Applicant Journey Edition WE’RE HERE FOR YOU EVERY STEP OF THE WAY
YOUR OFFER HOLDER DAY CHOOSING BETWEEN YOUR UNIVERSITY OFFERS
TOP TIPS FOR MOVING AWAY FROM HOME
Admissions
+44 (0)1752 585858 applications@plymouth.ac.uk plymouth.ac.uk
University of Plymouth Drake Circus Plymouth Devon PL4 8AA United Kingdom
Follow us on social media @PlymUni
Congratulations on your offer to study at the University of Plymouth. This edition of Student Life has been created with you in mind, providing you with all the essential information you need on your applicant journey. We look forward to welcoming you in to our student community in September 2025!
Meet some of this issue’s contributors:
Charlie
BA (Hons) English and Creative Writing
From spatulas to pillows and everything in between, Charlie gives his top tips for moving out of home. P.13
BEng (Hons) Civil Engineering
Maahima gives an insight into her experience using the Careers Service at the University. P.22
Ethel BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy
Ethel shares how the Writing Cafe and University Student Hub have helped her plan assignments. P.29
Visit us at an Offer Holder Day
Attending an Offer Holder Day is a great way to get a deeper insight into your course – and to meet your future classmates.
Get ready! Discover student life
Find out what it’s really like to study here in Britain’s Ocean City. Prepare for your move to uni and get excited for your future.
HOT TOPIC
P.8 Get ready for your Offer Holder Day
Questions you should ask
FEATURES
P.10 Your accommodation
All you need to know about halls
P.16 Your finances Fees and funding explained
P.28 We Support Student Hub – looking after your wellbeing
P.30 We Explore
Our students’ favourite places in and around Plymouth
P.32 We Campaign Our sustainability goals
P.34 We Research
Addressing the multidisciplinary challenges of today
THE GUIDE
P.40 A Parents’ and Supporters’ Guide to the applicant journey
Tackling the next important steps together
Congratulations – you have an offer! Thank you for choosing to take the first step towards your university journey with us.
This is just the beginning of your student adventure, filled with new opportunities and experiences, and we’re here to help you along the way. We take pride in balancing the importance of study with a vibrant and diverse social life, ensuring student wellbeing is top priority. Our goal is to support you through every stage of your journey in an inclusive community, where you can thrive both academically and personally. At Plymouth, you’ll be able to achieve your aspirations while enjoying the full university experience. Welcome aboard, and here’s to a bright and successful future!
A conditional offer means you still need to meet the requirements – usually exam results. You can find the conditions of your offer in your applicant portal or your UCAS Hub. An unconditional offer means you’ve got a place, although there might still be a few things to arrange.
Your invitation to attend one of our Offer Holder Days is in this pack. These events are subject specific and tailored to give you the chance to explore your chosen subject in much more detail.
Once you’ve received decisions from all of your institutions/ course choices, select your firm (preferred) and insurance (reserve) choice via your UCAS Hub. You will also need to respond to any requests for further information in your offer letter.
Think about where you would like to live during your studies. We guarantee a place in halls – either University managed or from accredited private providers – to all new undergraduate students who make Plymouth their firm choice, apply by the deadline on our website, and are eligible under our terms and conditions.
This guide provides further information on student loans as well as the scholarships and bursaries available.
As well as supporting you academically, we’re also here to support your overall wellbeing with a wide range of resources to help you to get the most out of your time at university.
By living and studying in Plymouth you have the opportunity to explore the stunning beaches and countryside that Devon and Cornwall have to offer.
Follow us on social media @plymuni and keep in touch, watch our student takeovers and get excited to join us.
OFFER HOLDER DAYS
February/March 2025 – sign up for and attend your exclusive event.
APPLY FOR YOUR ACCOMMODATION
February 2025 – we’ll be in touch when the Accommodation Portal opens, and you can book your halls.
APPLY FOR STUDENT FINANCE
March 2025
Start your application for tuition fee and maintenance student loans.
REPLY TO YOUR OFFER
Early June 2025 – it’s time to make your decision. Check your personal reply deadline in your UCAS Hub to choose your firm and insurance choices.
START PLANNING YOUR BIG MOVE
June 2025 – get packing for your move to uni! If you still have questions or want to visit us, attend our June Open Day.
A LEVEL RESULTS DAY
August 2025 – check your UCAS Hub account to see the status of your application.
JOIN YOUR ONLINE COMMUNITY
August 2025 – start chatting to your future classmates and ask current students questions.
YOU DID IT! ENROL AT UNIVERSITY!
September 2025
Here are some things to consider that might help you decide if the University of Plymouth is right for you.
Events specifically for students who have received an offer from the University. A great opportunity to ask tons of questions to current students, support services and academics!
Community and support are crucial to a happy student experience. Your university family is wider than you think at Plymouth! Whether it’s mental health support, advice on careers and placements or financial aid, we’ve got your back.
We guarantee a place in our halls to all undergraduate first-year students who make Plymouth their firm first-choice institution, apply before the deadline stated on our website, and are eligible under our terms and conditions.
You’ll be living in the city for at least three years, so make sure you’ll be comfortable here and it has all of the amenities you want.
Once you’ve received all of your offers, you will need to reply through UCAS with the following three decisions:
This is your first-choice course and university.
This is your ‘back up’ choice, just in case you don’t meet the requirements.
You do not want to attend this course or university.
It’s important that you’re happy with both your firm and insurance choices, and that they are in the right order as you cannot choose between the two when you get your results.
You have 14 days after making your choices to change your mind, and you can do this through UCAS directly. After these 14 days it becomes very difficult to switch, so make sure you are happy with your choices before you submit. If you need advice or guidance relating to this, please contact our Admissions team at applications@plymouth.ac.uk.
Make sure you choose an offer from a university which meets your personal requirements, is achievable, and that your insurance choice has different conditions than your firm choice. A lot of offers will have additional conditions – i.e. Disclosure and Barring Service check, learning assessment or occupational health check – not just your grades, so make sure you review these too.
Once you have received an offer from a university, you should be invited to a specific offer holder day. You can also use this time to look up what’s most important to you –whether it’s student life, the course itself, or the location.
You must meet all the conditions of your offer by early September 2025, unless your offer includes an earlier deadline.
You will need to make your final decisions for your firm, insurance and decline choices (and make your choices official on the UCAS Hub), by 4 June 2025.
1.
Make sure you know how a university feels for you before making your firm and insurance choices. As well as getting the right course for you, also consider:
• Where do you want to study (think about urban or rural settings)?
