Our Community

Coming together to form a network of support

Small in size, big on belonging

Your time at university is more than lectures and coursework. It's also about the friendships you form and the activities you get involved in. It's about feeling supported, knowing that you always have someone to speak to and help guide you during your studies.

We are a small university, with a close-knit, diverse community, and welcome new students with open arms.

£5k Cost of Living Allowance

At University College Birmingham, we believe the cost of living shouldn’t hold you back from achieving your goals. That’s why we’re providing UK full-time undergraduate students starting in February or September 2026 with £5,000 each to support expenses like food, bills, and transport - completely free, with no need to pay it back.

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Make life-long friendships

Building strong connections at university can provide a network of support and have a real positive impact on your mental health.

Here are just some of the ways you can meet people when you arrive at university:

Get involved in Freshers' Week. There'll be lots of exciting events happening, from nights out in the city to pub quizzes
WelcomeFest is held every year for new students and is a great opportunity to meet people. Previous years have seen street food festivals and action-packed sports days
Why not join a society and meet with like-minded individuals who share your interests?

Student Madalena shares her experience of making new friendships

Our supportive environment

University student support

Whatever help you need, our support teams are committed to giving you the advice, skills and practical tools to discover your full potential.

Financial support

While studying, it is important to manage your finances and access any help to which you are entitled. Our staff are here to give you the support and advice you need.

Mental Health and Wellbeing Service

Our mental health and wellbeing service is committed to helping you access the most appropriate support and information, including mental health advice and…

Students of University College Birmingham

Disability and neurodiversity support

We arrange tailored support for our university students to enable you to achieve your full potential. Support is flexible, student-centred and personalis…

Supporting who you are

At University College Birmingham, we’re proud to celebrate and support our vibrant LGBTQ+ community. We’re committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment where every student can be themselves, feel safe, and thrive. From student groups and wellbeing services to active participation in Pride events and a dedicated Gender Expression Fund, we’re here to champion diversity and ensure LGBTQ+ students are fully supported throughout their journey at UCB.

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By the students, for the students

The Guild is your students’ union and the home of student life at University College Birmingham.

They exist to make sure all students are heard on the issues that matter to them, giving you the opportunity to shape your course and your experience at University College Birmingham.

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"What societies can I join?"

Clubs and societies

We care about the things that matter

We take sustainability very seriously and will use our position to embed sustainability across our operations and our place in the community and society at large. We welcome student and staff feedback on how to best shape our sustainable practices.

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Home away from home

Whether you are moving away for the first time, relocating to a new city, or leaving behind the familiar comforts of your friends and family, we want to make you feel at home.

You’ll be part of a friendly campus surrounded by supermarkets, banks, cafés, student budget restaurants and rail and coach stations, and living in one of Britain’s most exciting and diverse cities.

Student Rocio takes you on a tour of her room at The Maltings

"I'm planning to live at home while at uni"

Living at home while at uni

Our international community

We welcome international students from over 70 countries. The support we offer starts before you arrive in the UK and we strive to ensure that the process of joining us goes as smoothly as possible.

WelcomeFest is one event you won't want to miss. This is an opportunity to learn about the societies you can join and how support departments can help you, as well as play games, enjoy food and drink and meet new people.

International student guide

A taste of UCB

Food has the power to bring people together – and at UCB, our community spans cultures, backgrounds, and experiences. This recipe book celebrates that diversity, with favourite dishes from students and staff to help you eat well on a budget.

From quick bites between lectures to comforting classics and global flavours, you’ll find something to suit every craving – vegetarian, vegan, meat, or fish. These recipes are here to inspire you to try new flavours, share good food, and make the most of your time in the kitchen. If you recreate a dish, share it on social media and tag us — we’d love to see your creations!

Start cooking

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Chat with our students

Find out what it's like to study at University College Birmingham by chatting with our current students and staff, reading our blog and get in touch with us today.

Living in Birmingham

Vibrant nightlife, booming business, gorgeous green spaces and fantastic connections throughout the UK and the world. Discover Birmingham and all it has to offer.

Undergraduate open days

Join one of our undergraduate open days and find out all about our wide range of degrees, the exciting topics you will study and the facilities on offer to give you th…