Student Societies and Clubs in Exeter: Your Complete 2025 Guide

Exeter offers top-ranked universities, a friendly student community, and a great quality of life. This makes students feel welcomed and supported even when they are studying far from their families. The University of Exeter is known for its excellent teaching, research, and it holds a strong employability rate. The city is safe and easy to navigate, with beautiful green spaces, historic charm, and a lively cultural landscape.Student accommodation in Exeteris designed to support a comfortable and enriching university experience. The city offers a wide variety of housing options to meet different needs. 

The Numbers That Matter

There are over 300 student societies and 52 sports clubs; you get endless ways to meet people, try new things, and build skills that'll help your career. Exeter’s student societies cover everything from academics to extreme sports. This helps in building friendships, career skills, and networking. University life in Exeter means way more than just lectures and assignments. 

Exeter Student Organisations Overview

Cost Reality Check

Students can check the pricing and plan their budget accordingly. This helps them manage the cost of living in Exeter, ensuring they stay financially prepared throughout their studies. 

Membership Fees:

• Academic societies: £5-£15
• Hobby/interest groups: £10-£25
• Sports clubs: £30-£200
• Social memberships: £15-£40

Additional Costs:

• Event tickets: £3-£15
• Kit/equipment: £20-£100
• Trips/activities: £10-£50
• Formal dinners: £25-£50

Most students budget around £50-£150 total for society memberships per year.

Types of Student Societies in Exeter

Academic and Course-Related Societies

These societies organise academic events, networking sessions, guest lectures, and workshops. This help students connect with peers in the same field. Many students take up part-time jobs in Exeter to gain experience and support their living expenses. The city offers flexible opportunities that balance work with academic life. 

Popular Academic Societies:

• English Society (networking + social events)
• Engineering Society (industry talks + socials)
• Medical Society (career support + fun activities)
• Business Society (networking + competitions)
• Psychology Society (research opportunities)

What They Do:

• Guest speaker events with industry professionals
• Study sessions and exam support
• Social events and pub nights
• Opportunities for building professional contacts

Cultural and International Societies

Cultural and international societies in Exeter allow students to build a sense of community. The societies actively celebrate different cultures, traditions, and languages through food festivals, dance nights, and cultural exchange events. Things to do in Exeter allow students to connect with local life, explore historic sites, and attend multicultural events.  

Major Cultural Groups:

• International Student Society
• Chinese Students and Scholars Association
• African Caribbean Society
• European Society
• Indian Society
• Malaysian Society

Benefits:

• Cultural celebration events
• Food festivals and cooking sessions
• Language exchange opportunities
• Support networks for international students
• Traditional dance and music groups

Creative and Performing Arts

Exeter's arts scene is genuinely brilliant. Creative and performing arts societies welcome students of all skill levels. As you get involved, you’ll also uncover some fun facts in Exeter, like its connection to famous authors and historic theatres.

Creative Societies Include:

• Drama Society (stage productions)
• Photography Society (exhibitions + workshops)
• Art Society (galleries + social painting)
• Music societies (orchestras, bands, choirs)
• Creative Writing Society (publications + workshops)
• Film Society (screenings + productions)

X-Media Network: This is Exeter's award-winning student media setup:

• Xpression FM: Student-run radio station
• Exeposé: Student newspaper
• XTV: Student television

Sports and Fitness Clubs

The Athletic Union runs 52 different sports clubs. For students, joining a sports club is a great way to relieve academic stress and stay balanced while enjoying campus life.

Popular Sports:

• Football (multiple teams)
• Rugby (men's and women's)
• Hockey
• Tennis
• Swimming
• Cricket

Unique Options:

• Surfing Club
• Quidditch Society
• Ultimate Frisbee
• Pole Fitness
• Cheerleading
• American Football

Competition Levels:

• BUCS (British Universities Championships)
• Recreational/social teams
• Beginner-friendly groups
• High-performance squads

Volunteering and Social Impact

Exeter students do loads of volunteering. It's brilliant for your CV and genuinely makes a difference.

