Student support
At Kingston we do everything we can to make sure you get all the support you need, including study support and resources. If you need any advice before you arrive, just contact us and we'll do our best to help.
If you're an international student, get in touch with the International Office directly if you have any queries.
Practical help
- Where can I find out more about accommodation?
Whether you're applying for a place in halls of residence or want to live independently, the University's Accommodation Services should be your first stopping point. Read more.
- I'd like to get a part-time job while I'm at Kingston. Where should I go?
The Careers Service has plenty of advice about job hunting both before and after you graduate. Once you've enrolled you'll be able to access the JobShop – a database of hundreds of part-time vacancies. You might even want to start working at the University, perhaps as a student ambassador or in one of the Students' Union bars/shops.
- Will I still be able to get a job if I'm an international student?
Most students in the UK have immigration permission which allows them to work during their studies. However, the rules have recently changed on number of hours students can work. Read more or download UKCISA's PDF guide.
- Does the University provide childcare facilities?
Yes, we have our own nursery for the children of Kingston University students and staff. It caters for children from the age of two until they start reception class. Read more.
Will I be able to register with a doctor when I arrive at Kingston?
The Fairhill Medical Practice (our on-site health centre) provides a range of healthcare services for students during term-time and at local branch surgeries during vacations.
The University also offers a range of wellbeing services, including complementary therapies and counselling. Read more.
- Can I still use the Fairhill Medical Practice if I'm an international student?
The Fairhill Medical Practice is run by the National Health Service (NHS), which is a free healthcare service. If you are a full-time international student and are here for six months or longer, you will be entitled to NHS care. Simply register with the Fairhill Medical Practice during the welcome and orientation week (it is not necessary to get private medical insurance for the duration of your studies here).
- Are there places to buy food on the University campuses?
Yes, you'll be able to buy freshly-made breakfasts, lunches and snacks from our on-campus Foodstores.
- What if I have financial difficulties while I'm studying?
Our Student Funding Service is always available if you need advice. You'll also often spot our money advisers (the 'money doctors') around campus. Read more.
- What if I need help with a disability?
Our Disability and Dyslexia Support Service will be happy to help. The service co-ordinates a range of support arrangements and resources to make sure all students benefit fully from their time at Kingston University. Plus you can download the Disabled Student Guide (PDF) for more detailed information.
- What if I have a problem during my time at Kingston?
The Student Affairs Office makes sure all students at Kingston University are treated fairly, no matter what your gender, age, colour, racial background or sexual orientation. It will also support you if you have any problems while you're here or want to make a complaint. Read more.
Living in Kingston
- What faith groups are available at Kingston?
Faith-based student societies include the Hindu Society, the Christian Union, the Muslim Society and the Sikh Society. The Chaplaincy is open to students whatever their beliefs and has contacts with many other local faith leaders. Read more.
- What does the Students' Union do?
Kingston University Students' Union (KUSU) is a student body that organises social events and activities throughout the year, including Freshers' Week. It is also a source of independent advice and support for our students. Read more.
- I'm a mature student. Where can I meet other students the same age?
Mature students are an important part of the Kingston University community – in 2009 37% of our students were at least 22 years old on entry (21% were 25 years old or over). To help you meet other people in a similar situation to yourself, we run a mature students’ forum to provide ongoing peer-to-peer support. You'll also have access to an online version of the forum for advice and networking.
- What sporting facilities will I find at Kingston?
The Sports and Recreation Service provides a range of facilties, including grass pitches, tennis/netball courts, a 65-station gym and a new sports pavilion, plus a Sports Performance Programme to help talented athletes. The University Fitness Centre also offers a range of aerobic and dance classes. Read more or watch a video about the sporting facilities you could get involved in:
Are you a mature student?
We know that coming to university as a mature student can be a very different experience from arriving direct from school or college. Whether you want to forward your career or explore an area of interest, we will support your specific needs. You might find these links useful:
- Funding for students with dependents – including the Parents Learning Allowance, Childcare Grant and tax credits
- Kingston University Nursery – for the children of Kingston University students and staff
- Term dates – check when most new students start their studies
- Academic Skills Centres (PDF) – turn to our site-based centres if you need extra help returning to study
- Wellbeing services – we offer a range of health and counselling services, including stress management, self development and personal performance coaching
What our students say
"I came to Kingston University as a 23- year-old mature student. At first, I didn’t like the moniker of 'mature' student, but it has never really affected me or how I've integrated into University or the lifestyle!"
Paul, Media and Cultural Studies student
"When I first started I was nervous. I wondered if people would treat me differently, since most of them had just left high school. But the friends I have made have been amazing."
Robyn, Business Management student
"As a mature student I quickly realised that I was the only one who cared about my age. Nobody around me even noticed, and there's also a big mix of cultures on our course – it's a very open atmosphere."
Tabitha, Illustration and Animation student
Useful links
"I got lots of advice from the careers centre, including a CV workshop."
Marketa, Sociology and Business
student
"There is loads of space to work, relax, grab some food – or all three at once!"
Harriette, Geography student
"The Disability and Dyslexia team is very helpful, and can arrange one-on-one consultations and help with applying for the disabled students allowance."
Rebecca, Illustration and Animation student