10 questions students ask before coming to Winchester

27 Aug 2024

Collection of images on campus throughout the seasons

1. Where might I live in Winchester?

Whether you are an undergraduate or postgraduate student, you have the opportunity to apply for halls in your first year of study. When it comes to student living at Winchester, you’ll be spoilt for choice. We’ve got a wide range of stunning accommodation options, both on- and off-campus. From catered halls with larger than average study bedrooms (and some with fantastic views across our beautiful city) to ensuite rooms in self-catering halls, you’ll have space, comfort and all the modern facilities you need to call it ‘home’. Explore our accommodation on our Virtual Tour.

After the first year, students tend to find off-campus housing in the surrounding areas of Winchester, such as in Stanmore, Badger Farm, Weeke, Winnall or the city centre. Check out the accommodation available at Winchester and how to apply.

2. What's it like being a student at Winchester?

As a student living in Winchester, you’ll be part of a welcoming and friendly community. Whether you live on-campus or off, you’ll have easy access to all our fantastic facilities for studying, relaxing and socialising. Plus, you’ll be close to the heart of our beautiful city with its lively social scene and stunning open spaces. Southampton, which has several theatres and concert venues, is only 15 minutes away by train and London is just an hour away too.

We’ve got loads of support and advice to help you make the most of your time here and get the best out of what Winchester has to offer. Have a look at the Student Support available.

3. Will I get the chance to travel home during term time?

Of course! It is important to take some time off for yourself and have a break from the ‘university bubble’. There’s nothing better than going back home for a nice home-cooked meal and a night in your own bed. It is a good idea not to travel back home too soon – give yourself time to settle in and make friends and then you’ll have so much more to tell everyone at home. There is a Reading Week in the middle of each semester where there are no taught classes, so this is an ideal time to study and catch up with friends back home.

4. Is it possible to work part-time alongside my studies?

It definitely is possible, especially if you’re super organised and have good time management skills. There are plenty of jobs available through the University Student Union, such as working in the SU bar, SU shops or even becoming a Student Ambassador. You can work on campus during events such as Open Days doing things like campus tours and showing people our accommodation. These roles have flexible working hours that fit around your study. If the idea of working at University doesn’t float your boat, then there are plenty of cafes, pubs and shops in the city centre which hire students each year. Why not check out the University's jobs and opportunities platform, CareerConnect and see our Careers team's top tips on Finding a job.

5. How do I join the doctors whilst I’m here?

During your online enrolment, we ask you to register with a Winchester GP before you arrive in September.

There are three GP surgeries in Winchester that you can choose to register with, and can do so directly via their website:

6. What’s the nightlife like in Winchester?

There's a lot of fun to be had at a night at the Student Union. Whether cheesy BOP tunes are your jam, or you prefer testing your knowledge in the weekly Big Fat Quiz, the SU has you covered. There are also plenty of pubs, bars and restaurants to keep you entertained (even one of the oldest pubs in England), as well as a cinema and theatres in the centre of town.

7. Isn’t it expensive to live here?

It’s good to know that when you’re in university-managed accommodation at Winchester, your bills, content insurance and wifi costs are all included. You can also choose to be in catered halls of residence so that your meals are taken care of. We make it easy for you to budget for your living costs by providing clear and simple payment options.

We know living costs are increasing across the country at the moment so make sure you access all of the discounts that are available for students. The Totum app is free on totum.com and gives you discounts on travel, shopping and technology. You can save a third on rail fares with a 16-25 railcard and National Express also offer a third off coach fares with a 16-26 Young Persons Coachcard.

8. How can I meet people and make friends here?

We have a small, close-knit campus – you’re almost always guaranteed to bump into somebody you know en route to your lecture. It’s probably one of the best things about coming to the uni, and you will definitely feel a sense of community here. There are so many societies you can join through the Student Union where you will have the opportunity to meet like-minded people. From Manga to mooting, philosophy to photography, there is a group or society for you.

9. Will I need to buy books before I arrive?

Generally, no. The university provides the majority of your texts as ebooks or as scanned copies of book chapters. We provide these through a OneSearch Resource List which is your interactive version of your module resource list. This contains direct links to online resources, digitisations of your weekly readings and book references that link straight to OneSearch. You can access your Resource List once you have registered and enrolled on your course.

10. What are the semester dates for this academic year?

These are important, and it’s a really good idea to add these dates into your diary or calendar. Semester dates for this academic year and future academic years can be found on Semester Dates page.

Still have a question?

Ask us anything on Live Chat on our website.

Back to blog