Major Volunteering Groups:

• RAD Society (Raise and Donate) - coordinates major fundraising
• ESV Dog Walking - community dog walking
• Student volunteering projects - 18 different long-term projects
• Environmental Action Committee
• Nightline - confidential listening service

Recent Achievements:

• RAD Society raised £1200+ in 24-hour bikeathon
• Over 300 students are involved in regular volunteering
• Multiple charity partnerships

Special Interest and Hobby Groups

This is where Exeter gets weird and wonderful. Some of the most fun societies fall into this category.

Quirky Societies:

• Hide and Seek Society
• Chocolate Society
• Coffee Society
• Book Society
• Board Games Society
• Anime Society
• Gaming Society

Outdoor and Adventure:

• Hiking Society
• Climbing Club
• Sailing Club
• Ski Club
• Camping Society

Faith and Belief Communities

Exeter is home to a wide range of faith and belief communities that welcome students from all religious and non-religious backgrounds. Students can also refer to the city guide of Exeter to find nearby places of worship, meditation spaces, and events that support their spiritual and cultural needs.

Active Faith Groups:

• Christian Union
• Muslim Student Association
• Jewish Society
• Hindu Society
• Buddhist Society
• Humanist Society

How to Join Student Societies

Freshers' Week (The Main Event)

When: Saturday at the end of Freshers' Week 

Where: Forum and surrounding areas 

What to Expect:

• All societies have stalls with information
• Committee members answer questions
• Sign up and pay for membership on the spot
• Free taster sessions and activities
• Welcome parties throughout the week

Pro Tips:

• Bring cash and a card for memberships
• Don't feel pressured to join everything immediately
• Take contact details and think about it
• Ask about social vs full memberships
• Check social media for upcoming events

Joining Throughout the Year

You can join societies anytime, not just during Freshers' Week.

Online Registration:

• Visit exeterguild.com
• Browse the society directory
• Pay membership fees online
• Receive confirmation and event updates

Mid-Year Joining:

• Contact society directly via social media
• Attend events as a guest first
• Many societies offer reduced fees for second-term joiners

Creating Your Society

Can't find what you want? Start your own.

Requirements:

• Minimum 5 founding members
• Complete the registration form
• Propose a constitution and aims
• Find a faculty advisor
• Submit to the Students' Guild

Support Available:

• Training for committee members
• Funding and grant opportunities
• Marketing and promotion help
• Event planning support

Financial Support and Accessibility

Hardship Fund

Money shouldn't stop you from joining societies. The Societies and Clubs Hardship Fund helps students who need financial support.

What It Covers:

• Society membership fees
• Equipment and kit costs
• Event and trip expenses
• Sports club fees

How to Apply:

• Complete online application
• Provide financial information
• Explain which societies you want to join
• Quick turnaround for decisions

Hidden Costs to Consider

Beyond Membership Fees:

• Social events (usually optional)
• Equipment for sports clubs
• Formal wear for dinners
• Travel for competitions/trips
• Training courses and workshops

Money-Saving Tips:

• Look for a second-hand kit
• Share equipment with friends
• Attend free events first
• Consider social-only memberships
• Apply for hardship funding early

Career and Employability Benefits

Societies aren't just for fun. They're serious career boosters.

