Freshers’ Week Explained: What to Expect and How to Prepare

Freshers’ Week is your introduction to university life.

It is usually a busy mixture of moving in, meeting new people, completing registration, finding your way around campus and attending events. You may also have course inductions, library tours, society fairs and important administrative tasks to complete before teaching begins.

Despite the name, Freshers’ Week is not simply seven nights of parties.

Universities may call it:

• Freshers’ Week.

• Welcome Week.

• Induction Week.

• Orientation Week.

• Welcome and Registration Week.

It may last a few days, one week or longer, depending on the university and course.

Some students love the excitement. Others find the crowds, pressure and constant introductions exhausting. Most experience a slightly chaotic mixture of both.

This guide explains what happens during Freshers’ Week, which activities matter, how much it might cost and how to enjoy the start of university without feeling that you must attend everything.

What Is Freshers’ Week?

Freshers’ Week is a programme of activities organised for new university students at the beginning of the academic year.

Its main purposes are to help you:

• Complete university registration.

• Understand how your course works.

• Learn your way around campus.

• Discover university services.

• Meet your lecturers and coursemates.

• Explore clubs and societies.

• Settle into accommodation.

• Make social connections.

• Prepare for teaching.

UCAS describes Freshers’ or Welcome Week as a week of activities at the beginning of term designed to help students meet people, understand their university and become familiar with their new surroundings.

The exact programme varies between universities. Your university should provide an official timetable through its website, app, student portal or email.

When Is Freshers’ Week?

Freshers’ Week normally takes place immediately before teaching begins or during the first week of the academic term.

For many UK universities, this is in September or early October. However, start dates vary between:

• Universities.

• Courses.

• Campuses.

• Undergraduate and postgraduate programmes.

• Home and international students.

• Healthcare and placement-based courses.

International students may also have an earlier orientation programme covering matters such as immigration, UK banking, healthcare and adjusting to life in the UK.

Do not rely on a friend’s start date, even if they are attending the same university. Different courses can have different arrival, induction and teaching schedules.

Check:

• Your official course start date.

• Your accommodation arrival slot.

• Your registration deadline.

• Your course induction timetable.

• Whether any activities are compulsory.

• When normal teaching begins.

Is Freshers’ Week Compulsory?

The social side is normally optional.

You do not have to attend:

• Nightclubs.

• Parties.

• Bar crawls.

• Every society event.

• Every social gathering.

• Events that make you uncomfortable.

However, some academic and administrative sessions may be compulsory or extremely important.

These can include:

• University registration.

• Identity checks.

• Course induction.

• Health and safety training.

• Laboratory inductions.

• Placement briefings.

• Meetings required by professional courses.

• Visa or immigration checks.

• Library or technology registration.

• Module selection.

• Meetings with your personal tutor.

Missing an optional film night is unlikely to matter.

Missing a compulsory laboratory safety session may prevent you from taking part in practical work.

Read every timetable carefully and mark required sessions clearly.

What Happens During Freshers’ Week?

Every university organises Welcome Week differently, but most programmes include a mixture of practical, academic and social activities.

Moving Into University Accommodation

For students living in halls, Freshers’ Week often begins with moving day.

You may need to:

• Collect your keys.

• Show photographic identification.

• Complete an accommodation inventory.

• Check your room for damage.

• Meet your flatmates.

• Learn the building rules.

• Attend a fire safety briefing.

• Set up your internet connection.

• Locate laundry and waste facilities.

• Find the nearest supermarket.

• Work out how the kitchen operates.

Photograph any existing damage before unpacking and report it through the official

accommodation system. Keep copies of photographs, inventories and emails.

Your first flat meeting does not need to establish a legally binding constitution for the shared fridge. However, it is worth discussing:

• Which items can be shared.

• How cleaning will work.

• Noise expectations.

• Allergies.

• Food storage.

• Guests.

• Locking doors.

• Buying shared essentials.

Read Living with Flatmates and Student Accommodation Contracts Explained for further advice.

University Registration

Registration officially confirms that you have joined the university.

Some parts may be completed online before arrival, followed by an in-person identity check.

You may need:

• Your passport or another accepted form of identification.

• Your university or applicant number.

• Visa documentation, where applicable.

• Evidence of qualifications.

• A photograph.

• Contact information.

• Tuition fee or student finance details.

Once registered, you may receive:

• Your student identification card.

• University login details.

• Library access.

