Each year, five students are elected to lead the Students' Union for a paid, full year.

Standing for election is a fantastic opportunity to make a real difference to the lives of your fellow students, help the Union and University meet the needs of the student body, meet people and gain transferable skills for life. There's not many students who can say they have been on the board of a million pound organisation before they've graduated, and this is your chance to be one!

If you want a gap year in your studies or are considering a graduate position – we could be the best place to start! There are a host of benefits to becoming a Sabbatical Officer, and plenty that will positively impact your future employability. Developing your leadership, communication, negotiation, and diplomacy skills will prove invaluable to your future careers, as well as life long friendships and a connection to Salford you’ll never forget.

Nominations for this amazing opportunity are now open and you can read  more about what it means, what you’ll do and how much you’ll earn at our full Elections portal.

In the meanwhile, here are few FAQs we get asked by potential candidates – read the full list through our portal.

REMEMBER: You've only got until midday on the 19th February to nominate yourself!

Who can stand?

Any current student studying at the University of Salford can stand for election. So whether you’re a full time, part time, postgraduate, mature, have a family, home or international student we can help you to ensure you can get the most out of your role and flexible working hours.

Students working towards a professional qualification in nursing/midwifery/social work are especially encouraged as we’ve never had someone from these studies win an office before - imagine what you could offer the Union if you became the first?!

If you choose to stand during your academic studies i.e. as a Sabbatical year between your first/second or second/third year, this will be classed as a year out, or an intercalating year, and will not impact upon your progression or qualification. You will return to your studies and complete as planned.

Isn't it just a popularity contest?

Well yes, that’s kind of the point of elections! Any election chooses the most popular person for the role, and students have the final say in who that is. You might not be ‘popular’ right now but you’ve got time before voting closes to make sure you’re well known! You’ll also have access to lots of information, training and support to ensure that you can run and get as many votes as possible.

How much time will it take?

We’re not going to lie, running in the election can be hard work. During voting week if you want to win, you’re going to have to put in some hard work. This doesn’t necessarily mean working ridiculous hours as there are many different ways to run an election campaign.

You should make sure you plan your time now and speak to your lecturers if you have any imminent deadlines to see if you can get any extensions.

Election timetable

Nominations open (stand for election): 9am Monday 8th February - 12 noon Friday 19th February
Candidates briefing: 3pm Friday 19th February - Boardroom 1, University House
Digital campaigning skills training: 11am Monday 22nd February - Activities Space, University House
Publicity materials deadline: 12 noon Wednesday 24th February
Face to face campaigning skills training: 2pm 29th February - Boardroom 1, University House
Candidates question time: 4pm Thursday 3rd March - Student Activities Space, University House
Voting Open: 9am Friday 4th March - 4pm Thursday 10th March
Results: 7pm - 10pm Thursday 10th March - Atmosphere Kitchen and Bar