4 Ways To Prepare For Student Life

Are you heading off to university or college this year?

If so, you may be living away from home for the first time.  Or, you may be taking the first steps to managing your time and money independently.  Whatever your situation, our guide outlines four ways that you can prepare for life as a student.

1. Read all the information sent by your university or college

Your university or college should have sent you an induction pack in advance of starting your course.  It is important that you read this carefully and make notes of when/where things need to be done.

The pack may contain information on how to prepare for your course, dates and times of important events as well as background reading materials and items you will need for your course.

2. Pack carefully

When heading off to university or college it’s important that you pack carefully.  Your information pack is likely to contain a list of items you are likely to need and what items are readily available at your college or university.

Remember that if you plan to take a TV, computer or other device for watching/recording television that you will need a TV licence.

3. Get used to your new surroundings and register for local services

Once you have arrived at your halls of residence or other accommodation it’s important that you familiarise yourself with your surroundings.  Work out where your department is based and where the other key university buildings are located.  You’ll also need to know where you go to sign up for your course.

It’s also useful to register for local services during your first few days.  You should register with the university library and join the Student’s Union (if you have one).  You should also consider registering with a local doctor and dentist and you may need to buy a season ticket or pass for public transport.

4. Sort out your finances

Managing your finances will be one of your biggest challenges as a student.  You should make sure that you have a dedicated student account, ideally with a bank that has a branch near your accommodation or university campus.

If you are working part-time then you may have to pay tax and National Insurance contributions (depending on the amount that you earn) although you may be able to claim a rebate on these at the end of the tax year.  Remember also that if you live in halls of residence or in a house with other students that you shouldn’t have to pay any Council Tax.

If you have any concerns or worries about financial matters, your college or university will have a welfare or support service that can provide advice and guidance.