FAQs

1. Where can I find good student deals?

Most retailers, cafés, and restaurants around campus offer student discounts. Keep an eye out for signage, or ask at the till if they have any deals. Normally, all you'll need to do to avail of the discount is show your student ID (your TCard). By paying with your TCard, you can also get 10% off at College cafés, the Buttery, and the Dining Hall.

Make sure to read your weekly Students' Union (SU) emails, as these often include even better, limited-time offers for food, services, and events in and around campus.

2. Can I get any discounts on travel?

We recommend that all students acquire a Child, Young Adult or Student Leap Card. Using a Young Adult or Student Leap Card will save you an average of 50% of the cost of a standard, adult fare on travel nationwide. Using a Child Leap Card can make travel up to 85% cheaper!

You can buy a Child Leap Card if you are aged 18 or younger. If you are 19-25, you can buy a Young Adult Leap Card. Both of these kinds of Leap Cards can be ordered online at leapcard.ie.

If you are aged 26+, you can apply for a Student Leap Card online at leapcard.ie, however you must either collect your card in person, or complete a remote verification process. See www.tcdsu.org for more information.

A TFI (Transport for Ireland) Leap Card is a prepaid travel card that is the easiest way to pay your fare on public transport around Ireland. It is valid on Dublin Bus, the Luas, the DART, and most TFI services and commercial bus operators throughout the country.

3. How do I make a budget?

In order to budget, you need to:

1. Know how much income you have
2. Know when your money comes into your account
3. Know what your outgoings are
4. Know when your bills are due

e.g.

• Rent
• Utilities
• Phone
• Insurance (Health, car, contents, etc.)

You then need to decide on a way to record this information which makes it easy to track your outgoings against your income, and which in turn helps you to ensure that you have the necessary money in your account on the dates that bills or other expenses are due.

When making a budget, it's really important to be honest and not estimate your outgoings based on your ideal self who never buys unnecessary things. To give yourself a better of idea of how much you spend on a day-to-day basis, keep track of everything (yes, everything!) you spend for a month. Then you'll have a better idea of how much you need to set aside each month to cover your current expenses.

If you're looking to reduce your spending, once you know what you spend, try to cut out expenses in areas you don't need. Give yourself a fixed budget for certain, more frivolous outgoings for a week or month. Then only spend that! It's easier said than done, but it will give you more control over your finances, and hopefully reduce stress long-term.

4. How much should I budget myself per week/month?

There is no hard and fast rule as to how much you should budget yourself per week or month. The most important thing to remember is that your income should be greater than the cost of your outgoings. If it is not, try to identify areas where you could be spending less - eg. on nights out, clothes, coffees; or, try to increase your income by taking on a part-time job.

If your income is lower the the cost of your essential outgoings (ie. the money you need to keep the lights on, keep yourself warm and fed, travel to campus, etc.), then - in addition to securing reasonable part-time work, see the information on the Student Assistance Fund below.

5. What do I do if my grant or research funding hasn’t come through yet?

Try not to panic.  Some people do experience delays in their funding.  Try to budget carefully, and remember that you can contact the TCDSU Welfare Officer for a temporary Welfare Loan (see below) if things get a bit tight.

If there is an ongoing issue, you can talk to your Tutor or the Postgraduate Advisory Service about applying for the Student Assistance Fund (see below).  Postgraduate students should also consult their Supervisor or the Postgraduate Director of Teaching and Learning in their School regarding their research funding.

6. What can I do if I'm running low on funds?

If you find yourself in a temporary financial pinch, you can talk to the TCDSU Welfare Officer about availing of a Welfare Loan up to the value of €100 (see below).

If finance is becoming a significant, ongoing stress in your life and budgeting skills aren’t to blame, talk to your Tutor or to the Postgraduate Advisory Service about applying for the Student Assistance Fund (see below).

7. What is a Welfare Loan?

A Welfare Loan is a temporary cash sum up to the value of €100 that students can avail of - interest-free - if things get tricky.  You will need to pay it back, but if you know that a transfer is clearing or a grant is coming and you need a dig out until it arrives, talk to the TCDSU Welfare Officer. More information is available at www.tcdsu.org/welfare-equality.

8. What is the Student Assistance Fund and am I eligible to apply?

The Student Assistance Fund is a small emergency reserve for students in significant financial difficulty. Not everyone is eligible for it, but if you’re finding finance is becoming a significant, ongoing stress in your life and budgeting skills aren’t to blame, talk to your Tutor or to the Postgraduate Advisory Service – they may be able to help you with an application.

Undergraduates should visit https://www.tcd.ie/seniortutor/students/undergraduate/financial-assistance/saf/ for further information.

Postgraduates should visit https://www.tcd.ie/seniortutor/students/postgraduate/financial-assistance/ to learn more.

1. How do I find my way around?

We recommend using the ’Finder’ feature of the Trinity Live app to help you navigate the campus. This feature can provide you with directions not only to buildings on campus, but even specific rooms!

If you don't want to download the Trinity Live app, you can find printable and interactive maps of campus at: https://www.tcd.ie/Maps/. You can also find a map of key student services at the bottom of this page.

Directions to and from the College from various transport hubs and locations around Dublin are available at: https://www.tcd.ie/Maps/directions.php.

2. Where can I hang out on campus?

We have a number of student spaces around campus. We call these spaces: 'Zón Mac Léinn' (which is fake Irish for 'student space'), and you can find one wherever you see a large 'Z' sign. Two of the most-used Zóin Mac Léinn are room 4017 in the Arts Block and the old Bank of Ireland space in the Hamilton Building.

In addition to our designated student spaces, there are loads of sofas, chairs, and tables dotted around campus buildings (for example, in the Business School foyer) which you are welcome to use between classes.

3. Where can I eat on campus?

You can eat in any of the student spaces on campus, or in any of the miscellaneous hang-out spots, except where there is a sign specifically stating otherwise. Most student spaces have microwaves which you can use to heat your food.

If you want to buy lunch on campus, head to The Buttery or The Dining Hall for a sit-down meal, or grab something quick from The Perch, The Forum, or the Aras an Phiarsaigh or Students' Union cafés. For more information, visit https://www.visittrinity.ie/eat/, or check out @trinitysucafe on Instagram.

4. How do I know which gates are open when?

Campus gates open and close at different times, and it can be useful to know when so that you don't walk all the way to a specific exit only to find it's closed!

You can find all the locations and opening hours of campus entry points at https://www.tcd.ie/Maps/access-times.php.

5. How do I get a locker in College?

You can rent a locker online at tcard.tcd.ie. Locker rentals open each September, and lockers are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Lockers are located in buildings across campus, and in off-campus locations - including the Arts Block, Hamilton Building, and the TBSI.

Lockers in the 1937 Reading Room are managed by the Students' Union. To rent one of these lockers ONLY, visit https://www.tcdsu.org/services/postgraduate-services.

6. Where can I take money out on campus?

There are no ATMs on campus, but there are several located nearby. You could visit the AIB on Grafton Street for both ATM and general banking services. Bank of Ireland, meanwhile, has a branch in the old parliament building on College Green.

We recommend opening a student bank account with an Irish or EU banking provider whilst living in Dublin and studying at Trinity. The majority of student accounts allow you to make ATM withdrawals free of charge, whilst general current account holders will only be able to make ATM withdrawals if they pay a small fee. Maintenance fees may also be charged on non-student accounts.

1. What are clubs and societies? Is there a difference between them?

In Trinity, the word “club” tends to refer to a student-led sports organisation, and, “society,” to a student-led organisation that is not directly engaged in sports. For example, we have a trampolining club, but a knitting society (though, knitting can be effective at exercising certain muscles!).

You can find a list of TCD Clubs at: https://www.tcd.ie/sport/student-sport/sport-clubs/, and of TCD societies at: www.trinitysocieties.ie.

2. How do I join a club/society?

Once you've browsed the full list of Trinity societies and sports clubs, you can join online (normally at any time during the academic year), or sign up in person at the Freshers' Fair held each September.

Each club/society will typically email their members on a weekly basis to invite them to events and encourage them to get involved. Most clubs/societies are also pretty active on Instagram, so give them a follow to learn more.

3. Is there a limit to how many clubs and/or societies I can join?

You can join as many clubs and societies as you want to – just be realistic about what you can commit to.  Most students recommend getting really involved in a few groups rather than trying to spread yourself too thinly across a lot of different ones, but the choice is yours!

4. Do I have to pay to join a club/society?

You will normally have to pay a small membership fee to join a club or society. The fee is typically less than €10, and is put towards the cost of events, equipment, insurance, coaching, and/or speakers. Societies whose focus is on charity work or volunteering may be free to join, and you will often be able to try out for a sports club's team before deciding whether to purchase full membership. In rare cases, where a club's equipment, insurance, or coaching is particularly expensive, membership fees can exceed a tennner.

Once you've paid your membership fee for the club(s) or society(ies) of your choice, you'll have access to a ton of free events and opportunities with them, and many offer exclusive discounts with businesses around the city as a perk. If you join a club or society at the Freshers' Fair you might also receive a sign-up gift, such as a free coffee voucher, goodie bag, or entry into a raffle.

5. What is a committee member, and how do I become one?

A committee is a group of students who are elected to run a club or society. Every club and each society has its own constitution which includes a process for election to committee (normally at an Annual General Meeting, or, AGM).  Talk to the existing committee if you’re interested in getting more involved, and to find out how to stand for nomination.

