College to uni: seven key differences to look out for

Here are some of the key differences you'll be facing when you make the exciting leap to uni, with advice from university and school experts. 

You can get really on top of things by also reading our guide to what you need to do before you go to university. 

1. Freedom

Freedom is your new best friend when you move away to university – but all that independence could also become your enemy if you're not careful.

You have the opportunity to choose the way you live and study. Just make sure that you leave room for a degree in the midst of everything at university, try to find a balance between work and play – and keep on top of your budget! 

"It is very easy to spend a lot of money going out and socialising, especially during Freshers Week," says Sarah Marshall, sixth-form pastoral co-ordinator at Fakenham Sixth Form. "Make sure you create a budget and weekly spending limit before you go and try not to go over your limit."

• Read more on The Student Room: choosing a student bank account 

2. Coping with information overload

Having spent the past couple of years working towards A-levels or other qualifications, you may feel you deserve a rest. However, you'll find that uni moves at speed – rapidly covering different subject areas.

Doing just a little prep before you arrive can help make the leap into uni-level study feel a little easier.

"Look at the course reading list and select at least one of the books to read," says Sarah. "Your local library should be able to get you a copy if you do not want to buy one.

"Also, don't buy any textbooks as the majority are now online or you can get copies from the university library."

3. Staying self-motivated 

When it comes to lectures and seminars, no-one is going to make sure you're slumped in a seat at 9am on a Monday morning. You don't have to answer to anyone but yourself, so you'll need to take responsibility early on for staying motivated.

"University offers much more independence, so it's important to keep on top of your coursework, attend all your lectures, and actively participate in seminars," says David Handy, director of admissions, marketing and progression at King Edward VI College Stourbridge. "Creating a schedule that includes your classes, study time, deadlines, social activities, and any part-time work will help you stay on track.

"And don’t forget, it’s perfectly okay to ask for help – whether it's from your lecturers for academic support or from the university’s student services for personal guidance."

Read more on The Student Room: 10 things students weren't expecting when they started uni 

4. Managing your workload

You might be surprised at how little contact time you have at uni. You may only have a weekly tutorial on top of a few lectures – but there's a reason for this.

Lecturers expect you to be doing a lot of the legwork yourself and reading throughout the term, instead of cramming just before exams. 

"Think of university as a full-time job," says David. "By dedicating at least 37 hours per week to your classes, seminars, and study time, you’re setting yourself up for success. This approach will help you stay on top of your workload and make the most of your university experience."

David shares a few tips on developing good study habits from the very start of your time at university.

• Summarise your notes after lectures
• Plan regular revision sessions
• Break down tasks into smaller, manageable chunks (to make large assignments less overwhelming)
• Make use of university resources like the library, study groups, and academic workshops

"Staying organised and proactive in your studies will help you keep up with the workload and reduce stress," he adds.

5. Domesticity

If you want clean clothes, food on the table or a room you're not embarrassed about, you'll have to brush up on your domestic skills. 

Alana, a law student from Glasgow, recommends knowing exactly what washing powder looks like as her flatmate discovered she'd been washing her clothes purely in fabric softener for the first month of living in halls...
 

6. Endless opportunities

Most universities say that if you can't find an activity on offer, you can start it yourself – but you will be swamped with clubs, societies and sports teams getting you to sign-up.

"Go along to the Society Fair during Freshers Week," says Sarah. "All the different clubs and societies at the university will be there with a stand and you can find out more about them and enrol. Also, they have freebies to give away with is always a bonus!"

Even if you're the only one in your flat who wants to try something, don't let a lack of company stop you. "University is about so much more than just your studies," says David. "It's a fantastic chance to explore new interests and develop skills through extra-curricular activities, clubs and societies.

"To make the most of these opportunities, start by checking out the various opportunities available at your university. Attend the Freshers Fayre and sign up for activities that catch your interest.

"Getting involved in extra-curriculars is a great way to make new friends, build your CV, and balance your academic life. Whether it's sports, arts, volunteering, or student leadership, participating in these activities will enrich your university experience and help you develop a well-rounded skill set of skills."

7. 24/7 socialising

University offers you the chance to meet people from all over the world – it can feel like a constant social whirlwind and often takes time for you to feel settled.

But most people have at least a little bit nerves about making new friends at the start. Remember, it will happen, and you can make make friends more easily if you're approachable from the outset. "Take a doorstop with you for moving in day," says Sarah. "If you prop the door of your room open, you will get to meet other students as they walk past."

When you are going out, define your own boundaries. You dont have to go out for every single event. "Set yourself an alcohol intake limit so that you don't drink too much and end up in hospital with alcoholic poisoning," says Sarah. "This is again, very easy during Freshers Week when the pubs and clubs are holding students events with cheap drinks and 2 for 1 offers."

"Don't forget to look after yourself," adds David. "Eat well, exercise, and get plenty of sleep."

• Read more on The Student Room:
  63 things students wish they'd known before uni
  Students describe the move from school to uni