The University of Brighton is a talented and inclusive community and we know you’re going to have a brilliant time here. There's a lot to think about before starting university – so make sure you read this guide to get your student life off to the best possible start.
The step up to university was quite big, but the university helped me through it and now I’m looking forward to getting my degree. And I feel much more confident in social and work situations. APPLIED CRIMINOLOGY AND PSYCHOLOGY BA(HONS) THIRD YEAR STUDENT
Everything is easier than it seems and you are not on your own. Everyone feels just as anxious about starting university but you are not thrown in at the deep end. You can be as independent as you like, but you always have help available. UNIVERSITY OF BRIGHTON, FIRST YEAR STUDENT.
BEFORE YOU GET HERE
02–11
Essential online tasks 05 Your course 06 Advice for new students 07 Accommodation 08–09 Money 10–11
YOUR FIRST WEEK
Welcome and induction events
ONCE YOU ARE HERE
Your student life Your career Brighton Students’ Union Support and advice
CAMPUS MAPS
Sussex area Brighton area Moulsecoomb campus Grand Parade campus Falmer campus Eastbourne campus
USEFUL CONTACTS COMPLETE CHECKLIST
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12–15
14–15
16–21 18 19 20 21
22–28 22 23 24 25 26 27–28
29 BACK COVER
THERE’S MORE ONLINE STUDENTCENTRAL
Log into https://studentcentral.brighton.ac.uk for advice written specially for students starting this September. From Thursday 24 August you can enrol online, then you’ll be able to check important dates and details about your course.
SOCIAL MEDIA
Keep in touch with what is going on at the university on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. universityofbrighton
UNIVERSITY WEBSITE
uniofbrighton
uniofbrighton
Family and friends who won’t have access to studentcentral can find out about university life at our new students section – www.brighton.ac.uk/newstudent. It’s useful for you to refer to as well.
WELCOME
In just a few weeks you will be starting your course with us. Going to university can involve all kinds of change and during your first few weeks you are likely to be very busy adjusting to your new situation. There are lots of things that you can do before you get here to prepare and make sure your time with us gets off to the best possible start. First, read this guide! It includes important information about what you need to do before you get here. This includes completing stage 1 online enrolment, finding out what to expect during your first week, and about life at university and the support and services we provide.
VICE-CHANCELLOR’S WELCOME I am delighted that you have chosen to join us at the University of Brighton. You will be part of an academic community that is creative, enterprising and inclusive and that values you, your experience and personal perspective. At Brighton we will encourage you to play an active role in the life of your university, you will be supported throughout your course, and into your career and life after university. We take pride in creating an education experience in partnership with you and with professional associations and accrediting bodies – a sign that your degree will be relevant and high quality. I join with all my colleagues in welcoming you to the University of Brighton, your university. We are committed to do all we can to help you get the best from your studies and your time spent at university. I look forward to meeting you.
Professor Debra Humphris Vice-Chancellor 01
The teaching, learning environment and educational outcomes we provide for our students consistently exceed rigorous national requirements for all UK higher education providers.
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We are very proud of our students. 68% achieve firsts and 2:1s, and 22% attain a 2:2 – not only are these excellent academic achievements but they look great to future employers.
Our graduates leave us with the confidence and skills to make a difference. 94.4% of our full-time, first degree graduates are working, studying or training within six months of completing their course. (DLHE 2016–2017)
Our Student Services and Information Services hold the Customer Service ExcellenceÂŽ standard. This governmentbacked standard means the services we provide for our students have been independently assessed to be efficient, effective, excellent, equitable and empowering.
The University of Brighton has a First Class honour from People & Planet, the student network which campaigns to protect the environment, placing us in the top two greenest UK universities in People & Planet's University League 2016.
We hold a Bronze award from the Equality Challenge Unit's (ECU) Athena SWAN Charter, in recognition of our commitment to gender equality, and we are a Race Equality Charter member and Stonewall Diversity Champion.
BEFORE YOU GET HERE IN THIS SECTION ESSENTIAL ONLINE TASKS
• Confirm your place • Online enrolment • Upload your photo
YOUR COURSE
• Welcome events • Your timetable • Confirm your start date
ADVICE FOR NEW STUDENTS
• • • •
Students with disabilities Students with children International students Health
ACCOMMODATION MONEY
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WHAT YOU SHOULD DO BEFORE YOU GET HERE CHECKLIST ESSENTIAL ONLINE TASKS
Activate your university user
account. If you haven’t already you need to activate your university user account. Log into studentcentral to read advice for students starting in September. Upload your university photo.
WHAT YOU CAN DO FROM 17 AUGUST
Confirm your place with us if you are getting your A-level results today or already have your results. Join us on social media.
WHAT YOU CAN DO FROM 24 AUGUST
Complete stage 1 online enrolment.
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FINANCE
Make or update your student finance
application (UK and EU students only).
Work out a budget. Open a bank account. ACCOMMODATION
Arrange your accommodation (see our
accommodation checklist on page 09).
SOME OF YOU WILL ALSO NEED TO...
Book a place on international
orientation (international and European students). Arrange childcare and funding. Apply for Disabled Student Allowance (DSA). Check your vaccinations are up to date.
PREPARE FOR YOUR COURSE
Log into studentcentral so you can: check your start date. check the academic school and campus where your course is based. complete all required pre-course preparation if requested. check what’s going on in your first week, including welcome programme events via the timetable button on the home tab of studentcentral.
GET READY FOR STUDENT LIFE
Check out Freshtival 2017 and
sign up for the Brighton Students’ Union Freshers’ mailing list at www.brightonsu.com.
ESSENTIAL ONLINE TASKS LOGGING ONTO STUDENTCENTRAL Studentcentral is the university’s online learning environment. You will use studentcentral to complete Stage 1 online enrolment and find out about getting ready for life as a University of Brighton student. Throughout your time at Brighton you will use studentcentral to manage your studies and access academic and support services. You should log in regularly to check for any updates.
ACTIVATE YOUR UNIVERSITY USER ACCOUNT You might have activated this already when you applied for a place here to get into the applicant area on studentcentral. Your username is usually your initials and two or three numbers eg js123. Keep your password safe and don’t share it with anyone. If you have forgotten or would like to change your password visit https://myinfo.brighton.ac.uk/forgot.
