New student FAQs

Ahead of joining us, you’ve probably got lots of questions – and that’s completely normal.  

To help, we’ve rounded up a few of our most frequently asked questions from new students.  

What should I bring to university?

Focus on the essentials first: bedding, clothes for all seasons, toiletries, your laptop if you have one, chargers, and your passport/driving licence - you'll need this if you get a part-time job! We'd also recommend bringing a few things that make your room feel like home. Photos, a favourite blanket, or even a small plant can make a huge difference once you've moved in.

I haven't received my Welcome email yet. Should I panic?

No. Please don't worry if you haven't received your Welcome email yet. We only send these out when we're ready for you to enrol online. If your friends have had their Welcome email but you haven't, it just means we're still doing work in the background so we're not quite ready for you to enrol yet. Please have some patience - we promise, it'll be on the way soon!

Where can I find my student login details?

You can either find your student login details in your Welcome email or in a standalone email we have sent/will be sending you with the subject line " Important – Your University of Chester login details." Your login details are made up of:

• Your student number
• Your password
• Your student email address

How do I make friends?

The short answer is: don't put too much pressure on yourself. Everyone is in exactly the same position. Everyone is looking to meet people. Go to Welcome Week events - even if you feel a bit nervous. They're designed to help people meet each other. Societies and sports clubs are one of the easiest ways to meet people with similar interests. And remember, you don't have to stick with the first one you join. Try a few until you find your people.

Do I really need to upload a photo for my ID card before I arrive?

Absolutely! Uploading your photo before you arrives means our teams can create your student ID card before you arrive - this will save you time on move-in day/in Welcome Week. It also gives you a bit of choice about what photo to upload! If you don't upload one in advance, it means we have to take one when you arrive which means you'll have to wait for your card to be produced - and you'll be stuck with the one we take on the day!

Is university teaching very different from school or college?

Yes - but in a good way. Your timetable will be made up of a range of sessions; usually lectures, seminars, workshops and independent study. The biggest difference is that you'll be expected to manage your own time and budget. You'll need to plan in study sessions to meet deadlines and manage your spending to ensure your student loan lasts. But don't panic - you'll still have lots of help and support available at every stage.

What happens if I get homesick?

It's completely normal to feel homesick, especially in the first few weeks. Lots of students experience it, whether they've moved ten miles away or to another country altogether. If you do feel homesick, keep in touch with family and friends, but also try to build a routine here. And try not to spend every weekend going home straight away. Give yourself time to settle in and build friendships on campus.

Is it OK if I don't enjoy Welcome Week?

Absolutely. There's often a lot of pressure around Welcome Week but it's just one week. Some people meet their best friends then, while others don't find their group until weeks or even months later. There's no deadline for making friends. You've got lots of time to make memories at university - so be kind to yourself in the first few weeks.

Does it matter if I don't know what career I want yet?

Of course not! Not having a career in mind when you start university is really common. University is the perfect place to explore different opportunities. Try volunteering, attend careers fairs, take on part-time work, or get involved with the Students' Union. Every experience helps you figure out what you enjoy - and what you don't.