College life
York is one of a handful of universities with a college system. Much more than a place to live, colleges are the heart of student life.
Each of our colleges has its own history and character, but they’ll all provide you with the same sense of community. We have eleven colleges, including our dedicated postgraduate college Wentworth.
What is a college?
Whether you live on or off campus, your college will be your home away from home. Each has a dedicated network of support and a calendar of events, making the transition to university much easier.
Your college is your foundation for getting involved in campus life and a gateway to exploring the wider university community.
The story of the colleges
Community spirit
You'll become a part of a smaller community to help you meet new people and embrace student life.
Personal growth
There are plenty of opportunities to develop and get involved with your college committee.
Here for you
Your college team is here to help you with dedicated support services and wellbeing sessions.
Settling in at York
Your first few weeks at university are far less daunting with the help of our current students and your college community. They’ll welcome you on arrival day and lead a host of freshers’ events to help you get your bearings.
Second and Third Year Contacts (STYCs) are current students who will help you during move in and Freshers' week. Our Student mentors (STYMs) also offer support and guidance throughout your first year at university.
College events
Colleges bridge the gap between living and learning, giving you the chance to find new passions and make friends outside the lecture theatre.
Each college is a bustling hub for student-led events and activities, including big summer parties, live music, pub quizzes, arts and music programmes, bake-off competitions, day trips and more.
You’ll be a valued college member and able to attend events whether you live on campus or not.
College sports
Every week, colleges compete in over 20 college sporting leagues. There is regular training and coaching for all team members, who range from beginners to seasoned pros.
College music
Our College Music Scheme gives you access to our music facilities, instrument lending library and equipment hire. By signing up, you’ll also receive invitations to events and activities, such as choirs and music workshops.
Leadership and volunteering
Each college has an elected student committee. Your committee foster a sense of community by representing student voices, organising events and promoting wellbeing.
All colleges get involved in fundraising for various charities. You could volunteer in roles related to social justice, sustainability, community projects and more. You could also help to raise money for charity with our annual RAG (Raising and Giving) week and in running other fundraising campaigns.
One of the best ways to get involved in your college is to run for a position on the college committee. You could deliver campaigns, design and sell college clothing, or coordinate sports teams and arrange socials.
Support and guidance
Our colleges are a safe space to try new things, to challenge yourself and to flourish. They have a dedicated team of staff and students who are always happy to chat and help you make the most of college and university life. Our college team help to provide:
- Information and contact before you arrive
- Orientation sessions to welcome you into student life
- 1:1 support, mentoring and wellbeing sessions
- Places and activities to help you to de-stress.
Your college and your academic supervisor are at the heart of your support network, alongside Student Support and your Students’ Union. They’ll help and advise you, or refer you to other appropriate support.
Find out more about our support services
Catering and social facilities
Your college provides you with much more than a room. You'll have access to a range of social spaces, music space facilities, study areas, bars and cafes. These spaces are perfect for relaxing and catching up with friends, or for refuelling between lectures.
Which college?
Each college is different, with its own personality depending on its history, accommodation, layout, location, facilities and the people who live there. But every college has the same aims to: cultivate your academic curiosity, develop your skills and employability, and support your health and wellbeing.
Although some departments are located within college buildings, you don't need to apply for a particular college based on your course. Our campus setting means that all our colleges are close to our departments and teaching buildings.
You’ll grow to love your college, whichever it is.