1. How do I login to my IT accounts for the first time?

You can find all the information you need to access your IT accounts at  https://www.tcd.ie/itservices/students/orientation/getting-your-computer-account-and-email/.

2. Is there Wi-fi on campus? How do I connect to it?

Wi-Fi is available on campus and in most Trinity locations, including Trinity Hall.

All the instructions on how to get connected, and how to get help, can be found at https://www.tcd.ie/itservices/students/orientation/connecting-to-the-student-wi-fi/.

3. I already have an email account, do I have to use the TCD one as well?

It’s essential that you check your TCD email account regularly – all your course information, updates, and notifications from College will be sent there! 

Your TCD email is provided through ‘MyZone’ which is run by Google.  This means that as well as your email, you have access to calendar and cloud storage functions - which can be a really useful way to back-up your files and to collaborate on group work!

If you’re not sure about all of the functions of your MyZone account, or if you’re looking for instructions to send TCD emails to your personal account (or vice versa) you can find it all at https://www.tcd.ie/itservices/our-services/student-email/.

4. How do I print/scan/photocopy?

You can find the information you need to get started - including tutorial videos on how to top up your account, print from your own device, and scan to email - at www.tcdprint.ie.

If you need further advice, you can email helpdesk@tcdprint.ie; call (+353) 0877380498 (10am-1pm & 2pm-4pm, Monday-Friday); or visit Trinity's assigned Datapac technician in Iveagh Hall (main entrance to the BLU) between 2:30 and 4:30pm, Monday to Friday.

5. Is it true that students can buy discounted computers and software?

As a Trinity student, you have complimentary or discounted access to a range of software, including Adobe InDesign, Endnote, Google Earth Pro, and the Microsoft 365 Suite. You can find the full list of software, and information on accessing it, at: https://www.tcd.ie/itservices/our-services/software-advice-and-support/software-catalogue/.

Lots of suppliers also have deals for students on electronic college essentials, such as laptops and monitors, so it’s worth having a look around and doing some bargain hunting. IT Services have a selection of links to laptop discount schemes and advice for what to buy at: https://www.tcd.ie/itservices/students/orientation/purchasing-laptops/.

6. Where are the computer rooms?

Check out the map of IT Services Computer Rooms at: https://www.tcd.ie/itservices/our-services/it-services-computer-rooms/.

You can find additional computers dotted about the Library Reading Rooms, such as the ones by the Arts Block entrance in the Lecky Upper.

7. How can I reset my password?

If you’ve forgotten your password, don’t panic - we’ve all been there!

All the information you need to manage your IT account password can be found at https://www.tcd.ie/itservices/kb/accounts/password-change/.

8. Something isn’t working properly – who can help?

Trinity’s IT Services department have a support team who are able to help you online, over the phone, or in person.  Check out the IT Service Desk details and opening hours at: https://www.tcd.ie/itservices/help/.

The Students' Union also offer a computer and phone repair service, “Refresh,” which is based in House 6. You can find out more at: www.tcdsu.org/services/refresh-it-repairs.

1. How do I use the Library?

As part of your orientation, you will be offered a tour of your relevant Library reading room (though you are welcome to use any of the reading rooms throughout your studies) where you'll be shown how to find and borrow books. Once you've been on your tour, you can check out https://www.tcd.ie/library/using-library/ to refresh your knowledge of how to use the Library. If you’re an undergraduate, you can also always go back to your S2S Mentors with any questions, or to ask for assistance.

The Library run 'HITS' Classes (Helpful Information for Trinity Students and Staff) each autumn and spring which will deepen your understanding of essential aspects of academic writing and independent study, such as referencing and defining your research question. However, you can access support and training resources to help with everything from finding books, to scholarly communication, to submitting your thesis year-round at: https://www.tcd.ie/library/support/.

Remember that Library staff are there to help, so don’t be afraid to ask them anything you’re unsure of! Your Subject Librarian in particular is a good person to turn to if you get stuck or feel like you could be making more of the Library resources available to you. They run classes, take individual clinics, and can provide hands-on support in finding your reading list and developing your essay structure. You can talk to a Library Assistant at any of the Library's service counters, or contact your Subject Librarian directly via email. Find your Subject Librarian here: https://www.tcd.ie/library/support/subjects/.

2. Which books can I borrow and for how long?

Undergraduate students are welcome to borrow up to 10 'General Lending' books (tagged with the code LEN) at a time. They can take these books home for up to 4 weeks and can renew them up to 5 times if the item is not required by another reader. Undergraduates can also use up to 10 'Consultation-Only'/'Inter-Library Loan' materials at a time, but must do so within the Library itself and within general opening hours.

