Guidance on Bringing Dependants for PhD Students

At WorldStudentAdvisors, we understand that many PhD students wish to bring their dependants while they study abroad. We aim to help you make well-informed decisions about the best approach for long-term success. We recommend that students travel alone initially to enrol, settle into the new environment, and then, perhaps a month or two later, bring their family over. This approach has proven effective, with many students later expressing appreciation for the advice, acknowledging that arriving alone initially allowed for a smoother transition.

Why We Recommend Traveling Alone First

Settling into a New Environment

The UK has a distinct culture, climate, and lifestyle. By travelling alone, you can focus on enrolling, adapting, and starting your studies without the added pressures of family responsibilities during this critical adjustment period.

Finding Suitable Accommodation

Securing appropriate housing for a family can be challenging without seeing properties in person. Arranging this from abroad involves risks, including securing a guarantor and committing to a property you haven't seen. Once in the UK, you can explore local options firsthand, ensuring they meet your family’s needs.

Educational Requirements for Children

If you have children, UK law mandates that those under 16 must be in school and those aged 16–18 should be in vocational education. Locating suitable schools, determining their proximity to your residence, and understanding the application process requires your presence in the UK. These arrangements can only begin after you have secured your visa and enrolled in university.

Additional Costs and Logistics

Bringing family members also covers extra flights, visa fees, and health surcharge costs. While World Student Advisors offers free visa support for students, there is a charge for assisting with dependants’ visas.

Accommodation Limitations

While Aberystwyth University, for instance, provides free accommodation for students, this offer applies only to the students and not their families.

In Conclusion

Travelling to the UK alone initially can help you focus on your studies, adapt to your new surroundings, and prepare effectively for your family’s arrival. Since a PhD programme typically spans three years with an additional three-year post-study visa, delaying your family’s arrival for a short period can be beneficial. If you only plan to bring a spouse, you might consider travelling together if it suits your needs.

WorldStudentAdvisors values transparency and wants you to make the best choice based on your circumstances. We’re here to support you in every way we can as you begin this important journey.