• What other opportunities and facilities do you need?
• Will you feel at home there?
2.
Take time to do in-depth research online by checking uni websites and contacting enquiries teams to ask any questions.
3.
Trust your instincts and don’t go to a university just because it’s where your friends or family are going/have been.
CHECK OUT OUR STUDENT LIFE PODCAST ABOUT CHOOSING BETWEEN YOUR OFFERS.
Even if you visited us at one of our Open Days, the Offer Holder Day is a fantastic opportunity to visit us again and ask any last-minute questions before joining in September. Your tailored event is designed to help you make the right decision about your university and give a deeper insight into your chosen course.
FIND OUT MORE AND BOOK YOUR PLACE.
What are the contact hours for my course?
Are there any field trips?
Where did you live in your first year and how did you find your accommodation?
What have your favourite modules been?
Will I have time to take on a part-time job?
How do I access help and support at uni?
What is there to do in your spare time?
Which halls are the most popular?
Is there anything you wish you’d known before you came to the Uni?
What kind of societies can I join?
An Offer Holder Day is designed specifically for people who are making their final choices of university and weighing up their offers.
You might have already been to an Open Day at Plymouth, but an Offer Holder Day can be different in that the day is structured to give you a taste as to what it’s like to be a student for a day, which can be even better, because it’s personalised for you! You will get to see our facilities, you’re told about some of the opportunities you will get as a student, see the SU and check out lots of clubs and societies. It really is a day where Plymouth can show you what it’ll be like when you come and study here.
You get to meet so many people on these Offer Holder Days! Students on many different courses will be on hand to show you around and tell you about their university experience. You’ll meet your lecturers and students on your subject and be able to ask them about the course itself.
The Accommodation team are on hand to answer any questions about how student life is in halls, especially for those moving away for the first time. The team talk you through all the different halls available, the price guides, and show you the kind of accommodation you could be moving into in September! You’ll also get to see the Student Village, and get an idea of campus life.
“Offer Holder Days are great in so many ways, but the atmosphere on campus is by far the best bit.”
Owain, BA (Hons) History
All of our Student Hub service teams are available to meet you on Offer Holder Days, including the Disability Services team, international student support, the Careers Service, the Admissions team and library support. At this point you’ve got an offer with us, so the student support services are there to help you take the next step and be ready to start studying with us when your course starts!
A good way to take it all in is by going on a campus tour. These are led by current students from so many courses, so when you go you might be shown around by someone on your course! This is a great way for you to be able to ask them anything you’re curious about, and see all the places you might be going to regularly when you join us. Visualise yourself as a student here!
Offer Holder Days are great in so many ways, but the atmosphere on campus is by far the best bit. Student Ambassadors are excited to share what they’ve experienced as students. From the people giving campus tours, accommodation talks, the city tours and course talks, they’re all there to share their experiences to help you make the best decision for you.
We know how important finding the right accommodation is when choosing your university, especially if it’s your first time moving away from home.
Living in halls helps you to build lifelong friendships and adjust to university life in a supportive environment during your first year. We have a wide range of room types to suit all budgets.
We guarantee to offer a place in halls (either University managed or with an accredited private provider) to all new undergraduate students who make Plymouth their firm choice, apply by the deadline on our website and are eligible under our terms and conditions.
Applications for a place in halls can be made through our dedicated Accommodation Portal, which will be open for new applications around the beginning of 2025. When the portal opens, we will be in touch to invite you to make a booking.
1.
2.
3.
4.
Confirm Plymouth as your firm first choice on UCAS Hub and apply for your accommodation when the portal opens.
Made your choice? Your booking will be confirmed within 72 hours. You will not need to pay anything at this stage to secure your booking.
Make it official! In the summer you’ll be contacted to sign your licence agreement and pay your two weeks’ advance rent to finalise your booking.
After results day, we’ll contact you to tell you your room number and share the details of how and when you can move into your new home!
Indicative cost per week:
£199 – £200.50
Number of rooms:
315 – all en suite
Location:
On campus
Located at the heart of the main campus, this hall has lift access to all floors and has its own cafe nearby. It is close to the library, lecture theatres and Students’ Union while the city centre is only five minutes’ walk away.
Indicative cost per week:
£128.50
Number of rooms:
197 – all shared facilities
Location:
Student Village
Gilwell has a strong community feel with a friendly atmosphere, and offers great value for money. The hall has the city centre on its doorstep and is only few minutes’ walk away from the Students’ Union, library, campus cafes and lecture theatres.
Indicative cost per week:
£199 – £207
Number of rooms:
157 – all en suite
Location: On campus
Ideally located in the centre of the main campus, Mary Newman has lift access to all floors and is just a minute’s walk from the gym, the library and the beautiful Drake’s Place Gardens and Reservoir.
Indicative cost per week:
£188.50 – £203
Number of rooms:
237 – all en suite
Location: Student Village
Nestled in the heart of the vibrant student quarter, Pilgrim is always a popular choice. Situated just a short walk from the campus, city centre and trendy cafes, it’s ideal for those looking to enjoy a sociable atmosphere.
Indicative cost per week:
£188.50 – £203
Number of rooms:
408 – all en suite
Location:
Student Village
Radnor is another popular hall choice for our students. Radnor’s blocks are situated around a spacious outside courtyard which acts as a great central hub for outside events and socialising with friends and neighbours.
Indicative cost per week:
£128.50 – £171.50
Number of rooms:
430 – offers both en suite and shared facilities
Location:
Student Village Robbins is our largest hall, offering both shared facilities and en suite options to suit a range of budgets. This lively hall is just a short walk away from the University campus and city centre.
Find out more about our Universitymanaged halls.
The Accommodation team is here to support you throughout your application journey and during your time living in University-managed halls.
You never quite realise how invaluable a frying pan is until you leave home. Or bowls. Or spoons. I can’t quite tell you how many pieces of cutlery I’ve lost over the years. For some reason, cutlery at university takes on the role of socks in the dryer: they just…disappear!
Leaving the comfort of your home where meals are cooked for you each night, everything is readily available, and there are no arguments over who used your barbecue sauce can be quite a daunting task. You might realise you don’t know what utensils you use at home, and what you don’t. I guarantee there will be a shopping trip for supplies where you’ll ask questions such as: “Do I need an air-fryer?”, “How many spatulas will I use?” (probably at least six), and “Do I sleep on two pillows... or nine?”
Start by making a list of everything you might need.
