UCAS - Preparation

Preparing for life at university or college

Here are some of the things for your students to think about before starting at university or college.

Finances

Making sure that their finances are sorted before they leave for university or college is vital. They don't want to end up with serious difficulties regarding paying for essentials such as accommodation (if not taken care of already), food, bills, and course books and equipment.

Insurance & TV licence

They should make sure any legal issues are taken care of. They should insure their possessions in case the worst happens - many insurers offer special policies for students.

Accommodation

Checking the suitability of their accommodation is vital as well as knowing how and when it needs to be paid for. Also check if the cost of accommodation includes electricity, gas, water and insurance.

Transport

Knowing how to get to and from university or college is important, because being late will not make a good impression on the lecturers. Your students should check bus and train timetables or use a map to find a good route if walking.

Preliminary reading

Check whether there is anything they need to do before attending their first lecture. Reading lists and initial tasks are often sent before the start of term.

Things to take

Items that they need at university or college may include, for example, course books/equipment, TV, stereo, bed linen, cooking equipment and toiletries. They should start writing a list of things to take well in advance to avoid forgetting anything.

Electoral register

It may be the first year that they are eligible to vote or they may have voted before. Either way, your students are usually able to register to vote at both their home address and their term-time address. Visit www.aboutmyvote.co.uk for more information.