Activate your university user account If you have already used studentcentral you have completed this step. If you haven’t, follow these simple instructions. • Visit https://activate.brighton.ac.uk and follow the instructions. • You will be asked for your University of Brighton student number, which you will find in your welcome email and on your offer letter and offer email. • Make sure you remember your new username and password when they are displayed because you will not get an email reminder. WAIT 15 MINUTES for your account to be activated.
CONFIRM YOUR PLACE AT THE UNIVERSITY OF BRIGHTON If your offer here is unconditional your place is already confirmed with us.
If you’re getting A-level results on Thursday 17 August, we’ll send you an email to confirm your place early that day. You can also visit www.brighton.ac.uk/ confirmation from Thursday 17 August and enter your UCAS Personal ID (PID) number. You do not need to call us to confirm your place.
COMPLETE STAGE 1 ONLINE ENROLMENT From Thursday 24 August if your place has been confirmed, you’ll be able to complete stage 1 online enrolment on studentcentral. You’ll receive a letter that explains what you need to do and we’ll send you email reminders. Stage 1 online enrolment takes about 15 minutes and you need to complete this process before you arrive at university. The morning after you have completed stage 1 online enrolment you will be able to see details about your course on studentcentral, events during your first week, your school’s induction events and much more. We will also confirm that the details we hold about you are correct. You may need to provide us with missing information such as who to contact in an emergency. To complete online enrolment you need to have activated your university account and be logged on to studentcentral. https://studentcentral.brighton.ac.uk
UPLOAD YOUR UNIVERSITY PHOTOGRAPH Your university photograph will be used for your Unicard. It is essential that you upload your photograph before you arrive at the university as you will need your Unicard to get into your halls of residence, access buildings and computers, and borrow books and other resources from the library. You can load money on to your Unicard to pay for food and drink from our cafes and restaurants, photocopying and items from our Students’ Union shops. It gives you discounts too so you can start saving money as soon as you get here.
DIGITAL TOOLKIT The digital toolkit will help you access important online services. https://about.brighton.ac.uk/dt • University wifi • Your university email • Microsoft cloud services including your free copy of Office Pro Plus Word, Excel and Powerpoint • Social media groups • Travel and transport • Budget calculator Many of these services will be available to you after you have enrolled online from Thursday 24 August. Start using your university email address before you get here and throughout your time as a student making sure you check your inbox regularly; otherwise you may miss important information and updates. If you are applying for placements or part-time employment your university email address is the one you should use.
TIP: Why not buy your NUS extra card at the same time (www.cards.nusextra. co.uk) – you can use the same photo for both and you can start saving money with the NUS extra discounts on travel and loads of other stuff too. Log into studentcentral to upload your photo https://studentcentral.brighton. ac.uk.
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YOUR COURSE YOUR WELCOME EVENTS AND TIMETABLE Find out about your welcome events Before you get here, check your welcome events happening in the first few weeks. You’ll need to attend in-person enrolment, and the Vice-Chancellor’s talk, as well as attending events specific to your course such as school welcome, introduction to your course, meeting your tutor and introductory teaching sessions. Your welcome timetable can be found on studentcentral after you have enrolled online – click on the timetable icon on the home tab.
When can you expect to see your timetable? Your draft timetable will be available on studentcentral after you have completed stage 1 online enrolment. Click on the timetable icon on the home tab. Timetables are provisional until after the start of term so we advise that you do not buy your season ticket or make work commitments if possible. Brighton and Sussex Medical School students will find their welcome timetable in the BSMS new student area of studentcentral and the academic timetable will be in the module area.
CONFIRM THE START DATE OF YOUR COURSE ON STUDENTCENTRAL The first day for most courses is Monday 25 September, but some of our courses have different start dates. To confirm when the first day of your course is and other course-specific instructions, log into studentcentral and go to the Studies tab and click on My Course area where you’ll find key dates for your course. The following courses have earlier start dates, but note this is not a complete list and you should check studentcentral to be sure of your course start date. • Brighton and Sussex Medical School Brighton and Sussex Medical School students’ induction week starts on Monday 18 September. MedSoc will be arranging welcome activities on 16–17 September. • PGCE (postgraduate teacher training) Starts on Monday 4 September. • Postgraduate health courses Most have earlier start dates – check studentcentral.
CHECK TERM AND SEMESTER DATES
PRE-COURSE PREPARATION
Term dates 2017–2018
For some courses there may be some pre-course preparation, or information you must read before you start your course, such as reading lists. You can find out more about any requirements specific to your course by logging into studentcentral and visiting the My Course section of the Studies tab.
Autumn Monday 25 September– Friday 15 December
Spring
The University of Brighton is based on campuses in Brighton, Eastbourne and Hastings. You will find the school and campus where your course is based on the letter accompanying this guide and on the new student area of studentcentral. Your course is based with one of the 13 academic schools. • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Brighton and Sussex Medical School Brighton Business School School of Applied Social Science School of Architecture and Design School of Art School of Computing, Engineering and Mathematics School of Education School of Environment and Technology School of Health Sciences School of Humanities School of Media School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences School of Sport and Service Management.
Students studying with: • School of Media • School of Humanities • School of Health Sciences should double check where their course is taught as courses run by these schools are based at more than one campus. Courses validated by the university are also taught at our partner colleges across East and West Sussex.
Monday 8 January–Friday 23 March
JOIN US ON SOCIAL MEDIA
Summer
Meet other students in your campus Facebook group and follow us on social media.
Monday 16 April–Friday 8 June
Semester dates Semester 1 Monday 2 October–Friday 2 February
Semester 2 Monday 5 February–Friday 8 June
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CONFIRM YOUR ACADEMIC SCHOOL AND CAMPUS
www.brighton.ac.uk/socialmedia
ADVICE FOR NEW STUDENTS STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES
INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
We recommend you do the following as soon as possible so we can put in place any support you may need. Declare a disability to the university. Apply for Disabled Students’ Allowance.
