Going to university - A guide for families (University of Ulster)

Your future, make it happen

A guide for families

Going to university...

As a grandparent

As a fatherAs a mother

As a brother

As a sister

Or as an applicant...

��'DQVNH�88�3URVSHFWXV�)UHHGRP�'36�-0��35,17�LQGG��

It’s normal to have lots of questions!

��'DQVNH�88�3URVSHFWXV�)UHHGRP�'36�-0��35,17�LQGG��

04/05A guide for families

A family guideContents

Page

6

8

10

12

16

18

Lending a helping handProviding advice and guidance

The nuts and boltsWhy university is important

Every picture tells a storyStudying at the University of Ulster

Actions speak louder than wordsWorking in partnership with industry

Making the differenceProviding access to all

Getting you up to speedLife at the University of Ulster

At one’s beck and callStudent support

Leading you every step of the wayUCAS application process

Money mattersThe cost of university

A home from homeArranging a place to live

Hit the ground runningFamily support

20

22

36

38

42

06/07

Providing advice and guidance

Lending a helping hand

Students tell us that the most valuable support and encouragement they receive when applying to university is from their parents and family. Let us support you through their UCAS journey - from choosing courses to starting university.

At Ulster, we recognise that applying to university is an exciting but anxious time. As a parent or family member you may have concerns about the best advice to give, understanding the UCAS application process and questions around tuition fees, accommodation costs, support services and much more.

We have a wealth of experience in providing advice and guidance on a wide range of higher education topics. We regularly visit schools and colleges as part of our engagement programme and offer advice throughout the application process.

This guide will help answer your questions and our website www.ulster.ac.uk/study is another valuable source of information. Should any of your questions remain unanswered please contact us.

We look forward to welcoming your family member as an Ulster student.

A guide for families

Why university is important

The nuts and bolts

The argument for university might seem obvious but it is worth restating. A university degree improves career prospects and earning potential. On average, people with higher education qualifications earn more over their working lives than non-graduates.

Going to university can give graduates a head start with transferable skills valued by employers such as the ability to work with others, critical and analytical thinking, research skills, problem-solving and communication skills. These skills, together with an academic qualification, offer graduates an advantage in the fast-changing world of employment.


Studying at the University of Ulster

Every picture tells a story Ulster is a modern university

delivering high-quality applied and vocational courses at four campuses in Northern Ireland and two branch campuses in England. Ulster has all the teaching, studying and living facilities you would expect from a modern university. There are many reasons why Ulster is a great place to live and study:

Great TeachingOur teaching, and the learning experience we deliver, is rated at the highest level. (Quality Assurance Agency)

Our highly-experienced academic staff maintain their subject knowledge through scholarship and focused research.

Enhanced EmployabilityAlmost 90% of Ulster graduates are in work or further study six months after graduation – one of the highest rates in the UK. Ulster is also one of the top universities for providing a period of work placement.

Ulster WelcomeThe friendliness and support we offer helps students to feel at home and make an easy transition to university life. Our campuses offer an inclusive learning environment welcoming learners from all backgrounds.

PopularityWe are in the top-20 UK universities for UCAS applications, receiving around 35,000 applications each year to our undergraduate courses. We currently welcome more than 2,500 students from over 90 countries and our 140,000 Alumni come from 121 countries.

Teaching Informed by ResearchWorld-class research enhances our teaching quality. Ulster is world-renowned for its academic and research excellence. 86% of Ulster’s research is rated as being of international quality. 21 of the 25 research areas at Ulster have been assessed as world-leading. Eleven of our research areas are ranked in the top-20.

Providing Top FacilitiesWe spend over £3 million per year on books and periodicals and are in the top-30 UK universities for facilities spend for students (Complete University Guide).

Leading in SportUlster is a leading university for sport in Ireland and the UK. There are opportunities across all our campuses to participate in a wide variety of individual and team sports for fun or at a more competitive level. Most sports are represented by one of our clubs and societies.

Affordable EducationNorthern Ireland is one of the most affordable UK regions in which to live and study. In addition to low fees, Ulster’s high-quality student accommodation is amongst the most competitively priced in the UK.

Social ResponsibilityWe recognise the impact the University has on the environment and strive to reduce our footprint. We are 23rd in the People and Planet Green League and we were voted most improved university in the UK. Ulster is a socially- responsible university with a policy of investing in companies whose activities are consistent with our Vision and Values. Fairtrade produce is widely available across our campuses.

