Starting university is one of the biggest milestones in any student’s life. For first year students, the first week of university is more than just lectures and registering—it’s Freshers’ Week (also known as freshers’), a time filled with social events, opportunities, and experiences that will shape your university life.
In this student guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Freshers Week 2025, from what happens, to how to prepare, and tips for making the most of it.
What is a Fresher?
A fresher is a new student starting uni for the first time. Every year, thousands of students across UK universities begin their journey as freshers. The start of term can feel overwhelming, but Freshers’ Week is designed to help you settle in, meet people, and adjust to campus life.
What is Freshers Week?
Freshers Week (known as Welcome Week in some universities) is the week before term officially begins and a huge part of a students experience. It’s packed with freshers events, fairs, taster sessions, and nights out. The week is usually organised by your students’ union (SU) and is a great opportunity to meet new people and make friends, explore university societies, and find out what clubs and societies on offer suit your interests.
Fresher’s Week will typically run in the first term of September 2025, with exact dates varying between universities. Every university hosts different events, but the purpose is the same: to help you settle, register, and feel part of your new community.
Welcome Week – What Happens in Freshers Week?
During Welcome Week, you can expect a huge variety of events happening across campus for all university students:
- Freshers Fair – A chance to explore societies on offer, from sports clubs to niche hobbies. It’s also where you’ll collect your first freeby and maybe even grab some free pizza and pick up a freshers guide.
- Taster Sessions – A great way to connect with new people and try out clubs and societies before committing.
- Social Events & Game Nights – Events during freshers are a great way to meet new friends and experience student life beyond lectures.
- Student Discounts – Many local shops, bars and clubs offer freshers’ discounts and deals during the first few weeks.
- Registration & Matriculation – You’ll need to complete online registration, student registration, and meet your academic department to set up your timetable.
- Accommodation Settling – Whether in halls or private student accommodation, the week is a chance to bond with flatmates and organise essentials.
Things You Need to Know as a Fresher
- Register Early – Make sure your student registration and online registration are complete.
- Sort Your Finances – Consider opening a student bank account with benefits like interest-free overdrafts.
- Healthcare – Register with a local GP as soon as possible.
- Balance Fun with Rest – The week can get intense with social events, so don’t be surprised if you feel under the weather with freshers flu. This mix of sickness and tiredness is common, but resting and staying hydrated helps.
- Meet New People – Freshers Week is a great opportunity to meet people from all walks of life in the UK and beyond. If you’re an international student, it’s also a time to get familiar with life in the UK.
Students’ Experience – What Freshers Week is Really Like
Every fresher’s experience is unique. Some enjoy the nights during freshers, while others prefer clubs and societies, game nights, or quiet socials. There’s no one “right way” to do Freshers’ Week. The ultimate guide is to do what feels right for you.
Freshers week may also highlight the drinking culture in bars and clubs, but remember there are always alternatives. From taster sessions to society fairs, there’s a great opportunity to meet new friends without pressure.
Freshers Week – Adjusting to University Life
Freshers Week is more than just parties—it’s about starting university and adjusting to university life. It’s the week before teaching starts, so take advantage of the free time to:
- Explore your campus and city.
- Meet your flatmates and neighbours.
- Learn your timetable and plan for the weeks of term ahead.
- Find out about events happening through your SU.
Final Thoughts: The Ultimate Guide to Freshers Week
Freshers Week is your opportunity to experience university life to the fullest. Whether you’re excited about joining university societies, attending a freshers fair, or just enjoying free pizza, it’s a great opportunity to meet people and begin your student life.
Remember: Welcome week isn’t just about one week. The first few weeks will shape your journey, so take it at your own pace, look after yourself, and enjoy the start of term.
Helpful Resources:
Save the Student: Freshers Week Survival Tips