Student Life

Health, culture, travel and relationships, written by students at UK universities

Core guides

Everything you need for better student life, in one place

Students sit and laugh around a table, in a room with blue walls.

Mental health support

Useful mental health apps for students

Here’s our list of the top ten mental health apps for students, all of which are brilliant for managing stress, improving sleep, and building emotional resilience.

Advice

Student life FAQs

What is student life actually like at university?

Student life is a mix of independence, responsibility, and freedom. Most days are fairly ordinary — lectures, studying, cooking, socialising, and downtime — rather than constant parties or dramatic moments. Your experience depends heavily on your course, accommodation, and how involved you choose to be. There is no single “correct” version of student life.

How do I make friends at university?

Friendships rarely happen all at once. Many students meet people through their accommodation in the first few weeks, but long-term friendships often form through courses, societies, sports teams, part-time jobs, or shared routines. Being consistent — attending classes, joining groups, saying yes to small plans — matters more than trying to be instantly outgoing.

How do I balance studying and having a social life?

Balance comes from structure, not perfection. Planning your week, setting realistic study goals, and protecting time for social activities helps prevent burnout. University is about both academic progress and personal growth — you do not need to choose one over the other. Consistency is more sustainable than last-minute cramming followed by guilt.

What if I feel lonely at university?

Feeling lonely is more common than people admit, especially in the first term. It does not mean you have failed or that university was the wrong choice. Building connections takes time. Staying engaged in classes, joining activities, and reaching out to support services if needed can make a real difference. Loneliness is usually temporary, not permanent.

Is student life supposed to be the “best years of your life”?

That phrase creates unnecessary pressure. University can be exciting and formative, but it is also a period of adjustment and growth. Some moments will be brilliant, others will feel ordinary or challenging. Student life is not about constant highs — it is about learning independence, developing confidence, and shaping your future.