Whether you’re a new student or returning for your studies, explore our online induction to life at Sussex.

Begin at Sussex

Find out all the information needed to begin your journey as a Sussex student. The Begin at Sussex programme runs from Thursday 17 August to Friday 29 September 2023. You’ll learn everything you need to know and do, from before you arrive up until the end of your induction programme in Welcome Week. 

Explore all of the activities below. 

Overview of activities
DatesWhat’s happening
17 August-21 September Find out what to do before you arrive at Sussex.
7-9 September Make your transition to life as an undergraduate as smooth as possible by taking part in activities and talks before you arrive.
21-24 September Arrive on campus during Arrivals Weekend.
25-29 September Take part in a range of activities during Welcome Week.

Before you arrive

Check all our information and advice for new students to explore everything you need to know about life at Sussex. You will find support on things you need to do before you get here, such as registering, visa information and checking what to pack. There is also helpful guidance for international students who are new to the UK.

Find out what your travel options are if you’re arriving to Sussex from the airport.


Transitioning to university

Thursday 7 September to Saturday 9 September 2023

Get to know the University before you start. Each day will focus on a different theme, and you can attend talks, join workshops and take part in a range of activities. Places at this event are limited and prioritised for students from underrepresented groups. 

This event has now taken place.


Arrivals Weekend

Thursday 21 September to Sunday 24 September 2023

Once you’ve arrived you can pick up the keys for your accommodation, get set up on our wifi. Find out the key things you need to do when you arrive at Sussex.

We’re also hosting a range of free events across the weekend, including film nights, a garden party and board games. Explore what’s on over Arrivals Weekend


Welcome Week

Monday 25 September to Friday 29 September 2023.

Welcome Week is your induction programme of activities and events to support you as you start your journey as a Sussex student. You can learn about your course, explore our campus, find out what support is available and make new friends.

Checklist for new students

Not sure where to begin? Check out the new students checklist, which includes essential tasks, exciting activities and ways to look after your wellbeing. 

Welcome Week activities

You can choose from a range of activities during Welcome Week, including campus or city sightseeing tours, boundary walks and other fun events in the Wellbeing tent in Library Square. 

Check out the full Welcome Week schedule and book your place on any of the events.

You can also book a place at a careers workshop where you will find out where to look for part-time work and how to write a CV.

Not moving into university-managed accommodation? Come along to our off-campus Not Moving In welcome event.

Academic induction

There are also Welcome Week activities specific to the School you’re in. You will receive an email from your Head of School confirming which School you’ll be based in. Check out the Welcome Week timetable for your School:

If you’re a new postgraduate researcher, your Doctoral School induction will take place from Monday 2 to Friday 6 October. Find out more about the Doctoral School induction

Welcome Week guide

We’ll be handing out copies of our guide during Welcome Week, which includes lots of useful information such as term dates, housing and health and wellbeing. 

Download an accessible copy of the Welcome Week guide [PDF, 1.9MB].

Support for you

Visit the Student Centre to find out about the support and guidance available to you as a Sussex student. There will be a wide range of information stalls available each day, including housing, disability and international student advice. You will also be able to find out about extra opportunities you can get involved with during your time here, including paid activities.


Belong at Sussex

Once you’re settled in you can find out about Belong at Sussex, a series of events and activities that will help give you a sense of belonging during your studies. 

The programme welcomes all students, with many events open to all. Some activities throughout the year are also aimed at specific community groups.


More advice for new students

Find out what to do:

The Student Hub is your place for information and guidance throughout your studies.