Get ready for life in the UK
Most UK students with disabilities can apply for Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) which is designed to help meet any extra costs that may arise from your disability. Students who are not eligible for DSA will still be eligible for funded disability support.
We offer a free orientation programme for international and EU students, which takes place on 19–22 September. It’s based in Brighton, with daytime events in Eastbourne for students who will be studying there. It also includes a meet and greet service for students arriving at London’s Heathrow and Gatwick airports on Tuesday 19 September, and accommodation for the duration of the programme.
Book an appointment with the Disability and Dyslexia Team. Bring up-to-date evidence of your disability either from a medical practitioner or an educational psychologist. We can help you to obtain this evidence if you do not already have it.
To find out more about life, culture and customs in the UK and preparing for study at the University of Brighton visit www.brighton.ac.uk/international/ prepare.
Your Learning Support Coordinator can also answer any questions that you may have.
Orientation is designed to help our international and European students adapt to life in the UK and the University of Brighton as easily as possible. You will be able to see where you will be studying, find out about life in the UK, meet university staff, look for accommodation if necessary, and make new friends.
Find out more – visit www.brighton.ac.uk/disability.
Find out more www.brighton.ac.uk/orientation
STUDENTS WITH CHILDREN
Find out all about international support at www.brighton.ac.uk/international/ support
Apply for childcare There are two nurseries at the University of Brighton, based on the Moulsecoomb and Grand Parade campuses, providing high quality childcare to children of students, staff and the local community. Both have been recognised as ‘outstanding’ by Ofsted. Contact the manager of the nursery as soon as possible to check availability. There is also a nursery based at the University of Sussex which may be more convenient if you are studying at our Falmer campus. www.brighton.ac.uk/childcare Remember to complete your application for childcare grant or allowance. For more information visit: www.gov.uk/childcaregrant or for NHS-funded students visit: www.gov.uk/nhs-bursaries.
STAY HEALTHY, GET VACCINATED Before you arrive read our health advice about mumps, measles and meningitis. Make sure your vaccinations are up to date, including the Meningococcal ACWY (MenACWY) vaccination for 18–25 year olds. Students on some health courses require additional vaccinations – you will be contacted if this applies to you.
I’m Jodie and I’m an international student adviser.
Our Student Advice Service provides high quality, free and confidential immigration advice to our applicants, students and their dependents. Before you can begin your University of Brighton journey you need to complete a number of requirements, and that’s where I can help. It’s my job to help you apply for a visa to study in the UK and to provide you with advice and guidance throughout the immigration process. We understand that your family may have lots of questions too; whether they’ve got questions about finance, visas or life in the UK, we’re here to help them understand what to expect. We have many years of experience of providing immigration advice and have taken all of the necessary training in immigration law. We work to strict guidelines and procedures and are regulated by the Immigration Services Commissioner (OISC) so you can be confident about the quality of the information and advice we provide to you. www.brighton.ac.uk/immigration
Students from the EU need to bring a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) from their home country to get free NHS treatment.
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ACCOMMODATION Our accommodation team have excellent local knowledge and many years of experience. They’re here to advise you on all the options open to you, and support you in finding somewhere suitable to live throughout your time here.
HALLS OF RESIDENCE Have I got into halls? • If you have applied for halls we will contact you from late July onwards to let you know whether you have been allocated a room. • If you already hold an unconditional offer in July you will hear from us soon after the application deadline. • If you are waiting for exam results we will be in touch once your exam results are available and your offer becomes unconditional. We aim to let everyone who applies to halls know by the end of August. Go to www.brighton.ac.uk/ accommodation-policy to read our halls allocation policy. In 2016 100% of eligible students were offered university-managed or universityarranged accommodation.
Accepting your offer of a room You need to accept the offer of a room within seven days of us contacting you and pay your first instalment of rent at this point. Log in to the accommodation portal to do this using your student number and accommodation account password. https://accommodation.brighton.ac.uk. Once you have accepted your offer of a room you should complete your accommodation induction and book your arrival time.
I joined a Facebook group for the halls I would be staying in. Through this I found three people that I am living with and this meant when we did meet the day I moved in, it was a lot less awkward and it was like we were already friends. I haven’t got into halls We can’t guarantee everyone who applies a place in halls but we can offer you lots of support in finding an alternative – including reserved rooms, house hunting service and Homestay.
Reserved room scheme This option is available to students who apply for but are not offered a room in halls. The university works with local letting agents to secure private rented houses in Brighton and the surrounding area exclusively for University of Brighton students. All the properties offered through the scheme have been checked by our accommodation team to ensure that required standards have been met.
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You’ll be renting a room in a shared house with other University of Brighton students so it’s a great opportunity to meet new people and make new friends. If you are offered a reserved room you will need to make an upfront payment to the letting agent to secure the room. This would usually be one month’s rent, a deposit and agent’s fee. Rooms in the reserved room scheme are subject to availability.
PRIVATE ACCOMMODATION If you opt for private rented accommodation you get more choice over where you live – and who with. We offer plenty of support and advice if you go for this option. • Contact us about house hunting and get advice from our experienced team. • Our closed Facebook groups are another way to meet like-minded house mates and buddy up for house hunting – this is another way to get advice from the accommodation team. • Log in to our Student Homes database and search through all the accommodation options registered with us. https://studenthomes.brighton. ac.uk
House-hunting service In the summer we offer a house-hunting service to help you find a home and housemates before you start university. Watch out for more details on our website. You can also join our Facebook groups so you can meet other students who are looking to share and ask the accommodation team any questions you might have. www.brighton.ac.uk/househunting Prepare beforehand by visiting our househunting web pages. www.brighton.ac.uk/newstudents/ accommodation#renting
USE OUR DATABASE Before contacting letting agents use our studenthomes database to find private rented accommodation. Studenthomes provides housing advice for University of Brighton students, as well as details of houses and flats available for rent in Brighton and Eastbourne. You could save up to £200 in agency fees by using it. You need your university username and password to log on. Every year hundreds of students find great places to live using this service. https://studenthomes.brighton.ac.uk/ For more information visit www.brighton. ac.uk/accommodation or email accommodation@brighton.ac.uk.
