So you’ve done the hard work to get in…now make sure you are fully prepared!

Before you leave for university…

Money stuff…

Ensure you open a bank account (all you need is confirmation of your place), it will be the last thing on your mind when you arrive. If it’s a new account ensure you update your details on the Student Finance Website so the money goes into the right account!

Consider branch location when you open a new account. Finding out there isn’t a local branch when you get there or when you need to pop in to extend your overdraft isn’t going to fun!

Make sure all the evidence Student Finance has asked for has been sent to them. There is nothing worse than arriving at university and being short on money because your loan isn’t sorted. (All I can say in my case is thank goodness for bank of Mum & Dad!)

University

Most universities publish there Freshers’ week schedules on their website (or the student unions.) Make sure you check these so you can plan what you want to do. But also so you can budget a little!

The Majority of universities will send you a reading list after you have confirmed your place with them. Don’t go out and buy them all the books! I lived on taking the books out from the university library and then constantly renewing them, some I had for over a year! (Online renewal was a godsend!) If you do want to buy the books look online on places such as Ebay and Amazon.

Accommodation

Make sure you have everything you need e.g. bedding, pots & pans etc. Our guide here may help. Be sure you check with any accommodation guidelines as to what you can’t take with you.

Consider security marking your property. (A lot of universities/student unions arrange sessions where you can bring your valuables in and the police will help you mark your property.)

Make sure you have everything you need to collect your keys/door card e.g. ID such as driving license, passport or other documents (your accommodation provider will let you know what you need to bring.)