KCLSU elections are coming up! Here's what you need to know

You've probably seen posters, emails, or Instagram posts about the KCLSU elections. Maybe you skimmed them. Maybe you overlooked them. And that’s perfectly understandable, as student elections can seem confusing or overly formal at first glance.

In reality, the KCLSU elections are one of the simplest ways students can have a say in how King’s can help to shape our student experience.

I'm Saswat, a Student Life Content Creator and MSc Clinical Psychotherapy student and like many others, most of my interaction with the Students’ Union started through societies and student groups. It was only later that I realised those experiences exist because students before us chose to get involved, run for positions, and represent their peers. The elections are how that cycle continues.

KCLSU (King’s College London Student Union) represents all students and supports the parts of university life that happen outside lectures and seminars. It runs societies and sports clubs, organises events, and works to make sure student voices are heard on issues like academic experience, wellbeing, and inclusion.

Even if you've never thought much about the Union itself, you’ve likely benefited from its work. From society events to student representation on courses, KCLSU plays a key behind the scenes role in shaping everyday student life.

The elections cover a wide range of roles, not just one type of position. Many students run for committee roles within societies, sports clubs, or student networks. These roles focus on organising events, supporting members, and helping groups grow.

There are also Union wide positions. Sabbatical officers work full time for a year, representing students at senior university meetings and leading campaigns on issues that matter most to the student body. Student trustees focus on the longer-term direction of the Union, helping ensure decisions are made in students’ best interests.

Nominations open from Monday 26 January and close on Monday 16 February. During this time, students can nominate themselves and write a short manifesto explaining what issues they care about and what they would like to change or improve. Election resources are available on the KCLSU website.

After nominations close, candidates campaign by sharing their ideas and speaking to students across King’s. Voting then opens to all students, and results are expected to be announced on Thursday 12 March. You can see the full timeline here.

It’s easy to see elections as something that happens in the background, but the people elected make decisions that affect societies, student support, and academic representation across the university.

For me, seeing how much impact student leaders can have makes the elections feel more relevant. Whether it’s improving a society experience, raising concerns about teaching, or making student spaces more inclusive, change often starts with students choosing to step forward.

Even if running for election is not for you, voting is still a meaningful way to take part. It’s how you help decide who represents you, what issues are prioritised and how to make the student experience even better.

Whether you want to stand as a candidate or simply vote, the KCLSU elections put students at the heart of shaping life at King’s while helping you build valuable skills for the future.

Keep an eye on your inbox and KCLSU Instagram for the latest info on the election timeline and voting information.