The best bet here is to ask your parents or older siblings as they most likely will have gone to uni before, or at least have definitely moved out of home. Kitchen supplies are the most useful, but don’t forget things like towels and toiletries for the bathroom.
Each day, make a note of the items you use around your home.
This will give you an idea of the essentials you’ll want to use at uni. Remember, things like toilet paper, shampoo, soap and conditioner can all be bought when you’ve moved in, so they don’t need to be taken with you. The same goes for food and snacks.
The next step is whittling down your wardrobes and cupboards to clothes you actually wear. Start by picking up the things you might wear and create a pile of things you definitely don’t.
“I
wanted to live on campus to be close to everything. There’s loads of storage, a desk and a pinboard, which I used to put photos up. The Accommodation team ran loads of socials and competitions all year too. I honestly loved living in halls, and I don’t think I know anyone who wouldn’t say the same.”
Kathryn, BSc (Hons) Events Management graduate
Packing for uni is a great way to declutter as you soon realise how many items you don’t use any more. If you have too many things, then start to be a bit more brutal. When was the last time you actually used each item or wore that item of clothing? The chances are, there are a few things you’ll take with you thinking you’ll use but never will, but this gets easier the more you move.
If I were you, I would pack everything that you can fit in the car.
Say you get to uni and there’s a variety of things you don’t need, you can always give them to a charity shop, lend them out to friends, or store them away to be taken home.
Make sure you have the necessities for your room. Bring what you know you need for your room, and when you get here you can see what it’s like and find out what you can share with flatmates. Plus, you can always take a trip into the city centre to get the essentials when you’re here.
Connect with other students
We’ll recommend the groups that’ll help you find like-minded people, based on your course and interests.
Personalise your experience
Customise your username and groups – if you’ve made a connection, why not start your own group chat?
You don’t have to wait for September to start making lifelong friendships. Use your exclusive welcome community to meet other applicants on your course, connect with people who share similar interests, and get to know each other in over 100 personal group chats.
Some of the groups you can join include:
• Societies
• Managing Your Money
• Life Around Campus
• Accommodation Advice
• LGBTQ+ Students
• Living at Home
• Support Services
• Welcome Week
the
info Keep up to date with announcements in our groups for accommodation, results day and life on campus.
Our friendly student reps are ready to answer your questions about the University, your course, student life, and anything else you want to know. They’ll be on hand in all Community groups, and you can also ask them questions directly in the group: Ask Us Anything!
BEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering
“Hi, I’m Mya! I’m excited to chat about all things science and engineering, and share the adventures and quirks of being an international student. Feel free to ask me anything!”
LLB (Hons) Law
“Hey there, I’m Ed, I am a third year Law student at the University of Plymouth. From my degree to student life, I cannot recommend the Uni enough, I have loved every moment so far! I look forward to answering your questions.”
BSc (Hons) Psychology with Human Biology
“I am Ishita, I’m currently studying at the University of Plymouth and living my dream life! I really enjoy my independence and freedom here, and I can’t wait to tell you all about it.”
Our undergraduate fee for 2025–26 entry is £9,250 per annum for home students. You can either pay your fees by applying to the Student Loans Company, subject to its approval, or pay the fees yourself. You won’t repay a penny of the student loan until you’re earning over £25,000 a year if you are a new borrower starting a course from September 2025. Repayments vary according to personal circumstances and the payment plan you are on, so for further information please visit the government website below.
We offer a range of scholarships and bursaries to help you fund your studies. Visit our website below for more details.
If you’re studying full time, you’re eligible to apply for a living cost loan. This will help fund your everyday spending for things like food, travel and accommodation costs. Contact our Student Services for more advice or visit our webpage below.
WHAT KIND OF LOANS AM I ELIGIBLE FOR AND HOW MUCH CAN I GET?
If you’re eligible for student finance, the tuition fee loan covers your course fees and is paid to your university. You can also apply for a maintenance loan, which you’ll get at the start of each semester. These are awarded on a sliding scale, which means that the lower your household income, the more support you get and vice versa. It’s up to you how you spend it, but most students will use it for rent, food, and day-to-day life.
HOW DO I APPLY FOR A STUDENT LOAN?
You can apply online via the Student Finance website on gov. uk, or alternatively you can apply by post. Whichever route you take, be aware that you may need to send evidence in the post, for example your passport or birth certificate.
WHAT DO I NEED WHEN APPLYING?
You will need:
• A bank account in your name. Your loan will be paid directly into your account in your name, so make sure you have one set up and keep a note of your details. It’s a good time to start looking at opening your student bank account.
• A personal email address. If you apply online this is an essential, and you will be sent important updates via email throughout the process.
• An up-to-date passport. If you don’t have one, you will need to send alternative documents to Student Finance, such as a birth certificate or an expired passport.
• If relevant, information about your parents or guardians’ income, which includes National Insurance numbers and savings, pensions etc.
The form has lots of questions, so make sure you set aside a couple of hours to complete it. From there, Student Finance advise that it can take at least six weeks to respond to your application. While you wait, it’s a good idea to start planning a budget for your first year at uni so you’re fully prepared.
Apply as early as you can to give you plenty of time before your course starts to get sorted. Also, keep in mind that you will need to reapply for student finance each year, so not just when you start uni. Finally, make sure you double check everything before you submit. Good luck!
Did you know that the cost of living in Plymouth is about 48% lower than London?* We’re also one of the cheapest cities for student accommodation with prices starting from £128.50.** You can still live your best student life and make the most of your money. Find out how our current students plan their budgeting...
“One of the best things that I got into the rhythm of doing was simply planning my expenditures when my loan came through. It takes about half an hour (if that) and is absolutely invaluable in the long run. Firstly, work out how much you have left from your loan after your rent is taken out. After that, work out how many more weeks it is until your next loan comes through. Divide the money you have left over by the weeks you have left and adjust for any extra spending for things like gym contracts, as well as any extra income from work. By the end of it, you have an exact amount of how much money you can spend each week and even each day.”
Charlie, BA (Hons) English and Creative Writing student
“You can download the UniDays app for free and get lots of good discounts –you just have to show the app in store. Many shops offer a 20% discount for short periods of time, so make sure you download it! Loyalty cards are also good to get and are normally free. Also, just ask at any shop if they offer a student discount, because in some shops you only need your student ID to get money off.”
Nina, BA (Hons) Fine Art and Art History student
“Reassess what you consider essential. Do you need to buy the top-brand food or can you settle for the shop’s own brand? Making small changes all around adds up significantly, so try this for a few weeks and see where it gets you. University is all about getting an education and having fun, so try and keep a little bit aside from your monthly budget for those unexpected nights out or to buy the latest video game, so you don’t feel overwhelmed.”
