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Step Ahead
Our Step Ahead events are here to help you hit the ground running. Think of it as your head start to settling in, making connections, and kicking off your university journey with confidence and excitement.
By coming along to Step Ahead you will:
- feel more confident, prepared and ready to start university
- meet other new students and start building your social circle
- get to know the university campus
- pick up insider tips from current students
- get a taste of what studying at university is life
- discover all the support available to help you thrive at York
- get answers to any questions you have about university life
Register for Step Ahead
Registration for Step Ahead will open on Monday 3rd August. If you would like to register your interest in attending Step Ahead in September 2026 and receive futher information in the summer, please complete this short Expression of Interest form.
Frequently Asked Questions
Got questions about Step Ahead? You’re not alone—we’ve put together a handy list of FAQs to help you find all the answers you need, quickly and easily.
Do I have to attend Step Ahead?
No, it is completely optional.
That said, students who attended Step Ahead tell us how much they benefited from it. Many say they made great new friends, gained confidence, and felt much more ready for university life afterwards. Have a read of the information about Step Ahead on these pages to see if you think it will benefit you too.
How do I register for Step Ahead?
Registration for Step Ahead will open on Monday 3rd August 2026. You can only register for Step Ahead when you have a confirmed place at York and so know you will definitely be studying here.
If you would like to register your interest in attending Step Ahead in September 2026 please complete this short Expression of Interest form. We will then send you further information about Step Ahead over the summer.
I’m nervous about attending Step Ahead as I won’t know anyone, should I still come?
Definitely! It’s unlikely anyone attending Step Ahead will know anyone else so everyone is in the same position. Our friendly Student Helpers, who have all attended Step Ahead as new students themselves, will know just how you are feeling and be on hand to put you at ease and help you get chatting to other new students. Over 75% of students who attended Step Ahead in 2025 told us that they made new friends at the event.
Is there somewhere to go if I feel overwhelmed while I’m at Step Ahead?
Yes there are lots of spaces you can make use of, including some quiet spaces close to the lecture theatre and a craft area. You are welcome to use these areas at any time. There is also easy access to the outside. If you think you might find Step Ahead overwhelming, you may prefer to attend one of our shorter 1-day events.
Step Ahead is too far away for me to travel, is it possible to attend virtually?
Unfortunately, Step Ahead is only offered in person as we feel the opportunity to meet other students is one of the key benefits. We do, however, 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 Step Ahead has taken place. If you would like us to do this please just send us an email at stepahead@york.ac.uk.
For any questions about Step Ahead please email us at stepahead@york.ac.uk