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FromHighSchooltoUni answers your questions on moving to university and student life
Welcome to the FAQ page of FromHighSchooltoUni, the ultimate site for students who are preparing to move to university and start their academic journey.
Here, you will find answers to some of the most common questions that students have about university life and how to make the transition as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Whether you need help with assembling the right documents, packing your essentials and extras, budgeting your money, shopping for groceries and supplies, cooking healthy and delicious meals, or anything else related to student life, we have you covered with our expert guidance and resources.
Browse through the categories below to find the answers you are looking for, or use the search box to type in your query. If you can’t find what you need, feel free to contact us and we will do our best to assist you. Remember, moving to university is an exciting and rewarding experience that you will cherish for a lifetime. With FromHighSchooltoUni, you can make it even better!
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Documents Required for UniversityImportant documents you will need to take to university include: Student ID number University admission acceptance letter Course acceptance letter Accommodation contract Passport (and valid visa documents) Driving licence Student Finance documents Scholarship or bursary confirmation Contents Insurance Passport photos
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When do I get my student card?This will depend on your university. You should get your university student card either on: Arrival Move-in day During Freshers Week. Keep the student card safe, and also take a photo of it to keep in your phone in case it gets lost. Your Student ID may also serve as an access badge that can give you access to buildings around campus. It will also be key to obtaining student discounts in shops, restaurants, cinema, concerts, etc. so keep it safe and on you at all times!
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How can I open a bank account?Once you have received your Student ID, a registered residential address (student accommodation confirmation letter), and you have your passport, you can go to any bank and ask to open a student bank account. Do your research first and read the small print. Chapter 2 of our book From High School to Uni goes into great detail on opening a bank account - order your copy in the Shop tab on our website. Check out the Glossary of Banking Terms in our Member Resources to understand better the terminology used by banks.
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Managing Your Living Allowance And Expenses?This answer varies to each individual personal financial situation and managing it may vary from person to person in different scenarios: a) Parents pay for the accommodation rent, and living allowance. Student contributes with part-time job or savings. b) Students get a student loan - the amount of which can vary. This may cover the entire amount of accommodation AND living allowance, or This may cover accommodation costs only and the student gets a job to cover living expenses. c) Student loan covers accommodation or living allowance, and parents contribute the rest. A general rule of thumb, if parents contribute, is that they may cover food and travel (and accommodation), but for social life expenses, the student needs to get a job and cover these themselves.
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Are university open days a good representation of the place?Open days are a good opportunity for new students to visit a university campus before they make the final decision. But it's not essential. You can walk around freely or follow a specific guided tour, attend taster lectures, find out more about the programme that you're considering. Moreover, visit a typical student residence, find out the location of local shops, bars, amenities, etc. It is also useful to use this as a trial run to test the transport and travel situation in relation to the journey home. Sometimes factors such as crowds, weather, transport problems, an annoying tour guide, a closed cafeteria, uncomfortable shoes for walking around campus, and other such incidents can negatively affect one's first impression of the place. Overall, it's helpful to see if it's a good fit for you, although many people don't and still thrive in their university environment. Keep an open mind! If you want to get more details related to open day activities, do read our From High School to Uni.
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How can I start preparing for University?Order the book "From High School to Uni" obvs! This is a one-stop shop detailing everything from pre-departure to surviving and thriving on campus and beyond. Take our FREE course on Budgeting Basics: Check out our free resources tab and start creating a budget, together with your parents to figure out your living allowance needs and income to cover expenses. Facebook groups: Usually there will be set-up groups on Facebook that you can join for your university. Whether that be for your course, your accommodation or just a general freshers chat. This way you can find your flatmates early and start chatting to your coursemates. YouTube video tours of your accommodation: Once you have started researching the accommodation options onsite, you can usually look up the 360 tours posted by accommodation companies, so you can think about what to bring and what will fit in your room. Student Ambassadors: Ask any questions you have to the student ambassadors of the university you've chosen. You should find these on the university website or social media. WhatsApp groups: Once you have found out your course group, and even your new house-mates details, you can start or join a whatsapp group to ask questions, figure out who's bringing what so you don't all end up bring a toaster each! Book your Freshers Week ticket!: There may be deadlines to buy your Freshers Week all-inclusive ticket by a certain date, so don't miss out. You may not need or want to participate it in everything, but check out the details. You'll enjoy the freebies given out during FW - pens, hats, pizza coupons, etc. Look for a job: Start researching job sites if you need to contribute to your living expenses. Companies will no doubt be looking for replacement staff to take over graduates who have moved on, so update your CV and learn how to successfully do an interview! Learn to cook a few dishes so you don't starve, and go food shopping with your parents to get an idea of how to shop on a budget. Learn how to do your laundry and make a bed too! These are 'skills' you will need to know before departure!
