Becoming a student is a is an exciting step, and we know it can also feel like a big change. This guide has been created to support you as you settle in, explore opportunities, and make the most of your time at Edge Hill University.
Throughout the guide you’ll find practical information about university services and support, as well as details of societies, networks, and events where you can connect with others. You’ll also hear from Timi, a current student, who will share her experiences and top tips for life at university. We’ve included advice on making the most of Ormskirk and the local area beyond and tips to help you feel at home on campus. We’re proud of our diverse student community, and we want every student to feel included and confident in their journey. Whether you’re looking for guidance, community, or inspiration, this guide is here to point you in the right direction and remind you that support is always available. We hope it helps you feel prepared, connected, and ready to make the most of everything university life has to offer.
Meet Timi
Hi, my name is Timi and I am a second year Politics and International Relations student. Coming to University is always an exciting time. The change of scenery, the emotion that I can only describe as positive anxiety to see what the next three years of your life has in store for you, and what being a truly independent adult means to you. It is an almost indescribable feeling. However, throughout this guide I will attempt to put into words what being an Edge Hill University student means and what it looks like from my perspective.
Applying to university will be your first step towards your future in Higher Education and can sometimes feel difficult to navigate. This section of the guide supports and guides you to explore and plan your next step, to find the right course and university for you.
Exploring your options
The UCAS Hub is a great resource to help you explore courses and universities available based on your area of interest. They offer a careers quiz too if you’re unsure about what you might do once you finish university.
Universities often visit schools and colleges to support students with their choices; make sure you keep an eye out for these opportunities within your sixth form or college. Universities also hold Open Days, usually throughout the summer and autumn. You can attend these events with family, friends or even on your own and can explore the campus, courses, subject facilities and the support available at university. Students also work at these evens to give you a real flavour of university life!
If you don’t meet the entry requirements for the university course you’re interested in, there are a range of options you can consider:
Complete an alternative route into Higher Education such as Edge Hill’s free, six-week Fastrack programme
Explore whether you qualify for a reduced (contextual) offer on your application in recognition of your lived experience, which can mean that your entry requirements will be reduced.
Support with your application
Our enquiries team are available via live chat and email Monday-Friday to support you with any queries or questions you may have about applying to university. They can point you in the direction of specific teams or services that can support you, from accommodation to support for disabilities.
When applying to university, you will need to answer three personal statement questions as part of your UCAS application. This is your opportunity to explain what motivates you to study and to highlight the skills and experiences that will help you succeed on your course. Your lived experience may mean that you have developed qualities such as resilience, advocacy and determination. These are powerful strengths that can make you stand out.
Make sure to also identify your lived experience in the Diversity and More About You sections of your UCAS form. Declaring this information won’t disadvantage your application. It is only used by universities to let you know about any support offers that they have available to you, such as our Thrive programme.
Applying for student finance
After you have submitted your university application, you can apply for Student Finance (usually around the start of March). You can apply for Tuition Fee and Maintenance Loans via the Student Finance website. The ‘applying for student finance’ section of our webpages offers support on how to apply and explores the evidence you’ll need to submit alongside your application.
If you are a Muslim student and are concerned about student finance and interest, the alternative finance section of our Money Advice pages provides the most up-to-date information from the government about Sharia compliant student finance. When considering student finance, we recommend you seek the support of your local Imam if you are unsure of what to do.
When you make your Student Finance application, you can also apply for other funding including Disabled Students Allowance, and bursaries and grants which support students who have parental or caring responsibilities. These will need you to provide further information and potentially undergo assessments, so we recommend that you start the application process as soon as you can.
Getting started at Edge Hill University
Applying to university will be your first step towards your future in Higher Education and can sometimes feel difficult to navigate. This section of the guide supports and guides you to explore and plan your next step, to find the right course and university for you.
Induction
You will be given an Induction Week timetable which provides all the information you need during your first week, including where you need to be and when. There are a range of activities planned for you, including sessions where you will meet your academic department staff, be given overviews of student support, and activities designed to help you get to know people you’ll be studying with. It’s a lot of information, but it will help set you up for success at Edge Hill.
As well as your timetable sessions, check out the Catalyst Induction Toolkit which covers all of the support you can access during your time at Edge Hill.