HOUSE-HUNTING GUIDE Our house-hunting guide provides advice about finding and renting property in the private sector, and is full of useful information to guide you through the process of choosing the right home. Make sure you read it before you start your accommodation search. Download the house-hunting guide at www.brighton.ac.uk/accommodation.
ACCOMMODATION CHECKLIST HALLS OF RESIDENCE AND UNIHOMES
Read our halls allocation policy – this
explains who is eligible to apply and how to accept our offer of a room. If you are eligible and want to apply for halls you need to have done so by Saturday 15 July 2017. We’ll let you know the outcome of your accommodation application after the deadline has passed and after your place with us is unconditional – so if you’re waiting for results, we’ll let you know the outcome after your results are available and your place is fully confirmed. If we offer you a place in halls you need to pay the first rent instalment within seven days of us contacting you to secure your place. Join your halls Facebook group – we’ll email you details. Complete the online accommodation induction, where you’ll be given an arrival time.
PRIVATE ACCOMMODATION
Read our advice on looking for
accommodation in the private rented sector. Join the house-hunting Facebook group for your location. Check out https://studenthomes. brighton.ac.uk Contact us about our house hunting service.
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MONEY Students starting relevant healthcare degrees can apply for a maintenance loan through Student Finance England. There may be additional grants available if you are a parent; travel and accommodation expenses during placements may be reimbursed. If you are starting the Paramedic Practice BSc(Hons), your tuition fees will be covered by Health Education Kent Surrey Sussex (HEKSS). You should complete the HEKSS funding application, which our School of Health Sciences will send to you. England domiciled students are also eligible to apply for a reduced rate maintenance loan from Student Finance England.
STUDENT FINANCE Open a bank account Your student loan or other funding will be paid into your bank account, so it makes sense to have an account organised before you arrive. PP Look for student accounts with benefits that suit you. PP Remember to take ID and confirmation of student status – your acceptance letter.
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Student finance If you are a UK or EU student studying an undergraduate course or PGCE, and you have not already done so, you should apply for student finance now. Take the time to read our funding and fees information and the advice we provide about managing your money in this guide and online. www.brighton.ac.uk/money
Changed university?
If you have applied for student finance, make sure that the company you applied to has your correct bank details.
If your choice of university has changed since your original UCAS application you must let your student finance company know as soon as possible.
There are banking facilities on our Moulsecoomb campus and within walking distance of all our other campuses.
For more information about student finance and loans visit www.gov.uk/ student-finance.
If you are an EU or international student please be aware that it may take several weeks to open a UK bank account after you have enrolled on your course. You need to make sure you have money for this period by making arrangements similar to those you make if you are going on holiday abroad, like using travellers cheques or a credit or cash card.
Funding for health courses There have been changes to funding arrangements for some health courses. If you are from England, and starting a nursing, midwifery, physiotherapy or podiatry undergraduate course, you will need to apply for a tuition fee loan and a maintenance loan through Student Finance England. Additional allowances will be available for students with child dependents.
If you are starting our Occupational Therapy BSc(Hons) you will need to apply to Student Finance England for a tuition fee loan and to NHS Business Services Authority for an NHS Bursary to cover the costs of living expenses. If you are starting an NHS health course and you are from Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland, you should apply to your relevant funding body for financial support.
International students If you’re a self-funded international student you’ll need to pay a tuition fee deposit of £2,500 by Thursday 31 August. If you require a Tier 4 student visa to study here your deposit must be paid before we can issue you with a CAS number.
POSTGRADUATE MASTERS LOAN SCHEME If you’re a UK or EU student studying for a masters degree, you may be able to apply for a government loan of up to £10,280. Your loan can be used as a contribution towards the costs of study including tuition fees and maintenance costs. www.brighton.ac.uk/money
Bursaries If you are an English or EU undergraduate student, we will advise if you are eligible for a bursary once you have completed stage 1 online enrolment after Thursday 24 August. You need to have given Student Finance England consent for them to share your household income information with us.
You do not need to apply for a bursary, your details are passed on to the university automatically by Student Finance England once you receive confirmation of your tuition fee and maintenance loan. Bursaries are paid in two equal instalments in January and May 2018. Care leavers will receive their University of Brighton bursary soon after the start of the autumn term.
Receiving your student funding Once you have completed stage 2 inperson enrolment during your first week, if you have applied for student finance the university will confirm your registration and attendance with your student finance company. Your maintenance loan will be released to your bank account, usually within three to four working days and your tuition fee loan will be paid straight to the university.
BE PREPARED Make sure you have enough money in your bank account when you arrive to cover your rent, food, study, travel and entertainment costs for at least the first two weeks of term in case there are any delays in receiving your student finance.
Make a budget Paying for your studies and your living costs may seem daunting at first, but organising your student finance early and making a budget you can stick to will make a big difference.
BUDGET CHECKLIST
Do the numbers add up?
Budget while you are here – calculate your income and expenses and work out what your weekly or monthly income and outgoings are. Budgeting isn’t just about seeing how much money you will need to pay for your food, travel and rent – it’s a really good way of working out how much you can spend on things you enjoy.
Income = same as or more than your outgoings – looks like you’ve got things covered, stick to the budget and you’ll be fine.
For more advice on ways to manage your money visit www.brighton.ac.uk/ moneymatters.
Income = less than your outgoings – your money may not last until the end of term. Are there ways to cut back on your spending or increase your income (for example, a part-time job)?
+ INCOME STUDENT LOAN
Your student loan covers the cost of your tuition and your maintenance loan (UK students only) will cover some of your living costs while you are studying.
GRANTS, BURSARIES, SPONSORSHIPS OR SCHOLARSHIPS YOU’RE ELIGIBLE FOR
MONEY FROM RELATIVES OR GUARDIANS INCOME FROM A JOB BENEFITS / TAX CREDITS
– OUTGOINGS ACCOMMODATION
You can find price details of university accommodation at www.brighton.ac.uk/living-here.
HOUSEHOLD BILLS
HOUSEHOLD SUPPLIES AND TOILETRIES MUSIC, FILM AND SOCIAL ACTIVITIES
Student Advice Service If you are concerned about your financial situation either before you arrive or once you are here, contact the Student Advice Service. Our service is confidential and non-judgemental.