• Access to online learning systems.

• Your full timetable.

• Confirmation of student status.

Completing registration may also be necessary before the university can confirm your attendance to your student finance provider.

Keep your important documents together and check the university’s instructions before travelling.

Course Induction

Course induction introduces you to your department and academic programme.

You may meet:

• Lecturers.

• Tutors.

• Course administrators.

• Laboratory or technical staff.

• Placement teams.

• Student representatives.

• Other students on your course.

Sessions may explain:

• The course structure.

• Modules.

• Assessment methods.

• Attendance expectations.

• Academic regulations.

• Referencing.

• Plagiarism and academic integrity.

• Use of artificial intelligence.

• Deadlines.

• Personal tutoring.

• Academic support.

• Placements or practical work.

• How to contact the department.

Take these sessions seriously.

You are likely to receive a great deal of information, so make notes and save important links. You do not need to memorise everything immediately, but you should know where to find it later.

Campus Tours

A campus tour can help you locate:

• Lecture theatres.

• Seminar rooms.

• Laboratories.

• The library.

• Student services.

• The students’ union.

• Medical or wellbeing services.

• Sports facilities.

• Cafés.

• Faith and reflection spaces.

• Security.

• Your department.

• Bus stops and cycle storage.

Even if you explored during an open day, the university can feel very different when it is full of students.

Try walking from your accommodation or transport stop to your first teaching room before lectures begin.

A ten-minute practice walk is preferable to discovering at 8:58 on Monday morning that “Science Building” and “Science Centre” are on opposite sides of the city.

Library and Technology Induction

You may receive information about:

• Borrowing books.

• Accessing digital journals.

• University email.

• Online learning platforms.

• Lecture recordings.

• Printing.

• Wi-Fi.

• Referencing software.

• Academic databases.

• Laptop loans.

• Study spaces.

• Technical support.

Set up your accounts promptly.

Check that you can access:

• Your university email.

• Your timetable.

• The virtual learning environment.

• Library resources.

• Any course-specific software.

University staff will usually send important information to your university email address rather than your personal account.

Meeting Your Personal Tutor

Many universities assign students a personal tutor or academic adviser.

The tutor may help with:

• Academic progress.

• Settling into the course.

• Study concerns.

• Module choices.

• Accessing support.

• References.

• Planning future opportunities.

Find out:

• Who your tutor is.

• How to contact them.

• How appointments work.

• Whether regular meetings are expected.

• What kinds of problems they can help with.

Do not wait for a major problem before introducing yourself.

The Freshers’ Fair

The Freshers’ Fair, Welcome Fair or Activities Fair is one of the main events of the week.

It usually brings together:

• Student societies.

• Sports clubs.

• University services.

• The students’ union.

• Volunteering projects.

• Local organisations.

• Employers.

• Student media.

• Campaign groups.

• Faith and cultural communities.

UCAS recommends using the fair to explore societies, attend taster sessions and identify activities that genuinely interest you. It suggests trying a manageable number rather than signing up for everything and attending nothing.

Before paying a membership fee, ask:

• What does membership include?

• How often does the society meet?

• Are taster sessions free?

• Are there additional event costs?

• Is specialist equipment needed?

• Can you join later?

• Are beginners welcome?

• How active is the society throughout the year?

Collect information, but do not feel pressured to purchase every membership immediately.

A tote bag, twelve pens and a suspicious quantity of pizza do not create a contractual obligation to join the rowing club.

Joining Clubs and Societies

Societies are groups organised around shared interests, backgrounds, subjects or activities.

These might include:

• Academic subjects.

• Sports.

• Music.

• Drama.

• Gaming.

• Film.

• Politics.

• Volunteering.

• Faith.

• Culture and language.

• Career interests.

• Student media.

• Creative activities.

• Campaigning.

• Food.

• Outdoor activities.

Joining a society can help you meet people outside your accommodation and course.

UCAS notes that societies, sports, volunteering and course groups can create repeated opportunities to meet people with similar interests, and students can usually join throughout the year rather than only during Freshers’ Week.

Choose activities you are genuinely likely to attend.

One society that becomes part of your weekly routine is more useful than fifteen mailing lists you automatically delete by November.

Social Events

Freshers’ Week social events can include:

• Club nights.

• Live music.

• Comedy.

• Quizzes.

• Film screenings.

• Board-game evenings.

• Craft sessions.

• Sports tasters.

• City tours.

• Food events.

