The countdown has begun. Get ready for your new life as a university student...
So many jobs. So little time. If you’re struggling to keep track of everything that need doing, here’s our ultimate checklist for uni first-timers.
1. Find accommodation that’s right for you
If you haven’t booked your accommodation for the upcoming academic year, now’s the time. Rather than just looking at price, you may wish to consider location and amenities. A saving of £20 per month on rent will pale in significance if you’re having to get a train into campus every morning!
Our friends at Student Roost provide award-winning student accommodation in most of the major cities. Safe and secure, Student Roost halls are conveniently located close to universities and offer flexible tenancy agreements!
2. Buy essentials
Some no-brainers for you: clothes (including face masks), bedding, towels, toiletries, stationery and electrical items such as laptop, phone and chargers. If you’re going to be doing your own cooking, rather than living in fully catered halls, then you may also need cutlery, plates, pots, pans etc.
If you want to make a saving, Paperclip now offer our own ‘Student Starter Pack’ for with all your bedroom, kitchen and bathroom essentials. They’re currently discounted at just £299 and are delivered to your door at no extra cost.
What’s more, if you return your items at the end of uni, Paperclip will refund you £90!
3. Get a railcard
A 16-25 railcard gives you 1/3 off all rail travel. Costs £30. Saves an average of £199 a year. (We’ll leave you to do the maths!) Buy one from the official railcard site or enter our competition to win a free one here.
4. Find your important documents
Passport, driving licence or other form of ID? Check. University paperwork, including your acceptance letter? Check. Student finance documents? Check. Accommodation info? Check. Now put them all together in a nice, secure plastic folder and keep it somewhere safe.
5. Set up a student bank account
A student account is not compulsory. But most come with lots of extra features and discounts that it would be a shame to miss out on. You can open an account as soon as you receive your offer letter – no need to wait until the start of term.
6. Register with a doctor
If you’re going to be spending more weeks of the year at university than at home, then you need to register with a local GP as soon as possible. Especially important if you have an ongoing health condition such as diabetes or epilepsy. Find a GP near your university here.
7. Check if you need a TV licence
The rules governing who does (and who doesn’t) need a TV licence are more complicated than you might think. Even if you only ever watch YouTube on your phone, you may be breaking the law if you don’t get one. See if your family TV licence covers you.
Good luck!