Within your first few weeks, if not before, you’ll also hear from our Student Success Team, who run the Thrive programme. Thrive is a year-long programme for foundation and first year students from backgrounds that are traditionally under-represented at university. The programme evolves year on year, so find out more about how Thrive currently looks via the Thrive webpage.
Personal tutoring
Every student at Edge Hill is given a named personal tutor, and they’re a great person to go to for course advice, extensions, academic guidance and signposting to support services.
You should have a named Personal Tutor by the end of the first week after starting at university and should have received an email from them within one week of fully enrolling with their contact details, office location and office hours, which are times where they are available for drop-in meetings. Building a good relationship early on will help you throughout your studies, so engage with them early and make sure you make the most of your meetings.
Welcome week
Welcome Week is a set of events and activities held at the start of term to help new (and returning) students settle in, get to know the university, meet people, understand what support is available, and start university with a wealth of opportunities.
A key part of the week is the Student Union Welcome Fair which is a great place to explore everything student life. You can grab freebies from local and national brands, meet societies, and find out how to get involved in campus activities. Whether you’re into sport, nightlife, culture, or something completely different, there are societies that can take you under their wing. Make sure you explore all of the societies and clubs that are available at the fair, as you might find something that you didn’t expect and discover a new hobby. Societies will also often run their own welcome event following the fair too, so why not drop-in, give it a try and see if it is your thing!
Timi’s welcome week experience
My first week at Edge Hill was interesting, attempting to get used to new surroundings and living with people I had never met. It was an opportunity to grow as an individual and come out of my comfort zone.
Before arriving at the University and during moving-in weekend the University was very prompt in communicating with me through emails about what to expect within the first week, a number of letters and emails had been sent to inform me on things like checklists for accommodation must haves and maps on where to find locations on campus and welcome week activities that would help me to meet new people and bound with my new flatmates.
Campus connectors (also students) made their rounds to accommodation with games and such to help everyone get to know each other. One of these was a 1000-piece puzzle of the University and each flat had the opportunity to post it on the student life Instagram page, and the first few flats won a prize.
The Welcome Fair is hosted every year; it is an opportunity to see what different societies the Students’ Union has to offer. An element of university that surprised me was how differently structured classes are compared to high school and college.
So much of the course is subject to independent learning, this meant managing my time much differently to ensure I wouldn’t fall behind on any learning or modules within my subject. I created a strict routine for myself that also meant I had plenty of time to socialise and engaged in newfound hobbies such as rugby that I discovered during the Welcome Fair.
My advice to new students would be to take the first week to let yourself get used to your new life as a student and always ask for help where you feel you could use it, from tutors, and other helpful services across campus.
Accommodation and commuting
Finding the right place to live or deciding how to commute to campus is an important part your time at university. This section provides information and guidance on accommodation options, travel, and practical tips to help you settle in.
Applying for on-campus accommodation
Our modern accommodation options are at the heart of our vibrant campus community, and all of our halls are designed to meet the needs of our students. We’re 1st in the UK for accommodation based on student reviews (Uni Compare 2025). Both quiet halls and same-gender halls may be an option too, meaning you can live in an environment most comfortable for you.
If you make Edge Hill your firm choice on your UCAS application, you are guaranteed a room on campus. When you apply for accommodation with us, you will be provided with a link to our online accommodation portal where you will be able to self-select your room. As part of the process, you will be asked to let us know if you have any additional needs or considerations that the Accommodation team should take into account.
Second-year and third-year accommodation and living off campus
In addition to our first-year accommodation, we also have specific on-campus halls of residence which are designed for second year and third year students. If you don’t wish to live on campus, our Accommodation team can support you in finding somewhere to live off site in Ormskirk and the surrounding area. The university uses StudentPad as a platform to link students with local landlords, and this goes live in early January each year. If you’re studying at our St James campus in Manchester check out the St James guide for support in finding private accommodation.
As well as the Accommodation team, the Student Union also regularly provides advice and guidance to students about accommodation, particularly when arranging it off site. The SU’s Advice Team can also support you with any guidance or assistance you may need if you have any concerns about accommodation that you are using during your studies.