Teaching ExcellenceThe quality of our teaching ensures our learning experience is of the highest possible academic standard. Our programmes are regularly reviewed and we constantly monitor the changing employment market to ensure students attain the knowledge, skills and professional qualifications to enable them to excel in their future career. Many of our academic staff are involved in cutting-edge research reflected in the teaching given at Ulster.


Working in partnership with industry

Actions speak louder than words Employability is central to the

education we deliver. Our courses are developed in partnership with industry and we go to great lengths to ensure our graduates leave Ulster with the knowledge, skills and confidence to succeed in the workplace. In addition to well-designed courses, we have a wide range of services that support our students:

Professional AccreditationOur degree programmes are developed with industry and professional bodies. Many offer an additional professional qualification.

Career PlanningOur Career Development Centre (CDC) staff offer friendly and impartial help and advice. We publicise graduate vacancies for permanent employment, placement experience and vacation and part-time work. We also organise regular fairs and forums for meeting employers and professional bodies.

Work ExperienceAt Ulster, many of our courses offer the opportunity to undertake a period of work experience or to study abroad. According to the Graduate Market 2013 Report, most employers are looking for graduates who have undertaken work experience. Over a third of this year’s graduate vacancies are likely to be filled by applicants who have already worked for the employer.

Work experience can also be gained through a number of work-based programmes, such as the Science Shop and Tutoring in Schools. For further information see www.scienceshopprojects.com, www.ulster.ac.uk/teachlearn/access/tis

Giving the EDGEOn average there are over 60 applications for every graduate job. Employers are placing more emphasis on recruiting graduates who not only have a degree, but who are also equipped with key transferable skills and have a desire to learn more and improve these skills. The EDGE award provides official recognition and evidence of activities outside of study. It is awarded in addition to the degree and will give the opportunity to engage in a wide range of activities that boost career prospects and show a commitment to personal development. For further information see www.ulster.ac.uk/edge


Study AbroadMany courses offer the opportunity to study in a university overseas. The Erasmus programme provides financial assistance for students undertaking work placements in Europe as part of their course. There are also opportunities in North America or further afield. For more information see www.ulster.ac.uk/international

International Placement and Internship ProgrammesSome internship programmes give the opportunity to work in America and Europe for up to one year, either as part of placement or as a graduate. These include the US-NI Mentorship Programme, the Eurograduate Programme, the IBEC Export Orientation Programme and the EOP Standard Graduate Programme. For more information see www.ulster.ac.uk/international

International Work ExperienceThere is a wide range of short-term work and study options available, including paid internships abroad for computing, science and construction students through IAESTE (the International Association for the Exchange of Students for Technical Experience); and the Washington-Ireland Programme, allowing students to undertake an eight-week internship in Washington, DC. Working in USA children’s summer camps through BUNAC (British Universities North America Club) is a popular experience for students. The University also offers a number of travel scholarships. For more information see www.ulster.ac.uk/international

Higher Education Achievement ReportThe University provides a Higher Education Achievement Report (HEAR) to all students upon graduation. It provides a detailed record of a student’s academic and extra-curricular achievements to supplement the traditional degree classification. HEAR allows students to showcase their achievements to employers and postgraduate tutors, as well as helping students develop new skills during their time in higher education. For more information see www.hefce.ac.uk


Providing access to all

Making the difference We believe that everyone who

has the ability should have the opportunity to study at university and we are strongly committed to widening access. We are proud to be in the top-5 UK universities providing access to students from all economic backgrounds.

It is important to remember that not everyone progresses straight from school to a full-time course at university. Students come with a range of qualifications from schools and further education colleges including BTECs, Access Awards, Foundation Degrees and A-Levels. Part-time study is also an option that allows the flexibility to work while studying for the same qualification as full-time students.

Foundation DegreesUlster validates a range of foundation degrees at local partner colleges. These qualifications are a great way of studying for a vocational qualification to help improve employability or as a means of progressing to university. Graduates from our foundation degrees typically start on year two of our undergraduate degree programmes.

