Where can I study?

Well, we have a fantastic study space right here at the Guild which is open to all students and researchers.

Alongside this, you can visit the main library and explore the numerous other spaces on campus via the University’s website.

Can I provide feedback about my course?

Yes! The Student Rep Scheme is a fantastic way to share any feedback you may have about your course. Students Reps (at Undergraduate and Postgraduate Taught level) and Postgraduate Research Reps are fellow students and researchers who have volunteered or have been elected to represent you at course, school, college or senate (university) level. They gather feedback on academic issues and work with staff to find solutions.

And if you’d like to volunteer to become a course-level Rep, you absolutely can.

You can also speak to your Education Officer about any academic issues and ask any questions.

I’m a PGT, when will I get my timetable?

We don’t have an exact date, but the University is working hard to ensure that you get your timetable as soon as possible before the start of semester one.

How can I access my timetable and useful online resources?

You can visit the University’s website to see the range of digital services they provide, including Canvas, which can be used to view and submit your assignments, explore lecture resources, see your timetable and more.

How do I get my student ID card?

For UK students, depending on when you completed your online registration, your ID card may have been automatically posted to you.

For all other new students (including UK students who registered after the cut-off date) you’ll be able to collect your ID card from the Welcome Registration Hub on campus.

I have questions about moving into halls

That’s great! Explore our accommodation hub to learn all about where you’ll be living and check out the local shops and amenities.

The University have also provided lots of information about accommodation on their website, including booking your arrival time slots.

How can I stay safe in halls?

There are a number of measures in place to keep you safe. You can view more information on the University’s website.

What can I expect on arrivals weekend / moving in day?

On arrivals weekend, all accommodation sites will be filled with our helpful Welcome Crew and staff members who will be there to greet you, direct you to your new hall, help you move in and answer any questions you may have.

You’ll have a particular arrival slot, so you’ll need to make sure you’re there promptly as arrivals is a very busy time. Once you’ve moved your belongings in, you can take time to relax or get exploring your accommodation, campus and the Guild!

If you’re an international student, be sure to visit the University’s website to learn more about airport arrivals.

Making friends in halls

We want to ensure that you have the best possible start to University life and a great way of doing this is by making sure that you have the opportunity to meet new people and make friends.

So, we have a dedicated team of students who host a variety of events in halls so you can have fun, build your community and thrive in your new home. Explore our events page to see what we have planned.

What do I need to do before I arrive?

There are a few things that you can do to prepare for your arrival in Birmingham including:

• Explore our range of Welcome events, including the Welcome Wristband and start mapping out your Welcome Week.
• Complete your online registration.
• Research and register with a local GP so you can access healthcare in Birmingham
• Look at the inventory lists for your accommodation to see what items are already included and get anything you may need i.e. bedding or kitchenware

I have Student Living Plus where can I use this?

A number of eateries on campus accept Student Living Plus. Visit the University’s website to view a full list.

I need academic support

Our Guild Advice service offers confidential, one-to-one support across a range of areas including academia. From referencing, to extenuating circumstances and academic appeals, Guild Advice will be happy to help you or point you in the right direction.

I need support with housing and contracts

If you’re living in student accommodation and need advice on shared living, how to connect with your new flatmates or advice on how to look after yourselves and adjust to life in halls, we have a dedicated team of students who are here to help so be sure to get in contact.

If you’re living in private, rented housing in the community and need support with contracts and tenancies you can speak to Guild Advice, who should be able to help or point you in the right direction.

You can also explore our Housing Hub for lots of useful information about the renting process, from starting your search, to preparing to rent and eventually living in your new student home.

Where can I access wellbeing support?

We have a dedicated team of students based in accommodation who are here to listen, and provide advice and support based on their experience, so don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Alongside Guild Advice, the University offers a number of different support services, including Wellbeing Officers. Plus, you can also access immediate wellbeing support via UB Heard, the University’s confidential listening service, which offers support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

There are lots of different ways to access support, which you can view via our Support page.

How can I get involved in student representation and leadership opportunities?

There are various representation and leadership opportunities for you to get involved in during your time at Birmingham including:

Becoming an academic rep: to relay your fellow postgraduates’ academic feedback to the Guild and University, ensuring postgrad views are heard and prioritised

Joining a student group committee: every society is run by a committee who look after the running of events, administration of the group and much more.

