FAQs

Please look below at our Frequently Asked Questions.

If you still have a question, please reach out to use using the chat function, contact form or by messaging a committee member directly from the 'Meet the Committee' page

What do I need to do before I arrive?

There is lots of preparation to do before you arrive. Not to worry though, have a look at the undergraduate checklist that details exactly what you need to do, apps you need to download and things to check out. You can find it here: https://www.lboro.ac.uk/students/welcome/undergraduate/checklist/ Also check out the 'Before you arrive' page to find out how to set up your IT Credentials and Multi-Factor Authentication at https://www.lboro.ac.uk/students/welcome/before-you-arrive/ Check out how you can prepare for your studies at Loughborough by visiting https://www.lboro.ac.uk/students/welcome/preparing-for-study/ Finally, check out the key info for when you finally arrive, including term dates, key contacts and collecting your ID card at https://www.lboro.ac.uk/students/welcome/preparing-for-study/
What is the student handbook?

The student handbook is the authoritative source of detailed ‘how-to’ information during your time as a student, from registration to graduation. It has all the important information you need to know about being a student at Loughborough University. You can access the handbook at https://www.lboro.ac.uk/students/handbook/
On move-in day, how does unpacking work?

We'll provide a video outlining the process. You'll pull up by the dining hall, where committee members and fresher helpers will assist with unloading your car and transporting your belongings to your block. Meanwhile, your parents’ car will be directed to the multi-story car park. After parking, they can return to help you unpack your room.
How do we get our keys and IDs?

On move-in day, we have a conveyor belt system in place. At the first station, you'll receive your ID card and room keys.
Which university entrance do we use?

When you arrive on campus, it is important that you arrive through the East Entrance of campus. From the East Entrance, follow the signposts directing you to Royce. The road leading to Royce is one-way, so it's straightforward and hard to miss. We will also post a video showing the route prior to move-in day.
If we’re not coming in on move-in day, will we still get the freshers merchandise?

Yes, you'll still receive the freshers merchandise. Once you're in your block chat, just reach out to your block rep, and they'll arrange it for you.
If your student ID isn't out yet, does that mean you can't eat or access your accommodation?

If you don't have your ID card, they can look up your name at the till so you can still get food. However, you'll need your ID card to access your block. If you've lost your ID, for example on a night out, or accidentally left it in your room, you can ask a block mate to let you in or contact the sub wardens for assistance.
Should I collect my student ID before moving to Royce? (for international students)

It's up to you when you pick up your student ID from the tennis centre, but it's a good idea to do it on the first day. Having your ID will give you easier access to your block. Just make sure to bring the necessary documents proving your eligibility to study here when you go to collect your ID.
Who are the block reps?

The block reps are members of the committee who will look after you. Each committee member who lives in Royce represent a different block, meaning there is always a committee member on hand to support you with anything you need regarding your block and/or room.
Which events are under 18s not allowed to attend?

Under 18s won't be able to attend any club nights or events involving alcohol. However, there will be alternative alcohol-free events throughout the week, and we recommend attending those instead.
What kind of tickets should we get?

To join in with the hall, check the Royce Instagram for the events Royce is attending and buy those tickets so you can go with your flatmates. You're welcome to buy other tickets for the nights, but keep in mind that this might mean you won't have anyone you know joining you.
Are we going collectively as a hall to the clubs each night?

Yes, everyone in Royce Hall will participate in the themed events, and then we will all head to the club together. Of course, you're free to skip the nights out if you'd prefer—that's entirely up to you.
What mobile apps do I need to download?

For staying in Royce, the most important app is the brand new Royce Hall App! You can find out how to download this at https://www.roycehall.co.uk/mobile-app You will also need the 'Washnet' app for your laundry, the Loughborough 'myLboro' app for your timetable and all things uni-related too. We also recommend getting the 'LboroSport' app for all your sports bookings like pitches and the gym, as well as the 'Student's Union' app for all your nights out at the LSU. Finally, ensure you download the 'Outlook' app so you can stay up to date with your student emails.
What tickets should be get for Welcome Week?

