IIT/NIT First Semester Survival Guide
Created by Cheli
Practical checklist covering hostel setup, academics, food, health, and daily survival for new students at Indian technical institutes.
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Checklist Items (32)
Pre-Arrival Preparation
Complete these tasks before reaching campus to avoid last-minute stress.
Verify admission documents
Carry original certificates, ID proof, caste certificate (if applicable), and medical reports. Make 2-3 photocopies of each.
Check hostel allotment
Visit institute website or contact senior students to know your hostel block, room number, and roommate details.
Download essential apps
Install institute-specific apps (if any), WhatsApp, Google Maps offline maps of campus, and UPI apps for payments.
Pack practical essentials
Bring bedsheet (single), pillow, lock with keys, basic toiletries, power strip, study lamp, and clothes for all seasons.
Hostel Room Setup
First week tasks to make your room livable and secure.
Claim and inspect room
Report to warden, get room keys, check for existing damage. Report any issues immediately to avoid later penalties.
Organize storage
Use under-bed space, stackable containers, and hooks. Maximize vertical space in small rooms.
Set up study corner
Position desk near power outlet, ensure adequate lighting. Keep study materials within arm's reach.
Academic Essentials
Get academic infrastructure ready in the first week.
Collect textbooks
Check library for issued books, buy essential ones from seniors or bookstore. Don't buy everything new.
Know your schedule
Get class timetable, note room numbers, understand attendance policy. Missing 75% can lead to debarment.
Set up study system
Create notes folder (physical or digital), get notebooks for each subject, set up productivity apps.
Understand evaluation pattern
Know weightage of midsem, endsem, quizzes, assignments, and lab work for each subject early.
Mess and Food Management
Navigate campus food systems efficiently.
Explore mess options
Visit all mess halls, check food quality, timing, and variety. Some hostels have multiple messes.
Get mess subscription
Complete mess registration and payment within first few days. Understand refund policy for absent days.
Find backup options
Identify nearby tiffin services, canteens, and restaurants for days when mess food is inedible.
Manage food expenses
Track mess bill, avoid excessive outside food. Rs 2000-3000/month is typical for mess plus extras.
Health and Wellness
Stay healthy despite irregular schedules and new environment.
Register at campus clinic
Complete medical registration, know clinic hours, and emergency contact numbers.
Get essential medicines
Stock basic meds: paracetamol, antacid, band-aids, ORS, and any personal prescriptions.
Establish sleep routine
Aim for 6-8 hours. Avoid all-nighters before exams—cramming is less effective than consistent study.
Find exercise option
Use campus gym, running track, or join sports activities. Physical activity reduces stress significantly.
Connectivity and Administration
Handle essential services and paperwork.
Get SIM card
Jio or Airtel have good campus coverage. Carry ID proof for new connection.
Set up bank account
Open account if needed, link with institute for stipend/scholarship. SBI usually has campus branch.
Complete institute registration
Submit all required forms, get student ID card, and register for library and internet access.
Get internet access
Most IITs/NITs provide campus WiFi. Register devices, note login credentials and fair usage limits.
Social Integration
Build relationships without compromising academics.
Meet your batchmates
Attend orientation, interact in hostel common areas. These people will be your network for 4 years.
Connect with seniors
Approach seniors for academic tips, book sharing, and project guidance. They were once in your position.
Join clubs wisely
Pick 1-2 clubs or committees that genuinely interest you. Don't overcommit—academics come first.
Manage homesickness
Call family regularly but not excessively. Stay busy with activities to adjust faster.
Money Management
Handle finances responsibly from day one.
Set monthly budget
Track expenses: mess, snacks, transport, stationery. Rs 5000-8000/month is reasonable for most campuses.
Use UPI payments
Most transactions (mess, shops, canteens) are digital. Ensure phone has sufficient balance.
Save emergency fund
Keep Rs 1000-2000 aside for unexpected expenses like medicine, repairs, or urgent travel.