Commuting to us

Discounted travel

Worried about the cost of travel? There’s help for that:

• Train travel: If you're eligible, a 16–25 Railcard can save you up to a third on rail fares. Season tickets are also available from National Rail, which usually work out more cost-effective than purchasing single journeys

• Bus travel: First Essex offers a special season ticket price for University of Essex students

Parking on campus

Commuting students are able park on campus. We have multiple car parks and facilities across our Colchester Campus. We also have charging points for electric vehicles. 

Once you've registered your car, you can can choose what works best for your schedule - either pay as you go for parking or purchase a termly permit. Find out more about parking on campus. 

Commuter facilities and resources

Our campuses have commuter-friendly spaces like lockers to store your stuff, commuter kitchens, and places to eat where you can grab a quick bite. There are also loads of quiet zones for study or downtime between lectures.

If you ever have any problems accessing academic support when not on campus or queries about your timetable, your department will be able offer advice and guidance.

And of course, there's all the wide range of online resources and support that you can access remotely - such as lecture recordings, library and study resources, as well as wellbeing support.

Everything’s set up to make your university life flexible and hassle-free. Find out more about how we support commuting students.

Short-stay accommodation

Need to stay on campus for an evening event or just want to crash for the night? We offer convenient short-stay accommodation options designed with commuters in mind - so you can join in without worrying about the trip home.

You won’t miss out

At Essex, commuting doesn’t mean compromising. You’ll still get the full uni experience - great teaching, loads of events, over 100 societies to join, and a friendly, inclusive community. Our Students' Union have a dedicated Commuters' Hub which provides all the low down on events, news and support for those travelling into uni. You’re part of life at Essex, no matter where you live.

Easy to get to. Easy to belong.

Loads of our students commute. You’re not on your own. You’ll find others who live locally, just like you. Whether you're chatting in a lecture, grabbing lunch, or joining a society - you’ll be part of something.