Fresher’s Week 101: Everything You Need to Know Before You Arrive

Starting university is an exciting yet transformative experience, and Freshers’ Week marks the beginning of this new chapter. This week is filled with introductions, events, and essential activities designed to help you settle into university life. From making new friends to exploring the campus and getting to know your course structure, Freshers’ Week is all about building a solid foundation for your time at university. 

Whether you are adjusting to life away from home or just getting to grips with academic expectations, this week offers a perfect introduction to what’s ahead. This blog will give you an idea of what the Freshers’ week is all about and what you can expect. 

What Is A Freshers Week?

A Fresher Week, also called Welcome Week or Orientation Week, marks the beginning of university life for new students, featuring a packed schedule of introductions, social events, and practical orientations. This initial week is designed to help new students settle in, meet new friends, explore the campus, and ease into both academic and social aspects of college life.

When to Expect Fresher’s Week in 2025?

If you are preparing to move abroad to study this September, the Fresher’s Week at university usually takes place one week before the official start of the academic term. For most UK universities, this means it falls in the first half of September through early October 2025.

• Move-in weekends are often scheduled just before Fresher’s Week begins, giving students a couple of days to settle into their accommodation.
• The week itself lasts 5–7 days, packed with social events, academic inductions, and admin tasks.
• Classes usually begin immediately after Fresher’s Week ends, so it acts as a transition period between arrival and the start of academic life.

For international students, some universities also run pre-arrival or international welcome days a little earlier, often in late August or very early September, to help them adjust before the main Fresher’s Week.

A Glimpse Into What Fresher’s Week Looks Like

Fresher’s Week is an exciting time designed especially for international students who are new to the university and often the country too. It’s the perfect opportunity to explore student life, understand university culture, get an idea of how your course will run, and so much more.

We always recommend making the most of Fresher’s Week, it’s a great way to settle in smoothly, build confidence, and start your university journey on the right note.

Here’s what you can expect during Fresher’s Week at university:

Daytime Activities

1. Campus Tours & Inductions

Universities usually organise guided tours during Freshers’ Week to help students get familiar with their new surroundings. These tours cover lecture halls, libraries, gyms, cafeterias, and student service centres, making it much easier to find your way around once classes begin. Induction sessions also introduce you to how the university works, key facilities you will use, and where to go for academic or personal support.

2. Departmental Meetings

Academic departments often host introductory sessions where you will meet your course leaders, tutors, and sometimes even senior students. These meetings outline the structure of your course, including modules, assignments, and exam expectations. It’s also an excellent opportunity to ask questions, clarify academic requirements, and start building connections with faculty and classmates.

3. Student Union Fairs

One of the highlights of Fresher’s Week is the Student Union Fair. Imagine rows of stalls showcasing a diverse range of clubs, societies, and sports teams, from football and drama to debate, dance, and niche interest groups like photography and gaming. Joining societies is a fantastic way to make friends outside your course and enrich your university experience with hobbies, passions, and new skills.

4. Workshops & Info Sessions

Universities often run workshops designed to prepare students for both academic and personal success. These can include study skills sessions (like note-taking or time management), mental health and wellbeing talks, budgeting advice, accommodation tips, and career guidance. Attending these sessions helps you feel more prepared for the challenges of university life and makes sure you’re aware of all the support systems available.

5. Freebies 

One of the fun perks of being a student is the freebies! From branded pens and handy tote bags to snacks and other surprise goodies, these little giveaways can make your day brighter. Universities, student housing providers, and even student fairs often hand out freebie bags packed with essentials (and sometimes quirky extras) to make student life a little easier.

Social Events

1. Welcome Parties

Fresher’s Week usually kicks off with welcome parties organised by the student union. These can range from lively DJ nights and theme parties to fun silent discos where everyone grooves to their own playlist through headphones. They’re designed to break the ice, help you meet new people, and set the tone for a memorable week.

2. Pub Crawls & City Tours

For students eager to explore their new surroundings, universities often arrange pub crawls and city tours. Pub crawls introduce you to popular nightlife spots, while daytime walking or bus tours highlight landmarks, cafes, and hidden gems around the city. It’s a perfect way to get to know both your new home and your fellow students.

Also Read: Explore 10+ Top Pubs in London: Raise a Glass in City

3. Meet & Greets

Not all events are loud or high-energy; many universities host casual mixers and meet & greets. These relaxed gatherings are a great opportunity to connect with flatmates, classmates, and other international students in a comfortable setting. They are instrumental if you prefer smaller, more personal interactions.

4. Cultural Nights & Games

Universities often include cultural and entertainment-based events to ensure there’s something for everyone. Expect movie screenings, karaoke sessions, quiz nights, and international socials where students showcase traditions from their home countries. These events create a welcoming atmosphere and celebrate the diversity of the student community.

Practical Essentials

1. Admin Work

Fresher’s Week is the ideal time to complete necessary administrative tasks. This includes collecting your student ID card, setting up your university email, registering with a GP (doctor), and opening a student bank account. Getting these essentials sorted early will save you stress later in the term.