Applying to become a Guild Officer: Guild Officers are students and researchers who are elected to represent the student population for the year ahead, we even have a specific Postgraduate Officer.

What is a society?

A Society is made up of a group of students who have been brought together by a common interest. Each society has its own committee who runs the group and organises key events and activities, students can then become a member of the group to get involved.

We have over 300 societies (or student groups) at the Guild, including MedSoc (societies for medical and dentistry students). Being a member of a society is a great way to learn new skills or hobbies, meet new people, network and have fun over a shared interest.

Head to our Societies and Volunteering page to learn more and find out how to join a group.

How do I choose which societies to join?

The best ways to get to know our groups and decide which you’d like to join is by:

• Exploring groups via our website or the MedSoc website
• Joining us at the Societies Fair and MedSoc Fair during Welcome Week to speak to groups
• Attending Give it a Go taster sessions to try out group activities

Then you’ll be best placed to decide which societies you’d like to join and can do so via our website.

How can I volunteer at the Guild?

Great question! We have a number of volunteering societies that you can join, from Conservation Society to Action Against Homelessness and Dog Soc. These groups do an amazing job of raising awareness and fundraising for good causes, so make sure you explore our range of volunteering groups via our website.

But that’s not all, there are so many volunteering opportunities such as becoming a Student Rep and raising your course mates’ academic feedback to ensure they have the best academic experience.

The Guild is also the home of student democracy, so we run regular elections throughout the year giving you the chance to apply for various other voluntary roles.

How can I make friends as a commuter?

There are so many opportunities to get involved and meet people including:

• Coming along to the various events we have planned in Welcome Week and beyond. We even have daytime events and evening events which may be a good option when negotiating traveling to and from campus. Plus, you’ll definitely want to head to our Commuter Students’ Social!

• Join a society – we have a Commuter Students’ society where you can get to know fellow commuters. Plus, there are over 300 more societies to choose from, so be sure to learn more about how to get involved and the time commitment via our Societies and Volunteering page.

How do I get a job on campus?

The Guild offers a range of flexible part-time jobs to fit around your studies. Want to try your hand at marketing, working in Joe’s Bar or on Reception? Keep checking our Student Staff page and social media for any upcoming vacancies.

You can also contact Worklink about part-time vacancies within the University.

How do I get a student discount?

As a postgraduate at Birmingham, you can apply for a TOTUM card. TOTUM (formerly NUS Extra card) gives you access to a number of discounts on food, fashion, technology and more. You can purchase a year-long TOTUM card online, or you can even opt for a multiple year card, to keep on enjoying those bargains.

How can I meet other postgraduates in my department?

A great way of doing this is by attending networking events and activities. Your school or department may run mandatory sessions which you can view via the Welcome timetable.

Plus, you and your fellow postgrads can head to our range of events at the Guild, including our Postgraduate Students’ Social, for the chance to network.

Meeting fellow students online

There are a number of places where you can interact with your fellow students and researchers and see the latest updates from the Guild, including Instagram, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter) and TikTok.

Each accommodation village has its own Instagram page, which is a great place to learn all about the activities taking place in your hall and find your flatmates ahead of starting University.

Pritchatts Park Village, Selly Oak Village, The Vale Village and City.

What events can I attend?

Guild Events: Throughout the year the Guild hosts a number of events for Postgraduates, from relaxed socials to parties. Kick start the year by exploring our Welcome event programme.

The Graduate School: The Graduate hosts various workshops and networking opportunities.

Making Friends in Halls: If you’re living in halls, then you can access a range of accommodation events and activities throughout the year, giving you the opportunity to network, make friends and relax.

How can I stay up to date about events throughout the year?

Firstly, we’d really suggest following the Guild on social media on Instagram and Facebook to can see the range of events and activities we have on offer throughout the year.

Also, your Postgraduate Officer sends regular email updates to your university email inbox, so you can learn all about upcoming events and opportunities for you to network and get involved.

Where can I go to socialise?

There are so many spaces on campus where you can hang out and a big one is Joe's Bar - our student bar based in the Guild building. Joe’s offers a menu of treats and is the perfect place to stop by for a drink with friends. Our famous FAB club nights and Wednesday Sports Nights are hosted here.