Skills You'll Develop

Leadership Skills:

• Committee positions are available in all societies
• Event planning and management
• Budget management and fundraising
• Team leadership and motivation

Professional Skills:

• Public speaking and presentation
• Project management
• Marketing and social media
• Communication and networking

Industry-Specific Skills:

• Media production (X-Media)
• Event management (social societies)
• Financial management (treasurer roles)
• Marketing and PR (publicity roles)

Networking Opportunities

Alumni Connections:

• Many societies have active alumni networks
• Industry professionals attend events
• Mentorship opportunities available
• Graduate job referrals

Peer Networks:

• Students from different years and courses
• International connections
• Cross-society collaborations
• Long-term friendships

CV Enhancement

What Employers Value:

• Demonstrable commitment and enthusiasm
• Leadership experience in committee roles
• Evidence of teamwork and collaboration
• Volunteering and community involvement
• Skills relevant to your career goals

Social Life and Community Building

Making Friends

Student societies help in building lasting friendships and provide emotional support, boost confidence, and lead to lifelong personal and professional connections. When you're not at a society event, you can explore some of the top restaurants in Exeter, perfect for birthday celebrations, or just unwinding with friends.

The city also boasts a lively nightlife scene, with student-friendly bars, popular clubs, live music venues, and themed nights happening throughout the week. It helps in making the clubs and nightlife in Exeter a major highlight of student life.

Why Societies Work for Friendships:

• Shared interests create natural bonds
• Regular meetups and events
• Supportive, welcoming environments
• Mix of academic years
• International diversity

Types of Social Events:

• Welcome drinks and socials
• Pub nights and informal gatherings
• Formal dinners and balls
• Day trips and weekend activities
• Collaborative events between societies

Integration for International Students

Special Support:

• International Student Society welcomes newcomers
• Cultural societies provide familiar environments
• Buddy systems for new arrivals
• Help with UK culture and customs

Benefits for Integration:

• British students keen to make international friends
• Learn about different cultures
• Language practice opportunities
• Support network away from home

Accommodation Connections

Living in student accommodation helps students connect easily. Many of the best properties in Exeter are located near campus, making it simple to join societies and attend social activities. For those on a budget, there are many affordable properties in Exeter that offer comfort without compromising convenience. Alternatively, luxury properties in Exeter provide premium amenities and stylish living spaces for a more upscale student experience.

Halls of Residence Benefits:

• Meet flatmates with similar interests
• Group society memberships
• Shared transport to events
• Social pressure (in a good way) to get involved

Off-Campus Living:

• Societies help you stay connected to campus life
• Meet people beyond your immediate area
• Access to university facilities and events

Academic Year Timeline

Semester 1 (September-December)

September - Freshers' Week:

• Society fair and registrations
• Welcome events and taster sessions
• Committee elections for some societies

October-November:

• Regular society activities begin
• Major events and competitions
• New member inductions

December:

• End of term socials
• Christmas events and parties

Semester 2 (January-May)

January:

• New member recruitment
• Second chance for joining societies
• Spring term activities restart

February-April:

• Peak activity period
• Major competitions and events
• Leadership elections

May:

• End of year celebrations
• Annual general meetings
• Handover to new committees

Summer Activities

Many societies continue during the summer:

• Sports clubs training
• International trips and exchanges
• Summer schools and workshops
• Planning for the next academic year

Location and Campus Life

Streatham Campus

Most societies are based on the main Streatham campus.

Key Venues:

• Forum (central hub for meetings)
• Students' Guild building
• Sports facilities
• Performance spaces

St Luke's Campus

Smaller campus with dedicated societies:

• Education-focused groups
• Professional development societies
• Community outreach projects

Penryn Campus (Cornwall)

Over 120 societies specifically for Penryn students:

• Environmental and marine focus
• Close-knit community feel
• Unique outdoor activity options

Diversity and Inclusion

Inclusive Policies

Students' Guild Commitment:

• Welcoming environment for all backgrounds
• Anti-discrimination policies
• Accessibility support
• Financial assistance available

Diverse Leadership:

• Committee positions are open to all
• Training on inclusive leadership
• Support for underrepresented groups

Support Networks

Dedicated Societies:

• LGBTQ+ groups and allies
• Disability support networks
• Mental health awareness societies
• Women's groups and feminist societies

Technology and Digital Engagement

Online Platforms

Guild Website Features:

• Society directory and search
• Event calendar and bookings
• Membership management
• Payment processing

Social Media Presence:

