Welcome to United Medical and Dental Schools, Guy's and St Thomas's Hospitals
Starting university is a major life transition, especially when you’re joining a world‑class institution like United Medical and Dental Schools, Guy's and St Thomas's Hospitals (UMDS GTSH). In 2026 the school blends cutting‑edge research, high‑volume clinical exposure and a vibrant student community across three historic London sites – Guy's Hospital, St Thomas' Hospital and the Dental Hospital. This freshers guide walks you through everything you need to know for a smooth first year, from practical logistics to hidden gems that make campus life unforgettable.
Understanding the Campus Layout
UMDS GTSH isn’t a single campus; it’s a network of sites spread along the Thames. Knowing where each building lives will save you countless minutes each day.
Key Sites & What They Offer
- Guy's Hospital (Southwark) – Main teaching hub for medicine, anatomy labs, and the central library.
- St Thomas' Hospital (Lambeth) – Core clinical placements, simulation suites, and the student health centre.
- Dental Hospital (Southwark) – Dedicated dental clinics, prosthodontics labs, and research suites.
- University Centre (near London Bridge) – Student union, cafés, and the postgraduate study lounge.
All sites are linked by the London Underground (Northern Line, Jubilee Line) and several bus routes. A Transport for London (TfL) Oyster card is essential – it gives you unlimited travel within zones 1‑2 for a flat weekly rate, which is a huge money‑saver for students.
Accommodation Options & Budgeting
Finding a place to live in London can feel overwhelming, but UMDS GTSH offers a range of university‑managed halls and a strong partnership with private landlords. Below is a snapshot of typical costs for the 2026 academic year.
| Accommodation Type | Average Weekly Cost | Key Features |
|---|
| University Halls (single en‑suite) | £120 | All‑inclusive bills, on‑site laundry, 24‑hr security. |
| University Halls (shared en‑suite) | £98 | Lower cost, shared kitchen, vibrant social floor. |
| Private Studio (Southwark) | £150 | More independence, utilities separate. |
| Private Flatshare (Borough) | £110 | Split rent, communal living, closer to nightlife. |
👉 Pro Tip: Apply for university halls early (deadline usually March) – they fill up fast and often include a discount for early applicants.
Beyond rent, budget for groceries (£30‑£45 per week), transport (£30 per week with an Oyster weekly cap), and a modest entertainment allowance (£20‑£30). A typical first‑year student budget sits around £400‑¤500 per month.
Student Life & Societies
With over 120 student‑run societies, you’ll never run out of ways to unwind or develop professional skills.
Must‑Join Societies for Freshers
- Medical Students' Society – networking events, mentorship, and exam workshops.
- Dental Society – hands‑on workshops, guest lectures from leading clinicians.
- Health & Wellbeing Society – yoga, mindfulness, and peer‑support groups.
- International Students' Association – cultural nights, language exchange.
- Sports Clubs (rugby, rowing, climbing) – great for stress relief and building friendships.
"I joined the Medical Students' Society in week one and instantly felt part of a community. The study groups saved me during anatomy week!" - Aisha Khan, Year 1
Academic Structure & Study Tips
UMDS GTSH follows a blended learning model: lectures, problem‑based learning (PBL) tutorials, and early clinical exposure. Here’s how to stay on top of the workload.
Effective Study Strategies for First‑Year Students
- Plan weekly blocks – allocate 2‑3 hours for each module, plus a buffer for clinical placement debriefs.
- Use the university’s digital library – access over 10,000 e‑journals and past exam papers.
- Form PBL groups early – diverse perspectives improve critical thinking.
- Attend revision evenings – run by senior students and often include mock OSCE stations.
- Prioritise self‑care – regular sleep, exercise, and short breaks boost retention.
Don’t forget the clinical skills labs at St Thomas'. They run weekly simulation sessions where you practice venepuncture, suturing and patient communication under supervision.
Health, Wellbeing & Support Services
Medical and dental courses are demanding, so the university provides a robust support network.
- Student Counselling Service – free, confidential appointments (online or face‑to‑face).
- Academic Mentoring – each fresher is paired with a senior student mentor for the first semester.
- Wellbeing Hub – meditation rooms, gym access, and a 24‑hour helpline.
- Disability & Inclusion Office – tailored learning accommodations and assistive technology.
"During my first exam period I felt overwhelmed, but the counselling team helped me develop coping strategies that made a huge difference." - James Patel, Year 1
Living in London: Food, Nightlife & Culture
London is a global city, and your student life will be enriched by its culinary diversity and cultural events.
Affordable Food Spots Near Campus
- Borough Market – fresh produce, street food, and student discounts on weekdays.
- St Thomas' Café – budget‑friendly meals, vegan options, and a quiet study corner.
- Guy's Kitchen – daily specials for under £10.
- Local supermarkets (Tesco Express, Sainsbury’s) – great for bulk buying and meal prepping.
For nightlife, head to the South Bank for riverside bars, or explore Shoreditch’s eclectic club scene. Remember to stay safe – the university runs a free night‑time shuttle from the main halls to central nightlife zones on weekends.
Financial Aid & Scholarships
Medical and dental students can apply for a range of scholarships, bursaries and government loans.
- UK Student Loan – covers tuition and living costs; repayment starts once you earn over £31,000.
- UMDS GTSH Merit Scholarships – awarded for academic excellence and community involvement.
- Health & Care Bursary – for students from low‑income backgrounds, up to £150 per month.
👉 Pro Tip: Keep all scholarship application deadlines in a Google Calendar – missing one can cost you thousands.
Final Checklist for Freshers
One‑Week Before Arrival
- Confirm accommodation contract and arrange a key collection.
- Register for your student ID and set up your university email.
- Order a contact‑free Oyster card and load sufficient credit.
- Download the UMDS GTSH app – it contains timetables, campus maps and emergency contacts.
- Pack essential study gear (laptop, noise‑cancelling headphones, highlighters).
- Schedule a meeting with your academic mentor (available via the student portal).
With these tips in hand, you’re ready to dive into the vibrant, challenging, and rewarding world of United Medical and Dental Schools, Guy's and St Thomas's Hospitals. Remember, university is as much about personal growth as it is about academic achievement – embrace every opportunity, ask for help when you need it, and enjoy the journey.
FAQs – United Medical and Dental Schools, Guy's and St Thomas's Hospitals Student Life 2026: What Freshers Really Need to Know Before Starting University
Q1: What are the main campus sites and how do I travel between them?
UMDS GTSH is spread across Guy's Hospital, St Thomas' Hospital and the Dental Hospital. All sites are linked by the Northern and Jubilee Underground lines and several bus routes. An Oyster card gives unlimited travel within zones 1‑2, which is the most cost‑effective option for students.
Q2: How can I keep my living costs under control while studying in London?
Choose university halls for all‑inclusive pricing, use weekly grocery shops like Tesco Express, take advantage of student discounts at Borough Market, and cap your transport spend with an Oyster weekly travelcard. The budget table above outlines typical weekly costs to help you plan.