You'll face a ton of small but important tasks — and each day, more pile up. You need to open a bank account, sort out registration, buy a SIM card, figure out public transport, and remember to eat. Many of these processes are interlinked — you can't get one without the other, and deadlines are ticking. Here's a step‑by‑step guide on how to get organised during the first week and not miss any critical steps.
Once you're out of the terminal, don't take the first taxi you see or head straight to the nearest currency exchange. The best move is to withdraw a small amount of cash from a local bank ATM (not an exchange kiosk), buy a SIM card with data, and get to your accommodation by public transport or an official transfer.
Airport ATMs often charge high fees, but if you only withdraw a small amount, the losses will be minimal. Check the fare for your route in advance so you don't withdraw more than you need.
When you check in, don't sign anything until you've inspected the flat or room. Check that the water, electricity, heating, locks, and appliances all work. Take a short video — it will be your proof if the landlord later tries to blame you for pre‑existing damage.
Ask the landlord or administrator where the bins are, what days rubbish is collected, and whether there are any local rules (e.g., separate waste sorting).
This is the critical stage — each country has its own deadlines and procedures. Here's a quick overview for the most popular destinations:
The general rule: on your first working day, find the local registration authority's website, book an appointment, and go. If you don't speak the language, look for fellow students from your country in local groups — they can point you in the right direction and help with translation.
You'll need a local account for rent, scholarships, and sometimes even to get a SIM card. Choose student accounts — they're almost always free. To open one, you'll usually need your passport, visa, a university enrolment certificate, and, where required, proof of address. In some countries (like Germany), you can start with a digital bank while you wait for your official registration.
Contract plans often require a local bank account or registration. For the first week, get a prepaid SIM — they're available at supermarkets and official mobile operator stores.
Register with your country's embassy — it takes just a few minutes but can be a huge help if you lose your documents or face an emergency. Most countries allow this to be done online.
Find out in advance how the healthcare system works in your country. Install your insurance company's app and save the assistance hotline — they can direct you to the nearest clinic and arrange an interpreter if your policy covers it. Check which medications are available over‑the‑counter — it varies by country. If you have a chronic condition, bring a month's supply and have your prescriptions translated into English.
A single ticket is almost always more expensive. Buy a monthly student pass at the ticket office or through an app — it pays for itself after just a few trips. In some cities, it also gets you discounts on museums and cultural events.
Discount supermarkets are your friends — Aldi, Lidl, Tesco, Walmart, Coles, depending on the country. Learn to read price tags and watch for promotions. Buy a plug adapter — you'll need it within the first few hours, and at the airport you'll pay twice as much as in a regular shop.
The first week is a marathon. Once you've taken care of the essentials, take an hour for yourself and your loved ones. A video call — showing your room, the view from the window, saying everything is fine — will ease your family's anxiety. Finally: save the emergency services numbers. Keep them handy, even if you never need them.