Postgraduates are welcome to borrow up to 50 'General Lending' books (tagged with the code LEN) at a time, including borrowable 'Inter-Library Loans.' They can take these books home for up to 12 weeks and can renew them once if the item is not required by another reader. Postgraduates can also use up to 50 'Consultation-Only'/non-borrowable 'Inter-Library Loan' materials at a time, but must do so within the Library itself and within general opening hours.

The Library also provide access to a wealth of databases, e-books, and other online resources - most of which you can access any time, any place using your TCD username and password. Visit https://libguides.tcd.ie/az.php for database access, and look for the line 'TCD-affiliated readers may click here for access.' when browsing using Stella Search.

3. What happens if I'm late to return a book?

If you are late to return a book that has not been requested by another reader, there is no charge. However, your Library account will no longer be in good standing if your item is more than 7 days overdue. If your account is not in good standing, you cannot borrow, request, or recall any additional items from the Library. You also cannot renew the item if it is more than 7 days overdue.

If you are late to return a book that has been requested by another reader, you will be charged €0.50 per item per day. Such an item cannot be renewed. As above, your account will no longer be in good standing if the item is more than 7 days overdue. Your account will also not be in good standing if you amass outstanding fines of more than €20. N.B. You must pay off all Library fines associated with your account in order to graduate.

For more information, visit: https://www.tcd.ie/library/using-library/fines.php.

4. Is there a 24-hour library/study space?

Yes. The lower floors of the Ussher Library transform into Kinsella Hall each evening and remain open overnight. All Trinity students can access Kinsella Hall outside of standard Library opening hours by swiping their ID card at the computer room entrance.

Postgraduate students can also access the 1937 Reading Room 24 hours a day using their ID cards.

For more information, visit: www.tcd.ie/Library/opening-hours/#accessibletabscontent1431013567191.

1. Where do I find all the information about orientation?

You can find all of the information about orientation online at https://www.tcd.ie/orientation from the end of August.  Be sure to check the site regularly as Orientation Week timetables and information can be subject to change.

2. Is my CAO/Application Number my TCD Student (ID) Number?

No. You’ll receive a letter and an e-mail with your new Trinity Student Number after you have accepted your place.

3. What is the Academic Registry?

The Academic Registry (AR) is a one-stop-shop for all your administration needs, including: admissions, registration, fees, timetabling, exams, graduation, transcripts, and more. You can find out about the services they provide at: https://www.tcd.ie/academicregistry/about/.

4. Where can I find the Academic Registry?

The Academic Registry (AR) is located in the Watts Building (part of the Hamilton complex) at the East End of campus. The Academic Registry is on the first floor, next to the Global Room.

You can also contact the Academic Registry via email (academic.registry@tcd.ie) or by calling (+353) 01896 4500 (Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm).

5. Can I register if I’m waiting for a SUSI grant to come through to pay my fees?

During the online payment process (which you must complete as part of registration), SUSI applicants should indicate that their "Sponsor" is SUSI; they will subsequently be prompted to provide their SUSI Application Number which will begin with "WO."  The College will accept this as proof that the student has made an application to SUSI.  The student’s liability will be calculated in the expectation that their application to SUSI is successful.  SUSI will notify the College of the outcome of the application for funding.  Any student who is unsuccessful in their SUSI application will subsequently be billed for their tuition fee by the College.

For further information, please visit: https://www.tcd.ie/academicregistry/fees-and-payments/applicants/what-financial-support-is-available/.

6. Who can I talk to if I’m having trouble registering online?

Most registration difficulties can be overcome by following the steps outlined in the Academic Registry's online Registration Guide.

If you have consulted this Guide and are continuing to encounter problems while completing the online registration process, you can call in to the Academic Registry for assistance, or you may submit an enquiry with the subject line "Registration Difficulty" via email (academic.registry@tcd.ie) or by clicking the "Ask TCD" button on the registration screens on the my.tcd.ie portal. Please bear in mind that responses may take several working days during busy periods.

7. What do I do if I need to change my registration details? E.g. name, address, date of birth, gender

The process for this depends on which details you need to change.  Have a look at https://www.tcd.ie/academicregistry/service-desk/documents-and-forms/updating-personal-details/ for full information.

8. Do I need to have completed Module Choice/Enrolment Forms before Freshers' Week?

This varies from course to course, so check on your my.tcd.ie portal to see if you need to enrol in modules online and the deadline(s) for this enrolment.

9. How do I get a student ID card?

If you're an incoming student, ID card (TCard) collection will take place during Orientation (Freshers’) Week. You will find more information about this on the Orientation webpages in August. You must have completed registration to receive a TCard, and you will need to bring a form of photo ID (e.g. passport, driver's licence) with you to collect it.

If you're a current student and you need a replacement TCard, drop into the Academic Registry, remembering to bring a form of photo ID with you. Replacement TCards cost €20, and payment must be made (by credit/debit card only) before a new TCard can be issued. However, this fee will be waived if you have lost your card due to theft and can produce a Garda report.