• Cultural activities.

• Coffee mornings.

• Alcohol-free socials.

• Escape rooms.

• Outdoor activities.

• Events organised by halls or departments.

UCAS specifically notes that universities offer both nights out and nights in, and students should not feel pressured to drink or attend nightclub events.

Check whether an event is:

• Officially organised by the university or students’ union.

• Organised by a society.

• Run by an independent promoter.

• Free or ticketed.

• Included in an official wristband.

• Suitable for your interests and access needs.

Do You Need a Freshers’ Wristband?

Some universities or students’ unions sell a Freshers’ Pass or wristband that covers several events.

Before buying one, check:

• Which events are included.

• Whether you actually want to attend them.

• Whether events are on your campus.

• Whether your flatmates or coursemates have made plans.

• Whether tickets can be purchased individually.

• Whether the seller is official.

• Whether refunds or transfers are allowed.

UCAS estimates that Freshers’ passes can cost around £30 to £100, depending on the institution and number of included events.

Be cautious about countdown messages claiming an unofficial wristband is “almost sold out” months before anyone has met their flatmates.

Use links provided by the university or students’ union wherever possible.

How Much Does Freshers’ Week Cost?

Freshers’ Week can be as cheap or expensive as you make it.

Possible costs include:

• Event tickets.

• A wristband.

• Society memberships.

• Food and drinks.

• Transport.

• Clothing.

• Sports equipment.

• Takeaways.

• Moving essentials.

• Course supplies.

• Household items.

UCAS currently suggests budgeting up to £350 for Freshers’ Week itself, although actual spending varies considerably. It estimates Freshers’ passes at around £30 to £100 and many society memberships at between free and approximately £20.

You do not need to spend that much.

Many activities are:

• Free.

• Included in university programmes.

• Run by accommodation teams.

• Organised by academic departments.

• Available through society taster sessions.

• Based around low-cost daytime activities.

Create a separate Freshers’ Week budget rather than treating the first Maintenance Loan instalment as a personal lottery win.

Freshers’ Week Budgeting Tips

Decide on a Total Budget

Choose an amount you can afford before the week starts.

Divide it between:

• Essential purchases.

• Food.

• Transport.

• Events.

• Society memberships.

• Emergency money.

Do Not Join Everything Immediately

Attend free taster sessions first.

Societies usually continue recruiting after Freshers’ Week, so you rarely need to make every decision at the fair.

Check What Is Included

A ticket may include entry but not:

• Transport.

• Food.

• Drinks.

• Cloakroom charges.

• Equipment.

• Additional activities.

Avoid Constant Takeaways

A few simple meals can protect both your budget and your energy.

Stock your kitchen with:

• Pasta.

• Rice.

• Bread.

• Eggs.

• Frozen vegetables.

• Tinned food.

• Fruit.

• Breakfast items.

• Easy snacks.

Keep Emergency Money Separate

Do not spend the money needed for:

• Medication.

• Transport.

• Food.

• Phone bills.

• Course materials.

• Unexpected costs.

Read Budgeting for Students and Cooking on a Student Budget for practical help.

Making Friends During Freshers’ Week

Almost everybody worries about making friends, including the people who appear extremely confident.

You may meet dozens of people during your first week and remember approximately four names.

That is normal.

Start with simple questions:

• What course are you studying?

• Where have you moved from?

• Which accommodation are you in?

• Have you worked out the timetable?

• Are you going to the fair?

• Have you found a decent supermarket?

• Which societies are you considering?

UCAS advises students to speak to people in their accommodation and on their course, while remembering that friendships develop at different speeds.

You do not need to be endlessly interesting.

Most new students are relieved when someone else begins the conversation.

You Do Not Need to Find Your Best Friends Immediately

Freshers’ Week creates the impression that friendship groups form instantly.

Some do.

Others change completely after:

• Teaching begins.

• Societies start meeting.

• Students discover shared interests.

• People become more comfortable.

• Early flatmate groups expand.

• Students begin working or volunteering.

UCAS explicitly reassures students that there is no pressure to meet a best friend during the first week.

Aim to make connections, not complete your lifetime friendship allocation before Friday.

What If You Are Shy or Introverted?

Freshers’ Week can be tiring if constant socialising drains your energy.

Try:

• Attending smaller daytime events.

• Choosing structured activities.

• Arriving early, before rooms become crowded.

• Going to course-based events.

• Joining a society linked to an existing interest.

