Guidance for parents, carers and guardians

Starting university is a big step both for you and your child. We’re here to support parents, carers and guardians every step of the way, from the application process through to preparing a student for studying at Sheffield Hallam.

Explore our guidance and resources to help you support someone with confidence throughout their university journey. On this page, you’ll find:

advice on supporting someone through the application process,
guidance on applying via UCAS, from personal statements to key dates,
tips on preparing for university, including cost of living and travelling to campus, plus
opportunities to visit us on campus and ask us any questions.

First steps to university

A father and daughter sat at a table in a campus dining area, with the girl holding open a booklet they are reading through together.

Help someone apply

There are many ways to support someone applying to university, from helping pick the right course to attending an open day.

A person typing on a laptop, a ring and bracelets on their hands and wrist; another person stands in the background.

UCAS advice for parents and guardians

Find helpful guides on applying through UCAS, including how to help your child write a personal statement, key dates and deadlines, and application terms explained.

Emma, a Sheffield Hallam ambassador stood for a portrait photo

Helping your child apply

Emma, a Sheffield Hallam University parent ambassador, shares her advice on how parents and carers can support a child with the application process.

Watch Emma's guide

Preparing for university

A student reaching into a refrigerated drink display store at The Granary café.

Cost of living

Financial support and tips on budgeting and saving in one of the UK's most affordable student cities, from student discounts to handy budget calculators.

Three students sitting in a halls bedroom, talking and laughing while using a laptop and notebook.

Living away from home

If your child is moving away for the first time, it’s natural for it to feel like a big change. Our renting guidance explains deposits, payments and being a guarantor, so you can feel more confident supporting them.

Two people stood looking at a large streetside map of Sheffield city centre. In the background are trees and modern office buildings.

Getting around Sheffield

Sheffield is well connected with good transport links, as well as being within walkable distance to campus locations and places to socialise. Here are the best ways to get around when visiting the city.

How we support our students

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Support and guidance

From career and financial support, to feeling part of the student community, your child will have access to resources that will help them feel at home from day one.

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Wellbeing resources

Our specialist wellbeing team is here to help students take care of their mental health. They can access tools, events, and workshops, or speak to a wellbeing practitioner.

Book an open day

Stay connected

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Chat to a parent ambassador

You can speak to other parents and carers about supporting a child at university through our Ambassador Platform. Just send a message on the online chat to start a conversation.

A group of people standing outside the Redmires campus building, talking with two student open day ambassadors holding signs.

Webinars and events

We run regular webinars and events that give helpful guidance on how to support your child at university. Browse our upcoming sessions and register your interest.