Arriving after the start of the semester?

Welcome to Stirling, we hope you will enjoy studying with us. It is important that you arrive at the beginning of semester to receive the full benefit of induction and teaching. However, we know that some students can be delayed by visas and travel issues.

Things to do before you arrive

If you are delayed in arriving after the start of semester, you should still access our Stirling Essentials orientation programme. If you have missed the pre-arrival online workshops, you can still access the recordings, undertake essential activities and check out the resources which will help answer your questions. The programme includes advice for international students to help them settle in. 

Our welcome website provides a lot of information on life, study and support at Stirling.

All of these resources are available both before and after you arrive.

Arrival checklist

On arrival, it’s important you complete a few key tasks to help you settle quickly into your degree studies:

Essential administration

Getting started with your studies

  • I have introduced myself to my tutors and lecturers and let them know that I have just arrived and asked for advice on work I need to do to catch up.
  • I’ve watched all the lecture recordings on the module Canvas pages and read all the learning materials (such as PowerPoints) for sessions I have missed.
  • I’ve found out when all my assignment deadlines are and added them to my calendar – these are listed in each module Canvas space.
  • I’m familiar with my reading lists – available through your module Canvas space or searching by module code through the central system.
  • I’ve contacted Student Learning Services for information on support sessions for students who have started the semester late.
  • I’ve completed the Academic Integrity course which is essential to complete at the start of my studies.

Settling into Stirling

  • I have checked the Be Connected programme of events which includes social events to help meet other students and orientation and support for new students.
  • I’ve signed up for a STEER peer mentor who can help answer questions I have and help me settle in.
  • I’ve walked around the campus and have visited the library (and asked the helpdesk staff any questions I have), Campus Central where the Student Hub and other services can be found and the Sports facilities.
  • I’ve found the Students’ Union next to Campus Central and have checked out their website and social media to understand their services and consider any clubs or societies I want to join.

Support

Contact the Student Services Hub for all general questions about the support available on campus.

  • Speak to your module co-ordinators for advice on the content of your module and the assignments.
  • Student Learning Services have a Canvas site, live workshops, and 1:1 tutorials to help you with academic skills. This includes Academic and Communicative English, no matter what language(s) you speak. Email sls@stir.ac.uk to book tutorials. All support is free.