From High School to Uni
Frequently Asked Questions

FAQs about University and Student Life

Find Answers about University and Student Life

Here, you will find answers to some of the most common questions that students have asked us about starting university or life on or off campus.

We are here to help you make the transition as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Do you need help with your essential university shopping list, a list of the official documents you will need, packing lists, how to create and plan your budget and manage your money, house sharing, or anything else related to student life? We have the expert advice and resources to help you.

If you can’t find what you need below, contact us and we will do our best to help you.

What documents are required for University?

Important documents you will need to take to university include:

Student ID number
University admission acceptance letter
Course acceptance letter
Accommodation contract
Passport (and valid visa documents)
Driving license
Student Finance documents
Scholarship or bursary confirmation
Contents Insurance
Passport photos

When do I get my student card?

This will depend on your university.

You should get your university student card either on:

Arrival
Move-in day
During Freshers Week.

Keep the student card safe, and also take a photo of it to keep in your phone in case it gets lost.

Your Student ID may also serve as an access badge that can give you access to buildings around campus. It will also be key to obtaining student discounts in shops, restaurants, cinema, concerts, etc. so keep it safe and on you at all times!

How can I open a bank account?

Check out our blog to help get you started.

Once you have received your Student ID, a registered residential address (student accommodation confirmation letter), and you have your passport, you can go to any bank and ask to open a student bank account.

Do your research first and read the small print.

Chapter 2 of our book From High School to Uni goes into great detail on opening a bank account - order your copy in the Shop tab on our website.

Check out the Glossary of Banking Terms in our Member Resources to understand better the terminology used by banks.

How can I manage student living allowance and expenses?

This answer varies to each individual personal financial situation

Managing a student living allowance will vary from person to person in different scenarios:

a) Parents pay for the accommodation rent, and living allowance. Student contributes with part-time job or savings.

b) Students get a student loan - the amount of which can vary.

- This may cover the entire amount of accommodation AND living allowance, or

- This may cover accommodation costs only and the student gets a job to cover living expenses.

c) Student loan covers accommodation or living allowance, and parents contribute the rest.

A general rule of thumb, if parents contribute, is that they may cover accommodation, food and travel, but for social life expenses, the student needs to get a job and cover these themselves.

Are university open days a good representation of the place?

Short answer: Yes and No

Open days are events where prospective students can visit the campus, find out about courses, facilities and the local area, and talk to lecturers and current students.

They can help you confirm or remove options from your list, get a feel for the university culture and environment, and ask any questions you may have.

However, a quick visit on campus will not give you the full picture of what life is like to study there on a permanent basis.

Do your own research in addition to the questions the Uni representative may tell you.

Do students need to get a TV licence in the UK?

Yes, if you live in one of the following scenarios:

- Student Halls of Residence: You'll need a licence to watch real-time TV or streaming services in your room in halls of residence.

- Sharing a private house or flat: If you share a house or flat with an individual tenancy agreement, you will need your own licence.

- Shared property: If you live in a house or flat with a shared tenancy agreement, just one licence covers the whole property.

See here for more specific details and a free downloadable information sheet.

How can I reduce my monthly utility bills?

There are several cost-effective ways to reduce your monthly utilities expenditure.

Try to use energy-efficient appliances and light bulbs, which can save you a lot of money on your energy bills.
Turn off lights and appliances when not in use. Don't leave the TV or Computer on standby mode.
Take shorter showers and fix any leaky taps to avoid wasting water and reduce the water bill.
Try to turn down the heating or radiator by just one degree, wear warmer clothes, and check all doors and windows for draughts (and ask to get them mended!).

How can I find the best utility provider who offers the most cost-effective packages for student bills?

Use comparison sites such as MoneySuperMarket, uSwitch, and Compare the Market.

These websites allow you to compare different providers and tariffs, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs and budget.

How can students accurately calculate their expected monthly utility bills?

To accurately calculate your expected monthly bills, you need to know your usage for each utility (electricity, gas, water, broadband, etc.).

