Parents Hub | Guidance & Support | Unite Students

Preparing for Your Child’s University Journey

As parents, sending your child off to university can stir up a complex mix of emotions, from proud to terrified. With the Unite Students Parents’ Hub, you can prepare yourself (and your child) for this huge life change.

Learn more about what they can expect from university life, how to stay safe, and what support systems are in place to make the transition easier for everyone.

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Parents & guardians

How to come to terms with an empty nestThis year, hundreds of thousands of students have started university here in the UK. With that comes a lot of parents and guardians having to say goodbye, as their young person leaves home – often for the first time. It’s natural for parents and guardians to feel at a loss when this happens – even a sense of grief. In fact, according to a recent study of 1,000 UK parents who dropped their child off at university this autumn - 83% said it caused them extreme grief to do so.

ByDr Dominique Thompson

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Graduation day guide: What to do, wear and bringIt’s time to celebrate! Grab your gown and get ready to toss your cap to success with our graduation ceremony planning guide.

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Study & Careers

What is a careers fair? How to prepare and what to expectDeciding what you want to do after uni is a big decision. With so many choices and avenues to explore, it can be hard to know where to start.

6 December 2024

Photo of unsigned contract

Parents & guardians

Accommodation contracts explainedYou’re heading to uni and have finally decided on your student accommodation. Congrats! Now all that’s left is to sign your student tenancy agreement. But what exactly is it?

Parents sitting at breakfast bar

Parents & guardians

How parental income affects student finances at university: A guide for UK parentsAs a parent, sending your child off to university can be stressful and, for many, financing their new adventure can be one of the largest headaches. The sheer range of options available – including student loans, bursaries and grants – can seem daunting at first. It’s a good idea to first understand what your child is entitled to, and how your income will affect the amount they may be eligible for.

ByJack Williams

Graduate hugging parent

Parents & guardians

The parent’s guide to student accommodationAre your kids about to fly the nest for the next few years? It’s a big step – for them and for you. There’s a lot to think about when it comes to finding student accommodation and, if you want to give them the best start, you may want to help your child out.

Man in a wheelchair with woman

Parents & guardians

What’s uni life like for people with disabilities?Jumping into uni life can feel like a big leap in any circumstance – whether you’re thirty minutes from home, or several cities away. It comes with a lot of concerns and considerations, especially for disabled or neurodiverse students.

ByJack Williams

Student with a head on the desk

What happens if I drop out of university?University is a big adjustment, and many factors can determine if it’s right for you. This blog will talk you through how to drop out of university, whether you can transfer and more.

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Student support options to make living away from home easier for all.

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Learn everything you need to know about student finance with our helpful guide.

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Get top tips for personal safety at uni.

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Download the Health Assured app for free, confidential advice.

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Support For You

We want to help you settle into university life. Click below to find more useful resources and services which can help you access student mental health support, manage your finances and stay safe at university.

Visit our student support page

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