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www.manchester.ac.uk
Parents and suPPorters
Guide
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Welcome tothe university of ManChester
at present your son or daughter is on what we call ‘the applicant journey’, an exciting journey that is likely to have highs and lows. Choosing and applying to university, surviving the examsnecessary to get there and settling into a new andunfamiliar environment can be a difficult time andwe believe that young people need all the supportthey can get. at Manchester we value the vital roleyou as parents, relatives and carers play at allstages in this journey, from supporting younglearners when choosing a university and courseright through to leaving home and settling into university.
We strongly believe that our undergraduatecourses will give your son or daughter an amazinguniversity experience, rooted in a rich heritage.they will have opportunities within and outside oftheir course to help them grow academically,personally and professionally. the university of
Manchester enjoys a reputation for pioneeringresearch and innovation, which vitalise ourundergraduate courses and will introduce your son or daughter to the latest thinking in theirchosen field. Part of the prestigious russell Group of universities, with outstanding facilitiesand the widest range of courses, we are highlyrespected across the globe as a centre of teaching excellence.
We hope that this guide will provide you withinformation about university life at Manchester,the benefits of studying here, what your son ordaughter can expect should they choose to studyat Manchester, as well as information to help andsupport them on their journey to university.
Mike GibbonsDirector of Student Recruitment and International Development
We understand that choosing a university is one ofthe most important decisions your son or daughterwill ever have to make. Going to university is anexciting chapter in every student’s life, but it can be a daunting prospect for students, parents andsupporters alike.
Please note: the terms ‘parent’ and ‘son or daughter’ have been used throughout the guide, werecognise that students live with step-parents, foster parents, grand-parents, guardians and carers. the terms ‘parent’ and ‘son or daughter’ have been used to describe the student who is consideringuniversity or the person/s who carries out a parenting/supportive role for the person who isconsidering higher education.
Welcome to the UnIveRSIty of mancheSteR 2
InnovatIve teachIng anD leaRnIng 4
acaDemIc facIlItIeS anD SUppoRt 11
accommoDatIon 15
a BRIght fUtURe – gRaDUate caReeRS 18
SpoRtS anD SocIetIeS 19
StUDentS’ UnIon 20
StUDy aBRoaD 21
the cIty of mancheSteR 22
Safety anD SecURIty In mancheSReR 23
money anD fInance 24
the mancheSteR Welcome 26
applyIng to mancheSteR: the applIcatIon pRoceSS 27
UnIveRSIty JaRgon BUSteR 30
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contentS
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our innovative teaching methods andhigh-tech learning environment make for an undergraduate experience that is uniquely manchester. Students aretaught by real experts, underpinned by internationally significant research and strong industrial links. Your son ordaughter will be taught by some of thebest minds in the country who are world-leaders in their field.
We offer students flexible, multidisciplinarycourses that they can tailor to their interestsand career ambitions. all our courses aredivided into units, some of which may beoptional. the range of optional course unitstypically increases as they progress, oftenincluding units from other courses, ordelivered by other parts of the university.
our courses aim to challenge students’preconceptions and give them a greaterunderstanding of what it means to be aresponsible global citizen. our ManchesterLeadership Programme could form part ofyour son or daughter’s degree, blendingcommunity volunteering with a course unitthat explores topics such as ethical leadershipand social responsibility.
We offer students personalised learning thatputs them at the heart of their academicexperience along with fantastic facilities.these include our state-of-the-art alanGilbert Learning Commons and our virtuallearning environment which gives studentsstudy materials and activities online, as well as interactive sessions with staff and other students.
our university College units allow students tobroaden their horizons and dip their toe intodifferent disciplines. drawing on the bestteaching talent across the university, studentscan take units that showcase Manchester’sresearch and challenge conventional thinking –exactly what university is all about.
We offer students an education thatencourages independent critical thinking andanalysis. students will be assessed on the skillsthat employers value, such as how to work aspart of a team, make presentations and tackleproblems creatively. We offer courses thatreflect the needs of industry and business toensure students acquire the skills andknowledge necessary to flourish within theirchosen career.
InnovatIve teachInganD leaRnIng
TEACHING METHODS AND MATERIALS
We’re committed to excellence in teaching andproviding the very best learning environments and materials for students. At university the waystudents learn may be different from at school orcollege. How they are taught will largely depend on their course content, level of study and theiracademic staff.
A stronger emphasis is placed on teaching studentsto apply information. this might mean being askedto answer questions where there’s no right or wronganswer, but scope for opinion and debate. they willbe encouraged to read widely, to question andanalyse what they have read, and to discuss openlytheir own ideas in seminars and tutorials.
the main teaching and learning methods are:
lectures
A lecture is normally a presentation ordemonstration designed to give students anoverview of a topic. Generally the lecturer willaddress the audience and students would notnormally ask questions in the middle of the lecture,though there is often an opportunity for students to do so at the end. our biggest lecture theatre islocated in university Place and can hold up to 600people – lectures are usually delivered to quite large groups.
