For students from Mongolia who may be considering studying abroad in the UK, I can say that Belfast is a good choice. After living in multiple different cities for undergrad and travelling for work and pleasure all around, I have found the city to be calm and student friendly. The university and the city host a supportive environment for students to easily adjust to life overseas while completing your studies. 

Why I chose Queen’s and my course

I found out about Queen’s from an education fair in Mongolia. The university appealed to me because it offered quality education in a safe and affordable city. I studied and lived in South Korea and the States before and always wanted to know what the UK was like. So far, I’ve had amazing experiences with the programme and all the different events and clubs the university offers. The most recent event I’ve attended was the Graduate Festive Celebration, it was perfect because it was a nice way to take a break from studying for finals, especially when it involved s’mores and mulled wine.

The Graduate School

My welcome and orientation experience

I’ve travelled for over 2 days to get to Belfast. From Ulaanbaatar to Frankfurt and Frankfurt to London and London to Belfast, it was a long and tiring experience. My transit time in London was for 15 hours but I took this opportunity to go into the city and meet my friend. We walked around Soho and went to King’s Cross (of course) to see Platform 9¾. 

Once I was in Belfast, I checked into an Airbnb first as my student accommodation check-in time was the day after. It was easy and simple because I had everything ordered beforehand from UniKitOut. From kitchen utensils to beddings, it really made settling in easy. The Student Accommodation team was nice enough to have it delivered directly into my room. 

At Queen's Business School, Riddel Hall

During induction week, the university organises club fairs and welcome events. The university has more than 240 student clubs and societies, there is something for everyone! Moreover, at the beginning of the semester, there are organised events such as an IKEA run and sightseeing tours. I wasn’t able to sign up for those as the seats fill out fairly quickly, but I would definitely recommend it not only to meet people but also to help settle in. 

Student life at Queen’s 

I’m a member of Archery Club. I had to complete the beginner course before becoming a full-time member. It is for 2 hours, and I always wanted to try archery but if you are not interested that’s okay. There are plenty of other clubs and societies at the university.

At Queen's Sport

In my spare time, I like to hang out with friends at BT1. Whether it is in the common room playing pool or ping pong or at my friend’s place, I like to catch up with friends because as a grad student, you are always busy. 

Tips for students from Mongolia considering Queen’s

Be ready for the weather. It rains a lot here, so always carry an umbrella with you or wear a raincoat. It is not as cold as it is back in Ulaanbaatar but it is so windy. Bring warm clothes like wool or cashmere, especially for late fall and winter. As for studies, it goes really fast, as master’s programme in the UK is only for a year. Plan ahead and work closely with your professors for feedback and tips for assignments and work opportunities. 

Attend university organised events. The university posts trips of the month at the end of every month. From Belfast Castle to day to trips to Dublin and Londonderry there are numerous trips students sign up to. It is usually around £4 for a trip, just make sure to sign up quickly because it fills up pretty fast. 

At Kilbroney Park

Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. There are people here from all over the world. Everyone has a unique story to tell and so do you. Attend events and join clubs, it is the best way to make friends. 

Travel outside of Belfast, whether to the mainland or to Europe take this opportunity to see and learn as much as possible. Flying from Belfast to those locations is straightforward and affordable. However, one thing to note is applying for Schengen visa. I applied through France and the visa processing centre is only in Edinburgh, Manchester, and London.

So, I would plan ahead and look at appointment times because it fills up fast. But don’t worry about flying to and back to Belfast because for domestic flights some airlines don’t ask for passports. I flew with just my student ID, just check with the airline. 

Find out more

Take a Virtual Tour of Queen's

Information for students from Mongolia

Things to See and Do on Campus

Top 5 University Experiences You Should Not Miss Out on at Queen’s

Nomuun Delgersaikhan MSc Marketing | Postgraduate Taught Student | Mongolia Hi! I’m Nomuun. I’m 24 years old and I’m from Mongolia.  I love walking around campus to find hidden spots for studying and hanging out with friends. Belfast and the university have a lot to offer. My favourite place to study is at the Graduate School’s silent study room. They have free coffee and tea on weekdays and stunning views of the university.  Outside of school, I like to go to pubs with my friends on the weekends. There is always something new do to. I hope this short blog helps new incoming students what to expect at the university and in Belfast!