Gaurav, Bachelor of Dental Surgery student
“I calculated my monthly expenses and how much on average I would spend a month, to figure out my monthly outgoings and how much money to leave myself with as my monthly budget. Overall, budgeting will be different for everyone depending on income and lifestyles. However, definitely ensure you are putting money aside for rainy days but also don’t forget to treat yourself as you only live once!”
Shaina, BA (Hons) International Business student
* Source: livingcost.org
**Student Crowd 2024, statistics accurate for the 2024/25 academic year and may be subject to change
As the student loan is paid in three instalments, it is up to you to budget this so you don’t get caught out! Our current students have suggested the following budgeting tips.
1. DON’T SPLASH OUT TOO MUCH ON ACADEMIC BOOKS in the first year – look out for second-year students selling their old books.
2. USE A BUDGETING APP if you struggle to keep tabs on how much you’re spending.
3. A PART-TIME JOB can be a great experience if you can manage your time well while you’re studying.
4. TRY NOT TO EAT OUT TOO OFTEN but when you do, use vouchers and discount codes if you can.
5. DOWNLOAD THE UNIDAYS APP AND BUY A 16–25 RAILCARD as this will save you lots of money when travelling and shopping.
6. DON’T KNOCK SUPERMARKET BASICS until you’ve tried them. Rather than buying branded foods, go for cheaper alternatives.
7. HAVE A SEPARATE ACCOUNT to your student loan and rent so you can see what you are spending your money on, and what is coming in and going out.
Find out how students Christian and Georgia manage their money in our Student Life podcast:
The Careers Service offers you support to secure part-time work, work experience, graduate positions, preparing for interviews and looking for employment. They can guide you through creating or updating your CV, and you can arrange unlimited face-to-face or virtual appointments.
There are a wide range of careers and recruitment events, and workshops designed to help you to interact with employers. These include employer drop-ins, insight panels for students exploring
placement, graduate and parttime work opportunities, as well as workshops on interview success, tips for job searching and more.
Undertaking placements or gaining work experience while at university greatly improves your chances of achieving your ideal graduate role. There are a number of opportunities through our micro-internships programme, and careers education activities are embedded as part of your course. Our careers consultants work in partnership with your
lecturers to deliver tailored career development activities within your course, such as talks, workshops and competitions, helping you to bring your future into focus as you study.
As a student, and for as long as you need it after you graduate, you have access to myCareer, our innovative online support system which helps you develop your skills for your career. This gives you the chance to find part-time, placement and graduate vacancies and book onto workshops, webinars and career fairs.
The myCareer webpage has a host of activities, tools and videos to help you build your employability skills:
• get CV feedback using CV360
• understand the interview process, take mock interviews and get advice from employer videos using our interview simulator
• use our psychometric and aptitude tests to practise some of the most commonly used assessments, improving your chance of performing.
Through this programme, students are matched with industry professional mentors who give their time and knowledge to provide you with unique insights into your desired career. You will learn about networking opportunities, increase your skills and undertake mock interviews, giving you a competitive advantage in the job market. The six-month programme is designed to fit around your studies, and any undergraduate student can apply.
“The mentoring programme has been invaluable for me, and my mentor Steph was a perfect match. In March, Steph took me to Oceanology International and introduced me to people in the industry. This helped with my confidence and networking skills, and without the mentoring programme I wouldn’t have had this amazing opportunity!”
Eloise, BSc (Hons) Marine Science grduate
“I could not recommend the mentoring schemes and networking opportunities enough. They have given me the confidence to step out of my comfort zone and understand the value I could add to a business – in addition to really enjoying myself in the process.”
Katherine, BSc (Hons) Business Management student
”In my second year, I signed up for the mentoring scheme offered through the Uni and I can’t recommend the scheme enough! I was matched with a mentor who had studied the same degree as me and she had a great knowledge of the competitive industry I’d like to go into. She helped me refine my goals and improve my employability which is vital for me. My assigned mentor was amazingly helpful, patient, and friendly, which made for a great experience. Plus, she suggested a part-time job role to apply for to help build my transferable skills. I got that role, and now I have so much more confidence in my own abilities. I highly recommend signing up for the mentoring scheme, it’s been an invaluable and unforgettable experience for me!”
Kenzie, BSc (Hons) Business Management graduate
Hi, I’m Maahima and I study BEng (Hons) Civil Engineering. As I reflect on my transition from university to work, I’ve come to realise it’s crucial to understand that our pursuit of knowledge at university is often driven not only by curiosity, but also by the desire to make a meaningful impact on society.
When considering which universities to apply to, we often look at rankings and reputations, but there’s an important aspect that I think is often overlooked: accreditation.
The University stands out to me because many of its degrees are accredited by professional bodies that ‘long-established’ universities may not have. For example, the Architecture degree is accredited by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), the Accounting and Finance degree by the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), and the Biomedical Science degree by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS). These accreditations show that the University’s degrees meet rigorous industry standards.
I personally did not realise the weight of an accredited degree until I started looking for potential work in my field and was lucky enough to have my civil engineering degree accredited by the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE).
Determined to take advantage of as many of the University’s careerenhancing support services as possible, I signed up for a whole array of amazing opportunities. There was an optional work placement, course modules covering essential topics like
“I signed up for a whole array of amazing opportunities. There were assessment workshops, one-to-one appointments with a career counsellor, plus a CV skills workshop.”
interviews, assessment workshops, one-to-one appointments with a career counsellor, plus a CV skills workshop where I learned the important art of tailoring my CV to match specific job roles.
I also successfully applied to one of the University’s micro-internships, which was pivotal for me in opening the door to the working world of civil engineering. The experience allowed me to shadow a materials team, structural teams, and geotechnical teams involved in delivering a multimillion-dollar infrastructure scheme.
Among the other great opportunities offered by the University are a range of excellent networking events such as project showcases to industry professionals, career fairs to engage with organisations who were actively recruiting, and finally
events to network with alumni. All of which allowed me to gain invaluable insights into specific industries.
To further enhance my journey, I enrolled in the University’s mentorship programmes, which paired me with industry professionals. These sessions allowed me to explore my personal interests and receive guidance tailored to the requirements sought by companies in the energy and highway engineering fields.
I’m sure that all my experience while studying, as well as my accredited degree helped me land my placement opportunity in a Fortune 500 company. The placement was supported by a designated tutor and placement team who checked in on me, collected my progress reports and offered useful advice which aided me to perform my best. Through the placement, I truly understood the day-to-day realities of my chosen profession and it gave me an understanding of where my degree would take me.
In addition to applying my knowledge in practice, enhancing my skills and getting industry exposure, I came out of my placement with immense personal growth and confirmation that this degree was the right choice for me.
As an organisation that is led by you, the students, we work hard to ensure that you have the opportunities available to feel empowered and to make your voice heard. We support more than 600 elected part-time Student Representatives who listen to and collate your feedback to share with University staff, to shape and improve your academic experience.
Every year our independent Advice Centre saves students hundreds of thousands of pounds by helping them to submit claims, access appropriate benefits and navigate through their student finance applications.
Furthermore, if you’re looking to earn while you learn, we employ over 150 members of student staff in a variety of roles, from running our award-winning bar, to preparing coffee in our cafe serving customers in our shop or providing technical assistance at our events.
There may be times during your studies when you need help; maybe things haven’t gone to plan, or you just need that extra bit of support or guidance. This is perfectly natural, and we are on hand when you need us. As a member of your SU, you have free access to our confidential Advice Centre and our team of dedicated advisers.
There are many different opportunities available. Perhaps you’d like to contribute to running a charity shop, get stuck in with helping wildlife conservation, or assist in coaching football sessions? Perhaps your heart lies in fundraising for local, national and global causes? Plymouth Raise and Give (RAG) is a student-led group running fundraising projects for chosen charities which are selected each year. The group also offers yearly fundraising adventures, which could see you climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, taking on the Three Peaks Challenge or trekking Machu Picchu for charity.
Here at UPSU we support over 45 different sports clubs. These clubs offer you an opportunity to join a community where you’re guaranteed to have something in common, with a chance to play sport in a social and/or competitive environment.
With our campus situated a short walk from Plymouth Sound on the beautiful south coast of Devon, you’ll have access to a wide range of water-based activities, allowing you to truly make the most of ‘Britain’s Ocean City’.
A HUGE event in the University’s calendar, Varsity involves thousands of students from the University of Plymouth and our rivals, Plymouth Marjon University. Each year, these two universities battle it out in lots of sports from different university sports clubs: a whopping 21 matches in 2024! It’s one of the biggest events in the University’s calendar (even if you’re only a spectator cheering on our team!), raising a large amount for charity. Our University was crowned champions of Varsity 2024.
Our 120+ student-led societies are a major part of what we are about. From Chemistry to K-Pop, Minecraft to Midwifery – whatever your interests. If you have a particular passion or interest, or you want to try something new, there will be a community for you... but if there’s not, then you can always start your own!
If you’re not sure what you’re interested in, or you’re looking for a way of getting involved without the initial commitment of joining, why not Give it a Go? The Give it a Go programme offers a range of different sessions throughout the year – run by clubs, volunteers, qualified sports instructors and society groups – where you can come along and do just that, give it a go: try something new, meet new people and learn new skills.
Our dedicated group of student representatives is the voice of the student body across the University and Students’ Union. If you’re passionate about listening to students and campaigning for change, then take a look at the range of student representative roles available, including Course Reps, School Reps, Faculty Reps, Part-time Officers and Sabbatical Officers.
We have a number of societies designed to help the wider community. One of these is the Student Action for Refugees society, who recently held a tote painting fundraiser to raise money for local refugee charities – a great way for people to have fun while raising money for an important cause. The society is really looking forward to holding similar events in the future. If you have a passion for helping others, and perhaps even have ideas for a fundraising event, this could be the society for you.
Visit the UPSU website for a full list of clubs and societies.
University is an exciting step, but what will it really be like? We sat down with Psychology student Emily to chat about her first year with us here.
It was a natural and easy process for me. Initially, balancing social life and uni was difficult, but I adapted over time. I thought going from A levels to university would be hard due to the workload, but it wasn’t since I’d studied my subject at A level. The real challenge was managing deadlines without reminders or pressure from others. It’s important to stay organised and ask for help when needed.
I lived in Francis Drake on campus and found it to have only pros. It’s very sociable, with friends nearby, making it easy to meet up for social or study sessions and walk to lectures together. I was able to leave ten minutes before a lecture and still arrive early, as my lecture theatre was so close. I had friends who lived in Radnor and Robbins halls, which are about a three-minute walk from campus, and found it just as convenient.
Before starting university, I was really worried that I had forgotten how to make friends, but as soon as you get there you realise there are so many different ways to make friends, and everyone is in the same boat. I met one of my best friends literally in the queue to get my ID card. I have friends who I met in clubs, lectures, group chats, through flatmates/other friends and through societies.
Curious about what a typical day at university looks like? Elena walks you through her day from start to finish.
“My main advice would be to keep all doors open, don’t write anything off, and say yes and smile – it will get you far. I know everyone says it, but join societies even if it’s just for nights out! You meet so many people and have so much fun. Good luck!”
MORNING
09.30 – 10.00 Travel to university for my first lecture
10.00 – 12.00 Lecture, learning the theory behind engineering concepts in the lecture theatre
12.00 – 13.00 Lunch time, I’m staying on campus and catching up with friends
AFTERNOON/EVENING
13.00 – 15.00 Lab work, hands-on learning doing experiments and research in the STEAM room
15.00 – 17.00 Spend some time in the study spaces working on coursework and practice questions
17.00 – 17.30 Head back home
17.30 – 19.00 Time to relax and unwind
19.00 – 22.00 Meet with friends for an evening of fun and socialising
Heading off to uni is exciting, right? For some it’s a time to discover who you are and build your network and community, for others it’s an opportunity to start living independently. Our Student Hub is here to help you navigate through this exciting, and sometimes daunting, time with a friendly smile and some wellbeing and practical support.
Find advice and guidance on disability and long-term health conditions, including help with study requirements and the Disabled Students’ Allowance.
We work with you to develop skills for learning, promote critical and creative thinking, and enable you to achieve your potential.
Discover a safe and calm space on campus to connect with people. Explore your faith and belief journey or just meet new friends. Feel welcomed, heard and supported with our Time to Talk drop-in service.
STUDENT WELLBEING SERVICES
Receive support with your wellbeing and mental health if needed. Being a student can be stressful at times and it’s totally normal to feel like you need a helping hand. Our Wellbeing Services can support your academic progress by guiding you to the most appropriate service for your needs. We can help with common concerns such as homesickness, anxiety, depression and relationships, and we can signpost you to other organisations, self-help information, workshops, drop-in appointments, specialist liaison with NHS services and counselling.