Internet, TV licence, water, gas, electricity, phone contract and council tax (not applicable if the housing is solely occupied by students).
CLOTHES AND SHOES
Email studentadvice@brighton.ac.uk or call 01273 642888.
Factor this cost in if you live in private accommodation.
CONTENTS INSURANCE
BOOKS AND EQUIPMENT
TRAVEL COSTS
Dental treatment, glasses and contact lenses.
We offer one-to-one advice sessions on all of our campuses. There are hardship funds to help students in certain circumstances and we can help you access these if you are eligible. www.brighton.ac.uk/budgeting
Transport to and from uni as well as visits home. Find out about buses and Unizone train tickets for cheap travel on Southern Rail for students.
CREDIT CARD OR DEBT REPAYMENTS
HEALTHCARE
CHILDCARE
FOOD, LAUNDRY
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YOUR FIRST WEEK
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IN THIS SECTION WELCOME AND INDUCTION EVENTS
• • • •
In-person enrolment Wifi Welcome events Travel
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WELCOME AND INDUCTION EVENTS
HOW TO ACCESS THE UNIVERSITY WIFI Select eduroam from the list of networks on your device. Enter your eduroam user name, @ and the university domain: • your user name is the one you use to access studentcentral • the domain is brighton.ac.uk. • For example abc1@brighton.ac.uk. Click continue/connect/trust/accept if asked. Visit https://about.brighton.ac.uk/dt for a quick guide on how to access our online services.
Monday 25 September is the first official day of the university’s autumn term. Some courses start earlier than the first official day of term: check studentcentral to see when your course starts. Log onto studentcentral and click on the timetable icon on the home tab to see the welcome events in your first week.
ATTEND WELCOME EVENTS IN YOUR ACADEMIC SCHOOL You will need to attend induction and teaching events for your course during your first week. These events may start before you attend your in-person enrolment session. You can find out the dates, times and locations of these events by logging into studentcentral and going to your timetable on the home tab which will be available once you have completed online enrolment after Thursday 24 August.
ATTEND STAGE 2 IN-PERSON ENROLMENT In order to become a fully enrolled student at the university and receive your Unicard, you need to complete stage 2 of the enrolment process, in-person enrolment. 14
Attendance at in-person enrolment is essential and you need to bring photo ID. This needs to be your passport or UK driving licence.
You may have other induction or course events before your enrolment so make sure you check on studentcentral when and where you have to be.
You may also be asked to bring in original copies of your certificates and transcripts but we will let you know in advance if you are required to do so.
Monday 25 September
If you do not attend the in-person enrolment session you will experience delays in receiving your funding. If you are unable to attend your in-person enrolment session contact the enrolment helpline as soon as possible.
• Falmer • Moulsecoomb
Email studentadministration@brighton. ac.uk or call 01273 644777.
Stage 2 in-person enrolment for courses that start earlier
Stage 2 in-person enrolment dates and venues
Check the start date of your course on studentcentral and check your enrolment date too.
Find out where and when you will complete stage 2 in-person enrolment by logging into studentcentral and going to the timetable icon on the home tab. This will be available once you have completed online enrolment after Thursday 24 August.
• Eastbourne • Moulsecoomb
Tuesday 26 September
Wednesday 27 September • Grand Parade • Moulsecoomb
Brighton and Sussex Medical School in-person enrolment is Tuesday 19 September.
EU and international students based in Brighton and attending our orientation programme will be able to attend stage 2 in-person enrolment on Friday 22 September. Students based in Eastbourne will register on Monday 25 September.
MEET THE VICE-CHANCELLOR During your first week, the Vice-Chancellor or Deputy Vice-Chancellor will welcome you to the university and provide you with some essential information about the university community. You can find out the dates and times of these sessions on studentcentral – go to your timetable on the home tab (available the morning after you have completed online enrolment after Thursday 24 August).
TRAVEL AROUND CAMPUS Whatever your location there are transport options to reduce your costs and reduce your carbon emissions. All our campuses have excellent public transport links and you can make good savings on train fares by purchasing the UniZone rail ticket. Student discounts are also available on the buses, using a keycard or smart phone m-ticket. There are facilities for cyclists on all our campuses, such as bike racks, pumps and toolkits. Brighton has a great network of cycle lanes across the city and there are lockable cycle cages on most of our campuses.
There is also a Brighton Students’ Union Bike Hub that allows students to bring in their bikes for repair and teaches students’ to maintain their own bicycles affordably. Parking on campus is very limited, and we discourage students from bringing their cars to university. We also encourage alternatives to car travel wherever possible to reduce our carbon footprint. Students who can show that car travel is essential can apply for a parking permit when they arrive. Please note that parking is prohibited at some of our halls of residences. www.brighton.ac.uk/travel
MEET STUDENT SERVICES Student Services provide support to help make your university experience the best it can be. You can meet members of the Student Services team at your in-person enrolment session and at the freshers’ fairs organised by the Students’ Union.
GO TO STUDENTS’ UNION WELCOME EVENTS The Students’ Union Freshtival programme runs for a fortnight at the beginning of term in Brighton and Eastbourne. It includes the freshers’ fair where you can sign up to student clubs, societies and sports teams, as well as other events. You can purchase a Freshtival AAA wristband which gives you access to deals and entry to freshers’ events including Seafront Soundclash and Freshers’ Ball. You can find out more at www.brightonsu.com.
ATTEND LIBRARY INDUCTION AND IT SKILLS INDUCTION SESSIONS Library induction and IT skills sessions take place early in the autumn term. You can find out more at www.brighton.ac.uk/is.
YOUR FIRST WEEK CHECKLIST COMPLETE YOUR ENROLMENT AND GO TO COURSE EVENTS
Attend stage 2 in-person enrolment. Go to your course induction events. GET INVOLVED IN STUDENT LIFE
Go to the freshers’ fairs and
Students’ Union events – join in Freshtival 2017. Have fun, meet new people, join a club or society. Visit www.brightonsu.com/ welcome. Get your NUS Extra card for student discounts in shops, restaurants and online. Visit www.nus.org.uk/ nusextra.
