New students and arrivals
Keeping up to date
As we get closer to the start of the semester, we'll email your University of York email account with information and advice on how to prepare. Catch up on any messages you've missed below:
Arrivals day
1. Getting here
You can find travel information on the maps, directions and parking web pages.
As we have limited car parking spaces, we ask that you follow this process to help minimise congestion.
2. Meet STYCs and collect keys
On arrival, you’ll be greeted by our Second and Third Year Contacts (STYCs), recognisable by their James t-shirts. They’ll show you where to go and can answer any questions.
Your STYC will direct you to pick up your key card and student ID, and be greeted by our college staff. Don’t forget to bring a photo ID with you.
If you’ve booked an arrival time after 5pm, you should collect your keycard from the reception in the Roger Kirk Centre.
3. Move into your room
Once you have your key card, a STYC or STYM (student mentor) will take you to your accommodation.
If you arrive by car, now’s the time to unload your belongings.
4. Say hi to your flatmates
Once you’ve sorted out your things and are starting to feel a little more at home, why not say hi to your flatmates once they’re done too? Your kitchen is the place to do so.
Your flat’s STYMs will also be in touch to keep you updated on what will happen in the weeks ahead.
5. Think about dinner
Whether you are moving into catered or self-catered accommodation, you'll need to think about food for your first evening.
Depending on when you arrive, our on-campus outlets may be closed, and if you are moving into catered accommodation, please be aware your meals will only be available on weekdays during the semester.
Your room number
Accommodation services will email you your room code in September, which includes your room number and block. If you have any queries, get in touch with the Accommodation team.
- The letters at the start tell you which building the room is in
- The next letter is your block/court
- The number is your room number
- The first digit of your room number is your floor: (0 is Ground Floor, 1 is First Floor etc.)
- If you're in house style blocks (A-F), the second digit is your house number (0 = House 1, 1 = House 2 etc)
For example: J/B/104 is B Block, House 1, First Floor, Room number 104. J/F/114 is F Block, House 2, First Floor, Room number 114.
Your first week
During the first week, James College and our Students’ Union will put on a programme of welcome activities, led by the student committees, to introduce you to the college, get to know your housemates and begin your new university adventure.