Cube Student Living

Preparing for University: Essential Checklist for Incoming Freshers

Academic Essentials

The first thing to add to your checklist when preparing for university is everything you’ll need to excel academically. After all, that’s what you’re there for!

This includes textbooks, notebooks, pens, and stationery. Note that most universities now offer PDF versions of the required books, so you may not need to bring physical books. Instead, make sure you have a device to read the PDFs.

Most of the note-taking can be done using apps, but some people find that writing notes by hand helps them retain information better. If you’re one of them, be sure to pack some notebooks and pens!

Student Accommodation Essentials at The Cube Ealing

If you’re planning to stay at The Cube Ealing, most of the essentials are already covered since the accommodation comes fully furnished. However, there are still a few things you’ll need to bring with you.

At The Cube Ealing, you’ll likely need to bring your own duvet, bed sheets, and pillows. This is common in many university-owned accommodations. If you are staying in private accommodation that provides these, you can skip this step.

If your accommodation is self-catered, you’ll also need to bring some kitchen essentials like pots, pans, and food storage containers for leftovers. It’s also a good idea to bring some storage boxes to keep your room organized if you have a lot of belongings.

Don’t forget to bring some personal decor to make your space at The Cube Ealing feel more like home! Always remember to use non-damaging methods to avoid any charges for property damage.

Clothing and Personal Care

When packing for university, it’s easy to overpack. Bring clothes that you wear often and that are suitable for various weather conditions. Since space might be limited, consider adopting a capsule wardrobe, which allows you to create multiple outfits with a few key pieces.

Don’t forget to pack your toiletries, including face wash, body wash, a toothbrush, and other personal care items. You don’t want to start your first day searching for a store because you forgot something essential!

Medication

Pack a small supply of essential medications, like those for colds or headaches, even though these are easily available at local stores. It’s better to have them on hand rather than making a trip when you’re not feeling well.

Financial Planning

Financial planning is a crucial part of preparing for university. For many students, this will be the first time managing their own finances. Whether you’re using student finance or have other funding, create a budget that covers both your necessities and leisure activities.

It’s easy to spend your entire budget during the first few weeks, so plan carefully. If you’re not sure where to start, check out resources on budgeting apps or tips for saving money as a student.

Health and Wellness

If you’re moving to a new city for university, make sure to register with a local GP. This process can be straightforward and often involves filling out online forms or visiting the GP’s office.

Staying active is also important while at university. With the variety of sports and activities available, it’s a great opportunity to try new things and find something you enjoy. Many universities also have fitness centers, so you can maintain a consistent exercise routine.

In addition to staying active, focus on eating balanced, nutritious meals. Avoid relying solely on instant noodles! Planning your meals for the week can help you maintain a healthy diet and save money.


As you embark on this exciting journey into university life, remember that preparation is key to a smooth transition. From academic materials to personal items and everything in between, each aspect of this list plays a vital role in your overall university experience.

Take the time to get organized, reach out for support when needed, and embrace this new chapter with confidence. With the right preparation, you’re ready to thrive as you step into university life at The Cube Ealing.

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If you’re looking for accommodation at The Cube Ealing or other properties across the UK, visit our Universal Student Living website and browse our range of options.

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