Helping them prepare for university

We know there is a lot to do when your child is getting ready to attend university and it can feel difficult to keep track of everything they need to do to be prepared.

We’re on hand to help you know how to help them so they can start their new chapter with confidence.

Here are some ways you can help them to be ready for their first term:

Paperwork

It's important your child completes any outstanding requirements related to their offer. Whether they need to provide evidence of certain qualifications or complete a DBS check, ensure they've finished any tasks to help prevent potential delays or complications at enrolment. We will send out reminder emails with advice on how to meet any requirements.

Banking

Help your child to find the best student bank account to fit their needs. It’s worth comparing different banks to see which offers the best deals – ask them to provide your child with information about overdrafts, savings accounts, and managing their loans. Most banks will require proof of student status, which your child can download from our student portal after they enrol.

Accommodation

If your child is allocated a place in Halls, we’ll email their date and time for moving in. If your child is moving into private accommodation, this may be their first time living independently so give them as much advice as possible on sharing bills, keeping up with payments, and budgeting for all their outgoings. From clothes to crockery, this is also the time to start helping them pack their essentials before moving into their new home.

Support and Safety

We know that it can be worrying when your child first leaves home. The health and wellbeing of our students is a priority, and we have measures in place so they can study and live safely and securely. We use the SafeZone app for students to request help such as first aid or security assistance. We also have our Advice Zone, both online and on campus, to assist students with a variety of different problems.

Transport and Travel

We have five campuses across three locations in South Wales, but we are one University. All USW campuses have great transport links so it’s worth checking how they will get both to their campus as well as back home. With trains linking Cardiff, Newport, and Pontypridd, it’s worth looking at a Railcard to reduce travel costs – especially if they don’t have access to a vehicle.

Health and Wellbeing

There is a network of people at USW ready to help support your child, whatever the problem might be. We care about our students and so supporting all their health and wellbeing needs is very important to us.

From our USW Health Team to our Mental Wellbeing and Disability Advice Team, we have various confidential support resources on hand for your child both online and on campus. We’re always here to listen, help and offer advice to make sure they have the best university experience possible.