Part-time StudyPart-time study gives the flexibility to balance personal commitments and to study at a pace that suits. Depending on the course, teaching may be delivered on campus, entirely online or a combination of both – often called ‘blended’ learning. It is the same teaching, excellent support and the same facilities as full-time students. In most cases teaching is alongside full-time students. For more information see www.ulster.ac.uk/part-time

Athlete Entry SchemeThe University of Ulster Talented Athlete Entry Scheme is designed to assist talented athletes in gaining access to a quality education whilst attaining success at the highest levels in their chosen sport. The Scheme recognises the time and effort required to compete at the highest levels. Under the Talented Athlete Entry Scheme, the University allows a reduction in the points required for entry to full-time undergraduate courses. Successful applicants to the Scheme will be offered a reduction in entrance requirements of 40 UCAS tariff points or the equivalent in other accepted entrance qualifications. For more information see http://sportsulster.com from September to January each year.


Life at the University of Ulster

Getting you up to speed Academic Year

At Ulster the academic year is divided into two semesters for most students (some students, e.g. Nursing, have a longer academic year). The first semester runs from September until mid-January, and the second from late January to May. Each semester comprises 12 weeks of teaching followed by an exam period. Full-time students will study at least three modules in each semester (18 modules of study make up a degree programme). Most modules are assessed through coursework and exams and both sections must be passed. The first-semester exams are in early January and the second semester exams in May.

Lectures, Seminars and TutorialsTeaching at Ulster is through lectures, seminars and tutorials and in some cases, practicals and fieldwork. Lectures are formal teaching sessions often with a larger group of students. Seminars, which usually provide a form of follow-up to lectures, take place in smaller groups and are often used to promote group discussion about a specific topic. In tutorials a small number of students meet with a tutor to discuss work and to raise points of particular interest or difficulty.

If you look at the timetable for a student, you will see that the number of taught hours at university is probably much less than at school or college. However, a full-time student should be studying approximately 40 hours per week. The main difference from school is that the student is expected to study independently – to organise his/ her time to study effectively and to decide which materials to study and how.

Students are expected to read about their subject (reading lists are generally provided, particularly in the first year), prepare for seminars and complete assignments. Each student is allocated a Studies Adviser, but it is up to the student to keep staff informed of any difficulties he/she might be having.

Work Placement or Study AbroadStudents may also be required or opt to go on work experience or study abroad during their third year at university. For some medical-related courses students will be required to undertake block work placements throughout the course. Placement adds valuable work experience to a CV which for many employers is an essential requirement. Graduates who have completed work placement have been proven to achieve higher awards in their degree and are more successful in securing graduate jobs.


Student support

At one’s beck and call Students are fully supported should

any problems arise. At Ulster we take our students’ welfare very seriously and pride ourselves on providing a real community atmosphere in which students flourish and make the best of their experience.

Ulster Students’ UnionThe Students’ Union is an important part of our student support network. Free, confidential advice and information is available on any issue or aspect of student life at Ulster. Welfare officers can advise on issues such as study, accommodation, how to deal with stress or anything else that prevents a student from making the most of their student experience.

ChaplainsChaplains are present on campus to offer encouragement to students and staff seeking to live out their faith while at university. Fuller details of Chaplaincy events are available on the Chaplaincy websites. For more information see www.ulster.ac.uk/chaplains

Academic SupportEach student is assigned a Studies Adviser who provides guidance in matters relating to choice of modules, assessment and progress.

CounsellingOur Counselling Service is available if students want to speak to someone in confidence about any issue.

DisabilityOur Disability Services are committed to developing an inclusive environment for all students. We welcome enquiries from prospective students with specific learning difficulties such as dyslexia, sensory impairments, mobility difficulties, medical conditions or mental health concerns. We encourage applicants and students to disclose any disability or medical condition to ensure that reasonable adjustments are arranged.

Financial Advice The Student Funding Team provide information on all aspects of student finance. We offer assistance with student grant or loan issues, liaise with grant awarding authorities on behalf of students and provide information on trust funds outside the University and give general advice on budgeting.

HealthcareConfidential healthcare is provided by a team of experienced registered nurses. All students living away from home are required to register with a local doctor. Non-UK and Republic of Ireland citizens are entitled to a medical card. Forms are available from Student Support.

MentoringSupport is sometimes offered to students by peer mentors who are currently studying at Ulster. Peer mentors support students with a range of mental health difficulties, offering one-to-one support and study skills throughout the academic year.