1. Where can I meet new people?

There are lots of ways to meet new people both on and off campus, and you'll be making new friends in no time!

New undergraduates will be assigned to mentor groups by the Student 2 Student (S2S) Programme, and - even before they step foot into their first lecture - their Mentors will be in touch about meet-ups and events designed to help students make new connections within their courses and beyond. The Students' Union (SU) (and Trinity Hall JCR for those living in Trinity Hall) will also be organising events for people to get together, and there are a range of social spaces on campus to hang out or attend events in - including the SU Café and the Global Room.

In addition to social spaces like the Global Room and the House 6 Kitchen, Postgraduate students can avail of the Postgraduate Common Room (located in House 7), and should keep an eye on emails and social media updates from the Students' Union for Postgrad events and activities.

If you're feeling nervous about meeting new people, the most important thing to remember is that most people don't know other students when they come to Trinity so you needn't feel like you are the only person looking to make new friends!

Obviously, you don't have to make all of your friends in your first week of College! There'll always be ways for you to meet new people during your time at Trinity; you could join a sports club or a society, chat to your classmates whilst waiting for a lecture to start, or just say a friendly hello and strike up a conversation with someone you cross paths with on campus.

2. Who can I talk to?

If you're feeling stressed out, worried, or upset, the first thing to do is to talk about it.

From fellow students (Niteline, S2S Peer Support, TCDSU Welfare Officer, Trinity Hall JCR Welfare Officer and Welfare Team) to professional counselling and other supports (Chaplaincy, Postgraduate Advisory Service, Student Learning Development, The Global Room, Tutorial Service), there are a range of services on and off campus designed to give you space and time to get things off your chest. These services will also be able to guide you to additional supports as needed. Have a look at the links in this passage and see what's right for you.

Visit our "Supports & Services page" for more information on the supports and services available to you as a Trinity student.

3. What is Trinity Ents?

The Trinity Ents team are there to help you make the most of your time outside of the classroom. Headed up by the TCDSU Ents officer, and working in collaboration with clubs, societies, and other members of the College community, Trinity Ents organise everything from Freshers' Week club nights, to Pav Fridays, to Trinity Ball. Find out more at: https://www.tcdsu.org/ents, or check out their Instagram page: @trinityents.

4. What is Trinity Ball?

Trinity Ball takes place annually towards the beginning of Trinity Term (after the end of Semester 2 teaching). For one night every year, campus becomes a festival ground as stages are set for live performances from Irish and international acts. Trinity Ball is a ticketed event, so keep an eye on the @trinityents Instagram page for details of how and when to get your tickets which typically cost between €90 and €100 (including fees).

1. What is the Students' Union?

Trinity College Dublin Students' Union (TCDSU) represents every student in Trinity College Dublin within the College and on a national and international stage. They can help with everything from academic concerns, to welfare issues, to campaigning for social causes, to making the most of nights out in Dublin, and they provide a range of services such as the Accommodation Advisory Service and an IT repair service called "Refresh."

TCDSU is led by a team of full-time Sabbatical Officers (often called 'Sabbats') who are elected by their fellow students each year and who take a year out either during or at the end of their studies to take on their role. These Sabbats are supported by a team of Part-Time Officers, Class Reps, and other student volunteers who engage with and facilitate Union activities alongside their studies. Check out https://www.tcdsu.org/your-union/our-structure to learn more, and to see how you can get involved!

2. Am I a member of the Students' Union?

Yes. Every Trinity student automatically becomes a member of TCDSU.

You can engage with the Union as much or as little as you choose. If you're looking to get more involved, two of the best ways are to attend an SU Council meeting or run for Class Rep (see below).

3. What is a Class Rep?

A Class Rep is the elected liaison person between a class and the Students’ Union, and between a class and course administration/the School.  They will arrange meetings to take class queries/concerns to the relevant staff or Students' Union member, attend SU Council to vote on issues on behalf of your class, and will organise social events to encourage class bonding.  You can find out more about Class Reps and their function on the TCDSU website.

4. How do I become a Class Rep?

Class Reps are normally elected by their classes at the beginning of Semester 1.  To find out more about the election process for this academic year, go to the TCDSU website, drop by their stall during Freshers' Fair, or contact the Education Officer.

1. Do I have to buy all the books on my reading lists?

Please don't buy every book on your reading list before you arrive. Trying to buy all the books on your reading list can become very costly very quickly, and you might find you only need to consult a short exert of a very expensive book once! Instead, see if you can access the materials you need through the Library. Ask a Library Assistant or your Subject Librarian to help you if you’re not sure how to find a book or need to know more about borrowing restrictions, and don't forget to check out the Library's collection of online databases.

