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What should I pack for University?

You will need to bring quite a few essentials with you.

We’ve put together some considerations to help you feel more confident that you’ve remembered everything!

Medications

Pack any prescription medications you require, along with a copy of your prescriptions. If you have any specific medical conditions, bring relevant medical records or information

Clothing and shoes

Pack a variety of outfits suitable for different weather conditions and occasions. Include formal attire for events like interviews or presentations. If you want to iron your clothes, check if your accommodation provides an iron.

Leisure and entertainment items

Pack any books, games, or hobbies that you enjoy during your leisure time. Consider items like sports equipment, musical instruments, or art supplies

Electronics

Bring your laptop, phone, chargers, and any other devices you may need for studying, entertainment, or communication.

If you’re going to watch or stream live TV (or use BBC on demand) you will need a TV licence

Adapter and power strips

If you’re moving from a different country, bring an adapter to fit UK power outlets. A power strip can also be useful to charge multiple devices

Personal items

Don’t forget personal items that hold sentimental value or provide comfort, such as photographs, favourite books, or a stuffed animal!

Personal Documents

Make sure you have everything you need to enrol on your course when you get there. It is also good to have your bank cards, passport, driving license (if you have them) and all your student finance documents

Documents and references

Carry important documents like your national insurance number, NHS number, and any references or letters of recommendation that may be useful

Study materials

If you have a reading list or recommended textbooks, consider bringing them along. You can also purchase or borrow them from the library later if needed 

Stationery supplies

Include pens, notebooks, folders, sticky notes, and other stationery items to keep organised and take notes during classes

Enough money for few weeks

You don’t need this as cash but make sure your bank account has enough money in it to cover your first few weeks. Your Student Finance will normally be paid soon after you have enrolled but in case of any delays* it is good to make sure you have some money available.

First aid kit

Include basic first aid supplies such as plasters, antiseptic cream, pain relievers, and any other medications or items you may need in case of minor injuries or illnesses 

*If you have problems getting your finance through then make an appointment with Student Support at Norwich University of the Arts and they will be able to help you. 

Specifics for your accommodation

Remember to check any specific guidelines or recommendations provided by your accommodation before packing to ensure you’re well-prepared for your specific situation.

Bedding

Find out if your room will have a single, double or ¾ sized bed before you arrive and bring the right sized bedding with you.

Coat Hangers

Sometimes the previous tenant will leave coat hangers behind when they leave a property but other times they will remove them. Bring a few with you to make sure you can hang up your clothes.

Towels and toiletries

Pack towels, a toiletry bag with essentials like toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, conditioner, and any other personal hygiene items you regularly use.

A lamp

Makes reading in bed and working at night easier.

Can I decorate my room at uni?

Check with your landlord or look in your contract as to what decoration you are permitted to put up (and with what!).

What do I need for the Kitchen at University?

Your household will probably need to provide their own kitchen equipment other than the white goods. It might be a good idea to discuss the list of items that you will need for the kitchen between you so that you don’t end up with six kettles and microwaves! You could split the more expensive items between you and perhaps all bring one or two of them each. This is a good way to reduce the amount of things you need to get in advance, and will help save storage space as well as money!

Suggested kitchen items

  • Cups
  • Cutlery
  • Kitchen knives
  • Crockery set
  • Tin opener
  • Saucepans
  • Frying pan/Wok
  • Baking tray
  • Oven dish
  • Colander/Sieve
  • Measuring jug
  • Cheese grater
  • Bottle opener/ corkscrew
  • Big serving bowl

Should I do a food shop before or after I arrive at University?

You might want to bring food and snacks for the first few days, to take the stress out of getting set up in a new place. Most people do the big food shop once they’ve moved in, which means less stuff to carry in the initial move in, and nothing gets spilled on the way. Some people prefer to bring food with them, which can mean less to worry about, and will give you more free time that evening to get settled.

Either way, there are plenty of supermarkets around the city, so one is never far.

All of the major chains have outlets and if you need information on the location of a particular one please contact Student Support who will be able to help you.

While you’re at the supermarket, don’t forget:

Laundry supplies

Bring laundry detergent, fabric softener, and a laundry bag or basket for storing your dirty clothes and carrying them to the laundry room.

Cleaning Products

It will be your responsibility to keep the house clean once you move in. This means buying the products that you will need to do this. 

UCAS also have a huge list of things you might want to consider, if you still feel like you’ve forgotten something!

Advice from students

Our recent BA (Hons) Fashion Communication and Promotion graduate Kerenza talks about what she thinks you need to bring.  

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