Starting university is an exciting time. You'll make new friends, learn about a subject you're passionate about and open the door to a range of new opportunities. Of course, it's only natural to want a bit of guidance too. We’ve put together a collection of our top tips for the first two weeks at university.
By Editorial Team. Published 10 September 2025. Updated 2 September 2026.
We asked students on Instagram for their tips on surviving the first two weeks of uni and their answers threw up some common themes and ideas which we’ve unpacked below in more detail.
Take it one day at a time
Starting university can potentially feel a little overwhelming, especially when you consider all of the changes ahead of you. New people, new places, new living arrangements, potentially a new city to call home. It can be a lot.
One of the best pieces of advice our students suggested was to take things one day at a time. Give yourself the time and space to settle into your new surroundings. You don’t have to have everything worked out on day one, and remember you aren’t alone; everyone starting university for the first time is in the same position as you and likely feels the same.
Explore your campus
Take some time to get to know your campus. Knowing where you need to go during your first couple of weeks at university can be a big help. Take a walk around the campus and find the rooms your lectures will take place, explore the library, locate the breakout areas and cafes and see what else is on offer.
Our campus teams are always on hand to help you if you need it too. Don’t be afraid to ask where something is – it’s what we’re here for.
Attend your induction events
Induction events are there to help you get to grips with your new surroundings and provide key information about your course and the services you can access. They’re also a great way to meet the people you’ll be studying alongside and potentially provide an opportunity for you to make new friends. Which brings us on to our next important point.
Say hello
Meeting new people can feel intimidating and is a worry many students share. The best advice we have is to be bold. Offering a smile and a simple hello to someone sitting next to you at an induction event can be enough. Don’t be afraid to tell people if you feel nervous either, it might not only put yourself at ease, but also another student who likely shares some of your worries.
Choose what you attend
It’s natural to want to get involved with events and activities, but you don’t have to attend absolutely everything. The first few weeks of university can be packed with a range of events, social meetings and activities, but you don’t need to attend them all. Choose the things which interest you most and don’t be afraid to prioritise your own needs. It’s fine to opt for an early night with a book or a movie night on the sofa. This downtime can help you recuperate and means you can avoid feeling exhausted within the first couple of weeks.
Build a routine
Studying at university might look a lot different to what you’ve experienced in the past. You’ll have more responsibility for managing your studies. The first couple of weeks at university can be a good time to think about your routine and can help build good habits that will help you throughout your course.
Within the first couple of weeks at university, it’s important to:
- Familiarise yourself with your timetable and any upcoming deadlines and important dates.
- Stay up to date with any communication about your course.
- Start your assigned reading.
- Keep your notes organised from the minute you start to avoid unnecessary organisation at a later date.
You don’t need a complex study plan. A calendar and to-do list can be enough, especially when you’re just getting started, but putting these small things in place can help when it comes to exam preparation and study.
Keep an eye on your money
The first couple of weeks at university can be costly. There are social events, coffees, cocktails, decor for your room, outfits for the weekend. The list goes on.
Creating a budget can be beneficial. Work out how much you have available and what you need for essentials, then decide how much you can spend on socialising and other activities. You don’t have to avoid having fun. The aim is to know what you can realistically afford. Check out our money management tips for students to help your money go further.
Take care of yourself
Some students find the first few weeks at university an emotional time. You might feel homesick, anxious, lonely or just exhausted by the intensity of starting university and navigating all of the changes ahead of you. It’s crucial you make time for things that help you feel like yourself. Get enough sleep, eat properly, exercise and take regular breaks from studying.
Ask for help if you need it. Universities have support services available to help students with a wide range of academic, personal and practical issues.
Remember it takes time
We wanted to finish with one of the replies we received when we initially asked for help in putting together our advice. One reply stood out and provided a solid list of practical tips for surviving your first two weeks at university.
- Say hi to strangers - everyone wants new friends right now.
- Say yes to new experiences.
- Be brave, make the first move.
- Find your safe study/social spot.
- Fun is great but don't skip class.
- Ask for help early - it's strength, not weakness.
- Build a simple routine.
- Budget smart = stress less.
- Celebrate every small win.
- Be unapologetically yourself.
- Remember: you deserve to be here.
Ultimately, there’s no right way to spend your first two weeks at university. Focus on getting to know your university, meeting people, establishing a manageable routine and giving yourself time to adjust.
Need more advice? Take a look at our . It has everything you need to start your journey with confidence, including a useful checklist to get organised as you settle in.
