What is it being an international student in UK, especially London!

I knew this post was coming down the lane. Actually I was planning to write it way back in January, but just got away with it. Okay here is a brief history of why I am writing this blog entry. I came to London to do my masters in computing from University of Greenwich. Since I graduated back in 2006, I have been receiving lots of mails, from prospective students about how it is to study and stay in London. Initially I replied their questions on a one to one basis, but then I thought it is too much of efforts, and it would be better for everyone if I just write something at this place. So if some one asks me anything, I can direct their questions to this blog, which could be a one stop reference point for future students.
Okay then, first thing first. The moment you take a decision to study in UK in a university, make it very sure in your mind, it is going to be a costly affair. The education in UK at a higher level is one of the costliest around the world, but quality has its price. Most of the time people compare being a student in US and the same here, but it is not fair. The masters in US is for two years, which you are suppose to complete in UK in just one year over two semesters. Also while you are studying in the second semester, you have to start working on your project and/or dissertations.
So the point here is even though it is very costly to study and maintain yourself, it is virtually impossible to do a part time job and sustain your self. In best case, you will be able to work and manage your petty expenses, but if you think of paying your fees on your own, then London or frankly speaking UK is not the right option.
And then coming to the job scenario, we as Indians, are hard working lot, and this quality is highly appreciated in London. You should be thankful to your predecessors over here, and make sure you maintain the legacy. But then getting a job is not that easy, as you have to manage to cut the red tape at all the junctions, starting from getting your national insurance card, to opening a bank account, to getting your term times sorted from the university or college. This is not to discourage you here, but just to make sure, you realise the pitfalls before you actually step in.
That is the story of once you arrive here, but what should you do before that? Firstly do not trust your immigration consultant for whatever he says. There have been numerous occasions, when students paid a huge sum of fees, only to discover that the college does not exist over here. Not only you loose your money, it is illegal to stay in UK on a student visa in such case. So do check before hand. British Library or British Embassy near your home should be a perfect friend in such a case. If still in doubt, visit http://www.direct.gov and find out whether the college or university is authorised to take an international student on that particular course. You would be saving yourself a big shock by doing this check before hand.
Once you applied and received your admission and visa, plan for accommodation. Most of the universities has international student office, which help student find accommodation, if you wish not to stay on campus. For me, campus accommodation is the best option, as you make lots of friends from different cultures, and enjoy the most of the student life. The first thing you do as you join the university is get registered with a local GP and get a bank account. Abrupt changes in climate does take a toll on your body, and you don't want to stay in troubled water without NHS registration. Once that is done, visit the student rep, and ask him how should you start up things. One advantage of living in campus accommodation, is that you can attend student parties in the student union bar, yes you read it correctly. Apparently beer and chicken tikka masala has been woven very deep into the British fabric.
I guess this is a pretty long entry. I would write the next entry as to how to go about searching jobs, and surviving the home sickness. Till then keep reading and visiting.