Moving away from home, whether it is to a new city or a new country, is a big step, and we understand how important it is to feel safe, settled, and supported from the very beginning. At Unilife, we are here to make your transition smooth, exciting, and stress free.
As a family run business, we genuinely care about each student’s experience. Our boutique sized buildings allow us to offer a personalised service. From your first enquiry to your arrival day and beyond, our friendly, dedicated team is with you every step of the way.
We do not just provide a studio, we create a welcoming environment where you can feel at home, make new friends, and thrive both academically and personally. Welcome to Unilife, your new home, your new beginning.
Once you have completed your booking and paid your deposit, your Property Manager will get in touch to introduce themselves and provide important move-in information. You will receive an email 45 days before your contract start date with instructions on how to book your check in time online.
If you would prefer to check in manually, please email us on yourspace@unilife.co.uk with your arrival date and time so we can book your appointment.
When completing your appointment check in, you will be asked if you require parking for your arrival appointment. You will be required to add the car registration and will be granted parking for one hour to allow you to unload.
Parking is available at Sparkford House and Riverside House only. For High Street and Bargate House, you will be able to park at Eastgate car park which is located behind the building.
Once you have booked your check in appointment, rest assured that a member of the Unilife team or your Property Manager will be there to personally welcome you on arrival.
They will help you get settled, answer any questions, and make sure everything is ready in your studio. From the moment you arrive, we are here to ensure you feel safe, supported, and right at home.
To ensure a smooth check in, please bring a valid photo ID (passport, driving licence, or national ID card).
We already have your ID and proof of studies on file from your booking, so we will simply cross reference your ID on arrival to confirm everything matches.
Once you have unpacked, your first step is to enrol with your university. Most universities offer a mix of online pre enrolment and in person registration, where you will confirm your details, show your visa (if applicable), and collect your student ID.
Your university will send you detailed instructions before your course starts, so be sure to check your emails regularly.
Need help finding your campus or student support team? The Unilife team is always here to point you in the right direction.
If you are an international student coming to study in the UK, you will need a Student visa (formerly Tier 4). You can apply for this once you’ve received a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from your university.
Please note that Unilife cannot provide direct visa or immigration advice. We recommend speaking to your university’s admissions or international student support team, as they can guide you through the process and answer any specific questions.
When you arrive in the UK, you will go through border control where you will need to show your passport, visa, and supporting documents. If you are required to collect a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP), details will be provided during your visa application process, typically to be collected within 10 days of arrival.
We are always happy to help with general arrival support, but for anything immigration, related, your university is the best place to go.
Once you have arrived in the UK, one of your first steps will be to enrol with your university. Most universities offer a mix of online pre enrolment and in person registration, where you will confirm your details, show your visa (if applicable), and collect your student ID.
If you are an international student, getting a UK SIM card should be one of your first priorities, your phone may not work properly in the UK without one. Having a local number will also make it easier to access university services, book appointments, and stay connected.
There are two main options:
Pay-as-you-go SIM. No contract or UK bank needed, ideal for getting started right away.
Monthly contract. Better value long term, but requires a UK bank account.
To make the process easier, you can book an appointment with your Property Manager who will show you the best places to get these set up in the city.
For international students, having a printed copy of your tenancy agreement is essential when arriving in the UK. It may be required at UK border force as proof of your accommodation, especially if asked about where you will be staying.
You will also need it to set up a phone contract and UK bank account. It will also be helpful for us when you arrive to check in to your Unilife property.
We strongly recommend printing your tenancy agreement before you travel, so you are fully prepared for arrival, registration, and settling in without delays.
If you are unsure or need to make changes, you can always contact your Property Manager directly or speak to our team via live chat, WhatsApp, or email.
Personalise your kitchenette and bedding with the leading supplier of university equipment in the UK, UniKitOut.
Book your appointment upon check out and your items will be delivered to your studio ahead of your arrival to the building.
Enter UNILIFE10 at the checkout for 10% off your purchase.
Checking in at Unilife is simple and stress free! Once you have completed your booking and paid your deposit, your Property Manager will get in touch to introduce themselves and provide important move-in information. You will receive an email 45 days before your contract start date with instructions on how to book your check in time online. When you arrive, our friendly team will be there to welcome you in person, show you around, and help you settle in.
Your arrival day is an exciting milestone, and we’re here to make it as smooth as possible. Whether you’re flying into Heathrow or Gatwick, driving with family, or arriving by train or bus, Unilife accommodations are easily accessible. We offer drop off parking in for quick unloading, and our properties are located in the city centres. Upon arrival, our friendly team will be there to greet you, assist with check in, and show you around, ensuring you feel at home from the moment you arrive.
From the moment you arrive, our team is here to support you, answer any questions, and help you settle into your new home. Explore your studio, communal spaces, and local area, meet your neighbours, and dive into our welcome events. The Unilife Welcome Party is the biggest night of the year, featuring a DJ, casino tables, photobooths, and more, the perfect way to make new friends and become part of our community!
University is more than just academics, it is about personal growth, new experiences, and building lifelong friendships. Getting involved in student societies is a great way to meet like minded people, develop new skills, and enhance your university experience. Whether it is sports, music, academic clubs, or cultural societies, joining a society can help you feel more connected and engaged. At Unilife, we encourage our residents to explore their passions, build a strong support network, and truly thrive during their time at university.
