Pre-Arrival Checklist
This checklist highlights the important tasks you should complete and the arrangements you should make before arriving in Aberystwyth to begin your studies.
Apply for your Visa
If you are an International Student, you will need to apply for a Student Visa before travelling to the UK. Make sure you allow plenty of time for your application and check that you have all the requires documentation.
Our Visa and Immigration webpages provide detailed guidance on the application process, supporting documents, and important information to help you prepare for your studies at Aberystwyth University.
How to apply for your Visa
Your Accommodation
If you are planning to live in University Accommodation, it is important to explore the accommodation options available and submit your application through the Accommodation Portal before you arrive.
Our accommodation webpages provide information about the different residences, room types, costs, and the application process, helping you choose the option that best suits your needs.
How to apply for Accommodation
Arrange your Student Finance and Tuition Payments
Most students are eligible for financial support to help cover tuition fees and living costs while studying. If you plan to apply for Student Finance, we recommend submitting your application as early as possible to ensure your funding is in place when you start your course.
If your tuition fees will be paid by the Student Loans Company, you should familiarise yourself with the payment process. If you are paying for your own fees or your fees are being funded by an external sponsor, please refer to our guidance on how to make payments to the University.
Student Loans Company Payment Process
Activate your Aberystwyth University IT account
You will receive an email to your personal email address with instructions on how to activate your Aberystwyth University IT account. Please keep an eye out for this email and follow the steps provided, as it is important that you activate your account before arriving at University.
Apply for your Aber Card
Your Aber Card is your official student identification card and will be an important part of your University experience. It can be used to access your accommodation and various University facilities, including our 24-hour computer rooms. You’ll also use it to register your attendance at academic sessions.
Once you have activated your Aberystwyth University IT account, you can apply for your Aber Card. Please ensure that you submit your application at least one week before arriving on campus.
How to apply for your Aber Card
Registration Tasks
Before you arrive in September we'll be in touch with details about the two Registration tasks you'll need to complete through your Student Record: Pre-Registration (module choices) and Online Registration (the final step to register as an Aberystwyth University Student).
Depending on your course, some students may not need to complete Pre-Registration, but all students must complete Online Registration. We will send messages to your Student e-mail account with Registration task instructions. Full guidance, including timetables for different schemes will be available online.
Find out more
Additional Support
If you have a disability, learning difference, long-term health condition, or mental health condition, we encourage you to get in touch before you arrive so that we can provide you with advice, guidance, and information about the support and reasonable adjustments that may be available to you during your studies.
Contacting us early helps ensure that any support can be put in place as smoothly as possible.
If you would like to discuss your needs or find out more, please email accessibility@aber.ac.uk before you arrive.
Our Accessibility and Inclusion Team
Familiarise yourself with the Student Hub
The Student Hub is your central online portal for accessing key information, services, and systems throughout your studies at Aberystwyth University. Before you arrive, take some time to explore the Hub and familiarise yourself with the resources available.
Access the Student Hub
Complete the Online Student Induction
The Online Student Induction provides useful information about what to expect at Aberystwyth University, as well as the support, services, and opportunities available to you throughout your studies. You can work through the University Induction material in your own time.
Access the Online Student Induction
Register with a GP (Family Doctor)
We recommend that you register with a local GP before or soon after arriving in Aberystwyth. It is important that you can access healthcare support when you need it.
Register with a GP
Check that Vaccinations/Immunisations are up to date
We strongly recommend that your Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) and Meningitis ACWY vaccinations are up to date before you start University. If you are unsure whether you have received these vaccinations, or if you have not yet had them, please contact your GP for advice.
Explore our Student Health Pages
Start Packing
Deciding what to pack for University can feel overwhelming, but don't worry, most forgotten or non-essential items can be bought locally or online once you arrive. Be sure to pack any important documents, such as your passport, visa, and any medication or prescriptions you may need.
If you will be living in University accommodation, check what is already provided in your room or flat before you start packing.
What to bring with you
Plan your Journey
Before you travel, take some time to plan your journey and explore the different transport options available for getting you to and around Aberystwyth.
Plan your journey