How free student membership works for you

Find out more about how an RCSLT Student membership is your foundation for success

 

Back to the Student Hub

Meeting You Where You Are

 At times (the course) is challenging and rewarding, but you can absolutely get through it with the support of the RCSLT. RCSLT student membership – Fatimah Bint-Hanif

Whether you’re navigating your first year, preparing for placements, or approaching qualification, RCSLT membership provides the support you need right now, while building skills that will serve you throughout your career. 

The challenges are real: imposter syndrome, placement nerves, understanding complex clinical concepts, and wondering how you’ll transition from student to confident practitioner.  RCSLT membership addresses each of these with practical, accessible resources. 

 

Your speech and language therapy support system, from student to professional 

RCSLT student membership isn’t just about getting through your degree—it’s your first investment in a lifelong professional partnership. The knowledge and skills you develop through student resources today become the evidence-based practice expertise that sets you apart tomorrow. 

 

Community connection 

You’re part of something bigger. RCSLT membership connects you to a nationwide community of students, newly qualified practitioners, and experienced SLTs who understand your journey. 

  • Regional activities and hubs help you meet peers in your area 
  • Clinical Excellence Networks connect you with specialists in areas that interest you 
  • Student-to-NQP events bridge the gap between study and practice 
  • Bulletin magazine keeps you informed about the latest developments in the profession 

Professional development that grows with you 

The resources you access as a student form the building blocks of your professional practice: 

  • Access to over 1,700 curated journal titles supports your essays now and your evidence-based practice later 
  • Professional Development framework and CPD diary help you track your learning from day one 
  • Events and webinars on best practice keep you current—from student study days to flagship conferences 

What starts as assignment research becomes the critical thinking skills that make you an excellent clinician. The CPD habits you build now will support your entire career. 

Practical support when you need it

 

RCSLT membership provides the practical resources that help you navigate both study and professional life: 

  • Professional advice telephone support answers your questions about practice, placements, and career planning 
  • Nation-specific guidance for England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland means you get relevant information for your local context 
  • HCPC registration preparation support smooths your transition to qualified status 
  • Professional Indemnity Insurance coverage once qualified, allowing you to practise with confidence 

Advocacy and voice 

RCSLT speaks on behalf of the profession, influencing governments and institutions at a national level. As a student member, you’re part of a professional body that: 

  • Campaigns to raise the profile of speech and language therapy 
  • Builds partnerships with peer organisations and charities 
  • Represents your interests in policy developments 
  • Ensures the public understands the vital work SLTs do 

The University perspective 

Course leaders across the UK recognise the value of RCSLT student membership as an extension of their educational mission. 

Whether you’re studying in Manchester, training in Edinburgh, on placement with the NHS in Wales, or at university anywhere across the four UK nations, RCSLT provides the support that complements your course and prepares you for professional life. 

How RCSLT evolves with you, from student to professional

 

Your journey, supported every step by RCSLT: 

  • Year 1: Access study resources, connect with peers, attend your first student events 
  • Years 2-3: Utilise placement support, engage with Clinical Excellence Networks, develop your specialism interests 
  • Final Year: Prepare for HCPC registration, attend careers events, access job application support 
  • Newly Qualified: Continue your membership with targeted NQP resources, mentorship, and career development 
  • Throughout Your Career: Ongoing CPD, networking, professional support, and advocacy 

The moment you start your degree you become a member and representative of the profession. The RCSLT is here to support you in your career journey from that point onwards, helping you to take your career in whatever direction is right for you. Membership gives you lots of opportunities for development: not only access to professional development resources, guidance and networks but also to get involved and help set our direction, which in turn builds your skills. Here’s to your exciting future!  Vicky Harris – Head of Learning, RCSLT

Start your journey with RCSLT

 

RCSLT student membership is free for the entire duration of your degree. It’s professional development worth hundreds of pounds per year, at no cost to you during your studies. 

Join now to invest in your future self. The support you access today lays the foundation for the confident, competent, well-connected professional you’ll become. 

Starting your SLT degree is the beginning of an incredible career journey. RCSLT membership ensures you never have to take that journey alone. 

Ready to start? Join RCSLT student membership for free today and access your professional foundation from day one. 

Get free student membership today

 

 

 

Related content

Student Hub

Want to explore first? Take a look inside the Student Hub to see what’s available 

Membership

Learn more about RCSLT membership

Information for education providers

Involved in teaching the next generation of SLTs? Find out how RCSLT supports your work