How can I start preparing for University?

Order the book "From High School to Uni" obviously!

This is a one-stop shop detailing everything from pre-departure to surviving and thriving on campus and beyond.
Take our FREE course on Budgeting Basics: Check out our free resources tab and start creating a budget, together with your parents to figure out your living allowance needs and income to cover expenses.
Facebook groups: Usually there will be set-up groups on Facebook that you can join for your university. Whether that be for your course, your accommodation or just a general freshers chat. This way you can find your flatmates early and start chatting to your coursemates.
YouTube video tours of your accommodation: Once you have started researching the accommodation options onsite, you can usually look up the 360 tours posted by accommodation companies, so you can think about what to bring and what will fit in your room.
Student Ambassadors: Ask any questions you have to the student ambassadors of the university you've chosen. You should find these on the university website or social media.
WhatsApp groups: Once you have found out your course group, and even your new house-mates details, you can start or join a whatsapp group to ask questions, figure out who's bringing what so you don't all end up bring a toaster each!
Book your Freshers Week ticket!: There may be deadlines to buy your Freshers Week all-inclusive ticket by a certain date, so don't miss out. You may not need or want to participate it in everything, but check out the details. You'll enjoy the freebies given out during FW - pens, hats, pizza coupons, etc.
Look for a job: Start researching job sites if you need to contribute to your living expenses. Companies will no doubt be looking for replacement staff to take over graduates who have moved on, so update your CV and learn how to successfully do an interview!
Learn to cook a few dishes so you don't starve, and go food shopping with your parents to get an idea of how to shop on a budget.
Learn a few life skills such as how to do your laundry and make a bed too check out the how-to videos on our Free Resources! These are 'life skills' every student should know before departure!

What should I pack for university?

We have the essential university packing lists you need!

Essential items to pack include:

bedding, towels, toiletries, clothes, laptop, a small first aid kit, and any personal items that will make you feel at home.

Most other things you can buy onsite or order online to be delivered to your accommodation, if permitted.

Subscribe to our Student Resources to access a library of essential packing lists for university, checklists on what to do when, budget plan, meal planning guidance and much more.

When should I start packing for university?

Start preparing for your departure well before your university start date.

Check out our uni packing essentials lists to know exactly what and when to pack!

Gather items you think you would like to take well in advance of your planned departure. This will allow yourself time to identify what you want, already have, or what you need to buy or order to be delivered direct to your uni accommodation.

Subscribe to our Student Resources to access the essential uni packing lists, and much more.

What are some tips for travelling to university?

Read our blog on essential travel tips for students!

When travelling to university, pack light and plan your trip well in advance. Research your route, particularly if combining flights with public transport to calculate the timing of departure times of planes, trains, buses, etc.

Gather all your important documents in one place and take advantage of student discounts for reduced travel fares.

What should I bring for my kitchen?

A basic set of dishes, some utensils and cookware will get you started.

You can always buy additional items such as a toaster, kettle, coffee maker (Nespresso machine or equivalent) or microwave if you need them.

Don’t buy too much and be smart – you can use a fork instead of an egg whisk, for example!

Download our indispensable Kitchen checklist from Student Resources or buy the essentials directly here. More tips on what to pack and NOT to pack in our book.

Alternatively, you can order complete kitchen packs to be delivered directly to you university accommodation.

Do I need a laptop for university?

Absolutely - you will definitely need a laptop for university.

This is by far the quickest way to write your notes, look up assignments and presentations in real-time, and with software and websites designed to help students studying at university, it is the ultimate resource to help you stay organised and complete your assignments. It will also be crucial to back up your notes and assignments.

Do I need to buy text books and materials in advance?

The majority courses and study programs will have a required or recommended list of course materials, such as books, materials and equipment.

You can probably wait to see if certain books are compulsory or a nice-to-have, and either borrow them from the library, or save money by reaching out via social media to see if previous students or the Student Association with your university are selling their books.