Our Student Hub team are here to offer support and guidance to all of our students, regardless of background, faith, beliefs, sexuality or gender, throughout their time at University.
STUDENT FINANCIAL SUPPORT
Providing information on all aspects of student funding, from loans to financial support.
Take advantage of opportunities for enhanced learning in sessions led by students.
Student Hub
Find out more about the services and support we provide to our students and where to go if you need help or advice.
“As an international student, writing assignments can be challenging for me, so the Writing Cafe was such a great help! The welcoming space enabled me to speak to trained student writing mentors who helped me explore techniques and strategies to improve as a writer. The incredible mentors gave me muchneeded guidance, and helped me improve my writing and build my confidence. Particularly helpful for international students – the service contributed to my wellbeing and helped me to feel a sense of belonging not just to the University but also to the community.”
Ethel, current student
As well as the amazing fun things to get involved in when you first arrive at university there will also be some ‘life admin’ to think about. Thankfully there’s plenty that you can do before you arrive to make your transition smoother and leave more time for the fun stuff.
• Learn basic recipes and create weekly meal plans, so you don’t overspend or buy too many takeaways! Write a weekly shopping list so you know what your essentials are.
• Do a budget plan (income versus outgoings), so that you know how much to save or spend.
• If you want a part-time job when you’re here, start researching.
“When I started uni, at times I found myself feeling lonely and needing to talk to someone. Student Services was the best place for me to go. The staff working there are so friendly, and helped me with so many things. If you are unsure of anything, no matter what it is, Student Services will try their best to help!”
Floss, current student
“It’s really important to me that all of our students have a welcoming place where they feel comfortable to talk to us if they need any nonacademic support while they are here studying. We are a small and friendly team who are passionate about being a part of the student journey. We love getting to know students who come to the Hub to access support. You‘ll find us in the Student Hub, in the Charles SealeHayne Library. Feel free to pop in and say hello! Even if you don’t need us just yet, know that we are here should things ever change.”
Heather Shepherd, Student Services Hub Manager
• Make sure your accommodation is all sorted, and you know what is provided. Check what you need to buy before arrival.
• Check out the UPSU website for events, clubs or societies you might like to join.
• Research local GP surgeries so you can register when you arrive.
support:
• We recommend declaring any disabilities you have on your UCAS application, so we can provide advice and guidance before you arrive.
• If you didn’t declare your disability on your UCAS application, don’t worry but do tell us as soon as you can, so that we can get the right provisions in place to support you throughout your studies.
• If you book University-managed halls of residence, please ensure that you disclose any disability/ medical condition and any specific accommodation requirements you may have on the booking form.
• Apply for the Disabled Students Allowance.
Hear from our students about their favourite places to spend their time in and around Plymouth.
“Mount Edgcumbe directly overlooks Plymouth Sound and provides some lovely views on a sunny summer’s day. The easiest way to get to Mount Edgcumbe would be to get the number 34 Citybus to the Cremyll Ferry and take that across to Mount Edgcumbe. The ferry is very affordable and adds to the whole experience as a mini boat trip!”
Jack, BSc (Hons) Chemistry student
“Plymouth’s blend of modern amenities and historical charm is fascinating. From the stunning waterfront views to the cobblestone streets of the Barbican, the city has a unique character that I’ve quickly grown to love.”
Uthsara,
BSc
(Hons)
Navigation and Maritime Science graduate
DARTMOOR NATIONAL PARK IS ONLY A 30-MINUTE DRIVE FROM THE UNIVERSITY
“Despite being an urban city, Plymouth is surrounded by English countryside. There are so many beaches just a short drive away, and plenty of buses which will take you there. My favourite is Bovisand beach, you can get there easily by catching a ferry from the Barbican. Dartmoor is also very close by, providing plenty of opportunities for a hike in the summer.”
Lily, BSc (Hons) Zoology student
From the city that’s alive with the spirit of discovery to the breathtaking landscapes of the coastline and countryside, the South West is a region that lives up to its reputation as a place to live the lifestyle you want. Find out more:
“Plymouth is so beautiful, it’s very difficult to choose one favourite place, as most places I absolutely love! The top locations in Plymouth for me are the seafront, Sutton Harbour and Devil’s Point because being by the sea is actually the best thing ever! I love going to watch the sunrise by the sea as it’s just so tranquil and such a great start to the day!”
Christina, BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science student
“The majority of Plymouth’s student accommodation, halls and houses are within a 15-minute walk of the University, which is one of the most convenient things for me. This means that it’s so easy to get to university, to see your friends at their places or to get into the city centre too.”
Lily,
BA
(Hons) Product and Furniture Design student
“Plymouth city centre is only a few minutes’ walk away from the University and it has all the shops that you are likely to need. If you are into water sports or generally love being around the ocean, then Plymouth is the place for this as you can enjoy a summer day at the seafront and swim at many of the beautiful beaches nearby.”
Brigitte, BA (Hons)
Social Work student
WHEN IT
WE KNOW THAT EVERY CONTRIBUTION MAKES A DIFFERENCE.
We’re proud to have won awards for our eco-initiatives and have established ourselves as a leading university for sustainability.
In 2023, we became the second carbon neutral university in the UK verified to PAS 2060 standard, a mark we have retained in 2024. And the work doesn’t stop there, which is why we’ve committed to reducing our main grid electricity use by at least 20%, and main gas by 25%, by 2030.
Our two new buildings on campus – the Babbage Building and InterCity Place – have been constructed with state-of-the-art low energy technologies, and we are installing energy efficient and renewable technologies to power and heat our campuses.
To have a sustainable campus.
To discover solutions to the world’s most pressing sustainability challenges.
To motivate the next generation of students to tackle the sustainability challenges they’ll find in their workplace.
Discover our sustainability credentials:
Small things we’re doing to make a big difference:
F We are progressing work to achieve Fairtrade accreditation.
F We offer discounts on takeaway hot drinks at our cafes when using a reusable cup.
F We have 25 water refill points across our campuses to encourage the use of reusable water bottles.
F We’ve reduced CO2 emissions by 81% since 1990, and reduced gas use by 44% since 2005.
F Our Students’ Union runs frequent beach clean volunteering trips.
F Our students get involved in biodiversity initiatives on campus, which include an annual biodiversity photography competition.
F We recycled 47% of our waste in 2022–23, and re-used 7.3 tonnes of office related materials through Warp It.
F We have received the highest Three Star rating from the Sustainable Restaurant Association acknowledging our work to source local produce to serve in the cafes across campus.