Facilities
There are three self-service laundry rooms on campus, located at each side of Main Building and one at the bottom of Central Halls; with washers and dryers you can pay for and control through an app. You can check which machines are free and get a notification when your wash is done!
University is a great time to gain experience, develop new skills, and prepare for your future career. This section help you explore finding part-time jobs, volunteering opportunities, internships, and employability resources that will help you build confidence and enhance your CV.
Working on campus
There are various on-campus jobs which can fit around your studies, providing a convenient way to earn money while gaining skills. Popular roles include being a Student Guide, where you’ll represent the university at events and help new students feel welcome. Based on your lived experience, you may be eligible for a guaranteed interview for this role. For more information about the role and when to apply (usually September and early October each year), visit the Student Recruitment job opportunities page.
You could also apply to be a Campus Connector in the Student Life team who support campus activities and help develop student community engagement. These roles not only offer flexible hours but also enhance your CV with real-world experience.
As well as on-campus opportunities, you can also check out the Careers vacancy portal throughout the year to find other part-time roles both on and off campus which may be suitable for you.
Student Opportunity Fund
The Student Opportunity Fund is available to support students who are eligible for Thrive financially, in order to help you access work-related experiences such a conferences, work exchanges or events. You can apply for up to £1,000.
Careers team
The Careers team help students develop their employability by offering opportunities to learn, gain transferable skills, and acquire relevant work experience. They encourage all students to use their services from first year onwards. They can support with a range of goals, ranging from long-term career aspirations to securing a part-time job. They also run the Extra Edge Award, a programme designed to help you develop and showcase your skills and experience. You can find out about their full range of support on their dedicated webpages.
Money Advice Team
The Money Advice Team can help you manage your finances and make the most of available support. The team can provide guidance on budgeting, student funding, bursaries, grants, and benefits, as well as help with any financial challenges you may face during your studies. The team offers confidential advice and practical support to ensure you feel confident and informed about your money. You can book a face to face, phone or virtual 30-minute appointment with the team when you need.
Timi’s experience working on campus and using the Careers service
Prior to coming to university, I had a full-time job, and one of my concerns was being able to find part-time employment during my studies. I was relived to find that there were plenty of job opportunities on and off campus and I was fortunate to get a job as a student guide. The job is flexible around my classes and social life helping me create a perfect work life balance. Some other opportunities include working as a campus connector as I mentioned earlier.
The university Careers Team provide services that give students the chance to speak to members of the team in applying for jobs, working through what interview process looks like as well as helping with the curation of CVs. Which I took advantage of to make sure I had the best chance of finding and getting a job.
Health and wellbeing
Looking after your physical and mental wellbeing is essential during your time at university. This section highlights the support services, resources, and advice available to help you maintain a healthy balance and access help whenever you need it.
Therapy and counselling
Edge Hill offers students free and confidential counselling and therapy sessions through the Mental Health and Wellbeing Team. These sessions are a chance to talk about anything that’s on your mind, big or small. You can book a 30-minute appointment which gives you the chance to talk through any issues or concerns you may have with a Mental Health and Wellbeing Practitioner. It’s a supportive conversation to understand how your mental health is currently affecting you. After the appointment, the practitioner will create a personalised action plan that outlines the next steps and the kind of support that would be most helpful for you. You don’t need to be in crisis, sometimes it just helps to talk things through. If you need counselling, you’ll usually be offered a set number of sessions (maximum of 6) and if you would benefit from ongoing or specialist help, they can point you in the right direction for support within the NHS or local community.
The Edge Well 24/7 service offers confidential and free support to help students navigate a range of personal, emotional and practical challenges and is available 24 hours a day, every day of the year via phone, live chat, email or video call. Edge Well also offers Lived Experience Matching where you can ask to speak with someone who shares or understands your background.
Physical Health
Looking after your physical health is an important part of settling into university life and achieving your goals. Our Health and Wellbeing team provides information about registering with a GP, accessing local healthcare services, and getting the support you need while studying. Find out more on the Healthcare Services page.
Timi’s experience engaging with support
The student mental health support at the University was indispensable to me. In my first year they helped me navigate my mental health with counselling sessions to adapt to my place at the university and provided advice for achieving academic success. They gave advice such as allowing myself plenty of time to meet deadlines with a strict schedule that still allows me to relax and socialise. Making use of the on-campus sports centre, doing classes and sport sessions like tennis and swimming help me to destress.