• Asking one person to attend something with you.

• Taking breaks in your room or the library.

• Using online course or accommodation groups.

• Attending alcohol-free events.

Structured activities often make conversations easier because everyone already has something to do.

You do not need to transform into the loudest person in the building.

What If You Do Not Drink Alcohol?

You can still participate fully in Freshers’ Week.

You can:

• Attend alcohol-free events.

• Order a soft drink.

• Leave an event whenever you choose.

• Suggest coffee, food or daytime activities.

• Join societies and sports clubs.

• Attend course socials.

• Organise a film or games night.

• Look for sober or alcohol-free student groups.

You do not owe anyone an explanation for not drinking.

“I don’t drink” is a complete sentence.

A good social group will not require you to ignore your health, religion, recovery, medication,

budget or personal preferences.

Staying Safe on Nights Out

Plan before leaving.

Make sure you have:

• Your phone.

• Enough battery.

• Your keys.

• Identification.

• A payment method.

• Your accommodation address.

• A plan for travelling home.

• Contact details for friends.

• The university security number.

Tell somebody where you are going and try to travel with people you trust.

Other sensible precautions include:

• Keeping your drink with you.

• Not accepting open drinks from strangers.

• Avoiding walking home alone where safer options are available.

• Using licensed or trusted transport.

• Staying with an unwell friend.

• Calling emergency services when somebody is in serious danger.

• Never driving under the influence.

• Respecting other people’s boundaries.

Safety is more important than avoiding embarrassment.

Alcohol and Freshers’ Week

There is no requirement to drink.

Students who choose to drink should understand that alcohol strength and serving sizes vary.

Current NHS guidance advises adults not to drink more than 14 units a week on a regular basis and to spread drinking across three or more days when consuming that amount.

To reduce risk:

• Eat before drinking.

• Drink slowly.

• Alternate alcohol with water or soft drinks.

• Avoid mixing large quantities.

• Decide on a limit before going out.

• Do not pressure anyone else to drink.

• Do not leave an unwell person alone.

• Do not assume sleep is the correct response to a possible overdose.

Call 999 when someone:

• Is unconscious.

• Cannot be woken.

• Is having difficulty breathing.

• Has a seizure.

• Has suffered a serious injury.

• May have taken an overdose.

• Is in immediate danger.

Consent During Freshers’ Week

Consent must be:

• Freely given.

• Informed.

• Specific.

• Ongoing.

• Reversible.

Someone who is asleep, unconscious or severely intoxicated cannot provide meaningful consent.

Previous interest, flirting, kissing or going back to someone’s room does not create automatic consent to anything else.

Check in.

Listen to the answer.

Stop when someone says no, hesitates, becomes uncomfortable or is unable to communicate clearly.

Universities should provide information about reporting harassment, sexual misconduct and unsafe behaviour. Save the relevant support details before you need them.

Drink Spiking

Drink spiking involves adding alcohol or another substance to someone’s drink without their knowledge or giving them more alcohol than they agreed to.

Possible warning signs include becoming:

• Much more intoxicated than expected.

• Confused.

• Disorientated.

• Unable to communicate normally.

• Unsteady.

• Extremely sleepy.

• Suddenly unwell.

• Unable to remember events.

If you think a drink has been spiked:

1. Tell a trusted friend, member of staff or security.

2. Move to a safe place.

3. Do not leave alone.

4. Seek urgent medical help if symptoms are severe.

5. Call 999 if there is immediate danger.

6. Keep the drink where possible.

7. Consider reporting the incident to the police and university.

Do not dismiss a friend because you think they “just drank too much”.

Registering With a GP

Students who spend most of the year at university should register with a GP near their university as soon as possible.

The NHS explains that local registration helps students access healthcare quickly, particularly those with ongoing conditions or regular medication.

During Freshers’ Week, find out:

• Whether the university has a health centre.

• How to register.

• Where the nearest pharmacy is.

• How to obtain repeat prescriptions.

• Where to access sexual health services.

• How to contact NHS 111.

• Where the nearest urgent treatment centre is.

Do not wait until you become ill to work out how healthcare works.

Check Your Vaccinations

The NHS advises new university students to check that they have received recommended vaccinations, including MenACWY and two doses of MMR where appropriate.

For students beginning university in autumn 2026, eligible new students can also access the MenB vaccination programme. The MenB course requires two doses at least four weeks apart, and eligibility extends to many first-time students beginning university that autumn, including eligible international and UK students.

