Most student safety comes down to a few habits: know where campus security is, lock your room, travel with other people at night, and keep your phone charged. Register with the university's own security service and save its number before you need it. Tell someone where you are going on a night out, and agree how you are getting home before you leave rather than at 2am.

For context: the graduate employment rate in England was 87.6% in 2024, against 68.0% for non-graduates. — DfE, Graduate labour market statistics, 2024

University is an exciting time, but safety should always be a top priority for students. With this in mind, we've compiled a list of tips to help UK university students stay safe while on campus.

What is awareness and prevention?

How can you be aware of your surroundings?

- Stay Alert: Always be conscious of your environment.

- Choose Well-Lit Paths: Avoid walking in dark or isolated areas.

- Avoid Unsafe Areas: Steer clear of places that feel or look dangerous.

What does Use University Security Services offer?

- Campus Police: Do not hesitate to contact them during emergencies.

- Security Guards: They are there to ensure your safety, use their help when needed.

What are personal security measures?

What are lock your doors and windows?

- Deter Intruders: Keeping doors and windows locked is a simple yet effective security measure.

- Secure Both On and Off-Campus Housing: This rule applies no matter where you are residing.

What is travel in groups?

- Safety in Numbers: There is always strength and safety in numbers.

- Especially at Night: Nighttime is particularly risky when alone.

What is emergency preparedness?

How do you keep emergency contact information handy?

- Immediate Access: Ensure you can quickly access the contact details of campus police or local emergency services.

- Pre-program Your Phone: Save these numbers in your phone for quicker access.

How do you report suspicious behavior?

- Speak Up: Your voice can prevent potential crimes.

- Contact Authorities: Notify campus security or local police about any unusual activities.

What are proactive safety strategies?

How do you take self-defense classes?

- Build Confidence and Skills: These classes empower you to defend yourself.

- Learn Practical Defense Techniques: Gain knowledge that could be vital in a dangerous situation.

What should you do next?

Staying safe on campus is crucial for UK university students. By implementing these safety tips—ranging from being vigilant about your surroundings to taking self-defense classes—you can significantly enhance your security. Remember, your safety is paramount, and proactive measures can greatly contribute to a secure and enjoyable university experience.

What is worth remembering?

"Safety and security don't just happen, they are the result of collective consensus and public investment. We owe our children, the most vulnerable citizens in our society, a life free of violence and fear." - Nelson Mandela

What else is worth reading?

What can this guide not tell you about your own application?

Entry requirements, deadlines and how offers are made change every admissions cycle, and vary between courses at the same university. A published requirement is where the conversation starts, not a guarantee of a place. Always confirm against UCAS and the course page itself.

Course claims are checkable, and this is where the numbers come from:

“The data on Discover Uni includes official statistics from national surveys and data collected from universities and colleges.” — Discover Uni, About our data

Where can you check this at source?

University entry requirements, deadlines and course outcomes are set by UCAS and the institutions, and change every cycle. Confirm against the source: