Before you arrive – checklist

In the weeks leading up to your arrival at Southampton, and during your first week, there are a number of things you'll need to remember. This checklist should help.

Female student in roomBefore you arrive

  • Enrol online - you will need your student ID number, your current permanent address, your term-time address, your emergency contact details and information on sponsors (if your tuition fees are not being paid by you or your family)
  • Read Welcome to Southampton: A Guide for New Students 2011/12 (available in the 'Useful downloads' section of this page)
  • Read your Faculty's induction arrangements (available on this page)
  • Complete and return an application for your University of Southampton ID card
  • Ensure that you have the relevant documents required to prove your identity. Please DO NOT send these documents to the University. Please bring them with you to present at your Academic School during induction.
  • Accept any offer of accommodation online (if applicable)
  • Ensure that you have sufficient funds for living costs for at least the first 4 weeks
  • Ensure that you can provide all original supporting documents covering your relevant academic and/or English language qualifications. You will be required to show these during the induction process. Failure to provide original documentation may result in your place being withdrawn.
  • Arrange for Meningitis C (not A+C) and Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccinations (two doses)
  • Register with the International Office for International Induction Week (if applicable)
  • If entering the UK to study ensure the correct documentation can be presented to the Immigration Officer:
    • Passport/Biometric identity card
    • Entry clearance/visa
    • Evidence of funding or financial support
    • Offer/Acceptance letter from the University of Southampton
  • If arriving at Heathrow Airport register with the University of Southampton’s ‘Meet and Greet’ service
  • Set up a student bank account
  • Arrange insurance for your possessions

During your first week

  • Attend your Faculty induction meeting and ensure your attendance is recorded. The Student Loan Company (SLC) will be notified accordingly and will transfer your loan (if applicable)
  • Attend an induction session organised by the Library
  • Attend a Students’ Union welcome meeting
  • Attend Hall of Residence welcome meetings (if applicable)
  • If you are an international student holding a Tier 4 visa to study at the University of Southampton, attend a Visa, Passport and Identity 'Check-in' with the Student Records Team
  • If you are an international student at the University and your visa requires you to register with the Police, you should make arrangements to do this. For further information and assistance visit the Visa Guidance Team website 
  • Pay at least the first instalment of your tuition fees:
  • Register with a local GP (doctor)
  • Visit your teaching campus to familiarise yourself with the facilities
  • Familiarise yourself with the local area
  • Talk to people!