Some classes have a rota and students take it in turns to borrow a book and photocopy/scan materials for everyone else in the class (provided it’s not a breach of copyright of course!). Ask your Class Rep if you’d like to set up a system like this yourselves.

If you can't find what you're looking for in the Library - if another student is currently borrowing the material, for example - remember that there are student societies associated with most Schools/programmes of study, such as the Literary Society (LitSoc) or the Psychological Society (Pysch Soc). Many of these societies will keep a collection of materials for their members to use - often donated by your course's predecessors - so do get in touch and ask if they can help.

If you really need your own copy of a text, have a look for second-hand books advertised through the Students' Union Bookshop, on noticeboards around campus, or on sites like World of Books. Your S2S Mentors may also be able to show you the most affordable place to find the relevant books for your course.

As you will have seen by reading the above, courtsey and goodwill help everyone to access the materials they need. If you do purchase your own copy of a book, consider selling or donating the text once you no longer need it. If you're borrowing a Library copy, make sure to return the book on time and in the same condition you found it. If you know that the majority of your class are struggling to access a text, ask your Class Rep to talk to your lecturer/Module Co-Ordinator on everyone's behalf about the issue.

2. How do I know if I’m studying properly?

Independent study and research is at the heart of your degree in Trinity, and most students need some time to adjust to this.  If you’re used to being told what to read and when and how to apply this reading, having to use your own judgement and motivation can be a lot trickier than it sounds!  Don’t be afraid to seek guidance from your S2S Mentors, lecturers, Supervisor, or your Tutor (UG), a Postgraduate Advisor, or the Postgraduate Advisory Service if you have any concerns, and remember that Student Learning Development have a host of online resources, workshops, and one-to-one supports to help you work out how to make the most of your personal study.

3. What happens if I miss/have to miss a class?

Different Schools and courses have varying attendance requirements, so check your Course Handbook to familiarise yourself with what is expected from you. It is particularly important to know whether anyone should be notified of reasons for absence from class, and - if so - who that person is and how to contact them.

Remember that it will probably be your responsibility to pro-actively obtain notes from any missed classes and to make sure that you’re up-to-date with the course.

If you are absent from more than one class in a module and/or for a significant period, be sure to talk to the Module Co-Ordinator and your Tutor/Supervisor as soon as possible.

If attendance is taken and/or forms part of your assessment, be sure to get a medical certificate if you have to miss a class due to sickness. You can contact the College Health Service for a consultation to obtain a medical certificate.

4. I feel like I’m behind on my workload, what should I do?

There are lots of reasons why students sometimes feel that they’re falling behind.  It might be that you’re finding it hard to apply a new concept/theory that’s been introduced in the class, or that you feel like other members of the class have more pre-existing knowledge of something than you do.  It might simply be that you feel as though you should be fitting more into your day than you’re managing to achieve.  It could be that something has happened that has taken away from your study time, and you don’t know how to recuperate it.

If you have been absent from classes and/or have not been able to undertake study due to personal circumstances, make sure you inform your Tutor/Supervisor as soon as possible so that they can help you to take the time that you need and to get back on track when you’re ready.

If you are able to attend classes and to study but still feel that you’re behind, talk to your lecturers and check out the time management, study, and essay writing resources that Student Learning Development have to offer.

5. What is plagiarism?

Plagiarism is the legal terminology for claiming work as your own when it was undertaken by somebody else, and it's a big deal in the academic world. Your lecturers will use Turnitin and other software to scan your work for plagiarism, and it's essential to familiarise yourself with the College's Plagiarism Policy.

That being said, it's not expected that you know anything about academic plagiarism and how to avoid it before you arrive at university. To help you learn what to do (and what not to do!), the Library have created the "Ready Steady Write" plagiarism tutorial which you must complete before submitting assessed work online. You can also always speak to your lecturer, TA, Supervisor, or Subject Librarian if you have questions.

6. How do I write references in my essays?

Your Course Handbook normally contains guidelines for essay writing - including which style of referencing to use (it varies School by School!) and example references to follow.  If you’re not sure whether you’re referencing correctly or need help referencing, you can ask your Subject Librarian for assistance.

7. Can anyone proof-read my essay for me?

Proof-reading is a specialised skill and not a service that is available free of charge in the College. Before engaging a proof-reader, be sure to check your Course Handbook; some courses do not allow 3rd-party proof-reading of assessed work.

8. How do I prepare for exams?

Exam preparation begins with making sure you have clear notes from your lectures, seminars, and tutorials which you can use as a foundation for your revision.

In order to know what to expect from your exam, you can view and practice previous papers by heading to www.tcd.ie/academicregistry/exams/past-papers/annual/. (Use your TCD username and password for access).

You might also keep an eye out for useful resources and workshops from Student Learning Development , such as their ’Exam Skills’ webpages: www.tcd.ie/Student_Counselling/student-learning/learning-resources/exams.

