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Sussex Researcher School

Getting started on your research degree

On this page you will find information about things you need to be aware of and do in the lead up to commencing your research degree, and during your first few weeks and months of your registration.

Registration

Registration is the formal process of recording that you have become a member of the University. Once you have registered you will be able to engage in supervision, attend researcher development workshops, use labs, and use the Library, Computing and other University facilities. Once registered for the first time you will receive a University registration card which includes membership of the Students’ Union.

In order to remain a candidate for the degree you are required to renew your registration each academic year. Information regarding online registration will be sent to you by email in August/September each year

Student Loans

If you are in receipt of a postgraduate student loan, Student Data and Records will notify the Student Loan Company when you have completed registration. The Student Loan Company will then release your first loan installment. If you have queries regarding registration, please contact researchstudentprogress@sussex.ac.uk. If you have queries regarding your student loan, please contact the Student Finance England Postgraduate Loan Team.

Contact details and communication

You are responsible for keeping your contact details up to date via Sussex Direct throughout your registration. When you register you should confirm your term-time address. 

The University will contact you by email in the first instance, using your ¿ìèÊÓƵ email address. You should check your account regularly so you don't miss important communications. 

Should the University need to contact you by letter, the following addresses will be used:

  • Correspondence for full-time, part-time or pre-submission postgraduate researchers (PGRs) will be sent to term-time addresses;
  • Correspondence for fieldwork/distant learning PGRs will be sent to fieldwork/distant learning addresses.

Health Service

You and your dependents may register with the .

Council Tax

Eligibility for Council Tax exemption and discounts varies depending on your circumstances:

  • Full-time registered PGRs living in University-managed accommodation are generally exempt from paying Council Tax and the University supplies details of tenants to the local authority.
  • If you are a full-time PGR not living in University accommodation, please refer to information on letter and document requests.
  • If you are a part-time or pre-submission PGR you should contact your local Council Tax Office for further information on any discounts you may be eligible for.

Electoral registration

Arrangements to register you to vote whilst a PGR at the University are managed through annual registration. Please note that in order to vote you must be registered.

Induction

The Sussex Researcher School (SRS) provides centralised induction events for PGRs, typically in October and February. You are expected to attend the University induction relevant to your start date. See our Welcome pages for more information.&nbs