Wait until we have released our official timetable. Once we get the timetables posted for welcome week we advise you get the events listed there, as Royce as a group will be going and it would be good to get to know other ppl living in Royce! We will post the ticket links for all nights out on the Royce App and in the WhatsApp group chats.
Do we need to buy tickets to do most activities during welcome week or is there a lot we can just turn up to on the day?

Most activities you can turn up on the day apart from nights out, we will let you know the tickets you’ll need to buy for all the events closer to the time. The vast majority of the fun-filled day events will be free!
What comes with the room and what do I need to bring when I move in?

Your room comes with a desk, chair, mattress and two pillows, but you will need to bring pillowcases, a duvet, duvet cover and sheets. A full list of our recommendations of what to pack can be found at https://www.roycehall.co.uk/what-to-pack
Do I need to bring extra storage / cupboard / drawers?

No, you should be fine with the storage provided in the rooms. Have a look at the tours of rooms in Royce on the Loughborough University accommodation website for a view of the typical rooms and storage in a Royce room. You can also view our recommendations of what to pack at https://www.roycehall.co.uk/what-to-pack
How often is there cleaning?

Rooms are cleaned every two weeks, and the kitchen is cleaned weekly. Shared Bathrooms are cleaned every couple of days on a regular basis.
How do we access the laundry services?

Its all done through the WashNet app, there are twelve dryers and eight washers and the whole process is very simple and the app will take your through it. It's not bad price-wise either! We recommend bringing a laundry bag/basket to take your washing from the Laundry Room back to your block.
Can your ID card access all Royce blocks or only the one you're in?

During the day, your ID card can access any Royce block. However, between 10 PM and 8 AM, it will only allow access to your own block.
How many charging outlets are there in a standard room?

There are typically 3 or 4 pairs of charging outlets in a standard room. You can also use extension leads, but be sure not to plug one extension lead into another.
Is there enough space for a clothes rail in a standard ensuite room? And does each bedroom have a lock?

Yes, every bedroom has a lock, and there is enough space in a standard ensuite room for a clothes rail.
How many toilets and showers are there per normal block (shared bathrooms)?

Typically, there are 2 toilets and 2 showers per block.
Are there fire drills?

Yes, there are two fire drills throughout the year. You must evacuate your block within a few minutes; otherwise, you'll have to repeat the drill until you get it right. The fire alarms are tested weekly, but you don't need to evacuate during those tests.
Are we allowed to buy a mini fridge for our room?

No, mini fridges aren't generally allowed unless you need one for medical reasons. The accommodation staff is usually very understanding if it's necessary for medication storage. Make sure you have approval from the Hall Manager beforehand if for medical reasons. You can email them at villagecentral@mailbox.lboro.ac.uk
Are the flats single-sex?

Not all of them, but the vast majority are single-sex. Block 5 is an exception due to its large size, so it includes mixed-gender flats.
If we’ve brought our own pillows, where should we put the ones already provided?

You can either speak to your cleaner or store the provided pillows somewhere in your room. We also recommend buying a thick mattress topper, as the mattresses can be quite thin.
Are the showers in the shared bathrooms like cubicles? And is there enough private space in the bathrooms to get dressed?

Yes, the showers in the shared bathrooms are like cubicles, providing privacy. There is also a separate area in the bathroom where you can change and have enough space to get dressed.
How many blocks are there?

We have blocks 1-24 but no block 6, 7, 13. So overall, there are 21 blocks in total.
Is it worth getting a bike?

It depends on the location of your lectures. While the campus is quite central and most areas are within walking distance, some lectures might be up to 20 minutes away. In such cases, having a bike could be useful. You can keep bikes in the bike sheds around campus and bike shed in Royce.
Do the blocks have elevators or just stairs?

All blocks except one have only stairs, so most of the buildings are stair-access only.
How many floors does each block have?

These vary from block, but either two or three floors.
When do we pay the deposit for the room?

The deposit is for Unite Hall, not for Royce. Instead, you'll receive an invoice for the room about two weeks into the term, after student finance has processed. This should give everyone time to manage the payment. You pay for your room in three termly instalments, which are added to your student account. If there is any damage to the room, you'll be billed for the repairs. Additionally, fines can be issued for damage in communal spaces, and if the responsible party isn't identified, the fine may be divided among all residents.
Are visitors allowed to stay in our rooms, or do they need to stay somewhere else?