Alongside Joe’s there are a number of campus eateries and coffee shops including: Costa, Starbucks, The Food Court in University Centre on campus and Food Fellows.

Join a group, association or medical society

We’re home to over 300 student groups which cover an array of different areas, from sports to art and everything in between. So we’d certainly suggest that you explore all groups.

Examples of groups that you might like to check out are our liberation associations and our media groups.

What is the Guild of Students?

The Guild is your Students’ Union here at Birmingham. We’re here to represent you, support you, entertain you and above all ensure you have a best in class student experience! Visit our website to learn more about us.

How can Postgrads engage with the Guild?

Great question! The Guild represents the voices of all students, which includes Postgraduates. We achieve this in large part through the work of the Officer Team and in particular the Postgraduate Officer who raises your voice and communicates your perspectives to the University and the Guild.

Our democratic system also provides Postgraduates with the opportunity to submit ideas that you’d like us to work on, feed into meetings and highlight key issues for discussion.

How do I become a member of the Guild?

All registered students and researchers are automatically members of the Guild of Students. As a member you’ll receive regular emails and updates from us and your Postgraduate Officer throughout the year – so be sure to keep checking your Uni emails for the latest news!

Who are the Officer Team?

The Guild is run by a Team of elected student Officers who represent all students and researchers across so many areas of Uni life. From sports to societies and even student democracy - your Officer Team are here to support and represent YOU.

What is Welcome?

Each September we welcome postgrads to Birmingham, by hosting a variety of day time, evening and nighttime events giving you the opportunity to meet your postgraduate community, get to know campus and have fun! A few key events which we’re really excited about are: our Welcome Fair, Societies Fair and club nights included within our Welcome Wristband!

But it doesn’t stop there, we have so much more planned which will be posted right here on our welcome site and our social media.

What events are planned for Welcome?

We’re excited to be hosting a range of events giving you the opportunity to meet your postgrad community, get to know campus and have fun! A few key events which we’re really excited about are: our Welcome Fair, Societies Fair and Welcome club nights.

But it doesn’t stop there, we have so much more planned which will be posted right here on our welcome site and our social media.

Can returners attend events?

100%, so be sure to scroll through the events we’ll be hosting.

When does Welcome Week start?

Welcome Week starts on Monday 23 September.

How can I buy official tickets?

We have noticed lots of unofficial events, Facebook groups and Whatsapp chats popping up across social media asking you to part with your money. Please be aware that these groups are not associated with the Guild or University, in any way!

We can guarantee that all events hosted by us are tailored for University of Birmingham students, and will be held either at the Guild, or at Guild approved venues.

So, we ask you to only purchase tickets for official events available through our website. To make things easier we’ve added an official stamp to all of our events, so you know they’re legitimate!

Will student groups be running events?

They will! The best way to find out about their upcoming events is to check out our Give It A Go page to see lots of taster sessions and explore our student groups’ social media for further updates.

Are you preparing to travel to the UK? Here’s some key information to help you plan your journey:

When do I have to arrive in the UK?

If you’re moving into university or partner accommodation, our official moving in weekend is 21 and 22 September, so many of you will be arriving during this period or just before depending on travel arrangements.

Please note, if you’ll be moving into student accommodation you’ll need to complete your accommodation pass and book your timeslot with the University, so you’ll know exactly when to arrive. You can always contact the accommodation team, your hall’s receptions or landlords for more information about this.

If you will be moving into private housing or accommodation you will need to arrange your arrival with your accommodation provider or landlord.

View the University’s website for more information about moving into accommodation.

I need help with travel arrangements

We’d suggest checking the University’s website for lots of advice and guidance on arriving in the UK, booking your travel and information around airport arrivals.

What should I pack?

As well as your clothes - there are a number of essential items that you need to bring, including:

• Your passport and visa
• All relevant travel documents
• Confirmation of your arrival date / time
• Some money (but please do not to carry large amounts of money with you, you can access your bank later)
• Directions to your accommodation
• Bedding and towels
• Medication and medical information

Keep these items safe and store all essential documents in your hand luggage so you can easily access them. Remember not to leave your baggage unattended during your journey.

These are just a few essentials, but be sure to check the University’s website for a full list of items to bring.