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What should I pack for university?Essential items to pack include: bedding, towels, toiletries, clothes, laptop, a small first aid kit, and any personal items that will make you feel at home. Most other things you can buy onsite or order online to be delivered to your accommodation, if permitted. Subscribe to our Member Resources to access a library of invaluable packing lists, checklists, budget plan, meal planning guidance and much more.
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When should I start packing for university?Start preparing at least three weeks before you head off to uni, to allow yourself time to identify what you have, or what you need to buy or order to be delivered direct to your uni accommodation. Subscribe to our Member Resources to access the essential packing lists, and much more.
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What are some tips for travelling to university?When travelling to university, pack light and plan your trip well in advance. Research your route, particularly if combining flights with public transport to calculate the timing of departure times of planes, trains, buses, etc. Gather all your important documents in one place such as passport, visa, travel itinerary, accommodation address, student ID card, credit card, etc. Take advantage of student discounts.
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What should I bring for my kitchen?A basic set of dishes, utensils and cookware will get you started. You can always buy additional items such as a toaster, kettle, coffee maker (Nespresso machine or equivalent) or microwave if you need them. Don’t buy too much and be smart – you can use a fork instead of an egg whisk, for example! Download our indispensable Kitchen checklist from Member Resources for a complete list of the essentials. More tips on what to pack and NOT to pack in our book.
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Do I need a laptop for university?Absolutely - you will definitely need a laptop for university. This is by far the quickest way to write your notes, look up assignments and presentations in real-time, and with software and websites designed to help students studying at university, it is the ultimate resource to help you stay organised and complete your assignments.
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Do I need to buy text books and materials in advance?The majority courses and study programs will have a required or recommended list of course materials, such as books, materials and equipment. You can probably wait to see if certain books are compulsory or a nice-to-have, and either borrow them from the library, or save money by reaching out via social media to see if previous students or the Student Association with your university are selling their books.
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Do I need to bring a first aid kit?Yes, it's a good idea to bring a first aid kit to university. You never know when you might need it. You can download our free first aid kit checklist from our Free Resources tab, which includes links to buy the products directly from Amazon. You will also receive this free checklist when signing up to our mailing list.
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What bedding should I pack for university student room?Download our complete packing lists per room in Member Resources (believe me - we've done it many times, so you just follow our checklist!) Otherwise, you will want to pack or order to be delivered: Duvet (10 tog) Duvet cover (x2 - 1 in the wash, 1 on the bed) Mattress cover (x2). Check size of bed first! Mattress protector (essential!) Pillows Pillowcases. You will probably be issued with a duvet and one or two pillows in your room. You may wish to use these in addition to your own bedding, or as extra warmth if it gets cold! Remember to keep them stored safely if you don't use them as you will need to leave them there when you move out at the end of the year.
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Can I bring a small fridge?Yes, most universities allow students to take or buy small fridges for their rooms. Just check your accommodation contract for any size restrictions and the wattage. Consider buying secondhand from a previous student or local adverts and be sustainable!
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How much cash should I bring to university?We recommend bringing enough cash to see you through the first couple of weeks at university - the time it will take you to open a student bank account and receive your bank debit and/or credit cards. Around 100-200 euros/pounds should see you through. If you are moving to a university abroad, remember that unless you have an international credit card with a fixed exchange rate, you will be charged additional fees and exchange rates for every transaction you make, so think before you use your 'foreign' card.
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Can I decorate my room?Yes, you can definitely decorate your room, but be careful not to use tape on the walls as it may damage the paint or wallpaper, the same goes for needles or blutack - you will usually be provided with a bulletin board to avoid this problem. You may be banned from hanging fairy lights or lighting candles as they can be a fire hazard. Check the rules beforehand. Make your room cosy, but don’t go overboard – it’s only temporary accommodation! Our bedroom packing list in Member Resources will give you the ideal items to pack or buy for your room.
