Late arrivals: What to do if you miss the start of term
Missed your course induction, Welcome Week or first week at Kingston University? Find out what you need to do to catch up.
When do I need to arrive on campus?
If you are starting a course at Kingston University in 2026, you should arrive on campus by 25 September. If you arrive after the 25 September 2026, you will be a "late arrival".
If you miss your course induction, Welcome Week or first week of teaching, don't panic. We are here to support you, but it is your responsibility to catch up on what you have missed.
On this page, you will find information and checklists on what to do if you join us after the start of term. You can also watch the video on this page for a summary of the tasks you need to complete if you arrive late to uni.
Do I need to enrol if I arrive late?
Complete enrolment as soon as possible
If you have not done so already, it's really important that you complete the enrolment process. Being fully enrolled ensures you are officially a Kingston University student and gives you access to all the systems and support you need to succeed.
If you have queries about enrolment, please send an email to [email protected] or call us on tel: 0800 048 3334. You can also visit the Information Centre at Penrhyn Road or Kingston Hill campus.
Are there tasks to complete if I arrive late?
Checklist for academic tasks
There are a few important academic tasks you should complete as soon as possible to help you catch up and get started on your course. Use the checklist below to complete the relevant tasks:
Contact your course leader
You missed some key sessions during Welcome Week – make sure you catch up with your course leader. If you're not sure who your course leader is you can find out on the course page on Canvas. You can visit your course leader during their office hours, or email them.
You might also want to check if there is anything specific you might need for your course such as PPE, uniforms or other safety equipment.
Access your teaching timetable
Look up your teaching timetable.
You'll need to login using your Kingston email address ([email protected]) and the password you use to access OSIS.
Download the SEAtS app
You will need to register your attendance in classes when teaching starts. Ensure you know how to check in to classes using your ID card or SEAtS app. You should also read the attendance policy (AP15).
Explore Canvas
Access Canvas (the virtual learning environment). You will be able to find all of your course information, modules, reading lists and more.
Complete the Welcome to Kingston module
Remember to complete the Welcome to Kingston Canvas module – it contains everything you need to know about the University outside of your course
Attend a library introduction
The library is a key part to your academic careers at Kingston. Make sure you attend a catch-up session, which you can do via the Future Skills Platform (the University's event system).
Checklist for life, health and wellbeing tasks
To help you settle in and access support when you need it, there are a few important life, health and wellbeing tasks you should complete. Use the checklist below to complete the relevant tasks:
Register with a doctor
You should register with a local doctor (GP surgery) as soon as possible, if you have moved to Kingston (or just away from home). Make sure you do this now – don't wait until you need a doctor as it may delay you accessing key services and support.
The University has an onsite GP surgery – you can register online with our GP surgery or view a full list of GP surgeries on the NHS website.
Register for disability and mental health support
If you have a diagnosed disability or mental health condition, you should register with the Disability and Mental Health team. They can support you to ensure you have the right support in place to succeed in your studies. Visit the MyKingston website to read more about disability and mental health support.
Check your funding
If you are a home student, check your Student Finance application. Make sure they have the correct course and university listed for you – this will help to ensure you receive your funding as quickly as possible after enrolment is completed.
Manage your finances
Check out MyKingston for information on opening bank accounts, managing your money and financial support.
Find out about council tax
Full-time students are exempt from paying council tax, but you may need to provide proof depending on where you live. Read more about council tax on MyKingston.
How can I find out what's happening at uni if I arrive late?
Stay informed and get involved
Even if you arrive after the start of term, there are plenty of ways to keep up to date with what's happening at Kingston University. By reading your emails regularly, exploring student activities and engaging with student support services, you will be able to stay informed about uni life.
Check your emails
Kingston University will communicate with you through your University email.
You should make sure you check your inbox regularly to ensure you don't miss out on key information about your course, opportunities and other important stuff.
Explore events, societies and sports
You will have lots of opportunities to do things you're interested in, try something new or develop skills.
You can find all sorts of opportunities on our Future Skills platform or why not browse the Union of Kingston Students A-Z of sports clubs and societies?
Where can I get help and advice if I arrive late?
We are here to support you
Whether you have a specific a question to ask or just want to speak to someone who's been there done that, we're here to help.
Visit the Information Centre
If you missed your course induction, Welcome Week or your first week of classes, the Information Centre can help you access the support and information you need.
Visit a Help Desk in any Kingston University Library or contact us at [email protected].
Ask the Kingston Bot
For instant answers to your burning questions, just ask our friendly Kingston Bot anything you need to know. Click on the orange icon at the bottom of the screen to open the Kingston Bot and start chatting.
Send us an email
If you have queries and want to get in touch, send us an email at [email protected].
Chat with a current student
Start a convo with our current students to find out all about what life is really like at Kingston.
Get IT support
From connecting to the WiFi to accessing software, the University has a whole range of services you can take advantage of. Read more about IT support for students.
Late arrivals FAQs
Frequently asked questions about arriving late
If you are unable to join us at the start of term, take a look at the frequently asked questions below. The FAQs explain what to do if you arrive late, how to catch up on important information and where to get support to help you start your Kingston University journey successfully.