By this point in the summer, you might know where you’re going to be staying, bought most of your stuff and be itching to move into your first-year accommodation. The question is… when?! As well as discussing when you might get the keys to your new place, this blog also tells you what you can expect on your move-in day and how to ensure it goes as smoothly as possible!
When can I move in?
Most universities will allow students to move in either the week before Fresher’s or during Fresher’s (Welcome Week) itself. A lot of uni-owned accommodation is rented out as holiday accommodation during the summer, particularly in touristy cities, such as Edinburgh and London. This means you likely won’t be moving in until September, but you can definitely work this to your advantage! As well as giving you a longer summer holiday, you’ll also have more time to network and make friends, choose your modules, ensure your funding is sorted out and make sure you’ve packed everything you need.
Your exact move-in date will usually be set out in your contract. Since each hall of residence might have hundreds of students moving in, you will probably be given a specific date or time when you are allowed to arrive. It is important you make sure you will be available to move-in at this time, and reschedule it as soon as possible if necessary.
You can also find more information about your move-in day on your university’s website, with many having online portals where you can ask any questions you have.
What to expect on move-in day:
When you arrive at your new accommodation, you should head straight to reception or any staff members who are waiting to help you. You’ll check-in (a bit like a hotel, but for a much longer stay!) and be given your keys and welcome pack. University staff and RA’s are keen to make this day as special as possible, so look out for any events or giveaways going on in the common rooms or reception areas. Some may even offer to take a picture of you to mark your first day of university.
Once you’ve got your keys, you’re free to head up to your flat! If some of your flatmates are already there, this will be your first chance to say hello, so make sure you’re ready. You’ll probably want to make sure you can connect to the WiFi (the instructions for which should be in your welcome pack). You’ll also usually have to fill out an inventory to confirm that your room is in good condition. It’s a good idea to do this whilst your room is still empty, and you should also ensure you take photos of any marks or scratches.
You’re then free to start unpacking and making your new room feel like home!
Tips for a smooth move-in:
Move-in days can be stressful and emotional, but there are some things you can do to make sure it goes as smoothly as possible:
- Pack early: Having your stuff packed early will prevent you panicking at the last minute and bringing things you don’t need (and don’t have space for!)
- Be on time: Make sure you know what time you need to leave home to get to your accommodation in time for your move-in slot (and factor in any delays).
- Plan your day: Having a rough idea of where you’re going to park can help to reduce unnecessary stress. Similarly, factoring in an easy dinner, like a meal deal, takeaway or ready meal will remove another thing for you to worry about.
- Try to find your flatmates in advance: Most universities now have Facebook pages for each accommodation, meaning you might be able to find your flatmates before you move in. This can be a great way for you to build a rapport and sort out some flat issues (e.g. whether to buy a kettle or toaster) which will be one less thing to think about once you’ve all moved in. It might also reassure you to feel you already know some familiar faces, and make settling in easier.
- Be patient: Move-in days are often chaotic, so make sure you’re patient with your family and other students you see. Chances are you’ll bump into some of your fellow new residents again soon, so being friendly is definitely worthwhile!
- Give yourself grace: It’s completely normal to feel stressed and unsure on your move-in day or find yourself regretting your life choices. I’d recommend focusing on getting through one hour or day at a time and you’ll soon find you settle into university life much faster than you expect!
What if I’m not living in university accommodation?
If you’re living in a shared flat, studio or private halls of residence, your move-in date should be set out in your contract. You will usually be able to move in a little bit earlier than university accommodation, giving you more time to settle into your new city and adjust to university life.
Similar to university accommodation, you’ll need to go to reception once you arrive where you’ll be able to check-in and receive your keys. You may be required to fill out additional documents if there are extra facilities (e.g. a liability waiver for a gym), and you should also check that access to these rooms has been added to your key fob.
You may be required to book a move-in date to ensure staff are on-hand to help you, so this is worth checking in advance.
Soooooooo… can I move in yet?
Whilst the exact dates for when you can move into your first-year accommodation may vary, you should be able to step into your new pad in or around Fresher’s week. In the meantime, there are various steps you can take to make your move-in day as easy as possible, and you should also ensure you enjoy some well-deserved time off!
If you are still looking for accommodation - don’t panic! We have plenty of great places available on our website that will be ready and waiting for you come move-in day.
