Student support

The Information Centre is your single point of contact for all student support services. Available through phone, online chat, or in-person visits at our four campus libraries, the Centre offers:

• Assistance with library and course support queries.
• General advice on accommodation, funding, and visa issues.
• Support with disability services and overall student wellbeing.

If your query requires specialist assistance, the Centre will connect you with the appropriate department or advisor.

We prioritise your health and wellbeing through flexible and confidential services tailored to your needs.

• One-to-one counselling: Professional support for personal challenges, available by appointment or during drop-in sessions.
• Online resources: Access to self-help guides and virtual support tools.
• On-campus NHS surgery: Located at Penrhyn Road, our NHS facility provides:
  • General health consultations.
  • Complementary therapies, including aromatherapy, massage therapy, osteopathy, reflexology and sports massage.

Your mental and physical wellbeing is integral to your success, and we’re here to ensure you feel supported every step of the way.

Kingston’s diverse community celebrates students from all cultural and spiritual backgrounds. We offer:

• Faith-based societies: Join one of our many student groups to connect with others who share your beliefs.
• Multi-faith prayer spaces: Accessible facilities for worship or quiet reflection on campus.
• Faith and spirituality team: Dedicated support to help you explore places of worship both within the University and the local area.

Find out more on our places of worship in the community page.

My Kingston, the University’s intranet, is your go-to platform for information and updates, including:

• Faculty-specific news and resources.
• Your personal timetable and library access.
• Information on accommodation and support services.
• Updates from the Union of Kingston Students.
• This one-stop digital resource keeps you informed and connected

The Kingston Students' Union (KSU) is an independent student body that represents and advocates for your interests. Key services include:

• Academic advice: Free support from professional advisers to navigate academic challenges
• Student representation: Opportunities to get involved in decision-making processes that affect your university experience

Our dedicated visa advisers are here to assist international students with a variety of needs, such as:

• Understanding and applying for student visas.
• Guidance on working in the UK during or after your studies.
• Advice on travelling abroad and adjusting to life in the UK.

We recognise the unique challenges international students face and are committed to helping you navigate them smoothly.

We understand the importance of equal opportunities, and our tailored services ensure that students with disabilities, specific learning differences, or long-term health conditions can fully benefit from university life.

Key support includes:

• Specialised workstations: Accessible facilities in Learning Resources Centres (LRCs)
• Adapted accommodation: Housing designed to meet your specific needs
• Study assistance: Access to specialist IT equipment, assistive software and additional academic support
• Financial aid: Support through disability allowances to assist with university expenses
• Accessible parking: Designated parking spaces for disabled students

Our dedicated disability advisers are available to guide you on academic, financial or living requirements.

From screenings to assistive technologies, our support team ensures that students with disabilities or learning differences have equal opportunities to succeed.

The Head Start programme is an orientation initiative designed to help underrepresented groups transition into higher education. The programme includes a series of events from July to September to prepare students for university life.

Eligibility criteria include:

• Being the first in your family to attend university.
• Mature students aged 21 or older without a bachelor’s degree.
• Annual household income below £25,000.
• Students with disabilities or specific learning differences.
• Care leavers or estranged students under 25.
• Young adult carers or Sanctuary Scholarship recipients.
• Students entering higher education with a BTEC qualification.

If you’re unsure about your eligibility, complete the application form, and we’ll do our best to accommodate you.

Learn more about the programme by getting in touch:

Yorkon Building
Room 0018
Kingston University
Kingston Hill
Kingston upon Thames
KT2 7LB

• Email: headstart@kingston.ac.uk
• Facebook: @kuheadstart
• Instagram: kuheadstart

Mature students form an integral part of Kingston’s vibrant community, comprising approximately 38% of the student population. Our tailored resources help you balance academic goals with personal responsibilities.

Key benefits include:

• Head Start access: A smooth transition into university life
• Flexible study options: Part-time study opportunities to fit around work and family commitments
• Childcare provision: Access to our on-campus nursery, providing peace of mind for parents

Join the Mature Students’ Society or participate in the Mature Students’ Forum for peer support and networking.

Kingston University was one of the first institutions to receive a Quality Mark from Buttle UK, recognising our commitment to supporting care leavers.

Through KU Cares, you’ll receive:

• A £1,500 annual bursary: Distributed in three termly installments
• Priority accommodation: Guaranteed spots in university halls
• Tailored guidance: Assistance with admissions, transitioning into higher education, and building social connections
• Attend social events: Connect with others and grow in confidence

At Kingston University, we believe that every student deserves the chance to succeed. From tailored support to accessible resources, we’re here to help you make the most of your university experience.