Read more tips on saving money at university.

Do I need to bring a first aid kit?

Yes, it's a good idea to bring a first aid kit to university.

You never know when you might need it. You can download our free first aid kit checklist from our Free Resources tab, which includes links to buy the products directly from Amazon.

What bedding should I pack for university student room?

Check the university accommodation website for sizing.

Download our complete packing lists per room in Member Resources (believe me - we've done it many times, so you just need to follow our checklist!)

You will probably be issued with a duvet and one or two pillows in your room. You may wish to use these in addition to your own bedding, or as extra warmth if it gets cold! Remember to keep them stored safely if you don't use them as you will need to leave them there when you move out at the end of the year.

Take advantage of our discount code and order ready-made packs to be delivered direct to your university accommodation.

Can I bring a small fridge to university?

Check with the university first.

Some universities don't allow students to install fridges in their rooms as they may be deemed a fire hazard.

How much cash should I bring to university?

Bring enough cash to see you through until you open a bank account.

For international students, we recommend bringing enough cash to see you through the first couple of weeks at university - the time it will take you to open a student bank account and receive your bank debit and/or credit cards.

If you are moving to a university abroad, remember that unless you have an international credit card with a fixed exchange rate, you will be charged additional fees and exchange rates for every transaction you make, so think before you use your 'foreign' card.

Can I decorate my room at university?

Yes, you can definitely decorate your room, but read our blog first!

You may be banned from hanging fairy lights or lighting candles as they can be a fire hazard. Check the rules beforehand.

Make your room cosy, but don’t go overboard – remember it’s only temporary accommodation!

Our bedroom packing checklist in Member Resources will give you the complete list of ideal items to pack or buy for your room. Or check out our shopping list for student dorm essentials

How can I prepare for Uni?

Read our blog on how to prepare for Uni over the summer

Get a job! Any additional funds you can gather over and above your student loan, parents' contribution, grants, bursaries or savings will help go towards your living allowance.
Download our checklists from Student Resources and start organising what you need to take to university.
Take advantage of summer sales to buy bedding, stationery, laptop, toiletries, etc.
Sort all your university-related paperwork into a file, both on your laptop (backup to Google or iCloud!) and paper copies.
Apply for your student accommodation well before the deadline.
Apply for your Freshers Week ticket when available.
Start booking travel arrangements (flights, etc.)
Learn how to live independently - cook a few meals, do laundry, go food shopping, paying bills.
Create your monthly budget and learn how to track expenses (take our free Budgeting Basics course!)
Then enjoy some downtime, activities and family time, before you start university.

How can I get organised before starting university?

Check out your course content first.

Stay on top of the reading marked ESSENTIAL. The 'recommended' reading is good to read to give you more depth on a topic but the 'essential' reading is a must.
Stay on top of your coursework. This is an essential part of your overall grade, in addition to the exams to pass each module.
Create or download time planners to get used to organising your time and studies efficiently. Dedicate time to going over your notes to stay on top when it comes to revision for exams.
Learn how to make your bed and other life skills! Check out our "How to" videos on Free Resources.
Look up info about your university before you leave. Research what clubs you might like to join, view the campus map, find the nearest transport stops.
Creating a budget plan and practice managing a budget. Managing your finances is one of the hardest things you will have to learn. You can't keep asking parents for handouts, so manage your money carefully across each month.
Use Grammarly or similar to ensure quality assurance of your assignments before you submit them.
Learn how to reference correctly - you will need to know this from the start.

How do I make friends at university?

The quickest way to make friends at university is by signing up to join clubs and organisations, and attending campus events, particularly during Freshers’ Week.

You may also make friends with other students attending the same classes as you, study groups, as well as your flat-mates or neighbours living in halls of residence.

An alternative way if you prefer to meet people outside of the uni environment is by volunteering (charity shops, NGOs, or other societies) or offering your services like dogwalking, shopping for the elderly, etc.