LOOK AFTER YOURSELF
Register with a doctor (GP) near
where you live. This is compulsory for Brighton and Sussex Medical School students but recommended for all students. Find out about our student services and how to find them if you need them.
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ONCE YOU ARE HERE
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IN THIS SECTION YOUR STUDENT LIFE YOUR CAREER BRIGHTON STUDENTS’ UNION SUPPORT AND ADVICE
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YOUR STUDENT LIFE
Getting involved with things outside your course during your time here will definitely add to your skills and experience. But more than that, it’s about finding what it is you love to do and is a great way to make new friends.
SPORT AND FITNESS Sport Brighton is run in partnership by the university and the Students’ Union and can help you take part in whatever sporting activity you like, whether you want to compete, keep fit or just have fun. There are fitness, health and wellbeing classes and many clubs and societies to choose from. www.brighton.ac.uk/sportbrighton
SOCIETIES, CLUBS AND EVENTS Brighton Students’ Union brings together like-minded students through shared interests. It’s a great way to meet new people, take part in activities and gain new skills outside of your studies. You can find a club or society that’s right for you at our Brighton Students’ Union Freshers’ Fair or have a look online before you get here. www.brightonsu.com/societies
YOUR STUDENT VOICE We listen to feedback and ideas from our students to make sure we provide you with the best possible student experience. https://blogs.brighton.ac.uk/ yourvoicematters/ Brighton Students’ Union leadership team are elected by students to represent students, and they campaign on a range of issues to ensure the student voice is heard.
STUDENT CONTRACT The student contract highlights the university and Students’ Union relationship with our students through shared commitments and expectations. www.brighton.ac.uk/studentcontract
Joining a society is the best thing I’ve done at uni, I’ve met some of my best friends here. The union also do a great range of activities, events and campaigns, but they’re there if you need support and advice too. LEANNE BAYLEY, FIRST YEAR ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND ENGLISH LITERATURE
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BECOME A STUDENT AMBASSADOR We are always looking for new students to help us to promote the university through our Student Recruitment and Outreach Ambassador Programme. We have paid opportunities available to work at events such as open days and higher education fairs as well as with local schools, colleges and communities. We will be recruiting ambassadors to work at our autumn open days. Chat to us at the freshers’ fair or contact studentambassadors@brighton.ac.uk for more information.
A LIFELONG LINK Even when you graduate you’ll still be able to access our sports, library and careers services through our alumni association. You can also benefit from the Alumni Advice Network while you are still a student and we are happy to put you in touch with alumni to discuss career paths and opportunities or to just get some advice about being at university.
YOUR CAREER
BOOST YOUR CAREER POTENTIAL Part of your university experience is about preparing for your future career. It is never too early to start thinking about next steps and how you can make the most of your time here. www.brighton.ac.uk/careers
CAREER DEVELOPMENT SUPPORT You can book an appointment with one of our professionally qualified Career Development Advisers as soon as you start your course. Our advisers can help you decide what activities you should do to help you with your career development.
ENTREPRENEURSHIP Beepurple, our enterprise support programme, helps students and graduates get their business ideas off to the best possible start. Over 3,500 staff, students and alumni have signed up to the Beepurple entrepreneurship programme.
The degree introduced me to many skills for the digital media industry and inspired me to discover my passion for web design and development. The course regularly exposed me to industry professionals, placement opportunities and relevant conferences in the local web community – these were fantastic opportunities. CHARLOTTE JACKSON DIGITAL MEDIA BA(HONS)
VOLUNTEERING AND MENTORING Volunteering provides opportunities to gain experience, enhance your employability and meet new people. The Active Student Volunteering Service will work with you to find a rewarding, safe and supported role within the local community. www.brighton.ac.uk/volunteering
Beepurple offers free workshops to develop members’ enterprise skills as well as one-to-one business support for anyone looking to develop an entrepreneurial idea, start a company or social enterprise or for those who are already trading.
Our mentoring scheme, Momentum, offers you the chance to work with a mentor to improve your confidence and boost your chances of career success. Mentors are professionals from a variety of backgrounds, committed to helping you develop your skills.
www.beepurple.co.uk
www.brighton.ac.uk/careers
You can also volunteer with the Students’ Union in a range of fun opportunities. If you’re passionate about change and making a difference you can also nominate yourself to be a Course Rep, Volunteer Officer or part of the Campus Action Team. www.brightonsu.com/volunteering
FINDING A JOB DURING AND AFTER UNIVERSITY Whether you know what you want to do when you graduate or not, you can get expert advice from our Careers Service staff who can help you with your CV, job applications and interview techniques. They can help you to research careers and further study and training opportunities. While you are here, there are lots of ways we can help you to develop your skills. • Get a part-time job, volunteer or develop your own business ideas. • Join or start up a club or society. • Take advantage of placement opportunities. • Work for the university, maybe as a student ambassador. • Become a course rep. Find out more about how we can help you develop your career through our connector. http://about.brighton.ac.uk/connector 19
BRIGHTON STUDENTS’ UNION
So you’re on your way to the University of Brighton. Starting university can feel a bit daunting, but it’s such an exciting time and one you’ll remember for a very long time. Did you know you’re automatically a member of the Students’ Union as soon as you enrol here? Getting involved in your Students’ Union is one of the best ways to make the most of your time as a student. In fact, ensuring that you have the most fantastic, fulfilling experience at the University of Brighton is our mission as an organisation. As we’re led by students and work solely for our student members, you can guarantee that we’re on your side. The Students’ Union’s work falls into four main categories, here’s just a taster of all that’s available to you.
CHANGE THINGS Lead and participate in student-run campaigns, stand in our elections, become a course rep, represent your academic interests, attend NUS National Conference and make changes to policies around the university and union through our student forums. 20
FUN TIMES
STUDENT ACTIVITIES
Come along to Freshtival and welcome events, enjoy exclusive student discounts with NUS extra, relax in our cafe-bars on campus, go out to our weekly nightclub events and special nights like our garden party and balls.
