Student Life

Get involved...

There are many ways to spend your spare time in Durham and make the most of the 'Durham' experience.  Here are just a few suggestions.

Colleges

Whilst studying at Durham, why not embrace its unique collegiate system and make your mark on college life? Whether your interests are musical, artistic, sporting or social, there are always plenty of opportunities to get involved in your college. You could join one of its sports clubs, sing in its choir, organise its charity fund-raising events, study in its library, perform in its stage shows – the list of opportunities is endless.

Durham Students' Union (DSU)

DSU provides welfare services and runs entertainment events and a whole host of other services and activities. DSU has more student societies than any other University in England, from music to paint-balling and if you can't find a society you want - start it!

Within DSU you'll find the DSU Offices, Kingsgate Bar, the student shop, Riverside Cafe, the Accommodation Office and Advice Centre.

International Students Association (ISA)

The University's International Students Association is always around to support you through your time here in whatever way it can. Whether you are feeling homesick and would like to talk to other international students, or you would really like to find out more about Durham and the United Kingdom both through travelling and social experiences, the ISA will be there for you.

The ISA is an association run by students for students, and it caters to the diverse needs of Durham's vibrant international community.  It offers various events to encourage people with all kinds of interests to become involved. The ISA calendar begins with an International Freshers Party that is open to both International Students and Home students, followed by several smaller events and then a cultural trip to Edinburgh later in the first term.

Why not get involved?  The ISA is there for you and would love to hear some of your ideas so get in touch through by visiting them on Facebook!

Durham University Athletic Union (DUAU)

DUAU is the student body responsible for organising sport at the University. It is run by student volunteers and exists to develop and promote sport throughout the University and beyond. With 49 sports clubs to choose from, including archery to water polo, Durham has something to offer everyone.

Explore the North East of England

Studying at Durham University offers you the opportunity to explore the North-East of England. From the historic cobbled streets of Durham to the vibrant cities of Newcastle and Stockton and the beautiful countryside of Northumberland, the North East has a lot to offer.

The Visit North East England website is the official visitor guide to the region and contains information on attractions, events, eating, shopping, entertainment and travel.

HOST

HOST is a hospitality scheme which offers you the chance to visit a British home and spend time with a local family, either near where you are studying or in a part of Britain that you would like to visit. The only cost to you is the cost of your bus, train or coach fare to get there.

Visits can be arranged for weekends, Christmas, New Year and Easter and usually are for 2 or 3 nights. Day visits are also possible. Taking part in HOST is an excellent way to meet British people and to make new friends.

Students should apply online at least four weeks before your specified weekend.