Starting university is a big step for students and often an adjustment for parents and carers too.
As students navigate key milestones throughout their university journey, a range of support services are available to help them settle in, succeed in their studies and make the most of their experience.
Before beginning their studies, there are a number of essential tasks that new students are required to complete. There are also additional steps they can take to begin to find their community, get used to the University systems and services and prepare for student life.
Moving into accommodation
Settling in support
Welcome Week is 14 - 18 September 2026. During Welcome Week, students are encouraged to get involved in activities and events such as campus tours and the Students' Union Activities Fayre.
Teaching will commence on 21 September 2026 for the majority of students. The Academic Calendar details specific term dates for all course levels and types.
Continuous support throughout the year
There is a wide variety of support available to students throughout their studies. The University continuously shares information about the support and opportunities available to students through communications and events. Throughout their studies, there will be key milestones and different pressure points for students.
Below you can find information about the some of the support available for common student concerns and worries, especially during the first few months studying at university.
- Exams and assessments
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During the build up to the exam and assessment periods, there are focussed communications reminding students of the academic and wellbeing support available.
The University provides an Exam Toolkit for students which signposts to the relevant resources and information. BeWell & Inclusion week is also timed to act as a reminder of the support available to students before the exam and assessment period begins.
Throughout the year, there are workshops, drop-in sessions and resources available through the Student Learning Service to assist student with their academic skills and approaches to study.
- Budgeting and finances
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Managing finances is a key part of student life. The Student Advice & Support team offer a range of services alongside clear guidance and helpful information that students can explore whenever they need it.
This includes advice on avoiding scams, money saving tips, scholarships and support for students facing financial hardship.
- Staying safe
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Aberdeen is one of the safest cities in the UK and has been awarded the prestigious Purple Flag ten times, commending the safety and security of Aberdeen's nightlife. Despite this, it is still important for students to know how to try and keep themselves and others safe, both on campus and in the city, especially at night.
The University has a free app called SafeZone that connect you to the University Campus Security team at the touch of a button. SafeZone can be used for emergencies, first aid assistance, wellbeing support and more.
- Support services
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There is lots of support available to students at the University.
Examples of some of the services include:
- University Counselling service
- Student Advice & Support team
- Student helpline (available 24 hours a day)
- Multi-Faith Chaplaincy
- Students' Union
- Careers and employability service
- Working as a student
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The Careers and Employability service offers a wide variety of support to students and graduates. They can assist students with advice on CVs and preparing for interviews, give guidance on part-time working as a student and offer opportunities such as internships for students during their studies.
- Next steps after the first year
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As students come near to the end of their first year at university, they will often be looking to move out of University accommodation.
There is a Private Accommodation guide to assist students looking to rent privately.
There will also be an opportunity for students to find a flatmate for their next year through the Unibuddy platform.