What are some challenges related to living on university campus?

We address some of the following potential challenges you may experience as a university student in our book and our free resources and blogs - check them out for advice on how to deal with them.

Homesickness (you may miss family, but call often and embrace your new independence)
Transitioning to university life - the noise and crowds
Roommates (noise and respect levels)
Effective studying (being disciplined and finding your groove)
Time management (again, discipline - use the planners in our Resources section)
Budgeting (a big challenge for most)
Relationships (focus on what is important)
Partying (enjoy yourself, but be reasonable)
Read our blogs for help

Common Issues that uni students most struggle with include the following:

Anxiety, test anxiety, or panic attacks. Seek help from a professional to guide you on the triggers and remedies should you feel anxious.
Family expectations or problems. You can't worry about what you can't control - focus on doing your best at university, seek help if you need it, and try not to let any family issues affect your wellbeing at university.
Depression, lethargy, feeling overwhelmed, low self-esteem, homesickness, loneliness. Don't suffer alone. Speak up to your friends, student counsellor, program director or wellbeing office. The university has a duty of care to its students and is there to help you.
Relationship difficulties (emotional and physical aspects of intimate relationships). Relationships can be challenging at all stages of life and require effort - but don't let it take over. Keep your own interests and activities as well as your own friends and strike a healthy balance.
Budgeting - managing your finance and student living allowance is probably going to be your biggest challenge at university. Create a budget and learn to stick to it - this may take a few months, but you'll learn pretty quickly or risk going hungry if you don't! Check out our blogs and templates for help with creating a student budget.

How can I stay safe while living in the university town or city?

To stay safe while living in the university town or city, be aware of your surroundings, lock doors and windows, and avoid walking alone at night.

Know the location of emergency resources and have the phone numbers of Campus Security and your friends on speed dial.

Always let 1-2 friends know your plans and whereabouts or install the Find my phone or Life360 app which your friends will be able to access for an additional safety measure.

What are some tips for managing stress and maintaining a healthy lifestyle at university?

To manage stress and maintain a healthy lifestyle, you need to prioritise self-care, exercise regularly, eat well, get enough sleep, and make use of campus resources such as counselling services.

Consider taking supplements to ensure you have a balanced nutritional intake should your diet fulfil all the normal requirements.

It can be an overwhelming time, particularly if you’ve left home for the first time, and your mental health is important.

Read our blog on Feeling stressed about University or college for more guidance.

I'm really struggling. Can I drop out of university at any time?

You can drop out if you really feel you want to.

However, can you identify what is the issue? You may just need some guidance to help get you back on track.

Try to identify if it is financial worries - then explore if you can get financial aid or ask for help with your budget management (hint, we can help with a budget calculator - ask us if you can't manage our membership fee).

Is the subject matter not your thing? As your course director or tutor if it is possible to switch courses. You may need to apply again next year if too late into the term.

Are you struggling with mental health issues and need support? Contact your student support services, tutor, or medical services to get help.

You may be able to request an interruption of studies so you could return to complete your studies after an agreed break when you feel ready and able to handle it.

Talk to your university support services to discuss why you are thinking of dropping out and what can be done to support you.

What are effective strategies for coping with homesickness at university?

If you are feeling homesick at university, there are several things you can do to cope.

Firstly, do keep in touch with loved ones back home, but don’t beg to go home! You can get through it! Schedule regular phone or video calls, text, or emails with your family and friends to stay connected.

Second, get out and about, make new friends and socialise with people on campus. Join clubs or societies that interest you, attend events and get involved in activities.

Finally, make your new living space feel like home. Bring some familiar items with you, such as photos or decorations, and create a comfortable and cozy environment.

What can you do to avoid feeling homesick at night?

Feeling homesick at night is a common experience for many university students when you have some downtime and start to miss our routine at home.

To avoid it, you can try to establish a relaxing bedtime routine to help calm your nerves and get a good night’s sleep. This could include watching a movie, re-runs of FRIENDS, reading a book, doing some yoga, or listening to calming music.