Seminars and tutorials
compared with a lecture, a seminar or tutorialinvolves much smaller groups of students. Similarly,the session is often led by an academic tutor orguest speaker and can involve a presentation, butthe format is normally much more informal andpromotes open discussion around specific topics or theories.
Independent study
Students will be expected to take responsibility fortheir own learning and they will need to manage theirtime effectively to fit this around their academictimetable and any other activities that they areinvolved in. Studying independently doesn’tnecessarily mean they will be studying on their ownas there are plenty of opportunities to study ingroups and many of our courses actively promotepeer mentoring and peer-assisted study schemes.
laboratory and practical learning
learning by doing is an essential part of manycourses, particularly if students are studying ascience, engineering or health-related degree.these sessions aim to give students an insight intoa working environment, knowledge of experimentalmethods and techniques and an understanding ofacademic material taught on the course.
InnovatIve teachInganD leaRnIng
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elearning
many courses include online components, which are often an assessed part of their degree. theuniversity of manchester has a virtual learningenvironment called Blackboard. this meansstudents might study online using material createdby their lecturers, download papers and take onlinetests, or access relevant audio and video material.
ASSESSMENT METHODS
the main assessment methods are:
continuous assessment
most courses will involve some form of continuousassessment of students. this means that marksobtained for essays, projects and laboratory workduring the year are taken into account whendeciding their final mark.
examinations and assessments
examinations are probably the most importantmethod of assessment students will face atuniversity and knowing how to deal with them is anessential skill that they will need to develop. examscan be daunting, but it is important to know thatthere is plenty of support available to them in therun up to assessment periods.
in addition there are many other forms ofassessment that students might experience,including presentations, assignments, research or portfolios.
field trips
Fieldwork or field trips can be a compulsory elementof some courses. Similar to laboratory and practicalwork, fieldwork can help students put their theoreticalknowledge into practice. trips can range from one-daysessions to longer, more in-depth expeditions, in theuK and abroad, that allow students to explore specificareas or learn particular techniques.
problem-based/enquiry-based learning
Problem-based learning (PBl) or enquiry-basedlearning (eBl) has traditionally been used by themanchester medical School and has now beenadopted by many other disciplines across theuniversity. PBl or eBl groups are presented with areal-life problem or scenario and students need towork as a team to investigate potential solutionswhile identifying what skills or knowledge they needto effectively manage the situation.
projects/Dissertations
depending on the type of degree your son ordaughter is doing, they may do a major project ordissertation which will generally be in their final year.in some cases they may be asked to give a formalpresentation on the results of their project.
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LEARNING THROUGH RESEARCH
At manchester, outstanding research is at the core of what we do – and we value the ability of ourundergraduate students to make a contribution to our goals.
that's why, on many of our undergraduate courses,students will be given the chance to get involved inresearch, whether that's deciphering official data,accessing centuries-old resources from ourmuseum and library collections, or performingliterature reviews to uncover new perspectives thatchallenge the norm.
these opportunities give your son or daughter thechance to be involved in work that can have a realimpact beyond their degree, as well as equippingthem with the analytical skills that will help them takethe next step – whether that's into their new careeror as a continuing student.
LEARNING SUPPORT
We will give students individual learning support tohelp them take control of their learning and developtheir confidence.
peer mentoring
Peer mentor schemes are support structures led by students, for students. the schemes aim to givestudents a sense of belonging and identity with the university and ultimately, to enhance theirstudent experience.
Peer mentors are higher-year students on the samedegree programme as them, who will help your sonor daughter find their feet when they arrive here andadjust to student life. As Peer mentors have alreadybeen a student at manchester for at least a year,they should be able to help your son or daughterwith any non-academic matters they might beworried or unsure about – they’re an invaluablesource of information, knowledge and resources, sowe recommend students make the most of them.
Peer mentors will often organise activities andworkshops to support students with a specific issue.they’ll also set up social events to help everyone getto know each other a little better and to introducestudents to manchester as a city.
Peer mentoring schemes are available in most Schools.
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academic advisers
At the university of manchester everyundergraduate student is assigned an academicadviser; a member of academic staff who is there togive advice about any academic issues throughoutthe duration of their course.1
Your son or daughter’s adviser will be able to helpthem with the transition from school or college touniversity – and help them get to grips with studyingand learning more independently. they'll also beable to help them develop their skills in academicwriting or research, or any other skills that arespecific to their degree programme.
As well as giving your son or daughter academicadvice, they are there to help them tackle practicalissues that they may need support with, such asregistration for course units, exam preparation andtime management.
We hope students will build a lasting relationshipwith their academic adviser during their time here,and that they will approach them with any questionthey might have about their course, their study orany aspect of their work.
peer assisted Study Sessions (paSS)
Students at the university of manchester may havethe opportunity to take part in PASS sessions withintheir School, to support study and learning.
the sessions are led by volunteer students (PASS leaders) studying the same subject, who act as facilitators.