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What can I do over the summer to prepare for Uni?Get a job! Any additional funds you can gather over and above your student loan, parents' contribution, grants, bursaries or savings will help go towards your living allowance. Download our checklists from Member Resources and start organising what you need to take to university. Take advantage of summer sales to buy bedding, stationery, laptop, toiletries, etc. Sort all your university-related paperwork into a file, both on your laptop (backup to Google or iCloud!) and paper copies. Apply for your student accommodation well before the deadline. Apply for your Freshers Week ticket when available. Start booking travel arrangements (flights, etc.) Learn how to live independently - cook a few meals, laundry, shopping, paying bills. Create your monthly budget and learn how to track expenses (take our free Budgeting Basics course!) Then enjoy some downtime, activities and family, before you start university.
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What organisation tips should I know about before starting university?- Stay on top of the reading marked ESSENTIAL. The 'recommended' reading is good to read to give you more depth on a topic but the 'essential' reading is a must. - Stay on top of your coursework. This is an essential part of your overall grade, in addition to the exams to pass each module. - Create or download time planners to get used to organising your time and studies efficiently. Dedicate time to going over your notes to stay on top when it comes to revision for exams. - If you don't understand a topic, read up on it or ask your lecturers/advisor for additional help. Don't get behind and panic before exams. - Look up info about your university before you leave. Research what clubs you might like to join, view the campus map, find the nearest transport stops. - Practice managing a budget. Managing your finances is one of the hardest things you will have to learn. You can't keep asking parents for handouts, so manage your money carefully across each month. - Use Grammarly or similar to ensure quality assurance of your assignments before you submit them. - Learn how to reference correctly - you will need to know this from the start.
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How do I make friends at university?The quickest way to make friends at university is by signing up to join clubs and organisations, and attending campus events, particularly during Freshers’ Week. You may also make friends with other students attending the same classes as you, study groups, as well as your flat-mates or neighbours living in halls of residence. An alternative way if you prefer to meet people outside of the uni environment is by volunteering (charity shops, NGOs, or other societies) or offering your services like dogwalking, shopping for the elderly, etc. Read our blog for more tips on making friends at university.
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What are some challenges related to living on university campus?We address some of the following potential challenges you may experience as a university student in our book and our free resources and blogs - check them out for advice on how to deal with them. Homesickness (you may miss family, but call often and embrace your new independence) Transitioning to university life - the noise and crowds Roommates (noise and respect levels) Effective studying (being disciplined and finding your groove) Time management (again, discipline - use the planners in our Resources section) Budgeting (a big challenge for most - read our blog for help) Relationships (focus on what is important) Partying (enjoy yourself, but be reasonable)
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What do university students struggle with the most?Common Issues that uni students most struggle with include the following: Anxiety, test anxiety, or panic attacks. Seek help from a professional to guide you on the triggers and remedies should you feel anxious. Family expectations or problems. You can't worry about what you can't control - focus on doing your best at university, seek help if you need it, and try not to let any family issues affect your wellbeing at university. Depression, lethargy, feeling overwhelmed, low self-esteem, homesickness, loneliness. Don't suffer alone. Speak up to your friends, student counsellor, program director or wellbeing office. The university has a duty of care to its students and is there to help you. Relationship difficulties (emotional and physical aspects of intimate relationships). Relationships can be challenging at all stages of life and require effort - but don't let it take over. Keep your own interests and activities as well as your own friends and strike a healthy balance. Budgeting - managing your finance and student living allowance is probably going to be your biggest challenge at university. Create a budget and learn to stick to it - this may take a few months, but you'll learn pretty quickly or risk going hungry if you don't! Check out our blogs and templates for help with creating a student budget.
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How can I stay safe while living in the university town or city?To stay safe while living in the university town or city, be aware of your surroundings, lock doors and windows, and avoid walking alone at night. Know the location of emergency resources and have the phone numbers of Campus Security and your friends on speed dial. Always let 1-2 friends know your plans and whereabouts or install the Find my phone or Life360 app which your friends will be able to access for an additional safety measure.
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What are some tips for managing stress and maintaining a healthy lifestyle at university?To manage stress and maintain a healthy lifestyle, prioritise self-care, exercise regularly, eat well, get enough sleep, and make use of campus resources such as counselling services. Consider taking supplements to ensure you have a balanced nutritional intake should your diet fulfil all the normal requirements. It can be an overwhelming time, particularly if you’ve left home for the first time, and your mental health is important. Read our blog on Feeling stressed about University or college for more guidance.