Yes, visitors can stay in your room, but please keep it reasonable—no extended stays for months. For longer visits, there are hotels on campus where your parents or other guests can stay when they visit.
How does the catering system work?

Royce is a catered hall Monday - Friday, providing 3 meals a day. This provides a great opportunity for socialising with other people in Royce. The menu will be on rotation with different menus so you aren’t eating the same thing each week. The meal times are as follows; Breakfast 8am-10am Lunch 12pm - 3pm Dinner 5pm - 7pm There is a sandwich bar available to you at lunch, and a salad bar is open at lunch and dinner. You are also welcome to bring tupperware to the dining hall and get your meals served in them. If you're. having a busy day you can always take them away with you!
Are we catered on move-in day?

Yes, but only partially. On Monday, an evening meal will be provided, but there won't be any lunch or breakfast during the day. Starting Tuesday, normal catering services will be available.
What’s the food like?

The food is catered five days a week, with typically two or three options, including vegetarian and non-vegetarian choices. Breakfast is served from 8-10 AM, lunch from 12-3 PM, and dinner from 5-7 PM. The food has improved over time, thanks to our CAS rep, Leon, who has worked hard to ensure that everyone can enjoy the meals here.
Is there any Halal food?

Yes, Halal food is available. Just speak to the canteen staff, and they will accommodate your dietary needs.
How do you manage meal times around lectures?

You will always have time to get lunc in between lectures. Lunch is from 12-1:30, but the sandwich bar is always open until 3:00. You can also preorder a packed lunch the day before to collect at breakfast time if you know you won't have time to come and get lunch. Finally, you can get lunch at any catered dining hall, so you can go to ones closest to your lectures if you need to! Find out more at https://www.lboro.ac.uk/services/food-drink/hall-catering/menus/
How does the post work? If ordering online, do you need to include your block and flat number as well as Royce?

For food deliveries, they can be picked up outside the Royce Dining Hall. For regular mail, include your student ID in the address. It will be delivered to Herbert Manzoni, and once it’s processed, you’ll receive an email letting you know it's ready for pickup. Please see other FAQs for more details.
What is the address to add to Parcels and Post being delivered to me?

Your name Your student ID number Royce Hall Loughborough University Loughborough Leicestershire LE11 3TJ
Where do I collect letters and parcels from?

All letters are delivered to Royce Hall Reception (Image Sales Office on Google Maps) and sorted into surname order for you to pick up. All parcels are delivered to the Herbert Manzoni Building opposite Edward Herbert Building. When a parcel arrives, the university will send an email to your student email address with a QR code telling you that your parcel is ready to collect. You MUST have your QR code to collect parcels. If you are unable to collect a parcel, email creativeandprint@lboro.ac.uk to arrange alternative arrangements. Herbert Manzoni Opening Times: Monday: 9am - 5pm Tuesday: 9am - 5pm Wednesday: 9:30am - 5pm Thursday: 9am - 5pm Friday: 9am - 5pm 4:00pm - Last postage drop off
Where can I get Amazon Parcels delivered to?

There are three Amazon Lockers located on Campus that you can send your parcels to through the delivery section of the Amazon App. The nearest locker to Royce is called 'Reijs' and is located right next to Co-Op, which is a 30-second walk up the hill from Royce Dining Hall.
What facilities do we have in the common room?

The common room is well-equipped with a variety of facilities. There's a room with sofas, a projector, and a music system. In the games room, you'll find a darts board, pool table, a table tennis table, and a foosball table.
How far away is everything I need?

Royce Hall is located right in the middle of campus, meaning we are close to everything! We are 2 minutes away from the local shop and fast food take-away, as well as 5 minutes to lecture halls, the library and the union. Also, it's only a 20 minute walk into town (10 mins on the campus bus).
What paid jobs can we get on campus?

On campus, you can find paid jobs at the Union, LSU, Spar, and Purple Onion. There are also opportunities as a student ambassador and potentially at the Subway bar. We encourage maintaining a good work-life balance while managing your job and studies.
How do we register for the GP?

