Hey, Coventry University Student Ambassador here! 👋
Starting university can be a mix of excitement and anxiety, but don't worry! Your worries are valid, and I'll do my best to address them all 🤗
Regarding your student finance, you can
report any changes in your circumstances, such as:
•
Changing your course, university, or college
•
Changing your name or marital status
•
Changing your Tuition Fee Loan amount
So, whether you get into your firm/insurance choices or not, just update your details with Student Finance and you'll be fine! The current timescale for responses is around 19 working days and you can check their guidance
here for any updates.
For student accommodation, universities usually have different deadlines for applications, but they anticipate delays and often have plenty of rooms available. It's also very important to check the student accommodations before applying to make sure its what you're looking for as you'll have to sign a contract. At Cov Uni, we offer virtual tours which can be very useful if you're living far away. If you're still concerned, try calling the universities you're interested in to ask about their deadlines and policies for late applications.
From my friends' experiences, renting a room or sharing accommodation often works out better after the first year as you might find friends who also may be looking to share. Feeling safe and comfortable in your accommodation is important for a smooth transition to university and peace of mind during your studies. Renting a spare room could be an option, but it usually involves sharing communal areas, which might not suit you. Private accommodation or university-recognized accommodations might be more suitable.
Regarding your religious beliefs, university experiences can vary and you might find roommates you really connect with! If you come across any disruptive students, every university has procedures to handle such situations. You could also consider studio accommodations to avoid communal spaces and ensure a more private living space. At Cov Uni, we offer contracts ranging from 39 to 43 weeks, and you can always choose different accommodations after that. I wouldn't suggest taking a gap year just for accommodation purposes as I think you're likely to find a suitable place, even if it's not university-associated 🤞You can also explore normal studio renting near campus. Check out
UniHomes for more insights on available accommodations aswell.
I hope this helps! Everyone has concerns when starting university, but prioritize your well-being and take your time, I'm sure you'll find a convenient place to stay. Best of luck with your further studies!
Dorna | Coventry University Student Ambassador