University Preparation Checklist for Parents: Helping Your Child Transition to Uni with Confidence
Starting university is one of the biggest milestones in your child’s life, and yours. After the A-level exams and the emotional highs and lows of Results Day, the countdown to their first term begins. Whether they’re moving into halls or commuting from home, there’s much more to think about than simply packing their bags.
This university preparation checklist for parents will guide you through the essential steps to take over the summer, so your child can begin this new chapter feeling organised, calm, and confident.
Confirming Their University Place
On Results Day, UCAS Hub will show whether your child has met their offer conditions. If they haven’t, act quickly to explore Clearing options together. Double-check for any outstanding requirements, such as sending exam certificates or ID documents.
If accommodation is part of the plan, ensure they’ve confirmed their place, responded to offers, and paid any necessary deposits.
Sorting Out Student Finance
Applying for Student Finance early is essential to avoid delays. Encourage your child to set up a student bank account, ideally one offering perks like a railcard or interest-free overdraft. Keep copies of confirmation letters and regularly check the online portal for updates.
Finalising Accommodation Arrangements
Before term starts, review the tenancy contract carefully, noting payment schedules, tenancy length, and any rules. Set reminders for rent payments, confirm the move-in date, and find out if a key collection appointment is needed.
Taking Care of Health and Wellbeing
Register your child with a GP near their university address and update their NHS records. Check vaccinations – MMR and MenACWY are particularly important for students living in shared spaces. If they take regular medication, make sure they have enough supply to last until they can register locally.
Preparing for Academic Success
Go through the course reading list and get books early, considering second-hand or eBook options to save money. Check whether the university offers free or discounted software. Stock up on stationery and study supplies well before term starts.
Getting Digital Ready
Help them set up and regularly check their university email. Complete online student registration steps in advance and save contact details for key university services, such as accommodation, finance, and IT support.
Building Money Management Skills
Work together to create a realistic budget covering rent, bills, food, travel, and leisure. Discuss when their student loan will be paid, so they can plan their spending. Recommend budgeting apps to help them stay on track.
Organising Important Documents
Make sure both digital and paper copies of essential documents are safely stored. This includes their passport or driving licence, Student Finance letters, accommodation contract, UCAS offer confirmation, exam certificates, NHS number, and GP details.
Packing Moving-In Essentials
Help them pack sensibly, focusing on what they’ll truly need. Bedding, basic kitchen items, laundry supplies, and extension leads often make the list, but always check what the accommodation already provides to avoid duplicates.
Preparing for Freshers’ Week
Joining online groups for their course or accommodation can help your child make friends before term begins. An NUS Totum card offers great student discounts, and if they’ll be commuting, a railcard or bus pass can save a significant amount over the year.
To Wrap Things Up
This is a huge step towards independence for your child, and an important transition for you too. The more you prepare together now, the smoother their start will be. By getting organised over the summer, you’re giving them the freedom to focus on settling in, making friends, and embracing university life with confidence.
For more information on how to prepare your child for university, you can read our post on ‘What Should You Know Before Your Child Starts University’.
1. What is Freshers’ Week and why is it important for my child?
Freshers’ Week is the welcome period at the start of university, filled with events, socials, and a societies fair. It’s one of the best opportunities for your child to make new friends, join clubs, and begin settling into student life.
2. How can my child connect with other students before arriving at university?
Most universities create Freshers’ Facebook groups or online forums where students can meet their flatmates and course mates in advance. Encouraging your child to join these groups early can help them feel more confident and less nervous before moving away.
3. Is student finance available to my child?
Your child may be eligible for student finance if they normally live and work in England and have lived in the UK, the Channel Islands, or the Isle of Man for at least three years before starting their course.
4. Does my child need a student bank account before starting university?
It is strongly recommended that your child opens a student bank account before starting university. These accounts often include useful benefits such as a free railcard or an interest-free overdraft, which can help them manage money more effectively.