Staff-Student Consultative Committees (SSCC)Student feedback is important to us. We offer students an opportunity to have direct input into how courses are run, and how they might develop. The SSCC comprises elected student representatives from each course who represent the views of classmates and contribute to discussions with members of academic staff.


UCAS application process

Leading you every step of the way

All students who apply for a full-time higher education course at universities and colleges in the UK use the UCAS online ‘Apply’ system. Applications can be submitted online from September until 15 January of the year the course starts. Late applications can be made after this date but universities are not obliged to consider them equally with all other applications.

UCAS is the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service and they coordinate the undergraduate admissions process for UK universities.

UCAS outlines the process in six steps; from researching the courses of study to starting university.

UCAS Six Steps

Choosing courses

Applying

Offers

Results

Next Steps

Starting University


Step 1: Choosing courses Before making an application to university it is important to fully research what is available. Find courses through the UCAS or UNISTATS websites. Look at university websites and prospectuses. Check out what the course entails rather than simply choosing a course by its title. Courses at different universities may have the same titles but can be very different in what they teach.

Search Key Information Sets (KIS) – which includes information on student satisfaction, graduate outcomes, learning and teaching activities, assessment methods, tuition fees and student finance, accommodation and professional accreditation.

The Key Information Set (KIS) is a valuable source of information that allows comparisons to be made between courses. KIS information is displayed on our online prospectus and can be used to compare courses at other institutions through www.unistats.co.uk.

The KIS should support the decision-making process but should not be the only source of information. Websites and prospectuses are great sources of information but visiting a campus and talking to our staff and students at open days and UCAS fairs will give a better feel for the place and its atmosphere. Talking to teachers, family and friends is also very important.

UCAS Six Steps

Choosing courses

Applying

Offers

Results

Next Steps

Starting University

University websites are full of useful information on course specifications, virtual campus tours and student testimonials. They also provide details on how universities are performing in league tables and in their teaching and research.

Course Entry Profiles (EP) are another useful source of information and are available at UCAS. They are designed to help applicants make fully informed choices and select the right courses for them. Students looking at Entry Profiles expect to see course details, the entry qualifications required and information about the institution, as well as the qualities looked for in potential students.


UCAS Six Steps

Choosing courses

Applying

Offers

Results

Next Steps

Starting University

Your family member should be realistic when considering course entry requirements. If they have achieved a grade ‘C’ in their AS should they apply to courses requiring grade ‘A’ from their A level? It is best to select courses with higher and lower entry requirements and ensure that subject requirements are also different - e.g. if one course requires AAB and another asks for ABB they may each require the grade A to be in Mathematics – what if mathematics is the weaker subject?

It is wise to think about employment opportunities – is a specific subject required for the profession? What are the entry requirements, at both GCSE and A level? Is there an admissions test, such as HPAT-Ulster*, an audition, a portfolio review, an interview or the need to demonstrate evidence of experience?

* Health Professions Admission Test (HPAT- Ulster)

Ulster is the sole provider of Allied Health Profession education in Northern Ireland and has built a strong reputation for high quality delivery across the range of disciplines including Dietetics, Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy, Podiatry, Diagnostic Radiography & Imaging, Radiotherapy & Oncology and Speech & Language Therapy.

Applications to take this test are made alongside the UCAS process, and details are available on the HPAT-Ulster website www.hpat.org.uk. All applicants must have completed HPAT-Ulster to be considered for entry to University of Ulster Allied Health Profession programmes.

The HPAT-Ulster practice test, providing a sample of questions, is available in the form of an e-book.

It is advisable to attend university Open Days. We advertise our Open Days and other information events and we welcome your attendance. You can attend talks, speak to students and staff, tour the campus facilities and find out about courses. For more information see www.ulster.ac.uk/opendays

It is important to consider not only the academic aspects but also issues such as accommodation facilities – how much will it cost and will your family member require transport to get from their accommodation to university?

Step 2: Applying If your family member is still at school then they must make their application through their school. Schools will advise on how to do this.

A maximum of five choices are available. Students should apply only to places where they want to go. A standard application fee applies.

Application DeadlineAlthough 15 January is the application deadline for the majority of courses at UCAS, most schools will require the final draft of the application form to be completed by the end of October, this includes the Personal Statement. This allows the school sufficient time to check the application form and prepare the school reference.


