Before you arrive

Start dates

Your start date will depend on the level or type of course you're studying. Start dates may have changed since you applied, so you must check information for your course. You are expected to be available to attend on-campus teaching from the start of your course. You need to live locally, engage in your studies and attend campus regularly to take part in classes. Your attendance in teaching activities will be recorded and monitored to support your success.

See the start dates

Stirling Essentials

Access Stirling Essentials, an on-line module to help you prepare for study at University. We recommend you work through this module before you arrive. Stirling Essentials will be available throughout your studies as it is the gateway to a wide range of advice and study skills resources.

• Undergraduate Stirling Essentials module
• Postgraduate Stirling Essentials module

Download the Stirling app

Get all your university services at your fingertips with the University of Stirling app. The app provides your personalised timetable and real-time, on-the-go, anytime information to support you during your time at Stirling. It's available free for all students.

If you are not able to access the University App on your device, you can use a web browser.

Download the app

IT equipment and digital skills

Make sure you have access to a laptop or computer as you require this to be able to study effectively on all our courses. We have laptops available for short and longer term loans. 

Read our guide on how to set up multi-factor authentication so you can access our online resources. 

You also need basic digital skills in using software such as Office 365. We offer workshops if you need to improve your skills. 

See our IT guidance and support available at Stirling

Arrange your accommodation

If you are studying on campus and haven’t already sorted out accommodation, on or off campus, you need to check out your accommodation options.

Organise your travel to campus

Don’t leave it to the last minute to work out how you’re getting to campus.

Make a list of what to pack

We’ve prepared a handy list with suggestions of what you need to bring with you. Try to be organised with your packing and just bring what you really need.

Check and update your vaccinations

Getting vaccinated is the best way to help protect yourself and others from a variety of diseases. NHS Scotland provide free vaccinations for:

• Coronavirus (COVID-19)
• Measles, mumps and rubella (MMR)
• Meningitis ACWY (MenACWY)
• Human papillomavirus (HPV)

To find out how to get any of these vaccines visit the NHS Inform website.

See how we can support you

Our Student Support Services team are always on hand to offer advice and guidance on a range of topics including money advice, support for disabled students and students with specific learning difficulties, as well as counselling and wellbeing support.

If you have a disability or specific learning difficulties for which you may need support please contact Student Support Services. See our Accessibility and inclusion information. There's also support information available for care experienced young people.

Choosing to become a student can have a big impact on your finances and you will want to be as prepared as possible.

Once you know what funding is available to help you through your studies, it is important to start thinking about what you will need to spend it on, and how far it will stretch.

Managing your money at university can be a challenge if you are away from home for the first time, managing SAAS or Student Finance payments (without spending the whole lot), or changing your employment to fit around your studies. It is therefore essential to plan ahead financially.

See our useful information on budgeting as well as advice and tips on managing your money.