Preparing for university
Packing, money, housing and the admin to sort before term. Parents can also find helpful guidance in our For Parents section.
Accommodation planning
Halls vs private housing
Compare university managed halls with private rentals to find the best fit for your first year.
Accommodation costs
A breakdown of rent, deposits and utilities to help you understand your housing budget.
Moving checklist
Ensure you have everything ready for a stress free move to your university city.
What to bring
A focused list of the absolute essentials you need for your university room.
Life skills & setup
Cooking basics
Simple and affordable recipes to help you eat well on a student budget.
Setting up accounts
How to handle utilities, broadband and other essential services in your new home.
Basic home skills
Practical advice for managing laundry, cleaning and basic household maintenance.
Technology checklist
The hardware and software essentials required for modern university studies.
Independent living
Tips for managing your time and responsibilities when living away from home.
Travel & discounts
How to set up your railcards and student discount accounts for maximum savings.
Money before university
Budget planner
Plan your finances before term starts with our dedicated student budget tool.
Student finance overview
Everything you need to know about loans, tuition fees, and financial support.
Hidden starting costs
Uncovering the extra expenses that often surprise students in their first weeks.
Banking setup
How to find and open the best student bank accounts with the most useful perks.
Maintenance loan guide
Understanding exactly how your maintenance loan works and when it is paid.
Avoiding overspending
Smart financial habits to help your money last throughout the entire term.
Social & lifestyle preparation
Freshers week prep
How to make the most of your first week on campus while staying organised.
Making friends
Helpful advice for building new social circles and meeting like minded people.
Staying safe at events
Practical safety tips for enjoying university social events and nights out.
Balancing social life
Finding the right mix between your academic studies and your new social life.
Mental health prep
Resources and strategies for maintaining your wellbeing during the transition.
Student life expectations
Realities of university life versus common myths to help you prepare mentally.
Related sections
Related sections.
University applications
Still sorting your UCAS application, and our step-by-step guides walk you through every stage.
Student money and finance
Tuition loans, maintenance loans, budgeting apps and everything else you need to feel in control.
Life at university
A practical look at societies, wellbeing, friendships and making uni work for you.
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