• Most societies are active on Instagram and Facebook
• Regular updates and event promotion
• Behind-the-scenes content
• Member spotlights and achievements

Virtual Activities

Hybrid Events:

• Online meetings for accessibility
• Live-streamed performances
• Virtual networking sessions
• Digital skill workshops

Common Concerns and Solutions

"I'm Too Shy to Join"

Reality Check:

• Everyone's nervous at first
• Societies actively welcome new members
• No pressure to participate immediately
• Start with larger, more casual events

Practical Solutions:

• Attend events with flatmates or coursemates
• Message societies on social media first
• Go to taster sessions before committing
• Start with academic societies related to your course

"I Don't Have Time"

Balancing Act:

• Many societies meet weekly or fortnightly
• Choose the involvement level that suits you
• Societies understand academic priorities
• Can reduce commitment during exam periods

Time Management Benefits:

• Social activities improve mental health
• Break from academic stress
• Networking saves time on job hunting later
• Skills gained improve academic efficiency

"I Can't Afford Multiple Memberships"

Budget Solutions:

• Prioritise 1-2 societies initially
• Look for free trial periods
• Apply for hardship funding
• Consider social-only memberships

Value for Money:

• Events are often free for members
• Skills training included
• Career networking invaluable
• Social activities replace expensive nights out

Tips for Maximum Benefit

Getting Involved Strategically

First Year:

• Join 2-3 societies maximum
• Mix academic and social interests
• Attend regularly to build relationships
• Consider small leadership roles

Second Year:

• Take on committee positions
• Expand involvement selectively
• Focus on career-relevant societies
• Network with industry professionals

Final Year:

• Leadership roles look great on a CV
• Use networks for graduate job hunting
• Give back to societies that helped you
• Maintain connections for the future

Making the Most of Events

Before Events:

• Check society's social media for updates
• Bring friends, but be open to meeting new people
• Don't drink too much at social events
• Exchange contact details with interesting people

During Events:

• Ask questions and show genuine interest
• Volunteer to help with the organisation
• Suggest ideas for future activities
• Be inclusive of newcomers

After Events:

• Follow up with new connections
• Share positive feedback
• Offer to help with future events
• Stay engaged between meetings

Future Planning and Graduation

Building Long-term Networks

Alumni Connections:

• Many societies have active alumni groups
• Professional networking events
• Mentorship opportunities
• Job referral systems

International Networks:

• Connections with exchange students
• Global professional networks
• International career opportunities

Giving Back

Supporting Future Students:

• Mentor newer society members
• Share career advice and opportunities
• Attend alumni events
• Provide guest speaker opportunities

Practical Next Steps

Before You Arrive

Research Phase:

• Browse the Guild website's society directory
• Follow interesting societies on social media
• Contact current members with questions
• Plan a budget for membership fees

First Week Actions

Priority Tasks:

• Attend Freshers' Fair
• Sign up for 2-3 societies initially
• Get contact details for societies you're unsure about
• Attend welcome events

Ongoing Engagement

Semester Plan:

• Regular attendance at chosen societies
• Volunteer for small tasks
• Consider running for committee positions
• Evaluate and adjust involvement

Final Thoughts

Student societies in Exeter offer way more than just something to do in your spare time. They're where you'll make your best friends, develop career-crucial skills, and create memories that last way beyond graduation. The variety is genuinely incredible – from the Hide and Seek Society to serious academic groups. Whatever you're into, there's probably a society for it. And if there isn't, you can start one.

Don't stress about picking the "right" societies immediately. Try different things, meet different people, and see what clicks. Most students end up surprised by which societies they enjoy. The investment in time and membership fees pays off massively. The skills, networks, and experiences you gain will help throughout your career. Plus, you'll have way more fun at university. Exeter's student societies are honestly one of the best parts of studying there. Don't miss out.

To get a fuller picture of what student life is like, check out the pros and cons of living in Exeter. It’s a great way to set your expectations before you arrive.