Check the latest official NHS guidance for your nation and individual eligibility.

Vaccination arrangements may differ across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Freshers’ Flu

Freshers’ Flu is the informal name given to the coughs, colds and other minor illnesses that often circulate when large numbers of students arrive from different places and begin spending time together.

You cannot prevent every illness, but you can help yourself by:

• Sleeping.

• Eating proper meals.

• Drinking water.

• Washing your hands.

• Keeping your room reasonably ventilated.

• Not sharing drinks.

• Taking prescribed medication correctly.

• Resting when you become unwell.

• Asking a pharmacist for advice where appropriate.

The NHS advises students to prioritise sleep and regular, nutritious food to support their health and ability to cope with study.

Seek medical advice when symptoms are severe, persistent or worrying.

Call 999 for a medical emergency.

Homesickness During Freshers’ Week

Homesickness can begin:

• On moving day.

• After family members leave.

• During the first quiet evening.

• Once the initial excitement ends.

• When something goes wrong.

• When you are tired or ill.

• After seeing other students appear instantly settled.

Missing home does not mean you made the wrong decision.

Helpful steps include:

• Unpacking familiar belongings.

• Eating and sleeping regularly.

• Planning a call home.

• Spending some time outside your room.

• Attending one manageable event.

• Speaking to a flatmate or coursemate.

• Finding your department.

• Learning the local area.

• Contacting student support.

Avoid judging your entire university experience from one emotional evening.

Read Living Away from Home and Looking After Your Mental Health for more support.

What If You Hate Freshers’ Week?

Not enjoying Freshers’ Week does not mean you will dislike university.

You may dislike:

• Crowds.

• Nightclubs.

• Noise.

• Constant introductions.

• Shared accommodation.

• Unstructured time.

• Being away from home.

• The pressure to appear excited.

• Spending money.

• Not yet knowing anyone properly.

Teaching can create a completely different experience.

Once the course begins, you may find:

• More routine.

• Smaller groups.

• Shared academic interests.

• Quieter friendships.

• Regular society meetings.

• Familiar faces.

• A clearer sense of purpose.

Freshers’ Week is an introduction, not the final verdict on university life.

Feeling Overwhelmed

Freshers’ Week can involve more information and social contact than you are used to.

Give yourself permission to:

• Miss optional events.

• Spend time alone.

• Go to bed early.

• Eat somewhere quiet.

• Call home.

• Leave a party.

• Change your plans.

• Say no.

• Ask for help.

• Attend only one event in a day.

UCAS recommends making time to rest and learning which university support services are available during the first week.

You do not receive extra academic credit for being exhausted before lectures begin.

Finding University Support

The Freshers’ Fair and induction programme should introduce you to support services.

These may include:

• Student wellbeing.

• Counselling.

• Disability services.

• Academic skills.

• Financial support.

• Careers.

• Accommodation support.

• International student services.

• Safeguarding.

• Chaplaincy and faith support.

• Students’ union advice.

• Study support.

• Security.

Save the contact details now.

You can use support for smaller concerns before they become crises.

Freshers’ Week for Commuting Students

Living at home does not mean Freshers’ Week is irrelevant.

UCAS encourages commuting students to attend the Welcome Fair and explore services, activities and travel support available through the university.

To make the most of the week:

• Attend course induction.

• Explore the campus.

• Join a society.

• Learn the last train or bus times.

• Identify places to spend gaps between classes.

• Join course group chats.

• Attend daytime events.

• Check whether commuter groups exist.

• Explore travel discounts.

• Use the library and students’ union.

Commuting can make spontaneous evening events more difficult, so plan transport before attending.

Freshers’ Week for Mature Students

Freshers’ Week is not only for 18-year-olds living in halls.

Mature students can use it to:

• Understand university systems.

• Meet coursemates.

• Explore student support.

• Find mature student networks.

• Join relevant societies.

• Learn the campus.

• Access careers and academic services.

• Meet other commuting or part-time students.

You do not need to take part in nightlife to benefit from Welcome Week.

Prioritise:

• Registration.

• Course events.

• Academic induction.

• The Freshers’ Fair.

• Events that fit your schedule and interests.

Freshers’ Week for International Students

International students may have additional orientation sessions covering:

• Visa checks.

• Police registration requirements, where applicable.

• UK banking.

• Healthcare.

• Mobile phones.