Sessions will often be based around a specific areaof study. Students have the opportunity toconsolidate and build on their existing knowledgethrough discussion with other students in aninformal and supportive environment, where theycan compare notes, analyse, criticise, ask questionsand talk through ideas. PASS sessions encourageactive learning in an informal, friendly and funenvironment to complement more formal teaching,such as lectures and seminars.
For many years the university of manchester'sPASS programme has been recognisedinternationally as the uK benchmark of this type oflearning, and is now formally recognised as the uKPASS National centre.
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1 While we aim to assign one academicadviser to each student throughout theirstudies, in certain circumstances astudent’s adviser will change as theyprogress through their course.additionally, students can request achange of academic adviser at any time.
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our excellence in teaching is underpinned by animpressive range of world-class academic facilitiesand support services.
acaDemIc facIlItIeSanD SUppoRt
FACILITIES We have invested in a wealth of central anddiscipline-specific facilities. the following are some examples:
the alan gilbert learning commons (aglc)
this iconic £24 million building was designed withpartners across the university and in consultationwith the Students’ union. the space has beencreated specifically to support the needs of futuregenerations of students, using technology designedto enrich the university experience. Students arefree to use the facilities as they choose, in groupstudy, independent study, or simply for quiet time.
the AGlc is run by the university library, with adedicated team of staff able to offer help andsupport with all facilities. it’s open 24/7 and offers a flexible, ultra-modern and stimulating space inwhich to learn and relax. cutting-edge it facilities, a range of flexible learning spaces and a host of student-centred services are all available within its walls.
my learning essentials
my learning essentials is our comprehensiveprogramme of online resources, workshops andskills clinics designed to help your son or daughter to develop their academic and employability skills.
Workshops and skills clinics are held at various timesthroughout the academic year and online resourcesare available at all times, providing flexible supportfor their academic study from undergraduate topostgraduate level and beyond.
the my learning essentials programme is run by the university library in collaboration with otherservices across campus. most of the face-to-facesessions take place at the Alan Gilbert learningcommons and the main library.
libraries
With continuous investment in an academic librarythat is one of the biggest in the uK, and extensivecross-campus it facilities, we ensure that a wealthof resources are available to help students studysuccessfully.
the university of manchester library is one of the uK’sbest-resourced academic libraries with more than 4 million printed books and manuscripts, over 41,000electronic journals, 500,000 e-books and severalhundred databases. in addition there are site librariesspread across campus for students’ convenience.
For more information on the library facilities atmanchester see www.manchester.ac.uk/library
It and computing facilities
We have one of the largest academic computingfacilities in europe, including:
acaDemIc facIlItIeSanD SUppoRt
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almost 4,000 pcs across campus
ethernet connections in all halls of residence rooms
Wireless access to the Internet from the main campus
the Blackboard virtual learning environment and dedicated It support.
for more information on It and computing facilities at manchester see:www.itservices.manchester.ac.uk
Supporting our students
there may be times during your son or daughter’sstudies when they feel they need some help oradvice. Students will be assigned their own ‘personal tutor’ who will provide them with supportthroughout their time studying at manchester. the university also provides a range of centralsupport services, including:
Student Services centre and the atrium
located at the heart of the campus, the StudentServices centre (SSc) is the central point of contactfor all administrative and support services oncestudents enrol at the university. From registrationand fees to exams and graduation, our friendly staff in the SSc will be on hand to help your son or daughter.
Students are able to make use of the Atrium, abrand new, multifunctional space in our universityPlace building where they can access information,guidance and advice, or simply find a quiet haven tocheck emails and squeeze in some extra study time.located on the first floor of university Place,students can book appointments or attend drop-insessions with the Student Support Adviser and theStudent money Adviser as well as other specialistadvisers to chat to them about careers,volunteering, managing money, internationalprogrammes, and support and well-being .
in addition to the Atrium, students can make use ofthe iZone, located on the Ground Floor of universityPlace, which offers information and take-awaymaterials. there is a coordinated calendar of eventsand activities taking place at various times duringthe week throughout the first and second semesteron subjects like well-being, personal safety,choosing accommodation and helping students to make decisions to make the most of their time at manchester.
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the Disability Support office, which will helpstudents who have additional needs arising from a medical condition, a physical or sensory disability, a specific learning difficulty,such as dyslexia, or a mental health problem that affects their study
the counselling Service, which providesprofessional and confidential counselling forstudents with personal problems affecting their work or sense of well-being
the Students’ Union advice Service, with full-time advisers who can assist with issuessuch as housing or finance.
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With approximately 8,000 single studybedrooms in 23 different halls ofresidence, the university of manchesteroffers a variety of living environments, sowhatever accommodation your son ordaughter prefers, it is likely that they willfind it in manchester.
accommoDatIonWhat IS avaIlaBle?
