Parents and supporters of new students

This page is for parents and supporters of new students and explains the University’s approach to communication, student privacy, and how you can support conversations during the transition to university.

Student Carer / Student Parent

You may have come to this page not only as a parent or supporter of a new student, but as a student yourself who is also a parent or a carer for a parent or family member. Information about the support available to you can be found through the links below.

Student Parent

Student Carer

How you can support your new student

As a parent or supporter, the way you stay connected with your student may naturally change, whether they are moving away or studying from home. Many families find that agreeing on a regular time to check in helps maintain open, supportive communication as new routines settle in.

University is an exciting and often transformative experience, but it can also feel overwhelming at times. Creating space for your student to talk, listening without feeling the need to solve problems, and offering reassurance can help build their confidence and independence as they navigate this transition.

Every student adjusts at their own pace, and a positive, understanding approach can make a real difference—particularly if things don’t go as planned, such as academic results or making friends in the early weeks.

The University provides a wide range of support services to help students through this transition. Familiarity with these resources can help you encourage your student to access support when they feel it would be helpful.

Services and support

How the University communicates with parents and supporters

The University of Edinburgh recognises all students as independent adults, including those under 18. As a result, parents, relatives, and supporters do not have a general legal right to receive information about a student, and the University can only share details with the students consent. In exceptional circumstances, the University may contact you if it is considered to be in the student’s best interests.

Students are trusted to manage their own academic, personal, and financial affairs and are expected to act responsibly in line with the Code of Student Conduct. When mistakes happen, the University is committed to supporting students to learn and develop, and in some cases may take a supportive approach rather than disciplinary action, particularly where health or disability is a factor.

University of Edinburgh data protection policy

Code of Student Conduct

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