Above all, remember that balancing your revision with rest, breaks, and stress management will help you to study more effectively. Take a look at this document on managing exam stress, compiled by the Student Counselling Service, or visit their webpages to check out the supports available to you: www.tcd.ie/Student_Counselling.

9. How does the grading system work?

I	First Class Honors	70-100%
II.1	Second Class Honors, first division	60-69%
II.2	Second Class Honors, second division	50-59%
III	Third Class Honors	40-49%
F	Fail - F1	30-39%
F2	Fail - F2	below 29%

N.B. Some courses may vary from the above, so check your Course Handbook for details!

In some countries students regularly receive over 90%, but in Ireland anything above 70% is rare and considered excellent - both literally and figuratively first class.

10. Can I get support with my study if I have a disability?

The Trinity disAbility Service ensures that reasonable accommodations are put in place for disabled students to enable them to reach their full potential while studying. Students who are registered with the disAbility Service are assigned a disAbility Officer who they can approach with any concerns or problems they may be facing, and who can help them to access the supports they may need to improve their time at Trinity.

For more information (including a guide on registering with the Service), please visit: https://www.tcd.ie/disability/.

11. What help is available if English is not my first language?

Trinity’s Centre for English Language Learning and Teaching offers courses in English for Academic Purposes to assist students who are studying and writing in English for the first time, or for students who need a little more assistance fine-tuning their academic language.  All the information about these courses - including dates and costs - can be found at https://www.tcd.ie/slscs/english/.

12. Is there any additional support for maths skills?

There is a Maths Help Room available to all students working with maths and/or statistics, regardless of course.  If you are struggling with a particular topic, do drop by! The earlier you pop in, the more likely they are to be able to assist you in overcoming any issues or concerns that you have.  Find out more about the service at: https://www.maths.tcd.ie/outreach/helproom/.

13. Is there any support available for programming?

There is an Undergraduate Programming Centre (UGPC) available to all students working with computer programming, regardless of course. If you’re struggling with a particular topic, do drop by! The sooner you pop in, the more likely they are to be able to assist you in overcoming any issues or concerns that you have.  Find out more about the service by visiting https://teaching.scss.tcd.ie/general-information/ugpc/.

14. What are Schols?

Schols refer to Foundation and Non-Foundation Scholarship Awards which are made based on the results of an optional set of examinations undertaken in the January of your Senior Fresh (2nd) year.  For more information, visit: https://www.tcd.ie/academicregistry/exams/scholarship/.

15. Can I study abroad?

Many students choose to study abroad at a partner organisation during their Senior Fresh (2nd) or Junior Sophister (3rd) years. Destinations are as varied as St. Andrews and South Korea!

Check out your Course Handbook to see what study abroad options are available to you. There is also useful information about Erasmus and Exchange programmes at: www.tcd.ie/study/study-abroad/outbound/index.php.

We recommend putting some time aside during your Junior Fresh (1st) year to consider whether you would be interested in an Erasmus or Exchange programme; most exchanges are contingent on your achieving an average of 60% or above in your JF year, and you should explore the financial support available to assist you overseas.

16. What if I want to transfer course?

If you’re starting to feel that the course you’re studying isn’t right for you, the first thing to do is to talk about why.

If you’re an undergraduate student, check in with your S2S Mentors and/or students in the years above you.  They will be able to let you know what to expect in future modules and classes.  Talk to your Tutor as well - they will be able to advise you around potential options and are the only person who can make an official application for transfer if this is what you choose to do. If you are unable to contact your Tutor, get in touch with the Senior Tutor's Office at stosec@tcd.ie.

Postgraduate students can avail of support from S2S Peer Support and/or the Postgraduate Advisory Service.

17. What if I need to take some time out?

If something happens that makes it hard for you to focus exclusively on your study, or if you feel for any reason that your time in Trinity is being negatively impacted and that you may need a breather, please talk to your Tutor, Supervisor, or the Postgraduate Advisory Service as soon as possible.  Your Tutor/Supervisor/the Postgraduate Student Support Officer will have experience in what arrangements can be made to assist you - including the option to go "Off Books," which means taking some time off by not registering as a student.

1. Where do I find my timetable?

Your main lecture timetable is available on your my.tcd.ie portal.  Regularly scheduled tutorials and seminars should also appear on this timetable. However, these classes (as well as one-off or irregular classes) are scheduled by your Course Office, and they may have their own method of providing you with these details - such as posting information to your course notice boards, or emailing them to you. Check your Course Handbook for more information, and contact your Course Office if you have any questions.

2. What do all the abbreviations on my timetable mean?

A lot of buildings and lecture theatres on campus have more than one name, or a name and a number that aren’t necessarily used together. Many of the names are also abbreviated. To help guide you, you can find most common abbreviations at https://www.tcd.ie/Maps/facilities.php#rooms, ask for clarification from your Course Office, or, if you’re an undergraduate student, talk to your S2S Mentors.