Once you’ve arrived the UK, there are a number of things you will need to do. Here are some key actions to get you started:

BRP and Right to Study

You will need to collect your BRP (Biometric Residence Permit), when you arrive in the UK. You may need to collect it from the University, or even a local Post Office – please check your Visa application for instructions and details.

Furthermore, all international students, who require visas or immigration permissions to be in the UK, are required to complete a Right to Study check. This demonstrates you have the ‘right to study’ in the UK and to complete this process you will need to upload certain documents.

View all information about the Right to Study check and the documents that you will need to upload based on your visa.

Register with a Doctor

It’s important to register with a local GP (General Practitioner), so you can receive healthcare whenever you need to. GPs provide support with both mental and physical health, so it’s important to get registered so you can access the National Health Service (NHS)

You can find a local GP using the NHS’s ‘Find a GP’ tool. Some Doctors Surgeries only accept people who live in certain areas and can be full – so you may have to try more than one.

Learn more about registering with a Doctor.

What are the average monthly living costs?

Take a look at the Gov.uk website to get an idea of the average costs when living as a student or researcher in the UK.

How can I access my timetable and useful online resources?

You can visit the University’s website to see the range of digital services they provide, including Canvas, which can be used to view and submit your assignments, explore lecture resources, see your timetable and more.

How do I get my student ID card?

You should be able to collect your ID card from the Welcome Hub on campus.

View a full list of tasks to complete before you start university.

Getting a part-time job

If you’re looking for a part-time job during your studies the Guild offers various student staff roles throughout the year, advertised on our website. Plus, you can always get in touch with Worklink for various opportunities on campus.

Please note, depending on your course type and visa there may be certain restrictions on how many hours you can work during term time, we encourage you to look into this.

During your time at University, you may find yourself in need a little bit of support, whether this is relating to your studies, finances or to your general wellbeing. Explore support options below:

I need support with my visa

You can speak to the International Students’ Team (IST) at the University. They provide specialist visa support and can help with issues like immigration and adapting to life at university.

I’m nervous about life in the UK

Moving to another country can be challenging at times, the new surroundings and unfamiliar customs can lead to a feeling of culture shock which can be very confusing and frustrating. So, if you start to experience culture shock or feel homesick and want someone to talk to, get in touch with Guild Advice for a confidential one-to-one chat.

I need academic advice

If ever you’re struggling and need some academic support, Guild Advice are here to help. They offer confidential one-to-one advice on a range of subjects including plagiarism, appeals and extenuating circumstances.

I have questions about housing and contracts

If you’re worried about housing and need some support with contracts and the moving process, speak to Guild Advice. They’ll do their best to help you or point you in the right direction for support.

You can also visit our Housing Hub for lots of advice and guidance on renting.

Keeping yourselves safe on campus

The University has a Community Safety Hub on campus to provide support if you need it. From advice on any issues, to information about relevant support services and even free bike locks and personal alarms, the team are here to help.

Key contact information should you need it:

• In cases of an emergency you can call 999
• For non-emergencies you can call the West Midlands Police on 101
• For medical non-emergencies you can call 111 for NHS Support

A fantastic part of university life is making new friends and learning new skills, and a great way of doing this is by joining a student group, otherwise known as a ‘society’.

What is a society?

A student group or ‘society’ is essentially a group of students brought together over a shared interest, which could be anything from Doctor Who to baking. Societies will then host events and activities for their members to join. Any registered student at the University of Birmingham can join a society.

You can learn more about student groups via our Societies and Volunteering page.

How do I choose which societies to join?

The best ways to get to know our groups and decide which you’d like to join is by:

• Exploring groups via our website or the MedSoc* website
• Joining us at the Societies Fair and MedSoc Fair during Welcome Week to speak to groups
• Attending Give it a Go taster sessions to try out group activities

Then you’ll be best placed to decide which societies you’d like to join and can do so via our website. Head to our Societies and Volunteering page to learn more about joining societies or starting your own.

*MedSoc

International Students’ Association (ISA)

The International Students’ Association is a student-led association at the Guild that represents and supports all International students at Birmingham. The ISA organises lots of social events, campaigns and is a great place to meet other international students.

