Adapting to your new course

Here are five practical tips to guide you as you progress from your foundation year to a full‑time undergraduate course.

1. Prepare for your course

To understand what your new course covers, including its modules, take a look at the module and programme catalogue.

You can also get involved in a range of welcome activities before starting your undergraduate course. These can help you feel more organised for your first year and give you the chance to meet new people.

2. Acknowledge your strengths

Your life experiences, including those gained on your foundation year, are invaluable. Use these strengths to build confidence in your academic journey.

It’s normal to experience imposter syndrome when starting something new. Many students feel unsure about whether they “belong” at university, but these feelings don’t reflect your abilities or potential.

Take some time to reflect on your journey so far, and remind yourself of what you’ve already achieved to get here. Recognise that your unique background, skills and perspectives add value to your learning and the wider academic community.

3. Manage your time and stay organised

Balancing study with family, work and other responsibilities can be challenging, so effective time management and organisation are key:

• Establish a realistic study routine that fits around your existing commitments.
• Prioritise short, focused study sessions rather than long hours. These are often more productive.
• Break down large assignments into smaller, more manageable tasks.
• Explore digital tools to help you with notetaking and calendars to keep track of deadlines and commitments.
  • Microsoft 365 is available to all students and includes apps like Outlook, OneDrive, Word and Excel. You can explore the range of digital tools and get support with these through IT induction and digital support page.
• Create a dedicated study space at home. Even a quiet corner can help you focus.
• Let family or housemates know your study times to minimise interruptions and explore campus to find study spaces that suit you between lectures.

If you’re a mature student, you can also access our Mature Student Academic Skills Resource, which offers tailored guidance on time management, group work and effective study strategies.

4. Look after yourself

Balancing study, work, family life and self‑care is essential for staying motivated and resilient.

As an undergraduate student, you’ll have access to a wide range of academic and wellbeing support. If you ever need someone to talk to, your Academic Personal Tutor and student support contacts in your school are here to help.

Remember to acknowledge your progress along the way. Celebrating your achievements, no matter how small, can boost your confidence. Share them with friends, family or teaching staff, or keep a journal to look back on during more challenging moments.

5. Seek support when you need it

Understanding the support available to you and feeling confident to use it can make a real difference to your university experience.

Explore our support for new undergraduates page to familiarise yourself with the support services available to you.

Your peers are also a valuable source of support. Building connections with other students can provide understanding, encouragement and shared experiences.

Your relationship with your Academic Personal Tutor is an important part of your academic journey. Use your first meeting to introduce yourself, reflect on your progress so far and discuss any areas you’d like to develop in the year ahead.

When you start your new course, your new school will invite you to its induction sessions. These are different from the induction you attended during your foundation year, and you’re expected to attend. They’ll introduce you to how the school works, the support available and give you the chance to meet the students you’ll be studying with.

Don’t forget to have fun and take care of yourselves. This is the next chapter of your university experience, so make it a good one!