Medway Accommodation Arrivals

Medway accommodation arrivals

Your guide to arriving at Pier Quays. 

Need to arrive at the Canterbury campus? Visit our Canterbury arrivals page. 

Canterbury arrivals

Quick links

When should I arrive?

You should plan to arrive at the start of your accommodation contract, depending on your course:

  • Thursday 7 January 2027 – for students on an International Exchange Programme.
  • Saturday 9 January 2027 – for all other students.

Please check your accommodation contract to confirm your arrival date before booking your arrival slot.

As Pier Quays is managed by Unite Students you'll be asked to download the free My Unite app on your phone before you arrive. Through this app you will receive further information about how to collect your keys/fob from reception and unload your car.

Download the app
Unite Students
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Arrivals day

Arrivals Day is exciting but can feel overwhelming. Before you travel, check the steps below so you know what to expect. 

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Paperwork

To avoid delays, return all your signed guarantor forms with proof of address and two passport photos before you arrive.  

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First instalment

Don't forget you will also need to have paid your first rent instalment before any keys/fobs can be issued.  

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My Unite App

Download the My Unite App for further information on how to collect your keys/fob.

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Official ID

You'll need to show a valid ID, like your driving licence or passport, to pick up your keys or fob.  

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Head to your reception

You don't need your KentOne card (your student ID) to collect your keys. You can grab this after from the Medway Student Administration reception.

Unite Students

Pier Quays is managed by Unite Students. Their website includes lots of information on living in student accommodation (Help and Advice) to valuable tips and guidance in The Common Room.

To get started, be sure to download the MyUnite app. Through the app, you can book your arrival slot, report any maintenance issues in your room, and connect with your flatmates.

Contact Unite Students
Download the My Unite app
Unite Student interior

International Students

If you're an international student, you'll find everything you need to know about travelling to Medway, including guidance on planning your journey, arriving in the UK, and the support available to help you settle in during Arrivals.  

International students support

What to expect on arrival

Follow Amarachi and Sian around our stunning, riverside accommodation and find out what Pier Quays has to offer.

You can also find out more about arriving at Pier Quays and what you need to know about check-in on Unite Students' welcome page.    

Welcome to Pier Quays
A smiling woman in a University of Kent hoodie leans against a railing overlooking a sunny brick campus.

What's life like at Pier Quays?

This is just the start of an exciting journey! For many of you, living away from home for the first time means learning extends beyond the lecture hall.  

Be sure to check out our Living in University Accommodation page for everything you need to know about the facilities included in your accommodation.

On a personal note, remember to be kind, open, and friendly and you’ll be off to a great start! However if you ever need support, we’re here to help with a wide range of student support services. 

Living at Pier Quays
Pier Quays exterior

Useful Information

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When is Pier Quays reception open?

Reception is open Monday -Sunday from 07:00 to 22:00.
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Is there parking available?

Unfortunately, there is only limited parking available at Pier Quays meaning you will only be able to unload your vehicle and park on-site during your arrival slot period.
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Arriving late or outside reception hours?

If you expect to arrive outside normal hours, please contact Pier Quays in advance to ensure your keys are available to collect.
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Once you've arrived

Plan your journey and find out what to expect when you arrive at Pier Quays.
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Further questions?

Check our Accommodation FAQ page for further information or contact us.

A note from us

Welcome to Kent

We all know how quickly things change, and we update our web pages and social media regularly to contain all the latest information. If you have any questions not answered on our pages feel free to contact us via email or social media. We look forward to welcoming you to Kent very soon!
Unite Student Reception area

Get in touch

If you have any questions not answered on our pages feel free to check out our online FAQs, contact us via email or social media.

A student works on a laptop at a desk with a "Find Your Future" screen, notebooks, and a University of Kent cup.

Medway accommodation timeline

Find out more about the application process, our guaranteed offers and when you can expect a room offer.

A group of students smiles and talks while sitting at a long wooden table in a venue called "The Deep End."

Accommodation blog

From applying through to arriving find all you need to know about our accommodation at Kent.