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 how you'll learn at University blog post is a helpful guide. It also explains the different types of classes you could have.
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 through our Academic Skills Kit.
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
- 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 at Academic Skills Kit
Digital safety:
- your digital safety is important to us. Your IT Service provides guidance on information security
- you can receive help to develop your digital and information literacy skills
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. Guidance on how to do this is in the Academic Skills Kit.