Pre-Arrival Checklists

To help you enjoy a smooth and successful start at the University of Chester, there are a few important tasks to complete before you arrive.

Our Pre-Arrival Checklist outlines everything you need to do in advance to make sure you’re fully prepared for the start of your course.

International students:
You’ll have a few additional steps to follow. Please refer to our International Student Checklist for full guidance and requirements.

If you have any questions, our Student Experience Team is here to help:
studentexperience@chester.ac.uk

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1. Book your Accommodation

If you're moving to Chester, make sure you secure your accommodation before you arrive. International students must arrange accommodation before travelling to the UK. Full details and application guidance are available on the University of Chester Accommodation page.

2. Complete Enrolment

Enrolment formally registers you as a University of Chester student. You must complete:

Stage 1 – Online Enrolment (before you arrive):
Verify your details and confirm your place. You’ll receive a Welcome to UoC email with your Student ID number and instructions, sent to the email address you used for your application.

Stage 2 – After You Arrive:

Home postgraduate students: You don’t need to attend an in-person enrolment session, but you do need to collect your Student ID card and lanyard.
International postgraduate students: You must complete in-person enrolment and collect your Student ID card as part of the process. Please follow the additional steps in the International Student Checklist for additional steps and guidance specific to your enrolment process.

For more details about enrolment, visit our Enrolment Information Page.

3. Upload your Photo

Upload a passport-style photo for your Student ID card before you arrive. The uploaded photo will also be added to your student record.

To upload your photo and to find more information, visit our website.

4. Pay your fees

International and self-funding students can find full details on payment options and methods on our Payment Options page.

5. Register with a GP

Once you have your term-time address, we recommend registering with a local GP to ensure access to medical care.  Find out how to register with a GP.

6. Download the UoC App

The UoC App is essential for student life - you’ll use it to check into lectures, view your timetable, get event updates, and more. You can log in using the University login details included in your Welcome Email. Download the app here.

7. Access Your Student Email Account

Your student email address will be studentnumber@chester.ac.uk  

Visit our guidance page to learn how to access your inbox.  

9. View your PGR Timetable

PGR Induction will take place this year on the 13th and 14th October 2026 in Chester. Further details, including a full itinerary, will be sent to your student's email address. Your timetable will also be available on the UoC App. These vary by course, so check the details carefully. More information about timetabling is available on our website.

9. View Your Timetable

Your timetable will be available on the UoC App, including your Academic Induction sessions. These vary by course, so check the details carefully. More information about timetabling is available on our website.

10. Make your First Appointment With Your Supervisor

MPhil/PhD research students should arrange a meeting with their supervisor as soon as possible. MRes and Professional Doctorate Students should make contact with their programme leader to ensure they have access to all online line materials and know when any face-to-face sessions are scheduled to take place.

8. Set Up Multi-factor Authentication

To access University systems securely, you’ll need to use Multifactor Authentication (MFA). Download the Microsoft Authenticator app to your smartphone or tablet, and follow the MFA setup guide to complete your security setup before you arrive.