Personal StatementA critical factor in the application process is the writing of a clear and convincing Personal Statement. Applicants may find writing about themselves a strange experience – this is when they might welcome your input.

There is no such thing as a model statement – each one should be different. The key word in personal statement is ‘personal’.

Stand out from the crowd! We are looking for statements that tell us why they are suitabile for the course and demonstrate their passion, enthusiasm and commitment.

Writing a personal statement can be challenging and time-consuming. Your family member has 4000 characters/47 lines in which to promote themselves by covering their academic interests, work experience, relevant achievements, hobbies and interests! Many young people are reluctant to promote their positive attributes or are forgetful about their various achievements, others may not recognise or see the relevance of the skills being developed through part-time jobs. You shouldn’t write the personal statement but you certainly can have input and offer advice if necessary. There are many websites available offering advice on writing the personal statement – a useful starting point is the UCAS website itself.

UCAS: ‘Some course tutors find personal statements crucial when making decisions, whereas others might not put as much emphasis on them. Since your family member doesn’t know who will be looking at their statement, the safest thing is to do a good job. In many cases, applicants are not interviewed, so this may be their only chance to make the case for them to be offered a place. The person reading the statement is an expert in the chosen area of interest so they will want to know the reasons why they have chosen the subject.’

Plagiarism TestingAll personal statements sent to UCAS are tested for similarity. There are some example personal statements on the Internet that have been used by applicants, in some cases word for word. The service used by UCAS, called Copycatch, finds statements that show similarity, works out how much of the statement may have been copied, and reports the findings. It helps admissions staff at universities and colleges judge applications, and it is the institutions who decide what action, if any, to take regarding notified cases. Research has shown that the majority of UCAS applicants do write their own personal statements. However, the number making use of other people’s material was high enough to justify the introduction of the Similarity Detection Service.

UCAS Six Steps

Choosing courses

Applying

Offers

Results

Next Steps

Starting University

Step 3: Offers Receiving an OfferUniversities will consider the application before making an offer. Some courses may require an interview, audition or admissions test. This will be communicated directly. Offers will be either conditional or unconditional. If the entry requirements have already been met then it is likely that the offer will be unconditional. If examination results are still to come then the offer will be conditional. The conditional offer will say what is expected before a place will be given. Most offers are conditional as school pupils have not yet completed their studies at the time of application.


Only two offers may be accepted and the others are declined. The accepted offers are prioritised as the ‘firm’ acceptance and the ‘insurance’ acceptance. The insurance choice is the second choice in case they do not meet the requirements for their firm choice. It is highly recommended that the second choice should have lower grade requirements than the first choice.

If the entry requirements of the offer are achieved for the firm choice then the applicant is automatically accepted to that course. If the entry requirement is not achieved for the firm, but is achieved for the insurance, then they will automatically be accepted to the insurance.

Once they have decided which offer to accept firmly, and which (if any) to accept as an insurance, they must decline all other offers. If they don’t want to accept any of the offers, they can decline them all. They will then be eligible to use Extra or Clearing depending upon their circumstances.

Information Events Many of our faculties hold information events, also known as Insight Nights. Prior to confirming which courses will be their firm and insurance choices applicants and their families are invited to visit the University where they are not only given an insight into the course, but are also given the opportunity to meet with staff, current and former students and employers.

What if your family member does not receive any offers?If all five applications have been rejected or all of the offers received have been declined, an application to another course or university can be made through UCAS Extra. UCAS Extra operates from mid-February to the end of June. Further information is available at www.ucas.com

Responding to an OfferIt is important to note that universities, and different courses, make their offers at different times. It is recommended to wait until your family member has had a response from all their applications before making a decision on which two to accept. There is no pressure or rush to make decisions as long as they meet the necessary deadlines. Look at the UCAS deadlines to understand what has to be done by when. For more information see www.ucas.com/students/importantdates


UCAS Six Steps

Choosing courses

Applying

Offers

Results

Next Steps

Starting University

Step 4: ResultsThe next step is down to your family member to make sure they achieve the grades they need to get into their first choice of university!

Please remember that they need to be available when the results are published. They might have to make quick and perhaps difficult decisions about their future. They need to be prepared to speak to universities and colleges themselves and not leave this to somebody else.