3. What is the difference between Semesters and Terms?

Trinity operates according to a very traditional calendar based on the court system. Our Michaelmas Term runs from August to December, Hilary Term from January to March, and Trinity Term from April to August.

You will find that students and staff alike more commonly navigate the academic year according to the Teaching Semester structure. Teaching Semester 1 runs from August to December, and Semester 2 from January to May. The summer research period is from May to August. To see the Academic Year Structure, visit: https://www.tcd.ie/calendar/academic-year-structure/.

4. Why don’t my lectures start until Week 5?

Be very careful when reading your timetable, as timetable weeks correspond to the weeks of the Term, whilst teaching weeks align with the Semester structure. Teaching Week 1 for Junior Fresh students normally begins on Week 5 of Michaelmas Term (all other students typically start classes during Michaelmas Term Week 3). To help you understand your timetable, you may wish to consult the Academic Year Structure.

5. What do I do if there’s a clash on my timetable?

Don’t panic – this can happen from time to time.  Talk to someone in your Course Office as soon as possible.  If you’re in a multi-disciplinary course email both Course Offices, or, if you’re a Joint Honours student, talk directly to the Trinity Joint Honours Office if the conflict is between your two subjects.

6. What if there’s a change to my scheduled classes?

You will normally be made aware of any schedule changes via your TCD email (and Blackboard notifications will also forward to your inbox), so make sure to check it regularly! Schedule changes will only happen very occasionally and are typically a result of unavoidable or unforeseen circumstances.

1. What’s the difference between a Tutor and a Mentor?

A Tutor is an academic staff member who has taken on additional responsibilities and extensive training to ensure that undergraduate students have a point of contact if anything - professional or personal - is affecting their study or their Trinity experience.  Each Tutor has a group of 30-40 tutees who they support and who they can assist with College administration and advocacy

S2S Mentors are fellow students who have undertaken basic training to assist in your transition to College.  Mentors can absolutely help if you’d like to meet more people on your course, or if you need information or support and are not sure who to talk to.  If it’s a matter for your Tutor they will be able to assist you in approaching them.

If you are a postgraduate student, you can seek support from your Supervisor or from the Postgraduate Advisory Service.

2. How do I find out who my Tutor (or equivalent support-person) is?

If you are a full-degree undergraduate student, your Tutor’s information (including their contact email address) can be found on your "Student Profile" at my.tcd.ie. (If you are a full-time undergraduate student and your Tutor is not listed on your student profile, please contact stosec@tcd.ie as soon as possible.)

If you are a postgraduate student, your Supervisor’s details will be listed on your "Student Profile" in your my.tcd.ie portal.

If you are an Erasmus student, you will have received the name and contact email address of your Erasmus Co-Ordinator via email.

If you are a Visiting/Exchange, non-Erasmus student, your Tutor is Professor Emma Stokes. Contact her at international.tutor@tcd.ie.

3. Do I need to contact my Tutor during Orientation Week?

It’s strongly recommended!  Most Tutors will email you in the first couple of weeks, but, if yours doesn’t, take the opportunity to say hello to them yourself and it will be much easier for you to contact them again if and when you need them. Remember to address the email professionally; some Tutors like to be addressed by their first name, but, unless they tell you this, address them as you would any other academic member of staff.

4. How do I contact my Tutor?

If your Tutor has advertised drop-in hours then you can call in to see them during those office times.  Alternatively, you can email your Tutor to ask any questions you have and/or to arrange an appointment.  Remember to address the email professionally; some Tutors like to be addressed by their first name but unless they tell you this, address them as you would any other academic member of staff.

5. What if I can’t contact my Tutor, or I don’t get a response?

Sometimes Tutors can’t respond immediately to emails.  Please don’t let situations get urgent – contact your Tutor in a timely way and allow time for a response.  If a Tutor hasn’t replied and the matter is getting more pressing, check to see if they have office hours, and drop by to check if they received your email and if they’re available for a conversation.

If you have been unable to access your Tutor, you can email the Senior Tutor's Office at stosec@tcd.ie to ask if someone else can assist you.

6. What if I want to change Tutor?

You can change your Tutor easily, without being asked the reason for your decision, by following these steps:

• Identify a new Tutor and ask them if they would agree to take you on as one of their tutees.
• Apply to the Senior Tutor's Office by emailing stosec@tcd.ie, giving the names of your previous Tutor and your new Tutor.
• If you are having difficulties finding a new Tutor, contact the Senior Tutor's Office (stosec@tcd.ie) for guidance.

Please note that it’s not advisable to change your Tutor without careful consideration, and that you can only elect to change your Tutor once during your degree course.