Join a club or society, get involved in student media, volunteer in the community, get a job with the Students’ Union, and be nominated for a union award.
GOOD ADVICE
www.brightonsu.com
Obtain free academic advice and guidance from our Union Support service, talk to our team about any problems with academic misconduct, claims for mitigating circumstances and appeals. Benefit from our health and wellbeing services including CaSH (Contraception and Sexual Health) drop-ins and PEACH (Peer Education and Advice for Campus Health) that offer stress-relieving activities and advice sessions including pet therapy: you can come and have a cuddle with our friendly visiting labrador and pick up some stressrelieving tips.
Join a community of thousands of University of Brighton students by following us on social media.
You’re automatically a member of the Students’ Union as soon as you enrol at the university.
brightonstudentsunion SUBrighton subrighton
SUPPORT AND ADVICE Got any questions about uni life or need help with something?
ASK US Speak to our staff Your personal tutor, Student Support and Guidance Tutor (SSGT), course rep, or staff in your school. Look out for staff in blue lanyards or ASK ME badges to help answer your questions.
Ask a question online Click on the Help and Advice tab in studentcentral.
Visit your nearest Student centre You’ll find confidential and impartial advice at every campus.
Contact the Students’ Union They’re here to enhance your university experience. www.brighton.ac.uk/ask-us
STUDY SUPPORT There is a lot of support available to help you with your studies, from online tools to one-to-one tutoring, alongside specialist support for students with specific needs. You can explore our online academic study kit (ASK) and find out dates of study skills sessions at www.brighton.ac.uk/ask. Studentcentral can help you manage your workload and provides access to e-books, journals and other study materials tailored to your course.
ACADEMIC ENGLISH SKILLS If English is not your first language and you would like to develop your academic English skills, our international academic study kit (iASK) offers free help. www.brighton.ac.uk/iask
FINDING A PART-TIME JOB Many of our full-time students work parttime while they are studying. You might need to work for financial reasons, or you might want to work to gain experience and learn new skills. If you decide to get a part-time job while you are studying then register online with the Careers Service. www.brighton.ac.uk/careers The Students’ Union have part time jobs across all campuses that give you the opportunity to make extra money during term time whilst being comfortable that you have plenty of time to dedicate to your studies. Find out more at www.brightonsu.com/jobs.
COMMUNICATION FROM THE UNIVERSITY You are going to be busy at university and there is a lot to take in – it’s easy to miss important information. Look out for updates throughout the year, relating to your student finances, your studies, career and student life in general.
These messages will be sent to your university email address and via studentcentral. We will also let you know of opportunities to get involved with paid market research, enter competitions and to give your feedback about the university.
KEEPING SAFE Brighton and Eastbourne are safe places to live, but there are steps that you can take to look after yourself and your property, like taking out insurance, bringing a bike lock and labelling expensive equipment. We will be in touch by email with top tips throughout the year. The university has two dedicated police community liaison officers, PC Lee Cook and PC Gaynor Martin, along with our Community Liaison and House Advice Officer, Andrew Keefe, who are all available to help and advise our students throughout their time at the university.
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MAPS SUSSEX AREA: HOW TO GET HERE
A1(M) M11 M25 M25 M40
M25
M4
HEATHROW AIRPORT
M3 M2 M25
M26 M25 M20 M23
GATWICK AIRPORT A22
DOVER
FOLKSTONE
A23
Maps and directions For maps of all of our campuses, and travel and parking advice visit www.brighton.ac.uk/maps.
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(CHANNEL TUNNEL)
Contact details including those for school offices are provided at www.brighton.ac.uk/contactus.
Key University site/building
BRIGHTON AREA OUR BRIGHTON CAMPUSES
A23 London
Stanmer
A27
Falmer train station
VARLEY PARK
A27
Coldean Lane
FALMER CAMPUS PADDOCK FIELDS AND GREAT WILKINS London Road
MOULSECOOMB PLACE
Moulsecoomb train station
MOULSECOOMB CAMPUS A270 Lewes Road
PHOENIX BREWERY
Brighton train station
GRAND PARADE CAMPUS
A259
Brighton Pier Brighton Marina
Key University campus/building Halls of residence Train station
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MOULSECOOMB CAMPUS N W
E S
Moulsecoomb Place Halls
sR
oa
d
Moulsecoomb Train Station
Manor House and Tithe Barn Student Services and accommodation offices
Le
we
Huxley Building Heavy Engineering Block
Cockcroft Building
Sports Hall
w
Le
Watts Building
Le
we
sR
oa
d
Watts House
es
Ro
ad
Advanced Engineering Building
Mithras House
To confirm where and when you will complete stage 2 in-person enrolment log on to studentcentral and click on the timetable icon on the home tab.
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N
To confirm where and when you will complete stage 2 in-person enrolment log on to studentcentral and click on the timetable icon on the home tab.
W
A23 Ric hmond Pla ce
s Place A23 St George’
GRAND PARADE CAMPUS St Peter’s House Library
E S
A23 Gran d Pa rade
A23 Glou ceste r Place
Glouc ester Street
A23 Marl boro ugh
Place
Nort h Ro ad
Kings wood Street
Grand Parade Old Court Room Chu rch S tree t
Brighton Dome
Brighton Museum & Art Gallery
Royal Pavilion
A23 Pa vilion Pa rade
Edwar d Stre et
Pavilion Parade Edward Street
A23 Old Steine
Brighton seafront
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MOULSECOOMB FALMER CAMPUSCAMPUS
Vil lag eW ay
B2123 The D rove
A27
American Express Community Stadium
Students’ Union A27
Mayfield House
Falmer Train Station Checkland Building
Westlain Building Library
Falmer Sports Centre Paddock Field Halls of Residence Great Wilkins Halls of Residence Virgin Active Brighton
Sports Pavilion
A27
A270 Lewes Road
Brighton Aldridge Community Academy
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MOULSECOOMB EASTBOURNE CAMPUS CAMPUS
des R
oad
Welkin Halls of Residence
Mea
dick
Gau
Students’ Union
Road
Welkin Labs
Trevin Towers
Carlisle Road
d
oa
sR
de
ea
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d
Roa
Dento
dick
ad
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W
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Me ade sR
John Fulton Hall
oad
Hillbrow
en t
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Gau
Ro ad
Gaudick Gym
Roa
D
sle
rli
Ca
n Road
Link Road
M
d
Hillbrow Sports Hall
To confirm where and when you will complete stage 2 in-person enrolment log on to studentcentral and click on the timetable icon on the home tab.
