Prepare to start your course

Bookmark the library website to explore opening hours, study space bookings, online resources and more at our four campus libraries.

Skills@library can help you with writing essays, referencing and managing your time.

Bookmark the IT website for 24/7 help, complete your IT induction and check our advice for bringing computers to the University.

Explore, download and log into the following tools: 

Minerva 

Find out more about Minerva, our Virtual Learning Environment (VLE).

Office 365 and OneDrive

Get free student Microsoft Office access. Learn how to set it up in your IT induction.

UniLeeds app 

Download the UniLeeds app for Apple or Android to access everyday essentials, such as your timetable.

PebblePad 

Teach yourself the basics of PebblePad, a tool that helps you plan, record, reflect on and evidence your learning and development.

Free mobile apps 

• Download Duo mobile security for Apple or Android to protect your university IT systems, such as email and Minerva logins.  
• Ask for help from the University’s Security team 24/7 through SafeZone.
• Get cheaper bus tickets and travel information from First Bus.

Use these online resources to practise your skills, ready for study:

• Flying Start resources can help you understand what it will be like studying at university
• develop online learning skills on the Preparing to Learn Online at University FutureLearn course
• check out Coursera and LinkedIn Learning to get a head start on your studies
• log into our online learning platforms using the library’s online learning page.

If you are a disabled student, register with Disability Services to access support and arrange adjustments or modifications to how you’re taught and assessed.  

You can register even if you haven’t yet decided to come to Leeds or had your place confirmed. 

• What to bring to uni
• What to bring: the alternative pre-Leeds shopping list
• What to bring as an international student
• 10 things you shouldn’t be without

Chat to our Link to Leeds ambassadors for help with what to bring if you’re moving from abroad. They’re international students who’ve already moved to Leeds. 

• Information about living in halls of residence
• Information about moving in and out of private accommodation
• Living at home and commuting to campus
• Moving to Leeds with your family
• Join the Commuters’ Society

• Check the preparing to live in Leeds pages when planning your journey to Leeds.
• Find out where to shop for food and essentials in Leeds.
• Read Samantha’s advice on getting started in Leeds with tips on banking options, useful apps and things to look out for in your first few weeks
• Read Bunmi’s advice on making the most of your experience as an international student
• Read student accounts on Moving to Leeds
• Read Wing Yan Lui’s (Cheryl) five ways to improve your English

If you’re an international student, sign up for International Orientation.

The programme includes: 

• our main international orientation talk, where you can connect with other new students
• free webinars and in-person sessions. Learn how to: 
  • open a bank account
  • register with a doctor
  • work in the UK
• social events during International Orientation week.

• Come and explore campus blog
• Places to relax and take a break on campus
• Top 20 Instagrammable spots on campus
• Step-free access routes on campus
• Cafés on campus
• Rock and Roll Refectory 
• 14 must-see pieces of art on campus

Plan where to go once you arrive in Leeds:

• 25 Instagram accounts to follow to discover more of Leeds
• Get outside in Leeds
• 30 things to do in Leeds
• Eight must-see locations in Yorkshire
• Best places to eat and drink in Leeds

• Visit the Leeds Sport website
• Visit The Edge website
• Join Get Out, Get Active
• Get involved in sport and activities for fun
• Aishwarya’s tips on staying fit and active in Leeds

• Apply for a buddy through the Buddy Scheme
• Visit Global Café
• Get tips for making friends when you move to university
• Discover over 300 clubs and societies
• Read LUU’s ultimate guide to clubs and societies
• Find more ways to meet people and get involved

• Learn what to do if you’re worried about the cost of living
• Five money management tips for students
• Three money-saving websites and apps every student should know about
• Learn more about funding and financial support for students
• Open a UK bank account

Instagram

• University of Leeds on Instagram
• Leeds University Union on Instagram
• Leeds Sport on Instagram
• Residence Life on Instagram
• Sustainability Services on Instagram

TikTok

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

Facebook

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

X

• University of Leeds students on X
• Leeds University Union on X
• University Libraries on X
• Global Community team on X (you can also join the Global Community Microsoft Teams channel)