Be supportive whatever their results – they will need your support to get through the next stages.

Your family member can check on UCAS Track at www.ucas.com to see if they’ve got a place on their chosen course. If they’ve met all the conditions of their offer, the university will confirm they have a place.

If they haven’t been successful with their first choice they may have met the conditions of their insurance choice – if so, the university will confirm their place.

If they just missed out on their expected grades by only a few points, they may still be able to get a place on their chosen university course.

What happens if they have been unsuccessful for both choices? It is important to remember that it’s not the end of the world. Even if their points are much less than they thought, there’s still an opportunity to get a place through Clearing. Following the publication of results, the University holds an Advice Day for applicants to research their alternatives with admissions and academic staff.


UCAS Six Steps

Choosing courses

Applying

Offers

Results

Next Steps

Starting University

Step 6: Starting UniversityCongratulations, you’ve done it!Your family member will receive information on their timetable and registration dates directly from the University.

UCAS Six Steps

Choosing courses

Applying

Offers

Results

Next Steps

Starting University

Step 5: Next StepsIf your family member receives lower grades than expected they may find an alternative course through Clearing. This is a process which allows them to search and apply for courses with vacancies. It is important not to panic at this stage but to carefully research options before selecting a course.

What happens if your family member passes with better results than predicted? Adjustment provides an opportunity for these applicants to reconsider where and what to study, whilst still being able to keep their original firm choice.

Further details on Clearing and Adjustment are available at www.ucas.com

If your family member is having an examination paper remarked, be aware that there are time restrictions to this process.

It is possible to progress to university via the further education sector. Your family member may wish to investigate the various progression opportunities available. We work closely with the local colleges and offer many courses through collaboration. Options available can be discussed at our annual Advice Day, faculty admissions staff or further education staff.


The cost ofuniversity

Money matters

It is difficult to put an exact figure on going to university as everyone’s expenditure will be different depending on where and what they study, whether they live at home, in halls of residence or private accommodation, their travel arrangements and lifestyle.

Many families choose to financially support their family member but it is important to remember that lack of finance should not be a barrier to university. Loans for tuition fees and living costs are taken by most students. Part-time employment helps to supplement loans and is a good way for students to gain valuable work experience.

Tuition feesTuition fees for students from Northern Ireland, Republic of Ireland and EU countries (excluding Great Britain) are just £3,685 per year for full-time undergraduate courses, integrated masters and equivalent (2014 entry). Tuition fees for a placement year or study abroad year are £1,835. Fees do not have to be paid up-front – a tuition fees loan can be taken out and repayment deferred until after graduation and earning a salary over a certain income (currently £16,910 per annum).

Northern Ireland students can also apply for maintenance loans, Government grants and university bursaries. See the ‘Applying’ section of our website for more details. Also seewww.studentfinanceni.co.uk

Republic of Ireland students can transfer their maintenance awards to Northern Ireland. Find out more about student finance for ROI students at www.studentfinance.ie

Funding arrangements for students from England, Scotland and Wales may vary. To find out more, please visit the relevant funding body website:

Student Finance Englandwww.direct.gov.uk

Student Awards Agency for Scotland (SAAS)www.saas.gov.uk

Student Finance Waleswww.studentfinancewales.co.uk

Tuition fees for students from England, Scotland and Wales are just £6,000 per year for full-time undergraduate courses, integrated masters and equivalent (2014 entry). Fees do not have to be paid up front – a tuition fees loan can be taken out and repayment deferred until after graduation and earning a salary over a certain income.

Part-time StudyStudying part-time gives the flexibility to learn at a slower pace and typically costs less than the equivalent full-time course. For more information on part-time fees see www.ulster.ac.uk/ptfees


Arranging a place to live

A home from home How and when should you

apply for a place in student accommodation?Students who have made Ulster their Conditional Firm (CF) choice through UCAS are eligible to apply for accommodation from 5 May of the year of entry. To apply for accommodation CF students will be emailed by Residential Services who will provide them with a web link to the portal for online accommodation applications. This email will also include the student reference number known as the B number which the student will need to register online to apply for accommodation.

CF students applying for accommodation can avail of the accommodation guarantee if they apply before 7 July and are also accepted onto their original course of study. Once a student has been accepted onto a course an accommodation offer is made automatically by Residential Services by email. The student can then decide whether to accept the original accommodation offer, request a different room or withdraw their application completely.

