Parents & guardians

Advice and information for the parents and guardians of young people going to university, or students living at university

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How to come to terms with an empty nest

This 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

2 March 2026

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Featured posts

Graduate hugging parent

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.

Parents & guardians posts

Students in the cinema room

The Parents’ guide to university clearingNot sure what university clearing is all about? Find out what parents need to know about clearing and how to support your child throughout the process.

Reception area at Quantum Court

Support options for struggling university studentsIt’s normal to face challenges at university – academically, socially, emotionally, or financially. But there are always support options available for students – whether you’re going through a hard time or just need some advice.

Students in the study area

How parents & guardians can support students' transition to university lifeThe first days at university are a big step – not just for your student, but for you too. While films might make it look like non-stop parties, the reality is usually more about learning flatmates’ names, finding the laundry room, and tracking down the nearest supermarket. Here’s how we help new students settle in – and a few simple ways you can support them before they go.

ByJack Williams

17 February 2026

Man in a wheelchair with woman

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

Students in the meeting room

How to avoid uni accommodation scams: A guide for UK studentsYour university experience should be filled with new lessons, exciting ventures, and fond memories — not derailed by a uni accommodation scam. According to the National Fraud Intelligence Bureau, young people between 18 and 39 account for nearly three-quarters of rental fraud cases.

Students in the Courtyard

Can You Change or Cancel Accommodation at Uni?Unsure about your current living situation? Learn how to change or cancel uni accommodation and more about the Unite Students cancellation policy.

Students greeting a member of US Staff

How Parental Income Affects Student Loans & FinancesUnderstanding uni costs as a parent can be overwhelming. Learn how student loans are affected by parents’ income and how much university costs parents.

ByJack Williams

Student on laptop in the library

How to apply for university in the UK: A step-by-step guideApplying to uni isn’t as daunting as you might think. Discover how to apply for university in the UK for both local & international students in our guide.

ByJack Williams