Choosing to study at university is a big decision and we understand that you may feel both excited and nervous about it. Whether it’s your education, student experience or wellbeing, we’re committed to supporting you every step of the way.
Your campus experience
We’re lucky to have some of the most beautiful and green campuses in the UK, providing plenty of areas to socialise with friends and enjoy outdoor space.
Our campuses offer a mix of historic buildings and modern facilities, but there’s plenty more to explore – including beautiful beaches, spectacular countryside, exciting culture, food and arts.
If you study at Streatham or St Luke’s Campus, you will be a short drive, cycle, bus or train journey away from the coastline and impressive national parks. You’ll also be living about a 15-minute walk from the centre of Exeter, a safe and walkable city where you can find everything right on your doorstep (consistently rated one of the best places to live, work and study in the UK!) If you’re planning to live in university accommodation in Exeter, check out our Exeter Accommodation room finder to find out more about your options, including virtual tours and information about costs and facilities.
If you’re based at Penryn Campus, you’re in walking distance of Penryn’s independent shops, cafes and the train station. You’ll also be near to Falmouth, known for its beautiful harbour, beaches and coastal walks. The town has a wide variety of boutique shops and eateries, as well as a thriving arts and live music scene. There is plenty to explore in Falmouth itself, or head further afield to see what else Cornwall has to offer including easy access to nature, biking trails, the rugged north coast, sandy beaches, great food, arts and culture. Visit our Accommodation in Cornwall room finder to discover your university accommodation options if you’ll be studying at the Penryn Campus.
Whether you decide to stay on or off campus, we’ll make sure that you feel welcomed and looked after.
There is so much you can see and explore in the local area while you are studying with us – and it’s possible to have fun on a budget, too! Gaby from our Penryn Campus shares her tips of what activities you could do for free to make the most of your university experience with us:
‘Since we’re lucky enough to be in Cornwall, why not make the most of it by soaking up the beauty of its beaches? I’ve checked out three gorgeous ones in Falmouth: Swanpool Beach, Gyllyngvase Beach, and Castle Beach. Each offers its own picturesque views, and the best part is they’re all within walking distance of each other.'
Your future starts here
As a leading Russell Group University, we pride ourselves on an outstanding teaching and learning environment. Our inclusive approach means we support all our students, irrespective of background, helping them achieve their ambitions.
We welcome students from over 150 countries across the globe. We love to celebrate all people and cultures which is what makes our community so vibrant and fun. This is why we’re top 10 in the Russell Group for student satisfaction in six out of seven themes (National Student Survey, 2023). We are here to help you make your transition to university as easy as possible, whether you’re a train ride away or joining us from another part of the world.
We are aware that studying a university is a big financial undertaking, but we’re determined this shouldn’t stop you considering a degree. This is why we financially support around a quarter of our students; we have bursaries and scholarships available to help you succeed.
We understand that the current cost of living crisis is having a huge impact, so in partnership with our alumni, we have created the ‘Success for all’ fund. This helps students who may be experiencing financial challenges which are impacting their ability to study.
Find out Ella’s four reasons why she chose the University of Exeter.
Hear from Tim about his experience studying at our Penryn Campus.
Your community
We know that being a student at the University of Exeter is about more than your academic studies and we work closely with the Students’ Guild in Exeter and the Students' Union in Cornwall to make sure your experience is great fun, exciting and you can make new friends for life.
If you're moving across the world to study, societies can be a great way to connect with others from a similar background and can help you feel a little closer to home. With over 90 sports clubs and 450 societies you could be part of, there really is something for everyone. As well as celebrating key dates such as the Chinese New Year and Diwali, our cultural societies also organise a wide range of regular social events for their members to come together.
From volunteering societies to our academic research, we are passionate about supporting our local community and the world around us. When joining our community, you’ll be joining one that is passionate about making positive change.
International student Cat, from Indonesia, shares her typical ‘Day in the life’, including some highlights of why she loves studying here.
Hear Matty discuss the variety of societies and sports to get involved in, and the other reasons he chose Exeter.
Your wellbeing
Studying at university is a brilliant experience, but we know there might be times when you need a little extra support. We offer a 24/7 support service so there's someone to speak to around the clock for help if you need it. From calm spaces on campus to wellbeing and cost of living advice, we are here to help.
If you’re joining us from overseas, we know that can add additional worries and there might be many things you are unsure about. Our dedicated International Student Support team can give you advice before you arrive and when you get to us, helping you settle into your new life here. Visit their webpages for lots of useful information about visas, the UK’s healthcare system, bank accounts, travel, driving and more.
By joining the University of Exeter community, you can be assured you are joining somewhere that puts students’ first and your voice will be heard.
Discover the wellbeing support available to you when you join us »
From enjoying the greenery around our campuses, to getting involved with societies, along with our extensive support services, it’s important to find ways to make your wellbeing a priority. International student Gowri, from India, shares her tips on how to boost your mood and wellbeing during your studies:
‘Connecting with others is a surefire way to boost your mood and remind you that you’re part of a vibrant community. Join a society, participate in student union activities, or organise a movie night or board games night with your flat mates. Being a part of the Women in Business Society and Legion Dance Society events feels like finding my own slice of warmth in the winter chill. Amidst assignment stress, these societies are my go-to places for not just honing professional skills, but also for moments of joy while dancing. It’s more than just networking; it’s about forging connections and sharing a hearty laugh.'
Your future career
As an alumnus of Exeter, our commitment to you is lifelong. When we say Exeter Forever, we really mean it; it’s embedded in everything we do to support you and your career, both whilst you’re with us and after graduation. You will be joining a lifelong community of over 155,000 professionals from over 183 countries, who are actively shaping the world around us.
Our award-winning Career Zone is on hand to help you prepare for life and work after graduation, with advice about careers both in the UK and around the world. Whether you’re joining us with a clear career path or are still figuring things out, we’re here to support you. From internships and job placements to CV workshops and networking events with top employers, there is plenty of support on offer to help kick start your career.
Discover the Career Zone »
Hear from our alumni, Nehali who studied BA Politics and International Relations.
Discover more of our alumni stories on our dedicated YouTube playlist and see where your Exeter degree can take you.