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ACCOMMODATION INCLUDES
fully catered halls (meals provided) or self-catered halls (providing your own meals)
Single-sex and mixed-sex options
en-suite accommodation or shared-bathroom facilities
traditional halls or modern residences.
for an overview of the halls please visit: www.accommodation.manchester.ac.uk/consideringmanchester/ouraccommodation/typesofaccommodation
THE ACCOMMODATION GUARANTEEthe university of manchester guarantees a place ina university owned (or managed) hall of residence toevery student in their first year of study provided they:
if they fall outside of these conditions, do not worry;the Accommodation office is likely to be able toassist them in finding a room, and if not, our staff willadvise them of the other available options.
accommodation Zones
the university has three accommodation zones:city campus, Victoria Park and Fallowfield.
City Campus is the most centrally located of thethree. if your son or daughter wishes to be situatedclose to the city centre, this is the place to be.
victoria Park offers a quieter environment, only tenminutes’ walking distance from the heart of theuniversity campus and less than five minutes fromthe lively cosmopolitan suburb of Rusholme.
fallowfield has a great social atmosphere and iswhere many students choose to be based.Frequent buses connect it with the universitycampus and city centre. it is approximately two milesfrom the university campus.
hall facilities
Whichever residence your son or daughter decideupon, all university housing includes their own studybedroom, equipped with a bed, desk, chair, wardrobeand shelving for their study materials. All hallsprovide free internet access.
self-catered residences include dining areas andkitchens equipped with cookers, fridge-freezers,microwaves and kettles.
Catered halls include areas where snacks can be prepared.
All halls have on-site laundries.
Halls provide a focus for student social life, with hallsocieties active in music, drama, sport and otheractivities. Some halls have specific amenities suchas computer clusters and sports facilities.
Support and Security in University accommodation
unique to university-owned halls, each hall has anassigned warden and a team of residential tutors.on-call in each residence, they provide welfaresupport and guidance whenever required.
All halls of residence have swipe-card accesssystems, and each accommodation area has anextensive cctV network and 24-hour security.
accommoDatIon
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are coming to university alone
are studying for their first degree
have submitted an application foraccommodation by 31 august of the year of entry
have met the conditions of their offerby 31 august.
Internet facilities
one of the great advantages of universityaccommodation is that the majority of bedroomshave a 10mbps broadband ethernet connection.this means that students can connect theircomputer to the university’s network and getaccess to the internet, email, games servers, librarycatalogues, online journals and massive range ofsoftware. there is also dedicated it support in casethey have any problems connecting to the service.
accommodation after your first year
After the first year of study students are welcome tore-apply for university accommodation. uK/eustudents are not guaranteed accommodation afterthe first year but may still re-apply and a substantialproportion of them manage to secure a room inhalls. Approximately 10% of accommodation isreserved for returning students.
many students however prefer to look foraccommodation with friends in the private sector;the university recommends that students make useof manchester Student Homes.
manchester Student Homes (mSH) is theuniversity’s only officially approved housing bureau.Based in Fallowfield and accessible via their website,mSH serves manchester’s student community byproviding information on good quality, well managedproperties available in the private sector. the mSHcode of Standards is aimed at promoting goodpractice and raising the standards of privately rentedaccommodation. on behalf of the university, mSHalso operates a leased housing scheme. under thescheme, the university leases properties fromprivate sector landlords, which are then sub-let to students.
For more information on university leased Housingand all other mSH services please visit:www.manchesterstudenthomes.com
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opportunities. this will help your son or daughter toenhance their employability through gaining valuablework experience.
Students also have the opportunity to be mentoredby the best in their field. our award-winningmentoring programme, manchester Gold, provides access to more than 500 mentoringopportunities, with representatives from companiesincluding Goldman Sachs, Rolls-Royce, HSBc,Pricewaterhousecoopers and iBm. our mentoringprogramme also puts students in touch withinternational alumni across the globe.
For further information please visitwww.manchester.ac.uk/careers/mentoring
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one of the reasons your son or daughtermay be considering coming to the universityof manchester is to improve their careerprospects. the university of manchester isconsistently voted as one of the mosttargeted universities in the uK.1
a BRIght fUtURe –gRaDUate caReeRS
With almost 4,000 recruiters advertising jobs,exhibiting at fairs and presenting on our campus,these surveys support our reputation foroutstanding and highly employable graduates.
We are very proud of our highly regarded universitycareers service.
Students who study at manchester are offeredexciting opportunities to meet recruiters andenhance their employability. We have long-standingrelationships with leading multinational recruiters,who participate in many of our careers events andworkshops to develop in students those all-important skills, such as leadership, team-workingand demonstrating initiative.
our careers service offers students the option tomeet with specialist careers consultants forprofessional advice, skills training and guidance tohelp them plan their career. We advertiseinternships, part-time jobs and volunteering
1 the Graduate Market in 2014 an annual review of graduate vacancies and startingsalaries at Britain’s leading employers – high fliers research Ltd.
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manchester is a city with a worldwidesporting reputation, and your son ordaughter will find plenty of ways to getinvolved here at the university.