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M ea ds
t ee Str ds ea M
d Roa ads Me
Ro ad
EASTBOURNE CAMPUS
d d Roa y Hea Beach Road ead hy H Beac
Greynore 1
N W
Robert Dodd
E
ad Derwent Ro
Greynore 2
Greynore 3
Meads St reet
Road Darley
Road Matlock
S
ADL
Darley Road
Aldro d Roa low Bas
t rescen mbe C Wellco
Ward Hall
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Road Darley
Meads St reet
Queenwood Library
USEFUL CONTACTS
These are the contact details that you are most likely to need before you arrive and during your first few weeks.
Brighton
Childcare
01273 644100 accommodation@brighton.ac.uk
Admissions and general enquiries
01273 642021 (Moulsecoomb) 01273 277016 (Grand Parade) childcare@brighton.ac.uk
This service handles all Brighton halls of residence queries and UniHome, Homestay and private sector accommodation enquiries for Brightonbased students.
01273 644644 enquiries@brighton.ac.uk The enquiries team are your first point of contact for help with studentcentral, activating your university account or any other questions you have about starting university.
Enrolment helpline
Eastbourne 01273 643810 accomeastbourne@brighton.ac.uk
01273 644777 studentadministration@brighton.ac.uk For questions about stage 1 online enrolment and stage 2 in-person enrolment.
Brighton and Sussex Medical School (BSMS)
Tuition fees enquiry team
studentservices@brighton.ac.uk www.brighton.ac.uk/current-students Twitter: @brightonstudent
01273 642449 fees@brighton.ac.uk For queries about what fees you need to pay and how to pay, contact the fee enquiry team. Fees, loans and grants 01273 642449 Fees assessment 01273 644500
Accommodation Our accommodation service is open Monday–Friday offering all students help and advice in finding somewhere to live. Check studentcentral and Facebook regularly for updates about accommodation.
01273 643528 medadmissions@bsms.ac.uk
When you are here
Information and advice from your campus Moulsecoomb 01273 642671 Grand Parade 01273 643187 Falmer 01273 643584 Eastbourne 01273 643845 Hastings 01273 644643
Careers Service Find part-time work and volunteering opportunities 01273 642855 careers@brighton.ac.uk
Disability and dyslexia 01273 643799 disability@brighton.ac.uk
Student advice service Specialist advice about issues including benefits, money management, visas and immigration 01273 642888 studentadvice@brighton.ac.uk
Sport Brighton Advice about our facilities, the availability of sports and activities and how to join in 01273 643520 www.brighton.ac.uk/sport
Brighton Students’ Union 01273 644679 www.brightonsu.com
This publication is available in alternative formats on request. University of Brighton Mithras House, Lewes Road Brighton, BN2 4AT www.brighton.ac.uk 29
YOUR COMPLETECAMPUS CHECKLIST MOULSECOOMB
BEFORE YOU GET HERE GETTING STARTED
Activate your university user
account. If you haven’t already, you need to activate your university user account – this will provide you with your university username and password for studentcentral. Log into studentcentral to read advice for students starting in September.
FINANCE
Make or update your student finance
application (UK and EU students only).
Work out a budget. Open a bank account. ACCOMMODATION
Arrange your accommodation (see our
accommodation checklist on page 09).
SOME OF YOU WILL ALSO NEED TO...
Book a place on international
orientation (international and European students). Arrange childcare and funding. Apply for Disabled Student Allowance (DSA). Check your vaccinations are up to date.
WHAT YOU CAN DO FROM 17 AUGUST
If you are getting your A-level results
today or already have your results, you can confirm your place with us. Join us on social media.
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WHAT YOU CAN DO FROM 24 AUGUST
Complete stage 1 online enrolment. Upload your university photo. The morning after online enrolment you can log into studentcentral where you can: check your course details including your start date and term and semester dates start using your university email account.
PREPARE FOR YOUR COURSE
Log into studentcentral. Check your start date Check the academic school and campus where your course is based. Complete all required pre-course preparation. Check the full timetable of events for your first week, including welcome programme events. Look at our academic study kit (ASK) resources www.brighton.ac.uk/ask.
GET READY FOR STUDENT LIFE
Check out Freshtival 2017 and sign up for Brighton Students’ Union Freshers’ mailing list at www.brightonsu.com.
ACCOMMODATION HALLS OF RESIDENCE
Read our halls allocation policy – this
explains who is eligible to apply and how to accept our offer of a room. For UK or EU students, if you are eligible and want to apply for halls you need to have done so by Saturday 16 July For international students,and students studying at Brighton and Sussex Medical School the deadline is Saturday 8 August.
We’ll let you know the outcome of your
accommodation application after the the relevant deadline has passed and after your place with us is unconditional – so if you’re waiting for results, we’ll let you know the outcome after your results are available and your place is fully confirmed. If we offer you a place in halls you need to pay the first rent instalment within seven days of us contacting you to secure your place. Join your halls Facebook group – we’ll email you details. Complete the online accommodation induction, where you’ll be given an arrival time.
PRIVATE ACCOMMODATION
Read our advice on looking for
accommodation in the private sector.
Join the house-hunting Facebook group for your location.
Check out studenthomes.brighton. ac.uk/accommodation.
Contact us about our house hunting service.
YOUR FIRST WEEK COMPLETE YOUR ENROLMENT AND GO TO COURSE EVENTS
Attend stage 2 in-person enrolment. Go to your course induction events. Go to the freshers’ fairs and Students’ Union events – join in Freshtival 2017.
Have fun, meet new people, join a club or society.
Get your NUS Extra card for student
discounts in shops, restaurants and online. Visit www.nus.org.uk/nusextra. Register with a doctor near where you live. Find out about our student services and how to find them if you need them.