International student experience
Each year we welcome one of the largest international student populations in the UK to our University.
We’ve collected the key information you need on obtaining a visa, travelling to Manchester and understanding our healthcare system.
Your next steps
Attend our online sessions for international students, including Get Ready Live, our pre-departure show for all international students:
- Postgraduate accommodation – Tuesday, 14 April
- Undergraduate accommodation – Monday, 27 April
- Your Career – several from February to April
- Your New City – Wednesday, 6 May and Tuesday, 12 May
- Your Supporters – parents and family Q&A – Thursday, 21 March
- Get Ready Live – Monday, 11 May; Tuesday, 9 June; Monday, 15 June; Friday, 3 July; Thursday, 23 July
- Visa deep dive – Monday, 18 May; Tuesday, 16 June; Wednesday, 8 July
- Your Students' Union: What To Know Before Starting University – Thursday, 16 July; Tuesday, 18 August; Wednesday, 26 August
Navigating the UK job market for the first time can feel overwhelming. Whatever your area of study and career goals, our Careers Service is here to support you. They provide information and guidance on the UK jobs market, work experience and part-time jobs, and your options for finding employment after you graduate.
In addition to guidance, the Careers Service runs events for international students on campus and online, one-to-one appointments, interview practice, CV reviews and much more.
Visit the Careers Service Visit the Careers Service for pre-arrival information
Moving to a new country can be daunting. Part of Manchester’s Students' Union, the International Society is here to help our students settle into university life, meet new people and make new friends. It also hosts events and day trips throughout the year, providing you with the opportunity to explore more of the UK and try new things.
The International Society is based on campus and hosts regular socials at the Students' Union.
International Student Support at the Students' Union
Moving to a new country can be daunting. Manchester’s Students' Union has a dedicated service to support international students settle into student life, get to know Manchester, and make new friends.
It also hosts weekly socials and regular trips, as well as activities like the Global Buddies scheme and the International Orientation Programme.
To learn more about what's on offer from the Students' Union, please visit the international section of their website.
International students can use Manchester Student Homes - a free, university-run service - to find safe, accredited private accommodation and get expert housing support.
Manchester Student Homes
The service lists approved landlords and properties, offers house-hunting tools and provides independent advice, helping you understand tenancy agreements before you commit.
Dedicated guidance for international students explains how to search for housing before and after arriving in Manchester, including arranging temporary accommodation, viewing properties in person, and ensuring deposits and contracts follow UK standards.
Manchester Student Homes also promotes the International Friendly Standard, which recognises landlords and providers who offer fair, transparent conditions tailored to international students - such as flexible payment options and no requirement for a UK guarantor.
The service works closely with universities and local partners to support international student safety, offering advice on welfare, community living, and staying secure in private accommodation.
Your questions answered
We have plenty more information to help your transition as a Manchester student go smoothly. Browse the additional resources below to find out more.