Make your sleeping environment as comfortable as possible. Use comfortable bedding, cushions, and blankets, and try to keep your room at a comfortable temperature.

Avoid scrolling through photos of friends and family back home, as this can make you feel even more homesick.

Is it normal to feel homesick while studying abroad?

It is perfectly normal to feel homesick while studying abroad!

It's a big change to move to a new country and leave your familiar surroundings behind. It's important to remember that many other students will feel the same way.

Try to make friends with other international students, and explore your new surroundings to get the most out of your experience.

Go on day trips, take the bus and visit the area, explore the campus, and get to know the coffee shop owner.

All these things will give you a confidence boost and help you settle in.

How can parents deal with their student's homesickness?

If you are an adult or parent supporting a student who is feeling homesick, there are several things you can do to help.

First, listen to their concerns and offer emotional support.

Encourage them to stay in touch with loved ones back home and help them to find ways to make new friends and socialise on campus.

Finally, try to be patient and understanding. Homesickness is a common experience, and it may take some time for your student to adjust to their new environment.

What is the best advice for students living away from home?

If you are living away from home, the best advice is make new friends, socialise on campus, and create a comfortable living environment for yourself. It is important to stay connected with your family, friends, and loved ones to keep in touch.

Remember that it is normal to feel homesick, while your routine changes and you settle into your new environment. It is important to look after your mental health and wellbeing so seek help from university support counsellors if you need to.

Try to stay positive and make the most of your university experience.

How will withdrawing from a university course affect my future?

Withdrawing from a university course can have an impact on your future, but it's not necessarily a negative one.

It's important to consider the reasons why you want to withdraw and how it will affect your long-term goals.

Some employers may view a gap in your education negatively, but others may see it as an opportunity for personal growth and development, especially if you can demonstrate good use of your time spent following your withdrawal.

Work on your accomplishments to showcase real achievements if you go for an interview.

What should I do on my first day at university?

Get organized and Get out there!

On your first day:

Try to arrive early (if you haven’t been allocated a specific timeslot for arrival)
Drop your bags immediately in your room
Check out the kitchen and choose your kitchen shelves/cupboard
Make up your bed
Go food shopping. Don’t buy too much! Just enough to make sure you are immediately settled for the next few days.

Then walk around to familiarise yourself with the campus, meet your flatmates, and attend any introductory classes or orientation sessions. Read our blog on https://www.fromhighschooltouni.com/post/moving-into-university-halls-dos-and-donts.

How to unpack your Uni dorm

After picking up your key or building security badge/card, start organising your room.
Make up your bed and hang up your clothes.
Check out our Dorm Room and storage suggestions to store your clothes as you will likely have open shelves in your university accommodation.
Then unpack your bathroom items and study space essentials to make your dorm room feel like home.
Set up your study area using our Study Space checklist available in Member Resources.

What student services and resources are available on campus?

Contact Your Student Union for advice

Campus services and resources include academic advice, counselling services both for academic and personal situations or mental health. Resources also include career guidance services, health and wellness resources, recreational facilities, and technology support.

Check your university website for details, or contact the Student Union for advice.

Student Counsellors are usually assigned to a group of students to be their ‘guardian angel’ for guidance during the first few months.

What should I know about university culture and the local area?

To get to know the university culture and local area, attend Freshers’ Week events, join clubs and talk to other students.

Research the local area, including popular attractions and events, and get to know the people and places around campus by just exploring and getting yourself out there.

How do I find out what is on the university campus?

Explore the Campus Online or Arrange a Campus Tour

Most university websites will have a campus map online for you to explore in the comfort of your own home. The university website may even have webcams or provide 360 tours online.

Alternatively, if you are unable to attend a University Open Day, write to the university to arrange a campus tour, or just walk around. Guided tours are usually organized for Freshers Week, so try to attend events and activities, join clubs and organisations and meet up with other students.

How to find your flat mates at university

Connect on social media!

