits you.
FAQs – United Medical and Dental Schools, Guy's and St Thomas's Hospitals for International Students 2026: From Arrival Day to Settling Into Campus Life
Q1: When should I apply for my UK student visa to ensure I arrive on time for the September 2026 intake?
It is recommended to submit your Tier 4 (Student) visa application at least 12 weeks before your course start date. Processing times can vary, so applying early reduces the risk of delays.
Q2: Can I bring my family with me while I study at UMDS?
Yes, you can apply for a Dependant Visa for a spouse or children under 18. They will need to meet financial requirements and will have limited work rights.