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I'm really struggling. Can I drop out of uni any time?You can drop out if you really feel you want to. However, can you identify what is the issue? You may just need some guidance to help get you back on track. Try to identify if it is financial worries - then explore if you can get financial aid or ask for help with your budget management (hint, we can help with a budget calculator - ask us if you can't manage our membership fee). Is the subject matter not your thing? As your course director or tutor if it is possible to switch courses. You may need to apply again next year if too late into the term. Are you struggling with mental health issues and need support? Contact your student support services, tutor, or medical services to get help. You may be able to request an interruption of studies so you could return to complete your studies after an agreed break when you feel ready and able to handle it. Talk to your university support services to discuss why you are thinking of dropping out and what can be done to support you.
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What should I do on my first day at university?On your first day, try to arrive early (if you haven’t been allocated a timeslot for arrival), and drop your bags immediately in your room, choose your kitchen shelves/cupboard, make your bed, and go food shopping (don’t buy too much!) to make sure you are immediately settled for the next few days. Then walk around to familiarise yourself with the campus, meet your flatmates, and attend any introductory classes or orientation sessions. Read our blog on How to manage your first day moving into University accommodation.
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How should I unpack my personal belongings in my university room?After picking up your key or building security badge/card, start by organising your room, making your bed and hanging up your clothes. Then unpack your belongings and personal items, such as pictures and posters, to make the room feel like home. You will need to pack several hangers as these won’t be provided and pack or buy collapsible organisers to store underwear, socks, tops, etc as you will likely have open shelves in your university accommodation. Set up your study area using our checklist available in Member Resources.
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What student services and resources are available on campus?Campus services and resources may include academic advising, counselling services, career services, health and wellness resources, recreational facilities, and technology support. Check your university website for details, or contact the Student Union for advice. Student Counsellors are usually assigned to a group of students to be their ‘guardian angel’ for guidance during the first few months.
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What should I know about university culture and the local area?To get to know the university culture and local area, attend Freshers’ Week events, join clubs and talk to other students. Research the local area, including popular attractions and events, and get to know the people and places around campus by just exploring and getting yourself out there.
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How do I explore the campus?You can explore the campus by printing off the campus map from the university website, and just walk around, or take a guided tour usually organized for Freshers, attend events and activities, join clubs and organisations and meet up with other students.
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How can I find out who my flatmates will be?Once you receive your accommodation offer, you will be able to access Freshers pages and social media to start finding and connecting people in your accommodation. If you haven't yet found it on the university pages, try creating or searching for Facebook, WhatsApp or Snap chats / pages for your building / block / flat number. It's a good idea to discuss what people are planning to take, so you don't all turn up with a toaster each. But start cautiously, you don't need to take the kitchen sink with you, and can buy or identify the extra things you need once unpacked and on site.
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How do I create a student budget in Excel?To create a student budget in Excel, you need to list all your expected sources of income (such as student loans, grants, and part-time job earnings) and expenses (such as tuition fees, rent, Wifi, bills, food, and transportation). Subtracting your expenses from your income will indicate if you have enough funds to cover your expenses, or if you will need a student loan, overdraft, or get a job! Subscribe to our Member Resources to get a student budget calculator, and read our blog on How to create a Student Budget for University.
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How can I stay organised and manage my time effectively at university?To stay organised and manage your time, use a planner, prioritise tasks, make to-do lists, eliminate distractions and find a study routine that works for you. Check our blog on Effective studying tips for students.
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What are some tips for students on meal preparation and food shopping?Meal preparation and planning a list before food shopping can save you time and money, and is one of the best ways to make your budget stretch further. We have created an innovative student meal planner and shopping list in Member Resources, and you can read more essential tips on food, finding recipes online, batch cooking, making and storing leftovers, and when and how to shop at local supermarkets.
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Do you have any time management tips to use during revision time?It is important to note your exam dates in advance, and work backwards so you know when to dedicate blocks of time for intense revision periods. However, you should begin revising the material covered in the exams as soon as possible and preferably throughout the course. Repetition is key - so you really memorise the material. Read the practice questions in textbooks, review quizzes or tests set by lecturers, and do an past exam papers you can find, in order to see how questions are asked. Go to revision sessions and workshops, and ask your lecturers or student counsellors for help.
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