• Cultural adjustment.

• Academic expectations.

• English language support.

• Local transport.

• Student employment rules.

• Safety.

• Immigration advice.

Bring required immigration and identity documents to registration.

Attend official international orientation even when you feel confident about living in the UK. It is an opportunity to meet people in a similar situation and learn which university team can help with future questions.

Read Life in the UK as an International Student and Opening a UK Bank Account.

Freshers’ Week for Disabled Students

Contact disability or accessibility services before arrival where possible.

Ask about:

• Accessible accommodation.

• Campus routes.

• Orientation support.

• Lecture access.

• Assistive technology.

• Examination adjustments.

• Quiet spaces.

• Personal emergency evacuation plans.

• Specialist mentoring.

• Disabled Students’ Allowance.

• Access to Freshers’ Week events.

You do not need to wait until teaching begins to request support.

Check whether event accessibility information includes:

• Step-free access.

• Seating.

• Hearing loops.

• Accessible toilets.

• Quiet rooms.

• Lighting information.

• Captioning.

• Advance booking arrangements.

Avoiding Freshers’ Week Scams

New students may be targeted with fake or misleading offers.

Be cautious about:

• Unofficial event wristbands.

• Fake accommodation messages.

• Bogus student finance emails.

• Requests for bank security codes.

• Jobs requiring an upfront payment.

• Fake parcel messages.

• Social media ticket sellers.

• Offers that create extreme urgency.

• People asking to use your bank account.

• Links that imitate university websites.

Protect yourself by:

• Using official university and students’ union pages.

• Checking email addresses.

• Avoiding rushed bank transfers.

• Using secure payment methods.

• Contacting the organisation through a separately verified number.

• Never sharing passwords or one-time security codes.

• Speaking to your bank immediately if money has been taken.

Free pizza is plausible.

A stranger needing temporary access to your bank account so you can earn £500 is not.

Academic Preparation During Freshers’ Week

Social events may be more visible, but the week is also the beginning of your course.

Use it to:

• Check your timetable.

• Find teaching rooms.

• Download required apps.

• Set up university email.

• Access reading lists.

• Check assessment dates.

• Review module information.

• Buy only essential materials.

• Learn how the library works.

• Add deadlines to a calendar.

• Understand attendance expectations.

• Learn where academic support is located.

Do not buy every textbook immediately.

Check whether:

• It is available through the library.

• A digital copy is provided.

• Only selected chapters are required.

• A previous edition is acceptable.

• A second-hand copy is available.

• Your lecturer recommends purchasing it.

Common Freshers’ Week Mistakes

Trying to Attend Everything

You will become exhausted and enjoy very little of it.

Choose a mixture of essential sessions, social events and rest.

Skipping Academic Induction

Course induction may contain information you need throughout the year.

Spending Too Much

The first student finance payment must last longer than Freshers’ Week.

Buying Unofficial Tickets Too Early

Wait for information from your university or students’ union.

Signing Up for Too Many Societies

Try a few and commit to the ones you genuinely enjoy.

Expecting Instant Friendships

Friendships develop at different speeds.

Ignoring Your Health

Sleep, medication, food and water still matter.

Going Somewhere Without a Route Home

Check transport before leaving.

Feeling Pressured to Drink

Participation in university life does not require alcohol.

Comparing Yourself With Social Media

Photographs show selected moments, not somebody’s complete emotional experience.

Assuming Everyone Else Is Confident

Many people are nervous and hoping somebody else starts the conversation.

Freshers’ Week Checklist

Before You Arrive

• Check your arrival date.

• Book your accommodation slot.

• Read your Welcome Week timetable.

• Identify compulsory sessions.

• Complete online registration.

• Gather identification and documents.

• Set up university logins.

• Check your student finance details.

• Create a Freshers’ Week budget.

• Check official event information.

• Arrange medication.

• Check vaccinations.

• Plan your journey.

• Save university security contacts.

• Join official course or accommodation groups.

On Moving Day

• Collect your keys.

• Inspect the room.

• Photograph existing damage.

• Complete the inventory.

• Test locks and essential equipment.

• Unpack medication and bedding first.

• Meet your flatmates.

• Locate fire exits.

• Find the nearest shop.

• Check the next day’s timetable.

• Contact home to confirm you arrived safely.

During Freshers’ Week

• Complete registration.

• Collect your student card.

• Attend course induction.

• Find teaching rooms.

