General FAQ's to make the move easier

Note: Due to the ongoing COVID-19 situation some processes may change according to this, please make sure to check any emails you receive from the university before you arrive and in the first few weeks for up to date information.

Where can I collect my student card?

Your Student Card can be collected from the Centre for Student Life. This is located on Park Place, Cardiff, CF10 3BB. Please take with you all the required documents such as your unconditional offer, proof of enrolment, etc.  Preferably, this should be done as soon as possible as you will require your student card to access most, if not all, the university buildings. Check out more info here.

How do I register with a GP?

You can now register for a GP online or research the GP practices local to you and see which will fit you best. Find out how to register online here.

How to open a student bank account?

Student bank accounts are not mandatory, but they do offer advantages. It's best to research the different student bank accounts on offer to see which one is right for you - some are able to be set up online and some will require you to go to a branch physically. There are different requirements for home and international students. For more detailed information on setting up a student bank account, go here.

How do I connect devices to University WiFi?

For devices such as mobile phones and laptops, you will first need to onboard your devices. Once you have done this, your devices will be able to connect to Eduroam. You can detailed information about how to do this here. 

To connect a device that isn't a laptop, tablet or smartphone to the WiFi from University residences, you will need to use the CU-PSK network. This will allow you to connect wireless devices (e.g. gaming consoles, smart speakers etc.), where it isn't possible to connect using a username/password combination to the wireless network from University residences. For detailed instructions, go here.

Where can I meet new people?

The Residence Life Team hosts events on-site for students who live in the same accommodation so they can come and meet others. We serve coffee, tea, biscuits, etc. all for free! If you  would like to meet new people, come down to your accommodation’s social space! Joining societies is another new way to meet people, especially with similar interests. Visit the Students' Union website and get searching for societies that you would like to join.

How can I get around campus?

If walking is not your first choice of getting around, that is not a problem. OVO Bikes are great for students since there are plenty of bike docks around. When you sign up as a student with them, you get the first 30 minutes of each day for free! Another option would be to use local buses. We suggest you download the Cardiff Bus app to get the routes and schedules of buses. If you live in University Hall, you have access to a bus that picks up from there and drops off to several locations including the Students Union, Queen’s Buildings, School of Journalism, etc. 

What to do in the first two weeks at university?

In the first few weeks of moving into Cardiff, the Students Union hosts a ton of events. Cardiff Freshers starts and is followed by many more. To know more about what events are running, where and when, visit https://www.cardiffstudents.com/. The first few weeks are also a perfect time to join societies. Visit the Students Union website to search for societies that interest you.

I lost my key/card to my room. What do I do?

Losing a key and a card are treated differently. Visit the reception of your accommodation and let them know. If a key is lost, the charge for a new key is £20 plus £10 for a lockout. For a lost room card, the charge is £10 plus £10 for a lockout. If this happens out of the Reception opening hours, call Security on +442920874444.

People are being loud late at night, what should I do?

If someone is being loud between 11 PM & 7 AM, always call security. Their number is +442920874444. They will attend and ask people to be respectful of their neighbours.