It's natural for some students to require more support than others during their transition to university.

As a parent or guardian, recognising and adapting to these differences is essential. While some young people may effortlessly handle tasks such as registering with a local GP or setting up a bank account, others may feel overwhelmed.

Encourage open communication, provide helpful resources, assist with practical tasks, offer emotional support, and promote their independence. By customising your support to their specific needs, you can help ensure a smoother and more positive transition to university.

If possible, visiting the university before the big move is a great way to help your young person become familiar with their new surroundings.

Whether that's attending an open day or taking advantage of an open campus policy, like that of Queen's University, exploring the campus and nearby town can give them a valuable glimpse into their future environment.

Universities have worked hard to put measures in place to keep both staff and students safe on campus. But safety also needs to extend beyond the campus grounds, it's important to remind students of how to keep safe on nights out, when drinking, relationships and also how to look after their mental health.

More information on student safety.

If your young person has applied for Student Finance, they should receive confirmation before September regarding their tuition fee payment and details of their maintenance support for the first academic year.

Students are notorious for poor budgeting, but this doesn't need to be the case. As this is likely the first time they're going to be looking after their own finances, it will be beneficial to run them through the basics for budgeting living expenses.

It's also a good time to check if they are eligible for any bursaries or scholarships, which do not need to be repaid.

Additionally, consider whether they might want to find part-time work to supplement their income while studying.

Before heading off to university, young people need to decide where they want to live.

Many students opt for student accommodation or private housing near the university, while local students may choose to live at home.

University halls of residence typically offer single rooms with shared kitchens and living areas, and many also include private bathrooms. Parents, guardians and carers often prefer this option for the first year, as halls provide a secure and comfortable environment with numerous facilities, making it easier for students to make friends.

Private housing, especially when shared with other students, is often a more affordable alternative than university accommodation.

Living on ready meals and takeaways might sound great in the first few weeks, but learning how cook is a healthier and cheaper option for a young person.

If they don't do much cooking at home, it could be worth while teaching them a few different staple meals which they can practice before they head off to university.

Even if your young person is staying at home while studying, learning how to cook is a great way to help them become more independent.

VIDEO: What I Eat in a Week as a Student

Packing for university can be stressful for some students. However, it's important to remind your young person that if they forget something they can always just pick it up in Belfast or have it shipped out.

The university works with UniKitOut, a website that offers the essentials for university but at a lower cost. Students have the option to purchase complete kits or bathroom, kitchen or bedroom kits.

If your young person is staying in a private rental, it's important to check with the landlord what's included and encourage them to have a discussion with their house mates on splitting costs on necessary items such as WiFi, heating, and electricity.

Students may also want to take some home comforts with them to brighten up their space in accommodation such as plants, fairy lights or photos.

What to Pack for University

Northern Ireland is known for its rainy weather, check out Ghada's guide on how to navigate Belfast's climate while studying at Queen's.