Isabel, BA English Literature and Japanese

"The University is brilliant in supporting students, and you shouldn’t feel ashamed or embarrassed to ask for this support. There are many scholarships available, for instance: international scholarships, sports scholarships, sanctuary scholarships, and many more. I would encourage you to look on the University’s funding webpage to research the many financial aids available, and check out the eligibility criteria.   

I would massively recommend the Disabled Students’ Allowance to any prospective students who perhaps struggle with funding their disabilities. It is an essential support system, especially during the current cost of living crisis, when other expenses pile up so easily. It is so relieving to not have to worry about the extra costs of a disability and the equipment I need, and I’ve been able to catch up on my studies, with help from assistive technologies that previously, I couldn’t afford. I’ve massively flourished since receiving this support, and it is thanks to guidance of the University of Exeter that I have been able to do so."

Read more from Isabel »

Albina, LLB Law

"I’m so grateful for the support I’ve received from the University of Exeter, the Students’ Guild, and my peers. There are loads of wellbeing services available at the University of Exeter, which include 24/7 support like the NHS Urgent Mental Health Line or Estate Patrol, who can help with any security, safety or welfare concerns. 

If you’re living in student accommodation, you’ll have access to support from the Residence Life Team. They’re super easy to talk to, and they regularly check in with students to make sure everyone’s doing okay.  

Most societies at Exeter have a wellbeing officer, and many organise events aimed at improving students’ mental health. For example, some offer art therapy sessions, where you can sit with like-minded people and paint – it’s a great way to unwind.   

The Guild is the student union at the University of Exeter, and they also provide loads of mental health and wellbeing support – from wellbeing workshops to helpful articles on different topics related to mental health. They also run peer support groups for different kinds of struggles students face."

Read more from Albina »

Ha Giang, MSc Sustainable Business Management

"University life can be incredibly rewarding - but it’s also intense. When I first arrived in the UK, adjusting to a new academic culture was both exciting and a bit overwhelming.  I decided to reach out to the Wellbeing Team. I booked a one-to-one session with a practitioner, and it honestly made such a difference. The practitioner listened with such empathy - no pressure, no judgment - just space to breathe, reflect, and feel understood. After that session, I also started joining some of the Wellbeing workshops - on topics like managing anxiety, time pressure, and even mindfulness techniques.  

Another game-changer for me has been the academic and pastoral support available at Penryn Campus. Every student at Exeter is assigned a personal academic tutor, and I feel really lucky to have someone who’s not only supportive, but genuinely invested in my journey. My tutor has given me incredibly helpful advice - whether I was trying to choose a dissertation topic, navigate academic expectations, or even think ahead about my career path."

Read more from Ha Giang »

Lucy, BA English

"University is an exciting time of independence, but for many this comes the challenge of budgeting and learning how to manage living costs, such as rent, for the first time. However, the range of schemes and resources for financial support that the University of Exeter offers reassured me that money did not need to be a barrier to higher education.  I personally benefit from the Access To Exeter (ATE) Bursary; which is crucial as it supplements my everyday expenses such as my weekly food shop and goes towards all the books I need for my English course.   

There’s a variety of financial support based on different criteria, for both undergraduate and postgraduate students. You can also access extra support during your studies here. The Success For All Fund is a resource for students who encounter unexpected financial hardship that affects their ability to study.    

Money worries can be stressful and isolating - the University’s Wellbeing Services are there to help if you feel that finances are negatively affecting your mental health. Exeter was definitely the right choice for me, and I have not felt that my student experience has been limited because of my background."

Read more from Lucy »