What's on during Welcome

Welcome is such a busy and exciting time! There's a lot going on, but we're here to help you decide where to go and what to do as you start your student life at Birmingham.

Students starting in January 2026

This January, our dedicated Welcome events will help you get essential information and settle in as a new student. These events are particularly aimed at:

  • Study Abroad & Exchanges semester abroad students
  • Presessional and Foundation students at the Birmingham International Academy
  • Students joining the January cohorts of MSc Computer Science, MA Digital Media and Communications, MSc International Business, and MSc Public Management
  • Students joining professional programmes in Medicine, Education, and Social Work
  • Postgraduate Research students

Remember to book a Right to Study check, if you need one.

  • Your January Welcome events

    Discover your dedicated January Welcome events, as well as the full range of events and activities for students on our What's On page.

    Discover what's on

Students starting in September 2026

In September, everything begins with Arrivals Weekend (Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 September), the key time for students moving into University and partner accommodation. Arrivals Weekend is open to everyone, whether you'll be living with us or not, and your friends and family are invited too. 

Welcome Week begins on Monday 21 September. The fun continues with lots of extra activities across campus, to help you discover everything your new student life at Birmingham has to offer!

Explore campus on Arrivals Weekend

Kick start your University experience on Arrivals Weekend! Our key events and venues will start over the weekend, so whether you're moving in or commuting to University, you can head onto campus to explore and start settling in ahead on Welcome Week getting underway.

Parents and carers of new students, you're welcome too! Whether you're tagging along with your new student, or leaving them to get to know their flatmates, you're invited to campus to explore and find out all the useful information to help you support your student.

Your Welcome Week experience

Your programme induction sessions form the core of your Welcome experience - you can meet staff, get to know your coursemates, and find out what to expect as you begin your studies with us. Check your timetable in the MyUoB app from September.

There is also a huge range of additional, optional events and activities taking place. You won't be able to attend everything, so we recommend taking some time to think about what's most important to you and planning your time so you don't miss the things that matter to you.

Our student events page helps you explore what's on during Welcome and throughout the year. You can browse what's happening, add events to your calendar, and sign up to take part.

Guild of Students events

The Guild of Students is your students' union, and is there to ensure you get the most out of University life. Explore events from the Guild of Students and groups and societies on their website.

The Guild of Students also offer the Welcome Pass, the only official 'freshers' package for University of Birmingham students.