SpoRtS anDSocIetIeS
SPoRt manchester offers students the opportunityto participate in sport and fitness activities at anylevel, from fun instructor-led courses for thecomplete beginner to sport scholarships for eliteathletes and everything in between, all with the aim of manchester students living a happy andhealthy lifestyle.
the university’s Athletic union consists of morethan 40 student led sports clubs across 37 sportsrepresenting the university in the British universitiesand colleges Sport leagues (BucS). other sportsactivities on campus include:
SPORT FACILITIES AT MANCHESTER
the legacy of the manchester commonwealthGames is visible across the city and on campus withmany world-class facilities, including manchesterAquatics centre, manchester Velodrome andSportcity, all within easy reach. there are three mainsports centres on campus, all with excellent fitnesssuites and a range of indoor and outdoor facilities.
more information can be found on our websitewww.sport.manchester.ac.uk/facilities
campus Sport leagues, six leagues coveringfive sports, with more than 300 teams fromhalls and academic Schools playing each other on a weekly basis
hall Sport, which provides beginner sessionsfor students living in University accommodation
active manchester enrolment classes;including Zumba, pilates, yoga, hula hoop for beginners, belly dancing and lots more
the Sport volunteer Scheme, which linksregistered students with sports-relatedvolunteering opportunities across the city,enhancing personal skills in the aid ofdeveloping their employability.
for more information on SpoRt manchesterplease visit www.manchester.ac.uk/sport
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the university of manchester’sStudents’ union is an organisation for all students at the university.Autonomous from the university anddemocratically controlled by students,the union is one of the most active inthe country. it offers students:
StUDentS’ UnIon
over 400 societies catering for all interests, talents and hobbies
volunteer groups that give students the opportunity to get involved in a wide range of activities outside their studies including working with adults with learning difficulties, running social events for elderly people and taking foodto homeless people around manchester
the opportunity to work on creative and media projects including the mancunion, the student newspaper, fuse fm, the University’sstudent radio station, and fUSe tv, our student-run tv station
the opportunity to stand as an elected studentrepresentative in academic, liberation and specific interest roles, and make a real change to the lives of University of manchester students.
you can find out more about the Students’ Union by visiting our website -www.manchesterstudentsunion.com
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our study abroad programme offersstudents the exciting opportunity toexperience life in a different country aspart of their course. Students who optin to this programme regularly tell usthat studying abroad has been thehighlight of their degree, from both apersonal and an academic perspective.
StUDy aBRoaD
manchester offers the widest range and highestcalibre of partner universities for Study Abroadprogrammes, including some of the top universitiesin the world – with no additional tuition fees forstudents. Students do not need to be studying aforeign language to be able to study abroad. themajority of our undergraduate degree programmesallow students to participate in exchangeProgrammes. When and where students can study abroad depends on the course they havechosen to study.
Benefits of studying abroad as part of a degreeprogramme include:
Students have the opportunity to go on an erasmusexchange Programme in europe or a Worldwideexchange Programme to universities in the uSA,canada, Australia, Hong Kong, Singapore, South Korea, latin America and New Zealand, for one semester or a full academic year.
For more information on study abroad as part ofyour degree programme please seewww.manchester.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/expanding-study/study-abroad
Improves graduate job prospects
Broadens students’ horizons and allowsstudents to experience new cultures
gives students the opportunity to make new friends from all over the world
Improves and develops students’ language skills.
the cIty ofmancheSteRthe university is at the heart of the mostpopular student city in the uK, and we’re sureit will feel like home for your son or daughtershould they choose to come to manchester.With events, facilities and attractions to suitevery lifestyle, manchester is known as alively, culturally diverse city which is easy toenjoy on a student budget.
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With its huge variety of activities and attractionsincluding museums and galleries, music andentertainment venues, sporting events, not tomention being known as the shopping capital of theNorth West. manchester has something to offereveryone, and will never leave your son or daughtershort of things to do.
manchester is also a very accessible city. Shouldyour son or daughter need a break from theirstudies, there are plenty of green areas to explore inand outside the city. With an international airportnearby, excellent road and rail links with the rest ofthe uK, manchester is one of the most accessiblecities in the country and the perfect base forexploring the rest of the uK and beyond.
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Safety anDSecURIty InmancheSteRAt manchester, we take the safety ofour students very seriously. that’s whywe invest in security technology, trainour staff to provide practical safetyadvice and support, and maintainexcellent relationships with local police.
manchester, in common with all cities, doesexperience crime. However, the levels here are no higher than in other major cities across Britainand the world. With our advice and support,students can live sensibly and safely, enjoying all the benefits of city living to the full.
We have invested more than £800,000 insecurity, including a cctV system covering ourteaching campus and all halls of residence.
Students living in halls of residence also havepossessions insurance automatically included inthe cost of their room.
Soon after moving into halls of residence, allstudents are advised by their pastoral adviser, and often by the local police service, of the simpleprecautions they can take to protect themselvesand their possessions.