2. Accommodation Settling

Use this week to settle into your new living space. Meet your flatmates or dorm mates, set up your room to feel more comfortable, and familiarise yourself with the housing rules. Building a good relationship with those you live with can make your university experience smoother and more enjoyable.

3. Safety Briefings

Many universities and housing providers arrange safety talks during Freshers’ Week. These sessions often come from campus security, local police, or housing staff, and cover valuable advice on staying safe both on and off campus. Attending them will help you feel more confident and aware of your surroundings.

4. Student Help Desk Support

If you ever feel lost or overwhelmed with these tasks, remember that the student help desk is there to assist you. They can guide you through administrative processes, point you to resources, and make sure you are on track.

How To Make The Most Of Your Freshers Week?

To make the most of Fresher’s Week, here are some key tips to maximise the experience socially, academically, and personally:

1. Get Involved and Attend Events

• Don’t miss major events like the Freshers Fair, where you will discover student societies, local services, and activities you can join.
• Collect information, sign up for clubs, and explore sports teams related to your interests. It’s one of the easiest ways to meet like-minded people and build friendships beyond academics.

2. Pace Yourself and Balance Social Life

• Fresher’s Week is known for intense socialising and partying, but it’s important to pace yourself. Go out because you want to, not because you feel pressured.
• Mix it up: enjoy quieter alternatives such as movie nights, quizzes, or cultural events if the nightlife doesn’t appeal to you.
• Strike a balance between fun and rest to avoid burning out or falling sick early in the semester.

3. Organise and Register Early

• Get all your registration tasks and academic setup done early in the week.
• Familiarise yourself with your course modules, timetables, and key contacts so you are off to a strong academic start.
• Set up your study space and gather essential materials; organisation now will save stress later.

4. Take Care of Health and Finances

• Maintain your energy by eating well, staying hydrated, and ensuring you get enough sleep.
• Set a budget for social events, food, and other expenses so your finances last beyond Fresher’s Week.

5. Build Social and Emotional Connections

• Make an effort to introduce yourself to your flatmates or dorm mates; good relations at home can make student life much easier.
• If you feel introverted or overwhelmed, schedule downtime and be selective about events. It’s perfectly fine to skip a night out.
• Use campus support services if you feel homesick, anxious, or stressed. Universities have plenty of resources for student wellbeing.

Also Read: Ways To Make Friends When Studying Abroad

What To Expect Post Freshers Week?

After the buzz of Fresher’s Week, life at university quickly shifts into a more balanced rhythm. Below is what you can expect to happen in Uni after your freshers week. 

• Academic Transition

After Freshers Week, university life shifts into full academic gear. Lectures, seminars, and coursework become the focus as students dive deeper into their modules. Assignments and deadlines ramp up, requiring time management and self-discipline.

• Social & Emotional Adjustments

The excitement of meeting new people gives way to deeper friendships. You may feel both excitement and pressure as you adjust to new responsibilities and independence. It’s normal to experience some emotional highs and lows as you balance social life with academics.

Also Read: Ways to Get Mixed Up Easily with International Students

• Practical Life & Routine

As the dust settles, you will develop a routine. Balancing study, socialising, and self-care becomes key. Time management, budgeting, and establishing healthy habits like exercise and sleep will help maintain balance.

• Support & Resources

University support doesn’t end with Fresher’s Week. Academic help, counselling, and student unions remain available, so seeking guidance when needed is always encouraged.

Also Read: On-Campus Student Support Services In Colleges & Universities!

Fresher’s Week is more than just parties and fairs, it’s the stepping stone into university life. It gives you the chance to settle in, meet new people, and prepare yourself academically, socially, and personally for the years ahead. By balancing fun with organisation, you will not only enjoy the buzz of this week but also set the tone for a smooth transition into university. 

And while you focus on exploring campus and building new friendships, let UniAcco take care of your student accommodation. Book your perfect student accommodation today with us!

FAQs 

Q1. What is the meaning of Freshers’ week?

Freshers Week is the official welcome period for new university students, usually held during the first week of term. It’s designed to help students settle in, meet people, and get familiar with campus life.

Q2. What happens in Freshers’ week? 

Universities organise a mix of events such as campus tours, society fairs, themed parties, and workshops. It’s all about meeting new people, joining clubs, and easing into student life.   

Q3. Which university has the best freshers’ event? 

This can vary each year, but large universities like Manchester, Leeds, and Nottingham are often known for hosting some of the most significant and most vibrant Freshers’ events. The “best” depends on what you are looking for, from nightlife to student societies.

Q4. Is Freshers’ week just clubbing?

No, Freshers Week is much more than just clubbing. It includes cultural events, sports sign-ups, volunteering fairs, and relaxed socials alongside nightlife.

Q5. What is included in the freshers’ week events? 

Events can include welcome fairs, city tours, sports trials, society sign-ups, and themed nights out. Many universities also host wellbeing workshops, career sessions, and casual mixers to suit all interests.