Whether you want to save before you start university, take a mini gap year, or fit study around other commitments, there are lots of reasons why starting a degree in January makes sense. Here are ten of them.
Perhaps you've already started university but things aren’t quite working out as planned. Time to look at a different uni or a change of course? January could be the perfect time to transfer.
Browse courses and apply
Gap years are great but 12 months can seem like a long time. Maybe a mini gap year suits you best: take time out, volunteer or travel for a few months – then start your course in January. Voila! No need to wait until the following September.
Browse courses and apply
Start in January and what do you know? You’ll be graduating and entering the job market at a different time to those who started in September. Less competition, more chance to shine.
Career and employability support at ARU
As a January starter, you’ll meet students who started in September and those joining at the same time as you – making you better connected. You can also get to know people through our Facebook group for applicants. Is there a collective noun for groups of friends? You’re going to need it.
Get involved in student life
If you simply need a bit more time to get organised, save money, arrange a visa, take an English language course or prepare for uni, a January start could work perfectly for you.
Handy tips on preparing for uni
Life gets busy sometimes – especially if you have work or family commitments (or both). Starting a course at the beginning of the year, when everyone’s hibernating after Christmas and things are relatively quiet, could be just the ticket.
Family and study: an average day
The beginning of a new year makes us reflect on all sorts of things. Exercise (or lack thereof). Healthy eating (or, ahem, lack thereof). Career choices... If it’s time to make a change in your working life, join us in January and get started in your dream vocation.
Find your perfect course
You love your career, but perhaps you need an additional qualification or want to build your skills. Take a look at our part-time courses starting in January. Many are professionally accredited, and they can help you take the next step.
Explore part-time courses
Many of our January courses run part-time, so you can continue to work, as well as study. And if you’re looking for a job, ARU Temps can help. Start polishing that CV now…
Explore part-time courses
Start a course in January and you'll enjoy all the benefits that other ARU students do.
You're eligible for the same financial support. Check out our finance pages for details of student loans and grants, or speak to our Money Advice Service for impartial, confidential advice.
You'll automatically become a member of Anglia Ruskin Students' Union when you start your course, too. Your NUS card entitles you to a range of brilliant deals and discounts.
We have social events happening all year round, and you can also join a society or sports club, become a volunteer, sign-up for discounted gym memberships, and enjoy a range of arts events. In other words, you'll never be bored.
See you in January!