Mastering Your Kingston University Open Day: The Ultimate Guide
Everything you need to know to make the most of your Kingston University open day, from campus tours to essential questions.
Updated 4 min readKingston University
Introduction to Your Kingston University Journey
Choosing where to study for the next three or four years is one of the most pivotal decisions you will make. For prospective undergraduates eyeing creative industries, business, healthcare, and science, Kingston University offers an exceptional blend of academic rigor and vibrant London-adjacent student life. Attending a Kingston University open day is your absolute best opportunity to step onto the grounds, feel the atmosphere, and decide if this dynamic institution feels like home.
With multiple campuses scattered across Kingston upon Thames—each catering to specific faculties—navigating your visit requires a bit of strategy. Whether you are coming for a traditional in-person campus visit or exploring a virtual tour beforehand, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know to maximize your experience.
Why Attending a Kingston University Open Day Matters
Browsing a prospectus or scrolling through a website can only tell you so much. A prospective student event brings the university to life in ways a screen simply cannot replicate. You get to speak directly with the academics who write the modules, inspect the industry-standard facilities—such as the award-winning Town House building—and chat with current undergraduates about the reality of student life.
"Walking into the Town House library during my Kingston University open day completely sold me. The open-plan layout, the study spaces, and the view of the river made me realize this was where I wanted to study." - Chloe, Graphic Design StudentNavigating the Different Campuses
Kingston University is not confined to a single monolithic site. Instead, it operates across four distinct campuses, meaning you need to double-check which site hosts your specific course before you book your open day dates.
- Penrhyn Road: The main campus, home to science, engineering, computing, health, and social care. Features the landmark Town House building.
- Knights Park: Located by the Hogsmill River, this is the creative hub for art, design, architecture, and music.
- Kingston Hill: Set in a leafy, self-contained woodland area, hosting business, law, education, and music sound recording.
- St George's, University of London: Shared with Kingston for specific healthcare and midwifery programmes.
Campus Visit Checklist
- Check your course faculty and verify which campus you need to visit.
- Pre-book your arrival slot online to secure your place.
- Download the campus map or the official Kingston University app.
- Plan your travel route—consider trains into Kingston station and local bus connections.
What to Expect During Your Visit
A typical Kingston University open day is structured to give you a complete overview of academic and social life. Here is what your itinerary will likely include:
- Subject Presentations: Detailed talks covering course structures, entry requirements, placement years, and career prospects.
- Campus and Accommodation Tours: Guided walks led by student ambassadors who can give you the unfiltered truth about halls of residence and local renting.
- Student Services Fair: Stalls dedicated to student finance, disability support, study abroad opportunities, and the Union of Kingston Students (UKS).
- Q&A Sessions: Dedicated panels where you can ask anything about student life, budgeting, and living in south-west London.
Essential Questions to Ask on the Day
Don't let the excitement of the day make you forget to gather crucial information. Use this checklist of smart questions to ask academic staff and student ambassadors:
Top Questions for Academics and Students
- How many contact hours (lectures, seminars, practicals) will I have per week?
- What percentage of the course is assessed via coursework versus traditional exams?
- What kind of support is available for securing placement years or internships?
- How accessible are the lecturers outside of timetabled classes?
- What are the typical living costs for student accommodation in Kingston compared to central London?
Planning Your Budget and Travel
Visiting Kingston involves practical planning. Situated in Zone 6, Kingston upon Thames offers a slightly greener, more relaxed vibe than central London, but it still requires careful budgeting for prospective students.
| Expense Category | Estimated Cost (In-Person Visit) | Monthly Student Budget (Average) |
|---|---|---|
| Train/Travel to Kingston | £15 - £45 (depending on distance) | N/A |
| Lunch & Refreshments | £8 - £15 | N/A |
| Halls of Residence | N/A | £650 - £900 per month |
| Groceries & Living | N/A | £250 - £350 per month |
Can't Make It? Exploring the Virtual Tour Option
If scheduling conflicts or distance prevent you from attending an in-person event, Kingston University offers an immersive virtual tour. While it doesn't replace the tangible experience of talking to staff face-to-face, it allows you to explore 360-degree views of lecture theatres, the Town House, art studios, and sample student bedrooms from the comfort of your couch. Make sure to pair the virtual tour with live online Q&A sessions hosted by admissions teams.
Conclusion
Your journey to higher education starts with taking that first step onto campus. A well-prepared visit to a Kingston University open day will give you the clarity, confidence, and insider knowledge needed to make the right choice for your future. Book your dates, prepare your questions, and get ready to experience everything Kingston has to offer!