What is an Academic Advisor?
An Academic Advisor is your first point of contact for most academic and some personal issues. They are a member of the University’s academic staff and are there to support you throughout your academic journey. Different departments and schools may use slightly different titles or have different arrangements for the role, so it is always worth checking. For more information about the role of an Academic Advisor, please visit Academic Advising webpage.
How do I know if I have an Academic Advisor?
You are usually assigned an Academic Advisor at the beginning of the academic year, whether you are studying at undergraduate or taught postgraduate level. If you are a research student, your supervisor will usually fulfil this role.
If you are unsure whether you have an Academic Advisor, or who they are, please contact the programme administrator for your course or your Director of Studies. It is always worth asking.
What other types of support are there at my university?
Academic Advisors are part of a wider student support system. Depending on your needs, there are many specialised services available to support you, including academic skills support, careers advice, language support, healthcare, mental health and wellbeing services, and financial advice. Further information about support is available at Student Support services.
The University of Bath is a university of sanctuary. Forcibly displaced students have a designated, named point of contact who can provide additional support. The Student Retention and Success team will usually contact you at the start of your course.
Many forcibly displaced students have highlighted the importance of having someone they trust at university. This could be your Academic Advisor, a member of the Student Retention and Success Team or another trusted member of staff. If you find someone you trust, you may wish to ask how best to stay in touch with them over the duration of your course.
What happens at the first meeting with an Academic Advisor?
At your first meeting, it is a good idea to clarify what you can expect from your Academic Advisor and what they can expect from you. You might discuss your transition into university, your academic progress, unit choices, placement opportunities, or future plans. Make sure you understand how to contact them and how their office hours work. You are not required to tell your Academic Advisor about your immigration status.
What can I discuss with my Academic Advisor?
Generally, if something happens in your life that affects your studies or makes it harder to attend lectures or complete assessments, it is a good idea to let your Academic Advisor know. They may not be able to resolve everything themselves, but they can help you identify the most appropriate support.
Examples of topics you might discuss include:
- applying for coursework deadline extensions, for example if you have Home Office appointments
- submitting an Individual Mitigating Circumstances (IMC) claim if temporary circumstances affect your ability to complete assessments
- accessing confidential disability support
- seeking Wellbeing and Mental Health Support
- developing academic skills such as time management, note‑taking, or research skills. You may be referred to academic skills sessions
- understanding feedback on assignments
- choosing units, discussing placements, extra‑curricular activities, or career pathways - accessing student support, money advice, wellbeing and mental health services, and careers support.
You can also contact the Student Support Advice Service if you need any further support.
Are my conversations with my Academic Advisor confidential?
Conversations with your Academic Advisor are generally confidential and will not be shared without your permission. This includes personal information you choose to disclose.
However, there are some circumstances where confidentiality may be broken, such as if there is a risk of harm to you or to others, or if this is required by University regulations. Your Academic Advisor should explain this to you if it becomes relevant.
You can always ask your Academic Advisor to explain how confidentiality works and what information they may be required to share before discussing something sensitive.
What if I feel I don’t have enough time with my Academic Advisor?
If you feel you need more time with your Academic Advisor, talk to them about this and explain why. Many Academic Advisors hold regular office hours where you may be able to drop in upon requesting them beforehand.
What if I want to change my Academic Advisor?
If you would like to change your Academic Advisor, you can discuss this with your Senior Academic Advisor, or with your Director of Studies. If you are unsure who your Director of Studies is, you can find them via the departmental listings. If you do not feel comfortable doing this, you can also seek advice from Student Support.
What if I want to talk to someone else who has been forcibly displaced?
The Student Retention and Success Team is the dedicated point of contact for forcibly displaced students. They can advise on available support and opportunities to connect with other students. You can contact them through emailing at studentsuccess@bath.ac.uk.
There is also a student‑led group, Bath STAR – Student Action for Refugees, which offers opportunities to meet students with similar interests and experiences.