How to Prepare for University Over Summer: 7 Essential Tips ☀️
Starting university this autumn? 🎓 Then your summer break is more than just a time to relax — it’s also the perfect opportunity to get ahead. Learning how to prepare for university over summer can make your transition smoother, less stressful, and way more enjoyable.
From improving time management to sorting your student finance and accommodation, here’s a smart and practical checklist to help you hit the ground running in September.
Oh, and if you’re still sorting your accommodation, check out our student rooms at Orlando Village – we’re the only university-approved halls for the University of Bolton!
1. Stay Sharp: Keep Your Brain Active This Summer 🧠📚
One of the most underrated ways on how to prepare for university over summer is keeping your brain engaged. No matter what course you’re studying, reading will be a big part of it.
Whether it’s a course reading list or your favourite novel, try to keep reading regularly. Podcasts and documentaries also count! They help you stay curious and mentally switched on – ideal for easing into academic life.
2. Sign Up for Summer Programmes or Free Online Courses 💻
University life demands independent learning. To get a head start, try out a free course on platforms like FutureLearn or OpenLearn. These short courses are a great way to pick up skills or refresh knowledge before the academic year kicks off.
This small step could be the key to feeling confident from your very first seminar.
3. Stock Up on Your Study Essentials ✏️
If you’re wondering how to prepare for university over summer in a practical way, start by building your study toolkit. Essentials include:
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A reliable laptop or tablet
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Notebooks, pens, highlighters
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A planner or digital calendar
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Headphones and a USB stick
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A good desk lamp (especially if your accommodation doesn’t get much natural light)
Before you move in, you can also read our packing list for student accommodation to make sure you’ve got everything covered.
4. Learn How to Manage Your Time Like a Pro ⏳
One of the biggest challenges at uni? Time management. Unlike school, no one’s there to chase you for deadlines. Use your summer to practise staying organised with:
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Digital calendar apps (like Google Calendar or Notion)
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Weekly planners
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Daily routines
We even share productivity tips during our weekly student events, so you’ll have plenty of support when you arrive.
5. Fix That Sleep Schedule 💤
Late nights are fun, but poor sleep = poor performance. If your summer routine has you going to bed at 2am, now’s the time to reset.
Aim for a consistent wake-up time and try to get 7–9 hours of sleep a night. A solid sleep schedule will make early lectures, gym sessions, and social events so much easier to enjoy.
6. Get Your Student Finance Sorted 💸
Another major task on your list of how to prepare for university over summer is sorting your finances.
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Apply for student finance (if you haven’t already!)
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Set up a student bank account
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Plan your monthly budget
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Research any bursaries, scholarships or discounts
Top tip: If you’re moving into student accommodation, like Orlando Village, make sure your rent and payment schedule are fully understood before you arrive.
7. Take Time to Chill – You’ve Earned It 🧘♂️🍕
Let’s not forget the most important part of summer: relaxing. You’ve smashed your exams, made your uni decision, and you’re taking the next big step in life. That deserves a break.
Whether it’s a holiday, time with family, or just binge-watching your favourite series – enjoy this time before your new adventure begins.
Bonus: Secure Your Student Accommodation Now 🏡
Still finalising where you’re going to live? If you’re heading to the University of Bolton, Orlando Village is the only recommended student accommodation by the university.
With Gold, Silver, and Bronze rooms, superfast Wi-Fi, and an on-site common room, we offer everything you need to feel right at home.
🏠 Explore rooms now
🎓 Why students love us
📍 Just minutes from campus