You can find a step-by-step guide for registering with the GP in the Ready Set Loughborough resources. Alternatively, you can find out more at https://www.lboro.ac.uk/services/student-services/topics/registering-with-your-gp/
Are Powerbase and Holywell gyms free for students?

No, you need to purchase a Gold or Silver membership to access Powerbase and Holywell gyms.
Can you just show up at the pool and use it if you have the Silver membership?

No, you need to book your swim session in advance, usually at least a day before. The pool is popular and often busy, so it's important to plan ahead.
What shops are on campus? Is there somewhere to buy toiletries?

There are a couple of Co-Op stores on campus where you can buy toiletries, with one store being less than a minute walk from Royce. They may be a bit more expensive than shops in town, but they offer convenience. If you prefer, you can also visit the town shops, though they require a bit more effort to get to.
Would you say campus is overall safe at night from your experience?

Campus is very safe as it is full of uni students, Sub wardens are around Royce if you need help and there is 24/7 security on campus so they are always only a call away if you need help.
How does the campus bus work?

The campus bus goes all around campus from the Western End at Holywell down to the Eastern Side by the Union. You do not have to pay for the bus if you are going from campus to campus, However, the bus also goes into town and to the train station. If you want to go to town or to the train station, you have to pay, which is around £2.90. If you download the 'Hugo' app, you can see the times of the busses, but generally busses run every ten minutes.
How cheap are the drinks in the Union?

While exact prices aren't available online, a pint is generally around £3.50 and a VK is about £3. The prices are comparable to other places around Loughborough—neither overly cheap nor expensive.
Would clubs and pubs accept the national ID from my country?

Yes, most clubs and pubs should accept your national ID as long as it clearly shows your date of birth.
Who / what is committee?

Committee is a group of students who run all your events in Royce and welcome you into your accommodation. We plan all events for you, as well as look after you and ensure your time in Royce is the best it possibly can be! We have all lived in Royce previously, and the majority live in Royce whilst part of committee, so we know it all when it comes to Royce. You can find out more about us and our roles at https://www.roycehall.co.uk/meet-the-committee
How do you join the committee?

You can join the committee at two different times: November and February. This period is known as Hustings. To apply, you'll need to create a video introducing yourself and the position you're interested in. You'll then compete with others for that position by earning votes from your peers in the hall.
How do you join the IMS teams, and how often do they have training/matches?

Trials and training sessions for IMS teams usually start during the first week of lectures. Details will be posted on the Royce IMS Instagram page over the weekend. Additionally, there's a sports bazaar during Welcome Week where many AU sports teams will be recruiting, so it's a great opportunity to explore and find a team that interests you. For IMS (Inter-Mural Sport) - hall vs hall - please message one of our sport secs for more information.
What is the difference between the sporting memberships?

The different sport memberships differ on what they offer. For example, the gold (highest) membership grants you access to all facilities, including powerbase gym, athletics centre and swimming pool, as well as the biggest discounts off of booking pitches/ courts etc. You can get memberships yearly, termly or for 3 months at a time. You can find out more details at https://www.lboro.ac.uk/sport/memberships-prices/
If I purchase the Silver sports membership, can I upgrade to Gold later, or will I be committed to Silver for the entire year?

In previous years, it has been possible to upgrade from a Silver to a Gold sports membership. However, we can't confirm if this policy remains the same for this year. To get the most accurate and up-to-date information, we recommend contacting the sports centre directly or checking their official website.
Do they offer discounts on sport memberships?

You get an early bird discount if you sign up before the start of the year (until the 25th September), allowing you to access the memberships for a cheaper price.
Do you have to pay to join societies?

It depends on the society. Some societies require a membership fee, while others do not. However, you will need to purchase a base society pass from the LSU (Loughborough Students' Union) to join any society. Please contact our societies rep for more info, and make sure to attend the societies bazaar during welcome week too!
How do I find out about societies?

You can attend the Societies bazaar on the first weekend of Welcome Week. Here, all the societies at the university will be displaying themselves and telling you all about what they do! There is plenty to chose from and get involved with! Please message our societies rep for more information.