Talking to lecturers and personal tutors have help to alleviate any self-doubt I might have about classes and coursework, and often they simply just listen when you need someone to talk to about the things life can throw at you. In my experience I have received a lot of support from my lecturers and personal tutor, including their help with finding good work experience.
If ever at any point as a student here you find yourself struggling, always reach out for help from personal tutors or the mental health team, where you can book appointments to be seen and they will always give you their best to make sure your university experience is as it ought to be.
Academic skills and support
Adapting to university study can take time and experience and there is support available to help you succeed. Here you’ll find information on academic skills development, study support, learning resources, and guidance to help you achieve your goals.
UniSkills
The UniSkills team provide a comprehensive programme of workshops, online resources and one-to-one support tailored to enhance your academic abilities and boost your confidence at university and beyond. Covering topics such as preparing to student before university and academic reading and writing whilst on course, the team are your key to academic success, whatever your subject or level of study. You can find out more about UniSkills via their dedicated webpages.
Inclusion & SpLD
If you have a disability, long-term health condition, mental health need, or a specific learning difference (such as dyslexia, dyspraxia or ADHD), support is available to help you make the most of university life.
You don’t need a diagnosis or an EHCP to get started, just contact the Inclusion Team or SpLD Team. They can discuss your situation, advise on any evidence needed, and suggest helpful adjustments or support. This can be in the form of a Student Support Plan, extra exam time, specialist equipment, one-to-one study support, or guidance on applying for Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA). You can find out more about Inclusion and SpLD via their dedicated webpages.
Catalyst and study resources
Our library, which is called The Catalyst, is a welcoming space to study, find resources, and get help when you need it. You’ll find quiet and group study zones, laptops you can borrow with your student ID card and 24/7 access during term time. Use DiscoverMore to explore books, e-books, and journals online and if you’re not sure where to start, the friendly staff at the helpdesk on the ground floor are always happy to show you.
Extensions and mitigation circumstances
Sometimes things happen that can make it hard to meet a deadline, and that’s completely understandable. If you experience illness, personal difficulties, or anything else that affects your studies, you can apply for an extension or mitigating circumstances.
Your Personal Tutor is the best person to talk to first. They can explain the process, help you apply, and make sure you get the support you need. Asking for help won’t affect your grades. These systems are in place to make sure everyone has a fair chance to succeed.
Feeling connected to your university community can make a significant difference to your student experience. This section explores ways to get involved, meet new people, join activities, and access networks that help you feel welcomed and valued throughout your time at university.
Students’ Union societies
The Students’ Union offer societies, which are student-led and revolve around a vast range of interests and lived experiences. They also offer a variety of events, from club nights to crafternoons and quizzes, to bring together students in activities they enjoy. Visit the Student Union webpage for a full list of all societies and check out some examples below.
Islamic Society
The Islamic Society (ISoc) is run by students and supported by the Students’ Union. Its main aim is to provide a safe, friendly space for Muslim students to practice their faith, meet others, and feel part of a community.
What do they do?
Explore faith: ISoc helps students balance their studies with their spiritual and personal lives, offering guidance, encouragement and a listening ear. They also offer Tajweed classes for Brothers and Sisters.
Events and activities: From talks and workshops to social gatherings, the society creates opportunities to connect, learn, and relax in a light-hearted atmosphere. They regularly hold Brothers and Sisters event nights, such as Brothers Bowling and Sisters Craft Nights.
Community building: ISoc encourage belonging by bringing people together. They often hold social and community nights in collaboration with local mosques and societies from other universities.
Keep up to date with the Islamic Society on Instagram:
Our African and Caribbean society offers space for students who identify as African or Caribbean to come together and build community through a range of fun activities. The society have a dedicated WhatsApp chat so you can connect with students from similar backgrounds and use this to find out about a whole host of events. Throughout the past year the ACS has held relaxed events such as sip and paint sessions, themed board game and slumber party nights, as well as high-energy events such as big nights out, capture the flag and the ACS Courtroom, where students stood trial and played jury.