We advise our students on being streetwise. Simplemeasures, such as avoiding the obvious use ofsmartphones and mP3 players, and avoiding walkinghome alone at night, can greatly reduce vulnerabilityto crime.
Students living in private residences are stronglyadvised to ensure that their property has adequatelocks and an alarm system. if they choose to bring abicycle or car to university, they should ensure it hasadequate locks.
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money anD fInance Parents and supporters of students may beconcerned about student finance and the cost ofyour son or daughter attending university. However,it is important to understand that uK students donot have to find the money for university fees upfront – and many students may also be entitled tonon-repayable grants and bursaries from thegovernment and/or the university.
TUITION FEESFor information of the tuition fees at the universityof manchester for home undergraduate studentsplease visit www.manchester.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/student-finance
most uK students do not have to pay their feeswhile studying – eligible students can take out atuition fee loan from the government.
there are various amounts of support available from the government. For further information onsupport available from the uK government, visitwww.gov.uk/student-finance
COST OF LIVINGmanchester is an affordable and cosmopolitan city,home to more than 80,000 students who are oftenliving on a limited budget. therefore shops andbusinesses are used to catering for people on suchbudgets and students can get some really greatdeals if they are prepared to shop around.
the city’s affordable cost of living makes it an idealchoice for those who want to enjoy a major city on a budget. it is consistently shown to be one of thecheapest places in the uK for students to live.
Below is a breakdown of spending for the averagemanchester student for one academic year.
ESTIMATED LIVING COSTS 2015/16
COSTSUNDERGRADUATE(40 WEEKS)
accommodation (average cost for self-catering halls)
£4,995
Meals £1,525
Books and stationery (depending on your course,and if you buy new or secondhand)
£420
Clothes £400
Local transport £450
other general living expenses (e.g. photocopyingand printing, laundry, phonecalls, consumables,entertainment, sports,cooking equipment etc.)
£1,600
TOTAL £9,500
these estimates are based on average annual expenditure of an undergraduate single student on a full-time course. for catered accommodation (breakfast and dinner on weekdays), add approximately £350 to the total.
these costs are intended as a guide only. some courses will require students to pay for specific items, materials or activities not covered in the tuition fees, such as field courses. in these cases the university endeavours to keep these additional costs as low as possible.
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BUDGETINGFor many people entering university, money can be a major consideration. Student finance can be confusing for parents and supporters ofundergraduate students, as well as for studentsthemselves. Advance preparation can help set good budgeting habits for the duration of astudent’s degree.
We recommend that students arrange studentfinance early. As a parent and supporter, you canhelp your son or daughter by ensuring that theyapply for finance once they’ve applied to university,to make sure it’s in place for the start of term.
Sit down with your son or daughter and go throughthe student finance application together, ensuringthat you provide all the information with regard toparental income, so that they can complete the application and avoid any delays.
For further information on support available fromthe uK government, visit www.gov.uk/student-finance
For information on scholarship and bursarypackages at manchester, visitwww.manchester.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/student-finance
more than a third of all students who successfullyapply to study here receive a bursary. At manchesterwe are proud to offer one of the most generousscholarship and bursary packages in the uK. Werecommend that you research the help that may beavailable to your son or daughter at each of the fiveuniversities they are applying to, as scholarship andbursary packages vary greatly between institutions.
Banking and managing money
encourage your son or daughter to open a bankaccount before they leave for university, which will be suitable for the deposit of any grant, loan or scholarship.
most students arrive at university with little or noexperience in managing money. it is important thatyou work out a budget plan with them so that theyare aware of how much money will be available tothem from the beginning of their first semester.
tips for managing money at university
We strongly discourage the use of credit and storecards. encourage students to budget, save moneyfor later in the year and use their support income to avoid excessive term-time job hours.
Remind students that they may spend more money at certain times of the year, such asWelcome Week (new books and resources) andafter exams (celebrating), so they should factor this into their budgeting.
Working part-time
For some students, working while studying helps tosupplement their income while providing valuablework experience that could improve future careerprospects. many students now take a part-time jobduring their studies.
our careers Service advertises vacancies athundreds of organisations in the Greatermanchester area, from retail, customer service andhospitality jobs to web design and translation work.it offers students advice on writing cVs, applying forpart-time jobs and going to interviews, and alsoadvises them not to undertake too many hours, sothey can balance work with their studies.
the university itself also recruits students for someroles, including student ambassadors and hospitalitystaff in the Students’ union.
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the mancheSteR WelcomeAt manchester we want to make sure our students feel as prepared as possible to succeed at university.We want to provide students with theknowledge and information they needto make the most of their time here.
All new students will be sent a guide once they havemet the conditions of their offer giving informationabout our welcome programme. the welcomeprogramme features a range of events for every singlestudent joining us. the 10 day programme is intendedto provide a balance of need to know information about living and studying in manchester, with nice to doevents intended to support students’ transition intonew social circumstances. We provide students with aseamless programme of welcome activities, which iscomplemented by an Academic School induction.
once the student has arrived at manchester, they willreceive a welcome guide, providing a mixture ofessential and nice to know information covering thefirst few weeks of a student’s time at manchester. it isintended to support students’ transition and inductioninto academic and student life, signposting to existingresources across the university. Students will receive acopy of this guide as part of their induction by theirAcademic School.
