No, it is entirely optional. Students who have attended Step Ahead tell us how much they benefited from it. In particular they tell us about the friends they made at Step Ahead and the confidence it gave them. There is lots of information about Step Ahead on these web pages so find out as much as you can about the events offered and, if you think you will benefit from attending, register as soon as you are able to.

Registration for Step Ahead will open in Summer 2026! Please note that you can only register for Step Ahead when you have a confirmed place at the University of York.

If you would like to register your interest in attending Step Ahead in September 2026, please complete this short Expression of Interest form

Definitely! It’s unlikely any of our Step Ahead students will know anyone when they first arrive at Step Ahead so everyone is in the same position. Our friendly Step Ahead Student Helpers will be on hand to give you a friendly welcome and put you at ease. They will also help you get chatting to other new students. Over 75% of students who attended Step Ahead in 2025 told us that they made friends at these events.

Yes there are lots of spaces you can make use of. There are some quiet spaces close to the lecture theatre as well as a craft area. You are welcome to use these areas at any time. There is also easy access to the outside.

Unfortunately, Step Ahead is only offered in person as the social aspect of the event and the opportunity to meet other students is one of the key benefits. We understand not everyone is able to travel to York for Step Ahead and if this is the case we are happy to send you the slides after the events have taken place.