Once you receive your accommodation offer, you will be able to access Freshers pages and social media to start finding and connecting people in your accommodation.

If you haven't yet found it on the university pages, try creating or searching on Facebook, WhatsApp or Snap Chat the details of your university / hall or building name / block / flat number.

It's a good idea to discuss what people are planning to take, so you don't each turn up with a toaster. But start cautiously! You don't need to take the kitchen sink with you, and can buy or identify the extra things you need once unpacked and on site.

How do I create a student budget in Excel?

To create a student budget in Excel, you need to list all your expected sources of income (such as student loans, grants, and part-time job earnings) and expenses (such as tuition fees, rent, Wifi, bills, food, and transportation).

Subtracting your expenses from your income will indicate if you have enough funds to cover your expenses, or if you will need a student loan, overdraft, or get a job!

Subscribe to our Member Resources to get a student budget calculator, take our mini Budgeting Basics for Students course and read our blog on How to create a Student Budget for University.

How can I stay organised and manage my time effectively at university?

To stay organised and manage your time, use a planner, prioritise tasks, make to-do lists, eliminate distractions and find a study routine that works for you.

Check our blogs on effective studying tips for students.

Do you have any time management tips to use during revision time?

It is important to note your exam dates in advance, and work backwards so you know when to dedicate blocks of time for intense revision periods.

However, you should begin revising the material covered in the exams as soon as possible and preferably throughout the course.

Repetition is key - so you really memorise the material.

Set up your own quiet study space. Read the practice questions in textbooks, review quizzes or tests set by lecturers, and do an past exam papers you can find, in order to see how questions are asked.

Go to revision sessions and workshops, and ask your lecturers or student counsellors for help.

What are some tips for students on meal preparation and food shopping?

Meal preparation and planning a list before food shopping can save you time and money, and is one of the best ways to make your budget stretch further.

We have created an innovative student meal planner and shopping list in Member Resources, and you can read more essential tips on food, finding recipes online, batch cooking, making and storing leftovers, and when and how to shop at local supermarkets.

What are some useful study habits for students to improve productivity?

To improve productivity, create and schedule a regular daily or weekly study routine, breaking down tasks into smaller, more manageable chunks, and avoiding multitasking.

It is also important to take regular breaks, stay hydrated and get enough sleep.

Try active learning techniques such as summarising, note-taking and self-testing to help them retain information.

What are some daily planning strategies that can help students stay organised?

Having a daily plan can help structure your time and enables you to be more efficient.

The easiest way to start is to grab a notepad, make a to do list, then colour-code it to prioritise the most important or urgent tasks first.

Set specific goals! Don't bite off more than you can chew! Make each task specific, not generic so you don't get overwhelmed. For example, don't say "Revise for Chemistry exam", instead try "Make study notes of Chapters 1 & 2 of xx book".

What is the best way to revise?

Write a revision plan.

Split your time into 30 min chunks, and assign a topic per timeslot.

Make flashcards and carry them round with you to revise on the go. Bus ride? Revise. Coffee Shop? Revise. Getting your nails done? Revise!

What is the 2 3 5 7 revision rule?

Revise the first day, revisit the 2nd day, then the 3rd, then the 5th, then 7 days later.

When you sit down to revise a topic, take notes, revisit it the next day, then 3 days later, then 5 days later, and then 7 days later.

It is considered to be the right amount of time for your brain to digest and remember information.

How can I make revision for exams more fun?

Ways to make revision more fun and effective

Try different self-organisation strategies to see what works for you.

Start by decluttering your study space, so that - like an artist - you have a clean canvas on which to work.
Create a filing system for papers and for revision notes on your laptop.
Use colour coding or labels to categorise information and make it easier to find.
If you're not a revision cards type of student, try 'blurting' instead.
Turn the quiz you took in class into a revision guide. Take your paper home with you, and note the questions you got wrong, so you learn the correct information to retain in future. Check out this blog for more insightful details.

It is important to regularly review and update your system to ensure it remains effective. Remember the KISS rule - Keep It Simple, Stupid!

What is an effective study hack?

How to develop effect study habits?

Some of the most effective study hacks include developing good time management skills - be efficient with your time.

Remember, TikToks are fun and so informative for learning random stuff - but if you are scrolling for hours, you won't get your assignment done!

Block time for your studies. Commit to learning or revising a specific topic during that study session.

Use memory techniques such as mnemonics, acronyms, visual aids or revision cards to remember information better.

Remember to consult your professors, lecturers and student counsellors for help too. They are there to provide their expertise and support to you.

How do I stay organised?

Use a daily planner to block out time for tasks each day.

The best way to manage your time effectively is to use a daily planner or write yourself a to do list every night to plan out your day the next day.

Put your class schedule up on the wall by your bedroom or front door, so you see at a glance your daily and weekly classes.

Fill in any gaps with study time, assignments, regular revision periods, laundry, shopping, gym, etc.

By time-blocking, this will help you focus on getting tasks done and stay organised.

How can we split bills fairly among housemates?

Here are some options for you to consider when sharing a house off campus with other students:

Use a bill-splitting app like Splitwise to track shared expenses (utilities, groceries, etc.) and send automatic reminders for payments.
Divide costs by usage if appropriate (e.g., if one housemate uses a personal heater in their room, they might pay a higher portion of the electricity bill).
Set up a joint account for household expenses, where everyone contributes a fixed amount monthly.
For rent, split equally unless someone has a significantly larger room, in which case adjust proportions fairly.

Example: If the internet bill is $30/month and there are 5 housemates, each pays $6. For variable bills like electricity, share screenshots of the bill in a group chat to be transparent about the total sum.

For more guidance, read our blog How to split bills with house mates

How can you manage noise levels in a shared house?

Here are some options to manage noise when sharing a house:

Agree on quiet hours (e.g., 10 PM–8 AM).
Use noise cancelling headphones to drown out the noise, and for housemates listening to music.
Designate noisy zones vs quiet zones.
Communicate with your house mates about early starts or exam periods so you can revise effectively.

Example: Politely remind housemates about noise if needed.

For more guidance, read our 12 Essential House Sharing Tips for Students

How to manage cleaning duties when house sharing

Create a cleaning rota. With our Student Bundles, you can download our cleaning checklist and house sharing duties roster to help avoid arguments and show an easy list of who needs to do what!
Use whiteboards for reminders and agree on cleaning frequency. Once a month is probably a good idea!
Set a mess threshold (e.g., no dirty dishes to be left out overnight). It's a hygiene hazard to others, and especially annoying when you leave dirty pans in the sink. Nobody else is going to clean them for you!
Get a cleaner and everyone chips in to pay for it!

Example: Suggest everyone tidy up before bed.

For more guidance, read our 12 Essential House Sharing Tips for Students

How to set rules about guests staying overnight?

First of all, don't leave a discussion until an event causes an escalation. Discuss upfront with your house mates to avoid future arguments.

Set guest limits (e.g., 2 nights/week) with notice.
Ask long-term guests to contribute.
Respect shared spaces.
Use shared calendars to track guests.
Give advance notice and ensure responsible guest behaviour. The person hosting retains overall responsibility for their guests behaviour.

For more guidance, read our 12 Essential House Sharing Tips for Students

How to share the washing machine?

First of all, discuss and agree on a system for shared laundry.

Use a booking system (create a schedule or use Google Calendar).
Share loads to be more cost effective. Not enough whites to do a load but have something urgent? Ask your house mates if they any whites washed.
Set time limits during peak times. If everyone does their washing at the weekends, schedule usage by time slots (e.g., morning vs afternoon).
Set the rules - if you are not there when it's 'your' time slot, then it's fair game for someone else to do theirs. A text message checking would help too!
Empty your machines promptly when the cycle is finished. Don't hog the machine that others can use!