As part of the welcome programme, we encourage allstudents to ask questions at any time. there will beseveral help desks open during the welcome period,where students can get advice and information.Helpdesks are located in some universityaccommodation, the Students union and foyers ofuniversity buildings. the desks are staffed by ourstudent ambassadors who are available to answer anyquestions students may have. university staff wear ‘Ask me badges’ so that students can easily identifystaff members who will be able to assist them.
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applyIng tomancheSteR:the applIcatIonpRoceSS
HOW TO APPLY
All applications are made online via the universitiesand colleges Admissions Service (ucAS). ucAS is a central organisation that deals with allundergraduate applications to study in highereducation in the uK. there are a number ofdeadlines that are set by ucAS. Full details on theapplication process and the deadlines are availableon the ucAS website (www.ucas.com). Applicantsshould ensure that they meet any school deadlines.
the university of manchester ucAS code is M20 Manu.
there is a section for parents on the ucAS websitewith lots of information on the application process:www.ucas.com/how-it-all-works/ parents-and-guardians
after you apply
After students apply for undergraduate study atmanchester, ucAS forwards their application formto us, and it is considered by the academic school to which they have applied. We will send the studentan acknowledgment that we have received theirapplication. Student can track and keep up to datewith the progress of their application and reply toany offers by using ucAS track -www.ucas.com/apply/undergraduate
assessing student applications
the university of manchester seeks to recruitstudents of outstanding achievement and potential from all educational backgrounds. Goodexamination results are the main factor in assessingundergraduate applications. We also use othersources of information to ensure we admit students with the most outstanding potential.these might include:
prior and predicted grades
evidence of knowledge and commitment in their personal statement
teacher references
aptitude tests
performance at interview
any exceptional circumstances or personalbarriers to learning that they have faced.
We receive many excellent applications each year.many of our courses receive numerous applicationsfor each available place, so regrettably we may notbe able to offer places to all applicants who attainthe minimum entry qualifications.
Where places are limited we offer them to thoseeligible applicants who best meet our selectioncriteria and who, in our view, are most likely tobenefit from their chosen course and to contribute both to their academic School and the wider university.
Further information on how we assess studentapplications please visitwww.manchester.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/ applications/after-you-apply/assessing-application
Receiving an offer
Any offers of a place on an undergraduate course,and any conditions of these offers, will becommunicated to the student via ucAS. Studentswill be able to view these details on ucAS track.
if the student has already satisfied the academicentry requirements of their chosen course, we maymake them an unconditional offer. if they have notyet taken some of their examinations, their offer islikely to be conditional upon achievement of aspecified level of performance in their examinations.
Replying to your offers
When a student has received a decision for all theirchoices, ucAS will contact them to ask them toreply to their offers. Please be aware that there aredeadlines for replying. Find out more about how andwhen to reply to offers via ucAS -www.ucas.com/how-it-all-works/undergraduate/tracking-your-application/replying-your-offers
feedback for applicants
manchester courses are very popular and thenumber of well-qualified applicants far exceeds the places we have available. We aim to consider all applications fairly and in line with our procedures,but, as our decisions are made on the basis of astudent’s overall application against the set entrycriteria, many academically well-qualified applicantsmay not receive an offer from us. if your son ordaughter wishes to receive feedback on anunsuccessful application they are asked to contact us. For further information on receivingfeedback please see our website -www.manchester.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/applications/after-you-apply/receiving-offer
Receiving results and requesting re-marks
After your son or daughter has applied to study atmanchester they may need to wait until they receivetheir examination results before we can confirmtheir place. For many results we will automaticallyfind out their results by the awarding body such asGce A-levels, international Baccalaureate (iB) forexample. Please see our website for a full list -www.manchester.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/applications/after-you-apply/receiving-results-remark-requests
If your son or daughter’s got the right grades
if they have met all of the conditions of their offer,they will be notified by ucAS and our academicSchool will confirm their place. they can check thestatus of their application via ucAS track.
applyIng to mancheSteR: the applIcatIon pRoceSS
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If your son or daughter’s grades are lower than expected
even if their results are slightly below our offer, it is still possible that we will award them a place ontheir original choice of course. We may alternativelyoffer them a place on a different course.
However, as many of our programmes are extremelypopular, there will usually be little flexibility inconsidering lower grades.
If your son or daughter’s is appealing against their examination results
if your son or daughter appeals against theirexamination results, please be aware that we follow ucAS guidance, which identifies 31 August as the cut-off point for meeting the conditions oftheir offer. if they are waiting for a re-mark, theyshould inform the Academic School at which they are holding an offer to let them know abouttheir circumstances.
