The first few weeks at university are exciting, busy and occasionally overwhelming. Freshers' week is full of events, fairs and introductions, and then teaching starts and real routines begin. Most new students find the transition takes a little time, which is completely normal. These practical tips can help you settle in and make the most of your first term.
Get the admin done early
Universities usually ask new students to complete online enrolment or registration before or soon after they arrive. Do this as early as you can, and collect your student ID card, since you will need it for the library, buildings and often exams. Register with a local GP surgery near your accommodation rather than waiting until you are unwell. International students should also keep their visa documents safe and follow any instructions the university gives about checks after arrival.
Set up your university email and learning platform straight away. Course announcements, reading lists and timetable changes are normally posted there, and it is easy to miss something important in the first weeks if you are not checking regularly.
Understand how teaching works
University teaching is usually split between lectures, seminars or tutorials, and in some subjects lab sessions or studio time. Lectures give the overview, while seminars are where you discuss the material in smaller groups, so it pays to do the reading beforehand. Many students are surprised by how few contact hours they have compared with school. The time in between is meant for independent study, and the students who treat it as part of their working week tend to find assessment periods much less stressful.
Find out who your personal or academic tutor is and arrange to meet them early on. If you are unsure about referencing, essay writing or exam formats, check whether the library or a study skills team runs sessions for first-year students.
Plan your money from the start
Freshers' week is often the most expensive week of the term. Work out what you have for the term once rent is paid, then decide on a realistic weekly amount for food, travel and going out. A simple spreadsheet or banking app is enough. Student discounts, a railcard if you travel often and cooking together with flatmates can make the money go further. Our guide to student budgeting looks at where entertainment spending tends to go.
Making friends takes time
It can seem as if everyone else found their friends on the first night, but that is rarely true. Friendships often form gradually through your course, your accommodation and the activities you choose. Go to the societies fair and sign up for a few things that genuinely interest you, then keep going after the first session, because that is when groups start to form. If you are sharing a flat, agreeing a few ground rules early can help, and our article on living with flatmates has ideas for keeping things fair.
Look after yourself and ask for help
Feeling homesick or unsettled in the first weeks is very common, including for students who were looking forward to leaving home. Regular sleep, proper meals and some time outdoors make a bigger difference than people expect. Keep in touch with family and old friends, but give your new life a chance too.
If things feel difficult, talk to someone. Your tutor, the students' union advice service and the university wellbeing team are all there to help, and asking early is always easier than waiting until problems build up.
Give yourself time
By the end of the first term most students have found their routine, their favourite places on campus and a group of people they get on with. Be patient with yourself, stay curious and try a few new things. The first weeks are only the beginning.