• Attend the Freshers’ Fair.

• Try a society or sports session.

• Set up university email.

• Explore the library.

• Register with a GP.

• Save wellbeing contacts.

• Learn your route home.

• Track your spending.

• Eat proper meals.

• Sleep.

• Make time for yourself.

Before Teaching Begins

• Check your full timetable.

• Add deadlines to your calendar.

• Access reading lists.

• Download required software.

• Find your personal tutor’s details.

• Confirm your student finance payment.

• Buy only essential course materials.

• Review attendance expectations.

• Prepare for your first lecture.

• Check that you know where to ask for help.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is Freshers’ Week?

Freshers’ Week, also called Welcome Week, is a programme of activities for new students at the beginning of university. It usually includes registration, induction, campus tours, support information, social events and society fairs.

How Long Does Freshers’ Week Last?

It normally lasts around a week, but some universities organise several days or multiple weeks of welcome activities.

Check your university timetable for exact dates.

Does Teaching Start During Freshers’ Week?

Sometimes.

Some universities begin normal teaching after Welcome Week, while others include introductory teaching or compulsory course sessions during it.

Is Freshers’ Week Compulsory?

Social events are usually optional.

Registration, course induction, safety training and other academic or administrative sessions may be compulsory.

Do I Have to Go Clubbing?

No.

Universities normally offer a range of daytime, evening and alcohol-free events. UCAS highlights alternatives including films, board games and other activities for students who do not want nightclub events.

Do I Have to Drink?

No.

You can participate in Freshers’ Week without drinking alcohol, and nobody should pressure you to drink.

How Much Money Do I Need?

It depends on your plans and what you still need to buy.

UCAS suggests budgeting up to £350 for Freshers’ Week, but you can spend considerably less by choosing free events, limiting takeaways and delaying society memberships until after taster sessions.

Should I Buy a Freshers’ Wristband?

Only after checking which events are included, whether the seller is official and whether you genuinely want to attend.

You can often buy individual tickets instead.

What Should I Wear?

Wear something appropriate for the event and comfortable enough for walking around campus.

You do not need an entirely new wardrobe.

What Is a Freshers’ Fair?

It is an event where societies, sports teams, university services and other organisations introduce their activities to new students.

Should I Join Lots of Societies?

Explore several, but begin with a manageable number.

UCAS recommends trying a few and committing to at least one that you genuinely enjoy.

What If I Do Not Make Friends?

Do not panic.

Friendships develop throughout university through courses, societies, work, volunteering and accommodation. UCAS notes that students make friends at different speeds.

Can Commuting Students Attend Freshers’ Week?

Yes.

Commuting students should attend academic induction and can participate in fairs, societies, daytime events and support sessions.

Should I Register With a GP?

Students who spend most of the year at their university address should register with a local GP as soon as possible.

Which Vaccinations Should I Check?

Check current NHS guidance for your location and circumstances. New students are commonly advised to check MenACWY and MMR vaccinations, and eligible students starting in autumn 2026 may also receive MenB vaccination.

Is Freshers’ Flu Real?

Freshers’ Flu is not one specific illness. It is an informal term for the coughs, colds and minor illnesses that often circulate when many new students begin mixing.

Is It Normal to Feel Homesick?

Yes.

Homesickness can happen even when you were excited to leave home. Give yourself time, establish routines and use university support when needed.

What If I Hate Freshers’ Week?

That does not mean you will hate university.

Teaching, societies and regular routines can create a very different experience after Welcome Week ends.

What If I Miss Freshers’ Week?

Contact your university to check:

• Whether registration is complete.

• Which compulsory sessions you missed.

• How to collect your student card.

• Where to find induction materials.

• How to join societies.

• Whether a late welcome event is available.

You can join activities and meet people throughout the year.

Final Advice for Freshers’ Week

Freshers’ Week is not a competition to attend the most events, make the most friends or remain awake for the greatest number of consecutive hours.

It is an opportunity to begin finding your place at university.

Focus on the essentials:

• Complete registration.

• Attend course induction.

• Explore the campus.

• Learn where support is available.

• Speak to new people.

• Try a few activities.

• Protect your budget.

• Look after your health.

• Rest when you need to.

You may have an unforgettable week.

You may have a slightly awkward week involving lost keys, forgotten names and a large number of free pens.

Both are completely normal beginnings.

University life develops over months and years, not seven days. Freshers’ Week only needs to help you take the first few steps.