Prospective students applying to the University of Lincoln could start university life in serious style, thanks to a new competition offering a VIP Freshers Year complete with free waterfront accommodation, gym access, gig tickets and more.
The Amazing Lincoln: VIP Freshers Year giveaway was unveiled by housing expert and Omaze TV presenter Freya Melling, who recently explored the university’s award-winning city-centre campus in a fly-through tour shared across social media.
A once-in-a-lifetime student experience
One lucky applicant will win a full year of perks designed to showcase the very best of student life in Lincoln, including:
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A year of free accommodation in modern waterfront student halls
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Annual gym membership
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Complimentary gig tickets at Lincoln’s largest live music venue
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Restaurant and shopping vouchers
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Even a year of free laundry
The prize highlights what makes Lincoln stand out as a student destination, blending affordable living, modern facilities and a lively cultural scene.
Freya Melling tours Lincoln’s award-winning campus
During the fly-through tour, Freya Melling explored the university’s state-of-the-art library, waterfront bars, arts centre and bespoke student accommodation, all set against views of Lincoln’s historic skyline.
Best known for showcasing luxury property prize draws on Omaze, Melling said she was impressed by how much the city offers students — especially given that Lincoln has been officially recognised as the UK’s most affordable student city.
“Showcasing the University of Lincoln’s VIP experience has been my pleasure,” said Melling.
“The campus really is a student’s dream, with modern and light study spaces, buzzing bars and restaurants to hang with friends and stunning accommodation overlooking the city – what’s not to love?”
You can watch the full tour via the university’s official social channels: @unilincoln on Instagram and TikTok.
Why students are choosing Lincoln
While only one applicant will win the VIP Freshers Year, the University of Lincoln continues to attract students thanks to its Gold-rated teaching standards, affordable living costs and walkable campus lifestyle.
The university holds the highest ‘Gold’ rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework, with award-winning academics helping students make confident degree choices.
With modern yet affordable accommodation, waterfront cafés and cultural hotspots all within walking distance, it’s easy to see why Lincoln is growing in popularity.
Virtual tours helping students cut costs
New UCAS insights shared with the University of Lincoln reveal that 73% of prospective students are limiting the number of open days they attend due to cost.
The university’s fly-through tour offers a virtual alternative, giving applicants a clear snapshot of campus life without the expense of travel.
Ed Hughes, Chief Marketing Officer at the University of Lincoln, said:
“We’re immensely proud of our award-winning student experience, which offers our student community a vibrant environment to live, learn and socialise. For all those applying for a place at the University of Lincoln in 2026, I encourage you to apply to be in with a chance of winning an epic fresher’s year experience on us.”
How to enter the VIP Freshers Year competition
Prospective students applying for 2026 entry can enter the competition online.
Enter here: https://www.lincoln.ac.uk/amazinglincoln
Find out more about the University of Lincoln: https://www.lincoln.ac.uk
UCAS insights: https://www.ucas.com
Omaze: https://www.omaze.co.uk