Cultural Student Groups

From Italian Society to Japan Society, there are many cultural student groups representing countries all around the world. Explore our student groups today and get ready to meet your international student community.

Alongside our cultural groups, we also have a range of other societies and associations which explore various interests and hobbies. From art to movies and even ballroom dance, there are so many groups to join.

Groups for Exchange Students

As an exchange student you can join the Exchange Society to socialise and stay connected with your student community. You can also contact your Wellbeing Officer or head to the Student Hub in the Aston Webb building should you need any support.

What is the Guild of Students?

The Guild is your Students’ Union here at the University of Birmingham. The Guild is an organisation created to represent students’ views and beliefs and ensure the student perspective is heard and prioritised at both the Guild and the University.

The Guild is led by a team of student Officers and provides a range of services such as academic, wellbeing and housing support, budgeting advice, and offers student jobs. The Guild is home to over 300 societies and we host a full calendar of events each year giving you the chance to make friends and have fun.

Visit our website to learn more about us.

How do I become a member of the Guild?

All registered students are automatically members of the Guild of Students. As a member you’ll receive regular emails and updates from us throughout the year – so be sure to keep checking your student emails for the latest news!

Who are the Officer Team?

The Guild is run by a Team of elected student Officers who represent all students across so many areas of student life. From sports to societies and even student democracy - your Officer Team are here to support and represent YOU.

We even have a dedicated International Officer who supports our international community, hosts activities and is here to answer any questions.

How can I interact with my fellow students?

There are a few places where you can interact with your fellow students, find out about fantastic upcoming events and get the latest updates from your Guild. Firstly, by following us on Instagram, Facebook, X and TikTok.

You can also meet your new neighbours via your Accommodation Village’s Instagram page.

Pritchatts Park Village, Selly Oak Village, The Vale Village and City.

We also encourage you to explore our range of daytime, evening and nighttime events, as this is a great way to get to know new people.

How can I meet my flatmates?

Each accommodation village has its own Instagram page, which is a great place to learn all about the activities taking place in your hall and find your flatmates ahead of starting University.

Pritchatts Park Village, Selly Oak Village, The Vale Village and City.

During Arrivals Weekend we also host Pizza Parties giving you the chance to meet other students, so we’d really suggest that you go along.

What is Welcome?

Welcome Week is the week before university lectures start, where the Guild and University host a range of exciting activities and events to welcome you, help you make friends and have fun.

What events are planned for Welcome?

A few key events which we’re really excited about are: our International and Postgraduate Socials, Societies Fair and Welcome club nights.

How many events will there be?

There will be a full programme of events, from small scale socials to fabulous parties. You won't want to miss out, so make sure you explore them all on our events page.

Are any club nights planned for Welcome?

Yes! We have a fantastic range of club nights. Some of these events are available to purchase within our Welcome Wristband, giving you priority access! Our events are very popular, so get your tickets soon to avoid disappointment!

Fab is the name of our popular Saturday student club night which takes place right here at the Guild, featuring various DJs, live acts and themes across the year, this night out is a MUST.

When does Welcome start?

Welcome Week starts on 23 September!

How can I make friends?

A great way to make friends is by attending the events and activities organised by the Guild and the University, so you can meet new people. We’d encourage you to attend as many as you like and would really recommend our International Students’ Social.

Your school or department may also run mandatory sessions which you can view via the Welcome timetable.

Joining a student group or ‘society’ is another great way to meet students and make friends, over a shared interest or hobby. You can get to know various student groups via our Societies Fair and Give it a Go taster sessions, where you can try out different activities before choosing to join a society.

How can I buy official tickets?

We have noticed lots of unofficial events, Facebook groups and Whatsapp chats popping up across social media asking you to part with your money. Please be aware that these groups are not associated with the Guild or University, in any way!

We can guarantee that all events hosted by us are tailored for University of Birmingham students, and will be held either at the Guild, or at Guild approved venues.

So, we ask you to only purchase tickets for official events available through our website. To make things easier we’ve added an official stamp to all of our events, so you know they’re legitimate.

Will student groups be running events?

They will! The best way to find out about their upcoming events is to check out our Give It A Go page to see lots of taster sessions.

You can also explore individual student groups’ social media for further updates. You can find a society’s social media by searching for a group and going to their webpage where social media links will be listed.