F 87% of our students travel sustainably to campus either by walking, cycling or public transport.
2024 marks the 20th anniversary of the first ever research into marine microplastics, which was led by our Professor of Marine Biology, Richard Thompson. Two decades on, we continue to set the international agenda on research into the causes and effects of marine litter.
Plymouth has produced more scientific publications on the subject of marine plastic than any other university worldwide. We are also directly providing robust evidence that is being used to develop the United Nations Global Plastics Treaty.
“The work we have done at the University has had a really major role in raising awareness of this topic. There are a number of independent accounts that cite the early work we did...which was a tipping point in the level of interest in the whole topic in the academic community and wider public.”
Professor Richard Thompson OBE FRS
Our research is committed to addressing the multidisciplinary challenges of today and tomorrow, and informs an educational experience that emphasises practical, real-world, hands-on learning. Our students are taught by research-active staff. So, what does that mean for you as a student, and does it really matter? The answer is yes! Here are just six reasons why…
1. Active researchers are leaders in their subject. Being taught by active researchers means that you will be given privileged access to the very latest practice and knowledge, and benefit from the latest developments in your chosen field.
2. Cutting-edge research can take years to be published, but transfers to the classroom almost right away! Being taught by active researchers can often mean that you will be taught and experience things that have not even made it into the textbooks yet.
3 As a student taught by research-active lecturers, you’ll benefit from their industry contacts. Some of these will be delivering guest lectures and getting involved in your studies which contributes to your technical skills and abilities, and work readiness.
4. You’ll be given great opportunities to be directly involved in University research. This improves your learning experience, giving you handson opportunities to be involved in some of the most cuttingedge research taking place in the world. Apart from giving
you some fantastic content to add to your profile, it will also help you to develop your own research and analytical skills, which are fundamental to success in any career.
5. Our researchers thrive on the challenge to discover the unknown and push the boundaries of knowledge. Being involved in research helps ensure that your lecturers are passionate about their subjects. They are also well connected to their industry, nationally and globally.
testing the theory you’ve learnt in the classroom, supported by active researchers.
6. Our researchers use worldclass facilities. Students have access to specialist equipment, stateof-the-art laboratories and clinical settings. These highly sophisticated facilities allow you to learn from real-life experience, pushing the boundaries of knowledge and
FIND OUT MORE about our internationallyrenowned research and expertise at the University:
The first year of university is the year where you learn the most, not necessarily in terms of content of your degree, but in terms of life skills and living alone. These tips are designed to help first-year students make the most of their time as a fresher.
Kate BSc (Hons) Marine Biology student Amy BSc (Hons) Nursing student
Kiara Student Information Assistant
1. Get to know the Student Hub
“The University offers a huge range of different services that are available to you as a student. You can call, email or drop in to the Student Hub in the library, who can either help you with your query or signpost you to the people who are best suited to helping you. From experience, the Student Hub is invaluable!”
– Kate
2. Embrace the firsts
“Whether you have moved away from home to come to university or have not experienced university life before, you will experience a lot of firsts. First day of lectures, first day of placement (if applicable to your degree), first study group, first Freshers’ Fair. Firsts can be scary, but one thing I didn’t do enough as a first-year student was embracing ‘the firsts’. You won’t be the only first-year student when you start, and you can bond with others over experiencing things for the first time.”
– Amy
3. Maintain a work-life balance
“You are here to get a degree, but that doesn’t mean you’re not here to enjoy yourself. Maintaining a work-life balance is indeed a skill that a lot of students struggle with, but learning this early on can enhance not only your university life, but your career journey too. Schedule your breaks, explore classes on offer, join clubs or dedicate time in your diary for other things you enjoy such as books, exercise or meditation.”
– Kiara
4. Plan ahead
“Your time at university is limited, so planning is a must! Use your holidays and time off to complete work experience or take on different projects alongside your studies to make yourself stand out from others.”
– Kiara
5. Study with friends
“With the right group, studying with friends really helps you to stay motivated and focused, even if you are studying different subjects. My housemates and I often study in the library together, where we study quietly together and then chat and relax together in the breaks. If you are studying the same course, it can be really useful to study together when you are revising for exams.”
– Kate
6. Speak to your personal tutor
“When you start at the University, you’ll be allocated a personal tutor who will check in with you throughout the year and help if you have any questions or concerns. I’d highly recommend checking in with them regularly in your first year, especially if you’re not sure about something or need some guidance. I wish I had communicated with my personal tutor more than I did, as I think it would have alleviated some of the worries I had around placement deadlines.”
– Amy
7. Gain work experience
“It is continuously repeated during your time at university that experience is extremely desirable to employers. Whether it’s a part-time job, related or unrelated to your degree, experience within a working environment is beneficial to gain soft skills that can be transferred across all industries. Explore opportunities on the jobs board on myCareer and take advantage of the 1:1 support that is available in an information and advice session.”
– Kiara
8. Make the most of what Plymouth has to offer
“We are so lucky in Plymouth to have so much to do in the city and nearby, including Cornwall and Dartmoor. There are loads of opportunities to give new activities a go with no pressure; I climb regularly at the Climbing Hangar in Plymouth and have a tradition with some of my course mates to go surfing in Cornwall after coursework submissions!”
– Kate
9. Enjoy every moment
“Your time as a student will fly by! Before you know it, you’ll be a thirdyear student preparing to go out into the world with your degree. You’ll emerge from this experience with new friends (for life in some cases), a new perspective on life, and a wealth of knowledge and experience behind you. So please, enjoy every moment.”
– Amy
10. Budget, budget, budget
“It can be really easy to spend and spend, which is why it is so important to track what you’re spending and where. Prioritise necessities such as food shopping and make time to go over your finances monthly to see what you’re spending the most money on and where you might need to cut back.”
– Kate
We are well connected by road and rail to the rest of the country, so it’s easy to get here to start your journey of a lifetime.
By rail
Plymouth railway station is just a few minutes’ walk from the campus. The regular train service from London Paddington to Plymouth takes around three to four hours. Other direct train services head to Plymouth from across the South West, South Wales, the Midlands, the North of England and Scotland.
By coach
Plymouth coach station in the city centre is about ten minutes’ walk from the campus. The station offers regular daily coach services from major cities to Plymouth. A typical coach journey from London Victoria to Plymouth takes around six to seven hours.
By car
Plymouth is easily reached by following the M5 motorway and then continuing on the A38 Expressway at Exeter. It takes about four and a half hours from London to Plymouth. Sat nav ref: PL4 8AA.
