New students guide
Congratulations - you’ve made it to the very start of your Salford journey! There’s a lot to take in when you start university. That’s why we’ve put everything you need to know during your first few weeks here in one place. We recommend you get started by following the steps below.
Step 1: new starter checklist
Now you're officially a Salford student, where should you start? Use this checklist to ensure you're ready for this new chapter and to help you settle into your studies. Don't worry, it's quick and easy to follow. We've also separated the list into sections, so you can tackle one thing at a time.
Before you start
- Register early and be entered into our prize draw! That's before 7 September (for home students) and 14 September 2026 (for international students). Even if you miss the prize deadline, you should register before induction activities start. If you don’t, you might have delays with starting your course and receiving funding (if eligible).
- Register with our Disability Inclusion Service (DIS) if you have a disability, long-term condition or learning difficulty. DIS can help you get the right support.
- Check your induction schedule - induction activities are essential to attend so you're ready to start your course.
- Check you're up-to-date with your vaccinations. Make sure you have received your MMR, MenACWY and HPV vaccines to help protect yourself and others against potentially serious illnesses including meningitis, measles and cervical cancer.
- Get financially ready by reading our handy guide to budgeting and managing your money.
- Purchase a TV licence if you watch live TV on any device, or if you watch programmes on the BBC iPlayer.
- If you have a child or are about to become a parent, get familiar with our support for students with families.
- Select the Welcome Week events you'll attend.
- Plan your travel to campus. There are lots of sustainable options to get to every campus.
First few days on campus
- Check your timetable weekly so you know when your classes are and if any changes have been made.
- Check into your classes - once classes have started, register your attendance for all lectures and seminars via Study Goal. Remember: you must not ask someone to sign in on your behalf or sign in for someone else. This is a breach of the Student Code of Conduct and if you do, you will face the Student Misconduct Procedure.
- Register with our on-campus GP if you've moved to campus or live close by.
- Download SafeZone - this free safety app ensures you can contact Security and have access to emergency aid as soon as you need it.
- Like keeping active? Get your membership sorted at the Sports Centre.
- Check if you're eligible for a donor-funded scholarship from 7 September 2026. Scholarships offer financial support and mentoring opportunities during your studies.
- Bookmark your Student Handbook - it has everything you'll need on your student journey.
Step 2: Plan your Welcome Week
Welcome events start from 1 September 2026 with events taking place across all three campuses and online to help you settle in and make connections. From large-scale events such as a roller rink and Welcome Fair, to smaller events such as craft workshops, you'll be able to try all sorts of activities, pick up a new hobby (or rediscover an old one), and explore different social groups that you're interested in.
Step 3: settle in and make connections
University isn’t just about studying. It’s the time to make connections and develop your personal skills. There are lots of ways you can make connections throughout the academic year - find everything you need to get started below.
Step 4: study essentials
Now’s the time to develop or build upon your academic skills, form effective study habits and make the most of our development opportunities.
Remember, university isn't just about studying. Finding a balance between your other priorities will help you reach your goals whilst having fun, taking care of yourself, learning and developing great foundations for your career. It can feel overwhelming at first but, if you take some time to read the information on the page below, you’ll be on the road to success.
Step 5: Keep up to date
There's lots going on throughout the academic year. To keep up to date with the latest news, opportunities and events make sure you:
- Read your weekly student newsletter - it's sent to your student email every Thursday!
- Keep an eye on Blackboard and the Student Hub for latest updates about your course and campus.
- Follow the current student social media accounts. We're on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and X.
