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Home Undergraduate: Before you start

You'll need to get several things done before you start your programme of study at UCL. Use our 'before you start' checklist to help you tick them off one by one so that you can feel prepared for the first day of term.

Before you start checklist

1. Meet your entry requirements (if this applies to you)

Keep an eye out for emails from the Admissions team, who will get in touch if you need to provide evidence of meeting your entry requirements. You can also check if Admissions are missing anything on your Applicant Portal. 

2. Sort out your funding

Funding advice: Check out the funding options available for undergraduate students. 
You will need to pay your fees or provide evidence of sponsorship before or after enrolment.

3. Find somewhere to live

You can live in UCL accommodation or find alternative accommodation, such as the University of London housing service. 

4. Complete pre-enrolment

Pre-enrolment is the first step to becoming enrolled as an official UCL student. You will receive an invitation to pre-enrol by email, which will explain the steps you need to take. But if you would like to know more please see our dedicated page.

5. Register your module preferences (if this applies to you)

After you have been enrolled you will receive an email inviting you to select your module preferences, if this applies to you. 
Look out for information and guidance from your department on how to choose your modules. 

6. Pay your fees

If you want to pay your fees during the main enrolment period, please select the “Pay Your Fees” option from your Portico account. After the enrolment period, you will see your fee invoices/transactions in your Student Statement (Portico) and will be able to pay from there. See further information on fees. 

7. Set up a student bank account

Setting up a student bank account will pay off by the end of term. It is also a good idea to think about planning your budget, especially if you will be new to studying in London.

8. Get your vaccinations

If you are under 25, please make sure you have meningitis (ACWY) and MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccinations before you arrive. Meningitis and measles are serious conditions and first-time university students are more susceptible. Find out more about these and COVID-19 vaccinations.

9. Complete online inductions

We have interactive online modules you need to complete before your course starts. They contain useful information that will give you a great start at university, such as how to start using the library, or where to find the closest bike rack or water fountain. 

10. Look into your childcare options (if this applies to you)

If you are a student who is a parent or guardian with caring responsibilities, we have support and advice available for you.

11. Apply for Disabled Student Allowance

If you are a disabled or neurodivergent student, make sure you have applied for Disabled Student Allowance for funding to cover study-related costs related to your disability. Find out more about our Disability, Mental Health and Wellbeing team.