“Plymouth
had to have something very special to get me to move from Liverpool to study here. Plymouth’s location has the perfect mix of city life and easy access to wildlife and nature.”
Rosa, BA
(Hons) Social Work
We want to reassure you that your family member can expect a quality education with a fantastic experience, and at Plymouth we are here to support their applicant journey every step of the way so they can secure the future they richly deserve.
We understand that preparing for university and the next phase of their lives may feel overwhelming at times. The transition from school or college to university can be a big jump, but there are lots of tools to help your family member along the way.
There is a University of Plymouth app for keeping on top of emails and timetables, study skills sessions are integrated into the first semester, and the PALS (Peer
Assisted Learning Scheme), where new students can get help from current students.
University helps to develop so many transferable skills, including:
• Time management – your family member is provided with a lot of free time around lectures, and they have to organise how they use this time best to complete their research and coursework.
• Independent learning – many employers are seeking to recruit adaptable, self-motivated learners. This doesn’t mean your family member is alone; regular office hours for course-related drop-ins are built into many courses so that students can get one-to-one feedback and assistance from lecturers and personal tutors.
• Confidence – your family member is taught a huge amount on their course. Modules and assessments
are designed to provide indepth feedback and ensure that students are encouraged to present their ideas with confidence and pride.
Going to university can seem a little overwhelming, but there are plenty of ways for both students and their supporters to get involved:
• Attend events such as Open Days and Offer Holder Days. These are a great opportunity to talk with university representatives and explore the campus.
• Ask questions! Try to get an understanding of what your family member will be studying, especially if it’s something you’re not familiar with.
• Encourage your family member to get involved in events and societies.
• Be prepared to be on standby to advise when your family member applies for student finance. For more information on the process, see P.16
Completing an undergraduate degree is a big decision to make, and a life-changing experience.
Graduate benefits include improved career prospects, increased earning potential, improvement of key life skills, higher levels of independence and making new friends for life.
Over 95% of University of Plymouth graduates are working, or due to start employment or further study, 15 months after graduation.*
THEIR INDEPENDENCE AND ENHANCE THEIR SELF-CONFIDENCE
University graduates could earn on average £11,500 more a year than non-graduates; on top of that, they have a 18% greater likelihood of being employed.†
To meet new people and find new interests
OUTCOMES 15 MONTHS AFTER GRADUATION‡
“You quickly become adjusted to university life, and the only real difference I would say in terms of education when compared to school, is that you are a lot more independent.”
Nina, BA (Hons) Fine Art and Art History student
Allows students access to WORLD-CLASS FACILITIES and RESEARCH
Here are some of the phrases you’re likely to come across while researching universities and courses: Campus university – a university with all of the facilities and teaching spaces in one place, rather than spread across the city.
Alumni – students who have graduated with a degree; our graduates are University of Plymouth alumni.
BA (Bachelor of Arts) – an undergraduate degree awarded for a course in an arts-related subject.
BSc (Bachelor of Science) – an undergraduate degree awarded for a course in a science-related subject.
BEng (Bachelor of Engineering) – an undergraduate degree awarded in an engineering-related subject.
Fresher – an informal name for a first-year student.
Seminar – a discussion that takes place in a classroom setting in small groups.
Faculty – a community of students, academics and other staff members who are grouped together for teaching, research and administrative purposes.
School – each faculty is made up of schools which house a diverse range of courses.
Semester – a university teaching term.
University life is unpredictable, we know that no two experiences will ever be the same. At the University of Plymouth, we understand the challenges students face. For a parent or supporter of a student, knowing the ebb and flow of the year should help you understand what might be happening at university and how you can best prepare to support them. Here is some advice for your family member.
AUGUST
• Get organised for the move. Start packing belongings and buying the essentials for university life.
• Remind yourself of domestic skills such as cooking, cleaning, shopping and laundry.
• Talk through any worries you may have with friends and family.
• We encourage you to speak to your GP to ensure any prescriptions can remain up to date, and be prepared to register at the University Medical Centre for GP services when you arrive on campus.
SEPTEMBER
• Bring some home comforts – photos, posters, favourite snacks.
• Get to know your fellow students by socialising with flatmates, getting involved with clubs and societies and checking out Freshers’ Week events.
• Remember that homesickness is very common.
• Consider starting a focused budget for your first two weeks, the money you spend during Freshers’ Week can quickly add up.
SEMESTER 1: SEPTEMBER TO JANUARY
• Keep to-do lists of all your deadlines.
• Seek feedback about your academic work and learn from it. It takes time to adjust to higher education as it’s quite different to school, and there’s
• Consider how and how often you’ll keep in touch with friends and family, and how this might change throughout the year.
much more expectation of independent study (i.e. working at home, researching and reading).
• Speak up about any worries and access the support services found in the Student Hub if you need them.
• Take advantage of the SU’s sports and gym facilities.
• Agree any rent budgets and expectations early on to help choose suitable accommodation for the next year.
• If you are unable to meet a deadline due to extenuating circumstances, your faculty support office or personal tutor can help.
• Remember to relax over the holiday period!
• If you’re looking after your finances after the festive season, the Student Funding Unit can help with tips and advice on managing your money.
• Exam timetables are published in February, allowing you plenty of time to prepare.
• If you require extra time, your own room or breaks during exams, make sure you have contacted the Disability Services team to get this in place.
• Get organised and set up a revision or study schedule.
• Stress from deadlines and upcoming exams is natural. Talk through any stress with friends, family, your personal tutor or engage with the Student Hub.
Need-A-Cab operate the Safe Taxi Scheme. If you need a taxi home but don’t have the money to pay there and then, you can call Need-A-Cab and pay at the Students’ Union the next day.
The University campus provides a 24 hours, 365 days a year security service.
Plymouth has been named as one of the UK’s safest places for a night out (Best Bar None) and one of the top safest cities in the UK (Complete University Guide).
• It’s not too late to ask for help. Talk any academic worries through with your personal tutor.
• Learning alongside other students on your course can give you a greater opportunity to broaden your knowledge. Check out our Peer Assisted Learning Scheme (PALS).
• Keep channels of communication open with friends, family and your lecturers.
• Enjoy the UPSU Summer Ball.
• Think about what you want to do over the summer months –whether you want to get a job, volunteer, see friends, take a break, travel. Talk through your plans to avoid any last-minute decisions or regrets.
• Exam results are published in July (depending on faculty).
• If your results are not as expected contact your personal tutor, programme leader or faculty support office for advice.
• Remember that the University is open over the summer period so you will still be able to access support services.
