Optional activities before you arrive

Use these free resources at your own pace to help you prepare for studying at Leeds.

• Skills to Succeed at University – a short online course. Learn how to plan your time, take clear notes and think through ideas step by step, all at your own pace.
• Flying Start – see what university learning is like and try out reading, writing and group-work tasks before you arrive.
• Preparing to Learn Online at University (FutureLearn) – find simple tips for studying on a screen and staying motivated.
• Coursera and LinkedIn Learning – pick short videos or courses in your subject to refresh what you know.
• Library online learning page – sign in with your Leeds details to explore more guides and tutorials.

Start building your Leeds community from day one.

• Clubs and societies – LUU runs 300+ groups for sport, music, gaming, volunteering and more.
• Buddy Scheme – get matched with another student who shares your interests and study level. Buddies meet up, swap tips and join free socials together.
• Global Café – every Monday excluding bank holidays. Drop in for free drinks, relaxed chat and new friends in our diverse community.
• Course and residence socials – your school, department and halls all run mixers, trips and study-buddy groups. Look out for email invites and posters when you arrive.
• Experiences and opportunities – find fun activities and new ways to get involved.
• Leeds and You events – for the full calendar of what’s on across campus and in the city.
• Find your people – explore all the ways to meet others and get involved at Leeds.

Instagram

• University of Leeds on Instagram
• Leeds University Union (LUU) on Instagram
• Residence Life on Instagram
• Student Welcome Team

TikTok

• University of Leeds on TikTok
• Leeds University Union on TikTok

Facebook

• Facebook group for current students
• Leeds University Union on Facebook

Protect yourself from common student scams targeting tuition fees, accommodation, and visas.

Once you're registered on Minerva, complete our Student Fraud Awareness Module and visit our fraud and scams page for essential safety tips, including the latest alerts, videos, and a quick quiz.

Find out what it’s really like to study at the University of Leeds by connecting with the students who know it best.

Our Link to Leeds ambassadors are from a range of countries and subject areas, and they are here to share their experiences with you.

You can connect with them in several ways:

• Chat online: Choose a student to talk to directly through the Meet our ambassadors page.
• Join live events: Take part in student-led webinars and live chats by visiting the Link to Leeds events page.
• Read student blogs: Get tips and insights on a range of topics by reading the latest Link to Leeds student blog posts.
• Follow on social media: See student life firsthand on the Link to Leeds Facebook and Link to Leeds Instagram.

Navigating life in the UK can have its complexities, but understanding a few key points can make the process much smoother.

If you have any questions, contact LUU Advice or the Student Information Service.

Age limits

• 18 plus to buy alcohol or tobacco, place bets or enter a casino.
• To legally prove you are 18+, original photographic government ID is required (student cards are not valid for this purpose).

Staying safe and legal

• Recreational drugs (including cannabis) and pepper spray are illegal.
• TV Licence needed if you watch live TV or BBC iPlayer in any room. For current pricing check on TV Licence website.
• Driving? You must have the right licence and insurance. Use the UK government’s “Driving in Great Britain on a non-GB licence” tool if yours was issued abroad.
• Keep left! Cars drive on the left-hand side. Use marked crossings and wait for green signals before you step out.

More details on licences, driving and UK laws: see our Understand UK laws and rules page.

Disability Services recommends academic support for disabled students and postgraduate researchers at the University.

You can declare a disability when you register as a student or using a form on the Disability Services page. If you do this, Disability Services will usually contact you directly, but you can also get in touch with them if you have any questions or need further support. 

You should also register with Disability Services if you had exam arrangements at school and would like to access them at Leeds.

If you're an international student, the meaning of the word ‘disability’ and the types of conditions it includes may be different from what you’re used to.  

Learn more about what is considered a disability in the UK and how Disability Services can support you.