Daily life in the UK

Find out everything you need to know about day-to-day life living in Birmingham, from where to shop to how to register with a doctor.

Travelling around Birmingham and the UK

Birmingham is a transport hub with lots of travel options. It's easy to use and can easily become part of your daily routine in the UK.

Travel information

Food shopping in the UK

Knowing the best and most affordable place to shop when you arrive in the UK can be overwhelming. Follow our guide to shopping in the UK.

Supermarket guide

Mobile phones

If you continue to use your own mobile phone when you arrive in the UK, you may be charged fees for using your SIM overseas. To avoid this, you can do one of these options.

Using your mobile in the UK

Dos and Don'ts in the UK

There are a lot of new experiences and cultural norms in a new country to adjust to. See 7 cultural norms in the UK to be aware of.

Cultural differences

Student support services

We offer a range of services for all new and continuing students at Birmingham City University so you can feel supported during your time in the UK.

Student support services

Healthcare in the UK

We provide a comprehensive, convenient, NHS* health care service for our current students, who register as a patient with the University health care providers.

Healthcare

What's it like living in Birmingham?

Birmingham sits at the heart of England and is one of the UK’s most exciting student cities. Well-connected, diverse, and full of energy, it offers everything you need to live, study, and thrive. Find out what city life is like in Birmingham.

Useful information

Email us

If you have any questions about applying for a programme, to getting advice about living in Birmingham, drop us an email and our friendly team will follow up with you.

Email us

Request a call

Complete our form below and we'll call you at a convenient time for you. If you can't wait, you can call us on the number below, Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm GMT.

+44 (0)121 331 5389

Request a call back

Social media

Our international social media accounts are a great way to find out more about the University, ask questions and make new friends and contacts. We're active on most social media channels so you've always got a friendly person to speak to.

More about social media

Visit us

If you’re in Birmingham, pop in and ask to speak to the International Office.

  • Birmingham City University
  • Curzon Building
  • 4 Cardigan Street
  • Birmingham B4 7BD
See events on campus

Your country

We have representatives across the world, simply find your country and click on the 'agent' tab to find out who you can speak to in your home town.

View full list of countries