General Student FAQs

How do I find out if I’m getting a bursary?

The university bursary is assessed from the information that you supply when you apply for your student loan.   Student Finance England will send this information through to us, unless you ticked the box to say that you wanted to withhold your information. 

If you want to check that you gave your consent to share information, you can call 0845 603 4016.

You should get a letter from us stating the amount of bursary that you are entitled to and the dates that it will be paid into your bank. If you have not had a letter, or want to check that the amount you have been awarded is correct, please email bursary@solent.ac.uk 

What support is available for exam stress/presentation nerves/anxiety issues?

We have a hypnotherapy service at the University which is free for all students. This form of treatment can be effective in reducing nerves and anxiety and can aid relaxation and concentration. To find out more, or book an appointment visit Students 1st. 

I’m really struggling financially, what help is available to me?

First of all, it is really important to make sure you are getting all the money that you are entitled to. Our Student Funding Advisers are happy to check through your paperwork to ensure you have been assessed in the correct way.

The Access to Learning Fund is available to any home student who is in financial difficulty, and who has taken out the maximum student loan they were offered. This is a non-repayable grant that is assessed by looking at your income and expenditure across the year. For more information about how to apply, please visit the Student Funding pages, or drop into Students 1st.

We also have a dedicated Debt Adviser, who can help you to negotiate with creditors and manage your finances more effectively. Visit Students 1st to make an appointment.

How do I register with a doctor and dentist?

St Mary’s surgery will register any student staying in Halls, and also anyone with a postcode starting with SO14, SO15 1, or SO15 2. If you live outside of this area, please visit Students 1st for a list of other doctors’ surgeries in the local area.

To register with a dentist, please call the national helpline, 0845 0508 345, provide them with your full address and they will give you details of dentists registering new patients. You MUST state that you are an NHS patient.

Can you help me find a part-time job?

You can register with Jobshop Online via the portal to find part-time vacancies, and once you’ve signed up, all new vacancies will be emailed to you.

Careers and Employability is based in the Students 1st Information Centre RM050. Advisers can talk you through jobs available, look over your CV and give you some tips on finding part-time work. You can check opening times via the Students 1st Information Centre.

We recommend that you do not work more than 15 hours a week so as not to interfere with your studies.   

Can I get some assistance with extending my visa?

We have an International Advice Team who can help you with your visa application, and go through your form and documents to ensure you have everything you need. Visit or contact Students 1st for details of when an International Adviser is available.

I’m feeling unhappy on my course, what can I do?

If you’re feeling unhappy on your course we would encourage you to speak to someone about how you feel. It may be that your concerns can be easily addressed and resolved by talking things through and getting the right help.

There’s a great deal of advice and support on offer to help you here at Solent. You can talk to your course leader or tutor about your concerns, in addition each faculty has a Student Support Network Officers who can listen to your concerns confidentially and offer advice on options and other forms of support available to you. 

I’ve got a personal problem, who can I talk to in confidence?

Visit the Students 1st Information Centre. Our team of student advisers can talk to you about any problems you may be experiencing. Anything you discuss with us is kept confidential, and you do not need an appointment, just pop in if you feel like you want to talk to someone. We’re here to offer support and help overcome any practical or personal problems you may face at university. No matter how big or small the issue we’re here to help you get the most out of your student life.

We also have a free and confidential counselling service, available to all students to help you work through any issues or problems you may be experiencing. You can make an appointment at Students 1st. 

I’m struggling with my academic work, what support is available?

Succeed@solent can provide you with online or one-to-one support with your academic work. Visit the succeed@solent pages on myCourse, or visit the library for information on drop-in and appointments times for study skills support sessions. 

I would like to improve my CV, where can I get help?

The Careers & Employability service offer advice and guidance on how to produce CV’s and covering letters for employers. They offer face to face, email and telephone appointments and operate a drop in CV checking service on Thursdays.

For more information or to book an appointment visit or contact Student 1st.