Have some questions? Take a look at some of our FAQs for some quick answers!

 

What roles are available?

The roles available for the 2025/26 UCASU Elections are:

  • President (Canterbury)
  • President (Epsom)
  • President (Farnham)

As well as part-time voluntary positions:

  • 3 x Campus Officer (Canterbury)
  • 3 x Campus Officer (Epsom)
  • 3 x Campus Officer (Farnham)

View the full job descriptions here.

 

 

Can I run for President as a First or Second year student?

Absolutely! If you elected, the University allows you to take a year out of your studies (a "sabbatical") to work full-time! Once you have reached the end of your term, you can then resume your studies. You are unable to study and work full-time as a Students' Union President.

 

 

Can I run for any position?

Nearly any position. Campus Officers must be continuing their studies on their relevant campus.

 

 

What experience do I need?

None. People from all different backgrounds and skillsets run in your Union elections. What matters most are your ideas for improving the student experience at UCA. Whatever role you’re interested in, you will get training and support from your Union and staff team who will help develop your ideas and get the most out of your elected year.

 

 

Isn't it just a 'popularity contest'?

No! Candidates sometimes feel like they don’t know enough people to run for election, but we work hard to give everybody an equal platform and ensure students hear about you and your ideas. You don’t have to be a big name on campus to win!

 

 

I want to run, but I don't know what to put on my manifesto?

Don’t worry! Concentrate on the issues that matter most to you. Chat to your current officers and Union staff to explore how you could build upon suggestions for your manifesto. We have information on our website and run activities throughout the nominations period where you can learn how best to present your ideas!

 

 

Can I run for election as an international student?

Yes! We encourage all student wanting to run in elections. Campus Officer is a voluntary role and does not require a visa extension or right to work check. The President positions are fixed-term paid positions outside of your studies, and you are able to work full-time.

 

 

What type of visa will I need as an international student running for UCASU President?

If you are nominating yourself for President we'll need to check your right to work in the UK before voting opens. For most international students studying on a student or Tier 4 visa you just need to tell us your share code and date of birth - you can find out more about that here. If your visa does not cover the full duration of your elected term, you may be able to apply for an extension.

If you have any questions about visas or working as a Sabbatical Officer, please contact ASK (Advice, Support & Knowledge) or elections.su@uca.ac.uk.

Alternatively, you can view UKCISA advice here.

 

 

Do I need to pay any fees or charges when extending my visa, if elected as UCASU President?

You must pay the full visa application fee and an immigration health surcharge (IHS) which is calculated by the Home Office. Your IHS must be paid for your visa application to be validated and progressed by the Home Office.

You may be entitled to a full or partial refund of your IHS if you meet the refund eligibility criteria. If you are eligible, your refund will be returned to your original payment method.

 

Can I run for UCASU President if my visa expires before the elections?

If your student visa expires before the UCASU Elections, you will not be able to extend your visa for the purpose of awaiting elections results. This means you will need to leave th UK before the expiry of your student visa.

 

 

What should I do if I am re-elected for a second term as UCASU President and my visa is due to expire?

If you are re-elected and your visa is due to expire, you will need to request a CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance of Studies) from the Campus Life team.