For more guidance, read our 12 Essential House Sharing Tips for Students

What is a fair way to keep a house tidy when you share?

Zone Assignments: Assign each housemate a "zone" (e.g., refrigerator shelves) to organize and clean weekly.
5-minute daily blitz: Set a timer for a quick group cleanup after dinner.
Photo reminders: Take a "clean standard" photo of the kitchen/living room for visual reference.
3-Strike Penalty: If a roommate consistently fails to do his or her part, come up with an appropriate punishment, like taking out the trash or recycling for a month to motivate them!

For more guidance, read our 12 Essential House Sharing Tips for Students

From High School to Uni Frequently Asked Questions

FAQs about University and Student Life

What documents are required for University?

Important documents you will need to take to university include:

When do I get my student card?

This will depend on your university.

How can I open a bank account?

Check out our blog to help get you started.

How can I manage student living allowance and expenses?

This answer varies to each individual personal financial situation

Are university open days a good representation of the place?

Short answer: Yes and No

Do students need to get a TV licence in the UK?

Yes, if you live in one of the following scenarios:

How can I reduce my monthly utility bills?

There are several cost-effective ways to reduce your monthly utilities expenditure.

How can I find the best utility provider who offers the most cost-effective packages for student bills?

Use comparison sites such as MoneySuperMarket, uSwitch, and Compare the Market.

How can students accurately calculate their expected monthly utility bills?

To accurately calculate your expected monthly bills, you need to know your usage for each utility (electricity, gas, water, broadband, etc.).

How can I start preparing for University?

Order the book "From High School to Uni" obviously!

What should I pack for university?

We have the essential university packing lists you need!

Essential items to pack include:

When should I start packing for university?

Start preparing for your departure well before your university start date.

Check out our uni packing essentials lists to know exactly what and when to pack!

What are some tips for travelling to university?

Read our blog on essential travel tips for students!

What should I bring for my kitchen?

A basic set of dishes, some utensils and cookware will get you started.

Do I need a laptop for university?

Absolutely - you will definitely need a laptop for university.

Do I need to buy text books and materials in advance?

Do I need to bring a first aid kit?

Yes, it's a good idea to bring a first aid kit to university.

What bedding should I pack for university student room?

Check the university accommodation website for sizing.

Can I bring a small fridge to university?

Check with the university first.

How much cash should I bring to university?

Bring enough cash to see you through until you open a bank account.

Can I decorate my room at university?

Yes, you can definitely decorate your room, but read our blog first!

How can I prepare for Uni?

Read our blog on how to prepare for Uni over the summer

How can I get organised before starting university?

Check out your course content first.

How do I make friends at university?

What are some challenges related to living on university campus?

Common Issues that uni students most struggle with include the following:

How can I stay safe while living in the university town or city?

What are some tips for managing stress and maintaining a healthy lifestyle at university?

I'm really struggling. Can I drop out of university at any time?

What are effective strategies for coping with homesickness at university?

What can you do to avoid feeling homesick at night?

Is it normal to feel homesick while studying abroad?

It is perfectly normal to feel homesick while studying abroad!

All these things will give you a confidence boost and help you settle in.

How can parents deal with their student's homesickness?

What is the best advice for students living away from home?

How will withdrawing from a university course affect my future?

What should I do on my first day at university?

Get organized and Get out there!

How to unpack your Uni dorm

What student services and resources are available on campus?

Contact Your Student Union for advice

What should I know about university culture and the local area?

How do I find out what is on the university campus?

Explore the Campus Online or Arrange a Campus Tour

How to find your flat mates at university

Connect on social media!

How do I create a student budget in Excel?

How can I stay organised and manage my time effectively at university?

Do you have any time management tips to use during revision time?

What are some tips for students on meal preparation and food shopping?

What are some useful study habits for students to improve productivity?

What are some daily planning strategies that can help students stay organised?

What is the best way to revise?

From High School to Uni
Frequently Asked Questions