Keep up to date with the African and Caribbean Society on Instagram: @ehuacs
The Christian Union is made up of students from different backgrounds and denominations who share the goal to build community and provide opportunities for people to learn more about Christianity. It’s not only for Christians, but anyone curious about faith or looking for a supportive environment is encouraged to go along.
What do they do?
Weekly gatherings: the Christian Union hosts regular meetings where students can read the Bible together, discuss faith, and share experiences in a relaxed setting.
Events on campus: from guest talks to social evenings, CU runs activities that help students connect and explore big questions about life and faith.
The student life team is made up of staff members and current students, called Campus Connectors, who organise and promote university-wide events. From games cafes, Learn2Cook sessions and craft lounges, you can join the student life team to get connected, try new activities and meet a variety of people. You can see what’s available at any time via the Student Life Portal.
Faith and community
The Faith and Community Service is dedicated to ensuring all staff and students feel welcomed, supported and at home at Edge Hill. They offer pastoral and faith support through our Chaplaincy Service, which provides both a listening ear service and, for those who require it, support in your faith journey. They also welcome those wishing to simply explore matters of faith and spirituality, confidentially and without judgement or pressure. The team of Pastoral Supporters and Chaplains are there for people of all faiths and none.
There are two faith and reflection facilities on campus, one towards the front of Eastern Campus and one in Central Campus within The Hub. Both spaces are available for students of faiths to use and provide wudu facilities, prayer mats and religious texts.
There are also a variety of places of worship both in Ormskirk and further afield, check out the list below, and make sure to visit the Faith and Community webpages for the most up-to-date information.
Ormskirk
Ormskirk Parish Church
Church St, Ormskirk L39 3RD
15 minutes by bus, 25-minute walk.
Emmanuel Methodist Reform Church
38 Derby St, Ormskirk L39 2DE
15 minutes by bus, 25-minute walk.
Saint Anne’s RC Church
1 Prescot Rd, Ormskirk L39 4TG
15 minutes by bus, 25-minute walk.
Southport
Southport Mosque and Cultural Centre
102a Sussex Road, Southport, PR9 0SL
60 minutes by bus.
Lakeside Church
Fairway, Southport PR9 0LA
75 minutes by bus.
Liverpool
Liverpool Muslim Society Masjid Al-Rahma
29-31 Hatherley St, Liverpool L8 2TJ
90 minutes by bus and train.
Abdullah Quilliam Society
8-10 Brougham Terrace, Liverpool L6 1AE
90 minutes by bus and train.
Liverpool One Church
144 Richmond Row, Liverpool L3 3BL
80 minutes by bus and train.
Preston
Jamea Masjid (Preston Central Mosque)
Clarendon St, Preston PR1 3YN
90 minutes by bus and train.
Masjid-e-Salaam Preston
49 Watling St Rd, Fulwood, Preston PR2 8EA
90 minutes by bus and train.
Exploring the local area
There are great places to shop, relax, eat and drink throughout the local area, here’s a snapshot of just a few!
Liverpool
Raggas
58 Smithdown Rd, Toxteth, Liverpool L7 4JG
Citrus Cosmetics
First floor, 140 Great Charlotte St, St. Johns Precinct, Liverpool L1 1NA
YME Hair Salon
136 Market square, St John’s Ln, centre, Liverpool L1 1EY
Timi’s experience with the Students’ Union
During my first year at university, I joined the women’s rugby union team both on and off campus. This let me engage with not just students but members of the Ormskirk community whilst playing both friendly and competitive games. Another society I took part in outside of my course was the ACS (African and Caribbean Society). Through these two societies I found my footing and where I belong in university, engaging with people from other parts of the country and even the world and people with a similar background to me.
Through the Students’ Union I was able to create a society that I was interested in but didn’t exist at the university; EHU Gospel Choir. At the beginning of the year our society performed as part of the Welcome Week showcase and then again at the University’s first ever annual Christmas carol service that engaged with all of Ormskirk. The creation of the choir allowed other current students and even new students to find where they belong in the University, meeting new people and trying something new they wouldn’t have thought to try before and form friendships.
Get in touch
For more information about the support we offer students and any activities and programmes we run, please get in touch with our dedicated team. They will be happy to assist you.
