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Preparing to Study

We have lots of helpful information to help prepare you for studying in this section.

Registration

Registering at the University is the most important task you need to do.

You should begin the process before term starts. If you're not from Newcastle, please start it before you arrive.

Our helpful start your registration page guides you through the steps and what you need to do.


Understanding the types of classes and how we support you

Studying at University may be very different from studying you have already done. At university:

  • you’re expected to learn with a far greater independence than you have before. Adjusting to this expectation can be challenging
  • there’s a lot more freedom, and with greater freedom comes greater responsibility

Our Get Ready to Study information is designed to help you learn essential skills for studying at university.


Induction

Your induction takes place at the beginning of term, usually in your first week. You:

  • must attend your School induction activities
  • will find your induction activities and expectations will be unique to your School

Our inductions page lists all School induction information pages. The School will:

  • give you the dates and times for the sessions you must attend
  • confirm if the events and activities are online or in person

You must also complete the 2024 Newcastle University Induction online in Canvas.

All students will:

  • receive the link to this online course during your School induction. This course covers essential information to keep you safe
  • need to complete this at the beginning of every academic year

Digital information and academic digital support

Our student IT guide explains the key software you will use. It also explains how to get IT.support.

Some key information to get you started is below:

Canvas is Newcastle University's Virtual Learning Environment (VLE). It is an online learning platform. Most students will use Canvas for:

  • course content
  • study materials
  • module and programme information
  • submitting the majority of your assessments
  • receiving marks and feedback

All students have access to Canvas. You can log in using your university username and password once you are registered. Learn more about Canvas on our dedicated Canvas Orientation page. 

Digital technology:

  • you will have access to other digital technologies that will support your learning
  • ReCap allows you to view your lectures and other videos within Canvas
  • NUReflect allows you to reflect on your learning

Digital skills:

  • are the skills you need to study, work in and make sense of the digital world
  • develop your digital skills using the Academic Skills Kit

Digital safety:

Newcastle University Student Portal

The Student Portal helps you to manage your student life:

  • view your timetable
  • manage your library account
  • find a PC on campus and much more

Artificial intelligence

If you use artificial intelligence during your studies you must do so responsibly. Our Artificial Intelligence and Your Learning Guide will help you do this. 


Career Navigator

Navigating the job market can be challenging, whether you're looking in the UK or internationally. More students are also seeking part-time work. To help you succeed, we recommend exploring the Career Navigator platform before you arrive.

By using this resource, you can:

  • Discover what the Careers Service can offer
  • Learn how to gain experience while you study
  • Understand the different stages of the recruitment process
  • Access resources available for international students