Starting university is an exciting and challenging time and arranging a place to live is a priority for many students. Living with other students is all part of the university experience! Living in university accommodation offers students a comfortable and independent lifestyle and is particularly appealing to students who have not lived away from home before.

We offer 2,400 places across, and in the vicinity of, our four campuses. You can browse through the range of accommodation, take a virtual tour and see price lists on our accommodation website.

We know that many parents have anxieties and concerns about their children moving away from home and are unsure about securing university accommodation. Gareth Kennedy, Head of Residential Services at Ulster guides us through the process:

How much does student accommodation cost? How can payment be made?The university offers a range of accommodation options across its campuses to cater for every budget and taste. This ranges from ensuite to standard room accommodation with costs from £56 to £95 per week depending on the location and quality of the accommodation. Students should check out www.accommodation.ulster.ac.uk for current prices.

What does the cost include?Generally the price includes all utility costs, a housekeeping service, Internet access including WiFi (limited to some areas), pastoral support provided through Night Support and Resident Assistants, security, CCTV and block insurance scheme for contents and belongings.


Are there any additional accommodation costs?Laundry facilities are provided on each campus at an additional cost. In some off-campus accommodation, students have the flexibility of paying their own heating costs.

University accommodation is recommended for all first year and international students. Students residing in university accommodation have a greater chance of proceeding though their course than those residing in other accommodation.

University accommodation offers the opportunity to mix with students from different cultural and ethnic backgrounds in a safe and secure environment. The pastoral support team provides advice and guidance on issues of homesickness and signposts students to the appropriate support services within the University.

A comprehensive induction is provided to all students moving into accommodation. Exciting social events are organised at the beginning of the year to help students develop a comprehensive friendship group beyond those in their apartment or on their course. Ongoing events are organised throughout the year to develop and maintain a sense of community within the residential student body.

Further information on our accommodation at Magee, Jordanstown and Coleraine is available at www.accommodation.ulster.ac.uk

Belfast Students at the Belfast campus can apply to live in University accommodation at the Jordanstown campus. There are excellent rail, bus and taxi links between these campuses. Alternatively, there is also private accommodation.

ColeraineOur Student Village offers great on-campus accommodation. Most rooms have en-suite facilities, and all have a broadband connection and access to the Internet. There are some suites available for students with special or mobility needs. Leased accommodation is also available in the nearby seaside town of Portstewart, close to the campus, or in Coleraine itself. The University allocates and manages this accommodation.

JordanstownMost of the accommodation at our on-campus Student Village comprises five-bedroom en-suite apartments with broadband connection and shared kitchen/dining facilities. Self-contained apartments are also available on-campus. We provide adapted accessible accommodation for students with disabilities. There are also 170 purpose-designed apartments close to the Jordanstown campus.

MageeWe offer accommodation for over 600 students in our Student Village and our newly renovated Halls of Residence, Coppin House, both less than five minutes walk from the campus. All flats and apartments have access to unlimited free broadband. There are a number of self-contained units available for students who require additional space, privacy and independence. Adapted accessible accommodation is available for students with a disability.


Familysupport

Hit the ground running

Family provides an important element of stability at a time when many things are in a state of change – new friends, new responsibilities and new places can be overwhelming so the emotional back-up and support of family members can greatly assist the transition from home to university life.

Most students have a trouble-free time at university, but just in case problems do arise, you can be assured that they will have access to excellent support.

We ask you to work with us on ensuring that your family member spends their time wisely whilst they are at university. Good conduct on the part of all members of the University community is essential for the wellbeing and safety of others and for the maintenance of an environment in which students and staff can work and study effectively.


Belfast campusUniversity of UlsterYork StreetBelfastCo. AntrimBT15 1ED

Coleraine campusUniversity of UlsterCromore RoadColeraineCo. LondonderryBT52 1SA

Jordanstown campusUniversity of UlsterShore RoadNewtownabbeyCo. AntrimBT37 0QB

Magee campusUniversity of UlsterNorthland RoadLondonderryCo. LondonderryBT48 7JL

Your future, make it happen

[email protected] University of Ulster Undergrad Study @ulsterundergradwww.ulster.ac.uk/studyTel: 028 7012 3456

Documents

Going to university - A guide for families (University of Ulster)