Getting started

Before you arrive

Before you start your course at University College Birmingham, check this list to make sure that you have done all of the things on it that apply to you. Some of them you should have done already.

• If you have a medical condition that might, in your opinion, affect your academic performance or have a specific learning difficulty such as dyslexia, you should have already contacted the Disability Support team located in Baskerville House (email: evidence@ucb.ac.uk)
• If you are a full-time student on a course which will bring you into contact with young children and/or vulnerable adults, then you will need to complete a criminal record check (known properly as a Disclosure and Barring Service check) before you can undertake a work placement. This is a statutory requirement, designed to protect children and/or vulnerable adults. You should have received details from University College Birmingham of what you need to do but if you have not please contact the Placement Office on 0121 604 1000 ext 2398.
• If you are a student on a course subject to Fitness to Practice requirements, you will also be required to complete a criminal record check and should bring with you any documents necessary for this.
• Check the induction and registration dates and times which have been sent to you.
• Ensure that you complete and return any forms as requested by University College Birmingham as soon as you are able.

Now you have arrived

• It is essential that you register with a doctor and/or dentist in the area where you are living while at University College Birmingham. Information regarding registering with a doctor and/or dentist is available either from the University College Birmingham Nurse, the Student Services Unit, or in the case of residents of The Maltings, in the information pack provided to you upon arrival. University College Birmingham works closely with the Halcyon Medical Centre located in Birmingham City Centre. Representatives from the practice will be available to discuss registration at various events after you have arrived.
• Become a member of the National Union of Students (NUS). Membership is free, although a charge entitles you to admission at concessionary rates to theatres, cinemas and other places of entertainment, reduced price travel on national and regional coach, bus and rail networks, and many other privileges.
• Make the most of your time at the University College Birmingham by visiting the Guild of Students Fresher’s Fayre held in the Maltings sports hall at the start of term. This will introduce you to the numerous clubs and societies that exist at the university, along with other organisations that provide services to students. If you are seeking part-time work, it will also be a chance for you to find out about HIRED and to meet some employers.
• If you will be living out of walking distance from University College Birmingham, you might want to obtain a season ticket for travel on trains and/or buses in the Birmingham area. If you are aged between 16 and 18, then you will be eligible for the Transport for West Midlands 16-18 Photocard. If you are aged 19 or over, Transport fór West Midlands offers student-rate term passes for use on the bus, train and metro. Further information and ticket prices can be found here.