For further information please seewww.manchester.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/applications/after-you-apply/receiving-results-remark-requests
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ACADEMICa university teacher, may be a professor, doctor,lecturer or postgraduate researcher/student.
ADMISSIONS TUTORSa member of the university staff (often anacademic member of staff) who is responsible fordeciding who is offered a place at the university.
ALUMNIPeople who have graduated (i.e. completed acourse and gained a qualification) from a universityare described as alumni. Being an alumnus can givepast students ongoing access to Careers services.Most universities have active alumni associationsthat enable past students to keep in touch witheach other and the university.
BA, BAED, BENG, BSCthese refer to Bachelor honours degrees invarious areas: Bachelor of arts (Ba), Bachelor ofeducation (Baed), Bachelor of engineering (Beng)and Bachelor of science (Bsc).
BLACKBOARDis a web based system used at Manchester. itprovides information to students regarding theirdegree programme, such as lecture notes, noticesabout exams and timetables.
BURSARYa non-repayable grant of money awarded to a student on application who fulfils specificcriteria. Bursaries are often paid directly from the university.
CLEARINGthis is the system operated by uCas to enablestudents to find places on courses that still havevacancies after the publication of exam results.although it is often for those who have not madethe grades required by their chosen universities, itcan also allow last minute applications to newinstitutions for those who obtain better resultsthan they had expected. for further informationon the process visit www.ucas.co.uk/clearing
CONDITIONAL OFFERthis is an offer made by the university which isdependent on students reaching certain grades.
CONFIRMATIONan admissions process of confirming a universityplace once all results are received by the university.
DEFERRED ENTRYa student can apply for a university place butrequest that they start it the following year, thusdeferring entry. students who wish to take a GaP year do this to ensure they have a place atuniversity for when they complete their year out.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTSGrade levels set by the university for entry onto a course.
FACULTY/ACADEMIC SCHOOL similar subjects at universities or colleges areoften grouped together under one faculty oracademic school. at Manchester we have fourfaculties; the faculty of Life sciences, faculty of engineering and Physical sciences, faculty of humanities and faculty of Medical and human sciences; within each faculty areacademic schools.
GRADUATEa graduate is a person who has been awarded adegree from a university or college. Whilststudents are studying for a degree they will beknown as an undergraduate. after the award of adegree they become a graduate. if they undertakefurther study after their degree (e.g. Master'sdegree or Phd) they will be known as apostgraduate student.
GRANTa non-repayable payment made to students when they meet certain conditions.
HALLS OF RESIDENCEstudent accommodation provided by the university.
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UnIveRSIty JaRgon BUSteR
INTEGRATED MASTERan advanced undergraduate degree that enablesstudents to gain specialised knowledge andtraining over four years of study.
MAINTENANCE LOANrepayable money intended to support living costs.
OFFERSoffers are made to students who apply for a placeat university. they are made by the admissionsteam and are often dependent on studentsachieving certain grades in their exams.
POSTGRADUATEa degree taken after an entry level, undergraduate degree.
SCHOLARSHIPscholarships are grants (non-repayable) of moneymade to a student. they are a little like a bursary,but scholarships are usually based on academicmerit and excellence as opposed to financial need.Many universities are offering scholarships as wellas bursaries.
SEMESTERsome universities divide the student year into 3 terms, some divide it into 2 semesters. a semester is half a study year.
STUDENT LOANS these are loans from the government to helpstudents pay their living and study costs whilstthey are at university.
STUDENTS UNIONeach university will have a students’ union (whichwill probably be part of the national union ofstudents). the union will represent the interestsof students and works in their interest about awhole range of issues. the union can also providethe focal point of student activities. all studentsare entitled to an nus card which provides manydiscounts for students.
TUITION FEEStuition fees cover the cost of your study and mayvary depending on what and where you study.students can apply for a “tuition fee loan” to coverthe amount they will be charged. this is then paiddirectly to the university. the “tuition fee loan” ispaid back after the student has graduated and isearning over a certain amount.
UCASPronounced yew-Cass. the universities andColleges admissions service for the uK. students apply for full-time undergraduatecourses through uCas.
UCAS EXTRAif a student uses all their five choices on theiruCas application and they don't manage to securean offer, they have a second chance to apply for aplace, using uCas extra. the service starts mid-March and runs until the end of June. uCas writesto let student know if they are eligible to use extra.
UNCONDITIONAL OFFERthis is an offer made by the university which is not dependent on students reaching certaintargets. this is often used when a student hasalready taken their exams and achieved therequired grades.
UNDERGRADUATEsomeone studying either full or part time for a first degree including Bachelor of arts (Ba),Bachelor of science (Bsc), LLB (Law).
WELCOME WEEKthe first week of the academic year and usuallyincludes an induction programme from theuniversity and social activities from the students’union (formerly known as fresher’s week).
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Royal Charter Number RC000797KD138 06.15
The University of Manchester Oxford Road Manchester M13 9PL United Kingdom tel +44 (0)161 275 2077email [email protected]
